STORIVIONT m Mi Class _i Book !_^ SitwJ^JLlIl COPYRIGHT DEPOSm '^ IP 'li ( \ ■A I cJ^^^^i^J-^^S^^Ajh, HIvSTORY OF THE Fifty-Eighth Regiment OF INDIANA VOLUNTEER INFANTRY. ITS ORGANIZATION, CAMPAIGNS AND BATTLES FROM 1861 TO 1S65. FROM THE MANUSCRIPT PREPARED BY THE LATE CHAPLAIN JOHN J. HIGHT, DURING HIS SERVICE WITH THE REGIMENT IN THE FIELD. COMPILED BY HIS FRIEND AND COMRADE, GILBERT R. STORMONT, [formerly CORPORAL CO, b] PAST DEPARTMENT COMMANDER INDIANA G. A. R. EDITOR PRINCETON (IND.) CLARION. ILLUSTRATED WITH MAPS OF CAMPAIGNS AND MARCHES, AND PORTRAITS OF A NUMBER OF OFFICERS AND ENLISTED MEN OF THE REGIMENT. PRINXPrrON : PRESS OF THE CLARION. \ ^\ I I /■ / y-l./^/'_ Entered according to act of Congress, in the jear 1S95, By gilbert R. STORMONT, in tiie office of the Librarian of Congress, at Washington. ^^ o fe i r^ TO THE COMRADES OF THE FIFTY-EIGHTH INDIANA REGIMENT, LIVING AND DEAD, WHOSE STRENGTH OF PATRIOTISM AND VALOR IN BATTLE HAS NEVER BEEN SURPASSED TO THE MEMORY OF HIM WHO SO FAITHFULLY RECORDED AND SO CAREFULLY PRE- SERVED THE EVENTS HERE NAR- RATED, THIS VOLUME IS RESPECTFULLY DEDICATED. CONTENTS. CHAPTER I. PAGE Preliminan' Events of iS6i — How the News of tlie Firing on Fort Sumter Aroused the Loval People — Enthusiastic Response to the Call of Governor Morton — Companies and Regiments in Southern Indiana — The ^Sth Indiana Regiment in Camp Gibson 21 CHAPTER II. On the Way to the Front — First Experience in Camp — On the March to Bardstown — Brigade Organization — Flag Presentation — Through Kentucky — Tennessee — At Nashville 33 CHAPTER III. Personal Experiences — How a Local Methodist Preacher Became an Army Chaplain — Difficulties and Discouragments in Getting Started — Observations by the Way — Arrival at Nashville — At the Regi- mental Camp — A Cold and Cheerless Reception — An Unfavorable Impression of Camp Diet and Arrangements for Sleeping 42 CHAPTER IV. Forward Movement — On the Way to Savannah — Some of the Officers in Command — Baggage and Equipments — Through Franklin — Columbia — Some Fine Plantations — Grapevine News — Incidents of the March — Weary and Sick Soldiers — Burial by the Wa^'side — Sound of Battle — Hurrying to the F'ront — Pittsburg Landing 4S CHAPTER V. On the Battlefield of Shiloh — First Impressions of Pittsburg Landing — Visible Eftects of the Great Battle — Distress, Misery and Mud Everywhere — Rumors of a Renewal of the Engagement — Marching to the Front over the Battle Ground — Evidences of the Dreadful Carnage — Resting on Arms, Waiting for the Enemy — Review of the Two Days' Battle and the Events Preceding — Some Critical Comments on the Conduct of Commanding Officers 60 CHAPTER VI. Shiloh to Corinth — Camping Among the Dead — Uncomfortable Qiiart- ers — Moving Toward the Enemj-, by Slow Degrees — General Hal- leck as a Commander — Corinth Evacuated — Halleck Outwitted by Beauregard 7^ 6 CONTENTS. CHAPTER VII. From Corinth to McMinnville— Getting out of Malarial Swamps into a Healthful Country— Incidents of the March Through Alahama— Tuscumhia— Mooresville— Hot Roast at Iluntsville— Forced March to Shelbyville — Enjoying Life at Decherd — Up the Cumberland Mountains and Back Again— Watching the Movements of Bragg— A Brush with Forest 75 CHAPTER VIII. Retreat from McMinnville to Louisville --Through Murfreesboro — Nashville — Bowling Green— Fight at Mumfordsville— Rapid March- ing After Bragg — Arrival at Louisville — Tired, Ragged, Dusty and Discouraged ^9 CHAPTER IX. Louisville to Nashville— Driving Bragg from Bardstown— Following him Through Springfield— Long and Dusty Marches— Water Scarce— Battle of Perryville— Dilatory Movements— Blundering — Bragg, with his Booty, Escapes — Turning Toward Nashville — An October Snowstorm — Columbia — Glasgow — Silver Springs — Look- ing after Morgan — Again at Nashville 9S CHAPTER X. Stone River Campaign — Preliminarr Events — Official Changes — Mov- ing on to Murfreesboro— Sharp Fighting at Lavergne — Driving the Rebels Across Stewart's Creek— Opening of the Stone River Battle —Panic on the Right— The ^Sth Holds the Key Point— Engage- ment on the Left — Incidents of the Several Days" Battle — Casualties. loS CHAPTER XI. In Camp at Murfreesboro — Reorganization of the Army — Drill, Picket Duty and Foraging — Enjoying Camp Life — A Military Execution — Close Call for a 5Sth Deserter — Appeal of the Officers Prevails — Pardoned by the President — Plans for a Regimental Monument Perfected i::S CHAPTER XII. Advancing on TuUahoma — Marching Through Mud anil Rain — Climb- ing the Mountain — Demonstration of Cannon County People — Tullahoma Evacuated — In Camp at Hillsboro — Killed by an Over- Zealous Guard — Excitement and Indignation in the 5Sth — Military Funerals — Religious Services in Camp — Celebrating the Fall of Vicksburg and Victory at Gettysburg — Numerous Events of Inter- est Detailed 146 CONTENTS. CHAPTER XIII. On to Chattanooga — Crossing Cumberland Mountains — Sequatchie Valley — A Fertile Spot — False Alarm — Fruitless Expedition — Bob White, the Union Spy — Crossing the Tennessee — Nickajack Ca%'e — First View of Lookout Mountain — Reconnoisance — Chattanooga Evacuated — Wood's Division Occupies the Town 167 CHAPTER XIV. Chickamauga — Movements and Position of the Armv--Crittenden's Corps Moves after Bragg — Stubborn Opposition — Discovery of Rebel Plans — Critical Condition of Rosecrans' Army — Concentra- tion at Lee and Gordon's Mills — Opening of the Battle — Fifty - eighth in the Fight — Charging the Enemy — Noble Lives Sacrificed — A Night on the Battlefield — Changing Position — Battle of the 20th — Break in the Lines — Confusion and Disaster — The Rebels Checked — Rosecrans' Army Saved 175 CHAPTER XV. Siege of Chattanooga — Falling Back from Rossville — Evidences of Demoralization— Preparations for Defence — Chattanooga will be Held — Reorganization — Getting in Position — Rebel Demonstrations from Missionary Ridge and Lookout Mountain — Short of Rations — A Battle at Night .. 197 CHAPTER XVI. Battle of Missionary Ridge — Record of Events Preceding that Engage- ment — Hooker's Battle Above the Clouds — The Star Spangled Banner Waves over Lookout Mountain — Sherman's Success on the Left — Cheering Prospect for the Union Army — Army of the Cum- berland Advances ^ — -Magnificent Pageant — Charging the Rebel Rifle Pits — Onward and L'pward, Without Orders — Crest of the Ridge Gained — Bragg's Forces Routed — The Victory is Complete — Casualties of the Fifty -eighth ... 211 CHAPTER XVII. Knoxville Campaign — An Unpropitious Beginning of a Tour into East Tennessee — Condition of the Tourists — Incidents of the March — Siege of Knoxville Raised — Longstreet Still Hovers About — March- ing Without Sense — A Foolish Panic — More Foolishness — Suffer- ing from Cold and Himger — The \'eteran Qiiestion — Re-enlistment as a Regiment — Return to Chattanooga 22S 8 • CONTENTS. CHAPTER XVIir. Cliattanooga and Vicinity — Wonderful Changes tliat have Taken Place and are in Progress — A Strong Military Post — Preparations for Another Campaign — National Cenietery--A Visit to Lookout Mountain — Relics of the Recent Battle — The Re enlistment (Ques- tion Settled — The Regiment Finally gets Started Homeward — Inci- dents of the Journey . 250 CHAPTER XIX. Indianapolis to Chattanooga — Furlough Ended — Returning to the Front — Louisville to Nashville by Rail — "Hooting it" to Chattanooga — Incidents by the Way — Familiar Camping Places Revisited — Arrival at Chattanooga — Preparing for an Active Campaign — Drilling — Fatigue Duty — The Pontoon Service 267 CHAPTER XX. Beginning of the Atlanta Campaign — Chattanooga to Resaca — Inci- dents Preliminary to the Move — Breaking Stone — Organization of Regimental Christian Commission — Racket with Colored Troops — Small-pox — Pontoon Train Starts for the f>ont — Over Familiar (i round — Chickamauga Battlefield — Sound of Battle on the Left — Hurrving the Pontoons to the Front — Battle of Resaca — Flight at Lav's Ferry — Crossing the Oostanaula — Resaca Abandoned by the Rebels — Sherman's Army in Full Pursuit iSS CHAPTER XXI. Progress of the Atlanta Campaign — From the Oostanaula to the Chat- tahoochee — Crossing the Etowah — Johnson's Position at AUa- toona Flanked — About Burnt Hickory — Skirmishing all Along the Line — Repairing Bridges — Pontoons at Etowah Station — Incidents of the Forward Movement — Ackworth — Pine Mountain — Kenesaw — Marietta — Fronting Rebel Ritle Pits Across Chattahoochee 301 CHAPTER XXII. Along the Chattahoochee — Moving up the River — Surprising the Enemy at Phillips' Ferry — Bridging the Stream at Several Points — Driv- ing the Rebels Back — Some Severe Fighting — Night Expedition to Sandtown — Change of Rebel Commanders — Progress of the War, East and West — A Sick Chaplain — Leave of Absence ._ 339 CHAPTER XXIII. On Furlough— A Chapter Pertaining to Personal Matters — Delays and Discomforts of Travel by Rail — At Chattanooga — At Nashville — At Louisville — At Home — How the Time was Spent — What I Saw and Heard — How I Got Back to my Regiment 351 CONTENTS. 9 CHAPTER XXIV. PAfjE An Expedition to Sandtown — Crossing Kiipatrick's Cavalr}- — A Raid to the Rear of Atlanta — Stirring up the Enemy — Following our Cavalry — A Critical Situation — Preparation for Defence — The Rebels do not Come — March to Jonesboro — Atlanta Evacuated — Campaign Ended — Back to Chattahoochee — Our Regimental Camp — Other Matters of Importance ^C>2 CHAPTER XXV. In Camp on the Chattahoochee — Some Exciting Incidents to Vary the Monotony — Desertion of Shaw, Fullerton and Pierson — Capture of our Mules — Exciting but Fruitless Chase — Communications with the North Severed — New Recruits — Watch Presentation — Non- Veterans Return Home — Preparations to Join Sherman in his March to Sa\annah — Leaving our Pleasant Camp 3S2 CHAPTER XXVI. From Atlanta to the Sea — Moving Out from Chattahoochee — Burning our Q^iarters — Destruction of Atlanta — A Gorgeous Spectacle at Night — Pathetic Scenes — The Grand Army Moves Out in Three Cohmins — The Pontoniers Divided — A Historic Battlefield — Mil- ledgeville — Bridging the Oconee — Buffalo Creek — Sandersville — Ogeechee — Rocky Comfort — Refugees — Heartless Conduct of Gen- eral Jeft". C. Davis at Buck Head Creek — Also at Ebeneezer — Plenty of Variety and Excitement to Suit Everybody 406 CHAPTER XXVII. "And so We Made a Thoroughfare — For Freedom and llcr Tiain — Sixty Miles of Latitude — Three Hundred to the Main — Treason Fled Before us — For Resistance was in Vain — \V'hile we were Marching Through Georgia — Closing in Around Savannah — News from our Fleet — The City Evacuated — Occupying the Place — Some- thing of its History — Places of Interest Visited and Described 431 CHAPTER X.XVHI. Leaving Savannah--Marching Through Georgia Qjiicksands — Stuck in the Mud — At Sister's Ferry — Torpedoes — Preparation for Crossing the River — Difficulties in the Way — A Flooded Country — Pontoons and Perseverance Never Fail — Into South Carolina — No Leniency for that Rebellious State — Incidents of the March 460 CHAPTER XXIX. Carolina Campaign Continued— Lexington District — An Abundance of Forage — War's Desolation — Thoughtless Destruction — Crossing Broad River Under Difficulties — Bad Generalship — At Winsboro — Columbia — Charleston ICvacuated — General Sherman — Officers of 10 CONTENTS. the 14th Corps — A Roast for General Davis — Crossing the Cataw- ha — Disaster to the Pontoon Bridge — The Boy that Stood on the Bridge — In North Carolina — Favelteville — Events Crowding upon Events 4S0 CHAPTER XXX. At Goldsboro — Close of a Campaign Full of Exciting Events^Some Severe Fighting — In Communication with Home and Friends Once More — Preparing for the Final Campaign — News of the Fall of Richmond — Lee's Surrender — Great Rejoicing — Moving on Toward Johnson's Army — Now for a Completion of the Work of Crushing the Rebellion 506 CHAPTER XXXI. Closing Events of the War — ^Johnston's Surrender — Peace Declared — On our Homeward Journey — Raleigh — Richmond — Bull Run — Alexandria — Washington — The Great Military Review — Farewell to the Pontoon Train — On to Louisville — Impatiently Waiting the Order to Go Home — At the Dedication of the Regimental Monu- ment — Mustered Out — Home Again 526 CHAPTER XXXII. From Chickamauga to Richmond — How Sergeant W. B. Crawford was Compelled to Make the Journey — Some of the Experiences of a Prisoner of War — Taunts and Jeers by the Way — Thieving Propen- sities of the Captors--Likewise their Inhumanity — Their Utter In- difference to the wants of the Prisoners — Sickness, Hunger and Starvation — Incidents in Pemberton Prison — At Danville — Tunnel- ing — In Hospital — Exchanged — Under the Stars and Stripes Once More — An Entry Into the Better Land 541 APPENDIX. One of Sherman's Bummers 55S The Army Poet ^f>2 Chaplain Hight's Report to Conference ._ 564 Biographical Sketches — Dr. Andrew Lewis ,- 567 General George P. Buell... 56S Lieutenant-Colonel Joseph Moore 571 Lieutenant-Colonel James T. Embree .. 572 Colonel H. M. Carr _ 573 Chickamauga and Chattanooga National Park _. 574 ILLUSTRATIONS. PAGE John J. I light Frontispiece Gilbert R. Stormont 14 President Lincoln 23 Dr. Andrew Lewis 26 Mrs. Ophelia Hanks Mowry 36 Mrs. Irene Kirkman Coolidge 3S Mrs. John J. IIight_ 43 Lieutenant-Colonel Joseph Moore 52 Captain C. C. Whiting 58 Dr. W. W. Blair 63 General George P. Buell 76 Captain J. M. Smith So Dr. J. R. Adams 85 Andrew Gudgel 96 Dr. W. R. McMahan 109 John M. Stormont 125 Monument of Fifty-eighth Indi- ana Regiment . 143 Captain Charles II. Bruce 190 Captain William E. Chappell 2oy General P. II. Sheridan .. .. 214 Valentine E. Ilobbs 221 Monroe Key 232 Isaiah S. Hay 245 James C. Knox 275 PACJE Map of the Atlanta Campaign 303 Captain IIenr^• Torrence 311 Gilbert Armstrong 337 Qiiincy A.Harper 354 George W. Gasaway 360 Destroying a Railroad 365 S. F. Utley. 386 Thos. J. Haddock 399 Map of Marches through Georgia and the Carolinas 429 Dr. S. E. Holtzman 462 Rev. Wiley Knowles 47S Rev. Abner M. Bryant 510 John W. Emmerson 515 R. M. Munford 518 Captain William Davis 519 Henry Hudson Phillips z^22 Captain J. E. Voorhees 527 Andrew McMaster 530 Lieutenant Zack Jones 532 George W. Shopbell 535 Joseph N.Davis 53S Rev. William B. Crawford 543 W. J. Redburn.. 559 STATEMENT. DURING his army service, Chaplain Hight kept a daily journal of events, writing down, in detail and with precision, everything of interest that transpired in the Regiment, and such incidents connected with the army as came under his personal observation. These notes were made day by day as the events occurred, or at least while the events were fresh in his memory. The manu- script was carefully preserved and from time to time, as opportunity offered, the completed sheets were sent to his home. Thus, at the close of the war there had accumu- lated nearly two thousand pages of this manuscript. It was the writer's intention to revise and arrange this for pub- lication, but on account of other duties more pressing this purpose was postponed from time to time. The collection of manuscript, however, was carefully preserved among his papers, waiting for a leisure time in the busy life of the author, when he could carry out his purpose of preparing this history for publication. That leisure time never came. In the midst of the activities of life he was stricken down by the hand of disease, and his life work was soon ended. The work he had laid out concerning the publication of the book must be done by others, if done at all. At a meeting of the 58th Indiana Regimental Association, held in Princeton, in December, 1892, the matter of taking up and completing the work contemplated by Chaplain Might was presented. Mrs. Hight was present at this meeting and offered to donate to the Association the manuscript of her late husband, provided a way could be found to publish the book. She also offered whatever assistance she might be able to contribute towards this undertaking;. The unani- mous expression of all tlie members of the Regiment was STATEMENT. 13 in favor of publishing the book, and a commiltce was appointed to devise ways and means for the accomplishment of this desire. This committee was composed of Mrs. Mary M. Hight, G. R. Stormont and Dr. W. R.'McMahan. After due consideration the committee reported in favor of raising a guarantee fund, by voluntary subscriptions, by which an amount might be secured to pay the expense of publishing the book. This plan was approved at a meeting of the Executive Committee of the Regimental Association, and steps were at once taken to secure the required number of subscriptions to the proposed guarantee fund. For one cause and another the project was delayed, so it was some months before the committee was able to announce that the guarantee fund had reached an amount sufficient to justify undertaking the work. At this time the publishing com- mittee was increased by the addition of the "other members of the Regimental Executive Committee. In April, 1894, this committee entered into a contract with Gil. R. Stormont, publisher of the Princeton Chxrion, to revise and arrange the manuscript, and to publish the same in a substantial book, in accordance with the specifications submitted. Within a short time after this the work was begun by the compiler and publisher, and has been pushed to completion as fast as possible under the circumstances. As to the arrangement and mechanical execution of the work, the book itself is submitted in evidence. The Com- mittee believes that it is a work that does honor to the memory of Chaplain Hight and to the Regiment to which he w^as so earnestly devoted. Mrs. Mary M. Hight, Dr. W. R. McMahan, Gil. R. Stormont, Capt. C. C. Whiting, Dr. W. W. Blair, R. M. Munford, John M. Stormo.xt, Publishing Committee, PREFACE. IN the catalogue of books pertaining to the war this volume will occupy a somewhat unique place. Unlike other histories of the war period, it is not made up from memory of events long after they have transpired, but is a record written day by day, while the events were fresh in the writer's mind. The book does not make any pre- tensions to accurate description of the general move- ments of the army ; all this has been done, and sufficiently done, in other publications. This is a simple story of what was done by one Regiment — a very small part of the grand army — in the work of crushing the rebellion. It is a plain recital of the minor incidents in the daily life of one of the Regiments that was but an insignificant part of that mighty host, beneath whose tread a continent was rocked more than a quarter of a cen- turv ago. It is a record of the personal experiences and observations of one individual who, as a part of one of the minor organizations of this grand army, shared the priva- tions and dangers common to all. It is a pen picture of a soldier's life in camp, on the march and on the battlefield. It is the drawing aside of the veil that hides scenes of the past, and disclosing to view, in a most realistic manner, events that were so familiar to those who participated in them, a generation ago. In the arrangement of Cluiplain 1 light's manuscript for publication the compiler has endeavored to preserve the gen- eral features of the text, and carry out the design of the author, so far as this was known from personal expressions GILBERT R. STORMONT, COMPILER AND PIBLISHRR. PREFACE. 15 frequently made before his death, and from expressions found in the manuscript itself. Only such changes were made as seemed to be necessary to conform to this general design. The greater part of the writing was done by the author under circumstances that were not con- ducive to the most careful thouo-ht. Often the facil- ities for writing were of the crudest sort ; and yet a very remarkable feature of this most remarkable col- lection of manuscript, is that it was so well written and was kept in such excellent condition. In the earlier months of the Re<;iment's service the historv was written in skeleton, and man}^ important facts were either omitted or were presented in a fragmentary shape. To fill out such omitted portions the compiler had to rely on his own private diary, which he fortunately found, covering that period, aided by his memory of those events. But for the most part the manuscript of Chaplain Hight was com- plete, and the editor's talent was most largely exercised in condensing and eliminating, in order to bring the matter within the compass of a book of reasonable size. Chaplain Hight had a style of writing peculiarly his own, and the reader will have little difficulty in distinguishing it from any other. He was very much disposed to speak plainly, and was not sparing in his criticism of men and measures that fell short of his ideal standard. He was thoroughly demo- cratic in his ideas and had an utter detestation of snobs and the snobbish ways, so commonly manifested among officers in the army. Chaplain Hight was a Christian and a patriot. His faith in his countr}^ was as unwavering as his faith in his God. He never entertained a doubt as to the final result of the war, because he believed that the cause for which the Union army contended was right, and that the God of right and justice was on our side. His expectation was tluit the curse of slavery would be abolished and the Union would be more firml}^ established, as the result of the war, and it was his privilege to live to see the full fruition of his dearest hope. 16 PREFACE. In the preparation of this volume, the writer acknowl- edo-es his indebtedness to a number of persons for favors extended and valuable assistance rendered. Among these special mention is made of Rev. David B. Flo3^d, of New- ville. Pa., author of "The History of the 75th Indiana." In addition to many useful suggestions, cheerfully given by him, he kindlv permitted the use of some of the cuts which had appeared in his book. These are the cuts which appear in this volume on pages 303, 365 and 429. Acknowledgement is also due Rev. J. H. Ketchum, of Mt. Vernon, Indiana, for the Introduction which he so kindly furnished. For such matter as appears in this work, in foot notes, as extracts from various authors, due credit is given in connection there witli. And now, the task assigned me having been completed, this volume is submitted as m}^ best conception of what was reqviired. There has been no small amount of labor and responsibility involved in the work. But there has also been much of pleasure in living again, as it seemed, in the old times and participating again in the stirring scenes of arm}'- life. Such experience will doubtless come to many who read these pages. To many, there will come memories that will awaken sorrow and start the tears afresh, but when the mind reverts to the present, we may all rejoice in the fact that peace and joy have spread their silver wings over the deso- lations and bereavements of the past, and that we now have, as a result of the sulTerings endured and sacrifices made, a regenerated republic — a free and \inited people, with one country and one flag. GILBERT R. STORMONT. Princeton, Ind., August, 1895. INTRODUCTION. TWK chapters contained in this \()hnne are trraphic pen- pictures of arm}- life, hv the hite Dr. John J. Higlit, whih^ Chaplain of the gallant 58th Indiana Regiment. Tiie places, the persons, the scenes and the incidents iierein described are true pictures, drawn bv a close observer of men and affairs, and reads like a tale of romance. To the man}' friends of the deceased author this book will be a rare souvenir of priceless value. How it will be prized, espec- ially by tlie surviving members of his old Regiment. As the battle scared veteran, now nearing his end, peruses its pagt\s what memories of the past will crowd his mind. What visions of bv-gone vears now rise before him. He lives his armv life over again. He hears the shout of battle, liie roar of cannon, the rattle of musketr^' and the clash of arms. Amid the wounded and tiie dving that lie here and tliere on the field of carnage and death there bends a majestic form, doing all in his power to alleviate their sufferings and cheer up their feinting hearts. Who is he? Why, that is the faithful Chaplain, loved and respected b}'- every man in the Regiment. Many a mother, as she reads in this book a touching ref- erence to her sick soldier boy, and how tenderly he was cared for by this good man, will thank God in her heart, and bless the name of John J. Hight. This book will alike be interesting to the members of the Indiana Conference, with whom Dr. Hight was associated for a third of a century, and the people of the respective charges he served as pastor. In every sentence and para- graph will stand out in bold relief some characteristic of Chaplain Hight; "How that sounds like John," will be said time and again bv those who knew iiim intimately. 1» IXTRODKTFOX. Tlie new generation will also read this book, not only ior the valuable information it contains, but the vein of humor and occasional flashes of wit running through every chapter. But to the cultured wife and daughter, who still live to mourn the loss of a faithful husband and affectionate father, this book will be an invaluable treasure, and ever remind them of one of the purest lives that ever lived. After awhile it may be asked. Who was Chaplain Might? What State in the Union produced such a man ? WHiere did he come from ? and What was the secret of his success in life? The men of the Grand Army of the Republic are rapidly passing away. Few are left. Tiie great majorily who battled under the flag of our country for its life, are sleeping their last sleep. The time is not far distant in the future when the last living comrade of tiiese dead will cross the dark river, to join the great armies gone before. Tiie early associates of Chaplain Hight, in the ministry, are just as rapidly passing away. Of those who constituted the Indiana Conterence when he entered, only a handful remains. Soon the gates will open and tlie last one pass out into the unseen. For the benefit of those who are to come hereafter — the children's children — of the surviving veterans, and thous- ands of others, the following brief sketch of the life, char- acter and work of Chaplain Hight is herein inserted by one who was the friend and companion of his youth : Born in Bloomington, Ind., December 4, 1834, and died in Cincinnati, Ohio, December 18, 1886. Graduated in the Indiana State University with credit to himself and that institution, August 4, 1854. United with the M. E. Church in his native town, Novem- ber 20, 1853, and entered the traveling connection in the Indiana Conference November 15, 1854. His flelds of labor were diversified. Two years were spent in circuit work ; eleven in station work ; three as Chaplain in the Union army ; one as Centennary agent in the interest of our denominational schools: four in district work INTRODrCTION. 19 as Presiding Elder, and eleven as associate editor of the West cm Christian Advocate. Thus, for nearly a third of a century Chaplain I light was prominently before the public. With tongue and pen, bv precept and example, with tears and entreaties, he labored to exalt the race and make the world better. He had all the instincts and elements of the true reformer, and it was his soul's delii/ht to battle for the rio-ht. And now that we no longer see his manly form among the children of men, nor hear his voice in trumpet tones rallying the hosts of right- eousness to greater conquests, we cannot make him dead ; "There are no dead." It is true, many of them are gone ; singly the}' came, singly they depart. When their work was done they lay down to sleep : but never one hath died. Chaplain Hight had great hope in the future for his coun- tr^•. He believed the bitterness engendered by sectional strife woidd ere long die out, and the flag he loved wave in the sunsiiine of peace and prosperity throughout the length and breadth of our vast domain. Then •'Some sweet bird of the South, Would build in everv cannon's mouth Till the only sound from its rusty throat Would be a wren's or a blue bird's note." To-day, if Chaplain Hight could whisper in mortal ear across the great gulf betwixt this and the life beyond, he would say to his friends that still linger on the shores of time, "So live that when the Mighty Caravan, Which halts one night time in the vale of death, Shall strike its white tents for the morning march Thou shalt mount onward to the eternal hills; Thy foot unwearied and thj strength renewed I.ike the strong eagle's, for the upward flight." J. H. KETCHAM. Mt. Vernon, Ind. CHAPTER I. Preliminary En'knts of i86i — How tiik News of the Firing on Fort Sumter Aroused the Loyal Peo- ple — Enthusiastic Response to the Call of Gov. Morton — Companip:s and Regiments in Southern Indiana — The 58T11 Indiana R]<:<;iment in Camp Gibson. N no part of the country did the fall of Fort Sumter kin- dle in the hearts of the people a greater degree of patri- otic ardor than was manifested in the First Congressional District of Indiana, a section of the country known as the "Pocket." The people of this section were largely de- scendants of a long line of hunters, tVontiersmen, early set- tlers, soldiers, Indian fighters and adventurers. They were full by nature of a spirit of patriotism, excitement and adventure, and having been taught from early infanc}' to resent every affront, and especially, ever\ insult to the Na- tional flag and the National Union, it was not unnatural that they should be aroused by the shock that electrified the Nation when the news flasiied across the country that the old flag had been fired upon. In no part of the Union was there manifested a greater indignation at the insult — nowhere was there shown a more eager determination to resent the dishonor that had been placed upon our National banner. They sprang to arms at their country's call like the High- landers of Scotland, among whom wen- found many of their ancestors, when summoned by the "blue banner and bloody cross." 22 CHAI'LAIN HKiHTS HISTORY OF THK One can never forget the excitement and enthusiasm of those days of 1861. On the impulse of the moment men offered themselves in almost countless numbers. Many of the men who were first to offer their services as volunteers were not received by the authorities, for tlie mapnitude of the impending struggle against the rebellion was not then fully understood by the Government. Among those who were more fully cognizant of the seriousness of the work that was before us and the necessity of gi'appling with the rebellious power that had been raised against the Govern^ ment with a strong force and with earnestness, was Governor O. P. Morton, of Indiana. On the morning of the 15th of April, 1 86 1, immediately after the news of the tiring upon Sumter had been received, the Governor sent the following message to President Lincoln : To Abraham Lincoln, President of the United States: On behalf of the State of Indiana, I tender to you, for the defense of tlie Nation, and to uphold the autJiority of the Government, ten thousand men. (Si,^med) O. P. MORTON. Governor of Itidiana. > The same da}' the President issued his proclamation call- ing for seventy-iive thousand volunteers from the several States in the Union, for the suppression of the rebellion. Under this call Indiana's quota was only si.x Regiments of infantr}^ comprising in officers and men less than 5,000, who were to serve for a period of three months, unless sooner discharged. On the i6th of April, Governor Morton issued a proclamation, briefly reciting the acts of the rebellion which was threatening the destruction of the Union, and calling upon the loyal men of Indiana to organize them- selves into military Companies sufficient to make six Regi- ments for muster into service of the United States. The response to this call was a manifestation of patriotism that was phenomenal, and left no doubt in the mind of any as to the earnestness and devotion of Indiana to the cause of the Union. In less than a week more than 12,000 men had tendered their services to Governor Morton. As this was nearly three times as many as Indiana's quota required, the FIFTY-KKtHTH INDIANA REGIMENT. 23 contest between Companies to secure acceptance became quite spirited. In many cases the}^ went to Indianapolis without orders and Company officers made a personal en- treat}' of the Governor for muster into the United States service. But the Governor had to decline all enlistinents beyond the number called for. Finding it impossible, how- ever, to restrain the tide of volunteering within the limits of the three months' call, and being impressed with the neces- sity and importance of immediately placing an overwhelm- ing force in active service, he tendered the Secretary of War six additional Regiments, withovit conditions as to the term of service, with the assur- ance that they would be ready in six days if accepted. Communi- cation with Washington was cut oft' and there was some delay in getting a response to this ofter. But in the meantime the Gov- ernor determined to put the six additional Regiments in camp and under discipline at once, and to hold them subject to the demand of the Government. This determination of the Gov- ernor to anticipate a second call of the President for volunteers was received with jnuch satisfaction by the thousands of loyal and patriotic young men who had tendered their services and had failed to get in under the quota of the first call. Moreover, this action of the Governor had a good eflect in allaying the fear and feeling of danger that was entertained by the people living in the counties bordering on the Ohio River, on account of the threatened invasion of rebel bands from Kentucky. Public confidence was further encouraged by prompt measures set on foot b}- the Governor to procure arms and equipments for the state troops and by the organi- zation in manv counties of Home Guards, who were armed PRESIDKNT LINCOLN. 