CONCLUSION--STRANGE CIRCUMSTANCE--WE BRING GLAD TIDINGS--ARE
HOSPITABLY TREATED--THE END.
As a conclusion to the foregoing imperfect sketches, we will briefly
narrate an incident which happened after our arrival within the lines.
On March 23d, at Camp Reynolds, while we were writing letters home, a
soldier named Gasper came into the quarters where we were. As soon as
we were at leisure he asked,
"Are you the boys that came in from prison two days ago?"
One of our party answered we were. Gasper then said he had just been
writing a letter to an old friend in Cincinnati, whose son was supposed
to have been killed at Chickamauga, and hearing we had been captured in
that battle, he thought he would inquire if we knew any person among
the prisoners named Jack Phillips.
"Jack Phillips," repeated Smith, "certainly, I know him."
"Is it possible!" said Gasper.
"He was in the same prison with me, and in the same mess," said Smith.
"He lived in Cincinnati, did he, and belonged to Company ----
---- Regiment, Ohio Volunteers?" asked Gasper. (I have forgotten the
Company and Regiment to which Phillips belonged.)
"Yes, sir," said Smith, "we are talking of the same Jack Phillips."
Smith went on, and described Phillips as to size, height, appearance,
and general characteristics.
"Same fellow," said Gasper, "but his captain reports seeing him fall in
battle."
"No doubt of that," said Smith, "I have heard Jack tell how he was
stunned by a ball grazing his forehead, cutting the skin, and leaving a
small scar after healing."
"The captain said Jack's forehead was bleeding when he saw him fall,"
remarked Gasper.
Gasper concluded Smith's former fellow-prisoner and messmate was the
son of John Phillips, of Cincinnati, to whom he was just writing, and
said he would finish his letter by giving the old man the information
Smith had furnished concerning his son. Gasper then left us, but
returned in the course of an hour, saying he had not yet mailed his
letter. He wished us to promise to call on Mr. Phillips if we passed
through Cincinnati. We told him we did not know that Cincinnati would
lie in our route, but should we get there, in our travels, we would
call on Mr. Phillips if he would give us some clew as to where we
might find him. Gasper did not know the street on which Mr. Phillips
did business, but thought it was somewhere near the Public Landing. He
had also forgotten the street on which Mr. Phillips's residence was
situated. We, however, promised Gasper to inquire for Mr. Phillips
if we visited Cincinnati, and if we happened to learn either his
residence or place of business, to call on him and corroborate the
statements made in the letter to him. On leaving us Gasper said he
would put in a postscript, telling Mr. Phillips of us, and of our
promise to inquire for him if we visited Cincinnati. Gasper was seen
no more by us, and we gave but little thought to the errand with which
he had charged us, as we had no idea what route we should take in
rejoining our commands.
It was the 30th of March, after we had dressed ourselves anew,
when Smith came to me in Lytle Barracks, saying, "Where's Wood and
Sutherland?"
"Gone to the city," I answered.
Smith then said, "Suppose we go into the city, look around, and make a
few inquiries for the old man Phillips."
"Agreed," said I; "there is one chance in a thousand that we may find
him."
We then went into the city, passing up one street and down another.
Wherever sight or curiosity led us we went. We had wandered over the
city, or a great portion of it, going into many shops and stores, with
scarcely a thought of Phillips; but at length we came to a corner from
which the river and many steam-boats lying at the wharves could be
seen. Smith stood still until I came up, when he said, "Here is the
Public Landing."
"It looks much like it," I replied.
Smith then asked, "Didn't that man at Camp Reynolds say that Phillips
did business near the Public Landing?"
"I believe he did," said I, after reflecting. "Suppose we go in here
and inquire for him."
We stepped in at the first door. It was a confectioner's establishment,
and there were several men in the room. We looked into the show-cases
and at other objects of interest, when presently all left the room
except one elderly looking man and ourselves. Just as the old man was
filling the stove with coal I approached him and asked, "Is there a
person doing business anywhere in this part of the city named John
Phillips?" As the old man set his coal bucket down he said, "My name
is John Phillips." It was the first inquiry we had made and would
have been the last, as we were anxious to get back to the barracks for
dinner. After our surprise had subsided somewhat the old gentleman
wished to know what we wanted. We told him of our promise to a man at
Camp Reynolds, Virginia, and asked if he had received a letter from a
man by the name of Gasper. He answered that he had not. After telling
him we had been prisoners of war, and had come into the lines at Gauley
Bridge about a week before, Smith went on to tell him all he knew about
"Jack Phillips" as a prisoner at Danville, Virginia.
On hearing Smith's account of Jack, the old gentleman, bursting into
tears, said he had long since given his son up as dead, and could
hardly hope or believe he was yet alive; at least he should not tell
the news to his family, for fear the man we spoke of might be another
of the same name. Smith thought there could be no mistake, as it would
not be likely to happen that two of the same name should enlist in the
same regiment from the same city. "Strange things sometimes happen in
this world," observed Mr. Phillips. The old gentleman wished us to
eat some cakes and pies and drink some wine, of which there seemed to
be an abundance in the room. We consented, as it was noon, and would
save us a walk to the barracks for dinner. Just as we had finished
eating, a man entered the room holding several letters in his hand, two
of which he handed to Mr. Phillips. On opening the first letter Mr.
Phillips found it to be the one Gasper had written at Camp Reynolds,
Virginia. The coincidence caused Mr. Phillips to conclude his son must
yet be alive, and he determined to acquaint his family with the news
he had received. The letter coming to hand, telling about us, while we
were present to answer for ourselves, and our addressing our first,
last, and only inquiry for Mr. Phillips to Mr. Phillips himself, in a
great city, where there were thousands of people, seemed strange, and
forbade the suspicion that our report was untrue. Mr. Phillips invited
us to call on him each day during our stay in the city. We called on
him the next day, March 31st, which was our last day in Cincinnati. I
have since learned--though indirectly--that "Jack" afterward died as a
prisoner, either at Danville, Virginia, or Andersonville, Georgia.
Historical Memoranda.
COMPANY "C," 73D REGIMENT ILLINOIS INFANTRY VOLUNTEERS.
BY W. H. NEWLIN.
Enlistments in the company dated from July 12, 1862, to April 11, 1864.
One hundred and four names appear on the company roll. All members
who enlisted on or before July 23, 1862, were sworn in, the first
time, by John Newlin, J. P., in West's pasture, village of Georgetown,
Vermillion County, Ill. On the same day, July 23d, Patterson McNutt,
Mark D. Hawes, and Richard N. Davies, were elected captain, first and
second lieutenants respectively.
July 24th, company transported in wagons from Georgetown to the "Y," a
point on the T. W. & W. R. R., near the site of Tilton. Taking the cars
at the "Y," company reached Camp Butler early next morning.
By August 1st company organization was completed, by appointment of
the following named as sergeants: Tilmon D. Kyger, first sergeant; Wm.
R. Lawrence, second sergeant; David A. Smith, third sergeant; Wm. H.
Newlin, fourth sergeant; Robert B. Drake, fifth sergeant; and by the
following named as corporals, in their order: David McDonald, John
W. Smith, Carey A. Savage, Wm. M. Sheets, Samuel W. Sigler, Wm. O.
Underwood, John V. Don Carlos, William Henderson. Pleasant B. Huffman,
fifer; William B. Cowan, drummer; and Amacy M. Hasty, teamster.
