ANTIETAM TO THE MEMORY OF THE BRAVE MEN OF THE NINTH NEW YORK INFANTRY (HAWKINS' ZOUAVES) WHO FOUGHT UPON THIS FIELD, AND ESPECIALLY TO THOSE WHO DIED HERE THAT THEIR COUNTRY MIGHT LIVE." THE NINTH REGIMENT NEW YORK VOLUNTEERS (HAWKINS' ZOUAVES) BEING A HISTORY OF THE REGIMENT AND VETERAN ASSOCIATION FROM 1 860 TO 1900 BY > , . , LIEUT. MATTHEW J. GRAHAM COMPANY "A," NINTH REGIMENT, N. Y. VOLUNTEERS, AND U. S. VETERAN RESERVE CORPS NEW YORK MDCCCC u IHt LIBRARY 671 CONGRESS, [ [Two Copies Received j MAR. J 3 1901 yOPVRIGHT ENTRy hcru, ''t-t/Qccl >LASS tf_*xe. N..I COPY 8. COPYRIGHT, 1900 BY MATTHEW J. GR \HAM , J? PRINTERS, -I I affectionately dedicate this work to my comrades who faithfully served and valiantly fought in the ranks of the Regiment during the War of the Rebellion. M. J. GRAHAM. CONTENTS. Introduction Chapter I. Derivation of Name Zouaves — Organiza- tion of the New York Zouaves in i860, with Copy of Original Pamphlet Contain- ing By-Laws, Committees, etc 21 " [I. Organization of Civil Club— Drill Master Serg't Benzoni — First Shot of the Civil War— Firing on Fort Sumter — First Offer of New York Troops— Organization of 9th N. Y. Volunteers— Field Officers— Castle Garden — Riker's Island — Severe Drills — New Uniform — Inspection by Gen'l John A. Dix — Off for Fortress Monroe — Pres- entation of Flags in Fifth Avenue — Arri- val at Newport News 32 " III. Advance on Big Bethel— The First Battle of the War — General Carr's Account of Battle of Big Bethel — Account of Major Winthrop's Death by a Southerner — Forces Engaged and Losses Sustained — Zouaves to the Front — Colonel Phelps and his Peculiarities — Right General Guide Herbert and His Grave Error — Two Zou- aves Attempt to get a " Pull " with Colonel Phelps 55 " IV. Reconnaissance by Companies A and F— Skirmish with the Enemy — Trouble about the Relative Rank of Officers — Decided by Drawing Lots — General Butler Super- seded by General Wool — Special Order for CONTENTS. Expedition to Hatteras Inlets — Three Companies of the Ninth Join Expedition — Arrival off Hatteras — Bombardment of Forts — Surrender — Amount of Material Captured 70 Chapt. V. Colonel Hawkins Assumes Command of Post — Correspondence Between Colonel Hawkins and General Wool— Expedition to Beacon Island — Lieut. -Colonel Betts and Five Companies Rejoin Regiment — Surrender of Gunboat " Fannie " — Attack on 20th Indiana — General Williams Super- sedes Colonel Hawkins — Construction of New Forts — Antipathy of Men to Wil- liams — Boys " Scouting " for Fresh Pork Seriously Alarm the General — Major Kimball and Two Companies Arrive from Newport News— Arrival of Burnside Ex- pedition — All Ready for Roanoke Island — Rations from the Sea — Wine Labels Passed as Currency — Robbing Potato Houses 84 " VI. Underway for Roanoke Island — Arrival — Engagement with the Forts — Landing of the Troops — Bivouac in the Mud for the Night — Stealing Bed from Beneath the Colonel — Army Moves on the Enemy — Major Kimball's Fear that the Men Might Weaken — Arrival in Front of Battery — Order to Charge the Works — Colonel De- Monteil Killed — First Bayonet Charge of the War — What Curie Saw — Reflections — Extracts from Reports of Generals in Command — Capture of Captain Wise — More Rain — Description of Prisoners ... 119 CONTENTS. Chapt.VII. Expeditions to Nag's Head and Winton, N. C. — Ninth Regiment Garrisons Roa- noke Island — Resignation of Lieutenant- Colonel Betts — Expedition under Major Jardine — Expedition to South Mills — Terrific March — Battle of South Mills or Camden — Heavy Loss of the Ninth — Death of Adjutant Gadsden — Return to Roanoke — Retrospection—General Reno's Report of Battle — Colonel Hawkins' Report I cj " VIII. Ninth New York Garrisons Roanoke Isl- land — Recreation the Order of the Day — Practical Uses of Captured Powder — Company K's New Battery Tactics Innocently Getting Square with the Com- pany Cook — Testimonial to Col. Hawkins — Parade and Drill of Ninth Under Com- mand of Non-Commissioned Officers — New Recruits Troubled with " Lapsy Palls " Cured by Sergeant Horner— Lieu- tenant Flusser, U. S. N., Captures Ply- mouth and Company " F " Detailed to Garrison Town — Runaway Slaves Re- turned to Owner — Wessel's Brigade Re- lieves Company " F "—Enemy Attack and Defeat Wessel, Re-Capture Plymouth and Kill Flusser — Burnside Leaves for Fort Monroe— Ninth Leaves Roanoke for Nor- folk — Camp for Contrabands— Losses of Burnside Expedition i 92 " IX. Farewell to Roanoke Island — Arrival at Old Fort Norfolk, Va.— Off for Fortress Monroe — Arrival at Falmouth, Va. — Drills and Dress Parades a Promi- nent Feature — Rumors of Disaster — CONTENTS. Army Deserts Fredericksburg and De- troys Stores — Pope's Campaign and Dis- astrous Failure — McClellan Again in Command of Army of the Potomac — Dis- order in Washington — Camp at Meridian Hill — Off for the Maryland Campaign — Description of March — Skirmishes With the Enemy — Arrival at Frederick City, Md. — Hospitality of Inhabitants — Fire in Jail — On to Antietam — Battle of South Mountain — Coolness of Major Jardine Under Fire — Death of General Reno and Comments on His Soldierly Qualities — Arrival Near Antietam — Night Before the Battle 238 Chapt. X. Lieutenant Graham's Letter Descriptive of the Battle of Antietam — Attack on the Stone Wall — Great Bravery of the Troops — Ordered to Retire and Lieutenant- Colonel Kimball's Protest— General Wil- cox in Person Peremptorily Orders Kim- ball to Fall Back — Assistance to the Wounded — McClellan's, Burnside's, Fair- child's, and Kimball's Reports — Mr. Kirkley's Statements of Total Killed in the Civil War, and Proportion of Wounded to Killed — General Longstreet's Com- ments on the Battle and Comparison with Other Notable Engagements — Percentage of Regimental and Brigade Loss of the Ninth Regiment 281 " XL Retreat of the Army of Northern Virginia — Apathy of Fifth Corps — Camping on the Antietam— Recruits for the Ninth — Their Reception and Treatment by Lieutenant- CONTENTS. ix PAGE Colonel Kimball and his Tribute to the Old Regiment — Captain Whiting— Visit from President Lincoln— The Loaves and the Good Zouaves — Hospital Arrange- ments—The Band Plays "Annie Laurie" for the Sick Men— Promotion of Surgeon Humphreys — Across Elk Ridge to Pleas- ant Valley— " Tenting on the Old Camp Ground" ^ - Q Chapt. XII. Clothing and Camp Equipage Left at Meridian Hill — Cleanliness — Knapsacks Recovered — Knapsack Drill — Hunger, Cold and Marching — Three Columns Abreast — Company G as Headquarter's Guard— Company K Joins General Kautz —General Burnside Relieves General Mc- Clellan of the Command of the Army- Scattering a Quartermaster's Train — Good Artillery Shooting— Thanksgiving Day at Falmouth — Battle of Fredricks- burg — Stragglers — Winter Quarters in Virginia— On to Fortress Monroe 354 " XIII. Establishment of Camp at Newport News —The Ninth Assigned as Provost Guard- Concentrating Troops- Sutlers' Trials- Rum as a Disturber of Martial Discipline — Review of the Ninth Corps— Horse Racing and Baseball— Enroute to For- tress Monroe and Portsmouth — Tele- grams—Borrowed Tents in Suffolk— An • Unwarranted Tragedy — The Use of Countersigns— Death of Brigadier-Gen- eral Corcoran — Ominous Thunders of Mutiny Calmed by General Getty— Re- moval to Fort Nansemond — Under Fire —Fake Bullets— Capturing a Battery— A CONTENTS. Lost Yankee in Rebel Lines— The Last Day — General Orders No. 27— Disappoint- ment of Recruits — Mustered Out 397 Chapt. XIV. The Recruits Left at Suffolk— Lack of Military Control — Volunteering for the Fight — Camp Rumors — Private Reconnoi- tering— The Man of Straw— Uncertainty and Anxiety Among the Men — Trans- ferred to the Third New York — Bossing the Regiment— Off for Field Service — Campaigning in South Carolina— Army of the James — Army of the Potomac — Men of the Ninth Distinguish Themselves — Regiment Dwindles Away — Call for Second Battalion— A New Ninth Organ- ized— Formation of 178th New York Vol- unteers — Ordered to Virginia — New Ninth Recruiting— The July Riots— Jar- dine and White Wounded — Rescued— Battalion at Fort Hamilton— Seventeenth New York— Ordered to the Front— Pro- visional Brigade — Service of 178th — Service of 17 th — Men Who Served in Other Regiments 433 " XV. Introduction to the Third Georgia — Va- rious Meetings on the Battlefield — Seek- ing Old Foes After the War— The Ninth Visits the Third— Incidents of the Visit to Georgia — Speeches — Reception of the Third Georgia by the Zouaves— How They were Treated by their Old -Time Foes — Banquets — Sightseeing — Excur- sions — Departure of the Georgians 46;, CONTENTS. PAGE Chapt XVI. Ceremonies at the Dedication of the Mon- ument Erected on the Battlefield of Antietam in Memory of the Dead of the Ninth New York Volunteers — Prelimin- ary Work of the Committees— Journey to the Battlefield — Comrade Richard's In- vocation — Comrade Graham's Introduc- tion — Address by Colonel Hawkins — Un- veiling the Monument — Oration by Rev. Clark Wright, of Company F — The Pres- entation to General Carman — Revisiting Points of Interest — The Return 493 "XVII. After Muster-Out— Desire of the Men of the Regiment to Retain the Flags — Man- ner in which they were Cared for — Reasons why they Should be Trans- ferred to the State — Correspondence with the Governor— Names of Survivors who were Present at the Ceremony — Recep- tion of the Delegation by Governor Roosevelt — Lieutenant Graham's Re- marks — Governor Roosevelt's Reply — Major DeBevoise's Sketch of Service — Taps— The End 555 Muster-out Roll rgy Errata 6^, INTRODUCTION. In the taking of Fort Sumter the rebels served their first notice upon the people of the loyal States of the coming of one of the most momentous events known to the history of any nation, and when two days later President Lincoln called for the levy of seventy-five thou- sand troops, it was like giving an order by the president of a great railway company to the maker of toy engines, for a like number of mogul locomotives. The call of the President found the Governors of States about as well prepared to fill his order as would have been the makers of the toys. The patriotic uprising, however, was complete. Millions of heads, hearts and hands were willing to do and to serve, but the great "how to" had to be learned, and there were but few teachers to show the way. There were thousands of well disposed, per- fectly inexperienced patriots who honestly be- lieved that the matter of making a good fighting machine out of a thousand perfectly raw recruits would be an easy one. Possibly the makers of the Ninth New York Volunteers were in 2 NINTH REGIMENT, NEW YORK J'OEUNTEERS. several important respects an exception to the general rule obtaining in relation to inexperience. In its field and staff there were three who had seen service in the United States Army, two as officers and one as a private; and in the line those captains and lieutenants who were edu- cated in the "Old Company" were well up in the Manual of Arms, Bayonet Exercise, and School of the Company, and theoretically, knew something of the School of the Battalion. In addition to this stock of professional quantities and qualities on hand, there was youth, no end of patriotic enthusiasm, ardent desire to learn, sincere wish to serve well, and a striving for a high plane of excellence in the performance of soldierly duties. With this capital on hand, the " Ninth" launched itself upon the difficult under- taking of organizing a body of eight hundred very young men into a regiment of fighting soldiers. April 15th, 1861, President Lincoln issued his first call for seventy-five thousand troops — it ought to have been a million, and possibly would have been for that number had not Sec- retary Seward earnestly advised that the war would be over in sixty days, the South did not intend to fight, was rising for a scare, etc., etc. All this in face of the historic fact that secession sentiment in many parts of the South had been INTRODUCTION persistently propagated for more than a quarter of a century, and that for many years their political leaders had been waiting for a pretense to commence an open revolt against the Union. A wise statesman would have noted these facts and acted accordingly. But the really large minded patriotic statesman, equipped to deal with great national questions, was not in evi- dence. In his place there were no end of cun- ning politicians, some of them more or less patriotic, but the better of them were trained with a strong bias in favor of self. Within three days from the printing of the President's call for troops, the enrollment book of the coming regiment showed over two thou- sand names of enlisted men. With the recording of names the work of selecting men of the kind wanted, young, strong, sound, of medium size, was carried forward, so that on the morning of the nineteenth of April, the number of men allowed by the State had been selected and were ready to be mustered into the service as a regiment of Volunteer Infantry. From this time on there was everything to do and nothing to do it with. Quarters had to be secured, rations supplied, clothing, arms and equipments obtained, and nearly eight hundred perfectly raw recruits drilled and instructed in the whole round of difficult duties which go 4 NINTH REGIMENT, NEW YORK VOLUNTEERS. towards the making of an efficient and reliable soldier. Fortunately there were willing hands and plenty of unselfish desire behind them for all the work there was to do. Imperceptibly, department lines were drawn. The coming young officers of the line keeping with the men, teaching marchings and facings, maintaining order and enforcing camp regulations. Later on the lieutenant-colonel, an accomplished tac- tician who had served in the National Guard of the State, gave efficient instruction in battalion drills. In the meantime the much worried and be- puzzled young individual who was destined to command was working with all his might, try- ing to make some headway with the business part of the enterprise, which included everything involving the expenditure of money from the purchase of a gaiter buckle to the leasing of an island and the building of barracks. Progress, however, was rapid and satisfactory, for May 15th found the regiment comfortably housed in their new barracks at Riker's Island, clothed, equipped, armed, and well provided with all the soldiers necessities allowed by the regulations. Two weeks more of incessant drill and hard work in other directions brought the regiment to a most satisfactory degree of efficiency, so that when the time came to depart for the seat IN TROD UCTION. of war all was in readiness for the move. The first and most difficult stage had been success- fully passed, and already, the coming veterans, with the years of boys, were feeling the conse- quences of their position and appreciating the value of their earnest labor intelligently bestowed. The next stage was the landing at Newport News and the continuation, under the school- ing of Colonel John Wolcott Phelps, of the First Vermont Volunteers, of the character-forming so successfully commenced in New York. The accident of reporting to such an officer as Colonel Phelps was an exceptional piece of good fortune in the history of the regiment. He was a graduate of West Point, had served twenty-three years in the artillery, and beyond all doubt was one of the most accomplished officers ever graduated from that school. As a classical scholar and a master of several mod- ern languages, he was without rival in the regu- lar army; he was also well up in pure mathe- matics and thoroughly well posted in all the various branches of his profession. In addition to his great acquirements he was a thoroughly honest, unselfish, conscientious gentleman, with common sense, and a perfect appreciation of justice, patriotic to the core, and of exceptional capacity for work. This brief tribute, possibly a little out of place, 6 NINTH REGIMENT, NEW YORK VOLUNTEERS. is due to an officer, whose teachings and exam- ple had very much to do with the making of a regiment of efficient soldiers, and is here set forth to make a degree of appreciation due to a noble man. From the landing at Newport News to the end of August, hard work was the order of the day; but before that time instruction had become so effective and discipline so habitual, that the regiment was ready for effective work. In short, within three months from the date of the first muster into the service, it had become a com- pletely serviceable organization for serious busi- ness in the field. If other regiments were not able to accom- plish a like result the fault was with the officers, many of whom were ignorant of the duties de- manded, naturally inefficient, and with no dis- position for hard work. With such material as we have already, good officers can make good regiments in three months, and in the event of pressing necessity in half that time. The exceptional work — out of routine sort — at Newport News, was the purgation, or pushing out, of inefficient officers who had been elected, under State laws by their men, to the company commission grade. This labor was so success- fully performed that within six weeks from the landing, three very worthless captains and twice INTRODUCTION. 7 as many lieutenants had passed on to other fields of usefulness. Soon as their march to- wards the North commenced, the great advan- tage of their absence became apparent. More of this sort of work had to be done before the regiment was completely freed from its shoulder- strapped dead wood, but it was performed grad- ually, not so much again in any one short period of time. Soon after the system of weeding out had been thoroughly inaugurated, a plan regu- lating promotions was set in operation. It re- lated to the line, non-commissioned staff and orderly sergeants. The senior first lieutenant succeeding to the first vacant captaincy, the senior second lieutenant to the first vacancy among the firsts, and the ranking orderly ser- geant taking the place of the second lieutenant promoted. This order of promotion proved to be most efficacious and had very much to do with the making of the regiment. But the labor of establishing it was not like living in a bed of roses fanned by gentle zephyrs. Practical politics pointed a fire in the rear in the way of granting commissions without consulting regimental commanders; not wanted outsiders were frequently commissioned to the regiment, and the inefficients in it were often, out of their turn, jumped over the heads of the more deserv- ing who were entitled to their promotion. An 8 NINTH REGIMENT, NEW YORK VOLUNTEERS. unlooked for incident, of a most disgraceful nature, which occurred in the Autumn of 1861, proved to be the beginning of the end of this unwarranted interference from the authorities at Albany. Early one evening in the month of July, Colonel Phelps sent for the colonel of the Ninth to come to his tent at once, as he wanted to see him in relation to an important emergency. When there he was told there was danger of an emeute among the men of the First New York Volunteers. A certain captain named Barnard had returned from Old Point in a state of in- toxication, and soon after his arrival in camp, without provocation, had wantonly shot and seriously wounded one of the favorite non-com- missioned officers, and the Colonel of the Ninth was ordered to hold his regiment in readiness to put down any uprising that might occur. Although among the men and non-commis- sioned officers, threats were freely and openly made, better counsels prevailed and there was no disturbance. For some reason the criminal was not tried, his victim recovered, and his would-be murderer disappeared. The incident was a day's talk, then forgotten and nothing more was heard of the chief actor, until upon a certain day in the October follow- ing, he appeared at Hatteras Inlet commissioned INTRODUCTION. 9 as a Captain in the Ninth Regiment. His advent proved to be a great regimental surprise that called for prompt and decisive action, which was promptly taken. Neither the would-be Captain or his commission were acknowledged, and he was ordered to return immediately to Old Point Comfort, and the following letter was sent to General Wool : — Fort Clark, Hatteras Inlet, N. C, October 8, 1861. General John E. Wool, Commanding Dept. of Va., Fortress Monroe, Va. Sir : — I do not acknowledge the right of Governor Morgan to appoint and transfer officers, over my head, into my regiment, and I will resist the appointment and transfer of Captain Barnard, even though it cost me my commission. If Captain B. should in the end succeed in obtaining a command in my regiment, I shall then, if not dismissed before, resign my com- mission. With very great respect, I remain your faithful servant, RUSH C. HAWKINS, Col. Comg. Ninth Regt. N. Y. Vols. The gauntlet was thrown, the contest on, and sink or swim, was to be fought to the finish, apparently against enormous odds, by an ob- scure young volunteer colonel, single-handed, who had neither influence or hope of favor, but he was sure of being right at least morally, and had no fear. With the enforced leaving of Barnard, regimental peace was restored and the daily routine went forward about as usual. But peace which blesses was not to endure, for again, October 22nd, it was disturbed by the lO NINTH REGIMENT, NEW YORK VOLUNTEERS. appearance of the same evil spirit. This time it was accompanied by a special order from General Williams, commanding at Hatteras In- let, assigning him to the command of a company in the Ninth Regiment. This time the regi- mental blood was superheated, and the order promptly disobeyed in the most emphatic man- ner. A prompt arrest of the hot-headed Colonel followed, charges preferred, and nine days later he was ordered to proceed to Fortress Monroe for trial by court martial. Soon after his arrival at department head- quarters, he sought and obtained an interview with one of the aides of General Wool, who after reading charges and hearing a full circum- stantial account of the whole affair, from the shooting at Newport News to the arrest, frankly stated that the victim of orders was clearly in the right, and that he would see what could be done with the General. The quoting of an official letter is the better way of stating the measure of his success : — Headquarters Department of Virginia. Fort Monroe, Va., November 5, 1861. Colonel: — The Major General commanding the Department directs me to inform you, that the charges preferred against you by Brig. General Thomas Williams are dismissed, and you are hereby released from arrest. t am gi r> mos t respectfully, Your obedient servant, WM. D. WHIPPLE, Asst. Adjt. Genl. Col. Rush C Hawkins, Ninth Regt. N. Y. Vols., Fortress Monroe, Va. INTRODUCTION. 1 1 Following the release there was a long inter- view with General Wool, who being an officer of long experience and provided with common sense, and knowing how to deal with those, who in defense of right sometimes take the short cut to justice, disregarding regulations and orders, said in effect, that a colonel was respon- sible for the good name and efficiency of his command, and it ought to be a part of his official duty to keep disreputable men from obtaining commissions in his regiment. There was no doubt about which side the moral sup- ported, but orders had been disobeyed, the matter to be settled was an important one and he would order the offending officer to Wash- ington, to present his side of the case to the President for his decision, and also to obtain from the Administration instructions in relation to present occupation of North Carolina coast, and future operations in its inland waters. The stay in Washington lasted eight days ; the matters for consideration involved two Cabinet meetings and several interviews with President Lincoln. The permanent occupation was decided upon and future operations out- lined, but the President would not pass upon Gov. Morgan's power to make appointments of commissioned officers to regiments in the field without consent of colonels commanding. In 12 NINTH REGIMENT, NEW YORK VOLUNTEERS. this particular instance he thought the Colonel was right, but he could not afford to get up a quarrel with the Governor upon whom he most relied to assist in putting down the Rebellion. ''Tell General Wool I leave this matter in his hands for him to arrange with the Governor, so there will be no more trouble." It was never known what General Wool did, but there were never any more appointments without the con- sent of the colonel of the regiment. In the meantime, Barnard had been placed in com- mand of a company, but the men of the whole regiment made his position so unpleasant that he feared bodily harm, resigned, and was never heard of afterwards. It was ascertained that this individual was of Baltimore, where he had kept a very low groggery — a resort for crim- inals — and that generally, he had a most un- savory reputation, coupled with a strong suspicion that he had been engaged in criminal practices. This unpleasant incident has been set forth in extenso for the sole purpose of showing what an earnest officer, intent upon doing his whole duty to the Government, had often to contend with. During the whole contest the demoral- izing political fire from the rear was quite as efficient as the other from the front in retarding progress towards the better military organiza- INTRODUCTION. 13 tion. No doubt the majority of the Governors were patriotic and desired to do their best, but they were politicians who could not stand up against the pressure from without. Their work- ing constituents had to be rewarded, and in the far too numerous regiments from all the States a commissioned officer's place could always be made for a devoted henchman. These were two of the prominent reasons, among the many, why it took years to make an army out of the best possible material, instead of months. During the administration of the War De- partment, by that notoriously corrupt politician, Simon Cameron, of Pennsylvania, one of the faithful from a rural part of that State appeared in Washington pressing his claim for a foreign mission. There being no vacancy among them a fat consular appointment was asked for, these also were all filled, and the worker being disappointed and disconsolate appealed to Cameron for relief. That official sympathized with him, said he appreciated the valuable services performed in the mountain district, and as reward offered the best he had to bestow, and promptly tendered a brigadier general's com- mission, which was declined by the homework- ing patriot because he preferred peace to war, but he had heard that the position of purchasing and contracting quartermaster at Harrisburg, 14 NINTH REGIMENT, NEW YORK VOLUNTEERS. Philadelphia, and other places in Pennsylvania was pleasant and profitable and he would prefer one of those. From the inception of the regimental idea, it had been determined to form it upon purely up to date military basis, and in order to accom- plish the better results in that direction, absolute control by a single head was the one dominant essential, and it was the spirit behind and sup- porting that determination which caused the firm resistance against giving a place in the line to a thoroughly disreputable and unfit character, which if permitted would have been a stain upon the reputation of the whole organization. There were also other important ideals to be developed : manliness, cleanliness, honesty, sobriety and clean-cut individuality. All of these qualities are essential to the make-up of a perfect soldier, no matter what uniform he may wear. Along these lines in many respects, long before the term of service had expired, success was so marked that there were at least fifty men in the ranks who could have commanded the regiment as efficiently as any officer in it. But over and above all these separate qualities there was developed an all prevailing and over- ruling esprit de corps, which both as to conduct and soldierly appearance kept the whole up to a very high level. The regimental spirit was IN TROD UCTION. 1 6 such that its members were always ready for any emergency, fun, frolic, gymnastics, theatri- cals or serious work in the field ; with them disaster never brought despondency. Grief for those who had fallen was the ever present incentive for better work in the future ; but there was never discouragement or want of confidence in capacity to perform whatever duty might be commanded. A Union general who witnessed the demeanor of the survivors a day after the terrible struggle and loss at Antietam, suggested that after the words "Toujours Pret" (the regimental motto), the words " Nil Des- parandum " might appropriately be added. The last day of the march from Antietam to Falmouth was a very muddy one, and by the time the army reached the grounds appointed for going into camp it presented an appearance plainly showing its intimate contact with the fields of Virginia mud. But notwithstanding unfavorable conditions for show purposes, General Sumner then commanding the right Grand Division, ordered an afternoon full dress parade of his whole command. The Ninth growled but went to work with a will, brushing, eradicating mud spots, chalking those on the white duck gaiters, blacking shoes, burnishing arms, etc., etc. The parade was over and the three corps of which it was com- 16 NINTH REGIMENT, NEW YORK VOLUNTEERS. posed dismissed, excepting the Ninth New York, which was ordered to remain ; no one concerned knew what was coming, but there was some trembling in boots, and particularly about the time that General Sumner with full staff rode to opposite the center of the regimental line, saluted the commanding officer and asked " Whose regiment is this?" Upon receiving the answer he took off his hat and in a loud tone of voice said: "This is the first regiment of soldiers I have seen in many years," and then after complimenting in most flattering terms the officers, who at his request had gathered around him, left the field. This was the honest outspoken expression of a brave old soldier who had adorned our army for more than a third of a century of notable service. It is needless in this connection to write it, but it may as well be stated, that this uncon- ditional compliment was an enormous feather, not white, in the caps of the "Boys"; it put them upon their best behavior, and its influence lasted to the end of the term. In the month of May, 1863, while an army, of which the Ninth New York was a part, was de- fending the Union lines at Suffolk, Virginia, during the siege of the rebel forces under Long- street, the Ninety-ninth New York Volunteers crossed the Nansemond River and, unsupported, IN TROD I CTION. \ 7 made an attack upon the intrenched left of the rebel line. The regiment was defeated and driven back with considerable loss, and com- pelled to recross the river, leaving their killed and wounded on the field. Seeing this, the men of the Ninth, who had watched the whole move- ment, involuntarily, and without orders, com- menced to move in the direction of the scene of battle for the purpose of rescuing those who were left behind. This hazardous service, within less than point blank range of the enemy's small arms, was so well performed that it elicited from the Lieutenant Colonel of the Ninety-ninth the following acknowledgment: Headquarters, 99th N. Y. V., Suffolk, Va., May 2, 1863. Colonel Rush C. Hawkins, Commanding 9th. Regt, N. Y. V. Sir : — Allow me to tender to you my most heartfelt gratitude for the kind and gallant promptitude with which some noble fellows of your command volunteered to assist in removing the dead and wounded of the 99th N. Y. V. from the field, under sharp fire, yesterday afternoon. Six dead and forty-three wounded were brought in, not leaving a single man on the field. I am, Sir, very respectfully, Your obedient servant, R. NIXON, Lieut. Col. Comg. 99th N. Y. V. This communication tells its own story, and, save only in one respect, calls for neither ex- planation or comment. The writer, who saw the whole of the unfortunate affair from start to finish, clearly remembers that the most of the rescuing was accomplished by the fearless volun- 18 NINTH REGIMENT, NEW YORK VOLUNTEERS. teers for the perilous work, of the truly "Noble Ninth." This incident, more completely than any other could, illustrates the dominant idea which gov- erned in the formation and education of the regiment. From the first it was intended to ele- vate the man, not at the expense of the soldier, but so rightly to educate him that he would make the better soldier. There were thousands of men " standing around" from other regiments who witnessed the disaster to their companions in arms, but only the men of the Ninth moved forward to the rescue of the fallen. The others were indif- ferent to their sufferings, or too anxious for the preservation of self. These were machine sol- diers, who might have gone to the rescue if they had been ordered. The men who did go went because they could not help themselves. This movement was involuntary ; they had to do what they did, because it was the right thing to do and needed doing. Thus they proved a high development in the right direction of the individual ; while those of the other regiments, who only looked on, showed they were of the machine sort, and could not, or would not, move without orders. The stronger and more elevated the individuality of the individual, the more he respects himself and the stronger his INTRODUCTION. 19 self-reliance ; and that is the most notable qual- ity in the make-up of the American soldier. He can, and will, whenever necessary, move to the front, and stay there without orders from his officers. The onrush of the American sol- dier of his own volition, without orders, was never better illustrated than at Missionary Ridge, when our monumental individualities from the West started out one fine morning for a reconnaissance in force, which ended in their driving Bragg and his army out of their well chosen and strongly entrenched position. The significant present they then made to the army commander was without precedent in our history. This introduction has been written for a dou- ble purpose : to set forth, at least inferentially, that the machine-martinet way is not the better for making, in the shortest time, a good fighting organization out of our average American ma- terial ; but the education upwards of the moral and intellectual that is in him is the only way to do it effectually, in order to get the best out of the man that he has to give. A high order of intelligence is quick to perceive the potential necessity for discipline and value of tactical knowledge, and soon acquires both without being forced. Of course there are exceptions to American regiment rules as well as to all 20 NINTH REGIMENT, NEW YORK VOLUNTEERS. others. There are plenty of men in the world who need driving, but the average American regiment, composed of natives, would be re- garded as especially unfortunate if it should have fifteen per cent, of that sort within its ranks. PERSONAL. In all probability, this is the last time I shall be called upon to write about the regiment that bore my name and that I had the honor to command. Our intimate companionship com- menced thirty-nine years ago to-day, and with those who survive has continued to this time. The stirring memories connected with my association with the brave and true men of that body have ever been my most priceless posses- sion, and I can never forget how much I owe to them, nor shall I ever fail, while life lasts, to appreciate their friendship and loyalty. The tour of duty on this earth is coming to its close, the journey is nearing its end; the parting at the ways is in sight, and the only word to be fittingly said is now forcing its way from throbbing heart to trembling lip ; the pro- nouncing of it I leave to others. RUSH C. HAWKINS. April 19, 1900. CHAPTER I. DERIVATION OF NAME ZOUAVES — ORGANIZATION OF THE NEW YORK ZOUAVES IN i860, WITH COPY OF ORIGINAL PAMPHLET CONTAINING BY-LAWS, COMMITTEES, ETC. THE history of the Ninth New York Volun- teers would be incomplete without a brief account of the " Old Company," with the address and by-laws promulgated for its government. These clearly and vigorously embody the rule of action, strictly enforced, which gave birth to the fine soldierly spirit, which in one winter brought to the organization a degree of soldierly perfection, in drill and demeanor, seldom found in even the oldest military bodies. The or- ganization was, to the core, democratic, and yet an unbending despotism, the despot being the laws and regulations, which were impartially and justly construed. For the enforcement of orders there was no military code to fall back upon. The authority for all action rested solely upon the voluntary consent and loyal approval of the governed. But the whole structural part of the organization 22 NINTH REGIMENT, NEW YORK VOLUNTEERS. rested upon, and was sustained by an all pre- vailing esprit de corps, born of an earnest desire for excelling in all the qualities which go to make up the perfect soldier. When the Rebellion came it found this asso- ciation of earnest boys (for they were all young) ready, patriotic and filled with an earnest desire to be of service to their country, and they carried with them, into the ranks of the regi- ment which they made, the spirit of the parent company ; and the child, upon all occasions when called upon, proved itself a worthy offspring. The name " Zouaves " was first taken from a tribe of Kabyles in Algeria, whose fighting- qualities were for generations noted throughout North Africa. After the French occupied Al- giers, in 1830, a body of these troops was incor- porated into the French Army, with French officers, discipline and arms. In 1837 tne corps was divided into three battalions, and became noted in the many conflicts preceding the final conquest of Algeria. Long before this the native element had been eliminated, and after 1840, the Zouaves were simply European troops uni- formed as Arabs. Because of their peculiarity of dress and the fame as fighters of these Frenchmen, Messrs. Hawkins, Barnett, Parisen, Hammill, Li Baire, Graham, Childs, and others of New York City, ADDRESS OF THE ORGANIZERS. 23 conceived early in i860, the idea of organizing a company which was to be the foundation of a future regiment, to be known as " The New York Zouaves." The idea met with instant approval. Committees were appointed, by-laws drafted, and on the 23d of July, i860, the corps was organized. An address, presented by Mr. Rush C. Hawkins, was adopted and printed, which is herewith reproduced, and which shows in what an original, energetic and business-like manner the corps was formed. ADDRESS. In forming an independent military organiza- tion there are a great number of things of special importance to be taken into considera- tion in order to effect anything approaching perfection. There must of necessity be many absolute and positive rules, which must be car- ried out to the letter. In the first place, equality of social feeling should be inculcated to the most unlimited extent. All should be considered alike and treated alike ; nothing like favoritism should be allowed to creep in ; efficiency and good character should be the only recommendation to preferment, and no one, by reason of a superior social position, should be allowed to 24 NINTH REGIMENT, NEW YORK VOIUNTEERS. usurp the place which merit should occupy. A feeling of brotherhood and kindliness should be cultivated. This is necessary in order to assure harmony. All measures should be adopted with as much unanimity as possible, so that there may be no feeling of dissention. When any measure has been adopted every man should carry it out to the very letter. An inter- est and pride in excelling should ever be upper- most in the minds of all. Nothing like careless- ness in demeanor, while on duty, should ever betray itself. The moment a man becomes careless he ceases to be of use to himself or to others. The idea has been circulated that this organization has been formed in imitation of our Chicago brethren. Such is not the case. We shall not imitate ; we intend to create for ourselves and manage our affairs after our own style of thinking. One most essential point of difference will be that we do not intend to make laws to govern the conduct of members while off duty. We do not believe that it is requisite to place a cordon of laws around men, in order to compel them to become decent and respectable citizens ; but we shall endeavor by example to raise the standard of character so high that each one will feel that if he conducts himself otherwise than as a gentleman, he will be disgraced in his own ADDRESS OF THE ORGANIZERS. 25 good opinion, and in the opinion of his com- rades. We do not believe that any part of mankind was ever changed from blackguards to gentlemen by the force of strict laws. One who will not, of his own accord, conduct himself properly, cannot be improved by the force of legislation. We, therefore, believe it just that no attempt should be made to exercise any control over the members of this corps while off duty. Still we would add that good conduct and character, together with obedience to the in- stincts of truth and the dictates of honor, will detract nothing from the man, nor make the soldier less efficient. We would assert, as a rule, that those who would excel as soldiers must be patient and industrious, quick and willing to obey orders; they must pay strict attention to duty, and be cleanly in person and dress. These qualities, coupled with a desire to learn and be instructed, will, in time, make soldiers fit to command and to be commanded. We should also like to have each man made to feel that a uniform of glaring colors neither makes a man nor a soldier; but that the con- duct, efficiency and bearing of the wearer must decide whether he is a soldier, who knows what he professes, or a fool, wearing uniform, not 26 NINTH REGIMENT, NEW YORK VOLUNTEERS. knowing- why, except that it panders to his vanity, which is satisfied in exciting the ridicule of the sensible, the wonder of small boys, and the admiration of fools. Preamble. The members of this corps, having associated together for the purpose of perfecting themselves in military science, and for the further purpose of forming a military organization similar to the French Zouaves, do agree to abide by the fol- lowing by-laws, which shall constitute their rules of action. BY-LAWS. ARTICLE I. Name. The name of the Corps shall be " The New York Zouaves." ARTICLE II. Uniforms, Equipments, etc. The construction of the uniforms, equipments, and arms shall be similar to that of the French Zouaves. ARTICLE III. Application for Membership, etc. Any male citizen or denizen of the United States, between the ages of eighteen and thirty-five years, possessing a good moral character and good health, who shall be proposed by any member, or shall send in an application in writing, giving two or more references as to character and health, shall be ballotted for at the next regular monthly meeting after the proposition or application has been received; and if all the ballots, except five, are in the affirmative, he shall sign the roll and become a member of the corps. B Y-L A II 'S OF NE IV i 'ORK ZO UA I 'ES. 2 7 ARTICLE IV. Drills. Each squad shall drill twice a week; each company twice a week; and the whole corps as a battalion once in each month, except during the months of July and August. And after the corps is organized into a regiment or battalion there shall be four field days in each year, when the whole corps shall parade for field duty. ARTICLE V. Company Officers, etc. Each company shall consist of one captain, three lieutenants, five sergeants, four corporals, four drummers, and eighty-four privates. ARTICLE VI. Field and Staff Officers. The field officers shall consist of one colonel, one lieutenant-colonel, and one major. The staff shall consist of one adjutant, one quarter- master, and a paymaster. A chaplain and a surgeon may also be attached to the staff of field officers, who shall be elected by a two ■ third vote of all the commissioned officers of the staff and line. ARTICLE VII. The Non-Commission ed Staff. The non-commissioned staff shall consist of a sergeant major, a quartermaster's sergeant, a drum-major, a color sergeant, and two general guides, all of whom shall be appointed by the Committee on Instruction and Lectures, from the rank and file, with the advice of the colonel. ARTICLE VIII. Mustering of Members into Company. No member shall be mustered into a company until he has been in- spected by at least three of the Committee on Instruction and Lectures, and by them pronounced capable of performing all the marchings, facings, manual of arms, and evolutions of the line. ARTICLE IX. Formation of Company and Election of Officers. As soon as one hundred and one members shall have been enrolled and found competent to be formed into a company, they shall then at a regular monthly meeting proceed to elect the commissioned and non- commissioned officers of the company, each of whom shall be elected by a plurality vote, and in like manner shall each successive one hundred and one proceed, until ten companies are formed. 28 NINTH REGIMENT, NEW YORK VOLUNTEERS. When three hundred and three shall have been enrolled and formed into companies, there shall then be an election of a colonel and staff officers, who shall be elected by a plurality vote of the whole corps. ARTICLE X. Formation of Battalion. The formation of the battalion or regiment in order of battle or line shall be the same as that contained in Article First of Title First of "Hardie's Rifle and Light Infantry Tactics." Each company shall be mustered into battalion as soon as formed. ARTICLE XI. Drill. — Tactics Adopted. The drill shall be that of the United States Light Infantry, following as near as possible the exercises and discipline of Hardie, and the bayonet exercise of McClellan, except when these authors come in conflict with the drill of the French Zouaves. Then the latter shall prevail. ARTICLE XII. Fines for Absence from Drills and Parades. The fine for being absent from drill, unless the absentee is excused, shall be fifty cents, and from battalion or company parade, three dollars. Being absent from three successive drills without being ex- cused, shall be considered sufficient cause for expulsion, unless the absentee shall have first obtained leave of absence from the president. ARTICLE XIII. Fines for Deficiency in Uniforms, etc. On full dress company or battalion parades, no person shall be per- mitted in the ranks who is not properly armed, equipped and in full uniform under a penalty of fifty cents. ARTICLE XIV. Conduct of Members in General. While on duty, either at drill or parade, each member shall conduct himself according to the rules of manly and soldierly propriety, always paying strict attention to duty and obeying orders to the best of his ability. No member shall, when on or off duty, with any part of his uniform on, visit any public place, such as bar-rooms, hotels, theatres, libraries, etc., without first obtaining the permission of his commanding officer, under the penalty of five dollars for the first offence, the second offence will be a sufficient cause for expulsion. B } '-LA WS OF NE W ) 'ORK ZOUA VES. 29 On all parades or out-door drills, the corps being dismissed for a short time, no member shall go beyond eighty paces from where the arms were stacked without permission of his commandant, under the penalty of five dollars fine for the first offence, and upon repetition of the offence the member shall be expelled from the corps. ARTICLE XV. Funeral Parades. In case of the death of any member the whole corps shall attend his funeral, wearing the usual military badge of mourning, in full uniform or otherwise, according to the desire of the family of the deceased. ARTICLE XVI. CIVIC DEPARTMENT. Officers. The Civic Department shall consist of a president, vice-president, secretary, and treasurer, each of whom shall be elected on the first Monday of each January for the ensuing year by a majority vote. Meetings. The regular monthly meetings shall be held on the first Monday of each month. Special meetings shall be called by the president, or, in his absence, the vice-president, upon a written application made to him by five members, In case of a call of a special meeting printed or written notices shall be sent to each member of the corps. At all meetings fifteen members shall constitute a quorum. Order of Business. On taking the chair, the president shall call the meeting to order when the business shall proceed in the following order: Calling the roll. Reading the minutes of the last meeting for adoption. Collection of dues and fines. Reports of standing committees. Reports of special committees. Propositions and reading applications for new committees. Electing new members. Unfinished business. New business. Motion to adjourn. Rules of Debate. The rules of debate shall, as near as practicable, confirm to those adopted by the United States House of Representatives. 