24 CHAPLAIN HIUHT'S HISTORY OF THK tor the time being with the old-fashioned squirrel rifles and such other weapons as could be gathered up in the neigh- borhood. In a large number of cases the Home Guards were not armed with anything in the shape of a weajion more deadh^ nor dangerous than a broom stick. But the results obtained by their organization and drill were none the less advantageous, notwithstanding their meagre and ineffective equipments. The drill in compan}- evolutions and in the manual of arms by these Home Guards proved to be highly beneticial to them in a few months when an op- portunity was afforded members of these organizations to enlist in the United States service, an opportunity of which many availed themselves. Thus it was that Southern In- diana, especially, was so earh^ organized for military service and was enabled to respond so promptly with well drilled Companies as the}^ were called for trom time to time for service as soldiers in the army of the Union. The Governor had called an extra session of the Legis- lature to meet April 24th. In his special message to that body assembled he reviewed the history of the secession movement, and set forth the part already performed by the State in compliance with the President's call. He then said : "In view of all the facts it becomes the imperative duty of Indiana to make suitable preparations for the contest bv providing ample supplies of men and money to insure the protection of the State and the general government in the prosecution of the war to a speedy and successful termination. I, there- fore, recommend that one million dollars be appropriated for the purchase of arms and munitions of war, and for the organization of such portion of the militia as may be deemed necessary for the emergency; that a militia system be devised and enacted, looking chiefly to volunteers, which shall insure the greatest protection to the State and unitv and efficiency of the force to be emplo3'ed. That a law be enacted defining and punishing treason against the State. * * * * That suitable provision be made by the issue of bonds, or otherwise, for raising the money herein recommended to be appro- priated; and that all necessary and proper legislation be had to protect the business, property and citizens of the State under the circumstances in which they are placed." The legislature promptly and with great unanimity en- acted laws in liarmony with the recommendation made by FIFTY-EIGHTH INDIANA REtJIMENT. 25 Governor Morton, and the State was placed on a military footing, with proper and efficient militia laws, a condition ot affairs in which Indiana had been sadly deficient prior to this time. Under the first call several Companies were raised in Southern Indiana, but none were accepted. Among these was a company raised in Princeton and vicinity by Captain J. G. Vail. This Company- was filled within a tew days at'ter the firing on Fort Sumter and was the first enlistment in Gibson covmty of volunteers for the United States service. It was mustered into the three years' service under a later call, for it was soon discovered that the rebellion was of orreater magnitude than was commonly believed at the be- ginning of hostilities. The President's second call for 300,- 000 volunteers to serve for three years or during the war, was the official confirmation of the worst fears of man}- who had from the first regarded the condition of affiiirs with the greatest apprehensions. The flippant talk of making a breakfast spell of suppressing the rebellion was not indulged in after the battle of Bull Run and President Lincoln's call for three years service. These two events had the effect to arouse the patriotic people of the countr}^ to the fact that the war on hand was one of serious and terrible earnestness. While the opportunities afforded for enlistment under the second call was greatly enlarged the seriousness of this step was also more apparent. But still this did not discourage the ardor of the young men whose patriotic indignation had been aroused by the dishonor placed upon their country's flag. The volunteering went on and from all walks and conditions of life the youth and flower of the land came forward to offer themselves in defense of the Union. Com- panies and Regiments were formed in various parts of In- diana and after a few days drilling they were sent to the front to join other troops that were in active service. During the first six months of the contest there were four full Regiments organized in the first congressional district, besides a number of Companies and fragments of Companies 26 CHAPLATX RIGHT'S HISTORl OF THE attached to various other Regiments organized in other parts of the State. These regiments were the 24th, by Col. Alvin P. Hovey, organized at Vincennes, in July ; the 25th, by Col. James C. Veach, at Evansville ; the First Cavalry, by Col. Baker, at the same time and place ; the 42d, by Col. Jones, also organized at Evansville in the month of Sep- tember. It was in the latter part of September, 186 1, that a petition was sent to Governor Morton by some of the citizens of Princeton, asking permission to raise another Regiment from the First District and requesting that it be organized at Princeton. This request was promptlv granted and the number assigned to the Regiment to be organized was tiie 58th Indiana. Dr. Andrew Lewis, one of the most enter- prising and most patriotic citizens of Princeton, and one who had a ver^^ extensive acquaintance in the surrounding- counties, was largely instrumental in ol:)taining the consent of Governor Morton tor the organization of this Regiment at this place. At the request of the Governor, Dr. Lewis accepted the position of Colonel of the Regiment. H. M. Carr, of Crawfordsville, who had served in the nth Indiana as Captain, during the three months' service, and had re-enlisted in the three years' ser\nce in that Regiment, was commissioned Lieutenant-Colonel. After the organization was complete Dr. Lewis resigned, on account of not being able to arrange his private business so that he could go with the Regiment to the field, and Lieutenant-Colonel Carr was promoted to the Colonelcy. The roster of tield officers was completed by the appointment of George P. Buell, of Law- renceburg, Lieutenant-Colonel ; James T. Embree, of Princeton, Major. The following staff' officers were appointed : J. Lee Yaryan, of Richmond, Adjutant ; Samuel Sterne, of Princeton, Qiiartermaster ; Dr. W. W. Blair, of Princeton, Surgeon; Dr. J. R. Adams, of Petersburg, Assistant Surgeon ; Joseph Grant, of Utica, Sergeant-Major ; Henry Torrence, Xenia, Ohio, Qiiartermaster Sergeant ; John G. Beiim, Princeton, Commissarv Sergeant; James DR. ANDREW LEWIS. For Biographical Sketch see page 567. FIFTY-EIGHTH INDIANA REGIMENT. 27 Hadlock, Hospital Steward. The appointment of Chaplain was not made for several months alter the Regiment was orp-anized. The rendezvous of the Regiment was in tiie Gibson count}^ fair grounds and was known as Camp Gibson . The following are the Company organizations : Compan}'- A was recruited from Gibson and Pike counties, largely, and had first gone into camp at Evansville with the expectation of becoming a part of the ^id Indiana, which was then forming at that place. Finding that Regiment full, the Company was ordered to Princt^ton and thus became the first Company of the 58th Indiana, and one ot the first to enter Camp Gibson. The Company was officered as follows: Captain Thomas G. Brown, of Gentry ville ; First Lieutenant William Davis, Francisco ; Second Lieu- tenant John Moke, Princeton. Company B was almost all from Gibson county. In its original organization this was, perhaps, the most exclusivel}' Gibson county Company that was in the service. It went into Camp Gibson October 21, 1861, with its full maximum strength, and of this number ninet3'-seven were enlisted in Gibson county. Many in this Company had, previous to enlistment, been members of Home Guard Companies, and had acquired quite a good deal of knowledge of military tactics. The consequence was that the Company soon became very proficient in drill and it easily maintained this distinction throughout the service. The officers of Company B were Captain Joseph Moore, Francisco ; First Lieutenant Simon D. Ewing, Francisco ; Second Lieutenant Bedford Reavis, Princeton. Company C was also recruited in Gibson county ver}- largely, though there were a good many from Pike and Dubois counties. It was among the first Companies in Camp Gibson, having enlisted in the early part of October, 1 86 1. The officers were Captain William A. Downey, Patoka ; First Lieutenant Ephraim E. Woods, Patoka ; Second Lieutenant Joseph D. Fisher, Patoka. Company D only had a total of eighty-five when the Regi- 28 CHAPLAIN HKtHT'S HISTORY OF THE ment left for the field, and these were about equally enlisted from Gibson and Pike counties. The officers were Captain Marston G. Hargrove, Oakland City ; First Lieutenant James C. Knox, Ladoga ; Second Lieutenant George Whit- man, Oakland City. Company E was mostly from Dubois, Pike and Martin counties, with several from Daviess, Vanderburg and Knox. As it appears on the roster of the Regiment, E Company is the onl}' one in the 58th that shows no enlistment from Gib- son county. It was a splendid Compan}' just the same and was well officered when it entered camp and became a part of the 58th. The Captain was Daniel J. Banta, Jasper; First Lieutenant Asbur}^ H. Alexander, Jasper; Second Lieutenant Jacob E. Voorhees, Terre Haute. Company F was mostl}^ from Spencer county, although Gibson furnished a goodly number of the original enlist- ments of that Company. The officers were Captain Joseph H. Crow, Gentry ville ; First Lieutenant William Overlin, Eureka; Second Lieutenant Daniel L. Cain, Rockport. Company G was very much like Company B in one respect, that is, that it was nearly all made up from one county. G Company was distinctively^ a Pike county or- ganization and it came into camp with the maximum strength. It was the oldest Company in the Regiment, having enlisted in the latter part of August with the expec- tation of becoming a part of another Regimental organiza- tion. ]>ut they were disappointed in this and, after being shifted about from one camp to another, they were finally ordered to Camp Gibson. The officers were Captain Wil- liam H. Donahey, Petersburg; First Lieutenant Samuel H. Spillman ; Second Lieutenant George Labaree, Petersburg. Company H was a Daviess county Company, It was not full when the Regiment left for the front, but afterwards received some recruits and became an efficient company, ready for every duty. The officers were Captain James Dale, Washington ; First Lieutenant Green McDonald, Washing- ton ; Second Lieutenant John S. Canfield, Washington. FIFTY-EIGHTH INDIANA REGIMENT. 29 Company I was another of the companies that was almost wholly made up in Pike county. Its officers were Captain Jackson M. Kinman, Petersburg; First Lieutenant Wm. E. Chappel, Petersburg ; Second Lieutenant Lemuel R. Har- grove, Petersburg. Compan\- K was only partly organized when the Regi- ment left Camp Gibson. The organization was afterwards completed by the addition of some new recruits and b}^ an equalization of some of the larger companies, transferring the surplus men in each to Company K. The officers of this company were Captain Walter B. Carr, Crawfordsville ; First Lieutenant Charles H. Bruce, Ladoga; Second Lieu- tenant James M. Smith, Ladoga. In this connection the followinsf statement will be of in- terest. It shows the number of officers and men in the Regiment and the county from which the}- enlisted at the time of its departure from Camp Gibson : ORIGINAL ENLISTMENT. Gibson 3 0! I II 3 17 38 20 3 99 2 79 n 3 n n 1 D c cr 'r. 5 2 r>' 12 I I 6 2 a 3' 3 X < < P 3 Q. rt ■-1 at! I I p* 3 fD E 1-3 p_ Field and StaC. Company A Company B Company C Company D_. .. Company E Company F Company G Company H Company I Company K__ _ 6 73 97 66 42 24 3 5 2 29 I 73 II 42 I 13 4 7 I 2 7 4 2 4 I I 5 5 2 I 4 23 n 103 105 104 85 88 lOI 105 1 39 Total... 347 273 74 c 4 58 20 17 10 13 891 By the loth of November the Companies had all taken up their abode in camp and the men had become more or less familiar with camp duties. Temporary barracks had been :j() CHAl'LAIN IIIUIITS HISTORY OF TIIK constructed b}- utilizing the exhibition sheds and cattle and horse stalls on the fair ground, making quite comfortable quarters for the boys who were learning the art of soldier- ing. Still, this mode of life was a great change from that to which many of the new soldiers had been accustomed and the effect of the change soon began to show in the increased number requiring medical treatment. The camp hospital was soon tilled with the sick, many of them suffering witli the measles. There was one death in camp, and there was just enough of a glimpse of the solemn realities of a soldier's life in the field to cause those who were capable of such a tiling to think seriously of the business before them. But such things did not disturb many, none, in fact, to such an extent that they desired to back out of their agreement to serve for "three years or during the war." So it was when the mustering officer came, on the 12th of Nova^mber, there was found no one in camp with an inclination to step out of the ranks. There was rather a disposition to make the best presentation possible and to evade such questions of the mustering officer as might cause their rejection. The Regiment remained in Camp Gibson about six weeks. The time being industriously employed in company and "squad drills" much to the dislike of many of the boys, when the novelty of the thing wore ofT. P>ut. \vhik> this daily drill was tiresome and monotonous to the privates, it was very pleasing to the newly fledged corporals, ser- geants and company oflicers, as it afforded them an oppor- tunity to exercise thtnr authority in training the raw rcxruit. After the companies had been sufficiently drilled so that the men could "stand up in two rows and march out end- ways," a regimental dress parade was attempted. Joe Grant, who had seen service, and had an ambition to see more, made himself quite efficient as the acting adjutant of the Regiment on such occasions. Joe was very conspicuous among the undisciplined officers and men in those early days of the R(>giment. On dress parade he iiad the admiration of all the ladies and was the object of envv of all the new officers FIFTY-EIGHTH INDIANA RKGIMKNT. 31 who had not yet caught on to the tactics. After a few weeks Colonel Carr came to camp, and he had such a fine manly presence and was possessed of svich a strong com- manding voice that he at once obtained the favor and re- spect of the members of the Regiment. He was a well drilled officer himself and on takincr command of the Recri- ment he instituted a more thorough discipline in camp duties. He organized a special school of instruction for the line officers and it was not long until the effect of it was shown in compan}^ drill. A regimental band had been organized by this time and with their services dress parade became quite an attraction to the people of town and country who were daily visitors to camp, bringing with them, usually, man}^ delicacies not found on the soldiers' bill of fare. These were gala days for the boys, but the}^ were not to last. Indeed, the boys did not want them to last. They had en- listed to put down the rebellion, they said, and they wanted to get to the front where they could be about their business. They had plenty to eat, good warm clothes, comfortable quarters, an opportunity to see their friends often, but there was one longing desire that was not satisfied while enjoying these luxuries in Camp Gibson. The thing that the}- wanted to hear, and as time wore along became more impatient about, was marching orders. But the long delayed orders came at last. On Wednesday night, December ii, just before time for turning into bunks, the order came for the Regiment to prepare three days' rations and be ready to move to Louisville the following Friday. On the reception of this news there went up such a shout from that camp as had never before been heard in these parts. Everybody was de- lighted although every one could but know that the contem- plated move was but the beginning of days of trial, privation and sutTering, and to man}' the end would be death. But war is a serious business and these men had counted the cost before enlisting. That night, and the day and night following there was hur- rying to and fro and everything was bustle and confusion in 32 CHAPLAIN HIGHT^S HISTORY. camp. Strict orders had been given as to furloughs and the guards were doubled to prevent soldiers from jumping the fence and taking "French leave" on the night before de- parture. It was of no avail, however, as the soldiers went over the fence like a drove of sheep. Not content with this in many places the};- tore down whole sections of fence ; they captured the guard and burned the guard house, and in fact took possession of the camp for the time being. They were going to leave and proposed to celebrate the event in their own way. Next morning the sober second thought came to some who had been specially hilarious the night before, and the}' were affected in a different way. When wives, mothers, fathers, sisters, and sweethearts came into camp to witness their departure and bid them good bye, when the actual parting came, then there was an end to rioting and rowdy- ism. Then it seemed to dawn upon many for the first time that this going away was an affair that called for sober thought rather than for jovous hilaritv and reckless dissipa- tion. On Frida}^ morning, December 13, the Regiment was drawn up in line all accoutered and equipped readv to move. As the Regiment stood in line waiting for orders to march. Rev. John McMaster and Rev. J. E. Jenkins, representing the Gibson County Bible Society, passed down the line witli baskets filled with small pocket testaments and presented each member of the Regiment with a copy. This incident made a deep impression upon all and the testaments were highly prized by the recipients. The Regiment moved out of camp to the railroad depot and after a long wait there the train that was to carry us to Evansville finall}' came and we got aboard. There was a large crowd of people present to see us off, and amid the cheers and tears and lamentations of the multi- tude of waiting friends, with the waving of handkerchiefs and flags, and other demonstrations the train pulled out. CHAPTER II. On the Way to the Front — First Experience in Camp — Ox THE March to Bardstown — Brigade Organ- ization — Flag Presentation — Through Ken- tucky — Tennessee — At Nashville. ARRIVING at Evansville, the Regiment landed on the commons outside of the city and marched down Main street to the river. There we embarked on the steamer Baltic^ and after a few hours were on our way up the Ohio river, destined for Louisville. The Baltic was a very large boat and was provided with luxurious accommodations, but these were not available, or were insufficient for that emergency. The men had to sleep on the cabin floor or out on deck as best they could, all the comfortable sleeping space being overcrowded. But the boat ride was a novel experience to many, and they enjoyed it, notwithstanding the discomforts. Sometime during Saturday night the boat landed at Portland, below Louis- ville, and early on Sunday morning the Regiment began to disembark. It was nearly noon when everything was in readiness and the Regiment started on its first march. It was about four miles at that time from the place of landing to Louisville, proper, and the Regiment was required to march that distance and thence about two miles to a commons south of the city to a camping place. Here we drew tents, of the bell pattern, and spent our first night trying to sleep on the cold ground inside of a tent. Here also we had our first experience with the army "hard tack." While r{4 CHAPLAIN JIKIHT'S HISTORY OF THE here the equipments of the Regiment were completed and on- the 19th of December we started on our hrst march to Bards- town, Ky., a distance of about forty miles. There was a good turnpike all the way which was not so good for tender feet. Most of the boys were shod in store boots with thin soles, and there was a general complaint of blistered feet after the first day's march. The broad, thick soled shoe supplied by their Uncle Sam was much in favor with the boys after their experience on that fort}^ mile march. We arrived at Bardstown, December 21st, tired, weary and footsore, and not very much enraptured with arm}- life, so far as we had seen it. But this was but the beginning of our sorrows. Marching through town to the most uninvit- ing spot that could be found a few miles beyond, the Regi- ment went into camp on a hillside in a cedar forest. An- other kind of tent was issued to us here. It was called the Sibley tent. We had never seen anything like it, and had no idea how to put one of them up. It was a puzzle to master a Sibley tent to any one who had not travelled with a circus. But some genius in the Regiment did iind a solution, and others profited by his discovery, so in time the tents were up and camp established once more. Then it began to rain and continued for several days. All about the camp the soil was converted into nasty mud of various degrees of consistency. By this time there were a few members of the 58th who would have been willing to exchange places with some patriotic citizen who had a good roof over his head and a comfortable bed in which to sleep. It had not occurred to man}^ of them until now that a soldier's life was of this sort. It was about this time that an order was given one night for the RegimcMit to be ready to march early the fol- lowing morning. When reveille was sounded next morning a stalwart private arose and peeped out of his tent. He found it was very dark and still raining. He turned back and remarkcnl to his comrades, "Surely we are not going to break camj-) and march this morning while it is raining this wa}^" lie had lived on a farm and had learned enough FIFTY-EIGHTH INDIANA REGIMENT. 85 during his life to come in out of the rain, hut he found that morning, and in his after experience, that military- tactics had very little regard for the weather. The Regiment marched that morning — December 29th — to another camp- ing ground, about five miles south of Bardstown, on the Bowling Green pike. This was also a muddy place, but it was in an open freld and it was more suitable for a camp. During the month of December the Regiment traveled three hundred and seven miles — twenty-seven by rail, two hundred by steamer and eighty on foot. The object of moving the Regiment to this camp was two- fold, first because it was here afforded a more eligible site for a ]")roperly alligned regimental camp, and second that it might be in proximity to other Regiments with which it was to be brigaded. Hitherto the 58th had not been associated with an}'- other Regiment. Now it was to take a place as part of a little army that was being organized in the vicinity of Bardstown under the command of Brigadier General T. J. Wood. At this new camp there soon arrived the other Regiments with which the 58th was to be brigaded. These were the 24th Kentucky, 40th Indiana and the 57th Indiana. Col. H. M. Carr, of the 58th, was assigned to the command of the Brigade, with General Wood commander of the divis- ion, headquarters in Bardstown. General Wood was a regular army officer and a very strict disciplinarian. He found an opportunit}^ here for the exercise of all his talents in this direction, in the development of these raw recruits into an army of disciplined soldiers. But it was done, although the process was often ver}- distasteful to the raw material from which the disciplined soldier was being developed. It was in this camp that the 58th received their stand of colors which had been procured by some of the patriotic ladies of Gibson county. It was the purpose to have pre- sented the colors before the Regiment left Camp Gibson, but circumstances were such that this could not be done. So, on the 14th day of January, 1862, a committee of three ladies from Gibson county brought the colors to Louisville where H(i THAI'LAIN HUiHT'S HISTOKY OF THE they were met by a delegation from the Regiment. The ladies composing this delegation were Misses Ophelia Hanks, Artemesia Hanks and Mollie Sumners. Miss Ophelia Hanks* made the presentation address and delivered the col- ors to Lieut. -Col. George P. Buell and Major J. T. Embree in the Louisville hotel. Following are the addresses made on that occasion : PRESENTATION ADDRESS BY MISS HANKS, Lieutenant- Colonel: I have the honor of presenting to you, the officers and soldiers of the 58th Regiment of Indiana Vokinteers, this beautiful stand of colors — the free gift of the patriotic ladies of Gibson county, of our beloved state of Indiana. First, is this "Flag of the heart's hope and home, By angel hands to valor given." Inspired by the glorious associations that cluster around this emblem of our united nationality, I doubt not that the officers and soldiers composing your gallant Regiment will nerve themselves for the conflict and bear it in triumph over every battle field. The second is your Regimental banner. Upon its blue field we have inscribed the American luigle, the symbol of American liberty and great- ness. This is a fitting emblem for an Indiana Regi- ment, for in the Indiana soldier is concentrated all that is truly great and heroic, and may we hope that whilst the sight of this beautiful flag may stimulate 30U to deeds of valor, that you will not forget that true greatness is alwaj's associated with mag- nanimity. Therefore, if the fortune of war should place in your hands the common foe, show to him that you are not only "great, but good" — be mag- nanimous, be merciful. Indiana is justly proud of her citizen soldiers. Their names are thus far associated with every hotly contested battle, and the donors of these beautiful colors cherish the hope that when your Regi- ment, under your leadership, shall be called upon to engage in deadly conflict with the enemy, that new lustre will be added to the already bright sheen of Indiana's valor. Colonel, trusting that this unhappy strife tnay soon end in an honorable peace, and that not one star shall be displaced from our national galaxv, and that every stripe may remain unmarred. I bid you fiuewell. and may Heaven's choicest blessing attend you. * Now Mrs. James S. Mowry, Princeton, Ind. She is the only one of this committee living at the time this is published. MRS. Ol'llIiLlA ll.\XKS MOWRV. FIFTY-EItiHTH INDIANA REGIMENT. ;57 RESPONSE BY LIEUT.-COL. BUELL. Ladies of »iy Native State: In company with Major Embree, I stand here as the representative of Col. Carr and the sSth Indiana Regiment. Though I do not feel capable of occupving the position. I feel complimented and am happy to be the recip- ient of those colors in person. The demonstration of the ladies of Gibson county is truly most gratifying and encouraging to every member of our Regiment. As a token of vour true patriotism and high regard for the cause in which vour fathers and brothers have enlisted, you have presented us with the banners under which we a»e to march. Ladies, we will take these tiags, and whilst we thank you from our inmost hearts, we will bear them most nobly; as we enter upon the battle field beneath them we shall call God to witness that our motto shall be one thousand deaths rather than defeat. We do not say this boastingly — we feel it; our hearts and souls are enveloped in flames of passionate love and pride for this sacred ensign. There is within man a hidden passion, which, when aroused, he knows no conquerer; there is a period in the career of nations when their patriots are all brave. With us that passion is aroused — with Indiana that time has come; fifty thousand of her sons are already in the field. Indiana needs no encomiums! let others behold and judge for themselves. My friends, these colors may meet the reverse of fortune — they mav fall; if so. our hope and prayers shall be that we fall with them. We are a Regi- ment of brothers, defending a mother's cause; there is not one of us can look at this emblem of his country for a moment but his e>'es will kindle and his heart will throb with the noblest emotion of man. Think of it and then ask, "shall we carry them safely through?" Ah. thou stainless shroud of Wash- ington forsaken.? And that by Indianians.' Never! Never! I can assure you we can appreciate the feelings that has prompted you to show this last act of kindness to many of us. We have all left behind us our happy homes. By yielding to their country's call, our mothers, wives and sisters have already cast an eternal gloom over their domestic firesides. Before me are sisters who would weep days and weeks over the death bed or grave of a dear friend, but who have this day, without a summons or tear, marched forward, bearing in the right hand their country's baimer and leading with the left a father or brother to the sacrifice. Is not this love of country.? Is not this deep, undying patriotism.? History may relate deeds of valor, nations may boast of their oft'spring, but none now can be more proud than Indiana shall be of her daughters, and Indianians of their sisters. Sisters, we bid you adieu. We are brothers and soldiers; our lot is perilous. Throughout the hills and vales' of Kentucky many of us may soon rest beneath the sod, and when such shall be our fate, the boon we shall ask will be one tear for the soldier, one sigh for the brother. Once more, in behalf of the 5Sth Regiment, expressive of the heartfelt feelings of each and every member. I thank vou most sincerely. Farewell. Hii CHAPLAIN HKIHT'S HISTORY OF THE The ladies afterward accompanied the delegation to the regimental camp at Bardstown, where the colors were for- mally presented to the Regiment at dress parade. Among th^ ladies who accompanied the committee from Princeton was Miss Irene Kirkman, who sang "The Star Spangled Banner" and other patriotic songs on that occasion. Miss Kirkman 's singing and the presence of these ladies brought new life and patriotic ardor to the soldiers camped upon that'bleak, cold field. Their visit was a bricfht event in our cheerless army lifp. In the latter part of Januarv the Brigade MK^. iKKNK KIRKMAN g^^j.^g^ ou SL march" towards Lebanon, of Princeton, I nd. wliitlier General Wood, the Division commander, had already moved his headquarters. It was the intention to concentrate the army under command of General George H. Thomas, then near Mill Springs, confronted by a large rebel force under General ZollicolTer. But the rebel general concluded not to wait for this concen- tration. He attacked the Union force in great fury, expect- ing to rout them before reinforcements could arrive. But his plan miscarried. His own army was routed, and he himself was killed. When the 58th reached Lebanon the news of the Union victory at Mill Springs made it unneces- sary for them to move any further in that direction. The body of General Zollicofler in an ambulance passed by the 58th camp, soon after our arrix-al in Lebanon. The remains were being taken to the dead general's late home in Nashville for interment. The Regiment remained in the vicinity of Lebanon for several weeks. The hard marching and exposure to the in- clement weather began to tell on the boys. The hos- pitals were filled with sick', and many deaths occurred. About the middle of February marching orders were again received. The objective point now was Bowling Green, then a rebel stronghold, under command of General Buckner. FIFTY-EIGHTH INDIANA REUIMENT. 39 The march from Lebanon to Mumfordsville was by rail. The Regiment was loaded in box cars like cattle, onl}^ each car was made to contain more men than is the usual capacit}- for cattle. It was not the most comfortable condition of things that the soldiers enjoyed in that night ride from Leb- anon to Green River, but it was better than "hoofing it." At Mumfordsville the Reo-iment halted while the rest of the Brigade came up. At this place the 58th was paid off, receiving pay for the first three months' service. A large part of the money received here was gold and silver and it was the last mone}'' of that kind we saw during the service. But the new "greenbacks" were a very acceptable substitute. We waited here for a few days while the rest of the army, then under command of General D. C. Buell, was concen- trating. While halting here the battle of Fort Donelson was fought, resulting in a great victory for the Union forces under General Grant. Immediately after this the rebels evacuated Bowling Green, retreating through Nashville towards the Tennessee river. This left the country clear in front of General Buell's army and he pressed forward after the retreating rebels. The 58th moved forward with the rest of the army through Bowling Green on toward Nashville, making some very hard marches bv the wa}^ One of the most severe, and as it proved the most unnecessary march, that the Regiment made during all its service, was on the day preceding their arrival at Edgefield Junction, near Nashville. It was about noon of that day that the Brigade Commander received an order from General Wood to camp at Edgefield Junction, ten miles from Nashville. As usual with militar}^ orders it was enclosed in a large envelope, directed to the Brigade Commander. On the back of the envelope, for the guid- ance of the orderly who carried the orders, was written "make five miles an hour." As the orderly was mounted this would not be a very extraordinary speed. But the Commander of the Brigade construed the direction to apply to his men who were afoot, which would make a pretty 4-0 CHAl'LALN IUCtHT'S HISTUKV OF THE livel}- gait, especially for men who were already foot sore and weary from their long march. But the Colonel was disposed to obey orders as he understood them, and his understanding was that the Regiment under his command was to move towards the designated camping ground, which was lifteen miles away, at the rate of live miles an hour, and so the order was giyen for a forced march for that distance. The order was executed with very indifferent success. For a short time the belief that there was some serious emergency ahead inspired the men to strain every nerve to reach the emergency' on time. But after a few miles of exertion physical strength and enthusiasm were about exhausted. In spite of strict orders the men were dropping out of the ranks by the score and falling by the roadside utterly worn out. After a while the Colonel was convinced of the physical impossibility of carrying out his construction of the order, and he was compelled to adopt a more moderate gait. A part of the Brigade reached the camp in proper shape and in ample time ; the larger part came in by details during- the next twenty-four hours. When the foolish blunder of the Commander was fully un- derstood there were some deep dyed imprecations bestowed upon him b}' officers and men. This was a ver}^ beautiful camping place, situated in a fine forest covered with blue grass. There was a disposition to forgive and forget some of the privations and inconveniences of the past, in view of the present surroundings. At this place the regimental band left. They iiad followed the Regiment, or rather had gone in front of it, from Camp Gibson, but there had been some uncertainty on the part of the government as to whether bands were really needed in the army. At any rate they had not yet received any official standing, and there was nothing for the bands to do but to return home. On tlie 13th of March the Regiment marched again to- ward Nashville. They found that many other Regiments had preceded them, the rebels having evacuated the place with- FIFTY-EIUHTH INDIANA REtilMENT. 