Time, at Camp Butler, was spent in drilling, guarding prisoners,
and other duty. Some pay and an installment of bounty was received
by each member of the company. Twenty-five dollars bounty was paid
by Vermillion County to each married man and ten dollars to each
unmarried man. To hasten the muster in of regiment, Company C loaned
to Company E--also enlisted in Vermillion County--fourteen men, all
but three of whom were re-transferred to C. Regiment was mustered into
United States service August 21, 1862.
August 24th, left camp Butler, going by rail via Danville, Ill.,
Lafayette Junction, Indianapolis, and Seymour, Ind., to Louisville, Ky.
Went into quarters at Camp Jaquess--named for our colonel--south-west
of the city. At this camp some guard duty was done, without arms, other
than clubs and revolvers; all the clubs and nearly all the revolvers
being soon discarded.
About August 30th regiment was supplied with muskets--Austrian or
Belgium pattern--and ammunition for same. Muskets were of the _kicking_
kind. From July 24th company had been in receipt of government rations,
and was becoming inured to service in this respect.
September 1st or 2d moved to Camp Yates, three or four miles south-east
of the city. Other regiments were at this camp, and a Division was
formed, the Seventy-third and One Hundreth Illinois, and Seventy-ninth
and Eighty-eighth Indiana Regiments making one brigade, commanded by
Colonel Kirk. Lieutenant Hawes and Sergeant Lawrence were detailed for
duty at Kirk's head-quarters, and a very _ludicrous_ mistake was made,
in _supposing_ there were two vacancies created. Accordingly there was
an advance along the line; Davies being promoted first lieutenant,
as was thought; Orderly Kyger to second lieutenant; D. A. Smith to
orderly, and Corporal John W. Smith to second sergeant, the latter
being promoted over the writer. The joke fell heaviest on Kyger, as he
incurred the expense of the purchase of sword, belt and straps. J. W.
Smith resumed his place as corporal, much to the gratification of the
writer, who did not like the idea of being "jumped."
Before the middle of September an inspection was ordered, requiring the
command to march to Louisville, taking all luggage, accompanied also by
wagon-train. The number and variety of articles thrown out of knapsacks
and train was _amazing_ to the _old_ soldiers. This inspection was for
the purpose of reducing luggage and baggage to articles of necessity.
Directly after this the defeat of Union forces at Richmond, Ky.,
occurred. A rapid advance of a day's march was made by the command
to assist in covering the retreat of those forces. Following this
defeat came the invasion by Kirby Smith's Confederate forces, menacing
Cincinnati and Covington. To meet this emergency the command was
ordered at once to the latter place, going via Jeffersonville and
Seymour, Ind., and Cincinnati, Ohio. The marching of the Seventy-third
in the streets of Cincinnati excited comment, and inquiry was made if
it was an old regiment. There was a fine engraving produced about this
time representing the regiment, marching in column, on to the pontoon
bridge.
Fears of invasion subsiding, the command was ordered back to
Louisville, returning via Indianapolis. Buell's army having reached
Louisville, a general reorganization of all forces--old and new--took
place. The Forty-fourth and Seventy-third Illinois, and Second and
Fifteenth Missouri Regiments formed the Thirty-fifth Brigade, Eleventh
Division of reorganized army.
Bragg's army, which had followed Buell's into Kentucky, was gathering
much strength and material in its march in the interior, and on October
1st the Union army was put in motion and started in pursuit. A dozen or
more members of the company were left sick at Louisville. Army caught
up with the enemy October 8th. Regiment was placed in and withdrawn
from an exposed position, just in the "nick of time," a position within
easy range of Confederate battery. Being withdrawn, as above, and
resuming position in main line, regiment was actively engaged in battle
of Perryville, nearly two hours, the casualties to Company C being as
follows:
Josiah Cooper, wounded, Died Oct. 31, 1862.
Samuel Boen, wounded,
David W. Doop, wounded, Discharged Feb. 9, 1863.
John S. Long, wounded, Discharged Jan. 13, 1863, died.
Francis M. Stevens, wounded, Discharged Dec. 5, 1862.
Zimri Thornton, wounded, Died Oct. 30, 1862.
James E. Moore, wounded, Discharged March 17, 1863, lost foot.
John Murdock, Co. E, wounded, Died, Oct. 9, 1862.
The last named enlisted in C, but had been one of the fourteen men
"loaned," as before mentioned. Several members of Company C, who had
been left at Louisville, came up Oct. 9th and 10th.
Followed to Crab Orchard, marching from there, via Danville, Lebanon,
Bowling Green, and Mitchellsville, to Nashville, Tenn. At Bowling
Green, Rosecrans relieved Buell. Arrived at Nashville Nov. 7, 1862,
encamping first at Edgefield, then at Mill Creek. Nov. 20, 1862, Second
Lieutenant Richard N. Davies, resigned. Nov. 28th, First Lieutenant
Mark D. Hawes resigned. These resignations, the losses resulting from
the action at Perryville, the loss by death of the following named
members: Samuel W. Blackburn, John C. Sheets, Thomas Millholland,
Israel H. Morgan, John and Alex. Gerrard, and William Henderson; and
the following named discharged for disability: Thos. T. Ashmore, John
Trimble, and Wm. O. Underwood, discharged, Oct. 9, 1862, made a total
loss to company by Jan. 1, 1863, of eighteen men. Three of these, viz:
David W. Doop, John S. Long, and James E. Moore, were discharged after
Jan. 1st, on Feb. 9th, Jan. 13th, and March 17th, 1863, respectively.
Nov. 25, 1862, Kyger was mustered in as first lieutenant, and Dec. 6,
1862, Lawrence was mustered in as second lieutenant.
Dec. 26, 1862, started on movement to Stone River. Regiment not
engaged until Dec. 31st, was then engaged fully one-third, and under
fire two-thirds of the day. Seventy-third was in Second Brigade, of
Sheridan's (Third) Division, Twentieth A. C., and associated with the
same regiments as before. The change in number of Brigade and Division
occurred when Rosecrans assumed command. At Stone River Company C
suffered casualties as follows: John Dye and James Yoho, killed; John
J. Halsted, wounded, discharged Feb. 23, 1863; three or four others
very slightly wounded, and Lieutenant Lawrence and Daniel Suycott,
captured. Lawrence and Suycott were exchanged in the following Spring,
returning to the Company in May. About Jan. 7, 1863, a detail from
company, Lieutenant Kyger in charge, sought the bodies of Dye and Yoho
and buried them. The writer saw both these men expire; they were near
together, and died at about the same time.[A]
[A] NOTE.--The latter part of January, or early in February, the
company, in pursuance of general orders from Rosecrans, chose a man
whose name should be inscribed on a "roll of honor." Through some
unaccountable circumstance, or accident, or perhaps through compromise,
the choice fell on the writer hereof. Though conscious of having tried
to do my duty at Stone River, I knew this honor was undeserved; that
there were others more entitled to it. As the honor was bestowed by
comrades who had passed with me through the smoke and fire of that
eventful day I will cherish it to my dying hour as a precious legacy,
one that I would proudly transmit to my children if possible. Having
mentioned the foregoing, I must not fail to record another scrap of
history equally important in its outcome, as placing me under a weight
of obligation to the company.