30 NINTH REGIMENT, NEW YORK VOLUNTEERS. ARTICLE XVII. Standing Committees and Their Duties. There shall be appointed by the president and elected by the corps, on the first Monday of each January, who shall serve for one year from the day of their appointment and election, the following committees, viz. : Finance Committee. A committee of three on finance, to be appointed by the president, whose duty it shall be to audit all accounts, and pass them over to the treasurer for payment. They shall see that the expenditure does not exceed the income, and report at each monthly meeting. Court-Martial Committee. A Court-Martial Committee of seven shall be elected, collectively, by a majority vote, whose duty shall be to hear the excuses of delin- quents, with full power to remit fines and order expulsions. This committee shall report the fines to the treasurer and the expelled members to the president while in the chair, who shall order the secre- tary to erase the names of the expelled members from the roll. ARTICLE XVIII. Duties of the Secretary and Treasurer. The secretary shall be present at each meeting, take down the pro- ceedings iti writing, keep the original roll signed by the members, attend to the printing and sending of notices. The treasurer shall collect the dues and fines, pay all the accounts audited by the Finance Committee, and report at each meeting. ARTICLE XIX. Offences, Consequences for Non- Appearance Before Court Martial, etc. Each instructor of a squad and each commissioned and non-commis- sioned officer of a company shall take note of all offences and report the offenders to the Court Martial Committee, who shall give such offenders reasonable notice to appear before them for trial ; and if such offenders refuse to appear at the time specified, unless detained by absence from the city or by sickness, they shall be expelled; and in all cases where the penalty of expulsion has been incurred, the president shall order the secretary to erase the name of the expelled member from the roll. Sickness, absence from the city, or doing United States or State duty, shall be received as an excuse for non-attendance from drill, meeting, or parade. B Y-LA WS OF NE W YORK ZOUA FES. 3 1 ARTICLE XX. Arrears and Dues. Any member in arrears for fines or dues for two months shall be ex- pelled. The dues shall be twelve dollars per year, payable monthly. ARTICLE XXI. Sickness of Members, Pecuniary Aid, etc. In case of sickness of any member, a committee of two shall be ap- pointed by the president to call upon him and ascertain if such member is in need of assistance, and, in case the committee shall report that he is in need of pecuniary aid, it shall be granted him out of the funds of the corps, to the extent of four dollars per week, exclusive of medical attendance. ARTICLE XXII. Assessments, Alterations of By-Laws. Proposed assessments shall be per capita, and adopted by a majority vote. These by-laws shall not be altered or changed, except by a two- third vote of the whole corps; and not then unless thirty days' previous notice in writing shall have been given of the proposed alteration. ARTICLE XXIII. Until the election of officers one instructor shall be appointed by a majority vote of the corps. A set of rules and regulations to govern the conduct of members while at drill, shall be hereafter adopted by the corps with offences described, and penalties for each offence attached thereto. Civil Officers and Standing Committees. Rush C Hawkins, President (and treasurer, pro tern). Jas. J. Delaney, Vice-President. Henry Barclay, Secretary, pro tem. Committee on Military Instruction and Lectures. Hawkins, Boese, Parisen, Walsh, Copcutt, Macauley, Higginson. Court-Martial Committee. Delaney, Barclay, Graham, Frank, O. Parisen, LeBaire, Tooker. CHAPTER II. ORGANIZATION OF CIVIL CLUB DRILL MASTER SERGT BENZONI — FIRST SHOT OF THE CIVIL WAR FIRING ON FORT SUMTER FIRST OFFER OF NEW YORK TROOPS ORGANIZA- TION OF 9TH N. Y. VOLUNTEERS FIELD OFFICERS CASTLE GARDEN RIKERS IS- LAND SEVERE DRILLS — NEW UNIFORM — INSPECTION BY GEN'L JOHN A. DIX OFF FOR FORTRESS MONROE — PRESENTATION OF FLAGS IN FIFTH AVENUE — ARRIVAL AT NEWPORT NEWS. A SUFFICIENT number of men were soon enrolled and the organization of a civil club, the governing body pro tem, completed. No .military officers were elected, all members for the present being privates. The officers appointed to drill the company to-day took their places in the ranks to-morrow, and observed the same attention to the orders of the newly appointed officers as had been accorded to them. Through the courtesy of the commanding officer at Governors Island, the services of a SERGEANT BENZONI. S3 most thorough and efficient drill sergeant of the regular army were procured. The sergeant acted as general instructor and drill-master. At each drill, he designated the acting captains, lieutenants, sergeants and corporals. This system permitted each member to acquire prac- tice and receive instruction in all grades of an infantry company. In addition to this system of instruction the scheme embraced, on the nights when the regu- lar instructor was not present, the detailing of different members of the company to act as instructors at the regular out or indoor drill. This gave to the youngsters confidence and educated them in the necessary habit of com- mand. No member of the New York Zouaves can ever forget his old drill-master, Sergeant Louis Benzoni, and each can recall the picture of the erect old soldier marching back and forth in front of the line of green recruits, snapping out his orders and directions in his quaint military broken English, doing his facings and going through the manual of arms with such vim, finish, and correctness, that they were more inclined to regard him as a perfect piece of machinery, than mere human flesh and blood. Sergeant Benzoni constantly strove by his exaggerations to make his lessons in pos- 34 NINTH REGIMENT, NEW YORK VOLUNTEERS. tures and movements impressive and valuable to his pupils, and each considering them the requisite of perfection to be attained, earnestly tried to imitate them. He was a consummate manualist, exact and exacting, and as to the school of the company, could handle men as well as he could the musket. He was very much in earnest and would admit of no inattention. The result of his work as shown in the drill and discipline of the regiment which these young men organized and officered at the commencement of the civil war, proved that Sergeant Benzoni, "builded better than he knew." Headquarters were first established at the Mercer House, but later the organization moved to the corner of Fourth and Thompson Streets, where the Judson Memorial Church now stands, and on which historic spot the regiment known as the Ninth New York Volunteers (Hawkins Zouaves) was organized. Washington Parade Ground was across the street from the quarters, and was used by the Zouaves as a drill-ground. Their novel and interesting manoeuvres were eagerly watched by crowds of interested spectators. In this routine work — morning and evening drills be- ing the daily practice — the company continued FIRST SHOT OF THE CIVIL WAR. 35 until the firing on Fort Sumter, April 12, 1861, which is popularly called " the first shot of the war." As a matter of history, it may be interesting to state that in January, 1861, the sole force of the United States Army in Barrancas Barracks, Pensacola Harbor, Florida, was company G, First Artillery, commanded by Captain John H. Winder, with Lieutenants Slemmer and Gil- man. Winder was later brigadier-general in the Confederate service, and well known in con- nection with the military prisons of the South. It was rumored that troops from Alabama and Florida were nearly ready to seize the navy yard and forts, and on the morning of January 8th, Lieutenant Slemmer moved all the powder to the inner magazines of Fort Barrancas, caused all the batteries to be put in working order, and that night, for the first time, placed a sergeant's guard in the fort with the draw-bridge raised. About midnight a party of twenty men came to the fort to take possession, expecting to find it unoccupied as usual. Being challenged, and not answering or halting when ordered, the guard fired upon them, when they turned and ran toward Warrington. The long roll beat, and the company double-quicked to the fort, but too late to capture the enemy. This was the first gun in the war on the Union side. 36 NINTH REGIMENT, NEW YORK VOLUNTEERS. The next morning, January 9th, at 9.30 o'clock the steamer " Star of the West," with two hun- dred troops and supplies for Fort Sumter, was fired upon from a masked battery on Morris Island, Charleston Harbor, and forced to put about and go to sea. At 4.30 o'clock a. M., April 12, 1861, Captain George S. James, commanding the battery at James Island (Fort Johnson) fired a shell from a ten inch mortar at Fort Sumter. It burst about one hundred feet above the fort, and was followed by a general bombardment from all the encircling batteries. The entire North was in a white heat of ra^e and excitement on receipt of this startling news. About noon on the 15th of April the bulletin boards of the daily newspapers announced the call of President Lincoln for seventy-five thou- sand volunteers to assist in putting down the rebellion. Soon after, members of the com- pany — G. A. C. Barnett being the first — com- menced calling upon Mr. Hawkins, the president of the organization, for the purpose of urging immediate action and tender of services. They notified other members, and that night there was a meeting of a majority of the members at the armory. It was brief, lively and patriotic. No speeches were made and none were neces- FIRST OFFER OF NEW YORK' TROOPS. 37 sary. Inside the walls of that ramshackle old building every cubic inch of air was filled with earnest resolve and manly determination to do, and if necessary to die in the cause of their country. It was resolved to commence recruit- ing for a regiment at once, and the president, Hawkins, was authorized to proceed to Albany to make a tender of service, and to obtain permission to raise a regiment. He took the eleven o'clock train that night, and at a few minutes after seven o'clock, the morning of the sixteenth of April, was sitting on the steps of the capitol leading to the executive chamber waiting for the arrival of the Governor, who came to his office a few minutes after. The business in hand was attended to in the most direct manner and no words wasted. The Governor, under existing laws of the State, was not authorized to grant official authority, but gave verbal permission to go ahead. The interview closed by his saying: "Yours is the first tender of services I have had." At the time this matter was not regarded as being of any importance, but since the close of the war many claims about " Firsts " have been submitted, and this has been taken from its slumber in the recesses of memory for the purpose of keeping company with the others. When President Hawkins reached New 38 NINTH REGIMENT, NEW YORK VOLUNTEERS. York upon his return, he found a recruiting office already opened in the company rooms, and the members of the company busily en- gaged in the work of enrolling recruits. Appli- cants presented themselves in such numbers that the success of the movement was assured from the very beginning. The work of organi- zing the regiment was proceeded with at once. More than enough men from the old company enlisted to provide officers for nine companies. The surplus was distributed among the com- panies as non-commissioned officers. The positions and rank of line-officers were decided by mutual agreement among the members of the old company. The field and staff positions, excepting that of colonel, were left open for the present, to be filled later. Mr. Hawkins became colonel, not only by the voice of the company officers, but by virtue of the authority conferred upon him by the Governor. His experience and knowledge of military affairs was not strictly confined to such theories as might be acquired in the ranks of citizen organizations, as he had, while still a youth, during the Mexican War, served a term of enlistment in the United States Cavalry. The experience gained during that period of service was of great assistance to him in the present emergency. ORGANIZATION OF THE NINTH N. V. VOLS. 39 Andrew S. Graham was chosen senior captain, followed in the order named by William G. Barnett, Eugene Li Baire, Otto Parisen, etc. Recruits were enrolled so rapidly that the captains were enabled to select from the large number only those who in their judgment seemed best adapted, physically and mentally, for soldiers. The companies having been organized, and non-commissioned officers appointed, six com- panies were, on April 23, 1861, sworn into the State service, and the remaining four on April 27th. The tenth company, Captain Edward Jardine, was taken into the regiment as a complete or- ganization. The captain had not been a mem- ber of the old company, but had some military experience, having served his time as a militia- man in the 7th Reg. N. G. S. N. Y. The positions of field and staff officers were now to be filled. George F. Betts (a son of Judge Betts) was commissioned lieutenant- colonel. He was a well known New York lawyer, a U. S. Commissioner, and clerk of the U. S. Circuit Court for the Southern District of New York, and had been a field officer in the militia for many years. He was considered an excellent tactician in battalion movements. The position of major was filled by Edgar A. 40 XINTH REGIMENT, NEW YORK VOLUNTEERS. Kimball, a native of Vermont, who at that time occupied a position in the N. Y. Custom House. He was a veteran of the Mexican War, wherein he had greatly distinguished himself, having been brevetted for gallant and meritorious con- duct at Contreras and Cherubusco. Another Mexican veteran, James W. Evans, was commissioned adjutant. The surgeon chosen was George H. Hum- phreys who, while yet a medical student, had served with the British Army during the Crimean War, and had further served with the French Army in the war with Austria. The assistant surgeon, Dr. J. P. P. White, was also appointed at this time. He proved to be an excellent surgeon and a most thorough, painstaking, conscientious and humane gentle- man. These gentlemen were chosen from among a number of competitors for the various positions named, after careful deliberation and investiga- tion by Colonel Hawkins, as to fitness, character, antecedents, etc. Their records during the war showed the wisdom of the choice. On May 4, 1861, the entire regiment was sworn into the service of the United States by Captain Hayman of the regular army, and was officially designated as 9th New York Volunteer Infantry. CASTLE GARDEN. 41 Up to this time much dissatisfaction and in- convenience had been experienced by the regi- ment from unsuitable quarters. The corner of Fourth and Thompson Streets, Center Market, Astor's Riding Ring, on Lafayette Place, and Castle Garden, were successively assigned it for that purpose, the latter being the only place that was at all suitable. Previous to having these quarters assigned there was no permanent location ; the company rooms at Fourth and Thompson Streets were not large enough to accommodate the regiment and the men were compelled to return to their homes each night. Consequently there had been little if any oppor- tunity for drill. For many years previous to 1861, Castle Garden had been used as a public theatre, where operas, concerts and entertainments of like character were given. It was here that Jenny Lind first sang in public before starting on her famous American tour, under the man- agement of P. T. Barnum. Just previous to the breaking out of the war the building had been acquired by the State of New York and used as an emigrant depot, but no alterations had been made in the interior. The State assigned the building to the New York Zouaves as quarters, and on the following Sunday — for the first time since the days of the Revolution when it was a government fortification — religious services were 42 XI NTH REGIMENT, NEW YORK VOLUNTEERS. held in the place by the chaplain of the regi- ment, Rev. T. W. Conway, who later became Superintendent of Freedmen in the Department of the South. The various companies were assigned to different parts of the auditorium ; and thus Castle Garden became the home and a wooden theatre bench became the bed of the new soldiers. While the regiment had not yet received its arms, a sufficient number of muskets were procured to arm the guard. Here there was an opportunity to settle down to the work of properly forming the regiment. Details were regularly made for guard duty ; the ceremony of guard mount was performed after a fashion ; sentries, after being carefully instructed in their duties, were posted at various points, and while a great deal of liberty was allowed and passes freely given, the men began to feel some of the restraints of military life. Even at this early period of service indivi- dual traits began to be noticeable among the boys. The painstaking could be easily distinguished from the careless, and the public- spirited from the selfish. A case in illustra- tion is the following: Two members of Com- pany D who believed in keeping their company quarters clean and in a condition always ready for inspection, and who at the same time de- "SETTING UP" THE RECRUITS. 43 sired to set an example for the others in the company, regularly swept, cleaned and dusted the company benches and cushions in the " dress circle," snaking and folding the blankets of many of their comrades, who would as regularly " shake " themselves free from their blankets and stalk haughtily away to more interesting and less menial occupations. This continued for some days until the junior member of the quarters-cleaning firm remarked that he thought " it time for a change." " Never mind," quoth the senior member, " before long they will be shaking and cleaning for us." Prophetic words ! Before long the senior member of the firm be- came First Sergeant Horner, and proceeded to shake and dust Company D in a way that opened its eyes. A few months later the junior member also got his stripes, and Corporal Sear- ing found it his turn to insist on thorough police work by the former laggards. The task of "setting up" and drilling was now begun in earnest. The companies were divided into squads and each, under the com- mand of an officer, was carefully instructed in the preliminaries of military drill. The position of the soldier, the facings and marchings were gone over in the minutest detail, and in a very few days the improvement in the bearing and carriage of the men was especially noticeable. 44 NINTH REGIMENT, NEW YORK VOLUNTEERS. Sentries were stationed at the gates and in- structed to admit only members of the regi- ment, and so attentive were the men to their duties that, on their departure for Riker's Island, no one would have recognized them as the green recruits of three weeks ago. On May 15 the regiment left Castle Garden for Riker's Island, where commodious barracks had recently been erected. Large crowds had assembled at the Battery, and amidst their deaf- ening cheers the " Ninth" marched aboard the transport. The 2d New York were in line at the water's edge, their drum corps beating a salute in re- sponse to that of the Ninth, while Captain Mott's battery of two 1 2-pounder howitzers gave a fare- well salute of eleven rounds, and the greatest enthusiasm continued until the Zouaves disap- peared from view up the East River. Arriving at their destination about noon of the same day, the regiment disembarked and found the new quarters all that could be desired for their accommodation. They at once entered upon the long and tedious daily drills, both officers and men settling down seriously to the difficult task of creating a regi- ment which would be equal to the occasion when called upon in the day of trial. It is deliber- ately and positively asserted that this organi- SEVERE DRILLS. 45 zation was at this time unique in its freedom from the serio-comic experiences of nearly all new regiments resulting from lack of knowledge of military matters among officers and men. The ludicrous effect of officers, totally ignorant of the first rudiments of military tactics, endeavor- ing to teach the manual to men as uninformed as themselves, was never seen at any time in the "Ninth." The officers thoroughly understood the theory and practice of the school of the sol- dier and of the company, and were also well posted in battalion movements. In teaching the men they started at the beginning and not in the middle. The first instructions were in the position of a soldier. They were directed how to stand correctly, and informed why a cer- tain posture and position was necessary. The drill in positions, facings and marching were repeated twice each day without arms, and con- tinued daily until the men had acquired perfect confidence and freedom from hesitation and in- decision. Muskets were then distributed and the same care exercised in the instruction of the manual of arms. The men were advanced step by step. The reason why each movement should be performed strictly according to the manual was explained, and their minds were impressed with the fact that such movements could be performed with more rapidity, and the 46 NINTH REGIMENT, NEW YORK VOLUNTEERS. arms handled with more efficiency by strictly observing the instructions given. The result of this careful drilling by officers who understood what they were teaching was soon shown by the soldierly appearance the regiment presented on evening parade, and when it marched down Broadway on the 5th of June, under orders for Fortress Monroe, it is safe to state, and without fear of contradiction, that for accuracy in the manual, general knowl- edge of drill, and steadiness in marching, it sur- passed any regiment of citizen soldiers that had ever marched down that famous thoroughfare. When the task of raising and equipping the regiment had only just begun the Colonel feared that the State authorities would not be reliable in relation to the important essentials involved in the great emergency. So without authority or consultation he took the liberty and responsibility of making contracts for every item — save blankets, overcoats and arms — neces- sary to the launching of a regiment, and when all contracts were fulfilled, the regiment clothed and equipped, the cost per man was about $21.50, instead of about double that amount paid by the State for "shoddy" uniforms alone, which commenced to fall to pieces as soon as the wearers reached the field. The uniforms supplied to the regiment by private contract NEW UNIFORMS. 47 were made of the best material obtainable at the time, and lasted in fairly good condition through the whole of the first summer in the field. While here at Riker's Island the uniforms were issued to the regiment. They were of what is com- monly called the Zouave pattern : close, easy- fitting, permitting full action of body and arms, artistic in form and picturesque, but of modest tone; of army blue, the trousers slightly full, plaited at the waist, with a magenta braid down the outer seam ; jacket and vest with magenta trimmings, a sash of the same color of woolen material, wide enough to cover the stomach and bowels of the wearer ; white leggings, and red fez with a blue tassel. It was totally different from the uniforms issued by the United States authorities, and no nattier one was worn by any body of troops in the service. Previous to the departure of the regiment the news agents of New York City, with whom Major Kimball had formerly been associated in a business way, presented him with a handsome sword. Later a magnificent pair of epaulettes came from friends in the custom house, as a token of their esteem for his faithfulness, and for his patriotism to his country. The entire regiment had been vaccinated by the surgeons, and its sanitary condition pro- nounced most satisfactory. Being fully armed 48 NINTH REGIMENT, NEW YORK VOLUNTEERS. and equipped an inspection and review was ordered. On the first day of June Major-General John A. Dix, commanding the department, accom- panied by Colonel Keyes of the regular service, reviewed the regiment after it had executed an intricate battalion drill. It was drawn up in line of battle, and after dress parade, was inspected by the General, who, as he passed up and down the line, expressed his satisfaction in most flattering terms. He in- formed Colonel Hawkins that he was extremely gratified with the completeness of all details, and at the review after inspection expressed himself as delighted at the perfection in march- ing displayed by the men, and their proficiency in drill, knowing what a short time their brief stay in camp had allowed for instruction. The General was proud that such a fine body of young men had been assigned to his command, and said he hoped and believed that the regi- ment would one day distinguish itself. On June ist the Colonel issued an order which permitted friends of the regiment to visit " Camp Hawkins," as the camp on the island was designated, and on the following Sunday a large number of friends, relatives and others availed themselves of the privilege. The camp presented a gala appearance ; the IN CAMP ON PIKER'S ISLAND. 49 barracks and company streets being decorated with patriotic designs in evergreens, and gay festoons of red, white and blue, each company having its peculiar novelty. Company A was presented with a national flag by Sgt. George W. Debevoise, while Com- panies C, D and G each received a set of colors from friends of the respective companies, the ceremonies taking place on the parade ground, and being much enjoyed by the host of inter- ested spectators. The month passed on Rikers Island was — if the continuous and severe drills are left out of consideration — one continuous picnic. Each company vied in its endeavor to excel its neigh- bor in the tasteful decorations of the company streets. There were always numerous visitors in the afternoons, and on stated occasions when general visiting was permitted, the camp was crowded with friends and relatives of both sexes, who loudly applauded the drilling on the parade ground. The Zouaves were conscious of the fact that they were the cynosure of all eyes, and were looked upon as real soldiers ; they were in a military camp and presumed they were living the lives of genuine soldiers. Their mothers, sisters, and young women friends were sympathetic and inclined to coddle and pet these poor boys, who were undergoing such 50 NINTH REGIMENT, NEW YORK VOLUNTEERS. hardships and privations from pure patriotism and for their country's good ; and they, " the beggars," accepted all this as their due, and tried to make themselves believe that they were in some degrees heroes, whereas they were really having an enjoyable time. Comfortably housed, with an abundance of good food, with- out the trouble of preparing it, they were nearly as well off as a modern militia regiment in a State camp. Orders finally came for the Ninth to proceed to Fortress Monroe, and at noon on Wednes- day, June 5th, the regiment left Riker's Island, aboard a steamer, and sailed for New York. Landing at the foot of East 30th Street, after much delay in effecting their alignments — due to the crowd which had gathered to greet them — the regiment marched to the residence of Mr. A. W. Griswold, where it was halted, formed in line, and brought to attention. Rev. Gardiner Spring came forward with a beautiful stand of colors, and made the following remarks : " Colonel Hawkins, Officers and Soldiers of the Ninth Regiment, New York Volunteers — I have been requested by Mrs. Griswold, now here, to present to you this splendid emblem of our nationality, and I desire to do this with a few introductory remarks. I, who for over fifty years, have been enlisted under the banner of the Prince of Peace, find myself exactly in such a novel position as yourselves, who have enlisted in the noble cause of defending your country against a band of outlaws, who defying all laws of righteousness, are striving to overthrow this, the happiest government on earth. "Secession dates back as far as the days when the ten tribes of FLAG PRESENTATION. 51 Israel were lost, and even further, for the devil himself was a seces- sionist. " I look upon this vile controversy as the most wicked ever gotten up by man. I give you my blessing. The blessings and prayers of the whole civilized world are with you. I pledge myself that the prayers and blessings of the Brick Church shall not be wanting. " May the God of battles be with you, and in the hour of danger hover over you. Accompanying this flag is a letter from Mrs. Griswold, which I will now read for you, as follows: " ' No. 381 Fifth Avenue, June 5th, 1861. Colonel Hawkins, Commandant of the Ninth Regiment, New York Volunteers. Colonel, — I have the honor to present to you for your gallant regi- ment of Zouaves these colors. The Union of which this flag is the emblem was established by our fathers. Its cost was the price of blood. To their children they have confided the trust of guarding and upholding it. What obligation can be more sacredly binding upon them ? For more than three-fourths of a century this ensign has commanded the respect of every people, on land and sea, and wherever civilization is known, even penetrating the dark corners of the earth, carrying light and freedom with it. While thirty millions of people under its folds were enjoying life, liberty and happiness, as no other people ever did, foul traitors have raised their fratricidal hands against it. The Government has called upon its loyal citizens to come to its defense. The alacrity and zeal with which you and others have responded to that call awaken in our hearts the liveliest emotions and gratitude, It is beyond our province to follow this standard to the battle field; but we can and will follow with our prayers and blessings those who bear it, imploring Him who holds in his hands the destiny of nations to protect and preserve those who stand by their country's flag in its hour of peril; and that He will speedily restore reason and loyalty to that rash and misguided people who have assailed it. Accept for your- self, and your noble regiment of Zouaves, my kind wishes. Mary Adelaide Griswold,'" In a voice tremulous with emotion, Colonel Hawkins in a few appropriate words thanked Mrs. Griswold for the flag, and solemnly prom- ised that he and his regiment would protect it with their lives if necessary to save it from S2 NINTH REGIMENT, NEW YORK VOLUNTEERS. humiliation or surrender, and that it should return with them unblemished. The color-bearer then received the flag and it was exhibited to the Zouaves. It was of silk, handsomely mounted, and was a most beautiful as well as expensive token. On the lance surmounting the staff was a square plate of silver, upon which was engraved, Presented by Mrs. Alma W. Griswold, TO THE Ninth Regiment New York Volunteers, June 5TH, 1861. Lexington, April 19TH, 1776. Baltimore, April icjth, 1S61. MEMORIA IN STERNA. The regiment then wheeled into column and marched to the residence of Mrs. William B. Moffat, where again swinging into line, another standard was presented. The Rev. Dr. Wiley, of Christ Church, repre- sented Mrs. Moffat, and in a touching address, delivered the flag into the custody of Colonel Hawkins, who, in accepting it, in well-chosen and patriotic language, again pledged himself and the Zouaves to defend the colors with their lives if necessary, and to bring them back un- tainted by dishonor. The standard was six feet by eight, made of OFF FOR THE FRONT. S3 double silk of solid red. Great taste was dis- played in its design. Upon the centre was this inscription : Ninth Regiment, New York Volunteers. Toiijours Pret. This motto has since become the watchword of the Zouaves, and true to its test they were found to be "Always Ready." Once more the regiment wheeled into column and resumed the march down the avenue to Broadway. The sidewalks along the entire route were packed with citizens, who, from Union Square to the Battery, gave them an ovation which will never be forgotten, and caused each man to mentally resolve that he would never bring disgrace on the beautiful standards or on the city which gave him so proud a farewell. Arriving at Pier 4, North River, the regiment experienced the greatest difficulty in forcing its way through the masses of people there gath- ered. Colonel Hawkins deemed it unsafe to proceed to sea in what he considered the crowded condition of the " Marion," the vessel supplied by the Quartermaster's Department for the transportation of the regiment, and after some hours of delay in unwinding red tape the "George Peabody"was provided as addi- 54 NINTH REGIMENT, NEW YORK VOLUNTEERS. tional transportation. The two vessels sailed on the 6th, but it was not until the 8th of the month that they arrived at Fortress Monroe. Colonel Hawkins upon reporting to the Com- manding General there was ordered to proceed to Newport News, where the regiment arrived in due course, disembarked, and stacking arms, awaited the arrival of their tents and camp equipage before establishing a regular camp. CHAPTER III. ADVANCE ON BIG BETHEL THE FIRST BATTLE OF THE WAR — GENERAL CARR'S ACCOUNT OF BATTLE OF BIG BETHEL ACCOUNT OF MAJOR WINTHROPS DEATH BY A SOUTH- ERNER — FORCES ENGAGED AND LOSSES OF BOTH SIDES ZOUAVES TO THE FRONT COLONEL PHELPS AND HIS PECULIARITIES — RIGHT GENERAL GUIDE HERBERT AND HIS GRAVE ERROR — TWO ZOUAVES ATTEMPT TO GET A " PULL " WITH COLONEL PHELPS. UPON the arrival of the camp equipage, tents were pitched in a wheat field, in which the grain was almost ready for the sickle. This was trampled down to make place for the tents, which the men, after considerable difficulty, being only amateurs in the business, succeeded in erecting, and established their camp after a fashion. On the day following, Sunday, June 9th, a beautiful summer day, tents were struck and camp was moved to a point west of the breastworks and on a line with them and near the brink of the high wooded bank overlooking the James river. The camp was here laid out S6 NINTH REGIMENT, NEW YORK VOLUNTEERS. in approved regulation style. It was an ideal location. There was considerable shade from the trees bordering the steep bank of the river, abundance of good water near at hand, and the ground smooth and with slope enough to secure good drainage. The next day was extremely hot and sultry. It was a memorable one in the annals of the 'war, for on that day occurred the first engage- ment in the Rebellion which deserved to be called a battle, and which proved disastrous to the Union side. At a point nine miles from Fortress Monroe, on the road leading from Hampton to York- town, lay the little town of Bethel, probably taking its name from the church located there. It was known that the enemy had intrenched and was holding the road at this point ; upon learning which Gen. B. F. Butler decided to attack him there. A creek crossed the road near the church. A bridge over this creek was commanded by a fortification of the enemy, held by Col. D. H. Hill, of North Carolina (later Lieutenant-General C. S. A.) and 500 men. A personal reconnoissance of the topography of the country had been made by Major Theodore Winthrop, of General Butler's staff, and the following memorandum for the attacking move- ment was drawn up. FIRST BATTLE OF THE REBELLION. 57 *" A regiment or battalion to march from Newport News, and a regi- ment to march from Camp Hamilton (Duryea's). Each will be sup- ported by sufficient reserves under arms in camp, and with advanced guards out on the road of march. " Duryea to push out two picket posts at 10 p.m. ; one two and a half miles beyond Hampton, on the county road, but not so far as to alarm the enemy. This is important. Second picket half as far as the first. Both pickets to keep as much out of sight as possible. No one whatever to be allowed to pass out through the lines. Persons to be allowed to pass inward toward Hampton, unless it appears that they intend to go round about and dodge through to the front. "At 12— midnight— Colonel Duryea will march his regiment, with sufficient ammunition, on the county road toward Little Bethel. Scows will be provided to ferry them across Hampton Creek. March to be rapid, but not hurried. A howitzer with canister and shrapnel to go. A wagon with planks and material to repair the Newmarket bridge. Duryea to have the two hundred rifles; he will pick the men to whom to entrust them. Rocket to be thrown up from Newport News. Notify Commodore Prendergrast of this to prevent general alarm. " Newport News movement to be made somewhat later, as the dis- tance is less. " If we find the enemy and surprise them, men will fire one volley, if desirable, not reload, and go ahead with the bayonet. As the attack is to be by night or dusk of morning, and in two detachments, our people should have some token— say a white rag or dirty white rag on the left arm. ' ' Perhaps the detachments who are to do the job should be smaller than a regiment— three hundred or five hundred— as the right and left of the attack would be more easily handled. If we bag the Little Bethel men, push on to Big Bethel, or blow up, if brick. To protect our rear —in case we take the field-pieces, and the enemy should march his main body (if he has any) to recover them— it would be well to have a squad of competent artillerists, regular or other, to handle the captured guns on the retirement of our main body; also spikes to spike them, if retaken. George Scott to have a shooting iron. "Perhaps Duryea's men would be awkward with a new arm in a night or early dawn attack, where there will be little marksman duty to perform. " Most of the work will be done with the bayonet, and they are al- ready handy with the old ones." Butler goes on to say that he could not go with the command himself, and selected his *From Butler's Book, page 267. 58 NINTH REGIMENT, NEW YORK VOLUNTEERS. next officer in rank, General Pierce, of Massa- chusetts. It was his desire to place Colonel Phelps in command, as the more competent officer, but unfortunately there were one or two colonels outranking Phelps, who were no more qualified than Pierce, and he did not like to do these officers an apparent injustice, and besides did not think the enterprise at all difficult with six of his men to one of the enemy. As this was the first engagement of the war it may be interesting to give a condensed account of the operations from an article published in the Century Magazine, from the pen of the late Gen. Joseph B. Carr: "June 10, 1 86 1, was the disastrous fight at Big Bethel. Sunday noon, June 9th, General Ebenezer W. Pierce was ordered to Butler's headquarters and shown a plan of attack on both Little and Big Bethel. Minute directions were given for conducting the attack, and Pierce assigned to command. March began at mid- night, June 9th. Pierce was to lead one column from Camp Hamilton to a point near Little Bethel, where the column from Newport News was to meet him, and together they were to surprise both Bethels. The troops were the 1st, 2nd, 3rd, 5th, and 7th New York, de- tachments from the 4th Massachusetts and 1st Vermont, and a detachment from the United AD VANCE ON BIG BE THEL . 5 9 States Regular Artillery (n men) with two field-pieces, under command of Lieutenant Greble. We had, I think, not less than 3,500 men. The watchword, ' Boston,' was to be shouted when unrecognized troops should ap- proach, but Colonel Bendix, of the 7th New York, did not receive information on this point. The troops were approaching the point of meeting, and some had gone to the rear of Little Bethel, when Townsend's (3rd New York) and Bendix's troops approached each other — a thick wood having intervened for part of the march. Townsend's men wore gray uniforms, and Bendix supposing them to be the enemy, opened fire with musketry and one piece of artillery. The watchword was shouted but Bendix, being ignorant of its meaning, continued firing. Town- send retreated a short distance and the error was then discovered. Duryea (5th New York) and Washburn (1st Vermont) were in advance, and hearing the firing supposed the enemy were in their rear, and at once fell back. The firing had aroused the enemy, and they pre- pared for defence so that surprise was out of the question. At this time Pierce sent for aid, and the 1st and 2nd New York, under Colonels Allen and Carr, hurried forward ; the latter to await orders at Newmarket bridge. "Advancing through Little Bethel, which was 60 NINTH REGIMENT, NEW YORK VOLUNTEERS. evacuated, the troops under Pierce found the Confederates occupying a strong position near Big Bethel, with earthworks covering the bridge which crossed a stream running in front of their position. Col. John B. Magruder, was in command here with three or four hundred men and about five guns. Duryea moved up the road on the left of the woods and the fight opened by the discharge of a Parrott gun in the Confederate works. "Greble and his two guns took position on the road with Bendix's regiment and three com- panies of Massachusetts troops. Duryea went through the orchard and cornfield; Townsend on his right and rear. The Confederate fire was harmless at first, but when the range was found, our troops sought the shelter of the woods, after a vain attempt to drive the enemy from his works. "A short time after they sought shelter, about 1 1 a. m., I arrived with my regiment — a ten-mile march through the fearful heat and dragging a gun by hand having delayed us since our start at 7 a.m. "We were surprised and puzzled at the condi- tion of the troops. "For at least one mile from the scene of action the officers and men were scattered, singly and in groups, without form or organization, looking RE TREA T. BE A TH OF GREBL E. 6 1 far more like men enjoying a huge picnic than soldiers awaiting battle. "I reported to Pierce, who consented to give me support for a charge on the Confederate works. Townsend promptly volunteered to support me with his regiment, and started to make the necessary preparations. " Placing my command on the right and left of the road, I was making ready for the charge when a message came from General Pierce, stating that after consultation with his colonels (Butler says all of whom but Duryea voted to retire) he found that troops could not be formed to make the charge effective, and that during the consultation an order had been received from General Butler, ordering a retreat, and I was commanded to cover the retreat about to com- mence. The pursuit made by the Confederates was easily checked by the 2nd New York, and the men reached camp without further mishaps. The only firing occurring after 12 o'clock on that day was from the gun brought up by my men, and in command of Lieutenant Greble. "About one dozen shots had been fired when Greble was killed. "The gun was abandoned on the field, and Greble's body was left beside it. I called for volunteers to rescue the gun, and Captain Wil- son and his company, of my regiment, re- 62 NINTH REGIMENT, NEW YORK VOLUNTEERS. sponded, and, in the face of the enemy, gallantly rescued the gun, bringing it in with Greble's body lying on it. " Major Winthrop's death during the early part of this engagement was a notable event. Though unattached to any regiment, he had vol- unteered for the expedition, and was killed while far in advance of the troops and within one hundred yards of the enemy. Butler arrived at Hampton Creek to see the men coming in, but saw no part of the fight." J. Belloore of Richmond wrote to the editors of the Century Magazine: "Major Winthrop headed a force intending to turn our left flank. On our left was a slight earthwork. About 75 yards in front of this was a rail fence. Our attention was called by cheer- ing to his advance. Looking up, we saw the Major and two privates on the fence; his sword was drawn, and he was calling on his troops to follow him. Our first volley killed these three ; those following being protected by the peculiar formation of the ground were not injured, but upon the fall of their leader beat a precipitate retreat. "I was among the first to reach these men. All were dead, having been instantly killed. Major Winthrop was shot in the breast, and the others in the head. About ten days after, a flag FORCES ENGAGED— LOSSES. 63 of truce came up asking for Winthrop's body. Having assisted in burying him I was sent with the party to find the body which was given to his friends." The Union forces engaged were: ist New York Vols., Colonel William H. Allen; 2nd New York Vols., Colonel Joseph B. Carr; 3rd New York Vols., Colonel Frederick Townsend ; 7th New York Vols., Colonel John E. Bendix ; 4th Massachusetts Vols., five companies, Major H. O. Whitlemore; ist Vermont Vols., five companies, Lieut.-Colonel Peter T. Washburn ; Regular Artillery (4 guns), Lieut. John T. Greble. Confederate forces were: ist North Carolina Vols., Colonel Daniel H. Hill ; 3rd Virginia Vols., detachment, Lieut.-Colonel William D. Stuart; Virginia Cavalry Battalion, Maior E. B. Montague; Virginia Howitzer Battalion, Major George W. Randolph. Union loss, 18 killed, 53 wounded, 5 missing; total, 76. Confederate loss, 1 killed, 7 wounded; total, 8. General Pierce in his report gave the number of casualties from Bendix's fire : 2 mortally wounded, 3 dangerously, 4 officers, 12 privates slightly; total, 21. Magruder's report gives his force as 1,400 in all with 1,200 engaged. When messengers were sent to Newport News for reinforcements, Colonel Phelps 64 NINTH REGIMENT, NEW YORK VOLUNTEERS. issued the necessary orders, and Colonel Haw- kins, with Companies A, B and G of the "Ninth," at once hastened to Little Bethel, followed later by other companies of the regiment. These detachments arrived on the field with- in a short time of each other, and just as the engagement had ended in a disastrous manner to our forces. In obedience to orders the Zouaves remained on the ground until all retreating bodies of troops had marched passed them, when Colonel Hawkins sent out small detachments, with orders to thoroughly search the neighborhood, drive in all stragglers, and assist worn out and broken down soldiers into our lines. This duty was energetically performed, and the " Ninth " acting as rear guard, covered the retreat of the tired and dispirited forces. After a march of twenty-four Virginia miles, over dry and parched roads, amidst clouds of dust so thick that a comrade's features could not be discerned ten feet distant, the regiment reached its old camp in not exactly the freshest or most presentable condition. From this date onward the time was passed in drills, scouting duty, picket, guard and kin- dred duties ; the boys finding some little oppor- tunity for recreation, but beginning to realize that the life of a soldier was by no means a continuous picnic. THE FIRST BRIGADIER. 65 Colonel Phelps commanded the post of New- port News; he was Colonel of the First Vermont Vols., but soon was promoted Brigadier-Gen- eral. He was a resigned regular army officer. In personal appearance he was tall and thin, and to the men of the regiment — who were all young — seemed quite aged. He was not over particular about his dress, was rather democra- tic in manner, but a strict disciplinarian. He feared no loss of dignity from being brought in close contact with his subordinates; was a thorough soldier, full of dry witticisms and blunt speeches, with considerable biting, yet humor- ous sarcasm. It is stated that when Colonel Hawkins first reported to him the regiment's arrival, he in- quired in his high pitched voice and queer Yan- kee drawl : "Well, Colonel, what do you intend to do with these schoolboys?" Phelps was not long in discovering that there was more in "these schoolboys" than he suspected; for their proficiency in drill and soldierly conduct pleased him, and he very soon spoke habitually of the regiment as his "Little Zouaves." There were, however, no favors granted or expected. He kept the regiment at work constantly. In addi- tion to the regular drills, considerable recon- noitering was deemed necessary, and a large share of this duty fell to the lot of the "Ninth." 