41 out any attempt at defense. The rebels had destroyed the fine suspension bridt^e across the Cumberland river before leaving, which seemed a very foolish and wanton destruction of their own property. It could not hinder the advancement ol the Union army to an}- great extent, as the stream was nar- row and a temporary bridge was easily constructed. The 58th Regiment, and the Brigade of which it was a part, marched through the city and went into camp on the Nolensville pike about two miles south of the city, where they remained for about two weeks. While here some changes were made in the Brigade organization. The 58th Indiana and the 15th Indiana exchanged places, which placed the 58th in a Brigade composed of the 26th Ohio, 13th Michigan, 17th Indiana and the 8th Indiana Battery. A few days afterward the 3d Kentucky was substituted for the 13th Michigan. The Brigade thus constituted was designated as the 15th Brigade, and was commanded by Colonel Hascall, of the 17th Indi- ana. The Division to which it belonged was known as the 6th Division, commanded by Brigadier General T. J. Wood. Rev. John J. Hight, the recently appointed Chaplain, joined the Regiment at this camp. The story of our Regi- mental affairs will be suspended at this point while the new Chaplain relates a little of his personal experience and explains how he became connected with the Regiment. CHAPTER III. Personal Experiences — How a Local Methodist Preacher Became an Army Chaplain — Difficul- ties AND Discouragements in Getting Started — Observations by the Way — Arrival at Nashville — At the Regimentai> Camp — A Cold and Cheer- less Reception — An Unfavorable Impression of Camp Diet and Arrangements for Sleeping. IT might be interesting to the readers to know how I came to tind a place as Chaplain in the army. Whether the reader is interested or not, the process of my evolution from an itinerant Methodist preacher to an army Chaplain is an in- teresting event in my history, and I will ask the indulgence of such readers as may not be interested while I relate it briefl}^. From my earliest recollection I had cherished a desire to see more of the country than comes within the range of vision of an ordinary itinerant preacher, but the proverbial poverty that pertains to my class was always an obstacle in the way of my ambition. When the war broke out and volunteers were wanted to put down the rebellion it seemed to me my opportunity had come. Here was a chance to travel at the expense of the government and at the same time perform the duty of a patriot. I was at once filled with a desire to go and do my part as my forefathers had done in their day. l>ut it did not seem consistent for a preacher to enter the fighting department of the arm}-. The weapons of our warfare are not carnal, vou know. Besides, I was not a very combative man by nature, but was rather FTP'TY-EIUHTH INDIANA REGIMENT. 43 inclined to timidit}' of disposition. But when it was an- novinced that the volunteer Regiments were to have Chap- lains it occurred to me that this would be more in the line of my disposition and in harmon}' with my profession. And when the suggestion was made to me b}- some of my friends that I ought to seek a position as arm}^ Chaplain I fullv made up my mind to do so. When Thomas Johnson was recruiting a Company for what was afterward the 24th In- diana, I told him that T would be glad to go with them as Chaplain. He seemed to be heartily in favor of the idea, so I was not at all surprised to hear from him by a telegram a few days after reaching the rendezvous of the Regiment at \ incennes. He wired, "It is all right, come on." This was on Saturday, and I very foolishly took the lirst train for Vincennes. But when I arrived at the camp I was surprised to find a number of other applicants for the place. I found that there were a number of preachers who were as patriotic as myself, so I gave it up. I went into the city and preached on Sabbath for my Meth- odist Brother, Stallard. On Mon- day I returned home with regrets that I had ever started on the trip. A short time after this my friend. Dr. Pennington, urged me to write to Colonel Baker, with whom I was acquainted, and who was or- ganizing the First Indiana Cavalry at Evansville. I did so but never received any reply. I have always passed Colonel Baker since as though I was not acquainted with him. Have said I would not vote for him if he is ever a candidate for office, but may reconsider that. During the remainder of the summer of 1861 I made no further effort to go to war, feeling very much discouraged in my efforts thus far. About the ist of October I left Prince- ton and took charge of Simpson Chapel, Greencastle. Soon after this the 58th was organized. Colonel Andrew Lewis, MRS. JOHN J. IIIGHT. 4.J- CHAl'LALN HK^HTS HISTORY OK THE the Commander of the Regiment, urged me to put in appli- cation for Chaplaincy of this Regiment, which I did. Here the matter ended so far as I was concerned. I heard a short time after this that the Regiment had gone to the front and hearing nothing more about my application I presumed that they were either supplied with a Chaplain or else did not desire one. The matter had almost passed from my mind until one day in the following March I was surprised to re- ceive a letter, postmarked Bowling Green, K3^, containing a brief announcement of m}^ election as Chaplain of the 58th Indiana. The appointment, signed bv Lieut. -Colonel George P. Buell, commanding the Regiment, was enclosed. This was ver}^ gratifying so far as it went, but I was now so situated that I could not so readily get the consent of m}^ mind to accept the appointment. This was just after the fall of Fort Donelson and it was the expectation of many that the war would soon be over. I was influenced b^' this opin- ion and questioned whether the war would last long enough to justify me in going. We all had better information on this point later on. However, after much debating I made up mv mind to ac- cept the appointment. I decided I would go to the army even if it was for a short time. I resolved to break oft' mv pleasant associations at Greencastle and see what I could do for the spiritual welfare of the soldiers. Immediately I be- gan preparations to join my Regiment. I went to New Albany, March i6th, where I ordered a Chaplain's uniform and purchased other necessary equipments. I labored undiM- the impression that it was very important that mv arrival at the seat of war should not be di'layed and so I emploved two tailors to make my suit. I purchased a big valise and tilled it full of clothing, besides had several good sized bundles of blankets, etc. It was the custom of officers to be thus provided at that time, but the custom changed some- what when the arm}^ got down to business. Finallv, mv preparations were completed and dressed in my militarv suit T crossed over to Louisville. I tramped around that citv for FIFTY-EIGHTH INDIANA REGIMENT. 45 some time seeking transportation and information of various kinds. After much labor I procured the former but found a very limited supply of the latter. At the time I ascribed this to the surliness of the officials, but I have since dis- covered that they did not know anything and simply masked their ignorance under the cover of ill-manners. By this time the 58th had gone with the rest of the army from Bowling Green to Nashville. The railroad was not yet opened so I took passage on a boat for Nashville. My trip vs^as without much incident worthy of note. I did not make the acquaintance of many of the passengers. I remember a Lieut. -Colonel Wheat, a big man of some Kentucky Regi- ment. Even at that early period of the war he was dissatisfied because he was not promoted to a Colonel. I never heard of him afterward, and presume he did all his lighting early in the struggle. I remember also that Colonel Whittaker was one of our passengers. He was a famous Kentuckian and a fighter. He soon became a Brigadier and got his name in the newspapers. At Fort Donelson we were permitted to land and view the scene of the recent battle. This was about a month after the battle and the evidences of the conflict were plainly visible. It was m}' first sight of a real battle field and it made a deep impression. It was Sunday morning, March 23, when we came in sight of Nashville. The boat landed at the foot of Broad- way. On inquiry I learned that my Regiment was camped about three miles south of the cit}^ and I engaged a carriage to take me out. Arriving at the picket post I learned that I was minus one essential thing — a pass. I explained as best I could and the officer, seeing my greenness and that my intentions were good, permitted me to pass. Soon I was at the gate of the woods pasture in which the 58th was encamped. In a few minutes I was with the Regiment with whose fortunes I was destined to be associated for some time. It was a cold raw March day and the surroundings were to me everything else but cheerful. It was a new experience 46 CHAPLAIN HKtHT'S HISTOKY OF THE and I felt the embarrasment of the situation greatly. As I entered the camp the tirst man to meet me and extend the hand of greeting was Lieutenant Wm. Davis. He was fol- lowed by several old acquaintances. Some, however, while they seemed glad to see me, yet had a distrust of my abilit}^ to till the place of Chaplain. I could not blame them, since I was filled with the same distrust of m^-selt. Colonel H. M. Carr, who was then in command of the Regiment, greeted me in a cordial sort of. way, but it was plain that, in the person of the new Chaplain, he had a regimental equip- ment that he was at a loss to know what to do with. He said to me afterwards that mv coming rather took him b}" surprise, that he was not expecting me and therefore was unprepared to properly receive me. I think, however, his action was due to a feeling of general distrust of army Chaplains that was then so prevalent in the arm v. This feeling was shared by nearlv all the officers, especialh'. on account of the alleged dereliction of some Chaplains. But I think there was less real cause for it than manv imagined, which opinion I hope to establish before I complete this history. I did not preach on this, the first Sabbath of my presence with the Regiment, but contented mvself in visiting friends in camp and getting mvself settled. Bv the invitation of Major J. T. Embree I spread my cot in his tent. Dr. W. W. Blair very kindly invited me to mess with him for the present, both of which invitations I gladl}'" accepted. The fare was crackers, bacon and coffee. I did not relish this very much but the Doctor told me I "would come down to it," and he was right. My first niglit in camp was not passed in sleep. It was too cold and niv new cot was not the sort of bed I had been accustomed to. I was cold underneath and on each side, notwithstanding the two heavy blankets that were on top. It was a miserable niglit, but it came to an end at last. During the week, with the assist- ance of some friends I procured a tent and fixed up verv comfortable quarters. FIFTY-EKIHTH INDIANA REGIMENT. 47 We had several sick in the hospital at Nashville and in camp. I visited these and extended mv acquaintance by visiting through the Regiment as opportunity offered, and in a few days began to feel more at home. I found many men whom I had met in other days, and received from them assurance of sympathy and co-operation in m^• work for the spiritual interests of the Regiment. And now, as I am here and established as a part of the equipment of the 58th, I may as well drop this narration of my personal experiences and give more attention to the movements and incidents pertaining to the Regiment with which mv lot has been cast. CHAPTER IV. Forward Movement — Ox the Way to Savannah — Some of the Officers in Command — Baggage and Equipments — Through Franklin — Columbia — Some Fine Plantations — Grapevine News — Inci- dents OF the March — Weary and Sick Soldiers — Burial by the Wayside — Sound of Battle — Hur- rying TO the Front — Pittsburg Landing. DURING the latter part of March active preparations were being made for a forward movement. Our men were provided with new clothing and new equipments. The winter was now over and heaw clothing would not be needed, so the soldier relieved himself of this incumbrance by sending his surplus clothing home by express. The hard marching of the previous winter had told severely on the men and at this time there were manv in our Regiment who were unfit for duty. These had to be sent to the general hospital. This was the last we saw of many of them. Some of them were discharged, others died. Among those who answered the last roll call at this place was Lieutenant Wm. Overlin, a bright, promising young officer of Company F. Another was Elias Bigham, private of Company A. These, with the others, who were called to give up their lives before they had mingled in "battle's deadly array," were none the less martyrs to liberty's cause because of their early sacrifice. Many of the brightest and bravest perished before we reached the noontide of our campaign. Early on Saturday morning, March 29th, our tents were struck and thc^ Sixth Division began its forward movement, FIFTY-EIGHTH INDIANA REGIMENT. 49 the five other Divisions of General BuelFs army having preceded us. While the Regiments of our Brigade and Division are slowly forming in column, preparing to move out toward Nashville, we will improve the opportunity to give a few sketches of some of our officers. Mention has already been made of General T. J. Wood, Commander of the Division, and we will have occasion to mention him again. Colonel Milo S. Hascall, of the 17th Indiana, commanding our Brigade, is, in personal appearance, tall and slender, with shoulders slightly inclined to be stooped. His voice is shrill, his eye restless and piercing. He is quick in temper and often hast}^ in speech. But withal he is a talented and thoroughly trained military man. He is a thorough disci- plinarian and a terror to evil doers. He was promoted to Brigadier General a short time after taking command of our Brigade. Colonel E. T. Fyfte, of the 26th Ohio, is a man past the meridian of life but he has a heart as young as any boy in the army. He has seen a good deal of militar}^ service and is a very popular and competent commander. He has a remarkably plain and unostentatious manner and always has a word of encouragement and sympathy for his soldiers. Colonel Thomas E. Bramlette, of the 3d Kentucky, has a tall commanding form and the manner of an accomplished gentleman. He is possessed of a brilliant mind and is among the most prominent and influential of the Union men of Kentucky. This was evidenced by the fact that he was called from the field to serve as governor of his state within a year from this time. Colonel Henry M. Carr, of our own Regiment, in ability and personal appearance, compares favorably with any of the officers. He is a young man of more than ordinary personal attractions. He is warm in his friendship and pleasant and sociable in his demeanor. His form is tall and erect and his voice is strong and clear. But now the bugle is sounding "fall in," and soon the order is given to move forward. The entire Division is 50 CHAPLAIN HIUHT'S HISTORY OF THE moving, the 15th Brigade in tiie rear. We march into Nashville and then out the Franklin pike, moving steadily along until we had made the distance of 13 miles and went into camp. The men were weary enough by this time and were anxious to halt. It was a late hour when all the wagon train reached camp. This train was composed of ammunition supply and headquarter wagons, and thirteen wagons to each Regiment. The Regimental wagons were loaded with two wall tents and five Sibley tents for each Company, making seventv large tents for the ten Companies Then the iield and staff officers, commissioned and non- commissioned, each had a tent. Then there were the hos- pital, commissarv and cook tents. More than this each officer had a cot and some had huge trunks and some had stoves, to say nothing of the mess boxes, tables, chairs and man}^ other articles. The wagons were simplv loaded down with superfluous baggage and camp equipments and this immense train had to move slowly. On the morning of our second day's march we were called early and soon were on the wav. The day was bright and pleasant ; our journev was through a fme agricultural coun- try. It was the Sabbath and we made a distance of 13 miles to-day. The roadsides were lined with negroes in their best attire eagerly watching the "Yankees" pass. The large plantations on either side of the road were uninjured bv the troops that had gone before us, as it was strictlv against orders to molest any private propert}^ We found nearlv all the people, white and black, at home. This was especially the case at Franklin, through which we passed on the morn- ing of the 31st. We went through this town with colors flying, lines dressed, and with a great show of pom]-). We had an idea then that the rebellion was to be put down by this sort of display and by kindly protecting the property and chattels of the rebels. We passed General Thomas' Division at this place and marched 15 miles bevond. Four o'clock Tuesday morning, April ist, found our Division again in motion. We crossed Duck river on a pon- FIFTY-EIGHTH INDIANA REGIMENT. 51 toon bridge and passed on through Cokimbia, a town some- what old and dihipidated. After a ten mile march we camped. During the 14 mile march of the next day we passed through Mt. Pleasant. We also passed over some of the most charming country during these two days that we had yet seen. Perhaps the loveliest spot along the entire route was near the residence of the rebel General Pillow, and that of another rebel, General Polk, just across the pike. In trout of each of these residences is a large and magnifi- cent park. A neat little church is near. Our army care- fully guarded these residences and surroundings, although their owners had left them to fight against our country. The 200 negro slaves of General Polk were not molested. Thev were left to cultivate the fields and raise supplies for the rebel army and the rebel women and children at home. Thus far the rank and file of the army had no definite idea of where we were going. The general supposition was that we would strike the Tennesse river about Florence, unite with Grant and move on south in pursuit of the fleeing rebels. It was the fear of many of us that it would be im- possible to overtake them and get them to stand for an en- gagement, and that the war would end without us being permitted to smell gunpowder. But our fears and theories were both groundless. We were not going to Florence, and the rebels were not fleeing, at least not in the hither- ward direction as we thought. Our mail communications were now severed and we did not have access to newspapers, but let no one imagine that an army is destitute of news because mail communication is cut ofl'. Under such circumstances there is more news than when papers are received daily. We heard very much of that sort of news about this time. It was reported, for in- stance, that a rebel fleet had come up from Memphis and destroyed all our gunboats, and was now moving on Louis- ville and Cincinnati. This report was said to have come directly from headquarters and was sincerely believed by many. Some supposed that we would be compelled to fall 52 CHAPLAIN RIGHT'S HISTORY OF THE back to the Ohio river as our supplies would be cut oft\ This is only a sample of the absurd stories started and cir- culated. They were called "■grapevine dispatches," and LIEUTENANT-COLONEL JOSEPH MOORE* however improbable and absurd they might be tliere was always some one to believe in them. * After leaving the army, Lieutenant-Colonel Moore removed to Mis- souri, where he engaged in mercantile business for several years. Then he returned to Indianapolis and established a claim and pension agency, which he conducted quite successfully for about twenty years. He died at his home in that city, May 7, 1894, aged 65 years, from the eftects of disease contracted in the service. FIFTY-EIUHTH INDIANA REGIMENT. 58 The next da3^ Thursday, April 2, we marched fourteen miles. We were now headed in the direction of Savannah, on the Tennessee river. This much in regard to our destination was now apparent. The day was warm, the roads were dusty, many of the men were pale and weak from the effects of the march. They had not yet become hardened to this service, nor had they yet learned discretion in the matter of their equipments for a march. Some of the loads which the pale, sickl}^ men were tr^dng to carry were enough to kill a horse. Not only were their knapsacks tilled to the fullest capacity with extra clothing, but many of them were lugging along trophies of various kinds, such as rebel bowie knives, canister-shot, and other things. They had the impression that the war would soon be over and they wanted something in the way of a souvenir to take home with them. But the useless equipments of the men was not the only item in the wa}^ of foolish indiscretion that contributed to their weary and fatigued condition. A large part was due to absurdities practiced by the commanding officers in camp and on the march. For instance, reveille would be sounded long before daylight each morning, and the tents would be struck before the proper time. The men were compelled to eat a hurried breakfast and get into line. Then they would have to "dress up" to the right, and move about here and there until time for the column to move out on the day's march. By that time the men would be already weary and ready to lie down. This kind of exercise was known by the privates as "knapsack drill," and was heartil}^ detested by them. Then, on the march there were many foolish and absurd practices that added to the weariness and vexation of the troops. It was the custom for the Regimental Com- mander to ride pompously on his horse at the head of his Regiment while the men on foot crowded on his horse's heels like a herd of cattle. When a bridge or other obstruc- tion was to be crossed the men invariably ran after getting over until they regained their place at the heels of the 54. CHAPLAIN HIUHT'S HISTORY OF THP^ Colonel's horse. On such occasions the newly fledged officers would cry out, "double quick," "close up," close up," and the men would attempt to obey the orders. Noth- ing was gained by such orders. It only served to weary the men. In those days the greatest man of rank was the officer of the guard. He wore a blood red sash and a bloodier ex- pression in his countenance. He was in command of a detail of men with guns and bayonets who marched in the rear of the Regiment with orders to keep all the men in ranks and especially to permit no one to fall back without a surgeon's certificate. This officer of the guard was expected to execute all the disagreeable orders of the General or Colonel, when those officers desired to escape the odium of such orders themselves. And he was expected to execute these orders without mercy or discretion. No one was really murdered but there was much threatening and swear- ing that it would be done. When a poor fellow fell by the wayside thoroughly exhausted, the guard would pounce upon him, and, with a threatening flourish of bayonet, order him to his Company, while the officer of the guard would em- phasize and embellish the order with such choice impreca- tions as he might have in stock. Sometimes the surgeon would excuse the worn out soldier, which gave him the privilege of riding in the ambulance. But, if that vehicle is already full, which was generall}^ the case, the soldier might rest by the wayside and come on at his leisure, or, if he was too far gone, he might die in the fence corner. It was an actual fact that some did thus die on this march and were found and buried by succeeding Regiments. But this was soldiering ; it was "From f^rave to gay, from lively' to severe." April 4th our Brigade, except the 17th Indiana and 26th Ohio, remained in camp. These two Regiments went out in the direction of Lawrenceburg after some rebel cavalry. They succeeded in capturing some bacon, but the cavalry- men were too fleet for them. FIFTY-EKjHTH INDIANA REGIMENT. 55 Just at this time the poHcy in reference to negro slaves was undergoing a change in the army. It had been customary to use the soldiers to send fugitive slaves to their rebel masters. But Congress had recently added to the articles of war a prohibition of this. This new article was exceedingly distasteful to many of the higher officers, who were in bondage, body and soul, to the negro drivers. They could not now use military force to send back runaway negroes. But all officers and men were pro- hibited from interfering with these old Lagrees. They might often be seen prowling about our camps, or moving amongst our columns, hunting for their missing chattels. By our protection of rebels and rebel property we were doing as much to uphold rebellion as we were doing to put it down by fighting. The rebels could have successfully withstood us for ten generations had this policy been maintained. On the 5th the march was continued through a country of medium fertility. We had rain yesterday and to-day. The dust has been succeeded by mud. We marched seventeen miles. About this time I saw for the first time a soldier buried. He had died in a camp from which the troops had moved. The surgeon in charge sent out, as our column was passing, for a detail of men and a Chaplain. I went and found Chaplain Gunn, of the 3d Kentucky, there. A rude box was made and the poor fellow placed in it. He was borne to a spot just by the roadside where a grave had been dug. While a martial band played a dirge his remains were lowered. Chaplain Gunn made a few remarks and offered up a prayer. The grave was filled and we passed on. We knew not his name or histor}^. Bvit doubtless, to some one far away, this was the saddest event of the whole war. Sunday morning, the 6th of April, we marched at 5 o'clock. Our way lay through the hills. The country was barren and the people poor. But for the first time since leaving Nashville we saw evidences of genuine loyalty. The people hung out the star spangled banner and greeted us with cheers. Some of them had come many 56 CHAPLAIN HIUHT'iS HISTOKY OK THE miles to hail the soldiers of the Union. The love of liberty like Christianity flourishes most amongst the poor. The people soon began to report to us that they could hear cannonading. By going away from the column I could distinctly note the sound. Some were unbelieving at first. But the reports grew more and more distinct until they could be heard above the noise of the marching arm}^. These were the first notes of genuine war that ever saluted the ears of the men of the 58th Indiana. Deeper, louder grew the muttering sounds of battle from the plains far away beyond the Tennessee. Thev were in strange contrast with the quiet of that lovel}^ Sabbath dav, and told too plainh^ that our countr}^ once peaceful and united, was now distracted b}^ civil war. The country people unaccustomed to such sights and sounds came forth from their homes amongst the hills and sat b}^ the wayside, watching the endless column filing by and listening to the sound of distant battle. The pace was quickened. Men pressed forward with eagerness. Notwithstanding our great distance from the battle rumors soon began to fly amongst us. They came more rapidly than if borne by winged Mercury. When, afterwards, we ascertained the exact facts of the battle we found that many of these rumors were tme. By what means did the}^ come? We were nearly fift}?^ miles from the battlefield. No courier had yet reached us. There were no electric wires. But the front of Buell's army was even now reaching the Tennessee, at Savannah, and formed a grand telegraphic line of human minds forty miles long ! Back through this living line, over hills, valleys and streams, came the news of battle dis- torted and exaggerated, but with a vein of truth running through it all. By this means we learned that the rebels had made the attack. "They will be defeated because they began the battle on Sabbath," is the sentiment boldh' avowed by imndreds of soldiers. The memorv of Bull Run was yet fresh in the minds of all. A deep and correct convic- tion prevailed that the commands of God could not be trifled with. It was an almost universal sentiment in the armv at FIFTY-EIUHTH INDIANA RE^TMENT. 57 that time that that General who commenced a battle on Sab- bath was sure of defeat. Another source of confidence was the fact that Buell's arm}' would begin to reach Grant at least by this evening. He certainly could hold out until this should happen. Our Brigade was the rear of the army except Thomas' Division. Under the stimulant of exciting events men became animated. Their minds were filled with bus}- thoughts. There was more than ordinary hilarity and con- versation in the ranks. The onl}^ fear expressed was that the battle would be over before we got there. Some were even dispirited bv this thought. All put forward their best energies. Though the way was rough we made twenty miles or more before night came upon us. We went into camp. Occasional guns were fired during the night, and a heavy rain fell. Monday morning, April 7, the column moved forward at 3 o'clock. The events of this day were similar to those of yesterday. The country was rougher and the roads very bad. Great numbers of people flocked to the roadside. Our ears were early saluted b}^ the sound of the battle renewed. The cannonading came with startling distinct- ness. We could now begin to distinguish between the dis- charge of single guns and entire batteries. We learn that our men are sore pressed and we receive orders to quicken our pace. The way in front is blocked up b}^ the trains of preceding Divisions. The road is so bad that they cannot move rapidly. We soon began to pass them. Some of these wagons were moving along the road and some were across it. Some were on the right and some were on the left. Some were moving out of the way and some were stuck deep in the mud. Some were hung against trees and some were broken down. Some were parked and others tr^nng to park. There were guards with tliiMii and a few skulkers, who had no relish for "that noise." Our own trains had been left far in the rear by this time. It was now past noon. The order came to draw ten days' rations from 58 CHAPLAIN HIUHT'S HISTORY OF THE any train we came to and press on. The men were not pre- pared to take care of so many rations. The officers had no way at all to take this supply along. The lives almost of men and officers were bound up in the baggage trains. So many wagons are only a nuisance. We drew bacon, hard bread, coffee and sugar from General Thomas' supply train, and then hurried on. Our entire march from Nashville, with the exception of one day, might be called a forced march. Many a noble soldier whose strength had been exhausted by the winter campaign, crushed almost to the earth by his heavy load, and wearied almost to death by the long march, had his sunken eye rekindled and his pallid countenance reani- mated b}^ the guns that called to the field of battle. There was many a sore conflict that day between the weakness of the flesh and the willing- ness of the spirit. Many a one said to himself: "I must sink down here for I can go no farther I" Then the thought woidd come rushing into his mind : "Shall I fail just when my coimtry needs me? Shall I sink down now when reproaches may be cast on my courage?' Stung by this thought lie collects all his little remaining C. WIIITINC;, CAPTAIN CO. * Served as orderly of Company A from organization. Was Adjutant of the Regiment from June, 1862, to June, 1864. After the close of the war he engaged in farming near Francisco. Was Treasurer of Gibson county from 1S69 to 1S71. Is now County Assessor and resides in Princeton. Me is President of the sSth Indiana Regimental Association and a member of this Publishinii Committee. PIFTY-EieHTH INDIANA RJ]GIMENT. 