Some time in May, 1863, I was on picket duty as sergeant at outpost,
from which guards were sent out every two hours to relieve those on
the line. Guards at this outpost were expected to, and usually did,
turn out and present arms to the officer of the day, or other officer,
when he came around. On this particular day a cold, drizzling rain
was falling, and the officer wore a gum coat, concealing insignia
of office, or special duty. Four of the boys were pitching quoits
(horse-shoes), as a means of diversion, when the officer on horseback
was observed in the distance through woods. The quoit pitching ceased,
and the boys made ready to "take arms" and "fall in." But the horseman
either did not see, or pretended that he did not see the outpost, until
he got well past a point in our front, then quickly turning, dashed
upon us. As I was satisfied the officer was playing a "smart Aleck"
game, I had said to the boys, "never mind; pay no attention to him,"
and only two or three turned out. Arriving at the outpost, reining his
steed, and bowing up his neck with a self-satisfied air, as though
he thought himself "autocrat of all the Russias," officer demanded,
"Where's the corporal or sergeant in charge?" I responded "Here."
Officer inquired my name, rank, and regiment. Noting the information
I gave him, officer rode away, without giving his name, or business,
as requested. The latter I learned next day on returning to camp. An
order from Sheridan had been received by the company commander to
"reduce Sergeant Wm. H. Newlin to the ranks; fill vacancy, etc." An
investigation was had; those who had been on duty with me the past
twenty-four hours and myself, were summoned, and all the facts were
stated. The general's order was complied with--that had to be done--and
an election was ordered to be held at nine o'clock next morning, to
fill vacancy thus created. The hour for election arrived, and as there
was no candidate against me I received a _unanimous_ vote, and was
elected--not appointed--to "fill vacancy." Division head-quarters was
notified, "Order complied with; Wm. H. Newlin reduced, and vacancy
filled." And that was the end of it, except that Lieutenant Kyger
cautioned all the boys not to say any thing about the matter in writing
home, adding, "What if news of that should get back to Georgetown?"
But I didn't care where the news went to, whether to Georgetown or
Damascus, so all the facts were given.
Were in two different camps at Murfreesboro, first Bradley, then
Shafer--named for our brigade commander killed at Stone River. From
Jan. 1st to June 30th, 1863, inclusive, the company lost members as
follows, in addition to the three already noted, viz:
John W. Smith, Discharged, Jan. 3, 1863, disability.
Carey A. Savage, Discharged, Feb. 6, 1863, disability.
John V. Don Carlos, Discharged, May 10, 1863, disability.
Enoch Braselton, Discharged, March 12, 1863, disability.
William Cook, Discharged, Jan. 28, 1863, disability.
Robert W. Cowan, Discharged, Feb. 9, 1863, disability.
Lawrence Dye, Discharged, Jan. 28, 1863, disability.
Benj. F. Edmonds, Discharged, Feb. 10, 1863, disability.
Wright Madden, Transferred to gun-boat service, April 16, 1863.
Jacob Martin, Died at Murfreesboro, Feb. 21, 1863.
William McEntyre, Died at Nashville, Jan. 15, 1863.
Thomas Elwood Madden, Discharged, Feb. 20, 1863, disability.
Joshua T. Nicholson, Died at Nashville, Jan. 18, 1863.
Christopher C. Shires, Discharged, May 28, 1863, disability.
John M. Thompson, Discharged, Feb. 20, 1863, disability.
James F. Williams, Discharged, March 26, 1863, disability.
George Miley, Died at Nashville, Feb. 3, 1863.
Robert B. Drake, Discharged, June 30, 1863, disability.
In all, twenty-one men, making a total loss to July 1, 1863, of
thirty-nine men.
Started June 23, 1863, on Chattanooga campaign. First injury to member
of Company was the wounding of Alex. C. Nicholson, at Fairfield.
Followed on, passing Manchester and Estill Springs, wading Elk River,
and passing through Winchester to Cowan's Station. Halted at latter
place, July 3, 1863, hearing next day the news of Gettysburg and
Vicksburg.
A few days later passed through Cumberland Tunnel, and on to Stevenson,
Alabama. At Stevenson there was a delay until Sept. 2d, when the
command pushed on to the Tennessee River, at Bridgeport, crossing on
the 3d, and going over Sand Mountain, and on down to Alpine, Georgia.
When company left Stevenson I remained, with others, in consequence of
chills, having had medicine prescribed for breaking same about August
30th.
Captain Patterson McNutt resigned July 29, 1863, and First Lieutenant
Tilmon D. Kyger was mustered in as captain of company, Sept. 4th,
following.[B]
[B] NOTE.--On morning, Sept. 3d, we followed company to Bridgeport,
arriving just as command was starting to cross the river. Being wearied
by the tramp, James T. Maudlin, Henderson Goodwin, William Martin, and
myself were again left in temporary hospital. Next morning, feeling
much refreshed, concluded to apply for passes to go on to company. We
were disappointed, myself in particular, as that date, Sept. 4, 1863,
marked the end of my twenty-first year. About noon, a long wagon train
began crossing the river, and while at dinner we conceived the idea
of getting across, under the guise of train guards. So, striking the
train at a little distance from the river, we distributed ourselves
at intervals, among the wagons, loading our luggage, except gun and
bayonet. The scheme worked; and on getting across, we repossessed
ourselves of our luggage, and passed ahead of the train. We diligently
pressed forward until sunset. We then located a camp, got roasting-ears
from a field to our right, an iron pot, and water at a house to our
left, and in due time feasted, chatted, and retired for the night, not
knowing how near we might be to enemies, or how far from friends. After
midnight a terrible racket, to our front, awakened and frightened us.
Imagining the commotion was produced by a dash of the enemy's cavalry,
we arose in great haste, scattered our fire, gathered our traps, and
hied us away to the brush. The disturbance ceased, our excitement
subsided, and we resumed our former position. After breakfast next
morning we started, and on going one-fourth of a mile we came to a
lot, of say three acres, in which were a dozen or more horses, colts,
and cows. Up to nearly noon at least, we attributed the racket to the
stock. Keeping steadily on, and not meeting or overtaking any troops
or trains, and the road showing less indications of any having passed,
we began to feel lonesome. Just before noon, after passing a house on
our left, we stopped, and sent one of our squad back to inquire if any
troops had passed that morning. Comrade soon returned with information
that a small body of cavalry had passed, going south, about two hours
before. Signs in the road, and on either side, seemed to confirm the
report, but as our scout had failed to ascertain the character of the
cavalry, he was sent for further information. In answer to question as
to whose, or what cavalry had passed, our man was told it was "we'rn."
Further inquiry established a probability that it was a detachment of
Roddy's Confederate cavalry. For certain reasons we did not go back
past the house, but kept straight ahead, as though it was our business
to overtake that detachment. Fifteen minutes later we were following
a road in an easterly direction. Going at a "quick" gait, and being
about to pass a bunch of pigs, averaging about sixty pounds weight, we
concluded we wouldn't pass all of them. It was very quickly done, as we
dare not fire a gun, or allow a pig to squeal much. The choice parts of
the pig were appropriated to our own special purposes. After dinner we
pursued our way, and soon discovered intersecting roads, and evidences
of the passage of troops and trains. Later our suspense was ended, and
before dark, of Sept. 6th, we had reached the company.