66 NINTH REGIMENT. NEW YORK VOLUNTEERS. Once or twice each week some one of the com- panies was sent on a reconnaissance, which famil- iarized both officers and men with actual field duty and taught them self-reliance. The General was soon christened " Daddy Phelps" by the enlisted men. He was quite odd in his manners, but everybody liked him and had entire confidence in his judgment and ability. His queer sayings were a source of continuous amusement in camp, but when he became better understood his stinging satire was dreaded by all. He frequently set aside all conventionalities and managed affairs in a way peculiarly his own. On one occasion at a brigade drill, when the entire force of the post was in line — six or seven regiments — a somewhat intricate movement was about to be performed. The " Ninth " was on the left of the brigade and was the directing regiment, and the individual whose duty it was to initiate the movement was the right general-guide of that regiment, Sergeant Herbert, of Company B, who was rather short in stature and somewhat stout. After the Gen- eral had carefully explained the mode of per- forming the evolution he gave the order and command " March." Herbert, whose wits had been wool-gathering, or who had been in a " brown-study " when the order was given, THE SERGEANT'S REPRIMAND. 67 failed to move, and as a consequence the regi- ment " stood fast " while all the other regiments moved off. For an instant the General seemed paralyzed with astonishment; the appearance of the tall old man on the little sorrel horse, with the storm of his intense indignation gathering on his face may be imagined ; then leaning for- ward with an arm outstretched toward the offending sergeant, and each word ejaculated with such intensity as apparently to lift him clear from the saddle, he shouted : " Move ! Move ! For God's sake, you little bandy-legged man, Move ! " Herbert moved. There was no opportunity for a laugh then ; it had to be deferred until after drill, when a chorus of five hundred voices howled in unison, " Move ! Move ! for God's sake, you little bandy-legged man, move!" This incident ruined Herbert ; though a good soldier, and later a lieutenant in the regiment, he never could live it down. After serving- through the entire term he was mustered out with the regiment, then disappeared, and has not since been seen. He dared not face the ridicule of the " boys." Another peculiar phase of Phelps' character was shown in the manner he treated an attempt to " get solid with the General." While the regiment was at Newport News 68 NINTH REGIMENT, NEW YORK VOLUNTEERS. the whole country in that vicinity had been de- serted by the inhabitants. They evidently were fearful of the soldiers and had departed hur- riedly, in most instances leaving all household property behind them. Everything in the shape of furniture, cooking utensils, etc., was left in the homes of the people entirely unpro- tected. In order to check vandalism the Gen- eral had issued strict orders against foramn£. Two of Company As boys, who, like most of the others in the regiment were from New York City, evidently imagined that military orders were like city ordinances, only to be observed by those who had no " pull." They proceeded at once to get their " pull " by cooking to a turn a foraged turkey, and nicely arranging it on a foraged china platter, with which they marched up to headquarters to present it to the General. At the moment he was not present, but the platter and contents were received by the orderly, who was strictly enjoined to inform the General whence it came. When the Gen- eral returned and his eye fell on the well- cooked turkey and the china platter, he ex- claimed, "Well! Well! How nice! That is really thoughtful ! Orderly, where did that come from ? " Saluting, the orderly replied : " Two men of Company A, of the Zouaves, sent it to you with their compliments, Sir." " My, "WORKING A PULL " WITH THE "OLD MAN." 69 My! " said the General, " how very kind and thoughtful. Orderly, go with the corporal of the guard, point out the men, and have them brought here." The men were very much elated when told the General desired to see them, and started with alacrity, doubtless think- ing the interview would result in an invitation to dine with the " old man." What actually occurred was about as follows : Corporal — "General, these are the men the orderly said you wanted." General (to men) — " Did you bring these things here ? " Men (in chorus, promptly) — " Yes, sir." General — " That's the way you obey my orders against foraging, is it ? Corporal, take them to the guard-house ! " The two crestfallen Zouaves and the grinning corporal marched away, and history does not record whether the General ate the turkey or not. This lesson may not have stopped foraging in the Ninth Regiment but it effectually ended all attempts to make General Phelps an acces- sory. CHAPTER IV. RECONNAISSANCE BY COMPANIES A AND F SKIRMISH WITH THE ENEMY — TROUBLE ABOUT THE RELATIVE RANK OF OFFICERS — DECIDED BY DRAWING LOTS — GENERAL BUTLER SUPERSEDED BY GENERAL WOOL — SPECIAL ORDER FOR EXPEDITION TO HAT- TERAS INLET THREE COMPANIES OF THE NINTH JOIN EXPEDITION ARRIVAL OFF HATTERAS — BOMBARDMENT OF FORTS — SURRENDER AMOUNT OF MATERIAL CAPTURED. WHILE the regular drills, parades, and other ordinary routine duties of camp life continued, the task of reconnoitering the adjacent country by companies, or smaller de- tachments, was performed at regular intervals. The immediate vicinity was occupied by the enemy, and it called for extreme alertness and watchfulness to guard against surprise and keep informed of his movements. On June 29, 1861, Company A, Captain Graham, was sent out to reconnoiter, as was usual. While moving along the road some dis- RECONNAISSANCES BY COMPANIES. 7 1 tance from camp the company suddenly came upon two Confederate soldiers, evidently on scouting duty. They were gathered in and taken before the Colonel. They were dressed in a uniform very similar to that worn by the 5th N. Y. (Duryea's), and they informed their captors that the name of their organization was the " Louisiana Tigers." The condition of their clothing was such that it was removed and burned as a matter of self defense. But there were sometimes losses as well as captures. A certain regiment at the post had frequently reported losses from its companies while they were on reconnoitering duty. Colonel Phelps finally sent for the colonel of this regiment and questioned him as to the cause, remarking that while his regiment reported losses, the Ninth seldom went out without bringing in prisoners. The Colonel could not explain this, but the losses from this time were less numerous. Another reconnaissance was made shortly after that of Company A, which brought the men to a stern realization of actual warfare and the duty of a soldier in the presence of the enemy. This was conducted by Captain Ham- mill and his Company, F. Starting out on the evening of July 3d, they bivouacked for the night some distance from 72 NINTH REGIMENT, NEW YORK VOLUNTEERS. camp, and by daybreak the next morning were on the road. After marching a short distance they suddenly came upon a force of the enemy — principally infantry, some cavalry, and at least one piece of artillery — which was appar- ently on an expedition similar to that in which they themselves were engaged. This force was still in camp with no pickets posted, and if there was a guard at all it was simply a camp guard. A lively skirmish at once developed. The rebels were thrown into confusion as soon as the attack was made, while the men of Company F were alert, paying close attention to com- mands and attending strictly to the business in hand. Some of the enemy evidently supposed the attack came from another party of their own men, as there were shouts of " Washington ! Washington !" ''Arlington ! Arlington!" probably the parole and countersign, and cries of "Cease firing !" The cavalrymen rushed for their horses, mounted, and in wild confusion rode through their camp and over their own infantry, who held their ground for a few moments only, then broke and fled. There were no casualties to report in Company F, but later it was learned from an item in a Richmond, Va., newspaper, which reached the Union camps, that the enemy lost in the affair a Colonel Dreux, of Louisiana, and one captain killed, and seven or eight pri- vates wounded. COMPANY A'S PLIGHT. 73 The Zouaves returned to camp without further adventure. On another occasion (July 8th) Company A was sent to reconnoiter. The command left camp late one afternoon, was on the march all night in various directions, and just after sun- rise on the following morning, encountered the enemy's pickets near Warwick Court House. These fell back after exchanging a few shots with the advancing Zouaves. The main body of the detachment, while looking for some demonstration in the direction of the retreating rebel picket, were about to fall back leisurely, feeling that the object of the expedition had been accomplished — locating the position of the enemy — when they suddenly became aware that a large cavalry detachment of the enemy was advancing rapidly in their direction. These troops were followed by what appeared to be at least a regiment of infantry, which was rather an unexpected stirring up of a hornet's nest. Nothing remained but to seek the cover of the woods about an eighth of a mile distant. Being outnumbered ten to one an engagement was considered foolhardy. The alternative was a precipitate retreat with the certainty of a good run at first, and the probability of an ultimate surrender. While double quicking for shelter a bright idea occurred to the captain, and he 74 NINTH REGIMENT, NEW YORK VOLUNTEERS. ordered the bugler to sound, " Rally on the Re- serve." At that time both armies used the bugle and drum calls of the old U. S. Army, and the rebels recognizing the call, halted, adjusted their infantry line, and dismounted their cavalry. By this time the Zouaves had gained the woods, and after proceeding a short distance therein were halted, formed into rather a close skirmish line, took position behind trees and stumps, and prepared to offer such resistance as they could to the advancing enemy. Soon the snapping of twigs and dry branches under the feet of the advancing skirmishers was heard, but instead of directly approaching the position where the company was concealed and awaiting them, they moved diagonally toward the left of the line, advancing at an angle of about forty- five degrees to the company front, passing its left flank, and disappearing in the woods to its left and rear. This discretionary ruse of the commanding officer in ordering his bugler to sound the call for rallying on the reserves, showed the quick wit and good sense for which he was noted. The foolhardiness of attempting de- fense against so overwhelming a body of the enemy was apparent to everyone. Had they been captured, either with or without resistance, they would have been certain of a more or less TROUBLE ABOUT RANK OF OFFICERS. 73 protracted stay in Richmond; and while that city was the admitted objective point of every Union soldier in Virginia, no one cared to visit it as a prisoner. After the enemy had disappeared from view, the company was re-formed, moved still farther into the woods, but in the direction of the rebel territory, where a halt was ordered, rations eaten, and the men, with the exception of the guard, permitted to have an hour or two of sleep ; after which a bold push was made for the James River, where, in case of attack, the atten- tion of the gunboats could be attracted and assistance secured with little delay. Much to the relief of the men of the company the enemy was not again seen, and after an exciting day and a long march the detachment returned to camp at Newport News with no casualties to report, but thoroughly tired. While at Newport News an unpleasant incident occurred, which for a time threatened to disturb the harmonious relations among the line officers. As before stated, the commissioned officers in the companies organized at the outbreak of the war were chosen from the old corps — the "New York Zouaves" — and their positions in line apportioned by mutual arrangement; and when Captain Jardine's company joined the 76 NINTH REGIMENT, NEW YORK VOLUNTEERS. regiment at Castle Garden, he became in fact the junior captain, though all the officers were mustered into the United States service on the same day. The question of seniority had been definitely agreed upon. However, at Newport News, Jardine determined to raise the question and have it officially settled. In some manner the belief had gained currency that the drawing of lots by the disputants was the proper mode of determining seniority where commissions bore the same date, and when none of the officers involved had seen former service. General Phelps was waited upon by a com- mittee of three captains, but declined to interfere officially; simply observing: "There should be no difficulty among gentlemen in deciding the question of rank." Jardine, however, insisted upon drawing lots, and the other captains agreed to the idea, believing it to be customary. As each captain, except Jardine, was satisfied with the rank he then held, it was agreed that he, Jardine, alone should draw the lot. He being junior captain was in any event certain of being benefitted by the change. There were ten slips of paper placed in a hat, each slip bearing a number from i to 10. It was agreed that Jardine was to draw from the hat one of these slips, and the number appear- ing on it should entitle him to hold the corre- THE QUEER DRAWING OF LOTS. 11 sponding rank among the ten captains; the captain so displaced should take the rank pre- viously held by Jardine — the junior rank. Jar- dine thrust in his hand and drew a slip which bore the figure one. This relegated Graham to the position of junior, his lieutenants occupying a similar rank, while Jardine's were correspond- ingly advanced. Considerable ill-feeling was for a time felt and displayed ; the condition being such that Graham could have insisted on drawing also, but he preferred to let the matter drop. A strong belief in the unfairness of the draw- ing was afterward created in the minds of some of the officers by a remark of a lieutenant of the regiment, viz.: " Not one of those captains had sense enough to grab one of those slips out of the hat and see if there was any other num- ber than ' one ' marked upon it." On August 17th Major-General John E. Wool superseded General Butler in command of the department; the latter being placed in com- mand of all the troops in the department ex- cept the regulars. General Butler had for some time been aware of the building of the Confederate forts Clark and Hatteras, designed by the Confederate Government to secure to themselves the con- trol of Hatteras Inlet. Having learned through 78 NINTH REGIMENT, NEW YORK VOLUNTEERS. some loyal North Carolinians, who for weeks had worked in the forts, of the progess made, Butler, knowing their great importance, deter- mined their capture if possible. After inform- ing General Wool of the situation at Hatteras, and explaining his plans for the capture of the forts, without calling upon General Scott for extra troops, the following order was drawn up and signed : Headquarters Department of Virginia. Fortress Monroe, Va., Aug. 25, 1861. Special Order No. 13. Major-General Butler will prepare eight hundred and sixty troops for an expedition to Hatteras Inlet, North Carolina, to go with Commodore Stringham, commanding home squadron, to capture several batteries in that neighborhood. The troops will be as follows: Two hundred men from Camp Butler and six hundred from Camp Hamilton, with a suitable number of com- missioned officers, and one Company, "B" of the Second Artillery from Fortress Monroe. They will be provided with ten days' rations and water and one hundred and forty rounds of ammunition. General Butler will report as soon as he has his troops prepared, to Flag-Officer Stringham, and he will be ready to embark at one o'clock to-morrow. As soon as the object of the expedition is attained the detachment will return to Fortress Monroe. Captain Tallmadge, chief quartermaster, will provide a detachment of eight hundred and sixty men, for the expedition to Hatteras Inlet, with a suitable quantity of water for ten days' consumption, and the chief commissary of subsistence, Captain Taylor, will provide it with rations for the same length of time. These officers will report the exe- cution of these orders by ten o'clock to-morrow if possible. By command of Major-General Wool. C. C. CHURCHILL, First Lieutenant, Third Artillery, Act. Asst. Adjt.-Gen. These forts which the expedition was in- tended to capture were located at Hatteras THE EXPEDITION TO HATTERAS INLET. 79 Inlet, on the " banks," about nine miles south of the Cape. The Inlet was the principal navi- gable entrance from the ocean to interior North Carolina waters, and through it and Ocracoke Inlet, all the commerce of Newbern, Plymouth, Washington, and many other ports on Pamlico and Albemarle Sounds and adjacent rivers, was obliged to pass. It was a point of the greatest importance to the Confederate Government to retain control of this waterway. Companies C, G and H of the Ninth Regi- ment, under command of Colonel Hawkins, were assigned to the expedition. They em- barked on the steamer "Adelaide " August 26, and joining the fleet, set sail, arriving off Hat- teras on the forenoon of the 27th, where they "lay to " until the next day. The landing of the men from the transports was attempted before daybreak on the morning of the 28th, but owing to the extremely heavy surf and rapid and dangerous currents, which nearly always prevail at this exposed point of the coast, but 345 men in all succeeded in reach- ing the shore. These belonged principally to Company G of the Ninth and to the 20th New York. Some half dozen men only of Companies C and H succeeded in landing with the others. Many of the boats were swamped or water- logged, and the energies of Colonel Hawkins 80 NINTH REGIMENT, NEW YORK VOLUNTEERS. and Lieutenant Crosby, of the Navy, were di- rected toward the dangerous and difficult under- taking of saving the lives of the occupants. The disembarkation proving to be impracticable, any further attempt to land the troops was now abandoned. Company G, Captain Jardine, had succeeded in landing at a point about two miles up the coast from Fort Clark, where they were hidden from the view of the garrison by a range of sand hills. The company gained the beach through the heavy surf with great difficulty and danger, but happily without loss of life. The landing was covered by the guns of the " Mon- ticello " and " Harriet Lane," which threw a constant stream of shell into the low shrubbery on the Pamlico shore, driving the enemy out and preventing him from attacking the small force which had landed. In the meantime the fleet under orders of Commodore Stringham had been hotly engag- ing the forts. The Commodore adopted a system of attack peculiarly his own. Con- stantly moving his vessels in a circle he dis- charged his broadsides while abreast of the forts; then quickly swinging around he returned on the other side of the circle out of range of the fire from the forts. Each vessel imitated the action of the flagship, thus making it very diffi- THE ARMY OF OCCUPA TION. 8 1 cult for the artillerists in the forts to train their heavy guns with accuracy on a ship in continu- ous motion. The movement was afterward employed with great success by Dupont in his bombardment of Forts Walker and Beauregard. Stringham never received the credit which was his due, and soon after the surrender of the forts, was, for some mysterious reason, rele- gated to the Charleston Navy Yard to supervise repairs to old hulks, and never again occupied a prominent place during the Rebellion. Captain Jardine assumed command of the force which had landed, but was not sufficiently strong to justify an attack, and he disposed of it behind the sand hills in the most effective man- ner possible. The weather becoming threaten- ing, the Commodore stood out to sea for safety, leaving the " Army of Occupation" in a most precarious and uncertain position when night closed in. Fortunately the enemy left them unmolested. The weather having moderated in the morn- ing, the fleet returned and at eight o'clock re- sumed the bombardment. As seen by the troops on the transports— none of whom had ever seen such an imposing sight — it was an interesting, novel and exciting scene. Company G, having been well closed in on the fort, was in more 82 NINTH REGIMENT, NEW YORK VOLUNTEERS. danger from the fire of its friends than from that of the enemy. During the forenoon the Confederates capitu- lated, and at a most fortunate juncture; for, while the articles of capitulation were under consideration the "Adelaide," loaded with troops, grounded for a while on the bar, while the " Harriet Lane " also grounded and remained fast, and as both vessels were within range of the guns of the fort it was a moment of great anxiety. The surrender of these forts was the first great success of the war thus far and caused much re- joicing at the North. The captures were: 715 prisoners, i ,000 stand of arms, 30 pieces of cannon one ten-inch columbiad, a brig loaded with cotton, a sloop loaded with provisions and stores, two lightships, a schooner in ballast, five stand of colors, and 150 bags of coffee, all without loss of life on the Union side. General Butler in his official report says: "I desire to commend to your attention Captain Jardine, of the 9th New York, who was left in command of the detachment of his regiment, when an accident to the ' Harriet Lane ' prevent- ed Colonel Hawkins from landing." Jardine had with him sixty-eight men. The forts were under the command of Flae- o Officer Samuel Barron, C. S. N., formerly an IMAGINARY WAR AND REAL WAR. 83 officer in the U. S. Navy : the garrison being composed largely of raw, undisciplined recruits who had never been in action, but who doubt- less were inspirited by the universal opinion then indulged in by the South, that " one Southerner was the equivalent of five Yankees, or mudsills." This ignorant confidence, and contempt for Northern people, caused them to fall into the common impression held by people generally who had never been in action, which is, that war consists in shooting at and killing " the other fellow;" therefore, when the "other fellow" began to shoot and to kill also, the whole transaction assumed an entirely different phase to them, and they lost any interest they might at first have had in the action and were ready to quit — which they did. On Sept. 9th, 1 86 1, General Wool, wrote General Scott: "I shall detail a company of regu- lars and send forward the balance (seven com- panies) of Hawkins' regiment, recalling Max Weber's German regiment, much complained of by the inhabitants for depredations and various outrages upon them." CHAPTER V. COLONEL HAWKINS ASSUMES COMMAND OF POST— COR- RESPONDENCE BETWEEN COLONEL HAWKINS AND GENERAL WOOL— EXPEDITION TO BEACON ISLAND— LIEUT.-COLONEL BETTS AND FIVE COMPANIES REJOIN REGIMENT — SURRENDER OF GUNBOAT "FANNIE" — ATTACK ON 20TH INDIANA — GENERAL WILLIAMS SUPERSEDES COLONEL HAWKINS— CON- STRUCTION OF NEW FORTS— ANTIPATHY OF MEN TO WILLIAMS— BOYS "SCOUTING" FOR FRESH PORK SERIOUSLY ALARM THE GENERAL — HAWKINS DIS- PLEASED, WRITES GENERAL WOOL — MAJOR KIM- BALL AND TWO COMPANIES ARRIVE FROM NEW- PORT NEWS— ARRIVAL OF BURNSIDE EXPEDITION- ALL READY FOR ROANOKE ISLAND— RATIONS FROM THE SEA — WINE LABELS PASSED AS CURRENCY- ROBBING POTATO HOUSES. BY virtue of rank, Colonel Hawkins assumed command of the land forces at Hatteras on August 30th, making his headquarters at Fort Clark, while Colonel Max Weber, with part of the 20th New York, was stationed at Fort Hatteras. Instead of following instructions from Wash- ington to close Hatteras Inlet by sinking two CORRESPONDENCE WITH GENERAL WOOL. 85 schooners loaded with sand which were with the fleet for that purpose, General Butler de- cided to disobey orders, and after the surrender at once sailed for Washington to report the result of the expedition and explain his reasons for not closing the Inlet as directed. His action was sustained. Had it been otherwise Burnside's expedition would never have been organized. Early in September Colonel Hawkins wrote General Wool a voluminous letter, setting forth the condition of affairs in the new department and making numerous suggestions as to the future operations he deemed necessary, among others that Roanoke Island should be at once occupied, it being then held by the enemy, and urging General Wool to impress upon the Government " the importance and necessity of immediate action in this department," the wisdom of this being justified later by Burn- side's departure for that strategic point. Among the communications and documents transmitted to the authorities by the Colonel about this time were the following, which may be of interest: Fort Clark, Hatteras Inlet, Sept. 6, 1861. Major-General John E. Wool, Commanding Department of Virginia, Fortress Monroe, Va. General: — On the 30th day of August I landed from the fleet and took command of Fort Clark, where I still remain with the companies which I brought with me from Newport News. During the afternoon 86 NINTH REGIMENT, NEW YORK VOLUNTEERS. of the 30th ult. , a delegation on behalf of the citizens of this island waited on me and placed in my hands a paper, a copy of which is here- with inclosed, and marked "A," and is as follows: To the Commander of the Federal Forces at Hatteras Inlet: Dear Sir: — We, the citizens of Cape Hatteras, do ask of your honor that you will allow us to return to our homes and property, and protect us in the same as neutral citizens, as we have never taken up arms against your government, nor has it been our wish to do so. We did not help by our votes to get North Carolina out of the Union. Believing that your clemency will not allow you to treat us as rebels, who have always been loyal citizens, we do earnestly request, for the sake of our women and children, that you will comply with our wishes, as we seek protection from your honor. Yours very respectfully, CITIZENS OF HATTERAS. In answer to this communication I requested that as many citizens as could might meet me next day for the purpose of arranging terms by which they would be permitted to remain here. Agreeably to the request about thirty men came to see me. The terms were contained in an oath, a copy of which is here transmitted, and marked "B" as follows : State of North Carolina, Hyde County. We, the undersigned, do solemnly swear that we will bear true allegiance to the United States; that we will not take up arms against said Government, or hold any communication with its enemies, or aid or comfort its enemies in any way whatever; that we will give to the commander of Fort Clark any information we may obtain or receive of the approach of the enemy; and in case we are called upon, we will assist the commandant of said fort in his defense thereof against any and all of the enemies of the United States; and we will also, under any and all circumstances, support the Constitution of the United States. Practically every male inhabitant of that portion of the "banks" which came within the jurisdiction of the United States officers sub- scribed to this oath and the relations between them and the soldiers were soon established on a friendly basis. Nothing occurred while the Ninth remained in the vicinity to excite a HATTER AS BANKS IN 1861. 87 suspicion that they were other than loyal Unionists. Hatteras Banks, on which the regiment now found itself established, is a section of that series of long narrow islands which stretch like a barrier reef along the Atlantic coast from Cape May to the southern point of Florida. At Hatteras Inlet it is said to be distant from the main land of North Carolina, Pamlico Sound intervening, fully forty miles. This storm-beaten and desolate strip of sand, so far out to sea, would seem to be as uninviting and inhospitable a spot as human beings could well choose for abiding places. Yet within the territory controlled by the troops whose head- quarters were at the Inlet, some scores of fami- lies had voluntarily, it must be presumed, located themselves and made their homes. The island varied greatly in width. At some places it was several miles between sea and sound, while at other points less than a quarter of a mile separated them. Some portions were simply a wilderness of desolate sand dunes, some of which, however, nearly reached the dignity of hills in size, with here and there, in the lower places, a few stunted live oaks scat- tered about singly or in little bunches of thicket. In the wider parts of the "banks" where the land was not so much at sea as it were, there 88 NINTH REGIMENT, NEW YORK VOLUNTEERS. were forests of considerable extent of ^ood sized pines with occasionally trees of other va- rieties. Here and there where a little soil had formed from the fallen leaves of many seasons and from the decayed wood of the fallen trees, the natives had located and built their houses. The little enclosures of fertile soil nearby they called " The Plantation." The houses of the inhabitants were generally of good size, well built and comfortable, and compared favorably with the average southern farm house as found in more favored localities. At several points within the limits of occupa- tion there were level plains of sand which ex- tended from the sea to the sound, varying in width from two or three hundred yards to a half mile or more, with neither tree, shrub nor hillock to break the general level, and elevated only a few feet above the reach of the tides. These were known to the inhabitants, and soon to the soldiers also, as "bald beaches." Their origin or cause was the source of considerable speculation among such of the boys as cared to waste their gray matter in attempts to solve such questions. The conclusion arrived at was that they had been caused by the passage of sand hills which, at a more or less remote period, had moved across the island, probably from the side toward the ocean, and had finally buried themselves in the waters of the sound. THE MOVING SAND HILLS. 89 In more than one locality in the vicinity of the camps this action, or phenomena, was still apparent. The sand cast up by the action of the sea dried in the sun and breeze and drifting before the prevailing wind, being sheltered from counter-currents by the thick foliage of the pines, formed drifts which constantly grew in breadth and height by the ceaseless moving of the dry surface sand up the windward slope of the growing hill. The eddy formed between the crest of the drift and the opposing wall of trees prevented any forward movement of the mass until the heighth gained by it was equal to that of the woods in front, when, there being no longer an eddy in the wind to retard the forward movement, the advance began. This was slow but irresistible. Everything in its track was overwhelmed. Houses, trees, culti- vated land, all disappeared before the onward march of this silent enemy. After it had passed its tract was desolation, and this was the "bald beach." On September 16th a detachment of the Union Coast Guard, under command of Lieutenants Rowe and Patten, with part of the crew of the " Pawnee," embarked on the steamer " Fanny," and sailed for Beacon Island, where they dis- covered a large battery mounting twenty-two guns, four of which had been removed the pre- 90 NINTH REGIMENT, NEW YORK VOLUNTEERS. vious day to Newberne. The guns were de- stroyed, bomb-proofs demolished, woodwork of battery and large piles of lumber burned. A lightship towed from its moorings by the rebels was also destroyed by fire, and a quantity of ammunition secured, some eighty shells being carried away from the island. On the ioth of September five companies of the regiment left Newport News with Lieuten- ant Colonel Betts, landing at Hatteras the next day, when he was directed by Colonel Hawkins to camp about two miles up the island on the shore of Pamlico Sound. The location was named Camp Wool. These men brought a story of a naval fight in the James River, between the fleet, near the camp at Newport News, and a rebel gunboat which came out of Norfolk Harbor one day. This boat was armed with a gun of such a long range that she was able to keep outside of the range of the guns of the Union fleet and pepper them at her leisure. As a matter of fact the little rebel gunboat, with only one gun in action^ held the fleet at her mercy. It was only a question of marksmanship how soon she would sink one or more of them. While the soldiers were watching the firing, a boat arrived from one of the naval vessels. The officer in charge requested the first man he met, NAVAL FIGHT AT NEWPORT NEWS. 91 Jerry Donovan, of Company A of the Ninth, to conduct him to General Phelps' headquarters. They found the General watching the one-sided fight from his quarters. The naval officer ex- plained the situation. Their guns did not have range enough to reach the enemy and they were in danger of being sunk at their moorings. He requested the General to try the range of the big 6-inch "James"' rifle, which was mounted in a little battery of its own on the bluff. At the time of this attack there happened to be no regular artillerists in camp. As a matter of fact the James rifle had no crew. The gun was not considered a part of the armament of the place. It had been brought there and mounted by the inventor and maker at his own expense, in his desire to have it tested and adopted by the Government. It was one of the forerunners of the modern high-power guns, and a remarkably efficient one, as it had re- peatedly thrown shells across the James to Pigs Point, a distance of four miles. After the Hatteras expedition sailed General Phelps began to drill detachments of the Zouaves at this big rifle. They learned readily and were soon very proficient. Therefore, when the naval officer suggested that the big gun be used, the General replied, " I was just thinking about that myself." Donovan was di- 92 NINTH REGIMENT, NEW YORK VOLUNTEERS. rected to call together enough men to man the gun. He soon returned with three of his comrades and they, with General Phelps as one of the crew, manned the big gun, and in a few moments had opened fire on the enemy. The General sighted and fired the gun himself, getting the range of the rebel gunboat after a few shots, which obliged her to beat a hasty retreat to the shelter of Craney Island. The boys of the " scratch " gun crew were very proud of the fact that they had been in action with a brigadier-general as a side partner. This was another illustration of the fore- thought and thoroughness of General Phelps in everything pertaining to his duty. Two companies still remained at Newport News (B and K) under command of Major Kimball, who was chafing with impatience at being kept from more active service in the field. Intelligence was received at the Inlet in the latter part of September that the enemy were being largely reinforced at Roanoke Island, and were fortifying it extensively. Colonel Hawkins deemed it prudent to establish a camp at Chi- comocomico, about thirty-six miles north of the Inlet, as a point of observation, and seven com- panies of the 20th Indiana, which had recently arrived at the post, were ordered there for that CAPTURE OF THE ' ' FANN Y." 93 purpose. Communication was maintained and supplies forwarded by means of a small steamer, the " Fanny," on which was mounted one or two boat howitzers. She was commanded by the Sergeant-Major of the Ninth, who had been a sailor, and was manned by a crew detailed from the regiment. On one of the trips while engaged in discharging cargo into small boats, about four miles off shore, in the shallow water opposite the camp at Chicomocomico, she was surprised and captured by three rebel vessels which suddenly appeared, and were disposed in such a manner as to cut off her retreat. No attempt was made to destroy the vessel or cargo and everything fell into the hands of the enemy. This included Sergeant-Major Pea- cock and nine enlisted men of the Ninth, twenty men of the 20th Indiana, and all the commissary and quartermaster's stores with which the vessel was loaded. All the new overcoats for the 20th were among the stores lost. No doubt they were appreciated by the rebels into whose hands they fell, more espec- ially as the season was already well advanced toward the time when cold weather might be looked for. About daybreak on October 4th, only a few days after the above unfortunate occurrence, the camp at Chicomocomico was attacked by an overwhelming force of the 94 NINTH REGIMENT, NEW YORK VOLUNTEERS. enemy, who appeared so suddenly in several vessels on the sound, as to almost effect a surprise, landing both opposite to and below the camp in an attempt to cut off the escape of the Indiana men. At the first alarm, and when Colonel Brown, who was in command of the 20th, realized his position, he dis- patched a messenger to notify Colonel Haw- kins of his plight and fell hastily back out of the trap set for him. When the messenger dispatched by Colonel Brown reached Colonel Hawkins, the latter at once hurried Captain Jardine toward Chicomocomico with instruc- tions, and to render what assistance he could pending the arrival of reinforcements. Mean- while Colonel Hawkins notified the command- ant of the naval forces at the Inlet of the situa- ation and of his intended action in connection therewith, and at once started with eight com- panies of his regiment to the assistance of Colonel Brown. This march was the most severe and trying one which the regiment had up to that time been called upon to make. The start was made about five o'clock in the evening and was a forced march in the full meaning of the term. The men pushed on hour after hour through the deep yielding sand at their utmost speed. The night was dark and the ground over which the regiment moved FORCED MARCH TO CHICOMOCOMICO. 95 was rough. In some places the loose sand was more than shoe deep, and as a consequence the shoes of the men filled with sand, which made marching extremely painful and difficult, and they had to be removed and emptied at frequent intervals. Some of the Zouaves tried to im- prove matters by removing their shoes and marching barefoot. They soon learned that this was impossible as it was found that in many places the ground was thickly strewn with small round sharp-pointed burrs which stuck in the flesh and made marching barefooted out of the question. Some time during the night the regiment arrived at a point within supporting distance of the 20th, when they heard the welcome com- mands " halt " and " rest," and where they bivouacked for the night. In the morning they started on the return march in company with the 20th Indiana, and reached their camp some hours after dark the same night, in a worse condition, from fatigue and exhaustion, than they had been in at any time up to that period of their service. General Mansfield arrived at the Inlet about this time and assumed command. He re- mained only a few days, however, as he soon departed leaving Colonel Hawkins again in •command. 96 NINTH REGIMENT, NEW YORK VOLUNTEERS. On October 8th Gen. Thomas Williams was ordered to Hatteras Inlet to fill the place left vacant by General Mansfield, and to assume command of all the Union troops in North Carolina, and was especially directed when establishing posts not to separate the forces at too great a distance from each other. General Williams was a regular army officer from the artillery branch of the service, and proved himself an able, and later, a gallant soldier, as well as a painstaking and conscien- tious commander. Still there appeared to be much of the inconsiderate martinet in his char- acter. He managed affairs on Hatteras in a vigorous manner by issuing a series of orders which completely changed previous conditions. He moved the different detachments of the " Ninth " hither and thither according to his whims apparently, establishing and breaking up camps, seemingly keeping everything and every- body in a constant turmoil. He caused a battery to be erected on the beach facing the ocean, which to the unpro- fessional eyes of officers and men seemed to be of no advantage. One night during a heavy storm a portion of the Atlantic Ocean came up and took it away and it was never rebuilt. Another fort on a larger and more preten- tious scale was started on the " bald beach " " WILLIAMS' FOLLY." 97 nearest to the camp, and which extended from ocean to sound, as has been described above. This work was designed by regular engineers, and every enlisted man in the command worked upon it daily, except when on guard duty. The fatigue details were at times so large as to include nearly the entire force not on guard, and for many consecutive days at a time there were no drills. The men named this work "Williams' Folly." Day after day the engineer officers planned, the men brought sand in wheelbarrows, and carried sod, but their best efforts could not elevate the fort above the level of the beach. As the work progressed the drifting sand was carried forward like snow on a wintry blast, swirling and lodging in and around it, con- stantly raising the surface of the ground and keeping pace with the work as it grew in height. Had it been built as high as the Tower of Babel the sand would probably have risen to the same height, and it would have always remained a sloping hill, its base con- stantly enlarging and its grade becoming more gradual. General Williams was one who in no way spared himself, either in hard work or un- pleasant duties; he was always on active duty. Day or night he was a familiar figure. That 98 NINTH REGIMENT, NEW YORK VOLUNTEERS. his treatment of the " Ninth " was severe cannot be denied. From the first he and the regiment were antagonistic. The men entertained a feeling of resentment against an officer, who, although of superior rank, had superseded their colonel in an important command. They did not try to conceal their feelings, but were wise enough to avoid committing any overt act, and in a military sense were not insubordinate. Still they were sullen and unsoldierly in their manner toward the General and he, being human, retaliated by proposing to "take it out of them." This, combined with the hard man- ual labor the men were forced to perform in the work which the General doubtless consid- ered necessary for the safety of the post, but which a majority of the men looked upon as rank tyranny, caused relations which diplo- mats would call " strained." Some of the more reckless of the men con- structed pitfalls in the sand in the immediate vicinity of the new fort for the purpose of entrapping the General. They succeeded at last, and when one morning he tumbled into one of them, they exhibited great glee, although somewhat suppressed, and considered them- selves well paid for the extra labor expended in digging it. Another matter which added to the discom- SIMULA TING DEFENSE. 99 fort of the troops while General Williams was in command was the simulating a defense against surprise each morning two hours before daylight. His theory, which was doubtless correct, was that if the enemy attempted a surprise he would be likely to make the attempt just before day- break, consequently to properly guard against it the troops should be in the defenses or in line of battle previous to that hour. Inasmuch as the camps were at one end of an island which was situated forty miles from the main land, and in some parts not over one-fourth of a mile wide, with detachments of troops en- camped along the narrow island many miles from the main camp, and with outlying pickets as well, the chances of such an attempt being made were deemed too remote to justify turn- ing the men out of their more or less warm blankets between three and four o'clock on cold winter mornings to perform an hour or two of hard drill in simulating a defense. All this produced a feeling of dislike on one side and distrust on the other. The following will serve to illustrate. There were stationed at one of the outlying camps three companies of the " Ninth," among them Company K. From the time of taking the field no issue of fresh meat had been made LofC. lOO NINTH REGIMENT, NEW YORK VOLUNTEERS. to the regiment, and none had reached the men with the exception of what little had been pro- cured in ways it is unnecessary to explain, but which would have been frowned upon by the good people at home. Consequently the men were, as they expressed it, " meat hungry." A certain member of one of Company K's squads became possessed of the knowledge that one of Caleb Stowe's hogs had escaped from its pen and was wandering far from home midst the brush and swamps, and was liable to come to harm. An expedition was organized for its capture. Tom Stapleton, " Blackie " Farley, "Buffer" Johnson, and several others started from camp to capture the prize. It was necessary to move secretly and quietly, for if anyone outside the squad to which these energetic and resourceful young soldiers be- longed had learned that " fresh pork " was wandering loose in the woods the entire com- mand would soon have known it also, and then all chance of its capture would have been destroyed. To shoot the porker was out of the question, for at that time to discharge a cartridge, except at the enemy, would have brought swift and condign punishment upon the rash offender. The game must be secured either by fleetness of foot or by strategy. They first attempted to run it down, without reckoning on the speed THE A TTEMPT A T ASSASSIN A TION. 1 1 and endurance of a "razor-back" hog. How- ever, by judicious relays of pursuers they so succeeded in tiring it that it sought cover in a little thicket by the side of a sandy road, which made a sharp turn here at the edge of the woods. The men were creeping stealthily forward to surround their prey, and were well closed in on its hiding place, when General Williams, who was on his way to the camp for his accustomed visit, rode rapidly, and on ac- count of the soft sand in the road, noiselessly out of the woods. The men were so eager and intent on the business before them that not one of them was aware of his presence. The rush of the horse startled the hog, which at once broke cover. One man, referring to the animal, shouted: "There goes the ! Give it to him!" To the General, it was plainly an ambush with an attempt at assassination, and driving the spurs into his horse, and lying low on the animals neck, he was off like a bird, and galloping direct to camp ordered the "long roll " to be at once beaten. The foragers com- prehended the situation in the twinkling of an eye. Lack of acute perception and prompt de- cision could not be charged among their short- comings. Dashing across the swamp by a short cut they secured their arms and were in their places in line when the companies were formed. 102 NINTH REGIMENT, NEW YORK VOLUNTEERS. The roll was called and all the men were found to be present or accounted for. The General was puzzled, and it is needless to add that the culprits were never discovered. Had they been, in all probability they would have been severely dealt with, probably have been shot, as the evidence would have been strongly against them. The story was too rich to be kept a secret and finally leaked out, but not until after the regiment had been assigned to another command. General Williams was killed at the battle of Baton Rouge, La., while gallantly leading an Iowa regiment in a charge on the enemy. His untimely death was regretted by both the offi- cers and men of Hawkins' Zouaves, as notwith- standing his faults he proved himself a gallant soldier. As they became more experienced in army life they learned that eccentricity was not an uncommon characteristic of elderly army offi- cers, and that the General's harshness and severity was due very largely to their own unpleasant habit of not only thinking but of sometimes expressing their thoughts in words, while he was simply carrying out his own idea of what was proper to be done and perform- ing his duty as he thought it should be per- formed. MAJ. KIMBALL WITH COS. B & K, ARRIVE. 