59 strength and moves on. They who spend their lives amid the pursuits of peace can never comprehend the dire con- flict which beset the soldier's pathway. But he is repaid if he but hears of victory in a dying hour, or living, sees the principles for which he fought triumphant ! About 4 p. m. the sound of battle died away. Rumors flew thick and fast. Amongst these the prevailing ones were "Beauregard is killed, or wounded, and the rebels are defeated." Johnson was not named in connection with the rebels. It was dark when we reached Savannah after a march of twenty-five miles. All the houses in town were full of wounded. We remained but a short time here and then went on board of the steamer yohu y. Rowc. The night was rain}^. Many of the men were exposed to the weather and got no rest. When the morning of the 8th dawned we found that our steamer had gone eight miles up the river, and was lying at Pittsburg Landing. We had passed over one hundred and fifty miles since leaving Nashville and were now ready to confront the enemy on the battlefield. CHAPTER V. On the Battlefield of Shiloh — First Impressions of Pittsburg Landing — Visible Effects of the Great Battle — Distress, Misery and Mud Every- where — Rumors of a Renewal of the Engagement — Marching to the Front over the Battle Ground — Evidences of the Dreadful Carnage — Resting on Arms, Waiting for the Enemy — Review of the Two Days' Battle and the Events Preceding — Some Critical Comments on the Con- duct OF Commanding Officers. THE morning of April 8th dawned gloomv after a night of rain. The sky was overcast b}' clouds and these were sifting a misting shower upon the earth. Only a few feet above the water there was a level bottom, about one hundred feet up and down the stream and about fifty feet wide. Rising all around this were graduall}' sloping sides to the hight of about seventy-tive feet. Thus was formed a semi-amphitheater in the bluffs which here compose the river bank. This is Pittsburg Landing. The little bottom and the hillsides was a sea of mud, deep and almost impass- able. Just at the river's brink there were some sacks of forage and a few wet slippery planks. There were not many persons about the Landing at this early hour. There were a few wounded awaiting the next boat down the river. On the forage sacks were several dead officers wrapped in their blankets. Their faces were covered but their boots were exposed. The rain had fallen upon these dead, so completelv saturating their blankets and boots, that they FIFTY-EIGHTH INDIANA REGIMENT. »il could not have looked more dreary had they been buried in the waters of the Tennessee. Our eyes could not penetrate over the bluff. No news came from the army. There was no sound save the tramping of men on the decks, the dash- ing of the waters against the hulls and an occasional reveille from the unseen camps. The voice of conversation was low. An expression of suspense and profound gloom sat alike upon the face of nature and the countenances of the untried soldiers. All minds were filled with wonder as to what the day would bring forth. There was a general expectation of battle. But many who had long coveted an engagement, like the old man in the fable who prayed for death, began now to beg to be excused. Wearied from long marching, sleepless nights and exposure, they thought that thev would prefer the battle should come at some future time, when the sun shines brightly and they are more happily circumstanced. Of nothing in all the world ma}' it more truly be said than of a battle : "Distance lends enchantmerit to the view." We are not left long to our observations and reflections here. The gang plank is thrown out and we are marched on shore. Plunging amidst the mud, we climb the slippery- hillside and pause upon the undulating plain that spreads far and wide from the summit. The guns were stacked and a short time given for breakfast. A few acres had been cleared here, and there had been several inferior houses. One of these buildings — a log hut with two rooms — was still standing full of wounded and completely surrounded by dead. The scenes about us beggared all efforts at descrip- tion. The mud was everywhere deep. The country was covered with wagons, caissons, ambulances, rations and ammunition, tents and hospitals, men on foot and horse, mingled in an interminable manner. Here and there might be seen a dead horse, but most of the men who had tallen near here were collected about the hospitals. Some had already been buried. Near us stood a siege gun, black and grim, facing to the front. A feeble effort had been made (i2 CHAPLAIN HIUHT'S HISTORY OF THE to throw up a little defensive work in tront of it, but not enough to protect the gunners. This was about the only effort at tield works on the battlefield. Everybody we met had a great deal to sav about the battle. They gave many details, and had much to tell about the good behavior of their own Regiment, Brigade, or Division, and about the cowardice of others. Meanwhile the sharp discharge of musketry came from the front. This was by us supposed to be a renewal of the battle, and was so reported by those com- ing from that way. We did not know at that time that the participants in a battle always have many exaggerated tales for new comers. But upon this occasion the expec- tation of renewed battle was general. One man, hatless and excited, came b}^ saying that he was just from the front and that the battle was commencing in great fury. By this time all things were in readiness. The men unslung their knapsacks and moved rapidly to the front. We had gone but a short distance until we began to see our dead, lying just where they fell, showing how alarmingly near our men had been driven to the river bank. It was but a short distance farther until we began to come upon the rebel dead, plainl}^ distinguishable by their dress. In an open field, through which we passed, there were great num- bers of men and horses sleeping their last sleep. On enter- ing the woods we found the timber wonderfully torn by musket and cannon shots. Limbs had been severed from the trees and many bushes had been cut in two. Tiie evi- dences of the dreadful carnage multiplied at each succeed- ing step. But blue coats disappear and gray and brown increase. We see many more rebels than of our own men. Some were sadly torn by cannon shots but most were struck by rifle balls. In several places they lav in heaps. But no time was given to us to tarry by the way. We move on, out through the camps captured by the rebels on Sunda}- but lost to them on Monday. We continue our march beyond the camp of General Prentiss and the point where the battle first began. Our Brigade here took position on a low ridge FIFTY-EIWHTH INDIANA REGIMENT. 63 fronting toward the enemy. The men lay upon their arms during the remainder of the day. The enemy not appear- ing, and there being no orders to advance, the line was slightly changed and we went into camp. Several days were here spent, giving ample time for wandering about the battlefield and making observation. The ground presents a succession of hollows and ridges but these are not deep nor high. There are but few points where the ground is sufficiently rolling to hide a man when standing. Indeed one would come near the truth to call the battletield a plain. The soil is barren and uninviting to the ,.^ husbandman. In wet weather in some places it is impassable and in all mir3% but the sun soon dries it to a hard pave- ment. Here and there might be found a log house surrounded by a few cleared acres. But the native forest, chief!}' of oak, cover the battle- field for miles. By this time the wounded had all been gathered into hospital camps, or gath- ered into the little homes of the poor farmers inhabiting these parts. Our own dead lay near the Landing, or had been buried. But everywhere might be seen the lifeless remains of the horses slain in battle. The number of these excited our wonder and awakened our sympathies in behalf of the noblest of the brute creation — man's friend in peace and his guiltless fellow sufferer in battle. DR. W. \V. BL.MU.* * Surgeon from the organization of the Regiment. Medical Director of General T. J. Wood's Division from August 9, 1862, during the remainder of his service in the armv. Since the war Dr. Blair has been continuously engaged in the practice of his profession at his home in Princeton. He is Treasurer of the 58th Indiana Regimental Association and a member of this Puhlishinij Coinmittee. H4. CHAPLAlxN HIUHT'S HISTORY OF THP] Everywhere we came upon the rebel dead. Two of these hiy several days in our camp before means were procured for their burial. There were collections of dead about the hospitals where they had perished of their wounds. They were strewn through the woods and in the little fields. Here lies one who was endeavoring to screen himself behind a log, and here are several fallen by the same tree. One wore upon his breast a plate of iron but a grape shot had torn its way through and plowed its furrow of death into his very vitals. Some have their heads torn off or body rent to fragments by cannon balls, and others untouched by any projectile were slain by the falling branches of the forest. But the rifle ball had been the busiest messenger of death, and left by far the most victims on the field of slaughter. Some had expired seemingly without a struggle while others had plowed and beat the earth in their d3'ing agony. Some had crawled about as we could trace them by their blood, in search of help or a sup of water, but found no relief until death kindly put an end to their suffering. The dead were clad in all styles of dress, generally some kind of brown or gray roughly made, with an e3^e to military appearance. But many were clothed in citizen apparel, generally without much regard to comfort or fashion. "On tlie battle ground, at the break of day, Two lifeless soldiers lav; One face looked pitiful with ^'earning pain, As one who prajs in vain; The other wore a look divinely blest, And from the pulseless breast. The picture of a lady and a child Looked up to him and smiled!" He must be a monster, indeed, who could cherish enmilN' amid such scenes as these. The light of many a Soutliern houseliold lies extinguished. The heir of wealth and honor lies side b}- side bv the child of penur^'. Love's young dreams are here forgotten, for the gallant lover sleeps a dreamless sleep. Bright anticipations- of future happiness here went down amid the battle's storm. O, how many FIFTY-EIUHTH INDIANA REGIMENT. H5 fond hopes of parents, of sisters and of lovers were blasted on these dreadful battle days ! The revolving earth rolls onward in its course, busy events crowd each other on the stage of action, and times and seasons change, but the heart wounds received by some when the news of death's sad work came from Shiloh shall never be healed, and tears shall spring an everlasting fountain in the sorrowing soul. Some reflections on the battle of Shiloh, part of which occurred at this time and part came up as the result of after experience, may not be out of place here. When the smoke of battle has passed away it is the privilege of the humblest soldier to criticise the proudest General, and his criticisms are to be measured not b}^ his rank but by their worth. There were some officers in the army who desired their men not to think but look upon their superiors as the embodi- ment of wisdom, incapable of error. But there are few Americans who are willing to sink themselves to the level of the thoughtless herds, which have often followed the military chiefs of the Old World. One question which agitated the public mind just after this engagement, was whether or not General Grant was drvmk when the battle began. This was generally believed at the time, both in the army and out of it. But after the tan- ner bov became Lieutenant-General it was stoutly denied from many quarters. A gentleman of intelligence and truth who came up from Savannah on the same boat, says that he was not intoxicated. But being at the time lame, had to be helped on his horse, when he plunged away through the quicksand where his staff did not dare to ride. Hence, per- haps, the origin of the story. But, if it is true that there was no drunkenness on the part of the commanding General, there certainly was mismanagement somewhere. The camps were arranged about Pittsburg Landing with but little order. There was no provision made for an attack. No works were constructed. No batteries were planted. No obstructions were placed to entangle the enemy in his advance. The roads from Corinth, over which the enemy H() CHAPLAIN HWHT'« HISTUKY OF THE advanced, are usually terrible at this season of the year. He must have approached cautiously and our commanders were either ignorant of his coming, or at least made no preparations for it, and kept the matter to themselves. General Grant was absent when the battle began. Our pickets were svnprised and quickly driven in. The men in some of the Regiments did not have time to form, but were killed or captured in their camps, or driven in confusion towards the rear. Amongst these troops there was not the slightest prevailing rumor of probable battle. There was no standing in line of battle, as we did afterwards when the enemy was known not to be near. Our men rallied as well as they could and those troops, not assaulted by the enemy's first charge, formed and all fought bravely. But such was the want of preparations on our part that our men were driven from many of their camps and almost to the river. If our men had been posted in a regular line of battle, behind substantial works, with a connected line of pickets thrown out in front, and, had a sharp lookout been kept up, the}^ never would have been moved. But this lesson was not learned until later in the war. There are some things which may be learned at West Point — other things are learned from the school of experience. General Lewis Wallace was at Crump's Landing, onl}^ a few miles down the river, when the battle began, but owing to a mistake in the roads he did not reach the battlefield until the first day's fight was over. General Buell cannot be justly criticised for delay. He could not certainly be expected to know that the rebels would be there on that particular Sunday morning, when the officers on the ground knew nothing about it. The march from Nashville was as rajfid as raw troops could possibly have made. If it had not been for the dr}^ weather during most of the march, it would not have been completed in time to have taken any part in the engagement. In the light of later events of the war, it seems strange to us that our army made no fortifica- tion even after being driven all day. FIFTY-EmHTH INDIANA REGIMENT. »)7 But it is universally and justly conceded that the arrange- ments of our troops for Monday's fight were splendid. All the movements are said to have been executed in the same manner. The enemy were steadily driven back from the river — back through the camps captured on the day before ; back beyond the first point of attack. They lost the field, the dead and many of the wounded. But why were our people so easil}' satisfied? It was a golden moment such as is seldom given to an army. The copious rains fallen since the commencement of the battle had rendered the roads so horrible that the enemy were two weeks in getting back to Corinth. They were encumbered with trains, guns and wounded. We might at least have pressed them a few days. Certain it is that manv guns and prisoners might have been captured. Perhaps we might have gone straight forward, changing our base in a few days to Hamburg Landing, where the soil is more firm and from whence the roads to Corinth are better. The enemy's cavalry, which left the main army at this time, and soon learned to relish daring raids, might have been detained south of the Tennessee. The army, that afterward proudly bade Halleck a French adieu at Corinth, might have been partially crushed before the siege of Corinth began. So, Shiloh was left to be finished at Perry ville, at Stone River, at Chickamauga and at Mission Ridge, The part performed b}' the rebels in this contest was in some respects marvelous for its brilliancy of conception and execution, but sad mistakes dimmed the glory of their deeds. The plan was worthy of the master mind that devised it. General Albert Sydney Johnston had done well in conducting the war in the West. But the rebels at home were not satisfied. Their clamors reached and stung the gallant leader. He determined to dazzle them by a move- ment of Napoleonic brilliancy. In wonder they behold him flying, as if in dismay, from Nashville, through Murfrees- boro, not stopping even at Huntsville ; but at once seeks the south side of the Tennessee. From thence the railroads 68 CHAPLAIN HieHT'S HISTORY OF THE soon transport his troops to Corinth. Here he unites his forces with those of Beauregard. Immediately he moves forward to defeat Grant before the coming of Buell. All this was grand, and in striking contrast to the usual dull and snail-like movements of our own Generals in those days. But Johnson committed a great error when he attacked our army on Sunday. One greater than Johnson or Grant has said: "Remember the Sabbath day to keep it holy!" There certainh' had been enough of disastrous Sabbath fighting previous to that time to have taught him a lesson. It he only could have fallen upon our men on Saturday there would have been no Buell near to have played the part of Blucher, and Beauregard's horse might have been watered from the Tennessee. The same genius that made such rapid movements might have precipitated the contest one day earlier. Another error was the filling- of the canteens of his soldiers with whisky. Experience has shown that men need all the sense they have in battle. Drunken officers and soldiers never do so well as sober men. Even when men are without a stimulant the}- often become wild and excited in battle. Coolness, calm thought, and a consciousness of the dangers and* demands of the hour will give men confi- dence in one another and in their officers ; will produce harmony in the movements and precision in firing, and add solidarit}^ to the army. The wild huzza of the drunken charge is soon stilled by the leaden hail delivered by sober men. Then all confidence is gone and the intoxicated men become ungovernable. The officers are not fit to command, nor could they if the})- were. The surprise of our men at Shiloh enabled the rebels to fight wildlv and successfully all day. But when night came, and the excitement and whisky were spent, the rebel soldiers went down in their feelings as far below a proper level as they had been above it during the day. We might be surprised the}'^ did not entrench on Sunday night, especially in view of the coming of Buell, if it were not for their drunkenness. Men who have been excitedlv intoxicated all dav but little think that men so FIFTY-EIGHTH INDIANA REGIMENT. «i9 brave as they imagine themselves to be, need fortitications. Most of them sunk down in drunken stupor where night overtook them. Others, not having yet exhausted their sup- ply of whisky, spent the night in carousal over the supposed victor}'. One company was fovmd dead on the morrow, having been hurled into eternit}^ b}- an exploding shell while playing a game of cards. Such was the excitement of the rebels on Sunday that they neglected to take any steps to secure the camps they captured. They supposed that they could attend to this at their leisure. But when Monday morning dawned their gallant leader was dead, their artifi- cial stimulants were gone, and they had not sober courage to meet their foe. They are driven in hot haste through these camps which they cannot pause even to burn, and victory yields to sad defeat. All in all, the battle of Shiloh was more like some opiatic fever dream than sober history. There were yells and charges and roar of musketry and cannonading. The trees were torn as well in their highest branches as about their bases. Some were reckless of life beyond all reason, fight- ing with open wounds until death ensued by bleeding. Meanwhile some with disheveled hair and distorted counten- ance fled in terror to the rear. Men who survived the con- test look back in wonder on the occurrences of those event- ful days. By the official reports, one thousand seven hun- dred and thirty-nine federals and one thousand seven hun- dred and twenty-eight rebels were killed dead upon the field — being eleven more of our men than the enemy. The result shows the fight w^ell matched and the total — three thousand four hundred and sixty-seven — proves the deadli- ness of the contest. No more were reported than actually fell. No doubt both of the reports fall short of the truth. The number who died of their wounds w^ould swell the loss to about three thousand on each side. On our part 7,882 were reported wounded and 4,044 missing. Many of these missing will never be heard of until the revelation of the great day. Our loss is officially stated at 13,665. I am con- 70 CHAPLAIN HKtHTS HISTORY. fident, from what I saw and heard, that this is none too large. Fifteen thousand would be nearer the truth. The enemy lost as many. Thus thiitv thousand men were placed hors de combat at Shiloh. The country people who built the plain little log chapel and called it Shiloh. a prophetic name of the Messiah, but little thought of the deadlv strife to come, and how their little house of worship would be made famous in all coming time. The battle was well called Shiloh. and. it seems, we are indebted to the rebel General Beauregard for the appli- cation of this name to this battle. Our people began to call it Pittsburg Landing, but when he sent in his request to be permitted to bur\' his dead he dated it "On the Field of Shiloh." This name was immediately taken up by General Buell and soon preyailed oyer Pittsburg Landing. Shiloh means '"The Gathering.'* L'p to that time there had been no such gathering on the continent. It was a gathering of men and of arms. The words of Jacob were certainly ful- filled of this Shiloh. as of old : "Unto him shall the crather- ing of the people be."" It was the most deadly battle that had then been fought in America. More Americans are said to haye fallen in it than in all the Reyolutionary war. CHAPTER VI, Shiloh to Corinth — Camping Among the Dead — Un- comfortable Quarters — Moving Toward the Enemy, by Slow Degrees — General Halleck as a Commander — Corinth Evacuated — Halleck Out- witted BY Beauregard. WE remained in this camp for about ten days without tents or baggage. Our teams had not been able to reach us, owing to the effectual blockade of the single mudd}- road bevond the Tennessee. In the meantime our men con- stnicted temporar}^ shelter from the rain, which fell almost every day, by using bark which they peeled from trees. It was not the most cosy and comfortable quarters that one could imagine, but it was the best to be had. While in this ver}- undesirable situation we were visited by Judge Elisha Embree and Rev. John McMaster, two sterling, patriotic citizens of Princeton, each of whom had a son in the Regiment. Rev. McMaster remained in camp over Sabbath and preached for us, this being the first preaching service the 58th had enjoyed since my connection with it, and for some time before that. The Regiment had been required to march or perform some other dut}' almost ever}' Sabbath. Up to this time, it seemed to me, I had been able to do but little good as Chaplain. I was in bad health and was greatly discouraged, but I was not yet will- ing to give it up. In addition to our other discomforts and cheerless sur- roundings here, we were located on ground that had been the scene of some of the hardest fighting and there were 72 CHAPLAIN RIGHT'S HISTORY OF THE dead bodies of men and horses all about us for several days. A stor}^ is told of one of our men that he lay down beside one to sleep one night and became highly offended because his silent companion would not divide blankets. Why did we not bury them? Well, I hardly know, unless it was because we had no spades or other tools with which to dig a grave. Burying parties were at work but it was a big undertaking and it was several days before the work was completed. The weather continued damp and cold and the men were suffering from privation and hunger. All the rations had to be carried on their backs from Pittsburg Landing, a distance of four miles. There were several cases of severe illness here and their only shelter from the rain was such as could be made from the bark of trees. Among those who were severely sick was Private Emmerson, of Company F, and the news had got home that he was dead. In a day or two after the sutler of the 8th Indiana Battery, who had been home on a visit, arrived in camp bringing with him a fine metallic coffin. When he came to the Regiment to inquire after the corpse he was astonished to learn that it was not ready. Comrade Emmerson is the only living man in the 58th who had so fine a coffin sent to him. He lived to serve his time out. During the remainder of April we had some pretty tough experiences in soldiering. The country was the most deso- late and forsaken we had ever seen ; the rains continued and the mud was very deep and very nasty. Sickness increased and many deaths occurred. The 58th lost some noble men in this wilderness campaign. We moved camp every few days, often going but a few miles, but never staying at one place long enough to get fixed up, even if the facilities for fixing had been at hand. During the month of May we continued our cautious advance toward Corinth, where the rebels were now in force, strongly fortified. Our position was in General Buell's arm}^ in the center. Grant's army was on the right and General Pope, who had come up after the capture of FIFTY-EWHTH INDIANA REUIMENT. 73 Island No. lo, with the arm}- of the Mississippi, was on our left. Major General Ilalleck was the commander of this entire force. It was an immense army and was capable of great things if it had been properl}^ managed. As it was it seemed to be cumbersome and unwieldy. Somehow the several Divisions seemed to be getting in each other way. Sometimes we thought ourselves in the front and near the rebels. Pickets would be thrown out ; strict orders would be given about making tires or noise of any kind, lest the enemy should discover our position. Later we would discover that a whole Division of our own troops were in tront of us with blazing lires and stirring music. On the 1 8th of May, however, we did get near enough to the enem}-^ to hear balls whistle and shells burst. liere we threw up our hrst entrenchments. We were now about three miles from Corinth and the rebels were plenty enough between us and that town. From this time until the 30th of May there was more or less skirmishing in our front every day, but no serious casualties occurred in the 58th. On the morning of May 30th the 58th was out on picket. About daylight the drowsy sentinels were arroused by a loud and continuous explosion. Looking in the direction of Corinth we discovered huge columns of smoke rising over the town and above the intervening tree tops. Soon the news came that the rebels had evacuated the place. This was as much of a surprise to General Halleck as it was to the private in the rear rank. Although we had been for two months within twenty miles of the enem3^ it appears that our commanding General had never been able to compre- hend his movements. And now, after all this delay and extreme caution on the part of the Commander of this army of over 100,000 men, the wily foe had escaped. Just when General Halleck thought he was read}^ to close in on Beaure- gard, that shrewd Commander deliberately walked out of the trap. There was great strategy displayed in this Corinth campaign — but it was all on the part of General Beauregard. As soon as the discoverv was made that the rebels were 7+ CHAPLAIN MIGHT'S HISTORY. evacuating, General Nelson and General McCook hastened forward with troops from their respective Divisions and occupied the town. They followed the retreating rebels a short distance beyond, but they had too much of a start of our forces, and nothing of importance was accomplished. So, the fruits of our victorv were the peaceable possession of a town of insignificant proportions, and such things thereunto appertaining as the rebels did not care to take away with them. Saturday morning, May 31st. our Brigade went into Corinth, and remained during the da v. We spent a good deal of the time looking around this late rebel stronghold. We found a great amount of camp equippage which, oiu" friends, the enemy, had left, but which thev had rendered useless. There was also a great quantit\- of provision left but they had attempted to destrov this in various wavs. They had destroyed manv of the houses in the town and left it in a very forlorn and ruined condition. There were numerous forts and formidable works of defense around the place, but the seige guns and lighter field pieces had been removed while our army was innocently waiting. In their retreat from Corinth the rebel army was broken into detachments, part going toward Okolona, Miss., and part toward Memphis. Probably the largest part of what had been Beauregard's grand army at Corinth, was the force under General Bragg that headed eastward toward Chatta- nooga. In consequence of this movement of the rebels, our army had to suffer similar disintegration. The arni\- of {he Ohio, which was the designation of that force commanded by General D. C. Buell, and of whicli the 58th was a part, was directed to look after General T?ragg, and we immedi- ately turned our attention in that direction. Bragg, how- ever, had every advantage of his competitor, antl it was not long after the evacuation of Corinth until his arm^• was safely established in Chattanooga, and read\- for offensive operations. What these were will be fulh* developed as we proceed with oiu" stouy. CHAPTER VII. FuoM Corinth to McMinnville — Getting out op' Ma- larial Swamps into a Healthful Country — Inci- dents OP' the March through Alabama — Tuscumkia — Moorp:sville — Hot Roast at Huntsvile — Forcp:d March to Shelby ville — Enjoying Life at Dp:cherd — Up thp: Cumberland Mountains and Back Again — Watchin<; the Movements of Bragg — A Brush with Forest. MONDAY morning, June 2d, General Wood's Division, of which the 58th was a part, began its march towards the East. We camped for a few days at Bear Creek, near luka, having passed through Farmington, en route. We then continued our march eastward, along the line of the Memphis and Chattanooga railroad, until we reached Tus- cumbia, where we again went into camp on the 9th of June. Our camping place here was on the count}^ fair ground, one of the most beautiful locations for a camp we had yet found. The ground was encompassed by a broad stream of clear, cold water, running out of a bluff of rocks. It was one of the tinest springs in the world and this clear water was healthful and refreshing to the boys who had been living for tlie last three months in the swamps from Pittsburg Landing to Corinth, and drinking of the sickly miserable water which was the only kind to be had in that country. The 15th Brigade was now in the advance of Buell's army and was, to a large extent, isolated from any large body of troops. This was a new experience to us and an advantage in many ways. It afforded an opportunity for enjoving this splendid 7r. CHAPLAliN HIUHT'S HISTORY OF THE country which had not yet been disturbed by either army. It was like entering the confines of a new world when we left the barren wastes of the country about Corinth and the crowded presence of a large army, and were permitted to breathe the pure air, drink the fine water and enjo}^ the scenery of the tine plantations of northern Alabama. The effect of this change of atmosphere, diet and scenery, was soon manifested in the improved condition of the soldiers. Man}^ of those w^ho had been barelv able to keep up with their Compan}^ during the long campaign through the Mis- sissippi swamps, speedily regained their wonted health and vigor under the influences of this invigorating Alabama climate. During the three weeks' stav in the tair i^i'ound at Tuscumbia there w^as a wonderful recuperation of the men of our Regiment, and when we again started on the march the 58th was in a better condition plwsically than it had ever been. Thousrh not so strono- in numbers as when it left Camp Gibson, it was better able to withstand the hard- ships of a soldier's life, because the men who were with the Regiment now were thoroughly seasoned to these hardships. While the 58th w;as in camp at this place several incidents occurred affecting the organization of the Regiment. One of these w^as the resignation of Colonel Carr and tiie pro- motion of Lieutenant-Colonel George P. Buell to the vacancy. Captain Brown, of Company A, and Lieutenant Knox, of Company D, also resigned and left the Regiment at this place. First Lieutenant William Davis was promoted to the Captaincy of Company A, and Sergeant Charles C. Whiting, was made First Lieutenant of same Companv : 2d Lieutenant George Whitman, of Compan^' D, was promoted to the vacancy made bv the resignation of Lieutenant Knox. ■ Previous to this time several other changes occurred which we will note : Captain Joseph Crow, Company F, left us while the Regiment was in Kentuckv, March 21, 1862. Lieutenant Daniel L. Cain was promoted to tlie vacancv. Second Lieutenant Joseph D. Fisher resigned April 19th, 1862, while {hv Regiment was on the Corinth campaign, and GENERAL GEORGE P. BUELL. For Biographical Sketch see page 568. KIFTY-EKiliTH INDIANA REGIMENT. 77 First Sergeant Augustus Milburn was promoted to the vacancy. Captain David J. Banta, of Company E, resigned May 30th, 1862, and ist Lieutenant A. H. Alexander was promoted to the vacancy. Lieutenant Samuel H. Spillman, Company G, resigned March 23d, 1862. Sergeant Major Joseph Grant was promoted to the vacancy. Second Lieu- tenant George Labarree, of tiie same Company, resigned March 4th, 1862, and Sergeant Sasser Sullivan was pro- moted to the vacancy. Captain W. B. Carr, of Company K. left the Regiment May 1st, 1862, and his place was tilled by the promotion of Lieutenant Charles H. l^ruce. The old regimental band retiunied to us while we were in camj") at Tuscumbia. Mention has alread^' been made ot the iiand's departure wliile we were in camp at Edgefield. 