The movement to Alpine, by Thomas' and McCook's corps, having forced
Bragg out of Chattanooga, next came the hard marching necessary to
concentrate the Union forces, before the reinforced enemy should turn
and crush Crittenden's corps.
Arrived in vicinity of Chickamauga battlefield, late September 18th.
Got nearer next day; was under fire, but not engaged.
Saturday night, September 19th, company furnished a corporal, R. J.
Hasty, and two or three guards for duty at Sheridan's head-quarters.
McCook, Crittenden, and other generals, were at head-quarters in
course of the night. Sheridan was restless and dissatisfied, and
altogether indications, as interpreted by our corporal and guards,
were unfavorable as to our prospects for to-morrow. Bradley's brigade
(Sheridan's third), had been very roughly used in the afternoon, and
his first and second brigades would probably "catch it" to-morrow. We
were in the second (Laibold's brigade.) The night was dark, the weather
was cool, and fire was forbidden. Our position was in heavy woods; the
noise and racket in our front, whether made by the enemy or by our own
troops, sounded and resounded terribly ominous in our ears. Daybreak
came, and with it orders to move; we were out of rations, or nearly
so, and not allowed time to draw a supply. Lytle persisted in drawing
rations for his (the first) brigade, notwithstanding orders to move
immediately. Moved two miles or more to the left; took position, and
awaited further orders.
Before noon orders came, and we "went in." Of this memorable battle
history tells; it has been "fought over," and "wrote up," many times.
As within an hour from "going in," we had, with others, surrendered,
and passed to the rear of five lines, two ranks each, of Confederate
troops, we will not attempt a description of the small part of the
battle we witnessed. For the first time we viewed the situation amid
and to rear of the enemy. Doubt and uncertainty seemed to have place
among the Confederates, although they were advancing. Officers were
busy gathering up stragglers and hurrying them forward. Too many wanted
to guard prisoners. Swords were drawn, and wildly flourished, and much
ado made, probably because of the presence of so many "Yankees." Rope
lines and traces, and other rope rigging to artillery, and sorghum
stalks, sticking in haversacks of Bragg's men, attracted our attention.
We saw Gen. Longstreet with an immense escort following him. We saw
Gen. Hood lying under the fly of a tent, wounded; later he had his
leg taken off. After one o'clock enemy's right fell back, and our left
advanced. We saw several solid shot, skipping over the ground, which
had been sent by Crittenden's batteries. We had many companions in our
new and strange experience, and formed many new acquaintances, most
of them of short duration. Some fourteen hundred of Gen. Sheridan's
division, and many from other commands, had been collected in one
place. Hesser and North, of Company A, and Brown and myself, of Company
C, were one little squad of the Seventy-third that did not scatter
much. We encountered no other members of our regiment until reaching
Richmond.
Up to this point we have given facts, in the history of the company,
of which we had personal knowledge. What few incidents or accidents
in its history, from Chickamauga up to opening of Atlanta campaign
here given are vouched for, my information touching the same being
derived from reliable sources. The losses sustained by company in
battle of Chickamauga were as follows: David A. Smith, Enoch Smith,
and Artemas Terrell, killed; Wm. R. Lawrence, John R. Burk, Henderson
Goodwin, Nathaniel Henderson, Henry C. Henderson, Austin Henderson,
Jehu Lewis (color bearer), and John Bostwick (discharged May 27,
1864), wounded; and all the following named were captured, viz:
Enoch P. Brown, Wm. H. Newlin, John R. Burk, Wm. F. Ellis, Austin
Henderson, and John Thornton. Of those that were captured, Burk and
Lewis were soon exchanged, being seriously wounded; Burk, however,
went to Richmond; losing an arm, he was discharged June 9, 1864. Lewis
was exchanged on battlefield. Austin Henderson was exchanged late in
1864. John Thornton, Enoch P. Brown, and William F. Ellis, died in
Andersonville prison, in order named: September 16th, 20th, and 23d,
1864, respectively. Number of Brown's grave, 9,350; Ellis', 9,703.
Number of Thornton's grave not given. Wm. H. Newlin was never either
paroled or exchanged. Nearly every member of company was struck by
balls, or fragments of shell, or trees, in some part of the body,
accoutrements, or clothing. At nightfall only three of the company were
present at call of the captain. During the night a dozen or more others
rallied upon this feeble remnant. Chickamauga was a dreadful strain
upon the strength and powers of endurance of the soldier, and September
20, 1863, is, and will ever be, a memorable day in our country's
history. By September 22d, some twenty or more of the company had
reached Chattanooga, and were beginning to assume at least a defensive
attitude. Early in September commissions for Lawrence and Smith, as
first and second lieutenants, respectively, were sent for, but neither
were ever mustered in on them; Lawrence resigning, November 24, 1863,
as second lieutenant, and Smith having met his fate as already noted.
Following Chickamauga came the siege of Chattanooga, and with it very
scant supplies, and hard picket and forage duty. The "cracker line"
being often disturbed, and foraging not yielding, or "panning out" very
heavily, the supply of rations, provender, for man and beast, was far
short of ordinary demands. November 25th the battle of Missionary Ridge
occurred, in which Company C fortunately suffered very few casualties,
the most serious one being the wounding of Stephen Newlin. After
Missionary Ridge company and command went to the relief of Burnside at
Knoxville. On this winter campaign much hard marching and great fatigue
were endured. Some one or two, or more, of the company, not starting
with the command, followed up later with squads and detachments. In one
or more instances the enemy's cavalry attempted to "gobble up" these
squads. During its stay in East Tennessee, regiment encamped for a time
at Haworth's Mill, near New Market, and also at Lenoir's Station. From
latter place, it is said, some members of company made frequent visits
in the country east of river, and it is further alleged, one or more of
them got married. Dandridge, I believe, was the farthest point eastward
to which command penetrated in the Knoxville campaign. Capt. Kyger
was very sick at Knoxville, in course of winter, and on recovering
sufficiently was granted leave of absence.
Winter breaking, and time for opening of the Atlanta campaign
approaching, the regiment returned to vicinity of Chattanooga,
encamping at Cleveland, at which point we rejoined it, on our return
from prison. April 11, 1864, Wm. R. Cook was mustered in, as a recruit
to company, being last name entered on company roll.[C]
[C] NOTE.--Soon after capture were placed under a strong guard, our
partners, being Brown, Hesser, and North. Jos. C. Squires, an attachee,
before capture, of Gen. Rosecrans' staff, "stood in" with us a day or
so, until catching sight of Col. Von Strader. We dropped our extra
ammunition in Chickamauga Creek. Passed Ringgold, Sunday evening, about
eight o'clock. Four miles farther on, halted until morning. Arrived
at Tunnell Hill about noon, September 21st. A morsel of bacon issued
to each man, a piece four inches long, could have been drawn through
a half-inch augur hole, without squeezing out much grease. Boarded
railroad train about three o'clock, P. M., and started on tour of
Confederacy. Rode on top of car part of time; came near rolling off.