1 03 Soon after the appointment of General Wil- liams to the command at Hatteras Inlet, Gen- eral Mansfield sent a report to General Wool, . of which the following is an extract : "The command of Col. W. L. Brown being but seven companies — say 500 strong — and the enemy supposed to be at least 2,000 strong, Col. Brown immediately, by orders received from Colonel Hawkins at that moment, took up his line of march on the east beach for Hatteras light- house, where he was met by Colonel Hawkins with his command, and finally the whole command fell back to this station — Hatteras Inlet — with a loss on the part of Colonel Brown of three sergeants, two cor- porals, and twenty-four men stragglers. " He sent back a party to burn and destroy his camp, which was supposed to be partially done, and they fell into the hands of the enemy." On the 7th of October, Companies B and K, which had remained at Newport News under command of Major Kimball, arrived at Hatteras. All the companies were thus once more assem- bled at the same post or station, but they were not reunited by any means. The whole regi- ment was not encamped together at any one time during their occupation of Hatteras. During all the time Colonel Hawkins was in command of the post his headquarters continued to be at Fort Hatteras, with at times one, two or perhaps three companies of the regiment encamped in the immediate vicinity, under com- mand of one of the senior captains, while the remainder of the battalion present was located at Camp Wool, about two miles above the fort, with Lieutenant-Colonel Betts in command. 104 NINTH REGIMENT, NEW YORK VOLUNTEERS. The Lieutenant-Colonel was an officer of very superior talents and attainments, an excellent .tactician and possessed of marked executive ability. He also enjoyed the respect and con- fidence of every one in the regiment. He was the happy possessor of a faculty which few officers, either regular or volunteer, could claim — of being able to make a battalion drill interest- ing to those engaged in it. His clear and concise explanations of the way to perform in- tricate evolutions were listened to with interest, if not with pleasure. Another thing which is remembered distinctly by the survivors of the regiment, is the regularity and smoothness with which everything pertaining to the daily routine of camp life progressed when under his com- mand. It is remembered that there was an almost total absence of jar or friction in camp when he was the commanding officer. There were officers in the regiment toward whom more affection may have been felt by the men but none of them were more highly es- teemed by them than Lieutenant-Colonel Betts. When Major Kimball arrived from Newport News, 1 with the two remaining companies, another camp was established still farther up the island, to the command of which he was assigned. After General Williams arrived at the post COMPANY K, BECOMES A BATTERY. 105 camps were changed and commands readjusted so frequently that it would be monotonous to chronicle them in detail. When Colonel Hawkins was placed in arrest and sent to Fortress Monroe accompanied by charges of insubordination — the result of his re- fusal to assign Captain Bernard to a company when ordered to do so by General Williams, an account of which will be found in another chapter — the command of the regiment devolved on Lieutenant-Colonel Betts. His headquar- ters were always at or near Camp Wool, but the greater portion of the regiment was nearly always distributed among the other outlying camps, Winfield, Trent and others, and Major Kimball was always in command of the largest battalion, as befitted his rank. When Colonel Hawkins rejoined the regi- ment, which was in December 22, after an ab- sence of about two months, he brought with him two hundred rifles with which to arm the flank companies — the regiment was originally armed with smooth bore muskets — and three light field howitzers. These were given to Capt. James R. Whiting's Company K, which was erected into a battery, three more guns being added later, which made up the full com- plement for a field battery. The men of Company K at once began the 106 NINTH REGIMENT, NEW YORK VOLUNTEERS. drill and practice of light battery tactics, soon mastering all the intricacies and becoming quite proficient in handling the guns. The company afterward rendered excellent and efficient ser- vice both in field and garrison, especially during the siege of Suffolk, Va., and were frequently commended by the different generals in whose command they served. During the months of November, December, and January, the various companies of the reg- iment were constantly changing camp, and finally settled down in their original positions, where they remained until the final departure from Hatteras. On the 13th of January, 1862, the steamer " S. R. Spaulding " arrived at Hatteras, followed by many vessels of the Burnside expedition. This expedition was organized for the cap- ture of Roanoke Island and other locations on the North Carolina Sounds and adjacent rivers, and was accompanied by a fleet of improvised gunboats, under the command of Commodore Goldsborough. The fleet of transports seemed a strange one to send through Hatteras Inlet. It was a gathering of nearly everything that would float. There were full-rigged ships, ocean steamers, New York bay tugboats, Brooklyn and Staten Island ferryboats; the sight of which caused the New York boys a THE BURNS IDE EXPEDITION. 107 pang of homesickness, as thoughts swiftly flew to scenes at home. None knew of the presence of the choking lump of emotion in the throat of his comrade as they gazed at these familiar boats, but each was secretly conscious of his own longing for home and loved ones. There were also canal boats from Buffalo, and one stern-wheel steamer from away down in Maine, and it may be safe to say that the age of some of the craft would date nearly back to the days of Noah's ark. It was said that Pamlico and Albemarle Sounds were navigable for vessels drawing nine feet, but on the " Swash " or inner bar at the Inlet, there was only six feet of water. While navigators and engineers were engaged in the elucidation of the problem of how to sail a vessel drawing twenty feet across a bar over which there were but six feet of water, the fleet remained at anchor in the open ocean. An easterly storm arose while it was thus ex- posed, and while some vessels stood out to sea for safety, most of the fleet trusted to riding it out at anchor. The storm proved to be very severe and several vessels went ashore and were lost. As many vessels as could anchor in the Inlet did so and found a comparatively secure har- bor, but outside the scene was frightful. Many 108 NINTH REGIMENT, NEW YORK VOLUNTEERS. vessels dragged anchor, some dashed into the breakers, others foundered where they lay. Two ocean steamers were in the south breakers at the same time, pounding to pieces, in plain view of the people on shore and those on the vessels at anchor in the Inlet, but the weather was so tempestuous, and the seas so high, that at first little if any aid could be given the unfortunates, and many lives were lost. At last volunteer crews manned several lifeboats and did heroic and efficient service, rescuing many of the shipwrecked people. When the weather had moderated sufficiently to do so with safety, the entire force was disembarked and went into camp to await the solving of the aforesaid problem. The drinking water on the island being very bad, considerable sickness occurred after the troops landed. There had been some cases of typhoid fever among the soldiers of the "Ninth," and a few deaths, but among the new men the deaths occurred by the score. In addition to typhoid, measles broke out in some of the new regiments, and was attended with great fatality. Funerals were of so frequent occurrence that it was said by a jocular spirit that the mocking- birds had learned to whistle the " Dead March." Notwithstanding the extremely bad water, and the generally insanitary condition of the FAITHFUL SER VICE OF THE MEDICAL OFFICERS. 1 09 ground in the vicinity of the camps of the Ninth, the sick list never became large, and the total deaths from disease during the two years' term of service numbered only twenty. At this juncture the Zouaves began to re- alize their good fortune in being blessed with such medical officers as Doctors Humphreys and White, who constantly and intelligently attended strictly to the performance of duty. The sick were attended to as faithfully as they would have been at home. The men had the utmost confidence in the skill and ability of the surgeons, and in their faithful attention to duty at all times ; and that trust was never mis- placed. Nearly a month passed in lightening gun- boats and transports, and dragging them over the bar into the deeper water of the Sound, and this time was occupied by the newly arrived troops in improving their drill and discipline. The greater part of both officers and men of the new regiments had never handled a musket or performed a military evolution. To some of them a drill was simply marching hither and thither by the flank, like schoolboys upon the village common. One morning a company was drilling near the camp of the " Ninth " and a swamp hole was directly in their path, when the captain 1 lO NINTH REGIMENT, NEW YORK VOLUNTEERS. gave the command, " Boys, haw (go to the left) that mud puddle ! " They understood and " hawed " it. The officers of the new regiments fully re- alized their deficiency in the knowledge of drill and military matters in general. They sought to remedy this defect and soon obtained the needed help. Men of the " Ninth " volunteered to instruct such officers and non-commissioned officers as wished to avail themselves of the opportunity and whose regimental camps were near enough to that of the Ninth to make it practicable. Many of the Zouaves devoted considerable time and attention, when off duty between drills, in giving theoretical and prac- tical instructions to the new men in the manual of arms, and school of the soldier, and com- pany. A considerable proportion of the officers' tents became schools of instruction, and doubt- less much benefit was derived from this method of teaching. It may be as well to remark in this connection f that without an exception all of these new regiments returned from the war with most excellent records, many of the officers distinguishing themselves in battle, some of them obtaining high rank and occupying re- sponsible positions before the Rebellion ended. After weeks of hard and unremitting labor RA TIONS FROM THE SEA. 1 l i the fleet was at last anchored safely in the Sound, stores were reloaded, batteries replaced, and all was ready for the forward movement to Roanoke Island. There was one circumstance which occurred while the detachment under Lieutenant-Colonel Betts was stationed at Chicomocomico which may be worth mentioning. While camped there rations ran very low and at last came the cry of " no grub," which proved to be the fact, as not a morsel of food was left in the commissary department, and starvation threatened, when in some way now forgotten, the " Monticello," lying off the beach, was com- municated with, and the situation explained to the commanding officer, Lieut. Daniel L. Braine, who relieved the necessity of the soldiers by throwing overboard barrels of ship's-bread (a large, hard, round cracker) which slowly floated ashore and was seized with avidity by the hungry and expectant Zouaves ; the slight addition of salt water in no way interfering with its palatableness. There were a large number of inhabitants scattered along the beach of the island, each family locating on a spot wherever a patch of fertile soil occurred — fertile when compared with the drifting sand which composed the greater part of the island. These patches were, 1 1 2 NINTH REGIMENT, NEW YORK VOLUNTEERS. in a way, cultivated; corn, sweet potatoes, and a few other vegetables being raised. The entire " plantation," as it was designated, being about the size of an ordinary kitchen garden on a northern farm. The men of the island were fishermen and pilots ; the former their regular vocation, the latter, when opportunity offered, to catch a ves- sel bound in through the Inlet. At various elevated places along the beach tall spars and masts of wrecked vessels had been planted perpendicularly in the sand with small pieces of wreckage nailed crosswise upon them to form a primitive ladder. The top of this ladder was used as a lookout station, from which eager eyes scanned the horizon for inward bound craft, the one first sighting such a vessel havine the best chance of first reaching her in his boat, thus securing the privilege of piloting her through the shoals and over the bar into the deeper waters of the Sound. When Hatteras was captured and occupied this industry was destroyed, as all vessels arriving after that date were captured by the Federal gunboats. The natives soon learned that the boys pos- sessed money and could be induced to part with it in exchange for any commodity which struck their fancy, more particularly in the line TRADE WITH THE INHABITANTS. 1 1 3 of eatables, which might prove a grateful change from "sow-belly" and "salt horse." There were no roads on the island except such as had been made by the troops from camp to camp, all transportation being by water. Each family possessed several boats for sailing or rowing, some fitted for sound, others for ocean work. Trade was at first somewhat sluggish. A soldier would hail a passing fisherman going home with his "catch" and inquire if the fish were for sale, and the man would gladly land and probably dispose of the entire lot. On passing camp the next time he would naturally stop and offer his fish. In the mean- time his neighbors heard of the new market near home, and they came also with sweet potatoes, eggs, chickens, etc., and the women, not to be outdone in the trading line, brought specimens of home cooking, "fearfully and wonderfully made," the master piece, being the sweet potato pie, which looked like a sheet of thick, wet brown paper spread on a sole-leather crust. Surgeon Humphreys, however, soon placed a veto on the sale of this wonderful composi- tion, and the sentries received orders to pro- hibit its sale in any of the camps. There was soon an animated market scene, each morning - , at the little landings of the different camps. 114 NINTH REGIMENT, NEW YORK VOLUNTEERS. So long as his money held out the soldier paid fairly and honestly for goods purchased, and doubtless whether he had cash or not it was his intention to pay at some future time, but as a certain place is said to be paved with good intentions, it is certain that many a stone was added to the said pavement during the stay at Hatteras. The poorly executed "shinplaster" rebel money which was tendered the soldiers in change — and of course refused — gave some of the men an idea. The pioneer in this enter- prise tried his luck by offering a label from a sherry wine bottle in exchange for two fine roe- shad, and was a trifle staggered when the fisherman asked him what it was. He quickly recovered his equanimity, however, and coolly replied, "a dollar," and received, without the quiver of an eyelid, seventy-five cents in change. For sometime after this trade was exceedingly brisk, any kind of label from bottle or box passing current. Of course good things cannot last forever. Before long the natives realized the worthless- ness of the stuff, and there is little doubt that many of them had their confidence in the integrity of the Zouaves sadly shocked thereby. It is a difficult matter to attempt to defend such transactions, still it can be truthfully stated that passing wine and condensed milk WINE LABELS AS CURRENCY. 1 1 5 labels, as the currency of the realm, on poor and illiterate, people by the boys of the regiment, was in a majority of cases done in a thoughtless spirit of mischief, rather than with the deliberate intent of defrauding the receiver. But with some the motto was " necessity knows no law." When the paymaster failed to put in an appear- ance, and the money of the regiment had been exhausted, a ways and means committee was appointed to devise methods for adding variety to the bill of fare, but this was strictly sub rosa. The potato and other root crops of the natives were stored in what were called potato-houses, which were shallow holes in the ground, over which a log structure was built, in turn covered by earth, with the object of preserving an even temperature. An entrance to this depot could readily be made by anyone so disposed, although it was well known by all the Zouaves that swift and severe punishment would follow the detec- tion of anyone found plundering the inhabitants. Foraging was the polite term given it in camp. Still, among such a number of men there were plenty willing to assume any risk for a change of diet. This was usually accomplished in the daytime while " out on pass;" for going outside the lines at night was a delicate and somewhat dangerous undertaking, and not generally 1 16 NINTH REGIMENT, NEW YORK VOLUNTEERS. attempted unless arrangements had previously been made with one of the guard who was expected to cover a post more or less remote from the guard-house on a certain "relief" during the coming night. In the daytime the coveted articles were pro- cured by one of a party of men inducing the occupant of some house selected for the attempt to accompany him to a point from which the potato-house was out of view, and there haggle over the price of a chicken or some other mer- chandise long enough to permit his partner to slide off with potatoes sufficient for the present requirement of the mess, when the pretended purchaser would suddenly break off negotiations, and probably on the pretense that the seller was attempting to impose extraordinary prices on poor soldiers. Sometimes these despoilers came to grief, their uniform being so distinctive that their depredations were soon discovered, when they were traced to camp and a complaint lodged with Major Kimball, or whoever happened to be in command. Whether it was Major Kimball's condition of mind on different occasions, or his endeavor to pass sentence on the culprits suitable to the crime, certain it was, justice often saw great variations in his judgments and his punishments PRO VING THE Y DIDW T DO IT 117 were quite irregular. One morning a com- plainant was seen to be in close consultation with the Major. The man was recognized by several of the Zouaves, and in consequence there was considerable uneasiness among them. Dress parade was about to be held and the complainant took position beside the command- ing officer. After the adjutant reported " parade formed," Major Kimball addressed the men about as follows : " Men, this man makes complaint that his potato-house was broken into and robbed last night, and says he saw the men who did it, and that they wore the uniform of this regiment. I told him I did not believe any of my men would be guilty of such a trick, and to satisfy him would ask you in his presence, and he could hear for himself. Now I ask, did any one in this battalion rob the potato-house?" Long before the Major had finished his speech the men had taken the cue and were ready with the expected answer, which was a unanimous. " No !" roared in unison by every man in the line. The Major dismissed the native with a wave of his hand, saying: "There! I told you they didn't do it." These complaints, however, were not always dismissed in this complaisant manner. Some- times when a native appeared in camp with a story of loss of property in which the men 1 18 NIN'IH REGIMENT, NEW YORK VOLUNTEERS. figured as the culprits, he would be directed to remain in camp until the battalion or regiment, if camped in a body, "fell in" for drill or parade, when the ranks would be opened and the accuser conducted up and down both ranks from flank to flank on a tour of inspection, with in- structions to point out the guilty persons if possible. In several instances when men were so identified, in addition to the punishment in- flicted, a fine was imposed which was far in excess of the value of the missing property. On one of these occasions when a countryman was passing along the line carefully scrutinizing every countenance in the ranks, trusting to recognize the hapless individuals who had de- spoiled him of his property, he passed in front of Company K. Tom Farley, who feared that he might possibly bear a resemblance to the guilty party sought for, assumed a frightful squint, suddenly developing one of the worst cases of strabismus ever known in the service, and as the man examined him closely, Farley, throwing as much savageness in his voice as possible, growled ferociously, "Who in the h — 1 are you looking at?" The voice and squint were not recognized as having been with the party of evildoers, and the native hastily passed on, leaving the boys inwardly convulsed at the success of the stra- tagem. CHAPTER VI. UNDERWAY FOR ROANOKE ISLAND ARRIVAL ENGAGEMENT WITH THE FORTS — LANDING OF THE TROOPS — BIVOUAC IN THE MUD FOR THE NIGHT — STEALING BED FROM BE- NEATH THE COLONEL ARMY MOVES ON THE ENEMY — MAJOR KIMBALL'S FEAR THAT THE MEN MIGHT WEAKEN — ARRIVAL IN FRONT OF BATTERY ORDER TO CHARGE THE WORKS — COLONEL DeMONTEIL KILLED FIRST BAYONET CHARGE OF THE WAR WHAT CURIE SAW REFLECTIONS EXTRACTS FROM REPORTS OF GENERALS IN COMMAND CAPTURE OF CAPTAIN WISE MORE RAIN DESCRIPTION OF PRISONERS. ABOUT 8 o'clock a.m., February 5th, all the troops which were to form the expedition being on board the transports, the entire fleet got underway for Roanoke Island. At 6 p.m. it anchored until the next day, each brigade an- choring near its own flagship, so that in the event of receiving hurried orders each vessel could be communicated with readily. At eight o'clock the following morning anchors were weighed and the voyage resumed, but at noon 1 20 NINTH REGIMENT, NEW YORK VOLUNTEERS. a heavy fog settled down, which caused another halt and another day's delay. An early start was made on the 7th, and soon Roanoke Island came into view. The Union gunboats formed in single column, steamed ahead and opened fire on the various points where the enemy had exposed their positions by engaging the advancing warships. It was thus discovered that the rebel defenses con- sisted of three batteries near the shore. One of these it was afterward learned, consisted of eleven, one of nine, and the last of four guns. Across the channel in Croatan Sound a row of piles had been driven as an obstruction to the gunboats, and beyond them four armed rebel vessels were stationed. The commander of the gunboats employed tactics similar to those in- troduced by Stringham at the bombardment of Hatteras. He arranged his vessels in such a way, each following its leader in single file, that after once passing the forts they formed an ellipsis, engaging the enemy from the inner edge, continuing until out of range along the off shore side, and again resuming their fire when within range of the first or southerly battery, where the ships again sent in their broadsides. This movement continued almost continuously for the entire day. The transports were held at a safe dis- ENGAGEMENT WITH THE FORTS. 121 tance, their decks, rigging and crosstrees being crowded with troops eagerly watching the action. The majority of the spectators wit- nessed a bombardment for the first time. Al- most every detail of the action was in unob- structed view. Every time a flag on the Con- federate works was shot away the troops, sup- posing it betokened surrender, would send forth such deafening cheers as to nearly drown the roar of the cannon. The several flags on the different forts were carried away a number of times during the day, but were always replaced within a short time. The schooner yacht " Henrietta," formerly the property of James Gorden Bennett, and which he had presented to the Government at the outbreak of hostilities, was a commissioned United States war vessel serving with the fleet. She was in the fiercest of the fight during the entire day. She was armed with a ioo-pounder Parrott gun, mounted amidships, and rendered as efficient service as any vessel in the fleet. The blazing buildings within the forts, and the flying earth and wreckage from exploding shells marking the accurate aim of the gunners on the ships, could be plainly seen from the transports with the naked eye. Late in the afternoon preparations were completed to land 122 NINTH REGIMENT, NEW YORK VOLUNTEERS. the troops, and about 5 o'clock, p.m., they began the movement. They were transferred to small boats, and long strings of these, one behind the other, like great strings of beads, were towed by small steamers to within a short distance of Ashby's Landing, where, after a comparatively short row, a lodgment was effected with very little trouble. For some reason or other very slight opposition was met with here. The troops took position about one mile inland, forcing in the enemy's pickets and establishing their own in their stead, and then went into bivouac for the night. At about eight o'clock in the even- ing the Ninth got the order to follow the others ashore, and dropping into the boats they were soon towed to the landing by the small steamers. Few civilians realize how the tramp of the many feet of an army will grind the damp earth over which they pass into a mass the consist- ency of mortar. The Ninth being among the last regiments to reach the shore, found the ground over which the other troops had passed much cut up and actually knee deep with mud. The short distance they marched from landing to bivouac was literally waded. The troops were then quite closely massed in a cornfield. Rain began falling just after dark and continued heavily all night. The campground was soon covered with pools of muddy water. Lying BIVOUAC A T ASHB F'S LANDING. 1 23 down in the water and attempting to sleep was out of the question, and as the men had not yet learned to sleep in a standing position, there was no sleep. Fires were built and the boys gathered around them shivering and melan- choly. The single house at the landing had been taken possession of and was occupied as quar- ters by the generals and their staffs, with as many other officers of rank as chose to leave their regiments or could be accommodated in it. One of the latter afterward wrote home of this experience as follows : "The generals had gone up garret (there were no rooms up there and had lain down on the floor to sleep. After an hour or so the crowd of officers in the room below began to make arrangements to pass the night as comfortably as possible. There were, of course, no chairs or other accommodations for sitting or reclining, and the hard floor was the portion of those who sought shelter from the rain. I found an old friend in the room who had possession of a bench about two feet long, which he invited me to share with him, so we sat astride of it facing each other, his head resting on my right shoulder, his shoulder support- ing mine in the same way, and in this position we fell asleep." The house at Ashby's Landing gave cold comfort to its occupants on that bleak February night ; yet to the officers and men who clustered about the camp fires without shelter of any kind, the sleeping accommodations of those two officers on the bench were comparatively lux- urious. The night was filled with misery even from a soldier's standpoint. Toward morning fuel became scarce, and as all fences in the 124 NINTH REGIMENT, NEW YORK VOLUNTEERS. immediate vicinity had been appropriated and consumed, the boys took turns in hunting for and bringing in anything they could lay their hands on with which to replenish the fires. Many a provident soldier who had the previous evening secured a few rails and arranged them to form a bed which would keep his body above the water-soaked ground, was cruelly robbed of them, sometimes by sneak thieves, but oftener by the use of moral suasion backed by a power- ful right arm. Some of the men had provided Colonel Haw- kins with a resting place of this kind. It con- sisted of three split rails laid side by side. One end, which may be called the head, was elevated by resting it on a pile of earth dug from a ditch bordering the field. Colonel Hawkins lay on these rails asleep, covered head and all with his red blanket. Where his thoughts on the pinions of fancy shall roam And in slumber revisit his love and his home. Sleep! How often, ah! how often have ye brought sweet and happy dreams on the eve of battle! How often calmed the anxieties for the fortunes of to-morrow. As morning approached and the unfortunates, who had stood about the fires all night, saw the dying embers deepen from red to black, they began to prowl about in a more desperate search STEALING THE COLONEL'S BED. 125 for fuel. Many wistful glances were cast at the rails upon which the red covered figure of the Colonel reposed. Until now the information "It is the Colonel," would send the raiders off in another direction, but at last two bold spirits more reckless than their comrades, approached the sleeper, walked stealthily around him, en- acted a short pantomine, and then — whisk! splash ! — the Colonel lay in the water while two soldiers and a rail disappeared in the darkness. In an instant the Colonel was in a sitting posi- tion, had thrown the blanket from his head, and quickly realizing what had occurred, remarked : " That was pretty well done !" Then quietly ar- ranging his two remaining rails, again sought slumber. This closed the incident, and the two robbers congratulated themselves on their dex- terity as they toasted their shins beside their replenished fire. A false alarm was raised just before day- break. Every man of the Ninth sprang to his musket with an alacrity born of long drills and the habit of the thorough soldier. When the uncertainty was over, there was relaxation until dawn, when the troops were formed in line and moved to the front. General Parke's brigade, to which the Ninth was attached, was held in reserve on the left of the line, and the Ninth was the last regiment to 126 NINTH REGIMENT, NEW YORK VOLUNTEERS. leave its bivouac, as also the last to be brought into action. There was but one road on this part of the island, and this ran from Ashby's Landing in a northeasterly direction to a point more than half way across to the other shore, where it turned abruptly to the northwest and led across a swamp about an eighth of a mile wide. A structure known as a "corduroy road " bridged the swamp and at its farther edge on the solid ground, about an eighth of a mile from the turn of the road, was a Confederate fort or earthwork at the foot of which was a moat. The water in the moat was on a level with that in the swamp. The earthwork ex- tended completely across the road and some distance on either side, its flanks being pro- tected by the swamp. It had but one face, being simply an earthwork, not a fort, and mounted three guns. The trees had been care- fully felled in the front of the work from the ditch to the bend in the road, their trunks toward the fort, their sharpened branches toward an advancing foe. This abatis was the full width of the earthwork at the ditch but became gradually wider toward the turn in the road, and through its center ran the corduroy causeway. On each side of the abatis was a veritable jungle of trees, thickets, and twisted vines and other undergrowth, while the swamp GOING IN TO A CTION. 1 2 7 itself was a mass of mud and slime, sometimes knee deep, sometimes waist deep, with here and there a hump of tangled grass or the roots of a thicket projecting, the whole bottom covered with several inches of water. Official reports show that General Foster commenced the attack about 8 o'clock, a. m., with six Dahlgren boat howitzers. These were supported by the 21st Massachusetts, Colonel Upton, which in turn was supported by the 23rd Massachusetts. When the remainder of the brigade reached the field the 23rd and 27th Massachusetts with the 10th Connecticut were ordered into the swamp on the right to strike the enemy's left flank. On General Reno's arrival he sent word to Foster that his brigade would penetrate the dense woods on the left and endeavor to turn the right flank of the enemy. This was a most difficult task, owing to the natural obstacles to be overcome, in addition to the resistance offered by the enemy. The action had been progressing some time before Parke's brigade was ordered from its bivouac. Before reaching the bend the road was narrow and bordered by dense thickets and swamps. It was badly cut up and trampled by the march of the preceding troops, and that, and the heavy rain of the preceding night had made it little better than a wide ditch of mud 128 NINTH REGIMENT, NEW YORK VOLUNTEERS. and water. Still it was the only means of passage through the thickets, and the soldiers laboriously slipped and struggled on, always hoping for a better road beyond. Only men who have never been in action before can thoroughly realize the carnage and horrors of a battlefield. While the 9th Regiment had been in the field about eight months, and during that time had seen some active service, still many of the men never saw a wounded man, and they were very naturally horror- stricken when they now saw scores of their comrades carried off the field, many of them in the agonies of death. It is far different with the veteran of many battles, to whom such scenes have become familiar. In the heat and roar of the sanguinary conflict he retains all his coolness, looking upon the terrible scenes around him as a matter of course. He is like the " Old Continental," who, when preparing to charge the enemy, would hum the tune: " Why soldiers, why, should we be melancholy, boys ? Whose business is to die — let us be jolly, boys ! " But the veterans are apt to forget their own first battle and to become impatient at the evi- dence of fear which so naturally appears among inexperienced troops, many of the most ner- vous of whom, however, become in a short time the very best and bravest of soldiers. DISPIRITING SIGHTS AND SOUNDS. 1 29 This was well exemplified in the experience of the men in this regiment. While they were moving along the narrow road toward the point where the battle was being fought — which was the only inlet to the scene of action, as it was the only outlet for the wounded — momentarily expecting to be engaged in the conflict, they met great numbers of wounded men, some being carried on stretchers, some assisting each other as best they could, while others moved along unaided. This melancholy column which seemed to have no end, contained men with wounds of every character and degree of severity. As the maimed and injured were so very close at hand the nature of their wounds were plainly visible to all. Some poor fellows lay still and death- like on the stretcher. Some with naked breasts showed how hurried had been the surgeon's search to establish the location of a bullet- wound or to staunch a hemorrhage. On many were hastily noted the little round blue hole, with its darker center, the cause of which every soldier, as well as surgeon, knew so well. This was certainly a ghastly spectacle and of anything but an inspiring character to be wit- nessed by the men. It was a sight intensely trying, and a graphic object lesson, showing viv- idly what they themselves might expect to im- 130 NINTH REGIMENT, NEW YORK VOLUNTEERS. mediately encounter. Added to this was the ratling volleys of musketry, occasionally rising into a steady roar, punctuated by the crashing explosions of the big guns of the enemy and the spiteful barking of the boat howitzers op- posed to them. Now and again the deep- chested cheer of the northern soldiers or the shrill rebel yell would be heard as one or the other of the combatants gained a real or im- aginary advantage. No wonder some were unnerved and turned pale at the saddening sights and the nerve-shaking sounds, and it is only fair and honorable to acknowledge that many a face was blanched, and many a good and true man in the ranks would have been glad indeed to have honorably avoided the coming battle. Major Kimball, whose position in line brought him in more direct contact with the men than any of the other officers, was quick to perceive the effect produced on these boys whom he had hoped to see go into the engagement with a sort of triumphant hurrah. He did his best to counteract the effect which the sights just detailed produced. He tried to raise the spirits of the men by pretending to belittle the spec- tacle, saying it was merely a necessary incident of the battle ; that it did not amount to any- thing any way ; that there were not many MAJOR KIMBALL 'S EXHOR TA TION. 1 3 1 wounded as compared with what he had ex- pected to see, judging from the amount of firing and noise at the front ; told them how his old regiment had fought in the Mexican War, and related acts of gallantry and heroism performed by its members, which he exhorted them to emulate, and reminded them that they were about being called upon to uphold the honor of their country and their regiment, and to remem- ber that they were American soldiers and to behave accordingly. This lesson had, without doubt, a good effect on the boys that heard it. The gallant conduct of the regiment that day as a whole, showed that the depressing effect of the sights and sounds, on the fringe of the battle, had only a temporary effect. Their conduct in the fight earned for them the unstinted commendation of their commanding officers, while the soldiers of the other regiments expressed their apprecia- tion of the conduct of the Zouaves by receiving them with cheers whenever one appeared among them, showering words of commendation and congratulation upon them without stint. When the regiment arrived at the bend in the road where the clearing in front of the rebel battery began, there were no bodies of troops visible other than of their own brigade on the road, and what seemed like a regiment some 132 NINTH REGIMENT, NEW YORK VOLUNTEERS. distance towards their right, lying down, al- though between, and among the trees on the left, men could be seen both singly and in squads, and heavy musketry firing could be heard in the woods on both left and right of the road. There was now nothing to obstruct the view between the Ninth and the rebel fort which was in plain sight. The six Dahlgrens were " in battery " at the bend in the road, but were not at the time in action. They had apparently been silenced. The bodies of several dead sailors lay around them, but no living sailor was in sight save one, an officer, who, with folded arms, was leaning on a howitzer, gazing at the fort. General Foster with several aids stood in open ground, apparently directing the move- ment of the troops, being concealed from the enemy's view by a small thicket. As Reno's advance had left the road clear, Parke's brigade was ordered by Foster to move directly forward in support of the 23d and 27th Massachusetts, which were then engaged in turning the enemy's left. The 4th Rhode Island was in advance, on the right of the brigade. To reach the Massa- chusetts troops it was necessary to leave the road at the turn, which was in the open ground, cross the rest of the cleared strip of swamp in THE ORDER TO CHARGE. 133 front of the fort, and move into the thick woods beyond. The leading company of the Ninth and part of the second one had left the road and were working their way through the vines and thickets of the swamp when some one halted the regiment. The center and part of the right wing was in the open ground in front of the fort, and could distinctly see the movement of the men at the guns. When the halt was made word was passed forward for Colonel Hawkins, who was at the head of the regiment, to come back, but before he had time to do so, Kimball ran to where Foster stood to take any order he had to give. Whatever conversation occurred was quickly over, and Kimball, jerking off his overcoat, threw it from him, and drawing his sword, flourished it around his head and shouted with the full force of his lungs: " Now, boys, follow your old Major — Charge!" When this order was given there was a grand simultaneous rush toward the enemy, and the men who had the best ground to travel on were farthest to the front. There was no possibility of preserving company for- mation in this mad plunge and struggle, through swamps and abatis, over stumps and logs. To enable the reader to clearly understand the situation of affairs on the battleground at the moment the Ninth New York was halted, 134 NINTH REGIMENT, NEW YORK VOLUNTEERS. and the word passed to the front for Colonel Hawkins, as above stated, reference is made to the official map of the battle, issued by authority of the War Department, in which the location of each of the regiments engaged is given, with distances from point to point, nature of the ground, and all other data necessary to give a clear conception of the plan of battle and the disposition of the Union forces. The map shows the road over which the troops advanced as running in a general north- east direction to the edge of the swamp, where it made a sharp turn — nearly a right angle — towards the northwest and continuing in that direction to the ditch in front of the battery, a distance of about one thousand feet from the bend of the road. The battery had a front of about one hundred and fifty feet, was crescent shaped and mounted three guns. The troops in position on the right of the road, operating against the enemy's left, were in the order named from right to left: the 23d Massachusetts, the 27th Massachusetts, the 51st Pennsylvania, the 10th Connecticut, and in the rear of that regiment the 25th Massachusetts, which had exhaust- ed its amunition and had been relieved by the 10th Connecticut. Some distance in front of the 10th Connecticut, very near the bend in the road, was the battery of boat howitzers. DISPOSITION OF THE TROOPS. 13S On the left of the causeway, operating against the enemy's right, and in the order named from left to right were Companies A, G, D and I of the 51st New York, then the 21st Massachusetts, and behind it the remaining companies of the 51st New York, while on the rieht of the 21st Massachusetts was the o 9th New Jersey. The general form of the line approached that of the letter V, with the point formed by the 25th Massachusetts and 10th Connecticut somewhat flattened. The road en- tered the V and turned toward the battery between the 10th Connecticut and 9th New Jersey. There were detachments of rebel in- fantry on each flank of the battery. The arms of the V were each about twelve hundred feet long and they extended so far toward the front that the head of each reached a point nearly, if not fully, on a line with the battery and distant from its flanks about three hundred and three hundred and fifty feet respectively. The Ninth had marched into the lower end of the V, which brought the 25th Massachusetts and 10th Connecticut on their right hand, and the enemy's battery on their left. The regiment had continued straight ahead when the bend in the road was reached, and conse- quently the head of the column, or right of the regiment, had left it at that point and plunged 136 NINTH REGIMENT, NEW YORK VOLUNTEERS. into the swamp, following its leading regiment, the 4th Rhode Island, in obedience to the orders to get on the left flank of the battery. The company on the right and a few files at the head of the one following it, was the only portion of the command that had abandoned the road when the halt was ordered and word passed to the front that Colonel Hawkins was wanted by some one in authority ; presumably General Foster. The left wing of the regiment had not yet emerged from the woods into the open space in front of the work where the timber had been felled, and which was only little more in width than the face of the battery itself, say, two hun- dred feet, therefore, only a few of the companies were then visible to the rebels or exposed to their fire. All the other regiments, as above named, ex- cept the 25th Massachusetts, which had been withdrawn, and part of the 10th Connecticut, which was on dry ground, were struggling as best they could through the mire and amidst the dense vegetation of a North Carolina swamp, with the water, mud and ooze in no place less than knee deep, and in many places fully waist deep, with the view, beyond the dis- tance of a few feet, shut off entirely, and all progress rendered almost impossible by nearly DIFFICUL TIES EN CO UNTERED. 1 3 7 impenetrable thickets of laurel, briers and cling- ing vines and the many other luxuriant growths of an almost semi-tropical jungle. It must be borne in mind that in the limited space into which the attacking force was crowded — several thousand men being obliged to operate and manoeuver in an area in which two, or, at the most, three regiments would have been amply sufficient to cover properly — the different com- mands must of necessity have overlapped each other greatly. The regiments, with the ex- ception of the Ninth New York, were all en- tirely new ones. They had only a short time before arrived from Annapolis, where they had been gathered together to form the Burnside Expedition ; had never before seen any active service, in fact most of them had but a very limited knowledge of drill, and they were now, if we except the short sojourn on Hatteras, getting their first experience on the soil of the Southern Confederacy. These men were crowded into the swamp, regiment after regi- ment, until the various organizations were merged in a crowd or mob. From the nature of the surroundings, being unable to see what was going on about them, being deprived of the ex- ample and of the controlling influence of their officers, by reason of being generally hidden from their view by the thick foliage of the 138 NINTH REGIMENT, NEW YORK VOLUNTEERS. swamp, the men were obliged to act individ- ually, and as is to be expected under such cir- cumstances, it was only the best men among them, those strongly imbued with the spirit of duty and patriotism — and there were many such — who succeeded in struo^rlino- forward to a position from which they could occasionally get a glimpse of the enemy through the inter- vening trees and underbrush, and actually join in the battle. When the Ninth received the order to charge, the companies which were in the open ground immediately changed direction by the left flank and rushed directly toward the battery, through the abatis and along the corduroy road, the other companies pouring in behind them. The right flank company, which was already among the tangled thickets of the swamp, retracing the few steps necessary to regain the road, and joining in the movement. In an instant the whole width of the cleared space in front of the battery was filled with a mass of rushing Zouaves, and the air resounded with their shouts. The enemy at once opened fire with his artillery, which had been silent for a few minutes, and seemed to redouble that of his musketry. From the manner in which the regiment doubled on itself — if the use of the term niay be permitted — when the first rush COLONEL DE MONTEIL KLLLED. 