1 1 seems tiiat the Government had reconsidered its determin- ation not to muster regimental bands, and so it came about tiiat the 58th band was returned. The leader of the band was James Patterson and there were some very good musi- cians among them. There were some in the organization, iiowever, who had not even a speaking acquaintance with a musical sound. But our band was tully up to the average regimental bands of those times, and its music served lo enli\'en things in camp and on the march — particu- larh- when the Colonel would spy some women ahead of tlie column waiting to see us pass. By experience and intuition, whenever the band struck up on our march, the boys always knew that there were women ahead, and they would give their ragged and dusty blouses a sudden jerk, shift their belt and cartridge boxes, and otherwise adjust themselves so as to make as tine an appearance as possible for the coming female review. When the reviewing party wns scrutinized it was often found to be composed of the most homely female specimens the country could produce ; and that is saying a great deal, for the productions in this line in some of the country through which we passed were truly marvelous. Instead of finding a bevy of beautiful damsels of the sunny south in these groups there was often 7J5 CIIAI'LAKN lll(illT-S illST01.'V OK THE a motlev collection of long, lank women, with sallow count- enances and hollow eves, indicating a habit of snutT eating and a daily diet of clay. But the band played on, while the bovs would indulge in words pertaining to the Colonel and his display that would require dashes and exclamation points if produced in print. I have mentioned some of the events that occurred at Tuscumbia camp affecting the official roster of the Regi- ment, but T will omit some things in this line that might be mentioned. It will serve the purpose of this record just as well if the short comings and indiscretions of some of the officers and men, who afterward proved themselves true and brave soldiers, should be covered bv the broad mantle of charity. The 58th was not idle while in camp at tiiis place, al- though there was a good deal of resting done. There was a resumption of Company and battallion drill, an exercise that had been in suspense, for obvious reasons, for many months. While there was no large rebel force in the vicin- ity, there were manv bands of guerillas prowling around the country. Many of the members of these bands were good loyal citizens during the da\' time, but after dark the^' were individually and collectively hostile to the "Yankee invaders," as they regarded us, and they were ready tf) engage in any scheme that would work damage to the Union arm}'. One of their favorite pastimes was the burning of cotton and the destruction of railroad bridges. Almost every night the light from burning cotton gins could be seen. The particular object in this wanton destruction of their own property was somewhat of a myster\' to us. We could only surmise that it was Ix^cause of the fear that this cotton would fall into the hands of the Union forces and would strengthen their cause. The foolish idea that "Cot- ton was King," and that it was the controlling commercial product of the world, was prevalent in that section in these (laws. There was a large explosion of this idea later on. An effort was made to apprehend these marauders and FIFTY-EIUHTH INDIANA RE(iIiVIENT. 79 stop thfir depredations and to some extent it was successful. Several scouting parties were sent out tVom the Regiment and Brigade and some captures were made. Company B, of the 58th, and Company K, of the 17th, were detailed to go to Cain Creek, about ten miles distant, to guard the railroad bridge and to keep an, eve on things in that section. This detachment was on dutv there about two weeks when they were relieved by a Company of cavalry and orders were given the Companies to rejoin the Brigade, which then had orders to march. About the ist of July the L5th Brigade broke camp and lett this pleasant situation, taking up its march eastward. This was not at all agreeable to the soldiers, but they did not think it worth while to make a formal protest to General Buell, who was in command. The soldiers had learned by this time that their pleasure and convenience was not always consulted bv the General in command. They had learned that they had the privilege of grumbling all they wanted to and might complain of the hardships and unpleasantness of their situation to their hearts' content. There was no objection to that — just so they obeyed orders. Following the line of railroad — which, by the way, was biMng operated now by the army between Corinth and Decatur — we soon found ourselves in Decatur. Here we remained in camp a few days waiting for the completion of arrangements for crossing the Tennessee river. We spent the 4th of July here. As part of the exercises of this day we were reviewed by Brigadier-General Wood and Briga- dier-General Hascall. There was also some attention triven to dress parade and the promulgation of some general orders pertinent to the occasion. The members of the 58th indulged their patriotic ardor by taking a good rest, which was really about the most sensible form their patriotism could take. It was a relaxation they ver^- much needed, after the several davs' marching through the hot sun that had preceded and was to follow this camping place. On Julv 5th we crossed the Tennessee river, using some 80 CHAPLAIN HKiHT'S HISTORY OF THE old flat bottom barges for the purpose, the rebels having destroyed the railroad bridge here. The river was shallow and the men used long poles to push the boats across. It was about ii o'clock p. m., July 5th, when the 58th had all crossed, and they went into camp a short distance beyond the riv.er. Next day we resupied our march to Mooresville, six miles from Decatur, where we again went into camp for a few davs. We left here about the loth dav of July and marched to Huntsville, through which we passed on one ot the hottest da}'s we had ever experienced. To make the matter worse the Regiment was haltetl just beft)re reaching the town and the men were ordered to put on their blouses — it was their custom to discard blouses and extra clothing on these hot marches. But the Colonel commanding was going to make a grand show of iiis Regiment now. ITunts\-ille was a line town, inhabited by reiininl, wealthy people, and it woidd never do lor us to march through the cit\' in our shirt sleeves and otherwise slovcMily attire. So the order vvas given to have the men put on their coats and adjust their equipments preparatory to a grand march through the city. llw boys were not averse to participating in this kintl of a jiarade under ordinary circumstances, but just now {be condition was not particular!}' pleasing. But the Colonel I. M. SMITH, CAI'TAIN CO. 15. ♦At the organization of the Re<,Mnient was Second Lieutenant of Co. K. Was promoted to First Lieutenant of that Company June Ji, 1S62. Trans- ferred and promoted to Captain of Co. B, December 30, 1S62, and continued as such until April. 1865. Since the war he has been en<;a',^ed principall\ in farming and stock raisini< near Newman. Ills., where he still resides. FIFTY-EmHTH INDIANA REGIMENT. 81 has commanded and the}- had no choice in the matter. The Companies were divided into phitoons, and with guns at "right shoulder shift," bayonets fixed, the cohimn started, headed by the Colonel and his staff' mounted in front. The regimental band was making its best efforts in the way of music, the tired foot soldiers were doing their best to pre- sent a martial appearance, while Old Sol, from his place, high in the heavens, was doing his best to make a general roast ot the entire aggregation. His efforts were the most nearly a success. The lines were kept in pretty good shape tor a short time, but before we were through the business part of the citv, men began to fall out bv the dozens and hunt tor a shade. They were utterlv exhausted. Some of them came a few hours later to the Regiment, when W went into bivouac a couple of miles out of town, but many others were turned into the hospital, and not a few never were with the Regiment again. We went into camp in a beautiful grove just outside of town and the wearv soldiers were soon stretching themselves upon the grass enio\'ing a much needed rest. We prepared dinner and it was the general belief that the Regiment was to remain in camp here, for awhile at least. All were delighted at the prospect of camping in such a pleasant place. Here was a rich agricultural country with ffne roads, ffne springs of water, with a fine town the center of it all. Who would not be delighted to live in such a locality? It was not strange that the 58th Regiment should rejoice in a chance to rest in such a place after the several months of almost continuous marching. We also found much satis- faction in the prospect of remaining here, from the fact that the 42d Indiana was stationed at Huntsville. As two Companies of this Regiment had been raised in Gibson count V, our boys found many old acquaintances and friends with whom they expected to exchange visits, and have a real good time. But, alas, our pleasant anticipations were of short dura- tion. Soon after going into bivouac the orders came to be 82 CHAPLAIN HKiHT'S HISTOKY OK THE ready to march at 4 o'clock the same afternoon. Our orders for a sudden departure from here was on account of news of Forrest's raid in Tennessee. He had made an attack on a force of ovir men at Murfreesboro, under General Critten- der, capturing the entire force. Forrest was expected to continue depredations in that section and the advance troops of General Buell's army were ordered to move on to Shelbyville with all possible speed. So it was that our stop at Huntsville was cut short. At five o'clock in the afternoon of the same dav of our arrival, we were moving out on the turnpike towards Shelbvville. We marched until 1 1 o'clock that night before stopping to camp. Next morning we resumed our march at an earh- hour. We crossed the state line during the day and reached Fav- ettsville, Lincoln county, Tennessee, that night. There was a pretty strong Union sentiment in this count\' and as our Regiment was the first Union soldiers that had passed through that section, we were an object of much interest to these loval people. They met us with every demonstration of joy. But there was also a large secession element here that looked upon us with hatred and bitterness. There was a very bitter feeling in this part of Tennessee between the citizens. In many sections there was open war. Guer- rilla fighting was common. As we passed through tliere was no organized rebel armv near us, but the country was full of rebel guerrillas and bush-wliackers, and woe to the straggler who fell into tlieir hands. Some of our Regiment who had relatives and friends in tliis section and who took occasion to visit them during our march through, could a tale unfold as to tlie danger of such a ven- ture. In the afternoon of the fourth day after leaving Huntsville we arrived at Shelbyville. This was the most loyal town we had struck since leaving Indiana. As we entered the town we were enthusiastically cheered by the citizens of all ages and sexes who lined the streets. From the court house there floated the stars and stripes, and from many of the KIFTV-KKiHTH INDIANA RPXtIMKNT. 83 houses the same emblem of Unionism and loyahy, was dis- pla3^ed. A large number of young men of this place enlisted in the Union army, and many gave their lives in the defense of the flag of their country-. Our stop here was not long. A large number of the Regiment had dropped out on the way hither and we waited a day or. two for them to catch up. Then we went on to Decherd, a little station on the Nashville &, Chattanooira railroad, arriving there about the 23d of July. Here we went into camp and made preparations to stav awhile, and we actually did stay for three weeks. The greater part of General Wood's division was concentrated about Decherd. Our purpose, so far as we could understand it, was^to guard the railroad and to watch the movements of the rebels who were now^ concentrated at Chattanooga. But it was not the business of the common soldier to bother about plans and purposes. That was the concern of the officer in command. Tlie rank and tile might discuss these matters, and form tlieories, and evolve military movements, developing strategy of the highest order, but they did not allow such discussion and such mental exercise to interfere in any way with their ease and enjoyment — not after they had the experience of real soldiers. The 58th had such experience by this time. We did not care what the General was planning to do or what would be our next move. Our chief concern was to get plenty to eat and secure a cool comfortable place to sleep. There were very strict orders against foraging, but the boys did not care for the orders. If they could evade the pickets and escape the patrol that was frequently sent out to gather up the foragers, they would have the best the land afforded. And the crop of potatoes, corn, chickens, etc., was prett}' good around Decherd about this time, as many of the 58th boys can testify. In the event that a for- ager should fall into the hands of a too zealous squad of the patrol, or if the picket guard should be obstinate and refuse to "look the other way," just when the forager was trying to sneak into camp with his load, — should he be captured 84 CHAPLAIN MIGHT'S HISTORY OK THE and be marched in "disgrace" to the General's headquarters, he was sure to receive a very severe reprimand. Sometimes he was sentenced to "carry a rail," sometimes he was called to undergo some more severe punishment, but more often he was sent to his Colonel or his Captain, who would be instructed to inflict such punishment as the crime might deserve. Inmost cases this mode of punishment . was the severest of all to the unfortunate foracfer. He would have to "divide" with the Colonel, or the Captain, one or both, too often both. Then he would be sent to liis mess to feast on what was left, promising, meanwhile, that he wouW never be guilty of foraging again, or, if he should ever in- dulge in such practice, that he would be more careful about being caught. Thus the time passed. We had an abund- ance of garden vegetables, roasting ears, peaches and all kinds of fruit. The country was well supplied with these products, but it was rather barren in that respect after our three weeks' stay. It must not be understood here that the soldiers confiscated all this without compensating the own- ers. As a rule the produce was bought and paid for. Tlie soldier who had money would alwavs exchange it for some- thing to eat, and he was not alwavs particular about the price. During our stay here a detail was made from tlie Regi- ment to go to Indiana on a recruiting service. Of this detail Major J. T. Embree, and Captain Joseph Moore, of Company B, were a part. It was while we were in this camp that Hugh Shaw, of Company I, became involved in a quarrel with Major Foster, of the 3d Ohio cavalrv, and knocked him down. Shaw was afterward court martialed and sentenced to be shot, but owing to some defect in the proceedings the order was never executed. Dr. W. W. Blair, our Regimental Surgeon, was appointed Medical Director of Wood's Division, August Qth, while we were at Camp Decherd. He entered upon his duties at General Wood's headquarters and his place in the Regiment was filled bv Dr. J. R. Adams. Dr. Samuel E. Holtzman, FIFTY-EIGHTH INDIANA KKCIIMENT. 85 of Bloomington, Indiana, who came to the Regiment in April, as an additional assistant Surgeon, by order of Gov- ernor Morton, had remained as such until this time. In the transfer of Dr. Blair to Division headquarters, Dr. Holtzman became regular assistant Surgeon. August 14th we left our pleasant camp at Decherd and moved in the direction of Manchester. We stopped near this town for a dav or two then moved on toward McMinn- ville, camping at a point on the railroad about twelve miles trom that place. Our Regiment was assigned the duty of repairing the railroad from Tullahoma to McMinnville. Com- pany B was detached on special duty to guard a bridge about four miles from the Regimental camp. The Company re- mained here about two weeks and were then re- lieved by Company F, 54th Ohio. Company B was ordered to report to their Regiment, which was then under orders to join the Brigade, stationed six miles from McMinnville. Before arriving, however, the Brigade had moved, the entire Division being under march- ing orders and on the road across the Cumberland mountains toward Chattanooga. So the 58th only halted at the recent camping grounds of the Brigade long enough to draw rations and eat dinner. Then we moved on after our command. J. R. ADAMS. * Started out as Assistant Surgeon and discharged the duties of Regi- mental Surgeon after the appointment of Dr. Blair as Medical Director. Was promoted to Surgeon of the 15th Indiana in August, 1863, and continued as such during the remainder of his army service. Since the war he has heen practicing his profession in Petersburg, Incl., where he still resides. 8H CHAPLAIN RIGHT'S HISTORY OF THE We reached their camping place at the foot of the mountains about sundown and rested for the night, feasting ourselves on the excellent potatoes, roasting ears, etc., which were plentiful hereabout. Early next morning we began climbing the mountain, the men pulling the wagons and artillery up the steep places in the winding road by long ropes attached to the vehicles. It required all the strength of men and mules to draw the artillery and wagons up the mountain, but it was linallv accomplished. About ii o'clock we were on the summit and halted here for two or three hours, then moved on to within two miles of Altamont. General Wood sent a squad of cavalry ahead and the\' came back reporting water and forage scarce. On the strength of this intbrmation we were ordered to countermarch to the place from whence we started in the morning. This was a trying ordeal tor the boys who had nearly exhausted themselves in the arduous work of the morning. They were not only tired but were half famished with thirst ; and no water nearer than the foot of the mountain, seven miles down the roughest road ovt'r which we had ever traveled. But such inconveniences and discouragements are part of a soldier's life and it is the part of a soldier to endure them with as much complacencv as the circumstances will admit. So we turned about and started for the foot of the mountain. Sometime after dark we reached our camping place of the night before and tbund water to quench our thirst and something to satist\' our hun- ger. Then we found a convenient spot of ground tor a bed and were soon in a condition of forgetfulness of tlie jiast and of indifference as to the present. Next morning we resumed our march and stopped again at the former Brigade camping ground, six miles from McMinnville. We cleaned oft' a nice place for camping, and, after the usual manner, moved next day. Stopped within two miles of McMinnville where we remained for some time. Our condition now seemed to be one of sus- pense and uncertainty. There appeared to be a great deal FIFTY-EIGHTH INDIANA RF:UIMENT. 87 of uncertainty on the part ot' our Commanders as to whether Bragg's army was contemplating an advance on our position at McMinnville, or whether they were going to some other place. It was pretty evident to those in a position to know that the rebel army was unusually active and that some important move was contemplated. Forrest's cavalry was ver}' much in evidence in our vicinitv. On the 30th he made an attack on a stockade erected and defended by the 54th Ohio Company, that had taken the place of Company B, of the 58th, a few days before. Forrest's forces were repulsed with considerable loss. The news of this affair was brought to our camp by a courier, who was hatless, coatless and very much demoralized. He insisted that the rebels were coming in great force. Of course this created considerable excitement in camp. The "long roll" was sounded and our troops were soon in line ready for action. But they did not come. In fact, Forrest was just now try- ing to avoid any large body of troops, as he was in some- thing of a close place and was seeking a way to get out of it. It was about two o'clock p. m. of that same day that General Wood received word that Forrest's command was crossing the railroad about two miles from our camp, and was making his way toward Woodbury. The information was that his forces expected to cross the Murfreesboro road at a poiht eight miles to our rear. Immediateh^ General Wood ordered three Regiments of our Brigade, viz : — the 26th Ohio, 58th Indiana, 17th Indiana, and the 8th Indiana Bat- tery, all under the command of Colonel Fyffe, — to start on the "double quick," to intercept the rebels at the point indi- cated. After a hot march we came upon the enemy about dark, just as he was turning into the road upon which our Bri- gade was marching, when our skirmishers opened tire. The battery took position and opened up, while the whole Brigade in line of battle advanced. But Forrest's command did not stay to see the fight. They were taken by surprise and fled in great confusion, leaving on the field arms, horses, mules, equipments, and the only wagon they had. They 8« CHAPLAIN HKtHT'S HISTORY. took to the woods, scattering in even^ direction, seeming!}^ every man for himself. Of course it was useless for us to pursue them. It was now after dark and they were mounted, and the}' could easily keep out of the way of our soldiers on foot. So we returned to camp. Next morning the 58th Regiment was ordered to return to the scene of the last night's skirmish on a reconnoiter- ing tour. We found a great many relics of the stampede ol the night before in the shape of guns, and accouterments, articles of clothing, etc., but nothing of much value. It was learned that several of Forrest's men were wounded in the skirmish but they had all been taken away. As it appeared to us now our hast}^ return to camp last night was a blunder. In the lirst place the march was an unnecessary hardship on the men, and in the second place we missed an opportunity to secure the fruits of our bloodless victory. Many of the stampeded rebels, as it was learned, were hid- ing in the woods in the near vicinity during the night, ex- pecting to be captured in the morning. What a surprise it must have been to them that the "Yankees" were not about next morning. This being the case, there was nothing for the lingering "Johnnies" to do but to deliberately take up their journe^^ toward their command. It was about noon of that day when the 58th arrived and it was expecting too much of the discomfitted "Johnnies" to wait on us until that hour — especially when there was some uncertainty about our coming. We gathered what booty there was to be found and returned to camp in the evening. CHAPTER VIII. Retreat from McjMinnville to Louisville — Through iVIURFREEISBORO NaSHVILLE BoWLING GrEEN Fight at Mumfordsville — Rapid Marching after Bragg — Arrival at Louisville — Tired, Ragged, Dusty and Discouraged. WHILE it may not have appeared to the common soldier that our movements for the past six months have been controlled by anything that Bragg has been doing, or attempting to do, yet it will soon appear plain enough to any one, that his movements have a very distinct controlling influence on our own. One of the things discovered by our trip to the top of the mountains was that Bragg' s whole army was on the move.* It has been noted that Bragg had concentrated the arm}- under his command at Chattanooga. During the summer * The following dispatch to General Buell from General Thomas, who was in command of the Union forces at McMinnville, throws soine light on that mountain march and the reason for turning back: HEADQJ.TARTERS FiRST DIVISION, ARMY OF OlIIO, } Altamont, Tenn., August 25th, 5 p. m. f A/a/or- Genera/ Buclh Decherd: The enemy no nearer than Dunlap. It is reported there is one Brigade there, and one at Pikeville. This I learn here, and which confirms the report of Major Loughlin, First Ohio Cavalry. Water scarce — only one spring here: and not forage enough in the neighborhood to last for one day. The road up the mountain is almost impassable. General W'ood has been from six o'clock till now, and has not succeeded in getting his artillery up the road. I deem it next to impossible to march a large army across the mountains by Altamont, on account of scarcity of water and forage, and the extreme difficulty of passing over the road. I will therefore return to McMinnville and await further orders. As I mentioned in one of my dispatches. I regard McMinnville as the most important for occupation of anv. The occupation of McMinn\'ille, Sparta, and Murfreesboro will, in my opinion, secure the Nashville and Chattanooga railroad. I have sent out Smith to put in operation a system of couriers, by which, I believe, we can get reliable information. Very respectfully, GEORGE H. THOMAS, Major- General U. S. V. 90 CHAPLAIN RIGHT'S HISTORY OF THE he does not seem to have been very active, at least his activ- ities have not been troublesome to our army, as we were several miles away, with high mountains and a broad river between us. It was about the 22d of August when Buell tirst learned definite!}' that the rebel chietlain was crossing the Tennessee river, but there was some doubt, it seems, as to what his intentions were. It was now pretty evident from all the circumstances that he wanted to get into Ken- tucky, but there was uncertainty as to what route he would take. This uncertainty remained until August 27th, when General Thomas captured a dispatch to the rebel General, Van Dorn,* which revealed Bragg' s whole plans. But the information came too late to enable Buell to checkmate the move. Bragg had simply outwitted Buell and had the start of our army. On the 30th of August, Buell gave orders for the army to concentrate at Murfreesboro with all possible dispatch. This was the beginning of the great race to Louisville. It was the 3d of September that General Wood's division started on that famous retreat. This was a move of which very little can be said to the credit of our military leaders. It was a forced march from beginning to finish. The weather was hot, the roads were dusty and for the greater part of the distance there was a great scarcity of water. * IIeADQLI ARTERS DEPARTMENT No. 2, / Chattanooga, Tenn., August 27th, 1862. \" Major-dcneriil Earl Van Dorn, Commandins^ District of the Mississippi, Jack-son , Miss. General: We move from here immediately, later hv some davs than expected; but in time, we hope, tor a suc-cessful campaign. Buell has cer- tainly fallen back from the Memphis and Charleston railroad, and will probabl>- not make a stand this side of Nashville, if there. He is now forti- fying that place. General E. K. Smith, reinforced by two Brigades from this army has turned Cumberland Gap. and is now marching on Lexington, Kentuck^■. General Morgan (Yankee) is thus cut oft' from all supplies. General Humphrey Marshall is to enter Eastern Kentucky from Western Virginia. W^e shall thus have Buell pretty well disposed of. Shennan and Rosecrans we leave to vou and Price, satisfied voii can dispose of them, and we confidently hope to meet you upon the Ohio. Respectfullv, vour obedient servant. BRAXTON BRAGG, M. M. KiMMKi.. General Comma7iding. FIFTY-EIUHTH INDIANA REGIMENT. 91 Our destination, as we thought, was Murfreesboro. And so it was, but we did not stop there. We found on reaching that place that other troops were ahead of us. A great army was passing through here in hurried haste, all headed in the direction of Nashville, and all the Government stores in Murtreesboro were being sent to that place. What did it mean ? Some of the more sanguine thought it meant that the war was over and we were going home. But there were not many who shared in this belief. It was too plainly evi- dent that there was something serious involved in our hur- ried movement to the rear. Tired, dusty and foot-sore we arrived at Nashville, finding the army increasing in numbers as we moved toward that place. Camping here for one night we resumed our march toward Gallatin. This was oft' the line of march on which the main army was passing, and the roads were less block- aded and our progress less interrupted. Between Gallatin and Bowling Green the 58th marched a day and night, covering a distance of over forty miles. On arrival at Bowling Green we went into camp for a few days, enjoying the first rest that we had had since leaving McMinnville. By this time we knew something more definitely as to the reason of our retrograde movement. We all realized now that there was a hurried race between Buell and Bragg for the Ohio river, with the chances in favor of Bragg winning. The two armies were moving part of the time on parallel roads, often only a few miles apart. While we were resting at Bowling Green, Bragg's army gained the advance and swuno- his forces airainst Mumfordsville, where there was a Brigade or more of Union troops, under the temporary com- mand of Colonel J. T. Wilder. After a sharp fight the Union troops were forced to surrender. About 4,000 men and 4,000 small arms, and a large amount of army stores, was our loss here. This occurred on the 17th of September. Buell's advance did not reach the place until the 21st. In the meantime all our captured prisoners had been paroled by Bragg. The main part of Bragg's army had swung oft' 92 CHAPLAIN HKiHT'S HISTOKY UF THE to the right from the direct road to Louisville. A strong force had been left at Mumfordsville, however, to resist our advance. Our Brigade was in the advance of BuelFs army as we approached Mumfordsville. Being apprised of the rebel force at that place we moved forward with extreme caution. When within about four miles of the place we en- countered the rebel cavalry. Deploying into line of battle, our Brigade moved on through helds and woods, driving the rebels back. Thev did not offer much resistance until the}^ reached the main force which was posted across the river from Mumfordsville. Here they showed such a deter- mination to resist our further progress that preparation was made to give them the best we had in the wav of tight. Two Companies of the 58th Indiana were sent forward as skirmishers, with the entire Regiment as reserve. Behind this were the other Regiments of the Brigade in line of battle, supporting the 8th Indiana Battery posted on a higii knoll commanding the crossing at the river. Detachments of the 3d Ohio cavalr}^ were on either flank. It was not long until the skirmishers had opened up communication with the rebels across the river, and there was quite a lively interchange of shots for a while. Several times the rebels attempted to drive back our skirmishers but were not suc- cessful. We held our ground while the batteries from both sides thundered, and the solid shot and exploding shells tore up the ground and made our situation anything but pleasant. Tiring of this after a time, we made a charge across the river, which was shallow enough at that time to wade, and drove the rebels from their position. We found that the force was not strong, only a few cavalry left behind to impede our progress while Bragg' s main army could gain time. Although no serious casualt}^ resulted from this engagement it served to show the soldierly qualities of the men of our Regiment and their courage under fire. Every man was in his place ready for duty and did his duty unflinchinglv. Among those who were captured and paroled at Mum- FIFTY-EKjHTH INDIANA EECilMKNT. 