Reached Atlanta night of September 22d. Put up at Barracks. Next day
were marched past a clerk at a table; gave clerk our name, company
and regiment. Drew rations, September 24th. Started early; arrived
at Augusta before night. Bought a huge watermelon; all we could do
to carry it; cost fifty cents. Were guarded closely in court-house
enclosure. Got away with melon by calling neighbors. September 25th,
took an early train for Columbia. Cars crowded as usual; excitement
subsiding; novelty of trip wearing off. Reached Columbia morning of
26th. Were delayed three hours. Finally got started northward, the
direction we wanted to go, if we didn't stop too soon. Rode all day
up to three o'clock. Stopped at a little station near line between
the Carolinas. Lots of sweet potatoes on the platform; we let them
alone. Many people were there, mostly women, young and old. An old lady
delivered an off-hand address, giving advice to the "Yankees." She
wanted to know why we "couldn't let the South alone. We're not meddlin'
with your affairs. You all go back North and stay on your farms, and
in your factories, and work-shops. Yes, go back to your homes and
make shoes for us." Reached Charlotte late in the day. A few of the
boys got away, and trouble and delay were occasioned in getting them
to train again. Next day, Sunday, September 27th, arrived at Raleigh.
Were viewed by many people, mostly colored, while waiting. Got under
way again, traveled all night, arriving at Weldon next day. Dismounted
from cars; were guarded near railroad; drew rations. Invested one
dollar and a half in extras. Boarded train early on September 29th, and
dismounted no more until arriving at Richmond. Put up at Libby about
eleven o'clock the night of 29th. Paid Dick Turner twelve dollars next
day under protest. He said he would pay it back when we were paroled or
exchanged. Was never paroled or exchanged, so the twelve dollars ain't
due yet. Went to the Rosser (tobacco) house late on the 30th. We were
guided around to it. Stayed one night with Rosser, then went to Smith
and Pemberton houses, October 1st. On the way fell in with Ellis and
Thornton, of Company C. Stationary for quite a while; had a diversity
of pastime, read Testament, played checkers, fought vermin, but never
carried any rations over from one day to next. Kilpatrick--Jesse
D., not James, as we have it on page 10--joined our Seventy-third
delegation; his credentials were from Company B. Got our share of the
sugar. Stopped one night at Scott House; next day, November 14th,
took train for Danville, Va., arriving November 15th. Our delegation
generally agreed, worked and voted as a unit on all questions.
Consisting of seven members, we settled things among ourselves in
committee, before going to the full house. Attention was occupied a few
days considering a plan for a general break; plan never fully matured,
i. e. in the full house; killed in committee, no doubt. December 15th
we seceded, withdrew from prison No. 2, on account of small-pox, and
went to hospital. In time recovered, and was variously employed up to
February 19, 1864. Formed new acquaintances; organized a new alliance;
seceded again, the night of date last mentioned.
In issue of _National Tribune_ of November 16, 1882, my comrade L.
B. Smith, criticises my narrative, in a manner complimentary to it,
however. He says, "Many important points are left out; all he has
written is true, and much more." Have supplied one of those "important
points" on page 4, the very _important_ one to comrade Smith. I refer
to his rescue, by Sutherland, from drowning in Craig's Creek. Another
interesting, if not "important point," left out, is that which includes
the proposal, from a mulatto girl of some fifteen Summers, that we
should leave Smith with herself and parents as a "hostage," security
that we, after getting through, would send a squad of cavalry after the
whole family. Other interesting points were some of our discussions
as to feasibility of things proposed, such as the taking of the
horses, the third night out; which road to take--this, that, or the
other; and the project of unearthing money said to be hid in a certain
portion of a river bank. Another important and interesting point in
Mr. Smith's life did not come within the compass of my narrative,
viz.: his standing guard for a few minutes over Mr. Jefferson Davis,
immediately after, or within a day or two of his capture. Mr. Smith
became twenty-one years old in February, 1864, while on our trip. The
cut--upper left corner--represents Smith as he appeared at about the
age of thirty years. Another interesting point was the management,
making a friend, by Sutherland, of Huffman's dog. So skillfully did
Sutherland get on the "good side" of the dog that he never barked
once, or gave his owner the slightest intimation or warning of our
approach. Comrade Sutherland, I believe, was connected, in or about,
the despatching of Maj. Ross' dog in Richmond. Mr. Sutherland is, and
has always been a farmer; is now fifty years old; cut--lower right
corner--represents him as he appeared probably ten years ago. Other
interesting points left out are those in the experience of comrade
Tripp, after his separation from our party, March 4, 1864. Did not
know until November, 1881, that Tripp had survived these experiences.
Visiting him last November I learned the particulars of his singular
and somewhat protracted wanderings after we left him. Want of space
forbids any thing like a record of them here. His loneliness,
immediately following his misfortune in being left, must have been
oppressive; hungry and foodless, the shades of night closing around him
amid those rugged mountains, his feelings can scarcely be imagined.
With reluctance and fear he called, hoping his recent companions, or
some belated pursuer, might hear him; but there was no answering voice,
nothing but distressing silence, and his disappointment was very great.
Mr. Tripp is now fifty-seven years old; cut--lower left corner--shows
him as he appeared for some months after his discharge in December,
1864. Wood and Taylor are accounted for on page 4. In Wood's case the
information is direct and official; he was about twenty-six years old
at time of his death. In Taylor's case the information is indirect and
circumstantial, but his fate is probably correctly indicated on page 4.
He was about twenty-seven years old at time we left him.
The engravings herewith, "The Ferry Scene," and "Left Alone," are
reasonably accurate and true to the reality. "Out of the Woods" is
intended to represent the general idea of escape, our troubles behind,
our persevering, unremitting efforts ended, and our safety assured.
Though as uniting, bringing together, two or three separate scenes,
"Out of the Woods" is also a faithful picture. Conceding that Taylor's
fate, as the principal figure in "Left Alone," was that, which all the
information suggests, indescribably sad, and gloomy must have been
his last hour. Nothing of hope or comfort in his anticipations of the
future, his busy thoughts must have drifted away from his surroundings
and recent events, and sped across the sea, and dwelt upon his father
and mother there, who were ignorant of his fate. This brings us to the
events mentioned on page 109. At Georgetown, while on furlough, we met
Capt. Kyger and P. B. Huffman, of Company C. Furlough soon run out.
The rocks and hills about Georgetown seemed very small. Separated from
home and friends once more, and started in company with Huffman for the
front. This was in the latter part of April. Encountered my escaping
comrade Sutherland in Indianapolis, and accompanied him the greater
part of the way to Chattanooga. Arrived in camp at Cleveland, May 2,
1864, just at sunset. Had to talk nearly all night, and then get up
next morning and start on the Atlanta campaign.
From June 30, 1863, to July 1, 1864, the total loss to company, from
all causes, was fourteen men, including Amos Bogue. Transferred to
Invalid corps, August 1, 1863; Clark B. Brant, discharged November 12,
1863; Merida Thornton and Aaron Willison, transferred to Invalid corps,
January 15th and February 1, 1864; James T. Slaughter, transferred
to V. R. C., May 1, 1864; Charles W. Cook, permanently detached as
blacksmith to Bat. G., First Mo. Art., August 26, 1863; and James
W. Trimble, transferred to V. R. C., April 10, 1864, the other seven
already noted; making a total loss to date of fifty-three men.