139 was made, the right center becoming the front, and the men toward the right of that front having the advantage of the firm footing of the road and being able to maintain their advanced position throughout, the colors of the regiment had no opportunity to, and did not succeed in getting to the front at any time during the charge, and, therefore, were not with those men who first gained the parapet of the fort. When the Zouaves had covered about one- half the distance to the works the enemy succeeded in checking their advance for a moment. There was a temporary halt, Kimball had disappeared for an instant, stumbled into a bog-hole it was said, and some of the men began firing. The enemy's musketry fire was sharp and effective. The artillery fire was wild and high however, and the only effect it pro- duced was to shower down leaves and branches from the trees on the heads of the men beneath. A few men fell here — not many, but as they fell and lay they looked to the others like a great many. Lieut-Colonel DeMonteil was killed here. He was Lieutenant-Colonel of the D'Epaneuil Zouaves, and had marched into the engagement with Colonel Hawkins at the head of the Ninth, as a volunteer carrying a carbine. At the moment of the check in the advance he had leaped on the trunk of a fallen tree and 140 NINTH REGIMENT, NEW YORK VOLUNTEERS. striding back and forth, shouted: "Do not dis- charge ze cartridge, my children! Forward wiz ze bayonet! Forward wiz ze bayonet! Charge, mes enfants / " and other exhortations of a like character, when he suddenly plunged forward into the water beneath him, killed as quickly as though struck by lightning. His reckless courage was most marked and attracted the attention and excited the admira- tion of all who saw him. No man ever died more bravely. The reports in relation to his identity and antecedents, which at the time and subsequently, gained currency among the soldiers of the Ninth, and which, although not confirmed from any responsible source, there is no reason to doubt, were to the effect that he was a major in the Marine Service of France and had procured leave of absence, or permission from his govern- ment, to come to the United States for the purpose of entering the military service and taking part in the war. His body was sent north by Colonel Hawkins, consigned to the care of some of his — Colonel H's — friends in New York, who honored it with a soldiers burial in Greenwood Cemetery, and raised a fitting monument over the grave. Among the men who were hit here about the time Lieut-Colonel DeMonteil was killed, were A TEMPORAR Y CHECK. 1 4 1 Snow and Donovan, of Company A, the latter very seriously; Lieut. Geo. W. Debevoise of the same company, who was disabled for duty for several months; Scannel, of Company K, mortally, and others whose names cannot now be recalled. Captain Jardine, of Company G, and Captain Graham of Company A, were both in the front rank, and each seized muskets from the men crouched near them and fired into the middle embrasure of the fort, where the enemy could be seen at work at their guns. Each of the officers named fired two or three shots. As said before, the check was only momentary. Some one shouted: "What's the matter here? Forward ! " and the cry of " Forward the Ninth! Forward, Company !" was raised by the officers at the front. The men responded instantly and dashed forward, that is some of them did, those on the road. The others struggled and wallowed in the same direction. Struggled through the abatis and wallowed through the deep swamp mud. Soon after this second rush had fairly begun the fire from the fort began to slacken, and by the time the advance had reached the moat it had ceased altogether. The men swarmed over the para- pet and through the embrasures and the battle of Roanoke Island was won. From the instant the order to charge was 142 NINTH REGIMENT, NEW YORK VOLUNTEERS. given, in fact, from the time the regiment first arrived on the ground, until the men began to pour over the works, not more than five minutes had elapsed. A small flag of the enemy's, apparently a presentation flag, as it had a deep bullion fringe and was handsomely mounted, was flying inside the works and some of those who first sprang into the fort made a rush to secure it. Private Caster, of Company C, was the successful one and after a struggle tore it from the staff and concealed it inside his blouse. The staff was broken in the melee and the metal plate, bearing a presentation inscription, was secured by an- other of the boys, who cannot now be iden- tified. Caster retained possession of this flag until his death, when it became the property of John Hassall, Casters friend and intimate associate before and after the war, and his tent- mate and bunkie during the service. He still has the flag in his possession. The advance of the regiment had barely reached the inside of the works, in fact the main body of the regiment was still pouring in over the parapet, when scattered bodies of troops emerged from the swamp and woods on the right, followed directly by their main body, and entered the works from that direction. Almost at the same instant the soldiers who had been HOW THE TROOPS CAME IA T . 148 operating on the right appeared around the left of the work, and in a moment what might be called a river of men swarmed in from both directions. These troops which had been working their way forward against either flank of the enemy were well advanced to positions very near the fort when General Foster ordered the Ninth to charge, and they had seized the proper moment to make the final rush; therefore, they arrived in the battery almost at the same moment and nearly simultaneous with the Ninth, although they came around the flanks of the works — not over the ditch and parapet. As a matter of fact the troops which came toward the right of the battery had their colors at their front when they emerged from the swamp, and planted them on the parapet before the color- bearers of the Ninth, who, from the nature of the ground, and the way in which the regiment doubled on itself when the charge began — which prevented them from getting near the front during its continuance — could pass theirs up over the ditch to their comrades on the parapet. The men of the Ninth, who consid- ered themselves veterans as compared with the other regiments, were not slow in according to each of them full credit for their resolute conduct during the battle. They had been exposed for 1 44 NINTH REGIMENT, NEW YORK VOLUNTEERS. hours to a galling and destructive fire from an entrenched and unseen foe, and their losses more eloquently than words, tell of their bravery and firmness throughout the trying ordeal. This meager account of the charge of the 9th New York at the battle of Roanoke Island is due solely to the fact that it is restricted to incidents which occurred under the immediate observation of the writer and as his opportuni- ties for observation were limited the narative must necessarily be so also. No doubt many stirring incidents and acts of gallantry occurred, which he would have proudly recorded had he witnessed them, but his field of observation was very limited just then. The men of the Ninth who were first in the enemy's works, who had secured and main- tained a leading position in the charge and had arrived on the parapet in advance of their comrades, enjoyed the privilege of viewing an awe-inspiring spectacle, namely, the charging regiment of a thousand men sweeping toward them like an irresistible torrent, their eyes aflame with passion and faces distorted by the tigerish instinct and the desire to kill, aroused by the sight of their slain and wounded comrades. Soldiers often discuss among themselves WHY ASSA UL TS ARE SUCCESSFl L. 1 45 the whys and wherefores of victory or defeat, and the reasons why troops behind earthworks protected by a shoulder-high parapet and a wide and deep ditch, will permit themselves to be dislodged by others from the outside, who must, in order to do so, overcome the obstacles in front of the works, wade the ditch and climb the steep face of the parapet in the face of the fire, and opposed by the bayonets of the de- fenders. To these men of the Ninth who, on this occasion, gained the parapet in advance of the mass of the regiment, and had one back- ward glance at the rushing, shouting torrent of savage humanity below them, it was no longer a mystery. The appearance of this seemingly irresistible wave of maddened men rushing toward them seems to strike terror into the de- fenders, and hope of successful resistance is abandoned and they fly — Sauve qui pent — with- out waiting for the real struggle to begin. This scattered few of the Ninth who first mounted the parapet (not separated from the regiment at all, simply the first) were from several companies. They arrived in time to see the last of the rebel defenders disappearing among the trees towards their rear. During the minute that elapsed before the reforming of the regiment began, they had time to notice that this place, which for several hours had 146 NINTH REGIMENT, NEW YORK VOLUNTEERS. been the center of a maelstrom of bullets and shells and struggling men, was just then singularly quiet and peaceful like. A few dead men lay near the guns, one lying on his back beside the big Dahlgren with the lanyard still in his hand. As the regiment moved out of the place a few moments afterward, a number of others were seen just outside the work all decently arranged in rows. Charles Curie, of Company C, who was one of the group which first reached the parapet, relates that as he lingered for an instant to catch a general view of the situation, before joining with the others of his company — who were rapidly arriving — in reforming it, his attention was attracted by a body of soldiers emerging from the swamp on the right of the battery and a little in rear of it. They appeared to be from two different organizations, each had a flag, one a white State ensign, and the other a United States regimental color. There appeared to be about a company of each. They were close together and Curie's attention was specially arrested by the way in which they advanced out of the thickets. Instead of rush- ing forward, as might be expected, each one ap- peared to be wholly engrossed in a strained effort to maintain a correct alignment, their WHA T CURIE SAW. 147 officers being active in their efforts to preserve an imposing front. When they saw the fort and the situation, each of the color bearers, with several others, ran directly toward the parapet, evidently breaking away from the control of their officers, and each planted his flag on the work at about the same moment. At the same instant another and larger group separated from both bodies and rushed to the flag-staff of the fort, which was at least fifty paces in rear of the guns, and hauled down the rebel flag which the enemy in their sudden flight had left flying, and struggled fiercely among themselves for possession of it. All these occurrences took place in an instant. They flashed into view and became sensible to the eye like an instantaneous photograph. While chagrin at the loss of this opportunity was still in a nebulous shape in his mind, and a deter- mination was forming to take a hand in the fight for the rebel flag, Corporal Latham A. Fish, of his company, directed him to "fall in," and Curie took his place in the ranks and in a few moments, with the rest of the regiment, was moving up the road in pursuit of the enemy. There was very little delay in resuming the advance after the place had been taken. All of the enemy had disappeared except such as 148 NINTH REGIMENT, NEW YORK VOLUNTEERS. were too badly wounded to get away un- assisted. The various companies were im- mediately reformed by their respective first- sergeants and without an instant's delay pushed forward in pursuit of the rapidly re- treating enemy. In the plan of the defenses of the island, this battery (Fort Defiance) was the key, and when captured it permitted the other forts to be attacked from the rear, when, with the fleet in front, and the infantry well posted in the rear, further resistance was useless and nothing remained for the garrisons but to surrender. The "Ninth" was sent to the right of the road by General Reno, and succeeded in cap- turing a number of prisoners who were endeav- oring to escape through Shallow Bag Bay, among them being Capt. O. Jennings Wise, a son of Governor Wise, of Virginia. He was very severely wounded and died from the effects next day. Early in the evening of his capture, after his wounds had been dressed by Assistant Surgeon White, he was taken to the house of a Mr. Jarvis, which was being used for a hospital and near which the regiment was in bivouac, and while being carried past the men who had pressed forward to look at him, he extended his hand, in a gesture, toward them and said: CAPTAIN WISE'S OPINION. 1 49 "You are the only men who fought to-day." Afterward, just before his death, while in con- versation with Major Kimball, he stated that in his opinion the battery could have defied all the troops on the island for days, had the fighting aeainst it been continued in the same manner o in which it was carried on during the morning, or until the arrival of the "Red Caps," as he designated them. He said that at the begin- ning of the charge he thought the regiment had been utterly annihilated by the grape and canister when the men threw themselves on the ground, when the artillery first opened on them, but when they again sprang to their feet and rushed forward with yells, their men fled more frightened than hurt. "We were actually scared from our position," he said. The other troops pushed on rapidly up the road and captured the main camp of the enemy with a large number of men, then dividing into detachments they moved on the other three forts which were still engaging the gunboats, and demanded their surrender, which was acceded to. Long before nightfall all firing had ceased. The forts on the Roanoke Sound side of the island had surrendered ; the various bodies of the enemy's troops had thrown down their arms and been placed under guard, and the victorious troops went into bivouac. ISO NINTH REGIMENT, NEW YORK VOLUNTEERS. There was a saying among soldiers during the war which was to the effect " That nothing- is easier than to show how to win a battle that has just been lost." This was, as true of the battle of Roanoke Island as of any of the others fought during the Rebellion. When it was learned that the prisoners taken numbered sev- eral thousand, it seemed unexplainable why the enemy had not brought them all into action and utilized them at and near the interior bat- tery to defend that place. Had they done so it would seem they could easily have prevented the Union troops from crossing the swamp at all, which it was afterward discovered ex- tended clear across the island from one shore to the other, and was an excellent place at which to establish a line of defense. As it was, they appeared to have had only a few hundred men actually engaged at that place, while the bulk of their forces remained idly in their camps and rendered no assistance whatever to the comparatively few who were engaged. The fight lasted several hours, giving ample time for them not only to reinforce the point at- tacked, but to make disposition of their troops at their leisure. Such portions of the official reports of the generals in command, as related directly to the 9th New York, are given, as follows : OFFICIAL REPORTS OF THE BATTLE. 151 General Foster, the ranking officer present and in actual command, says: "After the engagement had lasted sometime, the 9th New York coming on the field, I directed General Parke to order it to charge. The order was given, and the regiment charged at a run with yells, cheered by the other troops, right up the road at the battery. Major Kimball of this regiment, exhibited marked gallantry, leading the charge by several rods." General Parke, who commanded the brigade of which the Ninth was a part, in his report says : "It being now ascertained that the natural obstacles on this line (the original line of attack), were of so serious a character, and that the delay in the progress of the troops through the swamps was so great, it was decided to change the course of the 9th New York, and the order was sent to the Colonel to turn to the left and charge the battery directly up the road, and the regiment with a hearty yell and cheer, struck into the road, and made for the battery on the run. "The order was given to charge the enemy with fixed bayonets. This was done in gallant style, Major Kimball taking the lead. The Major was very conspicuous during the movement, and I take great pleasure in commending him to your favorable notice." Careful research among the "Official Records" has failed to find mention of a bayonet charge at an earlier date than the above, and we will leave the discovery of such to others. General Burnside, in his report to the War Department, says : * * * "After Reno had cleared the road Parke's brigade arrived and was ordered by Foster to support the 23d and 27th Massachusetts, who were turning the enemy's left flank. The 4th Rhode Island led the movement, and just as the 9th New York entered the wood, following it, Foster and Parke found that Reno's appearance on the enemy's left had staggered him, and they decided to order the gth New York to charge the battery in front, which was instantly done, and at once the road was filled with a sea of red caps, the air resounding with their cheers. * * * The merit of first entering the fort is claimed by the 21st Massachusetts and the 51st New York." 152 NINTH REGIMENT, NEW YORK VOLUNTEERS. Captain Thomas H. Parker, of the 51st Penn- sylvania, in his history of that regiment, says: "While nearly on the flank of the works (referring to position of 51st Pennsylvania), and making efforts to get across to the fort, a distance of about 150 yards, the 9th New York charged in solid column up the road into the fort, capturing the three guns, etc." Frank Vizitelly, the well known war corre- spondent and artist for the London Illustrated News, was just in the rear of the Ninth when the charge was made. He made a drawing of it, which was published in his paper and was repro- duced afterward and published by a New York illustrated paper. After the excitement of the fight was over he sought an introduction to Colonel Hawkins, whom he complimented very highly on the conduct of the regiment, saying the charge was the best thing he had ever seen done by a green regiment and congratulated him upon being its commander. Mr. Vizitelly had seen service in various lands, and under many conditions, and his commendations were of the highest value, com- ing as they did from one who was perfectly impartial in his feelings toward any or all of the regiments engaged, and whose opinion and judgment were valuable by reason of his ex- perience. The following is a copy of Colonel Hawkins' report to his immediate superior : COLONEL HAWKINS 1 REPORT. 153 Roanoke Island, N. C, Feb. 9, 1862. Brig.-General John G. Parke. General: — Agreeably to your orders the Ninth New York Volunteers disembarked from the transports and landed upon the Island on the evening of the 7th inst. The next morning the regiment, with others of your brigade, were ordered out to reinforce the brigades of Generals Reno and Foster, which had been engaged about two and one-half hours. Upon reaching the battle-ground I was ordered to outflank the enemy on their left, where they were in position behind an entrenchment mounting three guns. After leading the Ninth New York into a marsh immediately in front of the enemy's works, under a heavy fire from them of grape and musketry, the order was given to charge the rebels with fixed bayonets. This was done in gallant style, Major Kimball taking the lead. The enemy's works were soon carried and hastily abandoned by them. All officers and men of the regiment behaved with great gallantry and bravery; it is impossible to say who is most deserving, or who merits the most applause. In my opinion all deserve credit and praise alike. After this we were ordered to pursue the rebels, which we did, and succeeded in taking 'some forty prisoners ; among them were several officers and men of the Richmond Blues, who had composed a part of the Wise Legion, with Captain O. Jennings Wise at their head, who was badly wounded and was trying to make his escape to Nag's Head. I regret that I have to report the death of M. De Monteil, Lieut.-Colo- nel of the D'Epaneuil Zouaves, who^went into the fight with the Ninth New York as a volunteer. He was killed instantly while nobly urging my men on to the charge. He dies greatly lamented by all the officers and men of the regiment who came in contact with him. His bravery was as great as his patriotism was sincere, and I cannot but feel that had he lived he would have proved a most valuable officer. The Ninth New York had two officers and thirteen privates wounded. Very respectfully yours, etc., RUSH C. HAWKINS, Colonel Ninth New York Volunteers. That night the " Ninth" occupied a cornfield near a house which during the day had been turned into a hospital for the rebels, and which was now crowded with the wounded of both sides, and the shrieks and groans were pitiful in the extreme. Again it rained hard the entire 154 NINTH REGIMENT, NEW YORK VOLUNTEERS. night, but the men were too exhausted to mind the elements, and slept soundly through it all. They had been on foot continuously from the previous afternoon when ordered to "fall in" for disembarkation and from that time until arms were stacked in the cornfield on the night of the 8th, not one man in twenty of the entire regiment had sat down for a moment. All had been soaked to the skin by the rain of the previous night, as well as by the mud and w r ater in swamp and ditch during the assault, and had reached the conclusion that there was just a trifle too much water " in their n." Both officers and men were young and in rugged health, while out-of-door life and plenty of exercise with abundance of plain food (hard- tack, coffee and salt-horse), enabled all, with the exception of the unfortunates on guard duty, to rise the following morning refreshed and ready and willing for any duty they might be called upon to perform. For several days fol- lowing they were busily occupied in securing captured arms, guarding and otherwise caring for prisoners and performing other duties of a similar character. The prisoners were several thousands in number, and a most motley crew they were. The conditions under which they were viewed were the worst possible. The rain had fallen THE PRISONERS AS THEY APPEARED. 155 in torrents almost continuously for more than forty-eight hours, and their clothing was soaked and heavy with it. They were, so to speak, rounded up like a herd of cattle in a convenient field, absolutely without shelter and surrounded by a line of guards. Above all, they were beaten men, defeated on their own ground, prisoners in their own camps, melancholy and discouraged, and it was difficult to repress a feeling of pity for the poor unfortunates. They seemed to be Virginians, Georgians and North Carolinians principally. Most of them were clothed in a plain, serviceable, soldier-like uni- form, and armed in military style. These were principally Georgians. A number of the Vir- ginians sported militia uniforms of the style and fashion of the period of the Mexican War. There were also independent companies armed with whatever kind of firearm the individual owned when he entered the service, single or double-barrel shot gun, rifle or musket. Num- bers of them were supplied with a weapon which appeared to be a combination of knife and sword. These were plainly of home manu- facture, having been forged on an anvil ; some were fitted with wooden hilts, the blade being from fifteen to twenty-four inches long, and somewhat similar in shape to a sword bayonet. A cord several feet long was attached to the 156 NINTH REGIMENT, NEW YORK VOLUNTEERS. hilt, which was for the purpose of enabling the wearer to recover the weapon after it had been hurled at the enemy. When the manner of using this sword was explained to him by a prisoner, one of Company As men expressed his opinion of the efficiency of the weapon by remarking: "While you was foolin' round me with that thing I would be pickin' your teeth with this bayonet." Several of these companies were, or rather had been, happy owners of really handsome silk flags, the name of the companies being skill- fully embroidered upon them. One bore the appellation "Tar River Rangers," another, of which even some of the " tar heels " and "tur- pentine scrapers" seemed ashamed, was em- blazoned " Yankee Fool Killers." CHAPTER VII. EXPEDITIONS TO NAG'S HEAD AND WINTON, N. C. NINTH REGIMENT GARRISONS ROANOKE ISLAND — RESIGNATION OF LIEUTENANT- COLONEL BETTS — EXPEDITION UNDER MA- JOR JARDINE EXPEDITION TO SOUTH MILLS — TERRIFIC MARCH — BATTLE OF SOUTH MILLS OR CAMDEN — HEAVY LOSS OF THE NINTH — DEATH OF ADJUTANT GADSDEN — RETURN TO ROANOKE — RETROSPECTION — GENERAL RENO'S REPORT OF BATTLE — COLONEL HAWKINS' REPORT. THE battle of Roanoke Island was fought on the 8th of February, 1862. The following day was a busy one for the regiment, being spent in gathering the scattered prisoners and securing them, as well as in furnishing details to guard and escort them, and to take charge of captured camps and stores in and about the forts and batteries. The regiment did not act as a whole, but in detachments, at the various points where their services were required. That night the command reassembled and bi- vouacked in the woods. 1S8 NINTH REGIMENT, NEW YORK VOLUNTEERS. When morning came they were marched to the shore of Croaton Sound and again boarded the transports in which they had come from Hatteras. They were glad, indeed, to return to their old quarters and " seek the seclusion that the cabin grants." Hardly had the various companies arrived on their respective vessels, however, than an order was received for a de- tail of two companies for a reconnaissance to Nag's Head. This was a summer watering place much patronized by well-to-do Virginians be- fore the war, situated on the narrow neck of mainland between Roanoke Sound and the ocean. It was nearly opposite Roanoke Island and distant therefrom five or six miles. But the fleet lay on the westerly side of the island, which it was necessary to circumnavigate in order to reach the desired point, and this added very much to the distance to be sailed to reach Nag's Head. Companies B and H were desig- nated for the detail. They were ordered to " fall in " for this duty just as they had begun to cook their rations for the first " square meal " they had had since they left the transports, three days before. Hungry stomachs and wist- ful eyes turned reluctantly from the savory odors of sputtering pork and steaming coffee, as each man followed his duty, and as their more fortunate comrades smacked their lips RECONNAISSANCE TO NAG'S HEAD. 1 59 over their meal, the boys of B and H, under the immediate command of Colonel Hawkins, hurried aboard the steamer "Picket." The officers of the " Picket," however, generously provided the boys with coffee and crackers, which revived their flagging spirits, and as a sense of comfort gradually stole over them the nervous tension relaxed and they broke forth in song and jest and gleeful antics, much to the edification and amusement of the sailors. Not- withstanding the fact that the vessel was very much overcrowded, and that rain and snow fell alternately throughout the night, a very comfor- table time was passed. After they had accomplished the object of the reconnaissance the troops returned on the steamer to the transports. The following is Colonel Hawkins' report of the reconnaissance: Steamer "Virginia," Feb. n, 1S62. Gen. J. G. Parke: General: — In accordance with orders received from you on the 10th inst. , I proceeded with two companies of the Ninth New York Volun- teers on board the steamer " Picket " to Nag's Head, and this morning landed at the wharf opposite to where the hotel formerly stood. I learned that General Wise left there about an hour and a half before sundown last Saturday, taking with him about three hundred and fifty men belonging to the " Wise Legion." Wise, in order to carry out the plans of the vandals and ruffians (the tribe to which he belongs), burned the hotel and several of the resi- dences, destroying a large amount of property, but little use to anyone. Very respectfully yours, RUSH C HAWKINS, Colonel Ninth New York Volunteers. 160 NINTH REGIMENT, NEW YORK VOLUNTEERS. Meanwhile the prisoners captured on Roa- noke Island had been sent North, and a survey of new fields for conquest made. A rumor reached the commander of the forces that cer- tain loyal North Carolinians at Winton, on the Chowan River, were seeking a junction with the Union forces. This rumor caused the General to send the larger portion of the fleet of gun- boats, together with the 9th New York, to Winton to succor them. The fleet for this expedition mounted thirty-three guns and was commanded by Commodore Rowan. At noon on the 18th the little fleet started, but when about half the distance had been covered anchored for the night. On the follow- ing day when but a short distance from Winton, and while proceeding up the river in single file Commodore Rowan on the " Delaware " being ahead, closely followed by the " Perry," commanded by Lieutenant-Commander Flus- ser, with Company A, of the Ninth, on board, the other companies being distributed among the fleet, it was suddenly fired upon with both artillery and musketry from the shore. The call " to quarters " was beaten, every man slipped into his place, and in less than sixty seconds such a shower of 9-inch Dahlgren and 100-pound Parrot shells began to fall around and among the enemy on shore, that their fire THE A TTA CK ON THE G I WBOA TS. 161 ceased at once and they scattered and tem- porarily disappeared. They nevertheless man- aged to keep up an ineffective musketry fire from sheltered places. As it was late in the day and falling dusk it was not thought judi- cious to attempt a landing then, so the fleet dropped down the river to a point where it was wide enough to afford a place for easy defense. Flusser with the " Perry " covered this move- ment. When the Confederates saw that the fleet was retiring they evidently supposed it had been beaten off, as they appeared in con- siderable force on both banks of the river, their mounted men riding along abreast of the " Perry," keeping up an intermittent musketry fire. Occasionally there came a shot from a field gun, but there was no damage done, and they found the return fire from 9-inch cannon quite interesting. While the vessels were at anchor the men learned for the first time that there had been another object in view for the expedition in addition to the rescue of the alleged loyalists. This was the destruction of the bridges over the Nottoway and Blackwater Rivers, of the Roanoke and Seaboard R.R. For this purpose small packages of oakum and kindling wood were distributed among the men. On the following morning the fleet again pro- 1 62 NINTH REGIMENT, NE // ' ) r ORK J VL I NTEERS. ceeded up the river to Winton, carefully shell- ing the adjacent woods and the town. The regiment was landed, and while part of it occu- pied the town, strong detachments were thrown forward on all the roads leading into the country, in search of the enemy. Plenty of evidence was visible that the place had been re- cently occupied by a strong force, and that it was a depot of supplies for the Confederate army. On account of the quantities of military stores found, which it was then impossible to take away, and for other reasons, which are set forth in Colonel Hawkins' report, it was decided to burn the town. This was done, the troops remaining until the fire was well under way and the total destruction of the place was assured, when they retired to the gunboats. This affair, which gave warning to the enemy and prevented anything in the nature of a sur- prise taking place, made the pursuance of the bridge-burning project impracticable, and it was abandoned. The story concerning loyalists who were reported to be so anxious to join the Union forces proved to be a myth. None but enemies were found at Winton. The fleet returned to Roanoke Island and the troops joined the others in preparing for an advance on Newberne, which was decided to be the next point of attack. COLONEL HAWKINS' REPORT. 163 Colonel Hawkins' official report of this affair is as follows : Steamer "Virginia," Roanoke Island, N. C., Feb. 21, 1862. Brig. -General J. G. Parke: General: — In accordance with your orders of the 16th inst., I called upon Commodore Rowan, and made arrangements to embark my regi- ment on board some of the gunboats of his division for the purpose of proceeding up the Blackwater and Nottoway rivers, and destroying the bridges over them of the Roanoke and Seaboard Railroad. At 12 o'clock M. of the 18th inst., the regiment was embarked and the expedition got under way, and that night anchored off the mouth of the Roanoke river, where it remained until 10 a. m., of the following day, and then commenced its advance up the Chowan river. Nothing of importance occurred till about 3.30 p. m. , the flag steamer " Dela- ware" being about one mile ahead of any of the other boats. I was on the cross-trees of the mainmast, where I had been on the lookout for about two hours, and the steamer was within three hundred and fifty yards of the wharf at Winton, when I discovered that the high bank we were rapidly approaching was covered with Confederate soldiers. I immediately gave the alarm, but not in time to change the course of the boat until she had got within one hundred yards of the shore, when we received the fire of seven hundred infantry or more, which continued until we had passed up the river out of range, when we turned about and began shelling the town, the enemy returning the fire with four pieces of field artillery from the shore. In the mean- time the gunboat " Perry" having come within range, opened upon the rebels from below. Soon after the enemy was dislodged and retired, when the " Delaware " returned down the river, receiving four shots when she passed the wharf. The whole fleet came to anchor about seven miles below Winton. A consultation was held and it was then agreed to advance again next morning and burn the town if found occupied by the enemy. About ir. 30 a. m., of the 20th inst., our gunboats arrived at and took their positions, some above, some opposite and others below the town, when the guns commenced firing, giving the place an effective shelling, and in about twenty minutes my regiment landed, accom- panied by three guns under the command of Lieutenant Flusser, of the Commodore Perry. The guns were placed in position so as to command the approaches to the town, and the regiment was drawn up in line awaiting the attack of the enemy. In the meantime parties of observation and scouts were sent out in all directions. It was soon ascertained that the rebels had retreated as soon as our forces came in sight that morning, leaving everything behind excepting arms and 164 NINTH REGIMENT, NEW YORK VOLUNTEERS. accoutrements. Six companies of my regiment took possession of the main approach to the town, and I commenced making a personal in- spection of all the buildings. I found that nearly the whole had been taken possession of and occupied by the Confederate troops as quarters and store-houses. I then ordered that every building containing stores for the enemy or used by them as quarters, should be fired, and placed guards in the others to see that they were not disturbed or destroyed. The property consumed belonging to the Confederate forces, con- sisted of bacon, cornmeal, sugar, powder, mess-pans, camp kettles, haversacks, canteens, etc., the whole worth not less than $10,000. This, I believe, is the first instance during the war where on our side fire had accompanied the sword. It is to be regretted that such severe measures have to be resorted to; they can only be justified on the grounds First. Retaliation for trying to decoy us into a trap at the time of firing into the " Delaware." Evidence of this is that a negress, the property of one of the Confederate officers, was sent down to the wharf by her master to beckon us into the landing, when we were all to be slaughtered, or in the words of the negress: " Dey said that dey want gwine to let anybody lib at all, but wasgwine to kill ebery one ob 'em." We were to have received no quarter. Second. The buildings fired had been used by the rebel forces as store-houses and quarters. From information obtained at Winton, we came to the conclusion that it would be impossible to accomplish the original object and aim of the expedition, so it had to be abandoned. The forces at Winton, as near as I could ascertain, consisted of six companies of the First Battalion, North Carolina Volunteers, under command of Lieut. Col. William T. Williams, one battery of light artillery, one company of the Southampton Cavalry, and one or two companies of North Carolina Militia; the whole under the charge of Lieutenant-Colonel Williams. I am happy to inform you that none of our forces were injured. The enemy sustained some considerable loss from the fire of our gunboats on the 19th, but I am not able to state how many were either killed or wounded. The troops under my command and the officers and sailors of the gunboats behaved exceedingly well, and performed all of the various duties with promptness and alacrity. I feel greatly indebted to Commodore S. C. Rowan and the lieu- tenants in command of the gunboats, for their attention to the wants and comforts of my regiment, and also for their hearty co-operation in trying to carry out the object of the expedition. I am most faithfully, your obedient servant, RUSH C. HAWKINS, Colonel Ninth New York Volunteers. GENERAL BURNSID&S REASONS. 1 65 Within a few days after the return of the regiment from this expedition the prepara- tions for the move on Newberne were com- pleted and the expedition was ready to proceed. On the morning before it sailed from Roanoke Island, General Burnside sent for Colonel Hawkins, and upon his report- ing at headquarters, said to him : " We leave tomorrow for an attack on Newberne, and this being an important point I desire to leave it in safe hands, and shall place you in command with a sufficient force to defend it in case of an attack. I give you this important command as a mark of my appreciation of the fine con- duct of your regiment." A new brigade of three regiments designated in Orders as the " Fourth" was formed and Colonel Hawkins placed at its head and in command at Roanoke Island. His district comprised all the waters and territory northwest, north and northeast of the southern end of Croaton Sound. On the 5th of March the brigade disembarked from the transports and the regiments compos- ing it were distributed in various camps on the island, the Ninth being assigned to one formerly occupied by the rebels, and where there were commodious and well arranged barracks which they had erected for their own winter quarters. These barracks were arranged in a column of 166 NIN'IH REGIMENT, NEW YORK' VOLUNTEERS. companies and separated from each other by wide company streets, the two companies occu- pying the quarters facing the same street using it in common. The buildings were double, each facing on two company streets, with a partition running lengthwise through each dividing it into rooms for two companies, which were again divided into squad-rooms. These were provided with bunks and fireplaces. They were the best arranged and most comfortable quar- ters the regiment has thus far occupied. The transfer from a camp of mud and rain to these weather-proof and convenient quarters caused each man to feel a sense of exhilaration such as come to those who acquire wealth suddenly. The boys certainly felt that they were living in luxury. In addition to the barracks there were other buildings in the camp sufficient to accom- modate the various regimental departments, including officers' quarters and a hospital. The camp was christened Camp Reno. Company D was assigned to garrison duty at the largest of the captured forts which had formed the Con- federate stronghold. It was named Fort Reno. It had a dock and other landing facilities and soon became the principal " port of entry " of the island. It was also the principal market for such produce as the natives had to sell. The demand for poultry, eggs, pies, cookies and RESIGN A TION OF L IE UT. - COL ON EL BE TTS. 1 6 7 such articles was quite brisk and the natives were glad to supply them. It also became the place of refuge for runaway slaves, and many a pitiful tale of cruelty and terror was here related. This company having been kept numerically full by the recruits received, and having remained remarkably free from sickness, it frequently marched to dress parade an hundred strong. It called itself the " Left wing of the regiment." The non-coms, of the com- pany claimed the credit for this condition and at times were inclined to be vain glorious in consequence. This, of course, could not be tolerated by the other non-coms, of the regi- ment, and they, therefore, determined to " cut the combs " of the Company D fellows, which they proceeded to do, with more or less success and satisfaction. Soon after the capture of Roanoke Island Lieutenant-Colonel Betts tendered his resigna- tion and returned to New York, February 14, 1862. He was a thorough soldier and his loss was deeply regretted by the regiment. He was an excellent drill-officer, perfect master of regi- mental and brigade tactics, and it was in a large measure due to his persistent efforts that the Zouaves attained their noted proficiency in drill. The Newberne expedition sailed on March 1 68 NINTH REGIMENT, NE W YORK VOL UNTEERS. 7th, when Colonel Hawkins assumed command of the Fourth Brigade and Post, the command of the regiment devolving on Captain Jardine, who a few days later was promoted to be Major and was presented with a fine set of equipments by his late Company G. Major Kimball was on leave of absence but returned on the 24th wearing a lieutenant- colonel's uniform, he having received his com- mission to that grade while at home. He was welcomed back with three-times-three rousing cheers, for the boys recognized him as an old comrade, tried and true. The regiment now settled down to the old routine of drill and parade, guard mount, and fatigue duty, which comprises the military life while in garrison. To the great delight of the old sergeant of regulars at Newport News who trained him, Corporal Searing, of Company D, had acquired great skill in artillery drill, and he now bent his energies to transmit that skill to the others of his company now stationed at Fort Reno. As a result they soon became quite ex- pert under his instructions. The monotony of camp and garrison life on the island was frequently broken by incursions into the enemy's country, which were either organized by Colonel Hawkins or ordered by superior authority. EXPEDITION UP THE PASQUOTAUK 169 On April 7th Companies H and I, under command of Major Jardine, with six companies of the 6th New Hampshire Volunteers, the whole under command of Lieutenant-Colonel Griffin of the 6th New Hampshire, boarded the gunboats and steamed across Albermarle Sound up the Pasquotank river to Elizabeth City, where, landing, they surprised two companies of North Carolina militia, who stampeded without offer- ing any resistance, casting away their weapons and flying in great disorder to the woods. They were rapidly pursued and seventy-three men belonging to the First Brigade, North Carolina Militia, were captured, brought to Camp Reno and guarded by the Ninth. One of the Zouaves thus refers to them in his diary : "They were, indeed, a motley set; some had straw hats, others of felt and of nearly every color. Many had gray coats, some black, others brown, and one none at all. The other articles of dress con- formed to the same variety. A little tow-head corporal (the highest rank among them), about fourteen years old, was the only one who could write his name. " I was Sergeant of the Guard over them, and allowed them to come out to the line that they might see a dress parade worth looking at. They were very much pleased, and said they ' really believed it was of no use fighting against men like those.' " They all took the oath of allegiance, and were permitted to return to their homes. It was evident that the enemy were expecting some sort of demonstration toward the rear of Norfolk, by the Union troops as they had 170 NINTH REGIMENT, NEW YORK VOLUNTEERS. erected batteries along the line of the canal leading to that place, and had stationed a force at South Mills, some twelve miles distant from Camden. It was soon shown that the enemy was right in preparing for an attack in that direction, for about the 16th of April Colonel Hawkins was ordered to proceed with his brigade to Eliza- beth City and from there advance against the rebels at South Mills, thereby making a dem- onstration against Norfolk. Orders were issued for each regiment to be in readiness to move with fifty rounds of cart- ridges, three days' rations, axes and shovels, and on April 18th the brigade, consisting of the 9th and 89th New York, and 6th New Hamp- shire regiments, started on transports for Eliza- beth City. The following is an extract from General Order No. 12 : "The duty which this force is called upon to endure being dangerous and difficult, and it having a very long and arduous march to per- form, none but men capable of undergoing the greatest fatigue will be allowed to accompany it. Commanding officers are especially en- joined to see that this part of the order is strictly enforced." At the time these orders were received and EXPEDITION TO CAMDEN. 171 the expedition started, Colonel Hawkins had no knowledge that any troops in addition to his own were to take part in it, and he was therefore surprised to meet General Reno with two regiments — 21st Massachusetts and 51st Pennsylvania — near the mouth of the river. Reno at once assumed command, and ordered Colonel Hawkins to land his brigade at a place called Shantilly, and immediately proceed with all dispatch to a bridge which crossed the Pas- quotank river, some two miles from South Mills, and to surprise the enemy who was presumed to be stationed there. Reno was to follow as soon as the troops on the other steamers, which were delayed by grounding, could be landed. Considerable delay was caused by the troops being compelled to use small boats in making a landing. From these the men were obliged to jump when near the shore, and wade through mud and water to reach the bank. It was after 3 o'clock a.m. before the column finally moved. Here commenced a march which for length and duration was of the most extraordinary nature, and to this day no one seems able to explain why such a roundabout route was chosen. Two plain, direct and level roads led from Elizabeth City to South Mills, the one running east of the Pasquotank river being 1 72 NINTH REGIMENT, NEW YORK VOLUNTEERS. twelve miles, and the one west of the river fifteen miles in length, over a level and inhab- ited country. It remains one of the inex- plicable mysteries why one or the other of these was not taken and followed until South Mills was reached. The advance guard soon after starting encountered the rebel pickets and fired on them, but they being mounted rapidly disappeared to give notice of the approaching column. At daybreak, which ushered in an in- tensely hot day, a short stop was made for rest and to allow the men to eat their rations. Re- suming the march the column moved forward with rapidity, the desire being to reach the ob- jective point and defeat the enemy before he should be reinforced from Norfolk. As they advanced, the sun rose over the trees like a great red ball of flame, or like an angry spirit mercilessly threatening a scorching day. The marching troops pulverized the dry ground into fine dust so that it covered every man as a garment. As the sun's rays came down more direct the atmosphere became intensely hot and perspiration oozed from every pore. The clouds of dust entered eyes, mouths and nos- trils, filling the air passages, obscuring the vis- ion, and parching the throats of the men until they found it difficult to breathe and all went struggling and gasping along, weighted down A TRYING MARCH— APRIL NINETEENTH. 