93 fordsville were a number of recruits and returning convales- cents of the 17th Indiana. They had got thus far on their way with Colonel Wilder when Bragg' s advance struck the place and gobbled them up. Next morning after our little brush with the rebels we resumed our march toward Louisville. Bragg was now in our advance, but at Elizabethtown he turned to the right, taking the route leading through Bardstown. It was vet uncertain wiiether he would reach Louisville ahead of us, and we were pushed forward with all possible speed. We passed rapidly on to Elizabethtown where we arrived at 3 p. m. of the same day. We went into bivouac for a short time, but about dark we again took up our line of march and kept going until ii p.m., when we went into camp for the night. Early next morning we started without having an opportun- ity to get anything to eat. About 2 o'clock p. m. we arrived at West Point on the Ohio river, nineteen miles below Louisville. General Buell here took steamboat passage for Louisville, and we went into bivouac until 10 o'clock next morning. At that hour we started again but did not make very rapid progress. Late in the afternoon of September 25th, we went into camp in a meadow, situated on the river bank, with the pleasant prospect of a good night's rest. But our anticipations were not realized. About 9 o'clock word came to "fall in" and move on to Louisville, about ten miles distant. It seems there was great fear that the rebels would strike that place with its garrison of new troops before our arrival. Hence the order for us to proceed at once. We were now in advance of Buell's entire arm\- and it was, therefore, important that we should move on. At 3 o'clock on the morning of the 26th of September, the Brigade to which the 58th belonged entered Louisville. It was as dirty and ragged a crowd of tourists as had ever been there. The}' were also tired, foot-sore, and very much disgusted and discouraged. Here we were again at the same place from which we started about nine months ago, with a strong and defiant rebel army within a few miles of 94 CHAPLAIN MIGHT'S HISTORY OF THE us. It indeed was discouraging, for it seemed that all our arduous work had been for naught. No wonder many of our soldiers took advantage of our proximity to Indiana to take a "French furlough" here, and visited their homes. Under all the circumstances it is eas}- to understand how many of those who thus absented themselves without leave, were persuaded, bv some of their rebel-svmpathizing friends, to remain at home, and thus to cause themselves to be marked as deserters. It is a fact that there were more cases of deser- tion during the retreat of our armv, and while we were at Louisville, than at any other time. Perhaps more than dur- ing the entire three 3"ears' service. As soon as we struck the Ohio river, at the mouth of Salt river, there was a long- ing desire to cross over into "God's Country," as our sol- diers called Indiana. The homes of manv of our Regiment were only a few miles distant, and it was not unnatural that some of them should avail themselves of this opportunity to visit their friends. At Louisville there was a great pressure upon the commanding officers for fvu'loughs. A few were granted but it was out of the question to grant all requests of this kind. It would have simply amounted to a tempor- ary disbanding of the army and giving up the cit}- to the rebels. However, those who were very anxious to go home did not stand on the formality of a furlough ; thev simply went, both officers and men. It was a risky thing to do, but most of them were fortunate enough to get back to their Regi- ments in time to avoid any serious consequences to themselves. As has been stated, we arrived in Louisville at 3 o'clock on the morning of September 26tli, in the advance of Buell's armv. It was a cold frosty niijfht, the men were all thinly clad and sulTered from cold. We halted on a vacant lot on Broad street, near the center of the city. There were several old frame buildings near at hand, and it was not long until this combustible material was doing patriotic service in warming the tired soldiers, and boiling coffee for their refresh- ment. It was cause of great astonishment to the Louisvill- ians, this invasion of their z\\\ at that hour of the night, and FIFTY-ERIHTH INDIANA REGIMENT. 95 this appropriation of their property, without leave or license. But our ragged and fatigued veterans were not in the most amiable mood just then, and were not inclined to stand on ceremony. Our entry into I^ouisville at this time and in this fashion, also occasioned something of a surprise to the Regiments of new troops which were guarding the city. Some of these new troops thought the rebels were coming sure, and the "long roll" was sounded in several camps, calling the sol- diers into line of battle to resist the invasion. Their alarm is not to be wondered at, taking ever^^thing into consider- ation. For several days the city had been in a state of fever- ish excitement on account of the approach of the rebel army. For some time after leaving Mum fords ville, as we have stated, Bragg's army was ahead of Buell, and there was a probability that Bragg would reach Louisville first. He could easily have done so, but for some reason he chose to switch off' to Bardstown. Then, another reason why the fresh troops might be excused for being alarmed at our visit on that cool September night, was because our general appearance was very much like what they would imagine the rebels to be. We were ragged and dusty, and only a few of our men had a coat or blouse of any kind. In the matter of appearance of our attire we might easily be mis- taken for a rebel army, or an army of beggars. Next day we were moved to an open space outside of the city, not very far from the place we first camped on Ken- tucky soil. We had a chance to rest here for a few days, but we had no change of clothes and no opportunity^ to draw new clothes. Our knapsacks and extra clothing had been left with the wagon train at Bowling Green. We could wash and make a more presentable appearance, however, and this we did. It is remarkable what a change can be effected, even on a ragged soldier, with a little soap and water, and an inclination to use them. While in this camp we were visited b}' many friends from home and also by Indiana's great war Governor, Oliver P. H() CHAPLAIN KlUHT'S HISTORY OF THE Morion. This was Governor Morton's third visit to the 58th since we left home and we were always glad to see him. His visit at this time was especially cheering. As he walked through our camp he spoke words of cheer to the men, assuring them of his constant concern for their welfare. He told us that we would be paid otf here and new clothing,^ blankets, etc., would be issued. This was the arrangement made through the influence of Governor Morton, but it did not. turn out that way, as we shall see presently. A large number of new Regiments were added to our armv here. These Regiments iiad been or- ganized under President Ivincoln\s call of Julv i, 1862. /\s a rale they were composed of more mature men than those who enlisted under the first call in 1861. Tlw first (Milistments were largelv voting men and bovs, those of 1862 were generally older men, manv of them with wives and cliildren at liome. Tliis characteristic in tlie composition of the new Regiments indicates the growtii of sentiment as to the seriousness ot the struggle. It might be charged that there is a little of the love of adventure and a desire for glory, mingled with the patriotic ardor of the \()ung man, without domestic afliliations, who enlists in tlie army to tight his country's battles. But this * Was mustered in as Sergeant of Company A in Camp Gibson, and served his full term of enlistment with his Company. After his discharge from the army he returned to his farm near Oakland City. Indiana, where he has continued to reside. .\NDRKW Gl DGRL, SKRGK.\NT CO. A.* FIFTY-EIUHTH INDIANA KKUIMENT. 97 cannot be said of the man who will leave a wife and children. Pure and genuine patriotivsm is unquestionably the motive that prompts such sacrifice. These new Regiments were all well equipped, and in their bright new tiniforms they presented a great contrast to the veterans of Buell's army. We found many of our triends among the new recruits, particularly in the 8oth Indiana, a Regiment that had been organized in Camp Gibson, the first camp of the 58th. Some important changes in the organization of the army took place while we were at Louisville, which it will be well to note here : On the 29th of September, General Wm. Nelson, one of our most efiicient Division commanders, was killed at the Gait house by General Jefierson C. Davis, the result of a personal quarrel. This unfortunate event cast a gloom over the army for a time, but there were too many other exciting events transpiring tor this to obtain more than a passing notice, except among the immediate friends and associates of the parties. On the same day of this occurrence a general order was issued re-organizing the atmy into three grand divisions, to be known as the First, Second and Third Corps. They w^ere also called the Right Wing, Center and Left Wing. The First Corps, or Right Wing, was assigned to the command of Major-General A. D. McCook ; the Second Corps, or Left Wing, w^as commanded by Major- General Thomas L. Crittenden ; the Third Corps, or Center, was commanded by Major-General C. C. Gilbert. Major- General George H. Thomas was second in command under General Buell. In this organization the 58th was assigned to the First Brigade, First Division, Third Army Corps, or Left W^ing. Our Brigade was still commanded by General Has- call, and composed of the same Regiments as formerly, wnth the addition of the looth Illinois. CHAPTER IX. Louisvii.LE TO Nashville — Driving Bragg from Bards- town — Following Him Through Springfield — Long and Dusty Marches — Water Scarce — Bat- tle OF Perryville — Dilatory Movements — Blun- dering — Bragg, with his Booty, Escapes — Turning Toward Nashville — An October Snowstorm — Columbia — Glascow — Sil\'er Springs — Lookincj AFTER Morgan — Again at Nashville. THERE was great disappointment when the orders came to march, after we had been in Louisville less than four days. We had expected to get our pav and clothing while here, but our hopes were blasted. On the ist day of October we started again on our march in the direction of Bardstown. The part of the rebel army under Bragg was now concentrated at this place. Another large force was at Frankfort under General Kirby Smith. It was the purpose of General Buell to prevent these two armies from uniting, and he, therefore, sent a large portion of his army to Frank- fort to interest the rebels at that place while another part was dealing with Bragg at Bardstown. The first night alter leaving Louisville the 58th camjied on the same ground that they occupied on tiieir other trip this wav, the previous December. Starting from there earlv next morning we soon found that our progress was disputed by the rebels. A continual skirmish was kept up between our advance and the rebel cavalrv all that da\', but we kept driving them back. It was evident that Bragg was not going to give us the right of way if he could avoid it. FIFTY-EIGHTH INDIANA REtflMENT. 99 The third evening after we left Louisville we were \nsited by the paymaster and received our pay, the first we had received for four months. It was very inconvenient to take care of money situated as we then were, as there was little opportunitv for sending it home. Several attempted to do so and never heard of the remittance afterward. Others car- ried their money with them on the march and lost it in one way or another. In the march the following day the 15th Brigade was assigned to the advance of the army. We were skirmishing with the rebels all dav. Turning to the left of the main pike we moved along until, about the middle of the afternoon, we had reached a point a mile and a half from Bardstown, where we halted. It was important to know just what force of rebels were in our front, so the 58th Indiana, 26th Ohio and two sections of the 8th Indiana Battery, were sent for- ward as a reconnoitering partv. A portion of the 3d Ohio Cavalry was sent in advance of this party. We had pro- ceeded but a short distance when the report of sharp firing of carbines in our front was evidence that our cavalry had found the rebels. The two Regiments of infantry were hurriedly thrown into line of battle on each side of the road. While this movement was being executed the cavalry came flying back at a furious rate, which was their habit in emer- gencies of this kind. This sudden retrograde movement of the cavalry caused a good deal of excitement and confusion among the infantry, and prevented their formation into line for a time. Soon the artillery was in position and fired a few shots in the direction from which the cavalry fled. Skirmishers were thrown forward and the whole line advanced. The rebels were soon found, but the}- did not make a verv strong resistance. We found they were only the rear guard of Bragg' s retreating army, and they readily moved on when we charged upon them. As we entered the town on one road we could see the rebels making their exit in great haste on another. Bragg's main force had been gone several hours. We marched into town and went into 100 CHAl'LAlxN HKtHT'S HISTORY OF THE bivouac for the night. The 58th occupied the court house and served as provost guards that night. Next morning the other part of our army came up and passed on to the front, going in the direction of Springfield. About 10 o'clock General Wood's Division started on the march, leaving the 17th Indiana at Bardstown as provost guards. We camped that night on Beach Fork of Salt river, near the village of Lynchburg. Started late next morning, struck the Springfield pike and followed it to tliat place. The rebels had been driven from here by our advance several hours before our arrival. We camped again in th(^ fair ground, same place as on our tormer visit last winter. We remained iiere the next day and the next night, waiting tor orders. The roads were now literally blockaded with troops and wagons, so that it was difficult to get started and tedious marching after we did start. About noon of the second day we left our Springfield camp. We moved out on the Lebanon pike for a short distance then turned off to the left toward Dan- ville road. The march of that al'ternoon and the greater part of the night was 'one long to be remembered by those who participated in it. The road was very rough and very dusty. There was not a drop of water to be liad tor man or beast. About 11 o'clock tiiat night we reached the place where it had been designed to camp, only to find that no water could be had, so we had to go on. We turned off tiie road at Hayesville and went along a narrow by-road, follow- ing a dry creek bottom for about six or eight miles. It was move a little piece, then stop, then move on again. This jogging march continued all night, and many a worn out soldier fell b\' the wayside utterly (\\hausted, notwitiistantl- ing the stringent orders from the commanding General, read tlie previous evening, in regard to stragglers. About }, o'clock in the morning the welcome word came thai wati'r was found and we were going into cam]-). Our camping i->laci' was on Rolling Fork of Salt river, and we found an abundant supph' of water with which to quench FIFTY-EKjHTH INDIANA REGIMENT. 101 our thirst. After getting a drink tlie men piled down in every conceivable shape and were soon sound asleep. The sun had risen some time before our camp was astir next morning, and then we were only partially rested tVom the fatiguing march of the dav before. This morning, October 8, we learned that the enemv were in full force at Perr^'vilIe, eight miles from us, and that there was a strong probabilitv of a battle that dav. Colonel Fyffe, command- injjf our Briofade, visited each Retriment of his command, as they were drawn up in line preparatory to starting on the march. He made a brief address to each, urging the men to be courageous and faithful in the discharge of the trying duty to which thev were likely to be calk'd that day. He reminded them of the high honors alreadv achieved by the soldiers of their respective states and charged them with the duty of maintaining that high standard. Colonel Fyffe was answered with cheer upon cheer, indicating that the men of the old 15th Brigade, composed of soldiers from Indiana, Illinois, Ohio and Kentucky, were ready for any duty, and in the battle which was though.t to be impending, the\- would not be found wanting-. To our surprise we did not start at once towards Perr^-- ville, where the enem}^ was reported to be, but la^' at this camp until 12 o'clock, waiting orders from General Buell. Then, after starting we did not move rapidly, but made several long halts by the way. We did not reach the battle- tield until near sundown. The battle had been rasrincr since noon, with only McCook's Corps to withstand Bragg's entire army. It was an unequal contest but our men showed great valor and held their ground. To the private soldier it seemed a great bhmder that the rest of BuelFs armv was not brought into'this battle. There were thousands of troops within easy reach, enough to have crushed Bragg. We were thrown into line of battle about sundown. The battle was still raging tiercely off to our left, but thei-e was nothing but skirmish hring in our front. Soon after dark tlK> battle ceased, and there was comparative quiet during 102 CHAPLAIN HIGHT'S HISTORY OF THE the night. We slept on our arms in line of battle waiting- lor an attack. Early next morning we discovered tliat the enemy had taken advantage of the darkness to slip awav. Their dead and wounded were left on the field in great num- bers, showing that tlieir loss was severe, as was also our own. The Perryville battle seems to have been a mistake all around. It is said that Bragg made the attack thinking it was only a small force that he had to contend with. He had no idea that the greater part of Buell's armv was within easv reach. On the other side it was claimed that McCook undertook to make a reconnoissance and went too far, bring- ing on a general engagement. It is claimed tliat Buell had no information of the battle until after it had been raging- tor some time. The conduct of the commanding General in this battle was severely criticised, and there were a great man\' tlieories as to what might liave been the result it thincfs had been ordered ditlerentlv. I am inclined to a:! \ille we turned to tlie rio-ht and marched aljoul se\"en miles, when we went into camp in a beautiful walnut grove. We were in the tamous blue grass region now and found many line groves covered with this wonderful product of Kentucky soil. This is also the center of the richest agricultural sec- tion of the state and there are evidences of luxury and wealth on everv side. What a pit}' that this beautiful scen- er\' should be marred b\' the red hand of war. What a pity that a people who had such happy and comfortal'jle homes, and prosperous surroundings, should rise in rebellion against the government that had protected them, and thus invite the carnage and devastation of contending armies. Earlv next morning our pickets were attacked b}' Morgan's cavalrv. Thev were driven in and were closely followed bv the rebels who evidently expected to find our troops unprepared. But thev were mistaken. Part of the 58th had just returned from picket duty, on another part of the line, and w'as engaged making coi^'ee and preparing break- fast, when the rapid firing of our picket outpost indicated that there was trouble on hand. Coffee and cookinij- uten- sils were quickly abandoned. Even before the order to "fall in" was given our boys were getting their guns. In less than three minutes the line was t'ormed and readv for the charo-ino; column of cavalrv. In the meantime our bat- terv was taking position and soon opened out on our earlv morning visitors. This seemed to surprise them as the^- immediately turned and fled. It was learned afterward, that this attack was intended as a ruse to draw us on to a ]")lace where thev had some masked batteries in position to mow our columns down. After this sudden outbreak nothing else occurred during the dav to disturb the sei'enity of our camp. That night the entire Regiment went out on picket. Reports came in that evening that the rebels were in large force a short dis- tance from our camp and there was strong probability of an attack earlv next morning. This report, of course, was calculated to make us vitached fi-om our Bri- gade and afterwards became a part of a mounted infantry Brigade, commanded by Colonel J. T. Wilder. As this cani]^ James M. Smith, Lieutenant in L'ompanv K, was transtered to Company B and promoted Captain, there were also several promotions in otiier Companies and there was a general readjustment of afTairs all around. It FII'TY-KKJIITII INDIANA RK(ilMKNT IOI» was soon e\-ulcnt that a more thorouj^li orifani/ation and a stricter military discipline was lo be enforced nnder our new commander. Soon after our arrival in this camp we had our first i;'eneral review hv General Rosecrans. He rode down tlie line, followed In' his stafT, and inspired contidence in the soldiers by his fine military appearance and e\'ident determination to accomplish something- worthy of the great armv under him. We spent considerable time here drilling preparatory to an actiye campaign. Our clothing and camp equipage were looked after and we were soon able to pre- sent a respectai")le ap- pearance in this r(>gard. Moreover, we wcrt^ al- lowed full rations, a hix- ur\- of which we had been depri\-ed for mauA' months. x\t last (.>\-er\-thing was ready and the time to advance against l^ragg's army at Murfreesboro had comc\ December 26th, just one month from tht' tinn' of our arrival in this cam]i, u e started on oui' marcli to Murtreesboro. A\'e left all our tents, caniji equipage and wagons at Nashvilk\ excejit that c^ach Regiment was allowed one wagon to haul oflicers' bedding, cooking uten- sils and th(^ extra rations that t'ould not be carried by tin- men in their hayersacks. l)U . \\ . R. M MAIIAX, I.IKir. CO. K.* * Was mustered in at Cainp Ciibson as Ser-. Ind., heiiii; one ol" the progressive and enter]irisinL; citizens of that place. Dr. McMahan is N'ice- President of the Reii;iinenial .Xs.-ociation and an active member of this I'uh- iishin^ C'onunitlee. I 10 CIIAPLAIX HKiHT'S UlSTOh'V OK TIIK W c moved out on the Murtreesboro pike and il was not lonj^ until our advance came upon the rebel pickets. A lively skirmish began and continued all dav, but our forces kept driving the rebels back. A few hours alter we started it besfan to rain and continued the balance of the da^■. The hitherto dust\- pike v/as converted into a slopp^■ sea of mud, making our ]")rogress somewhat tedious and disagreeable. Hv nicrht we had reached Lavergne, a little village iust half v.av between Nashville and Murfreesboro. We bivouacked in the vicinity for the night, while the rebels still occupied the town. The 58th was thrown forward as an advance line and Companies A, B, D and F were deplo3^ed in front of the Regiment as skirmishers, occupying a position in a cedar forest, about a hundred yards from the rebel line. It was a position of danger and responsibility, and extreme caution and vigilance was necessary, A cold rain fell the greater part of the night, and, a.s we were not permitted to have tires, we were ver}' uncomtbrtable. We expected the rebels to make an attack at daylight and were wide awake, in line of battle waiting for them. But morning dawned and the enemy did not appear. About ten o'clock we were relieved trom picket duty and preparations were made to advance on the rebels, who still occupied the town. The}^ made their pr(\sence known by tiring a few shots from a battery posted in our front. At eleven o'clock our lines began to move, our Brigade being in advance, in the Ibllowing order : Fitty-eighth Indiana on the right, 26th Oliio on the left. The 3d Kentucky was the right and the looth Illinois the left of the second or reserve lini'. with the 8th Indiana Battery in the center. With Com- jianies A and B as skirmishers, the line emerged trom the woods and moved across the open iit^ld that lay between us and the town. To our surprise there was no resistance ol- h'vcd until we were half way across this lield. We began to think the rebels had lied. But when our skirmish line had advanced within about one iumdred yards of the town we formed a dillerent opinion. A few stray balls w hizzetl FIFTV-KKiHTll IXlilAXA JfFJi Hi KXT. Ill past our ears. This was the prehide to a murderous volley poured from the ranks of the waiting rebels. They were posted behind tenees, houses, trees, etc., and were hid tVom view. Oar skirmishers lay down and thus escaped much serious injurv from this vollev. We returned their fire and kept things prettv lix'eh- for awhile. Xothing was acconi- ]")lished b\' this, however, and after awhile our skirmish line was ordered to tix bavonets and charge, which they did in tine stvle. This movement invited a shower of balls from the rebels. Five men of the 58th were wounded in this charge, one or two seriously. We gained our point, how- ever, driving the rebels from the town and starting them in lull retreat towards Murfreesboro. A short distance beyond Lavergne the skirmishers were relieved bv Companies iVom the 3d Kentuckv and looth Illinois. From this on during the dav our advance was steady but not without considerable skirmishing at times. The country ^^•as broken and rockv, and in manv places covered with a ihick growth of cedar. This afforded the rear L^uard of the retreating rebels mauN' hiding places iVom which to fire on our advancing skirmishers. i)V the middle of the aftiMMioou the rain again began to come down in torrents, and con- tinued until near night. We were drenched to the skin but we kept right on, crowding close after the retreating rebels. About five o'clock we reached Stewart's Creek, about six miles from Murfreesboro. The rebels were in strong force on the opposite side of this creek, with several batteries posted on a ridge a few hundred ^'ards distant. As we came within range, these batteries opened tire and the rebel infantry along the creek joined in with a shower of lead. In the meantime, the detachment of cavalrv we had been fighting all da\' attempted to escape across the bridge, which had been tired bv the rebel skirmishers on the other side. Our advance line of skirmishers, composed of two Com- panies of the 3d Kentucky, seeing the bridge on fire, charged down ii]-)on the rebels and saved the bridge. In a few min- utes the i\'l")el ca\alr\- came leariu''' down to cross the bridjfe Ill' (IIAI'LAIN IIKillT'S IIIS'IOI.'V OK TIIK onh' to lind the\' were too late. The\' ran into a Compan\' ot'tlie looth Illinois skirmishers who c|uicklv took them in. Twentv-live prisoners, with their horses and equipments, were captured here. It was now dark, and as the force across tiie creek seemetl to be too strong for us to move, we went into camp in an old cotton field near hv. \\v had been marching and fighting for two days witliout a nigiits rest and we were all ready to take a rest. The next dny was Sunda\'. The clouds had passed awa\' and there had been quite a sharp freeze during the night. We remained in camp all da\' waiting for the other part ot the armv to get into position. The right wing under (xen- eral McCook. and the center under General Thomas, had been meeting with strong opposition and their progress was not as rapid as ours had been during the past two days. Pick(>t tiring in our trout was continiious all da^' Sundax . and occasionally there was an exchange of compliments by the batteries on each side of the creek. Everything indi- cated that we would have a general engagement here to- morrow. Monday morning- everything was in readiness for an ad- vance. After firing a few shells over into the rebel camp our column began to cross the creek. Skirmishers were deployed and began ascending the hill tollowed by the in- f;uitr\' and artilkny. The rebels did not stay to se*> it. Tlie\- immediately turned toward Murtreesboro. The coun- trv was mostly open from here on and our progress was more rapid than it had been among the cedars and rocks between Lavergne and Stewart's Creek. It was about the middle of the at'ternoon w^hen we reached Stone River, about two miles from MurtVet^sboro. We found the rebels in strong force here and our further progress was checked. That they were prepared to giye us battle at this place ad- mitted of no doubt. It was our business to get ready to meet them, and to this end the army of General Rosecrans was placed in position as fast as they arrived Monday even- ing. The v'^th turned to the left of the pike into a corn FIFTY-EIUHTH INDIANA EEGIMENT. 1 1 ;i liekl. Harker\s Brigade was still skirmishino- with tlic robi'ls in our tront. We bivouacked in front of a large frame house belonging to a man named Collins, our line facing Stone River. Soon after dark the order came to "fall in/' "We must go into Murfreesboro to-nigiit,' was the order. Accord- ingly our line was formed. Marker's Brigade in front, and started lor the crossing of Stone River. The night was terribly dark and the air was damp and chilh'. Ilarker's Brigade had got across Stone River and our Brigade was about to follow, when the enemv on the other side opened fire. It was toimd that a force of rebels under I>reck- inridge, 4,500 strong, was waiting tor us on tlie other side, and we abandoned our undertaking. Harker recrossed with his Brigade and we all returned to our camp. For some unexplained reason tiie batteries of the rebels, posted within 200 yards on an opposite hill, were silent while all ihis maneuvering of ours was g(nng on. On Tuesda}' morning our Regiment was observed h\ the enemy across the river. A heav^• Mre of artiller\' was o]:)ened by them on Collins' house, causing us to change our jiosi- tion a little to the right. l"he rebel guns were soon silenced by tlie loth Indiana ])atter\-. All dnx there was cannonad- ing on our right where McCook was getting into position. At lour o'clock the 5Sth was sent out on picket, being ]iosted along tlie bank ot Stone River, near Widow MurtVees iu)use, coveriniT a crossing- known as Murfree's lord. Din- ing the night some of our men were sent across the ri\-er on a scouting expedition. The\' came back reporting that some mysterious movements were going on among the rebels. A large force of their infantr\' and artiller-\- a]")]X'are(l to be movin(r towards our riofht. With this excejition e\'ervthing witli us and in our iVont was exceedingly quiet. Away otfto tlie right, however, we could hear the noise of moving artillerv and wagons, and occasionally some picket tiring. The sound of axes wielded by the Pioneer Corjis broke tlie stillness ol'tlie night. "i'he\- in- ( IIAI'LAIN IIICiHT'S IIISTOKY OF THK were cuuinu; out roads throui^h the cedar forest to enable the artiller}^, ambulances and ammunition wagons, to get through. jVIcCook and Thomas were getting into position ready for the battle that now^ seemed inevitable. The plan of attack by General Rosecrans was for McCook to open the engagement bv assaulting the rebel forces under Hardee in his tVont. Thomas was to attack the forces under Polk in his front or assist McCook, as the exigenc^' of the case might require. This movement of our riglit and center was intended as a strateo^etic means of drawin"' the attention of the enemy in that direction, while Crittenden was moving against the rebel right under Breckinridge. It w'as our bus- iness, as a part of the left wang, to furiously assault the rebels in our front and drive them back on the town and thus gain the rear of Bragg's army. This was a. fine strate- getic scheme, and would have no doubt worked successfully had not Bragg decided upon a plan of battle for his side that was very similar to ours, and put his plan into ojieration fu'st. Wednesday morning, December 31st, opened bright and clear. About sunrise our ears were <£reeted with the sounds of heavv musketrv and artillery tiring on our right. It was evident the ball had opened. By this time Van Cleve's Di- vision, of Crittenden's command, was in motion, crossing Stone River at Murfree's ford. The 58th w'as ordered back to join the Division, W'hich was to follow Van Cle\e. Ilarker's Brigade was in the advance of Wood's Division, and was nearly all across the river when our movement was arrested by news of disaster on the right. A tierce battU- had been raging there for aliout two hours, and ti-om ihe sound it was evidently getting nearer. Could it be jjossible that our lines were giving w'a\'? This c|uesli()n was soon iinswered to our mortitication and sorrow in the atlirnialix'e. Inlying couriers brought the news that the right of our army was broken and was being driven back. Orderlies were soon speeding across the held carrying orders from head- (juarters to the xarious subordinate commands. lC\erylhing indicated that the condition of thin ical. Tlic field in the rear of our line, where all was quiet a short time betbre, was suddenly turned into a scene of wild- est confusion. Shot and shell tVom the rebel batteries were plowino- up the ijfroimd all around us, and wagons, teams, ambulances, etc., were flying- about seeking places of safety. The usual complement of camp followers were panic stricken and were making iVantic efforts to get out of reach of the enemy's shells. Our orders for crossing the river were countermanded, and we were turned face about and sent to the support of the right and center. Harker's Brigade w^as the tirst to get in- to action. Our Brigade w'as moyed back into the open held and changed front several times. Meanwdiile the conflict increased in fury and the victorious enemy was graduall}' crowding oiu" troops back. We cotdd not see them, lor the battle was still hid by the cedar tbrest. But we could hear the defiant "rebel yell" as they charged upon our retreating columns. The stragglers and w^junded were hurrying past us to the rear. Their accotnit of the disaster in the woods was exaggerated, no doubt, but it was certainly very dis- lieartening. The men in our ranks were becoming uneasy and demoralized on account of the confusion, and because of our chang-incr front so many times. By this time we were almost entirely surrounded and the rebel shells were coming from every direction. A torce of Wheeler's Cavalry had o-ot in our rear, destrovinjif a wafjon train and a larije amount of supplies. Our hospital at Collins house was also captured and a number of the 58th who were there were taken pris- oners. Among this number was Dr. Holtzman, Assistant Surgeon, and R. M. Tvluntbrd, Hospital Steward. Our sit- uation just at this time was serious indeed. Unless some- thing could be done soon to check the rebel hosts our cause was lost, we would either be captiu'ed or be made to turn back to Nashville in a humilating retreat. Although the 58th had been under fire for two hours or more there had not been a gun fired by the Regiment up to this time. I?ut our opportimitv was at hand. The sun was 1 Hi ( IIAI'LAIN HKiHT'S TUSTOl.'Y OF TH K about at meridian and \'ictorv and defeat were hansfinj'- in the balance when our Reij^iment was ordered to take a posi- tion in line across the raih"oad to relieve the 3d Kentuck\', that liad jirevioush' Ix-en sent tVoni our Brigade and had ex- hausted their suppi\' ot amnumition.