Moved from Cleveland, May 3, 1864, with command, first brigade,
second division, fourth army corps. Under fire first time, on Atlanta
campaign, in the vicinity of Catoosa Springs, May 5. At Rocky Faced
Ridge, May 9th, was again under fire, but not engaged. Sharpshooters
from the regiment did good work here; Company C being represented by
John P.
Jones, Alex. C. Nicholson, and James T. Maudlin. Was engaged at
Resaca, May 14th. Wm. D. Bales struck by piece of shell. Was engaged
at Adairsville, May 17th. Up to, and including Adairsville, Company
C was in my charge, there being no commissioned officer present.
On this date Capt. Kyger arrived at the front and took command of
company. At Kingston there was a delay of three or four days. Pursuant
to orders, all vacancies in line, and non-commissioned officers were
filled, or selections made with that object in view. May 22d, Company
C attended to this duty. The company was entitled to a lieutenant,
and an election was held. Candidates were voted for, for orderly
sergeant, with the understanding that the successful candidate should
be commissioned first lieutenant. Election resulted in my favor by
a small majority--four votes, I believe--which, considering all the
circumstances, my long absence, and the fact that my competitor had
been present all the time, was a No. 1 soldier, none better, I regarded
as extremely flattering, and was therefore very thankful for the
advancement.
My commission was sent for; it bears date June 9, 1864. The list of
non-commissioned officers being filled, stood as follows:
WM. M. SHEETS, orderly sergeant.
JAMES T. MAUDLIN, second sergeant.
JEHU LEWIS, third sergeant.
ROBERT J. HASTY, fourth sergeant.
ALEX. C. NICHOLSON, fifth sergeant.
WESLEY BISHOP, first corporal.
JONATHAN ELLIS, second corporal.
AUSTIN HENDERSON, third corporal.
SAMUEL HEWITT, fourth corporal.
ALFRED E. LEWIS, fifth corporal.
GEORGE W. MARTIN, sixth corporal.
STEPHEN NEWLIN, seventh corporal.
GEO. HOLLINGSWORTH, eighth corporal.
It was at this time and place that A. E. Lewis notified Ellis of his
appointment as corporal; adding, "and your commission has gone on to
Washington for approval." All of the above were mustered out June
12, 1865. The list does not contain one of the original sergeants or
corporals; except that Orderly Sheets was one of the first corporals.
Recommenced active operations about May 25th. June 18th John Braselton
was wounded. By June 25th the actions at Pine and Lost Mountains,
Dallas, New Hope Church, and preliminary battles before Kenesaw
Mountain had taken place, without inflicting serious damage to company.
Capt. Kyger was sick, a week or more, up to and including June 27th,
the day of the assault on Kenesaw. This assault was the first heavy
battle occurring after my muster in as lieutenant, and owing to the
formation of each regiment preparatory to the assault, and the absence
of my seniors, I was placed in command of two companies, C and H,
forming the third or middle division of regiment. Two lines, of two
ranks each, were in front of, and two lines, of two ranks each, were in
rear of companies C and H. Owing to nature of ground these companies
came off well, suffered less than any of the others. From point of
starting in, the ground sloped considerably to line immediately
without, or in front of the very elaborate, systematic obstructions in
front of enemy's works, and from this same line the ground covered by
these obstructions was gradually ascending to line of fortifications.
Pending the heaviest fire of enemy, companies C and H were on the
lowest ground, all the other companies, whether in front or rear, being
on higher ground, so that fire of enemy was comparatively harmless
to C and H, there being only four or five slight wounds received in
the two companies, and these inflicted while getting back to position
from which they started. Of the regiment, three were killed, and some
twelve or fifteen wounded. There were several cases of overheating,
the weather being extremely hot, and the assault, from some cause, not
being made as early as intended. The casualties to regiment, seeming so
few, in an assault of such magnitude, it is proper to state that number
of men in regiment that day, present for duty, did not exceed three
hundred. In our front, too, were very heavy earth-works, feebly manned;
but for the arrival of reinforcements we could have effected, at least,
a _temporary_ breach in the enemy's line.
Early July 3d it was found that the enemy had fallen back. Followed
up immediately; regiment lost one man, killed, July 4th. There was a
delay of a week at the Chattahoochie River. Command took position,
near river, above Vining's Station. July 9th division marched to
Roswell; destroyed some mills or factories, and crossed and recrossed
the Chattahoochie while gone, returning on the 12th. Writer was not
with company on Roswell trip; but owing to depletion of strength was
favored; left behind in charge of regimental camp, and those who had
been excused from duty. July 13th, crossed Chattahoochie River on
pontoon bridge. While crossing, writer was taken sick, and was obliged
to drop behind soon after getting across the river. In attempting to
reach the upland and overtake company, was prostrated, the result of
over-heating or partial sun-stroke, and have no recollection whatever
of events occurring after the crossing of the Chattahoochie, up to the
crossing of Nance's Creek, July 18. There had, however, been a delay
at Buck's Head, and also a general inspection. Late on the 19th there
were two or three severe skirmishes along the line of Peach Tree Creek,
one of which approached the dignity of a battle, and several prisoners,
including a general officer, were captured by our forces. Crossed Peach
Tree Creek at ten o'clock, P. M., of the 19th.
About noon, on the 20th, brigade was assigned position in line, and
hastily built slight breast-works of logs, limbs, and rails. This done,
was ordered to make reconnoisance to front. In execution of this order,
the enemy was found in force, and we came back at a double-quick,
to find our temporary works occupied by other troops. Took another
position, further to right, the Seventy-third holding the extreme
right of fourth corps. There was a gap of two hundred yards or more,
between right of fourth and left of twentieth corps; so the right of
Seventy-third was retired, swung back a little in order to cover this
gap. The battle immediately opened, giving no time for construction
of works, however slight, and continued about an hour, with two
casualties to Company C--William Martin and the writer, wounded.
Sampson McCool, of Company E, was also wounded. Sampson and William
McCool, and John Murdock, the latter killed at Perryville, being the
three loaned by Company C to Company E, that were never retransferred
to C. Of regiment, one man was killed, and several others wounded. My
wound, being slight, healed entirely by August 1st, but I was detained
at division field hospital until August 16th, on account of general
physical debility, resulting from the sunstroke of 13th. Command was
not in the battles of July 22d and 28th, so my hospital and prison
experience, covering in all eight months, deprived me of participation
in only one battle--Missionary Ridge--and one campaign--the East
Tennessee--in which the company engaged.
The latter part of August, started on the flanking movement to
Jonesboro and Lovejoy station. September 1st, engaged in tearing up
railroad, burning the ties, and twisting the heated rails around trees.
Arrived at Jonesboro too late to accomplish more than the capture of a
hospital and a few hundred prisoners, as the battle there was closing.
Night of September 1st, Company C stood picket out north-east of
Jonesboro, and toward morning the rumble of Hood's artillery and trains
could be heard, as they were passing hurriedly on a road still further
eastward, retreating from Atlanta. Later, the explosions at Atlanta
were distinctly heard. Followed on to Lovejoy's. Were under fire, but
had no good opportunity of returning it. Withdrew from enemy's front
at Lovejoy's the night of September 5th or 6th, returning to Atlanta,
arriving on the 8th. Went into quarters with some expectation of
remaining inactive for a longer time than we did. Writer, however, saw
the exterior of the barracks, the interior of which he had seen, as a
prisoner, just a year before.