173 with their muskets, ammunition and haver- sacks, wondering at what men could endure and live. A halt was made about nine o'clock, but too brief to permit the making of fires for cooking purposes and the men were obliged to eat hurriedly of hard-tack and salt-horse, the latter adding to the crav- ing for water. Again resuming the line of march under constantly increasing difficulties of travel, it gradually dawned upon the men that the main road had been abandoned, as the way now led along byways through fields and plantations. Meanwhile the oppressive heat grew more oppressive, and the tired soldiers grew weaker. Water was very scarce and a consuming thirst added to the pangs already endured. Many sank to the ground overcome by heat or exhaustion, and were left to recover as best they could. The stern command of " Close up ! close up, men ! " ever ringing in the ears of the jaded soldiers compelled them to still advance. Word was passed along the line that this day was the 19th of April, the anniversary of the organization of the regiment and also of the battle of Lexington, and this for a time served to spur the drooping spirits of the wearied troops, by recalling to their memory the patriotic spirit of '76, and for a while they forgot their 174 XIXTH REGIMENT, NEW YORK VOLUNTEERS. sufferings in the hope that this clay might again prove a memorable one in the annals of the nation. About noon when every one was nearly exhausted by the rapid march and the intense heat, a column of troops was seen approaching along a road running at right angles to the one over which the brigade was marching. It proved to be the 21st Massachusetts and 51st Pennsylvania accompanied by General Reno. These troops did not start from the place of landing until after 7 a.m., but, having followed the direct road they had marched less than half the distance covered by the Fourth brigade. They were greatly surprised that Hawkins' men had not yet found the enemy. These men were in fairly good condition, while those in Hawkins' column were nearly all ready to drop from fatigue, and from the usual accompaniment of blistered and bloody feet, aggravating chafes and other causes incident to a long forced march by troops so long in camp and on transports, that they were, compara- tively, "soft." A march like this once experi- enced, can never be forgotten by the soldier. After a short rest it was resumed with Reno's brigade and two guns of Company K's battery in advance. At about one o'clock the enemy was found posted in a strong position on both sides of the OPENING OF THE BATTLE. 175 road. They opened fire as soon as the head of the Union column came within range. The batteries, consisting of K's guns and those of the New York Marine Artillery, un- limbered in the road, and a spirited duel ensued, gun answering gun. The 21st Massachusetts and 51st Pennsyl- vania were sent to the right by General Reno to turn the enemy's left, and when Hawkins' brigade arrived it was ordered forward, with instructions for two regiments to follow, to support the 21st and 51st, while the third, the 6th New Hampshire, supported the batteries. The artillery on both sides meanwhile kept up a steady and rapid fire. The Ninth moved for- ward and after proceeding a short distance turned from the main road and moved to the rieht through the ed^e of the woods where it halted, and awaited orders, keeping under cover of the woods out of sight of the enemy's artillery-men. Lieutenant-Colonel Kimball who commanded the regiment rode out into the open ground in front, in plain view of the enemy, and after a short inspection of the ground and of the situa- tion returned and reported : "Nothing but solid shot, boys, we don't care for that." But the boys evidently did not agree with the Colonel just then as there 176 NINTH REGIMENT, NEW YORK VOLUNTEERS. was some lively dodging when a shot or shell came unpleasantly close to their heads and they felt that there were far more pleasant places to be found* than the present one. At this point Colonel Hawkins personally assumed command of the Zouaves and led them forward in an assault on the enemy's position. We quote from an article of his on this battle, afterward published in the Century Magazine: " The action had continued for about an hour (chiefly artillery), when I concluded to make an observation in an open cornfield, directly in front of the rebel center. I proceeded to a fence within a hundred yards of the edge of the clearing, heard no firing of infantry, concluded the rebels had been silently outflanked on their left by the 21st Massa- chusetts and 51st Pennsylvania, and thought my regiment might get across the cornfield and capture the battery which still continued the action. I returned and described what I proposed to do, and asked the men if they thought they were equal to the undertaking. Although nearly exhausted by their long march they signified their willingness to try. Arriving at the fence the regiment was formed in line of battle and commenced to move over the field. When within fifty yards of the edge of the clearing the right companies received the concentrated fire of the whole of the enemy's infantry and artillery, and in less than two minutes lost nine killed and fifty-eight wounded." This movement of the "Ninth" was made independent of the other troops and was en- tirely unsupported. The situation just before it was made was as follows: All the troops in the command except Battery K and Colonel Howard's Marine Artillery were sheltered from the view of the enemy by the woods. The position of the rebels was on the farther side of a level clearing. The land " INTO THE MO UTH OF HELL. " 177 being perfectly flat and presenting the appear- ance of having been reclaimed from the swamp. It was in the " Dismal Swamp " country. The several fields were separated by deep ditches, apparently for drainage purposes, with rail fences on top of the dykes. The enemy's infantry occupied one of the ditches at the edge of the woods on the farther side of the field, which made an excellent rifle-pit, affording good protection to their men. The farm buildings had been burned, leaving the perfectly level plantation without the slightest protection to, or any spot which could be used as a coign of vantage by, advancing troops, while the ditches were partly filled with burning rails, the smoke from which deceived as to distance. The charging Zouaves naturally expected to find the riflemen where the clouds of smoke were rising. The regiment advanced deliber- ately into this field, marching by the flank, moved "forward into line," and received the order to charge with the bayonet. The enemy did not open their musketry fire until the Zouaves had advanced some distance. When they did open fire a literal rain of grape, shrap- nel and bullets swept the exhausted men before it. They fell like grain before the sickle. The entire loss of the regiment occur- red here in an incredibly short time. Colonel 178 NINTH REGIMENT, NEW YORK VOLUNTEERS. Hawkins and Major Jardine were wounded, while Lieutenant-Colonel Kimball had his horse shot from under him, and in his fall was temporarily disabled — he was the only mounted officer present. At least two of the senior captains were hors de combat, the adjutant killed, and no one for the moment knew who was in com- mand. Even under these desperate conditions the regiment did not give way. The men recoiled for an instant, but responding at once to the commands of the surviving officers, again attempted to advance. The deadly fire of the enemy was steadily maintained without cessa- tion, the artillerists continued to fire low, grapeshot skimming along the surface of the ground like swallows, and plainly visible to the eye. There was no opportunity to inflict any damage on the enemy as they were completely masked by the smoke from the ditches and from their own guns. They exhibited good strategy in utilizing the ditches, for in those where the rails had been consumed the ground was still too hot to be used by the men of the Ninth for shelter, and their exposed posi- tion in the open ground was preferable to roasting, even in "the last ditch." Human nature could not long withstand this fire of iron and lead. To advance was impos- IN THE MIDST OF BA TTLE. 1 79 sible, while to turn their backs to the foe was not in the province of the Zouaves. Some one gave the order "right oblique," and the regi- ment moved to the shelter of the woods on the right. A regiment which could not be fully identi- fied but believed to be the 89th New York, double-quicked out of the wood to the right and rear of the " Ninth," and gaining a position where they could fire past the left-flank of the regiment, halted, came to a front and began firing by wing as steadily and apparently as methodically as though on drill, the volleys following each other with as much regularity as if at practice on the parade-ground. This created a diversion in favor of the " Ninth," which gained the shelter of the woods without much further loss, where it was instantly re- formed by Kimball (who had recovered from his accident) when they again advanced and occupied the enemy's line with no more casual- ties. Reno had promptly thrown forward his other regiments in order to support and make a diversion in favor of the " Ninth," all instantly advancing and opening fire. This was too much for the "Johnnies" who had "shot their bolt," and they retreated in disorder leaving everything in the nature of camp equipage 180 NINTH REGIMENT, NEW YORK VOLUNTEERS. behind them, though managing to save their artillery. The Union troops were too exhausted to pursue the enemy and the Zouaves occu- pied their abandoned brush shelters. Adjutant Charles A. Gadsden, who met his death in this battle had recently been commis- sioned in the regiment, and reported for duty about two weeks previous to this engagement, and in that short period had gained the good opinion of officers and men. He died gallantly at the head of the regiment in the honorable performance of his duties as a soldier. He had been a member of the 7th New York State Militia, had thoroughly studied his duties as adjutant, and was doubtless gratified to be assigned to a regiment where his knowledge would prove of benefit and be duly appreciated. Lieutenant Gadsden reported to Lieutenant- Colonel Kimball for duty, and was present at dress-parade on the first evening of his arrival in camp. After seeing the parade he concluded that for the present, at least, it would be better to learn than to teach, so he asked for and received permission to postpone the assumption of his duties for one week. He was killed exactly one week after assuming his position as adjutant of the regiment. After consultation among the superior officers on the night of the battle it was decided that a OUT OF A BAD PREDICAMENT. 1 8 1 retreat was the proper move. This decision was reached by reviewing the facts that some of the regiments had exhausted their ammunition ; that the navy could not effect a junction with General Reno at the bridge; that the troops were far from their base of supplies while the enemy was in his own country and could be quickly reinforced ; that the men were too much exhausted to risk a battle against a superior force such as the enemy might be able to assemble; that the wounded could better be moved at once than at a later time, and espe- cially as General Reno had been ordered not to risk a disaster. Therefore, it was deemed prudent to retire, and between nine and ten o'clock at night, the men having been quietly awakened by the first sergeants, the troops began their journey back to the transports. Some of the wounded, who were unable to ride in army wagons, were left behind in charge of Surgeon Warren, of the 21st Massachusetts. Chaplain Conway, of the Ninth, also remained behind to assist the surgeon in his duties. His careful attention and almost womanly kindness and sympathy were greatly appreciated by the wounded soldiers. Soon after the battle and when the enemy had retreated rain began falling. It gradu- ally increased as the evening advanced until at 182 NINTH REGIMENT, NEW YORK VOLUNTEERS. ten o'clock it was pouring in torrents. It continued all night and as the men plodded on, the roads, which in the morning they had found thickly covered with choking dust, were now deep in slippery mud. The soldiers slipped, stumbled and plunged along in the darkness, silent as to speech and melancholy as to spirits. When a halt was ordered for a few moments' rest no consideration was given to water or mud, but each man was glad to sink down where he stood in the road, utterly indifferent to the kind of resting place he found there. Soon after daylight dull eyes were brightened by the sight of Shantilly, near which the transports were left, and the tired troops hustled aboard, the Fourth Brigade having engaged the enemy and marched over forty miles in heat, dust, mud, darkness, and rain, all in about twenty- six hours. No time was lost in getting into bunks and no case of insomnia is recorded, yet many a rain-soaked soldier, ere his eyes closed in slumber, thought of the fortunate sailor who always has his house, bunk, blankets, and grub with him, where moth and rust do not corrupt, and where mud and rain do not break in and permeate. The transports did not reach Roanoke Island until five o'clock that afternoon. There was, RE TROSPECTION. 1 8 3 therefore, some time forrest and for the drying of clothing. The uniforms of the men were in a lamentable condition from the clay gathered on the long march, and could not be cleaned until it dried. With rest came opportunity for retrospection — not always pleasant after battle, when one's intimates are among those lying stark on the battlefield or among those nursing their wounds in hospital or under the knife of the surgeon. In this instance many of the wounded had been left on the field, where, if they survived, they were sure to fall into the hands of the enemy, whose reputation for kind treatment was not good. In Company F was a number of Germans who either tented together or in adjoining tents or quarters. They formed quite a little colony, and it pleased the other boys to allude to the locality where the Germans were as " Dutch Alley." One of the members of Company F was observed sitting on a gun-carriage, his elbows on his knees and his chin in his hands, ruminating, probably, on the incidents of the fight. After moodily sitting in this position for some moments he suddenly straightened up, having apparently finished his cogitations, heaved the usual sigh and remarked, almost cheerfully : " Well, Dutch Alley got cleaned 184 NINTH REGIMENT, NEW YORK VOLUNTEERS. out, didn't it?" And Dutch Alley had been cleaned out, for nearly every one of the Germans had been either killed or wounded in this battle. It was curious to note the peculiarity of many of the wounds received by the men in this battle, as also the eccentric courses of some of the missiles. One of the Zouaves retained and brought back with him his musket which had been struck twice durinq; the en£aoement. One of the missiles struck and bent the bayonet at a right angle to the barrel, and immediately after the stock was struck and bent at the same angle but in the opposite direction. Its appearance was then best represented by the letter Z. Private Hartenfelts, of Company F, had both his thumbs shot away at the second joint. A bullet entered the mouth of Private Kelly, Company F, which probably struck his teeth and was deflected thereby, and passed upward through the nasal bones lodging between his eyes. The bullet was extracted, the wound healed, and he returned to duty, serving with his company until the muster out of the regi- ment. Eventually, however, although several years after the close of the war, the wound caused his death. A bullet struck one of the men full on his RETURN TRIP TO ROANOKE ISLAND. 185 waist-belt plate, but although it was a heavy blow and quite a shock no ill effects followed. A briar-wood pipe carried in the trousers' pocket of Private Sloper, Company C, was struck by a ball which was probably pretty well spent of its force. Upon investigation, Sloper found that he was not injured, but he found the bullet lodged in the bowl of the pipe. Many other instances are authentically, and it is believed truthfully, told of peculiar wounds and almost miraculous escapes. On the return trip to Roanoke Island Sur- geon Humphrey was very busy performing operations, dressing wounds, relieving the pain of contusions, nursing the sick, giving here a soothing potion, there a reassuring word of encouragement. He seemed to be everywhere at every moment, which if it was not so of his physical presence, it was actually so of his in- fluence. His ministrations were, indeed, cease- less, nor would he rest until all were made comfortable in their old quarters on terra firma. The official record states that the total Union loss of the battle of South Mills was one hundred and twenty-seven, including thirteen killed. Of these the Zouaves lost one officer and seven enlisted men killed, seven officers and fifty-four enlisted men wounded, and six enlisted men missing ; making a total of sev- 186 NINTH REGIMENT, NEW YORK VOLUNTEERS. enty-five. This was nearly sixty per cent, of the entire loss, and it was sustained in the short period of about two minutes. For a time after their return to Roanoke the men were subdued and quiet. There was less mischief and more philosophy. But young and bouyant spirits could not mourn long, so a few days saw the past buried and the Ninth was itself again with the old exuberant spirit. The following official reports from several sources may prove of interest to the many friends of the Zouaves. Extracts from General Reno's report, April 22, 1862 : " I proceeded from Newberne with the 21st Massachusetts and 51st Pennsylvania to Roanoke, and was there joined by the 9th and Sgth New York and 6th New Hampshire. "We proceeded directly to Elizabeth City and began disembarking on the 19th inst., at midnight, at a point about three miles below on the east side of the river. By 3 a. m., Colonel Hawkins' brigade was landed and ready to move. I ordered Hawkins to proceed at once to South Mills for the purpose of making a demonstration on Norfolk. I remained to bring up the 21st Massachusetts and 51st Pennsylvania, they having been delayed by their vessels getting aground at the mouth of the river. They came up at daylight and were landed by 7 a. m. I proceeded directly toward South Mills, and about twelve miles out met Hawkins' brigade, who, it seems, lost his way either by the treachery or incompetency of his guide, he having marched some ten miles out of his way. "As his men were very much jaded by their long march, I ordered them to follow the second brigade. Proceeding about four miles farther, to within one and one-half miles of South Mills, the rebels opened upon us with artillery before my advance guard discovered them. I immediately reconnoitered their position and found that they were posted in an advantageous position, in a line perpendicular to the road, their infantry in ditches, and their artillery commanding all the direct approaches, their rear protected by a dense forest. RENO'S REPORT OF THE BATTLE. 187 " I ordered the 51st Pennsylvania to file to the right and pass over to the edge of the woods, to turn their left, the 21st Massachusetts to pursue the same course, and, when Hawkins came up with his brigade, I sent him with the 9th and 89th New York to their support. The 6th New Hampshire were formed in line to the left of the road to support our four pieces of artillery. " Owing to the excessive fatigue of the men they could not reach their position for some time. Meantime the enemy kept up a brisk artillery fire which was gallantly responded to by Colonel Howard, of the Coast Guard, who during the entire engagement displayed most conspicuous gallantry, and rendered very efficient service both during the action and upon the return, he bringing up the rear. " Soon as the 51st Pennsylvania and the 21st Massachusetts had suc- ceeded in turning their left, they opened a brisk musketry fire, and about the same time the 9th New York, also coming into range and being too eager to engage, unfortunately charged upon the enemy's artillery. It was a most gallant charge, but they were exposed to a most deadly fire of canister, grape and musketry, and were forced to retire, but rallied immediately on the 89th New York. I then ordered both regiments to form a junction with the 21st Massachusetts. Mean- time the 51st Pennsylvania and 21st Massachusetts kept up an inces- sant fire upon the rebels, who now had withdrawn their artillery and had commenced to retire in good order. The 6th New Hampshire had steadily advanced in line to the left of the road, and when within about two hundred yards poured in a most deadly volley which com- pletely demoralized the enemy and finished the battle. Our men were so completely fagged out by the intense heat and their long march that we could not pursue them. The men rested under arms in line of battle until about 10 o'clock p.m., when I ordered a return to our boats, having accomplished the principal object of the expedition — conveying the idea that the entire Burnside expedition was marching upon Nor- folk. * * * * The return march was made in perfect order, and few, if any stragglers were left behind. " Considering that during the advance the weather was intensely hot, and that a portion of the command had to march forty-five miles, the other thirty-five miles, and fight a battle in the meantime, and that all was accomplished in less than twenty-four hours, I think that the commanding general has every reason to be satisfied with his command. * * * * Tli e enemy had from six to ten pieces of artillery, and from 1,800 to 2,000 men." Colonel Hawkins' report was made to Burn- side direct, dated April 21, 1862, and was as follows : 188 NINTH REGIMENT, NEW YORK VOLUNTEERS. Roanoke Island, N. C. "Sir: — In accordance with orders from department headquarters, I, on the 18th, at about n a.m., embarked on board of the transports about 2,000 men of my brigade from the following regiments: 9th New York, 727; 89th New York, 625 ; and 6th New Hampshire, 600. In this force was included two boat guns belonging to Company K, 9th New York. About 11 o'clock the same evening my brigade began landing at a place opposite Kobb's Point, about four miles below Elizabeth City, on the Pasquotank River. " By 2.30 on the morning of the 19th, the landing of my brigade had been completed, including two field pieces from the steamer ' Virginia;' this through the water where it was more than knee deep, which the men were compelled to wade. "At 3 a.m. the whole brigade was on the march, and continued for the next twelve hours on its weary way through a long circuitous route of thirty-two miles, beneath the terrible heat of the sun, amid the con- stantly rising dust. " At about 3 p.m. I succeeded in arriving in sight of the enemy's posi- tion with about one-half of the men who had commenced the march, when we were immediately ordered into action, the 6th New Hamp- shire going to the left of the enemy's position, the 9th and 89th New York going to the right through the woods to outflank the enemy on each side. Up to this time the part of a battery from the 9th New York worked by Lieutenant Herbert, assisted by five men (the rest having been worn out by fatigue), received and sustained the whole fire of the enemy's battery. " After marching about two miles through a swamp, covered with thick undergrowth, I arrived within about three-eights of a mile of the enemy's position, where they were concealed in the woods. After a short tour of observation, I came to the conclusion that it would be impossible to outflank them on the right, the undergrowth and swamp being almost impenetrable. "A charge through an open field directly in front of the enemy's position was thought to be the only way in which they could be dislodged. "I then returned to where I had left the 9th New York and found them lying on the ground completely exhausted. I stated to the regi- ment what I proposed to do, and asked the men if they felt equal to the task. Their answer was: ' We will try, Colonel, and follow wher- ever you may lead us.' "Immediately the command 'Forward' was given, the 9th New York taking the lead, followed by the 89th New York. We had pro- ceeded to within about 200 yards of the enemy's concealed position when the 9th New York received the full and direct fire from the COLONEL HAWKINS' REPORT. 189 enemy's infantry and batteries. This completely staggered the men, who before were completely exhausted, and the order was given for the regiment to turn to the right where it would be partly sheltered from the fire. "This order was executed but slowly. Soon after the 89th began to move forward supported by the 9th New York, when the enemy retreated. "When this commenced the 6th New Hampshire poured a volley into the right wing of the 3rd Georgia Volunteers, which completely cut them to pieces. The troops then bivouacked upon the field until 10 p.m., when they were ordered to fall in and return to their transports. It is seldom, if ever, that men have been called upon to perform so much in so short a time as those who composed the fourth brigade under my command. Marching fifty miles and fighting a battle all in twenty-four hours, you will admit is no small undertaking, and this was done without murmur or complaint. In the charge of the 9th New York that regiment lost, nine killed and fifty-six wounded. Among the former was Lieut. Charles A. Gadsden, adjutant, who fell at the head of his regiment. He was a kind, considerate man, and most excellent soldier, and dies greatly lamented by all of his companions. Colonel Howard, of the steamer ' Virginia,' who was in command of the artillery, has not yet made his report, consequently I am unable to give any particulars concerning his part in the engagement, but believe that he behaved with great coolness and bravery as well as all the officers and men under him. Soon after the troops had returned to Roanoke Island, the Rev. T. W. Conway, chaplain of the 9th New York, returned, bringing with him about fifty stragglers and some of the wounded left behind on the field of battle. He remained to bury the dead and to assist the wounded. On the morning of the 20th he started out to find the rebel pickets, and after going some distance he was informed that the rebel pickets had left the night before — reinforce- ments which they had received only a few moments before included — for Suffolk, thinking that our forces were by a flank movement getting in their rear to cut them off ; returned to the hospital by way of the battle-field, where he counted thirty of the enemy's dead. "After the dead were buried and the wounded, who could not be brought away, cared for, all the stragglers who could be found armed themselves and started for the place of debarkation and arrived here in safety the next morning. "Although the results of this expedition may seem disastrous on ac- count of the loss of life, still the reconnaissance cannot fail to be of great value to you when connected with future operations. In justice to other regiments I cannot say what I should like to about the officers and men in my own, consequently would only say that all alike did their duty faithfully and well. 190 NINTH REGIMENT, NEW YORK VOLUNTEERS. " I regret to add that owing to our limited transportation we were compelled to leave behind fourteen of our wounded in care of Dr. Warren of the 21st Massachusetts, two or three of whom were brought away by the chaplain of the Ninth. " I have to-day sent a flag of truce by Major Jardine, who was ac- companied by the surgeon, chaplain, and ten privates of the 9th New York, for the purpose of bringing back the wounded and the bodies of Lieutenant Gadsden and our dead who were buried on the field. " Herewith you will find'a complete list of the killed, wounded and missing of the fourth brigade in the action of the 19th. " Respectfully, your obedient servant, "RUSH C. HAWKINS, " Colonel, Commanding Fourth Brigade and Post. " Major-General Ambrose E. Burnside, " Commanding Dept. of North Carolina, Newberne, N. C." As the above correspondence is from the Official Records, we append the following- letter which is of interest and taken from the same source : "Headquarters, Roanoke Island, N. C, April 23, 1862. "Sir: — Doubtless the unfortunate occurrence of the 19th has been brought fully to your notice. No one can regret the result more than myself. "First, because of the loss of life ; second, the object of the expe- dition not being accomplished after all the obstacles in the way had been removed. " It seems that both sides were badly frightened. The enemy ran like quarter-horses toward Norfolk, and we as fast as our weary legs would carry us toward Roanoke, leaving quite a number of our wounded and destroying the bridges behind us. In this connection I will only add our retirement was discretion, our valor having been wholly spent on the field of battle. There is one satisfaction that we whipped them like the devil in their own well chosen position. " They acknowledged to have had three companies of the Georgia Third completely cut to pieces, and from this acknowledgment it is but fair to infer their loss was much greater. Their force, as near as I can ascertain, was the Georgia Third, 1,165 strong ; a battery of Henningsen's artillery of four pieces, and some North Carolina Militia, number not known, and a full squadron of Suffolk and Southampton cavalry. This statement of the enemy's forces I believe to be very nearly correct. I most cordially join in the recommendations of the OFFICIAL CORRESPONDENCE. 191 surgeons, that the wounded be removed North as soon as possible, and that a steamer, made comfortable by the necessary beds, etc., be sent here for that purpose at the earliest moment. They can be of no ser- vice here and will recover much more rapidly at the North, besides relieving our surgeons, who are already worn out by their arduous labors. " Owing to the little wound received in my left arm in the affair of the 19th I am compelled, by the advice of surgeons, to lay up in ordi- nary for repairs, much against my desire or inclination. They say it will be eight weeks before I am fit for service. Under such circum- stances, being forbidden to perform any labor, I would ask for leave of absence until such time as I am able to return to duty, which shall be at the earliest possible moment. But, still, if you cannot spare me, I will remain and render such service as I am able to perform lying on my back. I know and can dictate what ought to be done. " I should be very happy to see you here, as I have much to say to you that I cannot write. Most faithfully your friend and servant, "RUSH C. HAWKINS, ' Commanding Post." CHAPTER VIII. NINTH NEW YORK GARRISONS ROANOKE ISLAND— RE- CREATION THE ORDER OF THE DAY — PRACTICAL USES OF CAPTURED POWDER — COMPANY K'S NEW BATTERY TACTICS— INNOCENTLY GETTING SQUARE WITH THE COMPANY COOK— TESTIMONIAL TO COL. HAWKINS — PARADE AND DRILL OF NINTH UNDER COMMAND OF NON-COMMISSIONED OFFICERS— NEW RECRUITS TROUBLED WITH " LAPSY PALLS " CURED BY SERGEANT HORNER — LIEUTENANT FLUSSER, U. S. N., CAPTURES PLYMOUTH AND COMPANY "F" DETAILED TO GARRISON TOWN — RUNAWAY SLAVES RETURNED TO OWNER — WESSEL'S BRIGADE RE- LIEVES COMPANY "F," — ENEMY ATTACK AND DE- FEAT WESSEL, RE-CAPTURE PLYMOUTH AND KILL FLUSSER — BURNSIDE LEAVES FOR FORT MONROE — NINTH LEAVES ROANOKE FOR NORFOLK— CAMP FOR CONTRABANDS— LOSSES OF BURNSIDE EXPEDITION. AFTER the battle of South Mills and the return of the regiment to Roanoke Island the Zouaves were allowed a few days for rest and recuperation, when they settled down for what proved to be a protracted stay on this isolated spot. The regular routine of drill was not calculated to make them thoroughly con- RECREA TION SO UGHT FOR. 1 9 3 tented with the situation, and idleness fostered the spirit of homesickness. The longing for home was increased when the wounded re- turned from furlough and related the manner in which they were received ; how everyone considered them genuine heroes and treated them as such, and no little heart-burning arose when the tales were told, with somewhat of a swagger, of the tender solicitude displayed by their acquaintances of the opposite sex, who never tired of hearing them repeat their experi- ences in Dixie. It was decided that some radical departure must be made to lift the lads out of the " slough of despond " and make them forget their loneliness. A reading-room and post office was established, also a debating club where regular meetings were held and numer- ous subjects discussed and argued. Several baseball clubs were organized, while some of the companies erected various kinds of gym- nastic apparatus, and much skill was shown in the acrobatic feats which followed, while the sparring and wrestling matches would have delighted the eyes of a professional. A further proof of the talent to be found in the regiment, and which while not exactly " hid under a bushel," was so modest as not to attract general attention, was the success which 194 NINTH REGIMENT, NEW YORK VOLUNTEERS. attended the formation of " The Zouave Min- strel and Dramatic Club." There was some doubts expressed at first re- garding the success of the projected undertak- ing, but no sooner had the determination to have a show in camp taken definite shape than it was discovered that there were plenty of men in the regiment well qualified to fill every posi- tion in a theatrical company from that of manager to stage doorkeeper. The company was well chosen and well man- aged. Lieutenant-Colonel Kimball, who was in command of the regiment at the time and was heartily in favor of the project, assisted the organizers in every way possible. A building was assigned to them which, after a few enter- tainments had been given, was found to be en- tirely too small, and it was arranged to provide them with a larger one, which after being fitted up properly would accommodate five hundred persons. This was soon transformed into a very respectable theatre. Robert L. Cutler, of Company D, was gen- eral manager as well as stage manager, and also " went on " in some of the plays. He was a man of versatile talents, and although little more than a boy in years, had been connected professionally with a Broadway theatrical com- pany before the war. He wrote a burlesque on THE "STARS" ON THE PROGRAMME. 195 Richard III, in which he appeared in one of the leading parts, and which proved to be a great success. The scene painter was G. W. Roberts, of Company A, who belonged to a family of artists. He is still, at this writing, a prominent scene painter, as was also his father before him. Wil- bur F. Curtis, of Company B, was the orchestra leader, and was as thoroughly devoted to his work and fully as successful in his limited sphere as though he were nightly receiving the applause of Metropolitan audiences. Among the other members of the company were Andrew Thompson, of Company A, vocal- ist as well as actor, who was heard in many songs, among them "Gently Breathe the Tender Sigh," "Simon the Cellarer," etc.; William Burns, of Company "K"; William Renner, of Company F, whose proper name seemed to have been forgotten by his comrades, and who was known throughout the regiment, and even appeared on the play-bill by his sobriquet of " Corporal Casey"; Thomas Fisher, of Company " B," the great and successful delineator of female character parts, and who was known among the men of the regiment as "Kate Fisher "; Walter Nolan, of Company E, who performed Irish characters and sang Irish songs; Hospital Steward William Grobecker, 196 NINTH REGIMENT, NEW YORK VOLUNTEERS. Company A ; Sergeant Al. Salisbury, of Com- pany A, a member of the chorus, but who often sang "The Boy with the Auburn Hair;" James Fitzgerald, of Company A, delighted the boys with the ballad " The Southern Groves ;" Peter L. Drew, of Company A, who was not only an actor of some merit, but was a jig dancer who had few equals ; Walter L. Thompson, of Com- pany I, who not only performed in the " legiti- mate drama," but was the " end man " in the minstrel show ; Robert M. Johnston, Company H, character singer and balladist, as well as actor, who sang the character songs of " Lord Lovell," "Billy Barlow," "Reuben Wright," " Bacon and Greens," and the " Cork Leg," to the great admiration of appreciative audiences ; J. C. Julius Langbein, of Company B, better known throughout the regiment as "Jennie the drummer," appeared as " Mary " in an original production entitled, " A Kiss in the Dark"; Frank Mergarthaler, of Company A, who de- lighted the boys with his " Essence of Old Virginny." The " nigger " minstrel performance, which was a part of the entertainment, also carried off high honors, and will always be remembered by the Roanoke survivors ; but the part of the performances longest and most pleasantly remembered by a majority of the regiment was PROCURING " PROPERTIES" UNDER DIFFICULTIES. 197 the singing by the quartette. This part of the program was seldom omitted and was always awaited with great interest. The quartette as per programme, was com- posed of the following voices, ROBERT M. JOHNSTON, . . First Tenor. JAMES FITZGERALD, . . Second Tenor. ALEX. F. HAMILTON, . . Alto ANDREW THOMPSON, . . Bass. Each one of these comrades was the fortunate possessor of a superior and well-trained voice, and while none of them were professional singers each one had been closely connected with amateur musical societies, and were more or less accustomed to appearing in public. In the estimation of their comrades in the regi- ment none of them would lose anything by comparison, either as a quartette or as soloists with many of the greater lights of the profes- sional stage. The question of procuring properties which would enable them to make a proper presenta- tion of the various plays taxed the ingenuity of the managers and the members of the company to the utmost limit, but as necessity is the mother of invention, it — the necessity aforesaid — together with the ingenuity possessed, of which there appeared to be an inexhaustible supply, enabled them to overcome all difficulties. 198 NINTH REGIMENT, NEW YORK VOLUNTEERS. The apparent impossibility of procuring curled hair for the wigs necessary for the minstrel band had at the beginning almost brought them to the verge of despair when an idea occurred to one of them. It resulted in a sudden and extraordinary interest being shown by certain men in the regiment in the welfare and also the personal appearance of the negroes about camp, especially the ones with long wool. Mission- aries appeared among them preaching the gos- pel of cleanliness and neatness ; but every ex- hortation ended with advice against the wearing of long hair. They were told of the many evils attending such a practice and of the unhealth- fulness of it, and as the exhorter removed his own head covering and slapped his clean- shaven poll, he dilated on the comfort that attended a close crop. All this was to try to induce the darkies to sacrifice some of their wool for the benefit of histrionic art. Little or no progress was made until it was shown the negroes by unassailable arguments that they could never successfully aspire to be soldiers while they wore long hair ; that all soldiers wore their hair short, therefore, if they wished to be soldiers they must do likewise. This made a few converts, and some material for wigs was forthcoming. It was necessary, how- ever, before the supply fully equalled the de- A SUCCESSFUL ' ' SEASON. " 199 mand, to fall back to first principles and revive Rob Roy's rule. The negroes who were the owners of the kind of head covering coveted, were kidnapped, carried to a squad-room, kept quiet by dire threats, their wool deftly and swiftly removed by a Zouave armed with a pair of shears, and the shorn victims sent on their way as bald as babies. In this way sufficient wool was secured to finish the number of wigs required. When the theatre was first fitted up a private box was not forgotten and one was built and gayly decorated for the use of General Burnside who, while on a tour of inspection on the island, was invited to attend the play. The box was afterward reserved for Colonel Hawkins and Lieutenant-Colonel Kimball, or any visiting officer of rank. A regular admission fee was charged and the "season" proved so successful that the managers, after paying all expenses, placed as a first contribution the sum of $364.00 in the hands of Chaplain Conway, with instructions to distribute the amount equitably among the widows of the members of the regiment who thus far had given their lives for their country. Crowds came from all the camps on the island, numbers frequently were turned away, and many returned to camp in disappointment. 200 NINTH REGIMENT, NEW YORK VOLUNTEERS. The natives were simply astounded at the ease and facility with which soldiers acted the various parts. The entertainments were given ordinarily about once a week. To have given them more frequently would have interfered too much with the regular routine of the camp, and prop- ably have been detrimental to discipline. On the nights when the theatre was open it was necessary for all visitors to be provided with passes, for while the building was inside the regimental guard line it was always after tatoo before the performance ended and visitors from outside, both citizens and soldiers, had to be safely escorted out of camp by their indi- vidual hosts. However, " the largest liberty compatible with law " was accorded to all who were not on duty on those evenings. Among the stores found on the island at the time of the capture was a quantity of damaged powder. This was not " taken up " by the or- dinance officer of the army, as it was considered worthless for military purposes, but was per- mitted to remain in the magazine at Camp Reno, and was cared for so that it did not further deteriorate. It was afterwards the means of furnishing a great deal of amusement as well as instruction to the men of the regiment. Considerable quantities of it were issued to PRACTICAL USES OF CAPTURED POWDER. 201 the several companies and sufficient good car- tridges were always found for target practice. With these Company K was enabled to obtain some valuable artillery experience, not only with their own guns but also with the heavier ones mounted on the forts. This was a great saving of the precious government cartridges. To discharge a government cartridge except in battle was next in point of heniousness to murder. In camp and on the march the men were obliged to account for each cartridge issued to them. If this was not done Uncle Sam, who held company commanders person- ally responsible, would stop from their monthly pay the money value of ammunition unac- counted for. Besides being of great service much fun was provided the men. There were improvised Fourth of July celebrations, mining operations on the line of original ideas, and all kinds of wild pranks. Some of K's men organized a light battery after a somewhat ingenious fashion. They pro- cured six wheelbarrows from the quartermaster, and on each one fastened an old musket selected from among the captured arms. Then, with an active youth between the handles of each barrow, to perform the part of a battery team, they would occupy the parade ground between drills, and give as fine an exhibition of light-battery drill 202 NINTH REGIMENT, NE IV YORK VOL UNTEERS. and practice as could be desired. All their ev- olutions were performed in strict accordance with artillery tactics, and they were always sure of a good sized audience, who were quite gen- erous in their applause. There was one occurrence in camp, in which the captured cartridges played a prominent part. Just before dress-parade one evening, two pri- vates of Company G — George Teller and John Weaver — were seen working industriously in the middle of the company street, endeavoring to reduce a large, knotty, live oak stump into fragments of convenient size for their fireplace. They worked away steadily until the bugle sounded " first call " for parade, when they hur- ried to quarters, put on their equipments and marched with the company to the " color line." One suspicious circumstance in the manceuvers of the men was the carelessness with which they left the stump in the street ; for, while it is said " there is honor among thieves," in a camp where fuel is scarce it is well understood that a soldier has no compunctions of conscience, and, considering this a case of abandoned property, would promptly confiscate it, regardless of con- sequences. No sooner had the company left the street for the parade ground than the com- pany cook, who had been secretly observing the " stump-splitting " process, stealthily appropri- GETTING SQUARE WITH THE COOK. 203 ated the log, and to make sure that the rightful owners should not wrest it from him on their return and at the same time to destroy the evi- dence, placed it at once on his fire. Much to the cook's wonder, no inquiry for the log was made after the parade was dismissed, and neither of the owners appeared to be in a frenzy of indignation over its loss, nor did they express their ability to whip the man who had stolen their property, which was the usual course pur- sued on the loss of anything of value. They retired to their quarters, without comment which led their comrades to believe — almost with awe — that they were unable to find a vocabulary violent enough to express their feelings. Meanwhile the cook chuckled and resumed his work. Sometime later the com- pany was aroused by a loud explosion, and, rushing out to ascertain its cause, found the street covered with pots, kettles, messpans and other cooking utensils, splintered boards, articles of food, etc., while beneath and among it all lay the cook, half dead with fright and a few injuries. The cook-house had completely disappeared. When Captain Jardine, in whose company the affair occurred, heard the explosion, he was mys- tified for only a moment. Then he remembered the two soldiers and the stump, and light 204 NINTH REGIMENT, NEW YORK VOIUNTEERS. dawned upon him. It seemed plain to him that the explosion was caused by a loaded stick in the cook's fire, and he at once ordered the dyna- miters to report at the guardhouse under arrest. He made no inquiries and required no further evidence to convince him that the whole affair was an attempt to " get square " with the cook. The men were kept some days in confinement, but they both persistently asserted their inno- cence, and as the cook proved to be more fright- ened than hurt, nothing more was done about it and they were liberated. Teller and Weaver still maintain their innocence of any intention to injure the cook. They relate that a hole was bored in the stump, which was then loaded with two cartridges. The fuse burned low and was extinguished and could not be relighted. Other means of splitting were tried and failed. Before they could accomplish their object the bugle called them away. Upon returning and finding the stump missing, they decided to keep quiet and await the explosion which would at once discover the thief and punish him. Probably the most interesting and practical use to which the powder was applied was in sham battles between Company K's battery and the rest of the regiment. Several times these occurred, and were not only realistic, but both sides were familiarized with conditions which COMPANY OS EXPEDITION. 20S arise in most engagements. The charging in- fantry were made familiar with the flash and concussion of artillery Are, while the battery- men also became familiar with the appearance of charging infantry. In the early part of May information was re- ceived at headquarters that the rebels had a large amount of stores, consisting of bacon, corn, salt, flour, etc., collected at a point near Gates- ville, and it was determined to destroy the same if possible. Company C (Captain Parrison) was detailed to perform the task, and on May 7th they embarked on the gunboat "Shaw- sheen," Captain Underwood commanding, and proceeded through Albemarle Sound and up the Chowan River to the mouth of Catherine's Creek, which empties into the river near Holli- day's Island. They proceeded cautiously up the creek about two miles, being careful to con- ceal their lights, and about one o'clock in the morning landed in a densely wooded swamp, through which they advanced silently, and suc- ceeded in effecting a complete surprise the enemy scattering after making only slight resistance. The torch was applied and property of much value destroyed. While returning to the gun- boat the rear guard, commanded by Lieutenant Cooper, was attacked by about twenty-five of 206 NINTH REGIMENT, NEW YORK VOLUNTEERS. the enemy's cavalry. Parisen, returning to aid Cooper, repulsed the rebels, one of their num- ber being shot through the heart. The Zouaves arrived at Roanoke without further trouble. About this time a proposition was made by the sergeants of Company B to present some kind of a testimonial to Colonel Hawkins. By virtue of seniority in rank he was nearly always in command of brigade or post, and sometimes of both, but still, his first care was always for the welfare of his own regiment. He was watchful in protecting it from being- overlooked or neglected by commissary or quartermaster's department, energetic and tireless in having it well clothed, and, in camp, well fed. The men were all aware of these attentions and desired in some man- ner to express their appreciation of them. The subject had been somewhat agitated throughout the regiment, but did not assume definite shape until B's sergeants visited the first sergeants of the other companies, and asked each one to call a meeting of his company, inform the men of the object and have them appoint a committee to take action on the matter. The plan met with general approval, contributions were limited to a moderate amount, and the enterprise reached a success- ful conclusion. It was understood that the THE SWORD PRESENTATION. 