* Amid the deafening roar ot" battle, witli sixt\' roimds of cartridges, eacli, the 58th went l:)ravelv into the fight. Passing through a skirt of tim- bei" we came to the railroad embankment where tlie line was halted. This embankment served as an excellent line ol" breastworks and we began to think ourselves fortunate in getting a chance at tiie rebels iVom behind this iortihcation. But our telicit\' was ol sh(M-t duration. The c-omtuanding General thought our line was not in the right ])osition to do the most effective service and he directed Col. liuell to mo\e across the railroad and take a position bet\^'een that and tlie Pike. There had been a lull in the storm tor a few minutes but about the time our Regiment was to execute this order the shower of leaden hail was increased. It took nerve to climb that embankment in the tace ot this, but the men of the 58th did it. They quickly took the position assigned them, the k'll of the Regiment resting on the railroad, the riglit cxli-nding out at an angle ol about torlN-fixx' degri'es. L'omjianv A, on thi- right, was thus pUu'ed near a corn cnh * Kxlract tVm the woods aiul o\er the liill, and were mo\in;4 ujion us aj^ain in splendid s1\le arul in immense t"i>rce. FTFTV-i:i(;HTH INDIANA I^ECUMKNT. 117 owned bv a man named Jerald. This corn cril) was ratiu-r a fatal shelter because the enemy directed their lire more uenerally to that building. Company B, on the left wing, was slightly protected by a few scattering trees. The rebels had now advanced to the edi^e of a thick woods in our tront, not more than one hundred yards distant across an open tield. The\' were sheltered behind trees, from which they poured a galling tire of musketry. From Cow- an's brick house, otTto our left, they opened a heavy fire of grape and canister. From 1,he hills beyond Stone River I^reckinridge's batteries poured in a destructive fire. But the 58th held its position amid all this murderous lire. The men were lying Hat on the ground and were loading and lir- ing at will. Twice the enemy left the woods in our front and started on a charge across the open tield, but thcN- could not stand against the shower of lead thai \\ as jioured into their ranks. Alter a time tiiere was almost a cessation of tiring and we were beginning to breathe easier. But still we were apprehensive that this was onh' the lull before the storm, and our apprehensions were well founded. The tr\'- ing ordeal was yet to come. While we were watchinr's Brigade, which had been in reserve, was sent on double quick to meet them and strengthen our left. The moxi' was made none to soon. With a demoniacal yell that might raise the dead, the rebel lines emerged tVom the woods in our front and advanced upon us. At the same time they were coming in solid phalanx along the pike on our let't. On tlu'\- came in steady column, notwithstanding the murderous lire tVom our ranks. We could see their men falling like leaves, but the broken ranks were tilled and they held their ground with a heroism worthy of a better cause. At last the\- iiad to yield, but the}' retired in good order, leaying their dead on tlie tield. Seyeral of their men, however, were satistied with their experience tluis far and deserted the ranks at this lir, CHAPLAIN HKUIT'S HISTOI.'Y OK TIIK iuncture. When the tiring was hottest they fell upon the ground, ancl when the rebel force fell back these men skipped across to our lines and surrendered. One of these deserters came to our Regiment carrying an old blanket, that had once been white, as a flag of truce. It was probably cowardice more than lovaltv to the Union that prompted these men to come over to our lines at this time. The rebels had failed aufain to move our lines but it was not certain that thev would give it up yet. Indeed there v^^ere indications that they would come again with stronger force. We were ready for them. Just at this time General Rosecrans came up to the 58th, mounted and alone, the nearest man to the cnem}^ on horseback. Taking position about the center of the Regiment he called ''attention." He said : 'T want you to let them come up in about forty yards of vou, then lix bavonets, give them a vollev of lead and and charore them with a veil. If vou will do this vou will gain the battle." As he ceased to speak the enemv advanced in stronger force than ever. Thev seemed to be tive columns deep. They marched up in good order with lines dressed and col- ors flving. The commands of the rebel officers could be dis- distinctly heard. Thev came up within seventy-live yards and began tiring as thev advanced. Our men reserved their tire until the rebels came within litU' \ards when tlu'\- oj-)ened out. Tlie rebels lav tlown and thus escaped serious results Irom our vollev. In a tow moments the\' were ordered to rise and '•charge that brass batterv," referring to the 8th Indiana Batter\- of our Brigade, which was posted in our rear and to the right. The\' started on this mission atliM" poiu'ing a vol- k'\' into our ranks. Thev did not acUance hir until the\' were compelled to hall. At this time they were getting two pieces of artiller\- in position on our lelt to rake our line. This movemcMit was quickl\- discovered and our men poured a (U-adh' \'olle\' into them while our batteries gave them double charges ot' gra]:)e and canister. The horses at the FIFTV-EKiHTir INDIANA lJK(ilMKNT. 110 two guns above named were instantly killed, and tli',> guns did not fire a shot. Thus thwarted in every attempt to break our line the enenu- retired in great confusion Irom this charge. This was the liigh tide of that da\\s battle antl it was the fortune of the 58th to hold the key point against th',' repeated charges of the flower of Bragg's army. Bragg iv\- egraplied Jeff Davis at the close of the tiglit that day that he liad 1)een successtul in breakincr the lines of Rosecrans' arm\- at everv point except at the "Round Forest/' — the position held bv our Regiment and other Regiments of Woods' Division. Because of their failure to carry this point Braggs' forces were prevented from achieving a complete victorv in that day's battle. "^ About liall-past three o'clock the 58th was relieved and moved back a short distance to the rear to replenish their cartridge boxes, having used up their sixty rounds during the four hours' engagement. A short time after this the musketr^' tiring practicallv ceased, but the artillery tiring continued until alter dark, and at intervals through the ni() CHAI'LAIX UKrHT'S HISTOKY OK THK calls for iVitnuls and for lu'lp, hut we could nol render an\' assistance. Such experience is horrihle and heartrend- ing, but such is war. There was much sutferino- that niglit also to the soldiers wli ) had passed through the battle unhurt. We were with- out blankets and could not be permitted to have lires, and weri' also short on rations, as the most of our supplies had been captured and destro\'ed b\' the rebels during tlie da\-. The 58th was on the iVont line again that night. We weri' in tlvj edgj of the little belt of timber across the railroad from where we had done our tighting tluring the tla\'. Nothing occurred to disturb the condition of things during the niijfht ; both sides were tired enoucfh to rest on their arms and remain quiet. About four o'clock in the morning we were relieved and moved back to the rear. Xew Year morning, 186^-;, was a bright and Ix'autiful beginning tor another ^•ear. The sun rose in majestic splendor, shedding its light upon all arountl. I'pon this lield ot battle the light revealed a scene ot' lion'or. It was covered with dead and dN'ing and with wrecks, and witli all the e\ idences ot a tremendous sanguinar\ contlict ot braxi- men. It also n'\-ealed great armies ot" men in battle lint." waiting to renew the c-onllict. And the waiting was not long. Soon alter sunrise there was a rapid increase in the llu' IJiii^acii's f)!' (ieneral Preston and Colonol I'alnu'i. hail poinliHl out to tlifin the particular object to i)e aicoinplished. to- w it, to dri\ e the eneniN's lel't, and especialh' to dislodije him tVoni iiis position in tiie Round Forest. L' nt'ortunateh the opjiortune moment tor jiuttini;; in tliese detaihments had passed. '"CouKl the\' ha\e heen thrown u]Min the eni'm\'s lell inimediattiv alter Chalmers' and l)oneNon'> assaults, in (juiik suiie->^ion, the extraordinarv sirenijtli of his position would has'e avaik'd him nothiuij;. That jioint would ]ia\e heen carried, and his left heen liriven hack on his panic-stricken rii;hl, would have conipleled his confusion and insured an utter rout. It was, how- ever, otherwise, and the time lost between Donelson's attack and the coniin masked batteries which we had in p()siti(>n. Tht.- ruse was successful. On tluw i"ame \ellino; like savaif*^'^ alter otu" retreatinir cavalrv. It was rare fun to see them nm. the\- no doubt were thinkini^;. but the fun was not so rare when, alter the rebels had emero-ed trom the woods, three of oin" liatteries opened u]i on thiMii with chmble charo-es ot Li;rape and canister. The enem\- was literalh' mown down b\- tliis murderous Hre, and wert' onh- too o-lad to return a^'ain to the shelter of the timber, leaving; their dead and woimded In'hind. This fierce onset, which at fu'st appeared to foreshadow a rvMiewal of the general engagement, was probablv onh' in- tended bv tiie rebels as a feeler to see wdiether Rosecrans' army was still there or w^hether it was on the retreat to Nashville. At any rate, the rebels were satisfied with the information gained bv this earlv morning sortie. With the exception of skirmish firing, whicli contintied all da\', amounting at times almost to a regular engagement, nothing ol importance occurred during Thursdav. The 58lh re- mained in the same position tluw h(,dd in the morning, a short distance in the rear of the front line, near the turn- pike. At night we built fires and prepared coflee. We were told that we would be permitted to rest that night. This was welcome news, as we had been in front for the past forty-eight hours without a chance for sleep or rest. The boys were soon fixed in as comfortable beds as the circumstances wotild allow, and were sleeping in utter dis- regard of all about them. But it would have been contrar\- to all military rule for tliis kind of enjovment to last, so far as the 58tli had experience with tliis rule. About eiglit o'clock 121' CIlAri-AIX IlKiliT'S lllSTOlfY OK TIIM we \v(N'o arousod. bv an ordorh', from our dreams. A\'e wore told to pack knapsacks and f^et in readiness to march imme- diately and without any noise. This was an exceedingly disagreeable order, but there was a general beliet' that it was necessary and it was a soldier's dutv to obey without grum- bling. We were soon in line and moved out alter oiu" com- mander, not yet knowing whither we were going. Alter a little march we knew what it w^as all for — we were to relieve the Pioneer Brigade, who were on f)utpost duty on the right ot the Murfreesboro pike. Our coming was a great gratifi- cation to them, as thev had been in the front forty-eight hours. We were, however, not in any better condition in that regard. A line of skirmishers was advanced and the rest of the Regiment lay dovv^i upon their arms for th(^ remainder of the night. January 2. — Shortly at"ter dawn of day our skirmishers and the rebel sharpshooters became engaged in a sharp fight, which for a time indicated a general engagement, but they soon quieted down again. A short time after sunrise this morning occurred an artiller^^ duel that was unequaled by anything in that line heretofore. The enemy had repeat- edly been makinp- some demonstrations in our front since daylight. They had been Hring random shots from a com- manding position immediately in front of Loomis' Ixittery, posted on tin* left of the turnpike, and Mstep's 8th Indiana Battery on the right of the pike and to the left of the 58tli. These shots were responded to b}- our Batteries w hich also tired vigorously at the hiding places of the rebcd sliarpshool- ers, who were very annoying. Suddenly tlie small skirl ot woods, about 400 yards in our front, was enveloped in a dense clone! of smoke, and the air was tilled with deadly missiles, hurled from the rebel batteries, which had lieen massed there during tlie preceding night. It was now apparent that they had been deco>-ing a fire iVom our bat- teries until the^• got the range, and then they opened tire with a territic \-olle\-. ^Fhe elfecl uj")on our batteries was terribk'. Tlie ginis from Loomis' and Estep's batteries FIFTV-KKiliTH IXIMANA h'Kii I M KNT. 12.'5 roplit'cl vijj^orouslv to the murderous \•()lle^', but thrir position was too much exposed and they had to retire. Tliey moviul back behind the crest ot" a little knoll with considerable loss. Estep lost one man, killed, and several wounded, also the killing and disabling of nearly one-half of his horses, so tliat he was compelled lo lea\'e man\- of iiis guns on the lield. These were subsequenth- taken oil" b\- th'> men, [\r: 58th assistintjf in the work. Loomis also sustained a heavy loss, but was successtal in retirino- with his n-uns. Otlier batteries were sent to their support, and Loomis again took a position in the rear of the 58th, who were lying down. A simultaneous volley was sent from three batteries behind us. For about half an hour the exchange of shot between the contending artillery passed over our Regiment, making the very earth shake and quiver. Likewise the boys of the 58th, who were hugging the earth for dear life. The screaming and roaring of shot and shell was terrible. To add to this horror a rammer from one of the guns behind us was sent hurling toward the rebels, but it broke in twain and one piece landed on either flank of our Regiment. It was a very uncomfortable situation to be in, but it did not last lono-. The work of our batteries soon eftectually silenced the rebels and they ceased firing. One man of the 58th was wounded by a shell during this engage- ment. Picket firing was kept up during tin' f,)renoon. the sharp- shooters of the enemy being especially bold at times. Tliey woidd advance in tull view of our lines, and were several times repulsed and driven back. One old building in our front was occupied by the enemy's sharpshooters who were very troublesome. The^• were expert marksmen and they sent their shots dangerously close to the head of every man in sij^ht. Loomis sent one of his Parrett ijuns forward and trained it upon the old house. The first shot exploded a shell in the house and the rebel sharpshoot^^rs troubled us no more from that place. Tint there were several posted in trees along their tront and they were in good positions to 12-1. CHAIM-AIX lIKillT'S IllSTOl.'V OF TllK ]-)ick oil' our men. The h{)\s of our RogimiMit soon lound that it was exceedinglv dangerous to raise a head, and spent the day lying flat upon the cold damp ground. 'i'hus events continued until about three o'clock in the atiernoon. when it became evident from the increasing heav\' skirmishing o\'er on oiu^ left that the enem^■ were contem- plating an assaidt upon our lett wing. About tour o" clock \nn Cleves Division, which was in jiosition across Stone River to our left, was suddenh- and furiously attacked b\' Breckinridge. vSo tierce was the assault that oiu" troops were driven back to the river. Other troops were sent li'om the center to suppcnn \ an Cleve. and as soon as they could get across the river the n'bel advance was checked. Our artiller\- posted on this side of the rivc>r aho aided in the work and assisted in dri\ing the I'ebels back. While the Ixittle was still raging, \\'o<)d"s Dixision (now under command of General Hascall. on account of the dis- abling of (xeneral Wood in ihv tirst da\"s battle,) was ordertnl to cross the river. TUv 5uell. Lieutenant- Colonel iMidiree was now in command ot' the Reginu'nt. W^e crossed the river and took )")osition in line on the lell, relieving troops that had sustained severe loss in the fight. By this time it was (|uite dark and the tiring soon after ceased. Again the 58th was placed on the trout line which we held that night. Saturday, January 3. — T'his morning we had one box of crackers for the Regiment. Colonel Endiree passt'd along the line telling tiie bo\'s that this was all that could be liad, but begged them to bear up and be coiu-ageous tor awhile longer, when xictorv and jilentx' ot i^alions would be ours. Allliough the bo\s WH're well idgii worn out with tatigiu- and hunger, \c\ tlu'\- ri'spondinl to this appeal with c!i(H>rs, iiidicating that tlu'\- could be relied on to sta\' with the light until the linish. fifty-ei(;htii india.na in:(iiMKXT. 12; This morning- some ot" our skirmishers discovered an old lo<^ house, about mid\va\- between the lines, in which there was stored a (|uantitv of tVesh meat. Our appetite was so whet- ted b\- this discover\- that, without any orders, we charged on the house and held the rebels at bay while we supplied our- selves. Bullets were whistlino- about oiu^ ears in a \ ery livelv fashion while we were on this expedition, but we did not mind a little thing like that, when there was a chance ol getting all the tresh salted pork we could carry otY. It was an interesting sight to sei' the boys, each with a sidt> ot bacon oi- a ham on his bayonet, skipping across the open held while the rebel bullets were cutting on all sides. But •5,-,^ we obtained J^lent^' of pork to eat with our crackers, notwithstanding. The da^' passed without anything more serious than skirmish fighting. It rained nearh' all (Ia\-. and at night the river was running last, tiu-eatening to become unfordable. It was teared b\- General Crittenden, that the rebels might take advantage of the isolated ]iosition of the left wing and attack us that night, in which case we would be in a critical situation. So we were aroused abovit twelve o'clock and began recrossing Stone River. We had to wade the swift running stream vip to our waists and were in great danger of losing our footing and going down stream. About two o'clock a. m. we arrived at a position near Gen«- eral Rosecrans' headquarters, about a mile in rear of our tVont line. We were thoroughh- wet and covered with mud. but we were now where we could build tires and were not long in availing ourselves of the privilege of drving oiu" clothes and warming our thoroughlv chilled bodies. JOIIX M. SToRMOXT, Company B. * Mustered in at Camp Gibson; re-enlisted in 1S64 and served until the close ot" the war, beinij mustered out July 21, 1865. as Corporal. Since the war his principal avocation has been farming, in which he has been success- ful. He is now living on his farm near Princeton, Indiana, and i-- an active member <>f \\\\^ P\ihlisliinir C'omniittre. 126 CHAPLAIX HIGHT'S HTSTOKY OF THE Sunday. Jamakv 4. — It was a bright ; i:n that shed its ravs upon the field ot Stone River this morning, but the sun was an hour or more on its way betore the 58th was conscious of its appearance and movements. P^vervthing was strangclv quiet along our tront this Sabbath morning, and we wondered at it. The explanation soon came. The rebels had evacu- ated Murlreesboro last night and l^ragg's arm\- was now in tuU retreat. The reception ot^ this news was the signal tor hearty cheers and the wildest demonstrations ot" jov bv our men. After a long struggle the victorv was ours. It was a day of rejoicing all over the loyal part of the country because of this victorv of Rosecrans' armv. But the rejoicing was tinged with sorrow, on accovml of the noble lives that had been sacrificed to gain this victorA. The casualties of the 5Sth in this battle are as follows: LIST OF KILLED ANJ) WOUXDEl). COMPAXr A. Kii-LEi) — Serircant William McGarv. rri\atos: Elias Skclton. Joscpli Reavis, Alfred H. Enclicott. Alfred Traftser, James B. Drvsdale, Georj^e Hurclifield. WouNi)r;r) — Lieutenant and Regimental Adjutant, (."lias. C. Wiiitiuij;: Corporal Abner M. Bryant. Privates: Joseph N. Davis, George Willis. Wylie Knowles, Jesse Knovvlcs, John Crow, Moses C. Witherspoon. S\l- vester Minnis, Stephen \'. \\\\\ . William '1". \\'ithersji()()n. Henr\- Beek. Cieorge Iluteliinson. COM PAS )' B. Kii.LKi) — Pri\ate Joim \'an\\'a.;i;ner. • Wounded — Corporal R. M. Lueas. Privates: Knocii Lowe. Robert Parker, John M. .Stormont, R. D. Smith, John R. Sprowl, John Ilediicks, John Baldwin, James Coehran, Green B. Yeagtr. W. L. Sprowl. P.. A. fyowrv, Daniel Rea\is (at Lavergne), Jesse \\'a!ki'r. James \\'. Curry, (taken prisoner and died in prison). CUM I' AX )' C. Kri.i.i'.i) — Privates: James Hall, ilenry Trusty. Sebeiii Roberls, Rolurt Chew. CJeorge W. Ah is. David II oak. WorxDED — Captain W. A, Dow nc\ , Orderlv Sergeant P. N. Spain; Corporals John Johnson, Simpson Dve, Lzekiel lladloek. Privates: llai- rison 'I'. Wright. Albert R. Woods, J, (;. Crosi.r, John V. I'liillips FIFTY-EKiHTH INDIANA RECJIMENT. ll'7 COMPANl' D. Killed — Private: Henry Curl, Abraham Jones. Wounded — Captain (ieorge Whitman; Sergeant;^ N\'. A. Muiiford, Willis M. Coleman. David J. Davis, D. C. Barrett. Privates: Thomas Duncan, Leander Christmas, Johnson Wheeler, James Anderson, Daniel \'an Winkle. James Cunningham, Alexander II. Cockrum, John Xorrick. COMPANY E. Killed — Lieutenant P'rancis B. Blackford. W(nxnED — Captain A. II. Alexander, Orderly Sergeant John P. Nor- man. Privates: Elijah A. Black, Zach. Pierce, Sam'l Hunt, Harbin Hughes. COM PAX r F. Killed — Private Henry McCoy. Wounded — Orderly Sergeant Lycurgus C. Mason; Sergeants Hugh J. P>arnelt, Isaac A. Hopkins; Corporal John W. Emmerson. Privates: John Brownlee, Leander Cle\cland, William T. Sanders, John Richardson, Rob- ert R. Honeycut. COMPANY G. Killed — Private Noah Miller. Wounded — Sergeant Robert J. Brown. Privates: Henry Brenton, John A. Borders, Perry Amos, Milton Holder. Harrison Whaley. COMPANY //. Killed — Corporal John II. Groves. Privates: Joseph L. Newman. Andrew Cunningham. Wounded — Corporal James Woods, Lieutenant William Adams. Pri- vate ^^'illiam Kendall. COMPANY I. Killed — Corporals .Mexander W. McDonald. George W. Ent. l'ri\ate Franklin Twitty. Wounded — Corporals Cieorge Van, George W. Martin, VanBuren Mead; Sergeant W. L. Shower. Privates: Josiah Miley, W. Doads, Lewis Stallings, Joab Mead, Samuel E. Blair, Francis M. Smith, Geo. Williamson. COMPANY K. Killed — Privates: Alfred Goodman, Alfred Noe. Wounded — Color Sergeant Jesse B. Miller; Sergeants Jolm ^V. Pace. George W. Wilder. Privates: William Young, James Bohanan. TO TA L CA S UA L TIES. Total etfecti\c force, officers and men, of the Regiment engaged in the battle. 410. Killed and ;uortally wounded. ._ 27 Wounded and discharged .. i ;; Other wounded 7.1 Prisoners. G Total ..i>j CHAPTER XI Ix Camp at Miki-reksboro — Rkor(;axiza'itc>n of the .\raiv — Drill, Picket Dltv and Fora(;in(; — Exjov- ixG Camp Life — A Military Executiox — Closj^ Call for a 58T11 Deserter — Aim^eal of 'imie Offi- cers Pre\'Ails — Pardoxp:]) uv the Pkesioexp — Plans for a Ri:(;imextal ?*1oximi:xt Pickfixtei). 1 V 1 in fii"st da\"s tijL;"hl and had been paroled h\ the rebels. A\'e jiassiMl ihi'ono-h the town and took up our old position on the letl. Dt'tails \\(^re sent out over the battletield to bur\- the death 'I'he PioncHM- Bricrade was set to work to n^jiair llu> railroad brido'e aeross Stone Ri\er, so that supplies mio-ht l-)e brouij^ht iVom \ash- \-i11e. It was ascertained that Bra^'g's arm\- had n-tired to Talhih tail and Shelbvville, but th > road> w.M'e bid. and th.^ ditlieult\- of (^-etlinj;- supplies made it imjiracticable tor our arm\- to follow them. 80 we settled down to t-amp lit'e.and bciran recruit in<»- oiu" depletcnl ranks. In obedience to orders from the Wdv De]-)artmvMU . a i^en- eral reorganization of the arm\' took place at this time. What was formerlv kntnvn as the "Lith Army Corjis" was chan<^ed to "The Department of the CumbtM"laml,"' or was more oHMieralh' calUnl the Army of the Cumln'rland. The three irrand divisions of lliis armv, luMH>totori> desiofnated as the Ri now desiir- nated as the 20th Corps, 14th Corjis, and 21st Corjis, com- FrFTV-KKiirni IXDIAW IJKCilMKX'l'. IL",) niaiuled respectiveh' b\' (jcnerals IVIcCook, Thoma.s aiul Crittenden. The se\-eral l)i\isions and Brigades in each Coi'jis were also numbered ditlerenth', the number beginning at one in each case. According to this new arrangement the I)i\ isions and JJrigades in the 2ist Corps, commandeil bN- (General Critli-'nden, were numl>ered as lollows: I'^irst I)i\ision ( tormerh' Olh) commanded b\- Cieneral Wood. Second Division (lormerh- _}.th) commanded 1")\- General Palmer. 'I'hird Di\ision (t'ormei-h- 5th) commanded b\- (ieneral \'an Clex'e. Th'.' Brigades ol ilie First Dixision were numbered as t'ol- lows : First lirigade. (lormerlv 15th) in whicii was the 5Sth, commanded b\- Ct)lonel F\-tle (vice Ilascall.) Second Brigade (lormerlv 2 1st), commanded h\ General \\ agner. Third I>rigade ( lormcM'h' 20th. commanded b\- General Cjrartield), commanded b\- Colonel Ilarker. Rosecrans" arnu' took position in tVont ot the town, with the right ;nul left wings thrown considerably to the rear, almost completing the torm of a semi-circle. General McCook occupied the position near the Shelbxville and Salem pikes : General Thomas tVonting eastward tow ;ird McMinnville and Tullaboma ; General Crittenden took a posi- tion near the Liberty pike facing ea>t. The left of General Wooers Division rested on tlie Lebanon pike. General \'an Cleve being on the left of the jiike, connecting with Woods lefi. Our Brigade (the First) was on the left of Wood's Division, and was tiieret'ore located near the Lebanon \V\kv. Pickets were thrown well to the tVont, with strong i-a\alr\- videttes on the pike. A line of breastworks was tin-own up along the entire Ironl, so tliat we might be in a condition to resist an attack, ot which tiiere was some apjirehension. Alter we were settled down in our regular camp, where everything was kept clean and healthful, we began to 180 CHAIM.AIN 1II(;HT'S HiSTOia OK Till-: take on new lite. Those ot our Regiment who had been sick or convalescent rapidly improved. The spirits of the men became more bouyant than ever. With the opening of spring the improvement of the men became still more marked. The camp was full of life. There was a great deal of jov and hilarity prevalent, and much amusement indulged in. But it was not all frivolity and profitless pas- time that occupied the men of the 58th. Many of them emploved the time in learning to read and write, having been denied these educational advantages at home. Strange as it mav seem, there was a large number of men in all Regi- ments who could not write their own letters, nor read those receiv^ed from loved ones at home. Until the^' became sol- diers and were separated from home and friends, these men had not known the need of this acquirement. Now they knew the lack of an education, to their sorrow. So it was that when an opportiinil\' was aflbrded them at this camp, to learn to write and read writing, nearly all availed themselves of it. Instruction was given regiilarh^ bv the Chaplain and a number of members of the Regiment, who had the ability to do so. The consequence was, that when the Regi- ment left that camp there was scarcelv an\- who could not write and read his own letters. We spent a great deal of time drilling while here. We also had some foraging to do. This was no small business, either. It was necessarv to go manv miles alter forage, and then there was danger of a conflict with the numerous bands ot rebel cavalrv that were hoverin CllAlM.AIN HKiMT'S HISTOIJV OF I'lii; linn' was spent in pra\(.T — the j')ris()ner kneelinj^' oxer his eoHhi. lie was then seated on it ; one took a w hite hand- kerchief and phiced it over his eves. He manifested no agitation. The ceremonies were ver^' solemn. Many turned their eyes down the pike, li()):)ini^ some messenger would come, bringing a pardon, but none came. Ma}' w'e hope that a message of pardon from a better land, came in answer to his praver. The pall bearers and all left the prisoner sitting on his coffin. Tlie signal was given. One gun tired. It seemed to have missed him. Then two tired. He fell over his coffin. Tlien they all tired, irregularly. The tiring was most shocking ; all should ha\'e tired at once. The poor fellow died without a struggle. The Division marched past him. He was then placed in his cotTm. A hole was dug. Wher(> he died, he was buried. l^hiis pavssed one himian b(.>ing troni earthlv st-enes. His crime wa.s desertion. "^rhree citizens were hung not tar tVom our camp hv order of (leneral Rosecrans. Thev were guilt\' of the murder ol an old citizen near the town, some time prior to oiu" coming. Several of otu* Regiment went to see the exectition, which was in an open tield in lull view ot the camps. The ^Sth had se\-eral tard\' deserters who were court mar- tialed here, and subjected to variotis kinds ot punishment, but onlv one who was sentenced to be shot. Richard Hem- bree, of Companx' K. was that untortunale one. His sen- tence was read to liim about ii o'clock, Sunda}', June 21 : the execution was to take jilace between twelve and three o'clock, Monda\'. Tiie aniu)uncement ol this sentence created great consternation among oflicers and men. It is safe to sav that no event occurred during our entire service tip to this time, that stirred the sympathies and teel- ings of the men so nuu'h as did this announcement, thai came so suddenlv and unexpectedly. Becatise ol this teel- iniT, and the imivei'sal interest that the incident e.xcited at the time, is a suflicient justitication for giving the full details here. fifty-ki(;htii Indiana iJE(iniKNT. i.!:; Following- is ;i c )]')V of the oOicial dociinu'iU lluU was handed lo Adjutanl C C. Whiting by an orderly iVoin Division Ileadqnarters, about ten o'cdock ot the day men- tioned : lIlCAUcy^ ARTKRS DEPARTMENT OF THE CUMBERLAND. / Ml RFREESBORo, Tenn., June gth, 1863. ) General Orders / No. 137. \ I. At a general court martial, which con\ened at MiirtVeesboro, Tenn.. on the first day of May. 1S63, pursuant to Special Orders No. 38, from head- quarters 1st Division, 21st Armv Corps, Department of the Cumberland, and of which Lieutenant-Colonel R. C. Brown. 46th Rejriment O. \". 1.. i^ jires- ident, was arraigned and tried. 1st, Richard llembreo, a private of Company E, s^th Rcgimenl huii.ma \'olunteer Int'antr\-, on the tbilow iiig charge and specification: Charge, desertion. Specification. — In this, that private Richani llenihrec, of Company \i, 5Sth Regiment Indiana \'olunteer Infantry, licing duly enlisted in the serv- ice of the l.'nited States, did desert the service of the L'nited States. Ids said Company and Regiment then and there being in constant expectation of bat- tle; all this near Perryville, K\-., on or about the seventh day ot" Octolxr, iS6j. And the said Richard llembreo did remain absent until tlie eleventh dav of Mav, 1S63, when he was dulv arrested and brought to his Reginu'iU. To which charge and specification the accused plead as. follows: 'i'o the specification, guilty: to the charge, guilty. Findings of the court. — Of the specification, ginJtv ; of the charge, guiltv. Sentence. — Ami the court do therefore sentence liim, Private Richard llembree, of Companv 1',, ^Sth Regiment Iniliana X'olunteer Intantrv, to l)e shot to death, at such time and jilace as the commanding Cieneral mav .direct, tvvo-third> ot' tjie members of the coiut concurring therein. II. The proceedings of the court in the case ol' Private Riihard ilem- biee. Company K, 58th Regiment Indiana \'olunteei- I nfant ry. was a|iproveti. The sentence will be carried into execution under tlie direction of the Com- mander of the Division in which his Regiment is serving, on Mondav, the 22d day of June, 1S63, between the hours of twelve m. and three p. m. I>v command of MajorCieneral Rosecrans. C. (iODDARD. Officiai,: Assistant .\djutant (ieneral. A. THRALL. Assistant Adjutant (ieneral. Adjutant Whiting, after having intbrmed Cok)nel Buell and Lieutenant-Colonel Embree of the contents of this order, proceeded to the Regimental guard house, where llembree l.il (IIAIM-AIN HKiHT'S IIISTOI.'V OK THK was contiiK'd, and read to iho jirisoner the court's sentenee and order tor his execution, and made a detail of guards to con\e\- him to Division headc^uarters. When the order was read to him. Hembree was astounded, and utterly unable to comprehend the tuU meaning of the terrible fate that was awaiting him. It was some time before he could fully real- ize his situation. Adjutant Whiting told him that Colonels Buell and Embree were going to intercede for him with General Rosecrans, and that everything possible would be don2 to save his life. With this assurance, Hembree became somewhat more reconciled and soon announced his readiness to go with the guard to Division headquarters. In the meantime Colonels Buell and Embree had set about getting a reprieve for the prisoner, or at least a commutation of his sentence. They w^ent together to General Rosecrans" headquarters, but as he was at church did not liave an oppor- tunitv of seeing him. An appointment was made, however, throucfh General Tames A. Gartield, Chief of Statf, bv w4iich thev were to meet the commanding General at three p. m. At the appointed hour they returned and presented their case. General Rosecrans heard them, but did not evince much sympathy with their plea, in fact, he rather discouraged liie hope of anv change of the decree of the court. Failing to get trom General Rosecrans any assurance that he would revoke the order, Buell and Embree returned to the Regi- ment. Colonel Buell was disposed to abandon the case as hopeless, but Colonel Embree was not willing yet to give it up. By profession he was an attorney, and his experience as an advocate gave him a strong ad\ antage in a pleading of ihis kind. He resolved to bring all his skill as a lawyer and liis power as an advocate to bear, in an effort to save the life of this man. He again repaired to General Rosecrans' headquarters, and, through the intercession of General Gar- lield, a ]x>rsonal friend of Colonel Embree, secured another audience with the commanding General. This interview lasted about an hour, during which Colonel Embree pressed his suit with all the ardor of which he was capable. Rose- FlFTY-KKiH 111 INDIANA KE(i 1 M KN'i'. i:!:> crans listened willi nit)re interest than at tirst. and e\en com- plimented Colonel Embree on his ability as a lawyer, and especially uj-)on liis earnestness in pleadino- this ca^■e. He tin ally said : "Colonel Embree, you <,a) back to your Regiment, o-ft up a paper embodying all that you plead on behalf ot' this pris- oner, and haye the same signed by all the officers of your Regiment. Bring this paper to me, and I will see what can be done." With this encouraging hope to inspire him. Colonel Embree returned to the Regiment and at once prepared his appeal. By this time it was after dark, and before the appeal could be written up and put in shape for signatures most of the officers had retired. However, Adjutant Whiting took the paper and visited each of the officers, whose names were desired, at their quarters, arousing them and secur- ing their signatures. At an early hour Monday morn- ing the work was completed. With a confident heart. Colonel Embree started, after an early breakfast, with the appeal to General Rosecrans' headquarters. Although there was a belief among the officers and men of the 58th that the execution would be postponed, at least. yet there w^as no positive assurance of this. So, the forent)on of Monday was passed in anxious suspense, waiting to hear what action General Rosecrans would take. The condition of mind of the poor convicted prisoner was, of course, more miserable than that of his comrades, during these long hours of suspense. As Regimental Chaplain, it was my duty to visit him and otier him such spiritual advice as I could. I I'ound him at Division headquarters, in charge ol the pro\ osi guard, soon after his removal to that place. The officer in charge was very kind to him and to me, extending all the privileges that w^as possible under the circumstances. At my first visit I told Hembree that we would do all we could for him, but urged him to examine his preparation tor death. He cont'essed that he was not ready for eternity, and seemed to be deeply sensible of his condition. At a late hour in the I.'