About September 26th to 28th, were ordered to Chattanooga, going by
railway; and from thence marched down into Alpine valley again, about
October 18th, returning the latter part of October, via Chickamauga
battle-ground, to Chattanooga. On this return march from Alpine, quite
a number of recruits of Fifty-first Illinois fell behind, "straggled,"
and no wonder, as most of them wore overcoats, and carried knapsacks
packed full; one of them carried his bayonet fixed, instead of in
scabbard, whereupon Corporal Lewis (who had just awakened from a short
sleep at roadside, where company was resting) cried out, "Halt, halt,
you Fifty-firster; I want to know WHERE YOU GOT YOUR GUN SHARPENED."
About November 1, 1864, went by rail to Huntsville, Alabama, and from
there marched to Athens, and from thence, via Lynnville and Pulaski, to
Columbia, Tenn. Here a part of twenty-third corps met, and reinforced
the fourth corps. Hood's rebel army was becoming very troublesome
and apparently impatient for large results, and was pressing ours
very _closely_. Considerable skirmishing took place about Columbia,
in which Company C bore its full share. Under pressure of enemy our
forces crossed Duck River the night of November 28th, the Seventy-third
standing picket the balance of that night on north bank of river. Next
morning, the pressure being great, there was no time to relieve us,
and being already deployed, we fell back, first as flankers, then as
skirmishers, in the direction of Spring Hill, arriving there about four
o'clock in afternoon of 29th. We were to the right, or south-east of
Pike and of Spring Hill. The part of the Seventy-third in the action at
Spring Hill was to assist in resisting a cavalry dash by enemy, just
before sunset. To do this we were only compelled to shorten our line a
little, and deliver a brisk fire for the space of about ten minutes.
Heavy fighting was going on near us, in which enemy's infantry was
engaged, pending which, night fall ended the contest, luckily for our
forces. There was great confusion, one result of which was, our being
compelled to stand picket all night, as on the preceding night. We must
have been VERY CLOSE indeed to enemy's pickets, though we did not see
or hear them; but could distinctly see the enemy at a little distance
around his camp-fires. Our trains were hustling the whole night
through, and got well on the way before morning toward Franklin.
Daylight of November 30th came, and we were still on the picket
line. By sunrise we began falling back, deployed as skirmishers, and
skirmishing began, and was kept up with more or less severity to
within one mile of Franklin, when our brigade was relieved. Very soon
after skirmishing began in the morning we crossed to the left of the
road, and when but little more than half way to Franklin, Capt. Kyger
being sick, was unable to remain longer with company, and was taken
in charge by Surgeon Pond, and we saw him no more until arriving at
Nashville. Being relieved, as before mentioned, by passing within, and
to rear, of skirmish line, which had been thrown out, the brigade,
Opedycke's first brigade, second division, fourth army corps, formed
and marched in column, with little delay, to Franklin, passing on the
way a brigade which must have been the third brigade of our division,
posted some distance in front of a temporary line of breastworks, which
had been hastily built, extending from a point above to another point
on the river below the town. These works, scarcely a mile in length,
semi-circular in form, and covering, not only Franklin, but also the
bridge across the Harpeth, were filled with troops; so our brigade
passed on to the rear, and took position behind Carter's Hill. This was
at about 3:30 o'clock, P. M. The men at once set about preparing coffee
and something to eat, being greatly fatigued from loss of sleep, and
almost constant duty since evening of 28th, on crossing Duck River. All
the trains, and the first division of the fourth corps, were north of
the Harpeth.
Dinner over once, we should probably have followed and taken the
advance, having assisted two days in covering the retreat. But no; not
all of us were permitted to finish dinner before Hood had martialed his
forces, swept up suddenly, driving in the brigade, posted in front, as
before stated, in its wake, and under cover of same crushing in, making
a fearful breach in our main line. Heavy firing began, clouds of dust
and smoke arose, hundreds of rebel troops were thrust into the breach
which they had made, and beyond; singly, and in squads, small and
great, our men began flying from the front, throwing away their guns;
pieces of artillery and cassions, with horses attached, came thundering
down; confusion and consternation indescribable had been wrought in
five minutes or less time.
The Thirty-sixth, Forty-fourth, and Seventy-third Illinois, and
Twenty-fourth Wisconsin, and One Hundred and Twenty-fifth Ohio, five
regiments, composing Opedycke's brigade, were instantly on their
feet, anticipating orders, seizing their guns, which had been stacked
on one line, made a simultaneous, irresistible rush to the front,
carrying every thing before them at the point of the bayonet, capturing
thirteen battle-flags, nearly one thousand prisoners, and restoring
and strengthening our line, so that it was broken no more. Stung to
desperation at this sudden turning of the scales in this important
battle, the infuriated enemy _charged_, and CHARGED _again_ and AGAIN,
carrying his reckless resistance right up to, yes on to, our slight
works, to the very muzzles of our guns. But we were there to stay,
at least until getting ready to leave of our own accord; but it took
_work_, HARD WORK, PERSISTENT, UNFLAGGING and UNFLINCHING WORK, to
maintain our position. How it was done I can scarcely hope to describe.
On arriving at the point from whence our forces had been driven,
there were too many troops to operate to advantage, and afford all a
semblance of protection. Fortunately, the ground, beginning at the
works, was gradually declining to the rear. Company C, with a few
soldiers of other companies, was posted between, and to the front of,
two pieces of artillery. All were either lying on the ground or in a
low, stooping posture. Immediately at the works was a strong line of
men, with barely elbow room, who did nothing but fire; in rear of this
line were two or three tiers of men, who were busy loading pieces and
passing them forward; to rear of these were still others, who were
cleaning guns, breaking open boxes of ammunition, and distributing
cartridges to the loaders; others still further back, carried up the
boxes of ammunition from a point where left by ammunition wagons.
There was _work_ for all, and all WORKED. There was a full half hour
of desperate fighting, perhaps equalled at some time and place, but
scarcely ever, if ever, surpassed. For several fearful minutes, as a
result of combined, sturdy, heroic effort on the part of all, from end
to end of our line, the small arms volleyed; there was no determining
of intervals between volleys; it was as one. The cannon thundered;
the shell shrieked; the smoke rolled; the earth trembled; the heroic,
reckless, desperate, enemy surged, and _surged_ again and AGAIN, right
up to our line, and recoiled as often, _recoiling last_, before the
merciless tempest of death.
Darkness came on, and shrouded the scene; there was a lull in the
fight; a great calm after a great storm. Many of our soldiers had been
slain, but for each one, from three to five of the rebels had bitten
the dust. Very many on both sides were wounded, the few mortally, the
many slightly. Did those who had not finished dinner, now finish it?
No. Was supper prepared? No. Was there time for coffee? Not much. The
foe, threatening and defiant, was right there, within sixty feet,
waiting to pounce upon us. Guns were put in order, ammunition in
abundance was got ready at hand, and all precautions taken. Nor had
we long to wait until the first night assault was made; right up to
our works they charged, coming within space measured by the flashes
from our rifles. But before our galling fire the enemy quailed and fell
back. Our fire slackened some; but within an hour two or more assaults
were made, with like result.