207 participants should be only enlisted men. Commissioned officers were not only excluded but were to remain in ignorance of the movement until the presentation was ready to take place, and as there is little difficulty in withholding secrets from regimental officers the latter part of the agreement was successfully carried out. The requisite money was quickly contributed and forwarded to Judge Whiting, of New York, with a request that he would purchase a hand- some dress sword, have a suitable inscription engraved upon the scabbard, and express it to the camp at his earliest convenience. Assistant- Surgeon White, who had been enjoying a brief leave of absence in New York, was about to return to his regiment, when the Judge had the eood fortune to meet him and turned the sword over to his custody. Dr. White arrived at Roanoke on the 9th of May, and delivered the box containing the sword to the committee who had the affair in charge. The officers were informed, Colonel Hawkins communicated with and requested to favor the regiment with his presence at Camp Reno on the afternoon of the succeeding Saturday. Lieutenant-Colonel Kimball permitted the regi- ment to parade under command of Sergeant- Major Dusenbury, with the companies com- 208 NINTH REGIMENT, NEW YORK VOLUNTEERS. manded by their respective first sergeants. When the day arrived the regiment was duly paraded, then formed in hollow square, and the sword was presented by Private Reed, of Com- pany B, in an neat and appropriate address, the Colonel accepting in a few feeling remarks which showed how deeply he was touched by this token of his men's gratitude. The cere- mony then ended, and the parade dismissed. A notable feature of the presentation exer- cises and one which caused much comment and excited general surprise, not only among the regimental officers, but also among the many visitors present, was the appearance of the regi- ment and the excellent manner in which it was handled by the " non-coms." The masterful way in which Dusenbury ma- noeuvered the command, executing some intri- cate battalion movements before "forming square," and the prompt and ready manner in which the first sergeants handled their com- panies, was, to state it mildly, a revelation to the officers, who gazed at one another in undis- guised astonishment, and the unwritten law of the Zouaves, that " no man could be a corporal unless he was fit to be a colonel," in this in- stance appeared not to have been mis-applied. It should be remembered that a member of a regiment, either enlisted man or officer, seldom A REVELATION TO THE OFFICERS. 209 has an opportunity to see his own regiment on drill or parade. Only when on guard duty, or some detailed or detached service, would such an opportunity present itself. In the present instance there was something in addition to a feeling of gratification in the breasts of captains and lieutenants in observing their own regiment. There was a sense of amazement that these non-coms, who had been drilled and disciplined, watched over, and, so to speak, held in a leash, and who were still considered pupils, could drill the regiment in such a correct and ready manner, and as one captain expressed himself to another, "just as well as we can." The men noticed the looks of surprise among the officers, and knowing the cause were correspondingly elated. Regiments in active service in the field, are constantly losing men in addition to those lost by the casualties of battle. Some persons are more susceptible to disease than others. More or less sickness always occurs in camp. The recovery of some of the sick men is slow and tedious, while others become completely broken down in health and continue for a long time unfit for active duty. With either class it is far better for themselves and for the cause in which they are enlisted, that they be discharged and their places filled by others more able to 210 NINTH REGIMENT, NEW YORK VOLUNTEERS. withstand the hardships of a soldier's life, and all conscientious and patriotic surgeons recom- mend this mode of procedure. Recruits are constantly being sent to the front to refill these vacancies ; regiments with the best reputations for soldierly or fighting qualities being thus continually augmented through their entire term of service. When the recruit arrives in camp he is received in a friendly spirit, and should he bring with him a goodly share of bounty money, and is fond of the good old old game of " draw," he is treated with tender consideration until his money has been trans- ferred to the pockets of the older and more experienced campaigners, and all are glad that he joined the regiment. His verdancy speedily disappears with the tuition he experiences and he becomes a good soldier. At first he may be a little troublesome and inclined to be insubor- dinate, for in some instances he imagines he left all constituted authorities behind when he put on his uniform and started to join the regi- ment, but alas, how quickly that impression is removed, though in his mind he may for a time resent the quiet, unquestioning way in which older soldiers obey all commands. If a bully, he endeavors, and quite often succeeds, in work- ing up the other recruits to revolt against, " these fellows with stripes on their arms who A DISTURBING ELEMENT. 2 1 1 go around bossing everybody," and thus foments to unnecessary disturbance, but extra fatigue or guard, with a tour of duty on a wooden horse or with a weighted knapsack or the novel position assumed by being bucked and gagged never fails to eliminate that feeling. In the " Ninth " the non-coms, under supervision of the first sergeants attended to all details of military life in their respective companies, the commissioned officers having advanced beyond that condition. Should a first sergeant prove incompetent to take care of his men, clothe, feed, drill and control them, it was not difficult to depose him and fill his place with one who possessed all these requisites. One of the duties of the first sergeant was to take charge of recruits assigned to his company and make soldiers of them. This was generally accomplished without much friction, but in case of a bully appearing among them, each sergeant employed methods of his own toward him which he deemed especially applicable to the situation. On one occasion during the early days at Roanoke, a squad of recruits assigned to Company D, contained a member who seemed determined to create trouble. He did not propose to sur- render his cognomen of " bad man," without a struggle. His natural assurance enabled him 212 NINTH REGIMENT, NEW YORK VOLUNTEERS. to continue an influence already established over his comrades, and organize an attempt to destroy the discipline of the company. The design was to cover the first-sergeant with shame and mortification, by openly disregard- ing the proprieties which governed military custom, and which the sergeant felt in duty bound to enforce. The first morning after the squad arrived in camp, "sick-call" sounded and the first-sergeant presented himself at the place where the ailing men were accustomed to assemble and be marched to the surgeon's quarters, when he found in addition to those actually ill, every one of the recruits lined up, the embryo mutineer at their head, ready for business. At that time the first-sergeant of D, was one James B. Horner, a good soldier, a strict disciplinarian, but not blessed with an angelic temper. A characteristic of his, well known throughout the regiment, was a decided lack of patience. He grasped the situation and the meaning of it all at a glance, saw but one way out of the dilem- ma, which appeared to him the right way. He believed there was but one time to solve a problem and that was the present. The moment he noticed the crowd of recruits ready to answer "sick-call," he prepared for action. To say that he was angry, feebly expressed it. CURING A NE W DISEASE. 2 1 3 Giving one glance along the line, he stepped up to the ring-leader on the right, and calmly asked: "What's the matter with you? Why do you wish to see the surgeon?" The man replied with a leer; "I've got the lapsy palls," with further remarks which are unprintable, but which were grossly offensive and insulting. The sergeant quietly leaning his musket against the nearest tent-pole, said: "You needn't go to the doctor for that, I can attend to your case myself," and before the recruit had time to think or move, Horner " lit on him," and so sudden and unlooked for was the attack, and so vigorously and industriously maintained that the recruit was taken completely by sur- prise and in a moment was in such a condition that his dearest friends would have found it difficult to recognize him, and before he could fully realize what had occured, he was on the way to the guard-house. Horner now fixed his not very gentle gaze on the next man, and with finger pointed at him like a poised javelin, asked savagely: "What's the matter with you?" The man backed away with hands partly raised as though to protect his face, and stammered out something about not meaning any harm, that the other fellow asked them to " fall in " as a joke on the sergeant, and more to the same effect, when he was cut short by Horner saying: 214 NINTH REGIMENT, NEW YORK VOLUNTEERS. "Get to your quarters or I'll murder you," and when he looked round for the other pretended sick men of the squad they had disappeared. That "lapsy pall" disease was not again on the list of maladies, and there was no more trouble with that batch of recruits; they moved along quietly, did their duty and obeyed orders, the matter never after being referred to. It must not be supposed from the above that physical force was generally employed in ex- acting military obedience in the 9th New York. It was in strict opposition to the Rules of Ser- vice and also contrary to regimental orders for a non-commissioned officer to strike a soldier of whatever rank, particularly a private. Seldom or never was this resorted to except when a non-com. had become irritated and aggravated beyond endurance by acts, which, though not strictly overt, were nevertheless of such a char- acter as to injure discipline and tend to destroy authority, and which gave the officer an oppor- tunity (If he possessed sufficient courage and the physical qualities) to successfully redress his own grievances. After the evacuation of Norfolk by the enemy, Colonel Hawkins had urged upon the depart- ment the importance of opening the Dismal Swamp canal to Norfolk, by which route a twenty-four hour communication between Fort- REOPENING THE CANAL. 21S ress Monroe and Newberne would be secured and the dangers of the outside route around Hatteras avoided. The authorities decided to act on his suggestions and in the latter part of May Professor Malifert, who had been the first person to successfully conduct sub- marine blasting operations, arrived for the purpose of superintending the work of remov- ing the obstructions from North river and the canal. The steamer " Port Royal," with a detail and two guns from Company K, under Captain Whiting and Lieutenant Morris, was assigned to protect the working party. This was made up of one hundred contrabands from the island in charge of Sergeant Thompson of Company I. Very little opposition was encountered by them and the undertaking was successfully accom- plished, all- obstructions being removed, the abandoned rebel fortifications destroyed, and an unobstructed and direct waterway secured between General Burnside's forces and the north. On the morning of May 20, the " Port Royal" completed the first trip through the canal and arrived at Fortress Monroe, carrying dispatches direct from General Burnside to General Wool, and the work was accomplished. Captain Whiting, with the detail from Com- pany K, continued to keep the communication 216 NINTH REGIMENT, NEW YORK VOLUNTEERS. open during the month of June, after which they were relieved and returned to the regiment. The men of the regiment who were so fortu- nate as to take part in the expedition to open the canal enjoyed a new and interesting exper- ience in thus penetrating the heart of the mys- terious " Dismal." Vivid object lessons in relation to certain phases of the " peculiar insti- tution " were brought forcibly to their notice by the occasional appearance of fugitive slaves among the working party. These men, five of whom appeared while the detail were in the canal, had been living in the swamp for years ; they presented themselves fearlessly and asked to be permitted to join the party. There was no hesitation nor distrust. They had evidently received full information regarding the situation by that unexplained and mysterious system used for spreading information, known only to them- selves and which no white man has yet been able to discover. It was all like a page from " Uncle Tom's Cabin." They were received without question and became part of the working force, and afterward returned with the party to Roanoke Island. One of the fugitives informed Sergeant Thompson that he had escaped from his master in the year 1855, had succeeded in baffling the bloodhounds, and had lived in the swamp ever since — seven years. COMPANY F AT PL} r M0 UTH. 2 1 7 Early in the month of June the town of Plymouth on the Roanoke river was captured by the fleet and held by the naval forces until the 15th, when after inspecting the place, it was decided to hold it permanently, if pos- sible, and Company F was detached from the regiment for this purpose, remaining as garrison of the town until the following Decem- ber. Plymouth at that time was a city of much importance, being a port of entry with a large trade in lumber, shingles, naval stores, etc., but when first occupied by Company F, had been almost deserted by its inhabitants. A dwelling- house of sufficient capacity to accommodate the rank and file was levied on for quarters for the company while the officers were provided with a smaller one near at hand. Permission having been granted to Colonel Hawkins to enlist loyal North Carolinians for service with the Union troops, and organize them into companies or regiments as he deemed best, equipments suffi- cient for a regiment each of infantry and cavalry were issued to him for that purpose. The custom house was again taken possession of by the Government, and was utilized as a depot for military and naval supplies. In a short time the town became a busy little military post, garrisoned by one company whose captain 218 NINTH REGIMENT, NEW YORK VOIUNTEERS. (Hammill) commanded the post, Lieut. H. C. Perley the troops, while Lieut. M. J. Graham composed the entire staff of quartermaster, com- missary and ordinance officer. The surrounding country being held by the enemy the greatest vigilance was at all times observed. A heavy picket guard was continu- ously on duty, causing the details therefor to follow in turn with such frequency that it was far from agreeable. This duty, however, was considerably light- ened as soon as the " Yokels "(as the boys dubbed the new North Carolina recruits) had received sufficient instruction and drill to warrant detail- ing them for such service. The Union fleet, con- sisting of improvised small gunboats, had its permanent rendezvous in the river fronting the town and was commanded by Lieut-Com- mander Charles E. Flusser, an exceptionally energetic and efficient officer. Frequent expe- ditions were sent into the adjacent country, with the special object of capturing detachments of the enemy or destroying collections of mili- tary supplies ; at other times on a simple reconnaissance to locate the enemy and gain from the loyal inhabitants, whose fathers and brothers were serving with the Union army, any information they had been able to gather concern- ing the operations of the enemy, and which occa- " PUT OUT YOUR FENDERS MR. L VNCH." 2 1 9 sionally proved of much value. These expedi- tions were generally ordered by Flusser, who was ranking officer at the post, and the available number of soldiers being limited, were fre- quently largely composed of sailors from the fleet. Flusser was continuously on the alert, constantly striving to advance the interest of the cause in which he was enlisted. He was known in the navy to be of unflinching courage, clear and correct in judgment, and was looked upon by both soldiers and sailors as the coming Nelson of the war. His men never tired of repeating the account of their fight up the Chowan river, when they rammed, and boarded the gunboat which was flying the flag of the rebel Commodore Lynch, who had been Flusser's commander before the war, when upon closing in on the Commodore, Flusser, who was forward at the head of his boarders, removed his cap and shaking it toward the enemy, shouted : " Put out your fenders, Mr. Lynch, I'm coming alongside," then rammed and boarded, and in five minutes had captured the enemy ; but not his old commander, how- ever, who had escaped. Occasionally Company F would come in con- tact with the enemy while on these scouts, but their casualties were few. In two instances they went up the river on the gunboats in 220 NINTH REGIMENT, NEW YORK VOLUNTEERS. attempts to capture or destroy the nearly com- pleted rebel ram " Albemarle," but on both occa- sions unforeseen circumstances prevented suc- cess in the design. On the whole, garrison life at Plymouth was more congenial and pleasant to the men of Company F than any previous experi- ence. The town was of considerable size and although at first practically deserted, shortly afterwards contained quite a colony, the inhabit- ants returning and refugees, both white and black, coming in from the neighboring country. The sailors passed their days of "shore leave" in town, and fraternized with the soldiers, while both having considerable money, created quite a lively trade in the place which was increased as the citizens returned. The public market reopened, some of the merchants resumed busi- ness, and the general outlook for prosperity was gratifying to the inhabitants. The treatment of the black refugees by the post-commander created much feeling among the men of the company, and only the restraints of discipline and the personal popularity of Captain Hammill prevented serious consequences to him. Several unpleasant incidents occurred in con- nection with runaway slaves of which we recount the following : Two negro men escaped from their master and sought protection within the lines. The owner followed them to Plymouth, reques- SURRENDER OF FUGITIVE SLA VES. 22 1 ted and was granted permission from Hammill to recover and take away his property. On finding them he tied their wrists together with one end of a rope, leading them through the streets by the other end, as a farmer might lead cattle to market. On the way to the dock where his boat lay, he was compelled to pass the guard-house of the regiment, and the sight of the shackled colored men was an unpleasant one for the eyes of northern soldiers. Clark Wright, who was corporal of the guard that day, was unable to control his indignation at the spectacle, and taking out his pocket-knife quickly cut the rope and told the negroes to run. They, without a moment's hesitation, did so, conforming to the scriptural injunction, and quickly disappeared. Shameful to relate, they were recaptured by Hammill's authority and assistance, and restored to the owner. Corporal Wright was reduced to the ranks for his part in aiding the escape. In the fall of 1862 a large force was organ- ized at Newberne under General Foster, with the intention of capturing Tarboro, Little Washington, and other important strategic points in that portion of North Carolina. Company F joined the column upon its arrival at Plymouth, and, because of its familiarity with the country, was placed in the advance as 222 NINTH REGIMENT, NEW YORK VOLUNTEERS. skirmishers, and held that position without once bein^ relieved during the entire march to Tarboro, returning to Plymouth after the completion of the movement. This occupation of the country by Foster afforded an oppor- tunity for the company to rejoin the regiment, and in November, it was relieved by Wessel's brigade of Foster's command, and after a tedious roundabout journey via Newberne, Baltimore and Washington, and after a six months' separation rejoined the regiment in front of Fredericksburg, where it again took its place in line. No fatted calf was killed on the return of the company, but the best the regiment had (hard tack and coffee) was passed around amid general rejoicing. One week after Company F left Plymouth the place was attacked simultaneously by land and water. Wessels was defeated, and the town re-captured. The steamer "Albemarle" attacked the Union fleet, and Flusser was killed by the rebound of one of his own shells. The "Southfield" was sunk, the remainder of the fleet was temporarily scattered, and Plymouth and its surroundings were once more in the hands of the enemy, while general demoraliza- tion was felt everywhere. About this time great anxiety was felt and great activity prevailed in higher military circles, PREPARING FOR A MOVE. 223 owing to the precarious position then oceupied by the Army of the Potomac. On the 8th of June, 1862, General Burnside passed through the Dismal Swamp canal on his way to Fortress Monroe for the purpose of consultation with General Dix. He arrived the following day, and at Secretary of War Stanton's suggestion visited General McClel- lan's headquarters, where he remained some six hours, then returned to his own department. June 24th, in reply to a dispatch from McClellan, Burnside answered that in five days he could land a force of 7,000 infantry in Norfolk, ready for transportation to White House landing, but without wagons, camp equipage, artillery or cavalry, or in the same time he could place at a point on the Chowan river with a view to co-operation in an attack on Petersburg, 7,000 infantry, 12 pieces of artillery, 3 companies of cavalry, and sufficient wagons for ammunition and 5 days' subsistence; could move on Weldon with the same force, or on Goldsborough at 60 hours' notice with 10,000 infantry, 20 pieces artillery, and 5 companies of cavalry. The next day McClellan telegraphed Burn- side, that reports had been received stating that Jackson's forces were coming to Rich- mond, and part of Beauregard's had already 224 NINTH REGIMENT, NEW YORK VOLUNTEERS. arrived, and for Burnside to advance on Goldsborough with all his available force at the earliest practicable moment, and wished him to understand that every minute in this crisis was of the greatest importance. He was urged to reach Goldsborough as soon as possible, destroying all the railroad communi- cations toward Richmond that he could, and if possible destroy bridges on the Raleigh and Gaston R. R., and threaten Raleigh. President Lincoln had previously telegraphed Burnside: " I think you had better go with any reinforce- ments you can spare to General McClellan." At 3 o'clock a.m., July ist, the Ninth moved to Pork Point in heavy marching order, boarded schooners which were towed by the " Ocean Wave " down Pamlico Sound to the mouth of Neuse river, where they were met by a steamer bringing orders for them to return to Roanoke, " the object of the expedition having been ac- complished." The Ninth reached Roanoke the following evening. On July 3d Burnside at Newberne tele- graphed McClellan that he had embarked 7,000 infantry and was on the way to join him, when he met a messenger informing him of McClel- lan's important successes before Richmond, which, if true, would render it unnecessary for him to join McClellan. REINFORCEMENTS FOR McCLELLAN. 225 He brought his fleet to anchor and sent a steamer through to Norfolk to ascertain the ex- act state of affairs, while he held himself in readiness to move in any direction. The same day Burnside telegraphed Stanton that in accordance with the latter's suggestion, he had embarked 7,000 men and was proceeding to the point designated by Stanton when he met a dispatch from Colonel Hawkins, commanding at Roanoke, stating there was information from Fortress Monroe of some very important suc- cesses to our arms in front of Richmond, which if true, rendered his proceeding further unnec- essary. He had come to anchor and sent a messenger to Norfolk to ascertain the exact facts. On July 2d, 6 p.m., Hawkins sent the follow- ing message from Roanoke Island to General Dix: " General Dix I wish you would telegraph immediately to President Lincoln if he has any orders other than the last sent some three days ago for General Burnside. "We are almost ready to move in obedience to that order. If Richmond be taken the President may wish to change his instructions. Please give me General McClellan's position when last heard from. Please return dispatch-boat immediately, as the news which it brings will, I think, govern the operations in this department." On July 3d, 3 p.m., General Dix forwarded this dispatch to Secretary Stanton with these comments : " I have just received the following dispatch from Colonel Hawkins: " " I do not quite understand why General Burnside should not have 226 NINTH REGIMENT, NEW YORK VOLUNTEERS. sent it in his own name, if it comes from or is authorized by him. The officer who brought it says Colonel Hawkins sent it with the assurance that General Burnside would approve it." The same date Stanton sent Hawkins through Dix: " Richmond not taken. General McClellan has been compelled to fall back to Harrison's Bar on James." " It is the opinion of the President, and he so directs, that General Burnside in person, with all the infantry force he can spare, move by way of Hampton Roads and the James, to General McClellan's head- quarters to reinforce him immediately." On the same date General Dix telegraphed : "The President: — Soon after sending you Colonel Hawkins' dis- patch I received from General McClellan an order to General Burnside to bring on all the troops he could spare. I sent it off immediately with a letter from myself, describing to General Burnside the position of General McClellan's army. The steamer having gone I cannot send your dispatch to Colonel Hawkins until morning. I will do so then if you desire it." July 5th, Burnside sent word to Stanton that his dispatch-boat sent for information to Nor- folk had not yet returned, and adds : " In the meantime we hear most startling rumors of disasters to General McClellan's army, which are in sad contrast to the dispatch from Colonel Hawkins on Roanoke Island on the night of the 2d in St., and announced himself ready to move in any direction." Stanton replied at once : " The department has no further orders to give but hopes you will with all speed reach General McClellan with as large a force as possible." At 4:40 p.m., Burnside reported he had reached Fortress Monroe with nearly 8,000 good men, and would leave as soon as the bulk of the command arrived, and was told to remain until the President, then on the way, ' ' WHERE IGNORANCE IS BL ISS. " 227 reached the fort. General Foster was left in charge of the Department of North Carolina. The regiment as a whole was in blissful ignorance of the exact military situation here shown, and, of course, had no knowledge of these flying telegrams or hurried prepa- rations, and it is not remembered now that the men were even aware that the greater portion of the corps was already in Vir- ginia. Consequently they kept on in the even tenor of their way. Fourth of July was celebrated by firing salutes from Forts Foster and Parke, and reading the Declaration of Independence; after which the day was devoted to all kinds of sport and amusement — one specially notable feature being a fantastic parade in the afternoon, when Com- pany K gave a fine exhibition of light artillery drill with their wheelbarrow battery, which was warmly applauded by the enthusiastic spec- tators. One extremely interesting feature of the stay at Roanoke was the "Contraband Camp." When the news of the capture of the island spread among the slaves on the adjacent main- land they commenced getting their belongings together, and leaving homes and masters to flock to the Union camp, searching for that free- dom of which they had so long dreamed. 228 NINTH REGIMENT, NEW YORK VOLUNTEERS. Nearly every night one or more boat-loads of slaves landed on the beach and were taken in charge by the guard. This was an ex- tremely dangerous proceeding for escaping slaves, and would have been considered heroic bravery had they been white men. No sooner had the danger of pursuit and capture by wrath- ful owners abated, and the peril of the watery journey been overcome, than a new danger, de- manding the greatest caution, presented itself. They were obliged to approach a strange shore in the darkness of night, where the sentinels were keenly alert for the approach of an enemy, especially by water. The flapping of sails or the sound of oars from the water was naturally accepted by the picket guard to denote an at- tempted night attack and surprise, and their faculties were doubly keen, and they were ready to at once fire in the direction of the sound, should their challenge not be promptly and sat- isfactorily responded to. To the soldier's hoarse challenge of "Who goes there?" would come an answering chorus of screams from the women and children, with shouts from the men of " Don't shoot, massa sojer ! don't shoot ! We's only po' niggahs ! " and similar assurances of friendliness, which meant much more of uncer- tainty to the sentinel than the refugees knew. For how could the sentinel know that this was ARRIVAL OF FUGITIVE SLAVES. 229 not a ruse employed by the enemy ? They were, however, seldom or never fired upon, but permitted to land, though kept under guard until daylight, when they were marched to head- quarters and proper disposition made of them by the commanding officer. The mingled terror and joy exhibited by the slaves was enough to melt the heart of the most unsympathetic. In their efforts to gain their freedom they had risked death at the hands of the very men from whom they sought protection. They did not know whether or not they would be re- turned to their former masters or be retained by new and unknown owners — simply exchanging one bondage for another. They were of all shades of color and degrees of breed, from the full-blood, short-wooled African to almost pure white. They came in such numbers to this camp that it was soon found necessary to make special provision for sheltering, feeding and controlling them, as well as for using their labor. On February 20th, 1862, an order was issued, detailing Serg't. Walter L. Thompson, of Com- pany I, " to organize and care for contrabands within this military district." Sergeant Thomp- son at once assumed control of all the straggling contrabands on the island. The nucleus of his camp was the twenty-seven per- sons who had been left by the rebels when the 230 NINTH REGIMENT, NEW YORK VOLUNTEERS. place was captured. All others, scattered about the island, were gathered together, and these, with the numbers constantly arriving by boats from the adjacent mainland, counting men, women and children, numbered two hundred and fifty, by the ist of April. In three months the black refugees reached the number of one thousand. The able-bodied males were em- ployed in every kind of labor made necessary by the conditions existing in the military depart- ment. They did the greater part of the heavy work of the Quartermaster's Department, un- loading, handling and housing provisions, for- age, ammunition and the various other stores necessary for the maintenance of the army. A large number were put at work on a new fort which was being erected on the island, to mount nine guns, and which was to be named Fort Burnside. While employed the men were paid the regular per diem wages of ordinary hired laborers. To those unable to work at such employment as the government had to offer, rations were issued and shelter provided. Thompson proved himself a most efficient officer and was very successful in his administration of his negro colony. He soon secured perfect control of all his subjects, male and female. The female portion proved the most difficult to manage. Fights among the ASSISTANCE FOR NEWBERNE. 231 women were a common occurrence and were, in a majority of cases, caused by jealousy over the attentions of some one or other of the dusky dandies of the camp. The sergeant was known in the regiment and by the soldiers generally, as " Niggardier Gen- eral Thompson." He was a busy man during the stay on Roanoke. When Newberne was besieged by the enemy and General Foster sent an urgent appeal for aid to assist in throwing up intrenchments and breastworks to protect the city, Sergeant Thompson responded so promptly that in six hours after the receipt of the order to furnish the labor, he was on board the steamer " Ocean Wave " on his way to Newberne with three- hundred able-bodied men with their families. He left them there working like beavers on the defenses — and the place was not taken. It is needless to say that the "Niggardier" was looked upon by the negroes under his command as a big man. He, to them, was the visible representation and embodiment of au- thority. He fed and clothed them, praised and punished. It is related that at a time when there was to be a general inspection of the camp by Colonel Hawkins, who was in command of the post, a number of the negroes happened to be present when he arrived to perform that duty. NINTH REGIMENT, NEW YORK VOLUNTEERS. The full dress uniform for commissioned offi- cers of the regiment was modeled after the French fashion, and, like the French officers, the rank was designated by various convolutions of gold lace on the sleeve, extending from the wrist to the elbow. Now the Colonel being a remark- ably fine looking man, even without any extra ornamentation, was simply gorgeous in his handsome uniform, with gold laced red cap and six bands of lace on his sleeves and would have attracted attention anywhere and from anybody. One of the darkies, a newcomer, upon catching sight of the Colonel, seized his nearest neighbor, a veteran of the camp, by the arm and stam- mered in an awe-struck voice: "Who, who dat ar man wid all dat gold on his sleebe?" The other, who knew who the Colonel was, replied very consequentially: "Dat de gin'ral ob all dese yer Zourabs. Dat de highest up man on de Island." That statement appeared to un- settle, in a measure, some former ideas of rank and power apparently held by the recruit, for he inquired timidly: "Am dat ar gin'ral ob de Zourabs a bigger man dan Massa Thompson?" The other turned on him with scorn and con- tempt in both voice and manner, and by way of reply asked: "Who feed you nigger? Whar you git yo' blankets from ? Who git yo' de UPHOLDING THE DIGNITY OF RANK. 233 money for yo' wo'k ? Does dis yer gin'ral of de Zourabs gib it to yo', or does Massa Thompson gib it to yo? Go 'way nigga yo' mak me tired." Of course the other negro slunk away, no doubt feeling that he had been properly rebuked for permitting himself to doubt for a moment that Massa Thompson was the " biggest " man on the Island. A certain class of officers in the service during the war (which may be said to be also true of certain others yet in the army), found considera- ble difficulty in maintaining a degree of dignity satisfactory to themselves without using all the accessories possible, the most noticeable being the constant attendance of an orderly, both in season and out of season. Thompson, who held the rank of Niggardier-General, not to be outdone by his fellow officers of high rank, felt called upon to do the same. It was suspected, however, that there was a little sly humor in this and that probably he had in mind Burns' lines "Oh ! wad some power the giftie gie us To see oursel's as ithers see us," etc. But be that as it may, he was followed on all occasions of ceremony and when visiting head- quarters for orders, or on ordinary duty, by his orderly. This individual was a diminutive negro about seven or eight years old, and small for that 234 NINTH REGIMENT, NEW YORK VOLUNTEERS. age. The sergeant had him fitted out with a complete Zouave uniform, (ez included, and had trained him to follow at a distance of two or three paces, and to conform to every move- ment of his chief like a bugler to his command- ing officer on drill or in action. It was a source of great amusement to the men to see the per- formances of the little darkey orderly. When Thompson moved the orderly moved, and when Thompson stopped the orderly halted like a well-trained soldier. If it became neces- sary to stop to converse with acquaintances, to report to a superior officer, or for any other purpose, the first thing the sergeant did was to turn quickly and look sternly at the orderly, who would cast a quick upward glance at him exactly like that of a trained dog. Thompson would say sharply: "Salute the gentlemen! What do I keep you for?" when the little fellow would execute the military salute with a pre- cision and dignity equal to the showiest drum- major in the army. On the afternoon of a scorching day, July ioth, final orders were received to leave Roa- noke Island, and it proved to be a departure for all time. No doubt there were a variety of sensations in the breast of the soldiers as they tramped with well filled knapsacks through the hot sand to the transports. The vessels quickly FAREWELL TO ROANOKE LSLAND. 233 got up anchor and sailed for Norfolk, Va. The troops arrived early on the 12th inst, landing and making camp within a stone's throw of Old Fort Norfolk. The boys parted from Roanoke Island with many regrets, for while an inconvenient place, in the sense that it required a long time to receive a letter from home, still there were many pleasant memories connected with their stay there. It was there they saw their first severe active service, and where they had so conducted themselves as to earn favorable comments from the several generals in command. For their conduct there they had received the plaudits of the Northern press. The pictorial weeklies had emblazoned their celebrated bayonet charge both far and wide, which illustrations had been copied in some of the foreign illustrated periodicals, while artists had embraced the sub- ject in their studies. Before closing this chapter which ends the career of the regiment in North Carolina, it may be interesting to mention some of the fruits of the victories gained by the Burnside expe- dition. At Roanoke Island : 4 forts mounting 29 guns; 3 rebel gunboats destroyed by the fleet; 4,000 prisoners with their arms and equipments 286 NINTH REGIMENT, NEW YORK VOLUNTEERS. and a stragetical position which commanded both the North Carolina Sounds. At Newberne : 9 forts mounting 41 heavy guns; over two miles of intrenchments with 19 field pieces in position, and 6 32-pdrs., un- mounted; over 300 prisoners and more than 1,000 stand of small arms; tents and barracks for 10,000 troops; large amounts of army sup- plies and naval stores, and the control of the second commercial city of North Carolina. Fort Macon, with 67 guns and over 500 prison- ers. The Union losses were comparatively small when the great result attained by them is con- sidered. At Roanoke Island the Union losses were : Army, 37 killed, 214 wounded, 13 missing; total, 264. Navy, 3 killed, it wounded; total, 14. Confederate loss not ascertained. At South Mills or Camden, Union loss: 13 killed, 101 wounded, 13 missing; total, 127. Confederate loss: 6 killed, 19 wounded, 3 missing; total, 28. At Newberne the Union losses were : 90 killed, 380 wounded, 1 missing; total, 471. Confederate loss : 64 killed, 214 wounded, 413 captured and missing; total, 578. FRUITS OF THE BURNSIDE EXPEDITION. 237 At Fort Macon : 9 killed, 25 wounded on both sides. Truly Gen. Burnside was not vain-glorious when, on leaving the department, he said : " The Burnside expedition has passed into history. Its record we can be proud of. No body of troops ever had more difficulties to over- come in the same space of time. Its perils were both by land and water. Defeat never befell it. No gun was lost by it. Its experience was a succession of honorable victories. 1 ' CHAPTER IX. FAREWELL TO ROANOKE ISLAND — ARRIVAL AT OLD FORT NORFOLK, VA.— OFF FOR FORTRESS MONROE- ARRIVAL AT FALMOUTH, VA.— DRILLS AND DRESS PARADES A PROMINENT FEATURE — RUMORS OF DISASTER — ARMY DESERTS FREDERICKSBURG AND DESTROYS STORES — POPE'S CAMPAIGN AND DIS- ASTROUS FAILURE — McCLELLAN AGAIN IN COM- MAND OF ARMY OF THE POTOMAC — DISORDER IN WASHINGTON — CAMP AT MERIDIAN HILL — OFF FOR THE MARYLAND CAMPAIGN — DESCRIPTION OF MARCH— SKIRMISHES WITH THE ENEMY— ARRI- VAL AT FREDERICK CITY, MD.— HOSPITALITY OF INHABITANTS — FIRE IN JAIL — ON TO ANTIETAM — BATTLE OF SOUTH MOUNTAIN — COOLNESS OF MAJOR JARDINE UNDER FIRE — DEATH OF GENERAL RENO AND COMMENTS ON HIS SOLDIERLY QUALI- TIES—ARRIVAL NEAR ANTIETAM — NIGHT BEFORE THE BATTLE. THE route from Roanoke Island to Norfolk lay through Croatan Sound and North River, to and through the Dismal Swamp Canal and Elizabeth river. The journey was full of interest to the Zouaves, many of whom were entirely unacquainted with the sights and sounds of that strange region. Owing to the shallow water of the Dismal Swamp Canal, .the transports stopped at its THE JOURNEY TO NORFOLK. 239 headwater and the troops were transferred to vessels of lesser draught which were to be towed through the canal by tugboats. The human heart is always profoundly moved by the majesty of silence. The faculties of the mind are more keenly alert and the emotions more re- sponsive at the midnight hour than during the hum of busy noon. Thus when the world- famed Dismal Swamp was entered new enotions were put into life — set at liberty, so to speak. " Silence! coeval with eternity! Thou wert ere nature's self began to be." To the northern soldiers all was new and strange and they also were silent. The boats glided weird and ghost-like through the dark water, "amid the ancient forests of a land mild, gloomy, magnificently grand," and when a comrade's attention was desired " The tongue moved gently first, and speech was low." The straight columns of the cypresses towered far above, their gnarled roots, rugged and but- tress-like where they showed above the water. Clinging to them were whisks and festoons of Spanish moss contrasting beautifully against the darker hue of trunk and branches. And now the boats seem to stand still, while troop- ing toward them came holly, juniper, cotton- gum, and sweet-bay scattered thickly among the lordly cypress. A species of bamboo-cane 240 NINTH REGIMENT, NEW YORK VOLUNTEERS. grew profusely, its graceful stems bending over the brown water, or standing stiffly erect in small huddling crowds. On the dry ridges were beech, and oak and through the over- hanging foliage the light struggled down sub- dued and soft as through cathedral windows. Nor was it indeed utterly desolate and voice- less. Occasionally the sweet notes of a song bird filtered through the trees or a startled gray crane, with ^discordant cry, flapped heavily upward from the water. Blue heron were sometimes seen, but quickly disappeared down the long vista before, or darted into a familiar bayou out of sight and danger. On one occasion a solitary negro appeared upon the elevated bank of the canal, and stared in open-mouthed wonder at the troops as they passed in slow review before him. To the many questions and salutations hurled' at him he re- turned no answer, but gazed in speechless astonishment at the gliding boats and their armed and uniformed passengers. Long after the flo- tilla had passed he remained on the bank, motionless as a statue, until the intervening foliage hid him from view. Speculation ran high among the more romantic and imaginative of the men as to who he was and where he came from. Had he escaped from a cruel master to liberty and a home in the great dismal swamp? Had THE ARRIVAL A T NORFOLK. 24 1 he eluded the overseer and baffled the blood- hounds ? Was he alone in this solitude ? Was his habitation near ? How did he subsist ? Was he still a slave or was he merely a "free nigger" engaged in the regular occupation of shingle making ? Some of the boys were by this time about ready to expect Tom Moore's ghostly Indian maiden with her white canoe and fire-fly lamp. Altogether the journey through the swamp was a pleasant experience, which for novelty and instruction could scarcely be surpassed. It was greatly enjoyed by all. On the morning of July 12th, the vessels ar- rived at their destination, and the regiment, dis- embarking, went into camp at old Fort Norfolk. They remained at Norfolk about a month, the time being passed, as usual, in the execution of drills and parades. It was at Norfolk that the increased number of visitors at dress parade first became noticeable. Many visiting soldiers, officers, as well as privates, were sure to grace the occasion of that ceremony with their presence. Some of the New York militia regiments who had responded to the President's call for thirty day troops, were then stationed at Fortress Monroe. They were eager to observe the Zouaves at drill, and many ob- tained passes and visited old Fort Norfolk for that purpose. 242 NINTH REGIMENT, NEW YORK VOLUNTEERS. The color line of the regiment was on ground recently cleared of trees, the stumps being left still standing. This was the cause of much dis- tress of mind to all the troops — men and officers alike, as the difficulty of marching or carrying out any movement among the obstructing stumps was very great. It was, nevertheless, the best of practice, and taught the men to pre- serve alignment with great precision under bet- ter or ordinary conditions. The manner in which the various companies moved out of their respective streets at the adjutant's call was a sight much appreciated by the visitors, judging by the generous applause bestowed each evening. The old smooth-bore muskets with which the men were originally armed, and which were known among them as "Columbiads," were here turned in and the new Springnelds issued in their stead, much to the delight of everyone, from the colonel to the drummer boys. The Springnelds were far handsomer in appearance, weighed less, and, as the calibre was smaller, the ammunition was lighter, the latter being a matter of no small importance. On July 24th, tents were struck, and the Ninth, with its camp equipage, embarked on the steamer " C. S. Terry," during a driving rain. The destination was Newport News, which was BA CK AT NE WPOR T NEWS. 243 reached about noon of the same day. The road here was lined with encampments of other regiments, past which the Ninth was obliged to march. The distinctive dress of the Zouaves disclosed their identity to the others at once, many of whom viewed them for the first time. Their reputation for tried and seasoned soldiers, however, had evidently preceded them for their passage was a continuous ovation. On a bluff near the James river, not far from the camp which it first occupied, the regiment halted and raised its tents. Ten days later (Sunday, August 3d) the regiment again broke camp in another drenching rain and boarded the steamer " New York," which in the after- noon carried them away to join the army of the Potomac. After a delay of about five hours at Fortress Monroe, the steamer proceeded at 9 o'clock p.m., up the now famous Potomac river reaching Acquia Creek about 10 o'clock the next forenoon. On ^the following day (August 5th) the soldiers were transferred to the steamer "Columbia," bound for Brent's Point, where they arrived about noon and boarded a railway train for Falmouth Station. Falmouth Station was on the Stafford side of the Rappahannock opposite the City of Fredricksburg, which" could be plainly seen from the camp. Here the regi- ment pitched its tents and named the place Camp Parke, after its brigade-commander. 244 NINTH REGIMENT, NEW YORK VOLUNTEERS. A detachment of one hundred men which had been left at Roanoke to pack up and guard the surplus stores left behind by the regiment, arrived on August 8th, under command of Captain Graham, bringing also the regimental uniforms. Knapsack drills were now the order of the day, but the Ninth showed they could maintain their perfect drill under any conditions. The regimental band had been re-organized and enlarged and the members clothed in new uniforms. Under the excellent leadership of Mr. Wallace, of New York City, their music was of a high order and their appearance decidedly attractive. The proficiency of the regiment in all matters pertaining to the duties of a soldier was shown in its complete mastery of military details. Guard mounting and guard duty, discipline, style and finish in the performance of the manual of arms, promptness and accuracy in the fulfillment of camp duties, and especially the efficiency of battalion drills and dress parades, very quickly attracted the attention of the members of neighboring regiments. Soldiers off duty, and occasionally officers, began' to notice the drills and parades, and they evidently spread the report among their comrades, for the audiences began to swell VISITORS AT DRILL AND PARADE. 245 daily until the parade ground was lined with a large crowd ere the parade began. Horse and foot came from all directions to view the Zouaves. In pleasant weather enlisted men by the hundred, mounted officers by the score, and even generals did not disdain to carefully scrutinize the movements. It is recalled with pride that General McClellan, who was at Fredericksburg for several days just previous to the withdrawal of the corps to Washington, was present with his staff on more than one occa- sion. The members of the regiment did not fail to notice the interest shown by the other troops and the resulting pride tended to strengthen their esprit de corps and assisted them to maintain their Iwh standard. The foregoing is not written with an intention to exaggerate, nor with a boastful spirit. Doubtless, there are still many of those specta- tors living at this writing who could vouch for its historical truth. To the little company of survivors of the regiment, however, these statements are known not to be exasperations, and they, through the instrumentality of this small history, assure their relatives and friends of its truth. The details for picket duty on the Orange Court House, Culpepper, and other roads leading from the city into the enemy's country, consisted of entire reoiments. 246 NINTH REGIMENT, NEW YORK VOLUNTEERS. When the Zouaves were detailed they always paraded in full dress uniforms, headed by the band with its new instruments, and led by Drum-Major Wiley, who was most gorgeously arrayed ; and their progress through the city, which was as though marching on review, attracted universal attention. There is little doubt that the appearance of a genuine Yankee regiment, in full dress, with colors flying, and band playing, had its effect upon the inhabitants of Fredericksburg. On August 1 2th, Company H was sent to guard Potomac Creek Bridge, and on the 14th, Lieutenant Herbert was detached with a force of twenty-nine men and two guns from Battery K, with orders to break up a rebel ferry, which was being operated some miles down the river. Embarking on the steamer "Cooper's Point," he hurried down the Rappahannock river to the ferry, the affair being managed so skillfully and secretly as to prove a complete surprise. After a brief conflict the detachment captured thirteen of the enemy with their side-arms, a quantity of baggage, and four horses, and after destroying all means of transportation at the ferry, returned safely without the loss of a man. At this time news was received of the crushing defeat of the army under Pope, and the invasion of Maryland by Lees forces ; and UNEASINESS A T FREDERICKSB URG. 247 General McClellan was once more placed in command of the Army of the Potomac. Some days before this rumors were circulated that bodies of troops had repeatedly been detached from the army and sent towards the right, up the Rappahannock. Reports were also rife about battles having been fought to the northwest of Fredericks- burg with varying results, and finally that the enemy had defeated Sigel and broken through the Union lines away towards the right. Great activity was also observed among the higher officers connected with headquarters, and the soldiers soon manifested a restless and uneasy feeling, which could not be well defined or described. It was not the same uneasiness which soldiers usually exhibited on the eve of a battle, but was more like the effect of a belief that some import- ant movement had resulted in failure, and that defeat and disaster were impending; still there was nothing tangible on which to base such a belief, beyond the mysterious camp rumors prevailing. It was an epidemic of uneasiness and unrest. Marching orders at last came to their relief, attended with great haste and consequent confusion. As the Zouaves moved from camp and marched over the hills near Falmouth, on 248 NINTH REGIMENT, NEW YORK VOLUNTEERS. the evening of August 31st, the sky reflected several large fires in as many different por- tions of the city. The troops intuitively recog- nized this as the destruction of stores and im- pedimenta which could not be saved for lack of time. The regiment took up the line of march which, though only fifteen miles long, will never be forgotten while the participants live. A furious rain storm had raged all the previous night while on picket, and the men with every- thing in their possession, excepting muskets and cartridges, were thoroughly soaked. Under any and all conditions these latter must be protected from injury. Tents were struck in the mud, and all regimental property which could not be carried on an active campaign was securely and strongly packed for storage. Here the theatrical properties and scenery which had been gotten up, or acquired while at Roanoke Island, had to be abandoned for lack of transportation. They had been carefully guarded and cared for by the men during the migrations of the regiment subsequent to the departure from that station, in the hope that an opportunity might present itself to again start the theatre, but at last they had to be left to the tender mercies of the " Rebs." Many a laugh was afterward indulged in by the men at the thought of how astonished the Johnnies must THE MARCH TO ACQUIA CREEK. 249 have been at coming into possession of such strange looking articles, and the way in which they must have stared at them and wondered and guessed at their uses. The breaking up of a camp involves an im- mense amount of labor, and as this work was begun the instant the regiment was relieved from picket no opportunity occurred for " clean- ing up " or drying clothes and blankets. The additional weight of soaked blankets to the knapsacks was a most trying burden to carry even on Qr-ood roads. At 6 p.m., the Zouaves moved forward on the road for Acquia Creek, and the night soon en- closed them in pitchy darkness. The rough and hilly roads, muddy and slippery from the recent rains, with occasional swollen streams to ford made marching almost intolerable. At last, about 5 a.m., weary, worn, blistered and bleeding, they reached the landing, and after a little delay marched about four miles to the bluffs over- looking the river where they bivouacked in line of battle to act as a support for the artillery there stationed and to cover the embarkation of the other troops. In company with other commands they re- mained on the hills for two days, destitute of tents or rations, until the remainder of the army, with all stores and camp equipage, had embarked on transports. 250 NINTH REGIMENT , NEW YORK VOLUNTEERS. On the 4th they marched back to the landing, and at 8 p.m., boarded the " Louisiana," bound for Washington, arriving there at 10 o'clock the next forenoon. Notwithstanding that lan>e numbers of troops had recently passed through that city, the inhabitants still showed their appreciation of a perfect company front, and the Zouaves' brisk change of manual while marching called forth frequent applause. After marching a few miles beyond the city limits they bivouacked on Meridian Hill. While in bivouac here and owin^' to the humid days and cool nights, accompanied by heavy dews, and the fact that the regiment was without tents, the men suffered severely. Soon, however, marching orders were received and preparations made for an arduous campaign. On September 7th Colonel Hawkins received leave of absence and, turning over the com- mand of his brigade to Colonel Fairchild, de- parted for New York City, regretting that it was obligatory for him to leave the army at the commencement of a new and what proved to be a most important campaign. The Ninth Corps now became incorporated with the Army of the Potomac, and the Zouaves won new and unfading laurels through their historic charge on the desperate field of Antietam. It may be as well to state that by reason of this WHAT FOLLOWED THE PENINSULAR CAMPAIGN. 261 leave of absence the ist Brigade, 3d Division, 9th Corps, then officially known as " Hawkins' Brigade," now became " Fairchild's Brigade," and it was so known and designated in all offi- cial reports and accounts of movements and battles which occurred during this most im- portant campaign. The Army of the Potomac in its campaign up the Peninsular had met with reverses in front of Richmond, and retreated to Harrison's Landing on the James river. In the meantime Major-General John Pope had been called from his successful campaign in the West, and placed in general command of the armies of McDowell, Fremont and Banks, although he was junior in rank to the other three generals. The purpose of this united command was to make a demonstration toward Gordonsville and Charlottesville and thus draw off part of Lee's forces from McClellan's front. On June 26th (which was the second day of the ''Seven Days' Fight") President Lincoln issued an order calling this command the "Army of Virginia." Early in July Jackson's corps was detached from Lee's army confronting McClellan at Har- rison's Landing, and on the 19th of that month was at Gordonsville confronting Pope, while 282 NINTH REGIMENT, NEW YORK VOLUNTEERS. Stuart's rebel cavalry division was sent toward Fredericksburg to watch the movements of the Union forces from that direction. During: his operations on the Virginia Peninsular McClel- lan received nearly 160,000 men. When Pres- ident Lincoln reviewed the army at Harrison's Landing on July 7th, he saw only 86,000, the remainder having been removed by disease or casualties on the field, fully 50,000 being victims of malaria and fever. The President and his cabinet now decided ' that an older and wiser soldier should be placed at the head of all the Federal armies, and as Gen. Henry Wager Halleck had shown ability in the west, he was summoned to Washington, and on July nth appointed commander-in-chief. Mr. Stanton, Secretary of War, strenuously opposed this appointment but was over-ruled. On July -30th, Halleck ordered McClellan to send away his sick as rapidly as possible, and telegraphed him August 3d : " It is determined to withdraw your army from the Peninsular to Acquia Creek. You will take immediate meas- ures to effect this." . . . McClellan protested against this movement, as did Generals Dix, Burnside and Sumner, but without effect. August 13th Longstreet's whole corps was sent to join Jackson at Gordonsville, to which place he had fallen back from Cedar POPE'S DEFEA T A T MANASSAS. 253 Mountain, and these forces were commanded by Lee in person. This left nothing but D. H. Hill's corps confronting McClellan, who, had he been permitted, might possibly have taken Richmond with very little resistance. The first of McClellan's troops arrived at Acquia Creek within seven days, and the last of the infantry within twenty-six days after the receipt of Halleck's order. Before the majority of these troops could reach Pope he abandoned his line on the Rap- pahannock to concentrate his whole force in the direction of Warrenton and Gainesville, to con- front the enemy who were rapidly marching to his right. Jackson, passing through Thoroughfare Gap, reached Manassas Junction in the rear of Pope, and between him and Washington, overcoming the small force left to guard the large quanti- ties of supplies gathered there. These he destroyed, while Stuart struck Catlett's Sta- tion, thirty-five miles from Washington, where were most of the Federal wagon trains, and destroyed what he could not carry off, the feat being a peculiarly daring and effec- tive one. Jackson made this wonderful march of fifty-six miles over difficult roads in the short space of thirty-six hours. These disasters were followed by the second battle of Bull Run, in 254 NINTH REGIMENT, NEW YORK VOLUNTEERS. which Pope was disastrously defeated, and his army stampeded toward Washington in as great disorder as in the first Bull Run ; in fact all communication between Pope and Wash- ington was cut off from August 26th until the 30th. The greatest panic prevailed in Wash- ington, and its early capture by the Confeder- ates was greatly feared, and yet it was defended by an army of 110,000 men, for in addition to Pope's army, which was falling back, there were 40,000 veterans standing before the lines who had not fired a shot in the campaign ; behind the lines 30,000 good men of the garrisons and the reserves, two-thirds of whom were veterans in discipline though untried in battle. General McClellan and staff rode into the city on the morning of September 2d, as one writer says : " Through an innumerable herd of strag- glers, mingled with an endless stream of waeons and ambulances, urged on by uncontrollable teamsters, which presently poured into Washing- ton, overflowed it, took possession of its streets and public places and held high orgie." Disorder reigned unchecked and confusion was everywhere. The clerks in the departments, many of whom had been hurried toward the front to do service as nurses, were now hastily formed into companies and battalions for defense. The THE MARYLAND CAMPAIGN. 255 Government ordered the arms and ammunition at the arsenal and the money in the treasury to be shipped to New York, and the banks followed the example. A gunboat, with steam up, lay in the river off the White House, as if to announce to the army and the inhabitants the impending flight of the administration. It was at this juncture that the President, on his own responsibility, once more charged General McClellan with the defense of the capitol. On the afternoon of the 7th (Lee's army having disappeared from in front of Washington) 87,000 men were in motion, and General McClellan set out for Rockville to put himself at their head, leaving 73,000 men, 120 field- pieces, and about 500 heavy guns in position, or nearly one-half of McClellan's entire army. General Lee, his army flushed with victories, had begun an invasion of the North by way of Maryland. Moving from Meridian Hill on the morning of the 7th of September, the Ninth proceeded some ten miles and went into bivouac. On the following day shelter tents were issued to the men. On the morning of the 9th reveille was sounded at three o'clock, and at sunrise march was resumed. A march of twelve miles brought the regiment to Brookville at 1 1 a.m., where it rested until 5 p.m., and once more 256 NINTH REGIMENT, NEW YORK VOLUNTEERS. took the road until 10 p.m., having made an additional ten miles and camped near Laytons- ville. The movement continued the follow- ing day in the direction of ^Frederick, but after travelling some four miles the regi- ment was ordered to retrace its steps to its last camp where it remained until 9 a.m., of the nth. Again starting for Frederick it passed Damascus at 1.30 p.m, and at five o'clock camped near Ridgeville, after a fifteen-mile march. Thus far the campaign had been of a pleas- ant nature, the weather had been fine, the absence of the accustomed mud being espe- cially noticeable, and all were in high spirits. The troops were in what appeared to be a friendly country, and in comparison with the Virginia they had seen, a beautiful one. The soldiers sauntered along leisurely enjoying the rural scenes and the pleasing sight of men pursuing their daily vocations, while women and children stood in doorways or leaned from windows to watch them pass. Horses and cattle were grazing quietly on field and hillside, and everything seemed to indicate peace and friendliness from the inhabitants who seemed to regard the troops as their army. Dust was the only disturbing element. The dry roads were so pulverized by the continuous march of THE MOVING ARMY. 257 thousands of men and miles of wagon trains and artillery, that the men moved literally in a cloud of dust which was dispelled only occa- sionally by a gentle breeze, but hardly long enough to obtain a view of the surrounding country. An abundant water supply along the route was a comforting refreshment, however, for which all felt truly thankful. When the regiment first moved out of bivouac on the 7th it became a portion of a great river of men rolling down toward Fred- erick. A large proportion of this stream of men bore but little resemblance to military organi- zations. Thousands went plodding along the road apparently entirely uncontrolled. Many organizations scattered among the mass kept well together in regular military formation and in good control of their officers. But the dis- organized ones were judged to have been por- tions of Popes command, which had not yet recovered from the demoralization the result of the severe campaign through which they had just passed. Lieutenant-Colonel Kimball was determined that the Ninth should not be contaminated by this loose example, and therefore issued string- ent orders against straggling on any pretense whatever. A strong detachment was each morn- ing detailed as a regimental rear guard during 238 NINTH REGIMENT, NEW YORK VOLUNTEERS. the day's march, with positive orders to permit no member of the regiment to fall out for any cause whatever unless ordered to an ambulance by one of the surgeons. This guard was main- tained until after leaving Frederick. It is but just to state that during the entire march not a man of the " Ninth " straggled from his regi- ment. The disorganized condition of portions of the troops above mentioned was corrected after the campaign was fairly under way. Each day saw an improvement, and within a week from the start, the entire army was as orderly and well disciplined in appearance as the most observant military critic could desire. Early on the morning of the 12th, march was resumed along the main turnpike across the Monocacy river for Frederick direct, which had been invaded by "Stonewall" Jackson's men. Newmarket was passed through at one o'clock, and about 3.30 p.m., the column was halted under the brow of Monocacy ridge. Scattering firing was heard a short distance ahead. The advance had struck the rebel army. Their rear guard pitched a few shot and shell at the advancing troops, more in the way of defi- ance than with a view of making any real resist- ance to the passage of the Monocacy bridge. The cavalry soon had the enemy on the run, crowd- ing them through Frederick and up into the SKIRMISHING AT THE FRONT. 259 Catocin mountains. It was noticed and com- mented upon by the rank and file that when these collisions occurred between the advance of the army and the enemy's rear guard, and it became necessary to employ infantry for his dislodgment, none of the veteran troops were detailed for that duty. As the troops moved along the road they would become aware that an engagement was taking place at some distant point ahead by the dull roar or growl of the artillery. This sound became more pronounced as they advanced, until the sharp crack of the Napoleons and sound of bursting shells became more distinct. If the resistance proved to be so stubborn that the available cavalry were not in sufficient force to overcome it, the column would come to a halt, while an infantry force strong enough to effect the object would be sent forward. These troops were always taken from the new regi- ments. On such occasions they were seldom if ever actually engaged, for by the time they were deployed and arrangements completed for the attack the enemy would generally move away to repeat the operation at the next favorable position found on their line of march. Thus, the recruits were made to believe that they had been in battle and had been vic- torious, though escaping without injury. This 260 NINTH REGIMENT, NEW YORK VOLUNTEERS. use of the new regiments was most satisfactory to the veterans. The boys who were not " sent in" had a rest, and what some of them liked still better, an opportunity to ironically praise the new men, who, moving past the line of resting veterans by the roadside, received an abundance of gratuitous advice as to their actions when they should strike the enemy, also very circumstantial accounts of what was tak- ing place at the front; the force of the enemy, what troops had just been repulsed, the number of killed, etc., etc., all being purely imaginary, and done for the purpose of frightening the recruits. All this was regarded as immensely funny by the veterans. When Lieutenant-Col- onel Kimball became aware of this practice, however, he at once put a stop to it, and severely lectured the men for their thoughtless- ness. The advance was now taken by the division to which the Ninth belonged (General Rod- man's) which descended the ridge, crossed the bridge, and when within half a mile of the out- skirts of Frederick, filed to the left until the whole command reached the open fields across the railroad, and moved in line by brigades, over fences and through the tall corn, where the alignment could only be maintained by observ- ing the tops of the numerous colors, the men FREDERICK CITY'S WELCOME. 261 jumping all obstacles and smashing down the fences with the butts of their muskets. The advance, composed of cavalry and light artillery, was busily engaged with the enemy. Sharp skirmishing was taking place in the streets, the fighting continuing through and beyond the city until night and darkness caused a cessation. Troops poured into the city from all the roads east and south, and the "Ninth" pitched its camp upon the rocky bluff overlooking the railroad near the depot. It was a night of the wildest excitement in Frederick, the streets being crowded with citizens who in every way displayed their loyalty and loudly welcomed the brave veterans who so hurriedly rushed to their protection. And it was a night ever to be remembered by the tired and footsore troops. To those fortu- nate enough to obtain passes into the city and who were not too weary to leave their bivouac, a scene was presented which is seldom wit- nessed even by soldiers of a victorious army. Every house was illuminated, as though for a victory, the streets crowded with citizens eager to welcome the soldiers of the grand old Army of the Potomac, while refreshments were offered to the men from every door- step, trays and baskets of food, water, lemon- ade, and other and more enticing drinks were 262 NIN'IH REGIMENT, NEW YORK VOLUNTEERS. forced upon the soldiers on every side. All residences were wide open to any one in uni- form who cared to accept an invitation to enter, and many a travel-stained and weather- beaten soldier enjoyed that night the only oc- casion of real, civilized, social entertainment which had fallen to his lot since leaving his northern home. Among the belated members of the regiment returning to camp in the " wee sma' hours," after reluctantly leaving their hospitable entertainers, were Lieutenants Bar- nett and Horner. They were so fortunate as to discover a fire which had broken out in the jail and threatened a serious confla- gration. It was thought probable that the fire might have been started by sympathizers or emissaries of the enemy who had just been driven out, for the purpose of throwing the city into confusion, and enabling them to further some scheme which would tend to seri- ously injure the Union cause. Barnett hur- ried to camp to report the matter to Kim- ball, while Horner hastened to the jail to render any help possible, pending the arrival of reinforcements, and to release and afterward prevent the escape of the large number of prisoners there confined. Colonel Kimball at once dispatched three companies to the scene under Captain Barnett, and they FIGHTING THE REAR GUARD. 263 arrived about the time that Horner and the jailer had succeeded in opening all the cell doors and were driving the confused and frightened prisoners into the jail yard. The wall surrounding the yard was quickly mounted by the Zouaves, which point of vantage enabled them to keep the prisoners under con- trol while the troops were fighting the flames and sentinels were being posted around the vicinity of the jail. No hostile demonstrations were made by either rebel sympathizers or the lawless ele- ment and after a while a regular regiment re- lieved the boys of the Ninth, who reached their camp about daybreak. Hardly had they turned in when reveille sounded, and for once the order to "fall in" was not obeyed with their accustomed alacrity. Almost as soon as coffee had been prepared and disposed of the Ninth was ordered out to the support of " Rush's Lancers " who, striving to drive back the rebel rear guard, found a detachment of them so strongly posted that infantry was required to dislodge them. Marching rapidly toward Jef- erson the regiment reached the place where the Lancers were engaged. The enemy had a mountain howitzer in the road which led up to the hill in front, but the supporting force was unknown. 264 NINTH REGIMENT, NEW YORK VOLUNTEERS. Companies C, H and I were sent to the right and Company B to the left of the road and deployed as skirmishers, the remainder of the regiment being held in reserve. Lieutenant-Colonel Kimball's dispositions of the regiment were so quickly made, and the advance began so promptly that the enemy's evident intention to fall back leisurely was rudely interrupted. Two detachments of their rear guard were struck so suddenly that they were scattered before either could return a shot, while some of them were wounded. One sharpshooter who failed to obey the scriptural injunction, " Stand not upon the order of your going," etc., was discovered by private Sam March of Company I, trying to conceal himself in a tree where he had taken position and was captured. It is not probable that this detach- ment intended to seriously resist infantry. They simply opposed the cavalry to gain time for their forces to get farther away, thinking to es- cape easily themselves and without loss, as soon as the infantry arrived within striking distance. From the summit of the ridge, over which a portion of the regiment now passed in skirmishing order, the whole valley stretching away to South Mountain lay exposed like a vast painted canvas. Far to the north- ward the village of Middletown was in flames. TWO ARMIES IN SIGHT. 265 At several points along the foot of the opposite ridge batteries were spewing out little clouds of curling smoke, pierced by angry tongues of fire. Cavalry troops were dashing here and there, the infantry more slowly but deliberately advancing or retreating, and artillery hurrying to some new point of vantage. On this im- mense stage the drama of war was being en- acted on a gigantic scale. In many a soldier's breast as he gazed on the scene were mingled the emotions of hatred, ambition and sorrow at the startling and impressive sight. Hatred for the offending foe, ambition to subdue him, and sorrow that men should have found it necessary to take each other's lives to establish a principle. But little time was given to philosophizing. The various companies of the regiment, includ- ing the battery reassembled on a road on the farther side of the ridge and marched rapidly toward the village of Jefferson or Jeffersonville. Fearing to be outflanked the enemy fell back, withdrawing the howitzer, while the Ninth eagerly pursued, but without avail, as the John- nies were too fleet. Arriving at Jefferson, arms were stacked in the street, pickets thrown out, and the in- habitants regaled the Zouaves with food of various kinds, which was eagerly devoured by the half-famished men. Officers and men took 266 NINTH REGIMENT, NEW YORK VOLUNTEERS. advantage of an opportunity to rest, and in a few moments nearly all were sleeping by the roadside. During the whole afternoon cannonading could be plainly heard from the direction of Harper's Ferry, where Jackson was then mak- ing his attack. The deep boom of the big guns and the sharper crack of the smaller ones was remarkably distinct, and as the men awoke and were on the quivive, they in im- agination followed the fortunes of the battle raging a few miles distant. While the Ninth was still awaiting orders General Franklin's command arrived and passed through the vil- lage in the direction of the firing. They were a most dilapidated looking lot, ragged and weather-beaten, and had evidently seen some pretty hard marching recently. From the leis- urely way in which they marched it was plain that like the Ninth they were not under orders for Harper's Ferry, where the battle was still raging. An officer — said to be General Frank- lin — and his staff, dismounted, procured some refreshments, and seating themselves on the porch of a house, ate with great deliberation. All subordinates in the army of whatever rank are well aware that there are superiors in abundance to do the thinking, and the rank and file are not presumed to exercise THE RETURN TO FREDERICK. 267 their brains on any subject or to contem- plate any time beyond the present. Still men of inferior rank, however lowly, have their own ideas and will cogitate over them, and during this period of rest at Jeffersonville there were many who thought it would be more pertinent to the occasion to move forward and create a diversion in favor of the men ahead who were fighting for their lives, rather than that thousands of men should stand listlessly hearkening to the cannonading at the Ferry, whose increasing volume 'plainly told them, which afterward proved to be correct, that their comrades were in sore need of assistance. About 6 p.m., all pickets were drawn in, with the exception of Sergeant Jackson, who was accidentally left on post with his men, but who fortunately succeeded in joining the regiment later, and the regiment started on its return to Frederick, which was reached before midnight, after a march of twenty- five miles. This was one of the most fatiguing marches the men had been called upon to make, not so much because of distance covered, as of their exhausted condition conse- quent upon the amount of labor they had been called upon to perform in the preceding forty- eight hours. On the 12th they had been in line of battle the greater part of the day, leav- 268 NINTH REGIMENT, NEW YORK VOLUNTEERS. ing the roads and advancing across country through field and wood, plowed land and meadow, which is the hardest kind of work entailed on the soldier, heavily weighted as he is with musket and equipments. Night had fallen when the regiment left Jeffersonville, and all passed pleasantly for a time. The men sung their customary march- ing songs and the woods rang with the cho- ruses. With the intention of making the march as easy as possible Colonel Kimball halted the column for a rest, at the most inopportune time, which proved to be unfortunate. The regi- ment had moved leisurely out of the village towards camp and the men had "limbered up" nicely and were in good marching condition and could have continued to Frederick in fairly good shape with little or no rest, but now the long halt which followed induced them to fall asleep. When the bugle sounded " forward " the boys were stiff and sore, and slowly responded to the call. There was no more singing, no more con- versation in the ranks. Each man felt fagged out, but doggedly plodded onward over the apparently endless road having no further desire for even a temporary rest. The only wish or thought was how to get through and reach the objective point in the shortest time possible, THE START FOR SOUTH MOUNTAIN. 269 knowing there would then be an opportunity to obtain the much required sleep. After what seemed like hours of marching the regiment reached Frederick, and proceeded haltingly and painfully through the silent and de- serted streets and at last arrived at the old camp. Throwing themselves on the hard earth the tired men enjoyed that sweet rest which the worn and footsore soldier can so well appreci- ate. Orders had been given to move at 3 a.m., and it seemed as though they had scarcely rolled themselves in their blankets ere the order came to " fall in," which was obeyed with the greatest reluctance, and without the accus- tomed promptness. Passing out of the city on the way to Fairville and Jerusalem, they arrived at Middletown at about 10 a.m. There the " Ninth" came to a halt after a rapid march of seven hours. Every appearance tended to im- press the observer with the belief that a battle was near. The regiment, which had evidently been started prematurely in the early morning, was marched into a field by the roadside with orders to "halt" and "rest." All felt that they were only waiting their turn to " go in " as the cannonading in front of them was increasing every moment. Brigades, divisions and corps which probably had remained in bivouac until after daybreak, streamed past to the front, while 270 NINTH REGIMENT, NEW YORK VOLUNTEERS. the Ninth waited by the roadside. It was evidently clear that their corps was not to be utilized until these other troops should reach their positions. The battle of South Mountain had opened and troops were being hurried forward to the front while the Ninth was ordered to rest. All hands were soon sound asleep, and continued so until 2 p.m., when, after a cup of good coffee they were ordered forward in the direction of the firing which had become ex- ceedingly brisk. Fording a small stream at the foot of South Mountain they filed into a narrow and rocky road leading to the summit, and while passing up the steep ascent met a stream of wounded men being transported rapidly to the rear. Working their way steadily up the mountain and also moving obliquely to the left to extend the line in that direction, they met with little opposition until nearing the position assigned them, when suddenly a rebel battery opened fire most vigorously. This did not check them in the least or cause any damage, the battery being situated so far above them on the top of the mountain that the enemy was unable to depress his guns to any marked degree but was obliged to fire straight ahead out into the " wide world," the shells exploding so far above the regiment that few casualties REPULSING A CHARGE. 271 resulted. The firing ceased shortly after and the position was gained without further oppo- sition. This cessation it was afterward learned was due to a charge made by an Ohio Brigade (the nth, 12th, and 23d Regiments), which com- pelled the battery to limber up and hastily withdraw and also temporarily clearing that part of the line of the rebel infantry. Battery E, 4th U. S. Artillery, occupied the position vacated by the rebel battery, and the " Ninth" moved into line to its support. Being on the extreme left of the army, the brigade was formed like the letter L, the Ninth being the base line, while the 103d and 89th New York were formed at right angles to it, extend- ing toward the rear. The battery faced down the line towards the left. The Ninth and 103d, with about two companies of the 89th, had arrived on the line when the enemy, who were concealed in a close thicket of laurel on the west slope of the mountain, suddenly dashed from their cover, and made an impetuous charge on the battery, yelling and discharging their muskets as soon as the forces were sighted. Without hesitation Colonel Kimball gave the order: "Right wing, attention ! Fix bayonets! By the right flank by file left, double quick. March !" and led the way through 272 NINTH REGIMENT, NEW YORK VOLUNTEERS. and between guns and limbers into the thick brush on the right of the battery beyond the view of the remainder of the regiment, to a position where he could strike the flank of the charging rebels. Meanwhile the battery was firing double charges of canister at point blank range, the enemy being so close that it was unnecessary to aim but simply point the guns after each discharge. The 103d after a mo- mentary unsteadiness, stood up to the work like good fellows, firing volley after volley, while the two companies of the 89th opened a steady, well-directed fire, the other companies joining in as each arrived on the line, the entire movement being as coolly and methodically performed as though on drill in winter camp. At this point an incident occurred which will illustrate the coolness under fire of Major Jardine who temporarily commanded the 89th New York. Shortly after the Ninth relieved the Ohio Brigade on the summit of the mountain, the left of the regiment being close to the battery, and the 89th following by the flank up the steep ascent, the sudden and unexpected dash of the enemy was so unlooked for that for an instant there was a halt in that part of the 89th not yet on the line, when Major Jardine sprang upon a stone wall on the left of the Ninth and JARDINE' S COOLNESS UNDER FIRE. 273 running diagonally toward it (the 89th) cried out: "Eighty-ninth New York, what in h — 1 are you about? Continue the movement!" In the meantime the battery men had picked themselves up from the grass and made their guns talk with grape and canister. Although the regiment had orders not to fire without command, Corporal Charles Curie, of Company C, acting sergeant and left-general guide, cocked his musket to await orders to fire, when Jardine, hearing the lock click, turned toward him, and said to Curie: " Put down that hammer. You know what the orders are. We want to meet the charge with the bayonet. You ought to be promoted for that." Major Jardine then jumped down from the wall and resumed command of the 89th, which he retained until after the battle of Antietam. He was subsequently presented by the officers of that regiment with a magnificent gold medal in appreciation of his meritorious services during the campaign. For a moment bullets seemed to fill the air and matters assumed a serious aspect, but the supporting line stood firm and poured in such withering volleys that the enemy recoiled and fell back suffering great loss. As darkness set in the Ninth was detailed for picket duty, and that night guarded the ex- 274 NINTH REGIMENT, NEW YORK VOLUNTEERS. treme left of the army. The howitzer battery of Company K was in reserve, supported by several companies to enfilade any attacking party who might attempt to surprise the picket line. General Reno's command kept up a con- tinuous fire with the enemy in his front for some two hours after dark, but on the left all was comparatively quiet throughout the night. Among the drummer boys who enlisted in the regiment at its organization was J. C. Julius Langbein. Although but thirteen years of age he was bright, intelligent and manly, but so smalt in stature and so feminine in looks that he could easily have passed as a girl. He at once received the sobriquet of "Jennie" from all the men, which name clung to him during his term of service and for years afterward. It may prove of interest to here produce part of a letter written by one of the wounded officers of the regiment to ist Sergeant Green, of Com- pany F, relating an incident which occurred during this battle — Company F being then de- tached from the regiment on garrison duty at Plymouth, N. C. : New York, December 3rd, 1862. "My Dear Jack: * * * Now, Jack I must tell you of my experience with ' Jennie ' the drummer, during this fight. Just as we were coming on to the line I noticed that he was with my company and was keeping pretty close to me. There was no firing on our part of the line just at the time. I noticed the boy particularly as it was such an unusual circumstance to see him away from his own company that I was obliged to. KEEPING HIS EYE ON THE LIEUTENANT. 275 He stood around while the brigade was forming and when the rebels burst out of the woods, and we were ordered to lie down temporarily, he squatted down right beside me. Of course, I was all alive to catch any order that might come from ' the old man,' but I saw what was going on all the same. About the time the rebel yell began to change its tone a little and their fire slackened up, Jennie very deliberately straightened up and looked all around surveying the situation. Saying to him pretty sharp, ' Sit down you d — d little fool, you'll get your head knocked off,' he looked at me with a kind of queer expression, hitched up his trousers and with the reply, 'that's what I came here for,' walked off towards the left where most of the firing was. After the rebels had been repulsed and things quieted down, he drifted back to my vicinity again. It was getting quite dark by this time, so dark that we could see the fire pour out of the muzzles of the guns and spatter like melted metal as it struck the ground. As soon as the firing had entirely ceased we sat down — tired, hungry and cold — and were exchanging confidences in relation to cur respective condition of emptiness, when one of the sergeants of the battery brought us something to eat and also blankets to sleep under. After eating and chatting for some time— Sullivan his name was ; E. of the 4th U. S. Artillery — we rolled ourselves in his blankets, and I, at least, tried to sleep. All this time the heaviest kind of a musketry fire — the heaviest and steadiest I ever heard— was being kept up on our right where our center was forcing its way up the mountain. At that time our line was like a bow with the concave side toward the enemy. I was in such a condition of nervousness, owing to the lack of grub and the mental and physical strain of the three preceding days, that I could not get to sleep at once, but I tried to rest and lay quiet so as not to disturb 'Jennie' should he be asleep. After lying quietly for a time he raised himself to a sitting posi- tion and after appearing to listen to the musketry for a while, said quietly: 'Are you asleep, Lieutenant?' I answered that I was not asleep; ' That's an awful heavy fire, Lieutenant,* he said, ' but I think the boys are driving them. It appears to be coming up the hill.' Then he heaved a deep sigh and lay down. He repeated this performance several times before I dropped off to sleep. In the morning he rolled up the blankets, took them over to the sergeant, and I suppose went to his company, as I saw him only once again during the day, when he came to tell me that the ' mess ' had something to eat and that I had better get up toward the right where it was or it would be all gone. Now Jack, I would like to know what you think of that for a fourteen year old drummer boy. I thought the thing over a good deal after I was wounded and I had nothing else to do but think, and I honestly think that boy believed it his duty, inasmuch as I was only a second 276 NINTH REGIMENT, NEW YORK VOLUNTEERS. lieutenant and was for the first time in command of a company in action, to keep his eye on me and see that I did not go wrong or do anything to bring discredit on the regiment. He was apparently satisfied with the way I behaved myself during the fight and went back to his own company with the consciousness that he could trust me to do what was right. In my next I will tell you something about the big battle, Antietam. Remember me to Captain Flusser and also to Captain Hammill and Lieutenant Perley. Yours sincerely, " The next day the Ninth was relieved and placed in reserve for a much needed rest. There were no rations obtainable, the wagon trains were not permitted to come forward among the moving troops on the roads and the men were forced to forage in the potato and cornfields, which had previously been visited by the rebels, consequently the supply obtained from these sources was decidedly slim. About 5 p.m., on the 15th, the regiment was ordered forward, and before moving down the western slope of the mountain came upon the scene of the previous day's heaviest fighting. The result of battle was here visible in all its ghastly horror. The enemy's dead were so numerous that at one point — a sunken road where they had made a determined stand — their bodies had to be removed from the road to make a passage- way for the troops. They were piled in heaps on either side. Their limbs contorted and their faces black as negroes, presenting a most DEATH OF GENERAL RENO. 277 horrible sight. It was near here about sunset that the lamented Reno lost his life while supervising his lines. He was in all respects a most admirable officer and his untimely de- cease was regretted by the entire army. There seems to be some uncertainty as to the manner of his death, some persons assert- ing that he was picked off by a rebel sharp- shooter, while at the present date (1899) others as positively assert that he met his death in a manner similar to that of " Stonewall " Jackson — was mortally wounded by his own men. In the gathering darkness, and being at the ex- treme front to assure himself that his lines were correct, he is said to have been mistaken for an enemy. To signify the high estimation in which the General was held by his superiors, we quote a well deserved tribute to his memory, in an article on "The Second Bull Run," written by Major-General Pope for the Century Maga- zine : " I rode along the front of our line, and gave the same information to Heintzleman and Reno. I shall not soon forget the bright and con- fident face and the alert and hearty manner of that most accomplished and loyal soldier, Gen. J. L. Reno. From first to last in this campaign he was always cheerful and ready ; anxious to anticipate, if possible, and prompt to execute with all his might the orders received. "He was short in stature and upright in person, and with a face and manner so bright and engaging at all times, but most especially noticeable in the fury of battle, that it was both a pleasure and a com- fort to see him. In his death, two weeks afterward, during the battle of South Mountain, when he led his troops with his usual gallantry and daring, the Government lost one of its best and most promising 278 NINTH REGIMENT, NEW YORK VOLUNTEERS. officers. Had he lived to see the end of the war, he would undoubt- edly have attained one of the highest, if not the very highest position in the army. " His superior abilities were unquestioned, and if he lacked one single element that goes to make a perfect soldier, certainly it was not discovered before his death." General Cox in his report, says : " A 'little before sunset Reno came up in person, anxious to know why the right could not get forward quite to the summit. After a few moments' conversation with me he passed on to Sturgis. It seemed to me hejwas hardly gone before he was brought back upon a stretcher, dead. He had gone to the skirmish line to examine for himself the situation there, and had been shot down by the enemy posted among the rocks and trees." The 9th Corps followed hotly on the rear of the flying enemy, crossing Little Antietam Creek near Keedysville, and fording another small stream near Locust Spring. It was now nearly 1 1 o'clock, and the men were thoroughly exhausted by the severe marches of the past week, and were delighted to hear the command "Halt!" given for the night. Stopping at the foot of Red Hill, they threw themselves on the ground, too fatigued to put up any shelter, and awaited the forth- coming of rations, but were again disappointed, as no wagons could be found, and they passed another night nearly famished. About 8 a.m., of the 16th, the rebels opened their batteries upon the Union forces, who re- plied spiritedly until 1 1 o'clock, when the enemy retired. The position of the bivouac occupied by the GETTING INTO LINE OF BATTLE. <2.1