After the last assault we kept up a heavy fire for some minutes, until
some person, some officer perhaps, between the lines, but nearest ours,
yelled out: "Cease firing, cease firing;" repeating the command several
times. Amid the smoke and darkness it could not be told who or what
he was, whether Union or rebel. In a few minutes the firing did, in a
great measure, cease; later it ceased almost entirely. At same time a
burning building in the suburbs of Franklin fell in, making a great
light, by which we saw several, as many as a dozen, standards raise
along enemy's line. He was preparing, no doubt, for a last desperate
effort to break our front. Brisk firing immediately opened from our
side, increasing in volume and ceasing not until every battle-flag on
enemy's front was laid low. This ended the contest; quiet succeeded;
and by midnight our weary forces had withdrawn from the field; crossed
the Harpeth, and were slowly wending their way to Nashville.
The loss to Seventy-third, in this battle, was nine killed and two
wounded that died soon afterward; one of the former being Adjt. Wilmer,
and one of the latter being Major Motherspaw; the loss to Company C
being one killed, Zenas Fulton, and one wounded, Joseph A. Allison,
who died in enemy's hands. There were three or four others of company
wounded, including the writer; and there were several others of the
regiment wounded; but nearly all of these were slight wounds, excepting
that of Captain Jonas Jones, and one or two others. Some two or three
years ago writer saw a statement from Gen. D. S. Stanley, who commanded
the fourth corps, until wounded, in this battle; which statement,
published in a Philadelphia paper, asserted that the fourth corps used
ninety wagon loads of ammunition the afternoon and night of November
30, 1864. It is reasonable to suppose that much of this ammunition was
destroyed; wasted in other ways than in "wild firing," the enemy's
losses, all told, being about five thousand five hundred, or three
times our own.
Col. Opedycke was breveted brigadier-general, and merited praise was
bestowed in congratulatory orders, for the part borne by his brigade in
the battle of Franklin. Any other brigade that was there would probably
have done as well, under the same circumstances; but as three-fifths of
the brigade were Illinoisians we take a pardonable pride in making this
imperfect record of its most conspicuous achievement.
Arrived at Nashville at one o'clock, P. M., December 1, 1864. We were
a very tired, sorely-taxed, and dirty lot of soldiers. Sleep was
imperatively demanded; and most of us, as soon as halted, or assigned
camping space, dropped on the ground and slept until sunset; by which
time Capt. Kyger had found us, and was anxiously ascertaining how
we had fared. Hood followed up immediately, taking position in our
front; and on December 3d, James Ashmore, of Company C, a faithful
soldier, was shot dead while standing picket. His body was buried in
the cemetery at Nashville. This was the last loss which befell Company
C, except in case of two or three members who were mustered out a few
days in advance of the regiment at hospitals, and one recruit--Wm. R.
Cook--transferred to the Forty-fourth Illinois. About this time we
received notification of the death of three members of the company
in Andersonville prison, as before noted, viz.: Brown, Ellis, and
Thornton, with whom the writer had spent three months as a prisoner.
How fortunate had we been, not only in escaping prison, but in passing
comparatively unharmed through twelve battles, since separating from
prison comrades, and standing now upon the threshold of the thirteenth,
destined to pass safely through that. Fortunate indeed we were, and
thankful, very thankful we are, and ought to be.
On December 15th and 16th, 1864, occurred the battles of Nashville,
in which command performed the part assigned it both days; in the
afternoon of the 16th joining in the grand, majestic charge, which
was the finishing stroke to the rebellion in the west. Casualties
to Company C, none to speak of, and to regiment very few, only one
man killed, and probably a dozen wounded. Enemy hugged his works so
closely that his fire passed above our heads. On our reaching the
works, those of the enemy who did not surrender fled with precipitated
haste. With utmost enthusiasm our troops pursued the flying enemy,
until darkness closed the race. Started early on the 17th, but our
cavalry took the job off our hands, pursuing Hood so closely that he
crossed the Tennessee River, with only a few shattered and broken
fragments of his late offensive army. We followed to Pulaski, Tenn.,
at which point, a day or two before Christmas, we heard, for the last
time, the whiz of an enemy's bullet.
Leaving Pulaski we took up our line of march for Huntsville, Ala.,
arriving January 5, 1865. Here we remained until March 28th; then
going by rail to Blue Springs, East Tennessee. While at Blue Springs
the war closed; Lee and Johnston surrendered, and Abraham Lincoln was
assassinated. News of the latter produced the wildest frenzy among
our troops. The latter part of April were ordered to Nashville. Going
by rail, we arrived in due course. Hostilities having ceased, the
excitement incident thereto having subsided, we led a quiet camp life
up to middle of June. The regiment was mustered out June 12, 1865,
starting a day or two later for Springfield, Ill., to receive final
payment and to disband.
We give name of each member of Company C that was present for muster
out June 12th, except where already noted; see list of sergeants and
corporals and remarks below on page 126, which with the fifty-three men
dropped from the roll by July 1, 1864, and the following dropped since,
or mustered out in advance of the regiment, make the one hundred and
four men, with which company entered the service: N. Brady and I. W.
Ward, transferred to United States engineer corps, July 20th and August
21st, 1864; E. P. Brown, Wm. F. Ellis, and John Thornton, died at
Andersonville; James A. Allison and Zenas Fulton, killed at Franklin;
James Ashmore, killed at Nashville; Nathaniel Henderson, mustered out
May 4th; William B. Cowan, May 17th, John Braselton, June 2d, and
Daniel Suycott, June 8, 1865; Samuel W. Sigler, transferred to Veteran
Reserve Corps, January 10, 1865, and William R. Cook, transferred to
Forty-fourth Illinois, June 12, 1865, fourteen in all.
TILMON D. KYGER, deceased.
WILLIAM H. NEWLIN.
DAVID MCDONALD.
PLEASANT B. HUFFMAN.
SAMUEL J. BOEN.
DAVID BRANSON,[D] deceased.
WILLIAM D. BALES.
JOHN DOOP.
HENDERSON GOODWIN.
AMACY M. HASTY.
HENRY C. HENDERSON.
GEORGE J. HARRIER.
JOHN P. JONES.
THOMAS JUDD.
ABRAHAM JONES.
CLAIBORNE MADDEN.
WILLIAM MARTIN.
JAMES S. PECK, deceased.
HARLAND H. REAGON.
JOSEPH W. REAGON.
WALTER SCOTT.
ISAAC H. THOMPSON.[D]
BENJAMIN PURDUM.
ISAAC R. THORNTON.
In all, 24
Add five sergeants and eight corporals, 13
Previously dropped from all causes as indicated, 67
---
Total, 104
DANVILLE, ILL., September 4, 1886.
[D] On detached service in rear, full term.
* * * * *
Transcriber's Notes:
Italic text is denoted by _underscores_
Every effort has been made to replicate this text as faithfully as
possible, including obsolete and variant spellings, inconsistent
hyphenation, and other inconsistencies.
Obvious punctuation errors and minor printer errors repaired.
Frequent use of 'eat' in place of 'ate' kept as printed.