.t; CHAFLAIX RIGHT'S HISTOEY OF THE evening I called again, prayed with him and pointed him to the Savior as well as I could, then left him to spend a mis- erable night of anxietv. At ten o'clock J\londay morning I called again. Hembrec now professed a belief in the ]-)ardon of his sins and a readiness to meet death. lie was still unconscious as to his fate, but was now seemingU- resigned io meet whatev^er might be awaiting him. At one o'clock p. m. the otlicers of the Regiment were called together to hear the result of their petition. General Wood disapproved of the commutation of the sentence, but apprv>ved of the plea tor an extension of the time. General Critteiulen did not commit liimself stronijh- either way, but talked rather more favorablv for the prisoner. General Rosecrans argued against the petition, but admit- tetl sexeral points well taken. Incidentallv, he gave the petitioners a jtist rebuke for going into battle unprepared lor (K'atli. He. however, conchided to grant a reprieve luilil the will ot the President could be known. (ieneral WOod notified Ilembree of the decision, and of coursi* we were all greatK' relitwed. We know that Pi'esi- di'nl Lincoln has a tender lieart, aiul the jirobabilitv is that Ilendiree will be pardoned. The lollowing is a coj)\' ot the otlicial documents in this case, including the appeal ol the Regimental otlicers, the several <.'ndorsements ot the commanding Cienerals, tlu' o;")inion ot ftidgt.'- Advocate Holt, and the final endorsment of a lull ]:)ardon, b\' President Lincoln: ■'■ *•" These papers were not found witli Chaplain lli<^lit's manuscript, but a copy was recently obtained iVom the ^^'ar Department. 'IMiey are f^iven a ]>lace in the body ot" this work, rather than in toot notes or in an appendix. i)ecause it seoned more appropriate in order to till out tiie complete histors' ot' this incident in our Reij;imental history, an incident tliat made so deep an impression in tlie memory ot" every one with the Regiment at the time. In this connection, it may be stated, that this Richard Ilembree lived to ser\ e hi.s term of enlistmeiU. and is siill li\in'.i at the time thi- is published, — TG. R. S, F I FT Y-E Kill r li INDIA N A i; F( i I .M F X T . 1 •! 7 J.y APPEAL f\ BEHALF OF RICH API) 1/ EMI! PEE. Lami' Fii TV-EKJit rii Indiana X'ci.i n i i.kks. . FiK^r Bkicadi:. First 1)i\ ision, 'I'wf.ntv-iiks r Ai-)>eet'ull \- to tender this, ihcir ;ippe;il in liehait ol Kiehani Ilemhiee. prixate otCompanv E of saiii Regiment, who. liv (ien- eiMl Orders No. 137. is sentenced to he sliot to deatli hetween tlie houfs of twelve 111. and three p. m. on to-inonow. the 2.1a instant. We would respecttidlv represent that the prisoner, at the time lie ahsented himself from his Regiment, did not do so tor the purpose ot' deseitini; the service, hut, on the contrarx. -vvas taken sii-k on the tenth chi\ ct ()c!ol>tr. i86j. and was unahle to niarcli with his Company; he fell iiack. on the mai'ch. was oxertaken h\- the wa^on train, and heinu; unahle to carry hi- liun and accoutrements, jilaced them in a wa^on and undertook 'o keep up with the train (no one hein\nd the same execution was also witnessed by large numbers of men of other Regiments of this Division. ^^'e belie-.e no further example is necessary to \indicate the law in this Regiment, in fact desertions have long ago ceased in this Regiment. If further example be necessary for the benefit of other Regiments, we humbly and respectfully .ask that they may be allowed to furnish the victim, as there is no doubt they have cases equally or more worth v than that of Ilembree. .\gain. we would respeett'ully state that Ilembree resides in Dubois county. Indiana, a county which, out of a vote ot about sixteen hundred voters, easts eleven hundretl majority against the administration, tlius leav- ing but about two hundred and fifty friends of the administration (or Gov- eriunent. as they call it) within the county. This large number of men who oppose the Government are earnest in the work, and numy of them have been engaged, if report is true, in writing letters to the soldiers of this Regi- ment, telling them th.at they are engaged in a wicked and luihoh' enterprise, politically and morally; th;it the curse of (Jod and man rests upon them; that all their frieiuls at home entertain these opinions, and ad\ ising tlu'in to liesert the service; tliat such an act will be accounted honorable and no penalty infiicted; that the people (the sovereign people) will protect them. Is it strange that such things sliould have elTect upon ignorant men, when desertion was common and the Government failed to vindicate itself and the law? Again. we would respectfully state that previous to the time he was taken sick, and in that unfortunate hour deserted the service. Hembree was a good and faithful soldier, and we ha\e no tloubt would slill hv such. lie has a wife and live little children. They love him. lie lo\es them. 'I'hey look to him for sujiport. for the_\' are \erv pnnr. W'e grant that in strict law tiiese are no reasons in jiis liehalf. yet we think tliat in milit;iry as well as civil law, nirrey nia\- prnperh' oftrn ^. Ti-.N v.. luno jj. iSCi-j. ) 1 approve this application so fai" as ihc uranliiii;' tlio respite ol" a tew cia\s to the prisoner goes, but I cannot approve the ajipiication lor a remission ot" iiis sentence. The man was al>sent from his Regiment more tlian seven months and did not retain until he was arrested, showing a fixed determina- tion to desert the service; and this, too, after the President's proclamation tor tile return of deserters: and after, too. an ollicer had been sent from this armv to tlu' .State of Indiana to aid deserters to retui-n and av.-iil themselves of tlie inimunitv granted in the ])i-oclamation. Justice to the intiividual is I'lten mere v to the man \ . TllO.S. J. WOOD. Brii/adier-C jeneral X'olun leers, Comniandin"'. 11 1: Ancy. ARTERs Tvv kxtv-First .Xr-mv Cori>s. ) June 2 2. iS('T,- \ Respectt'nllv forwanied. I recommend that further lime be given in this case. The prisoner plead guiltv and was conv icled. An ignorant man mav have debarred himself from manv extenuating circumstances; mav have thonght it a trivial oflence and refused to put in anv defeni-e; and mav . at tlie same time, have had testimonv to mitigate the peiiahv of death. r. L. CRn-lKNDKX. M aior-( jeneral. 1 1 EAIXJJ AK ri lr to lie, 'S'our obedient ser\ant. J. HOLT. To the President. Ju'lg*-' Advocate General. Pardon. .\. LINCOLN. July iS, 1S63. , .\mono' othi^r important L'\ent.s j-)erUiininLi," to the Regiment here, was the ori^inatino- a phm tor erecting" a Regimental Monument. The ]">hin was to seciu'e tlie fnnd that was (hie tiie Regi- ment on accoiHit of commutation aUowed by the (io\ernment for unused rations, with the addition of liberal subscriptions from the ofllcers. and with this fund erect a monument. This plan was made known to the Regiment, and was heart- ilv endorsed b\- all. Accordingly a monumental organiza- tion was perfected, of which Lieutenant-Colonel Kmbree was made president and Major Joseph .Moore secretary. It FIFTY-EIGHTH INDIANA RECHMENT, li'S MONUMENT OF THE FIFTY-EIGHTH INDIANA REGIMEN T AT PRIN-CETOX. IXDIAXA. DEDrCATED JULY 4, 1865. U4. (IIAPLAIX H1(;HT"S HISTOK'V OK TilK was stipulated that the cost ot the monument should not exceed $5,000, and that no subscription should be solicited outside of the members of the Regiment, as it was intended to be a monument of the Regiment and erected by the Reg- iment. It was determined by the voice of the Regiment that the monument should be erected in the court house ; quare in Princeton, Gibson county, Indiana, where the Regiment was organized. A local committee was appointed, consisting of Andrew Lewis, Joseph Devin, William Kurtz and John Kell, to carry into effect the wishes of the Regi- ment. This committee advertised for plans, with probable cost of erection. In answer, the committee received a num- ber of designs, with cost. The design of C. Rule and Cole- man, of Cincinnati, Ohio, was adopted as the choice of the Regiment, as the one most appropriate for the purposes intended. The design of monument adopted was an elegant marble shaft, about thirty-three feet in height. On the north side, crossed swords, flag and wreath. On the east side, a small sliield resting on bunches of oak and myrlle crossed. Underneath, a large wreath encircling the Vvords : "Erected by the survivors of the Fifty-eighth Regiment Indiana Vol- unteers, to the memor}^ of their deceased comrades." On the south side is a knapsack supporting crossed muskets and flags, and a soldier's cap. On the west side is the coat of arms of the state of Indiana. On the several sides are the following inscriptions: On the south, "Stone Ri\-er;" west, "Lavergnef' north, "Mission Ridge;" east, "Chicka- mauga" and "Honor the Flag." The names of all of the members of the Regiment known to be dead at the dale of erection of the monument were to be inscribed on its several faces. An American eagle, made of the tinest Italian marble, surmounts the shaft, holding the national ensign in his beak and talons. The resident committee was notified of the choice of the Regiment, and it closed a contract with the above named firm, stipulating that the monument should be completed by FIFTY-EIGHTH INDIANA REOIMENT. 14.5 the time the Regiment returned from the tield at the expira- tion of its term of service.* While in this camp, the order was given to turn over our Sihlev tents and adopt the sheher tents in their stead. These were pieces of canvas about four feet square, one piece to be carried by each man. By fastening two together and stretching over a small pole, a shelter was provided for two men. When put up, they very much resembled a dog kennel, and the outtit was very appropriately named ''Pup Tents'" by the boys. There was a general howl of indigna- tion when this new order was introduced. The imprecations that were heaped upon the man who brought this miserable travestv on a tent into existence were emphatic. But exper- ience changed their opinion. The shelter tent proved to be of the ({reatest service after its merits became fullv known. Altogether, our stay in Murfreesboro was the most pleas- ant experience in our soldier life. Our camps were all in strict military order, and wxre kept clean. Our daily duties, while sometimes arduous, were not unpleasant. Under the strict discipline and regular drill maintained here, the army was greatly improved. In the matter of clothing and equip- ments, it never presented as tine an appearance as it did on dailv dress parade at MurtVeesboro. "■•■ This monument \vas formallv and appropriately dedicated on the 4th dav of Julw 1S6;, while the Regiment was yet in camp at Louisville. Ken- tucky, awaiting orders for final discharge, which had been expected to take place prior to the above date. Many of the officers and enlisted men of the Regiment recei\ed furloughs and were present at the dedication, as well as large numbers of citizens, and soldiers of other Regiments. Addresses were delivered l)y Dr. Andrew Lewis, Rev. John Mc Master. D. D., Chaplain John ]. I light, and others, and the monument was accepted in behalf of the Regiment bv the members thereof who were present. It was the first mon- ument erected in the state in honor of soldiers of the war of the Rebellion, and is probabU' the onlv Regimental mommient, in any state, erected In- fands provided b\- its members exclusiveh', and the only one dedicated before the Regiment was discharged from the service. In the manner of its con- ception, as well as in the manner of its construction, the ^Sth Indiana Regi- mental Monument, which stands in the court house square at Princeton, is certainlv unique. CHAPTER XII. Advancinc; on Tullahoima — Marching Through Mud AND Rain — Climbing tuk Mountain — Demonstra- tion OF Cannon County People — Tullahoma E\'ac- UATED — In Camp at IIillsboro — Kii>led by an Over-Zealous Guard — Excitement and Indigna- tion in the 58TH — Military Funerals — Religious Services in Camp — Celebrating the Fall op' vicksburg and victory at gettysburg numer- OUS Events of Interest Detailed. TUESDAY, June 23, orders were issued to the various Brigades and Regiments to prepare for marching next morning, earlv, with three days' rations in the haversacks and live in the wagons to accompany' each Regiment. Althoupfh simihu- orders had been issued several times betbre, during our stay here, vet there were many indications now that tliis order was not to be countermanded. It was to be a move sure enough. Wednesday, June 24, we broke up our pheasant camp and started on the march at seven o'clock. It was a great sight to see this grand army move out. With wagons, artillery, cavalry, officers and men, in almost endless lines, the column moved on various roads leading toward the enemy, ^rhe air was rent with cheers and with music of Ixuids, as tliis ijreat host, with banners ilvino-, marched forth airain to battle. Van Cleve's Division, of oiu" Corps, was lett in tlie fortitica- tions at Murfreesboro. We moved out on the Bradyville pike. Palmer's Division was in the ad\ance of Wood. FIFTV-KKiHTH INDIANA KKlilMENT. 11-7 About nine o'clock it beijjan to rain and soon the dust\' pike was converted into a thorou<^htare of thin mud. There are rebels in front of our column but thev are in small force and are not makino- much opposition. Over on the right, on the Manchester pike, where General Thomas' Corps is moving, we can hear hea\ y cannonading, indicating that the rebels are contesting his advance in strong force. About two p. m. we went into camp near Donnelson Church, having marched twelve miles. The 58th jiut up their shelter tents for the tirst time, in a low, wet meadow. It was still raining and we found our "pup tents" quite a protection. Palmers' Division passed on to Bradvville and went into camp. Companies A and V went out on picket. They were stationed at a house and had a much more pleas- ant position than those who remained in camp. At seven o'clock next morning we were again on the marcii. The rain was now coming down in torrents. About ten o'clock we passed through Bradvville, a miser- able, dilapidated town, that seemed the worse for having been the camp of a strong force of rebel cavalr\'. Here the turnpike ended and we had to take the dirt road, which was now almost impassable. I saw two male citizens at this town, the tirst we had seen since leaving Murfreesboro. Neither were able bodied. I also had a conversation with a native woman. She had not been about much. Said she had been "at the foot of the Hollow, Gillev's Gap, but never at the top," and had lived here all her lil'e. She was one of those people who thougiit it very wrong for "vou uns" to come down here to fight ''we uns." We could only make tour miles to-dav on account of Pal- mer's Division being in oiu" advance and in our wav. At five p. m. we went into camp in Gillev's Gap, b\' some called Brush Gap. At the time of going into camp the rain had ceased and the sun was shining. We remained in camp all next da^• wailing for Palmer's Division to clear the wav. Thev were ascendinp- the first steep shelf of the Cumberland Mountains, and progress was UH CHArLALX HKJHT'S HISTOKY OF THE slow. Rain fell in occasional showers all day. Cannonad- ing and musketry heard on our right, in the direction of Hoover's Gap. Saturday morning, June 27, we were preparing to move. Our Bricrade was sent in advance of Division to work on road. With great difficulty our Division got up the steep and rugged hill. We went four miles and camped at a place called Dug Spring. This was in Cannon county. The land was barren and the country sparsely settled. When we went into camp great numbers of women and children came from the surrounding brushes to see the soldiers. The men had all gone to war, either as volunteers or conscripts. The women had never seen a brass horn or heard a band play. It was with rapturous delight that they listened to the music of our Regimental band. One damsel declared, when she heard "Dixie," that she would stay witli the band always, if they would play that tune for her. The band changed the tune. Another expressed it as her opinion, that "you all are the smartest men that ever came to Cannon county." We all felt very much flattered, and the band almost blowed their eyes out in their efforts to show their appreciation of this compliment. Our band was made up of raw material, detailed from the various companies, while we were at Murtreesboro, and they had not received many com- pliments on their playing up to this time, lience, their high appreciation of the musical taste of these Cannon county women. Likewise, our Adjutant was affected b}- this demonstration. lie is a man of great sobriety and decorum, usually, liut on this occasion he tlirew decorum to the winds, and mounting a stump, hat in hand, called for three cheers for the band, and three times three for the women of Cannon county. The boys responded to this call in a manner that made the hills ring. They loaded the Cannon county chil- dren down with crackers and such other nicknacks as sol- diers have. Uncle Johnn\' Everett, our teamster, gave one of the little boys a mule colt which he led off as proudly as Alexander rode Beaucephalus. I dare say the visit of the FIFTY-EIGHTH INDIANA REGIMENT. UO Yankee soldiers to Dug Spring will linger in the traditions of Cannon county tor a thousand years. On Sunday, June 28, we marched nine miles, camping near Manchester ; still raining, roads very bad. On Monday morning we started again on our journey, l:)ut turned back and went into camp, remaining there all day. Tuesday morning we started at liye o'clock and went to Manchester and camped on the banks of Duck river, north of the town, until next morning. General \"an Cleye's Division, which had been left at Murfreesboro, came up this evening bring- ing a large supply train tbr the 21st Corps. They also brought a big mail. July 1st the ist Division was ordered to march at eleyen o'clock in light order, towards Tullahoma. The ist Brigade was detached as rear guard for the train, and was conse- quently detained in Manchester until late in the afternoon. About two o'clock p. m., while still lying here, news came tliat the rebels had evacuated Tullahoma and that General Brannan's Division, of the 14th Corps, was in the town. We were to bring up all the train and follow the Division, which was moving towards Hillsboro. It was eleven o'clock that night when we got into camp, about one mile from Hillsboro. The roads were very bad and we had to wait on tlie slow progress of the wagon train. For the next day or two we marched back and forth be- tween Hillsboro and Pelham, This maneuverin() FIFTY-KIGHTH INDIANA EEGIMENT. 150 In the afternoon William Witherspoon, of Company A, was taken with a series of severe convulsions. He was wounded in the charge of his company on Lavergne, December 27, 1862, having been struck on the top of the head b^' a ball. P\m- a long time he has been well and hearty, but I have no doubt his present affliction is a result of the injurv received in that battle. At two p. m. I began a school for the instruction of the negroes and had a large number in attendance. I am using the "Bible Reader," published by the American Sunday School Union. Man}^ remarks, not ver}' complimentary to me, as those who make them suppose, ai*e made about me on account of this school. I feel it one of the proudest honors of mv life thus to receive the contempt of the vulgar because I am the instructor of the oppressed and the poor. In everv wav I am bevond the reach of the malice and prejudice of the dirtv crowd of negro haters. T have enough monev, character and friends to live far above them. I pitv the people who are so blinded by prejudice, and will gladly do all T can to elevate and educate them ; but I fear some of them will never get the caste removed tVom their minds. It is just such people as these that iiave been disgracing New York b}' the recent riots. A better dav will come when all this bigotry will pass away and men v,ill wonder at it as we do now at canni- balism. Our Regiment was sent out to repair the road to Man- chester, Tuesdav. On account of the great amount of haul- ing the road was full of chuck holes and almost impassable in places. Thursday, July 30. — Captain Charles II. Bruce, of Companv K, took $2,694 ^^ Tullahoma and expressed it home for men in our Regiment. lie also took $1 ,100 of the Regimental monument t'und to send off. At a meeting of the commissioned officers this morning it was determined to leave the site and plan of the monument to Colonel Embree and tiie local committee in Princeton. A spot suggested is 1()() (HAPI.AIN HJUHT'S HISTOIJV (►F THK on the ground belonging to Dr. A. Lewis, across the street from Monroe Barton's. A moonlight pra3^er meeting in camp. — Let me attempt a pen picture of one: At sunset Corporal Redman sang, "When I Can Read M3' Title." The straggling worshipers come one by one. Each takes his seat, near or far, pra^•ing or prayerless. The ^•olume of voice swells as the song proceeds : "Not as the flving come. In silence or in fear; They shook the depths of the desert's glooin With their hvmns of loftv cheer." The hymn ceases. The minister arises, urges all to feel at liberty knd to lead in praver or exhortation. He an- nounces the old penitential psalm of Watts, "Show pit\' Lord, Oil Lord forgixe," etc. After this is sung all bow in prayer. The memory of the loved ones far away comes up before the soldier as he fervently prays that all the blessings thev ask for him ma^• fall in multiplied showers upon them. What a time ''for memory and for tears.'' The white-washed cottage, the tidy wife, the children who have ceased to "Run to lisp their sire's return, Or climb his knee, the envied kiss to share," come thronging through his throbbing heart. Ihinn after h\'mn and prayer after prayer are offered up to (jod. until the hour for dismissing comes. What holy influences linger around the soldier's praver meeting. Wiio can measure the good then and there accom- , ]")lished. How man\' a brave but erring soldier at siu'h a meeting has been led by the Blessed Spirit to reform his life. How many a sinking Peter has been upheld b^• a Savior's haiul. How many mature christians have realized in siuh an hour, "That the path of the just is as \\\c shining light. that shinetii more and more unto the perfect daA."" It is nine o'clock. I retire to my cot. It is a sini]-»le. but ingenious strticliu'e. It is about six feet in length b\- two feet and eight inches in width. 1'here are three bars of iron FTFTY-EKiHTH INDIANA KEGIMENT. 1(51 ucross it, which fold in the middle. Layino- it upon one edge it shuts up. The six legs can then be folded up. Then the whole has a joint in the middle, so that all falls into a bundle a yard long, and a very few inches in width and breadth. A convenient cot is this of mine. I purchased it in the citv of New Albany in the spring of 1862, for five dollars. I have had it with me in all my campaigns, save when I was compelled to leave it behind. Many a sweet night's repose have I had resting on it. It has two faults — it is too short, and then that miserable bar across the middle. Yes. this very nio-ht it made me dream of a broken le^^;. I seldom permit myself to use my bed lor meditation, as beds are made to sleep on. But to-nigiit I wish that my tViends could see the situation. At the other side of the tent lies John Patterson, a refugee Tennessee boy — our cook and steward. Between the cots stands an excellent desk, made of a cracker box. Three stools, fixed as stout as four stakes under each could make them, are provided for the comfort of the inmates or visitors. From pole to pole above my head is a line with my clothing. It is astonishing how much comfort, neatness, and even luxury, can be crowded into a little wall tent. Oh ! ye housekeepers that pine away in your cottage for w^ant of room, come and see how happy the soldier lives in his tent. Come and learn that "Man wants but little here below, Nor wants that little long." But hark I what sweet, unearthly music is that winch falls upon mv ear? Listen I as plaintive voices chant, "I have a mothei" over jonder, Safe in the Promised Land." It is the contrabands singing. The toils of the dav are past and thev have come to sing their troubles away. Did you ever notice that negroes always sing sad and melancholy ? Thus, Aunt Jennie sings in her tent to-night, surrounded bv every shade known to human faces. But, listen I it is not all singing — they have a school. Aunt Jennie, imitating the Chaplain, is teaching them to read. What! negroes learn- IC.l' CUVrLAlN HKiHT'S UlSTOli'V OF THK ing to read, in violation of tlie laws of Tennessee? What presumption. J)ut is not knowledge for them? Have the^' not minds, given them by their Creator? Are they not to be cultivated and fitted for a land of endless life and endless beauty? As the rolling sun gilds with glorv the rough mountain crags, so let knowledge shine upon these, and make them better. Oh, the wild, glorious, roving life of a bold soldier bov I With all thy faults, I love thee still. How pleasant the sweet consciousness that God gives to him that he tights in a good cause. His soul is unfettered by the trammels of civ- ilized life. Does he desire to worship? Where he is is his church. Does he wish for sleep? He savs, with Tecum- seh, ''The earth is my mother ; I will repose on her bosom." No pent up Utica contracts his powers ; he travels far and near, seeing manv lands. He sails on the ocean, steams on the river, rattles on the cars, trudges on the mud road, and climbs the bold mountains. He bares his breast to the storm and savs: "I'hou art m\- brother." The gentle rains fall upon his brow, and he welcomes them as a mother's kiss. He would not exchange the cooling draught of water from the sparkling lountain for all the drinks of the most fashionable saloon. His fare is rough, but then his appetite is good, and he has not sickened over dainties. He lives a life of toil, btit his muscles are strong and his heart is brave. He exists amid dangers, but he heeds them not, for the smiles of the fair, the prayers of the good, and the hopes of the oppressed cheer him on. When he stands in battle, his soul sinks not in tear, for above him is the tiag of the iVee, and beneath the soil he would lie, rather than vield to tyrants. The cannon's deadlv roar, the crash of arms, the shout of the charge are his music. If victory comes, his soul is filled with indescribable jov. If he falls, full well he knows, "Whetlier on the scaftold liigli, Or in the battle's van, The noblest place for man to liii.' Is where he dies for man." FIFTY-EKiHTH INDIANA EEGIMENT. lO.} It" he perish, true hearted comrades will diu- his orave. "No useless coffin will enclose his form ; he will lav like a warrior, taking his rest, with his martial cloak around him." Why need he dread death ? Is not the grave the common receptacle of the young, the beautiful, the beloved? Let not the brave then fear to die. His memory shall be cher- ished bv those who love him. The mighty deeds in which he bore an humble part shall live in the traditions of a thou- sand generations — but, hush, n^v wandering thoughts I Stillness reigns in camp ; 'tis time for sleep. Good night. Friday, July 31. — Most of this dav I have spent in writ- ing. I am fearful of foreign intervention in our national affairs. We are hated by the tyrants of the old world, and now, when the rebellion seems about to be overthrown, thev are afraid that free government will succeed. For a time thev were willing to leave us alone, hoping we would devour each other. But now, being satisfied that the Southern aristocrac}" will be overthrown and the Union established, they seem determined to prevent so desirable a result. I tremble at the prospect. My only hope is that God will uphold the cause of liberty. The whole world may be engaged in the contest before it is ended. "The Lord reigns, let the earth rejoice." Sunday, August 2. — The Regimental inspection at nine o'clock. At ten o'clock we had church services, conducted by Chaplain Crews. A large congregation was present. I preached at the same place at 2 : 30 p. m., and at Ilillsboro at 4 p. m. At the first services a few negroes were present, A man belonging to the 58th had started to church, but when he saw the negroes he refused to go, lest he should equalize himself with "niggers." He said he "would not go ten steps to hear Hight preach, because he was a nigger lover." This same man went to the four o'clock meeting, in Hills- boro, however, walking three-fourths of a mile through the hot sun, when, great was his astonishment to see Hight get up to preach. But he staid through the sermon, notwith- standing his boast. How extremely ridiculous many people \(U CHAPLAIN llI(iHT"S HISTOIfV OF THK make themselves on account ot" the netrroes. T always bear with such, and pity tliem, for I know how easily ignorant men are led astray by caste. In the evening we had a most solemn. time, in the observ- ance of the sacrament of the I^ord's Supper. Almost half of the congreg-ation were communicants. At the close, three of the 58th and two of the looth Illinois came forward for church membership. The three were Lieutenant J. G. Behm, whom I had known in Indiana as keeper of the Gib- son countv poor house ; Benjamin Lilley, who was for a long time cook at headquarters, and Lewis Beck, whose wife latel}' made a profession of religion at her home in Indiana. There is a deep religious feeling in the Regiment. May God continue to send his Holy Spirit down upon us. Tuesday, August 4. — The Regiment went to Murfrees- boro to-day, leaving in camp Surgeon Adams, Ciiaplain Ilight, Captains Whitman, Cain and Evans, Lieutenants Snvder, Voorhees and Chappell. one non-commissioned officer from each Compan\', Commissar\'-Sergeant Farmer, the band, and most of the servants. The Regiment went as a jjuard for two hundred wagons from our Division after rations. I am under the impression that about next Monday we will commence crossing the mountains, with twentv-tive days' rations. Colonel George P. Buell returned to-day iVom an eight days' furlough. I learn that he has tendered his resignation. If it should be accepted, we will lose a good officer. For while I have not always been able to commend his conduct, yet it must be said that Colonel Buell has been loyal to his Regiment. He is not without fault, but he has man\" excel- lent traits of character. He is, unlike so many other officers, free from intoxication, and has always tried to suppress it among those under his command. He always tries to main- tain a high standard of discipline in the Regiment. Thursday, August 6, was observed as a National Thanks- giving by order of President Lincoln, in commemoration of our recent victories. We had appropriate services in our FlFTY-EKiHTH IM>IANA EfXilMEXT. lO:. Recriment, but the attendance was not lar^e, on account ot' tlie absence of the trreater part ol' our Reii-iment at Murtrees- boro, and the heav\' details tor duty from the other Regi- ments of the Brigade. Chaplain Crews preached a good sermon on national affairs. At two p. m. mv contraband school met. Some are mak- ing great progress, some are getting along slowly. While my class was reciting, a great number of soldiers gathered around, as thev do more or less every day. They are all disappointed ; those who hate negroes disagreeably so, at the progress made bv mv pupils. The superior system ot instruction, perhaps, lias something to do witli their rapid progress, but more largely is it to be attributed to their intense eagerness to learn. Chaplain Crews and Rev. Mr. Pearson, of the Tennessee M. E. Conference, made some encouraging remarks to the school. 1 think young Pearson is getting his eyes open to the iniquity of slavery. 1 am determined to prepare a few of the slaves tor freedom. I had an introduction this afternoon to Chaplain Thomp- son, of the 64th Ohio. He came only a few days ago, and called to see me, in company with Lieutenant-Colonel Brown, of that Regiment. He is a solid, hne looking man, and belongs to the United Presb^'terian church. The Regiment returned from Murfreesboro, Friday, August 7, with their wagons loaded. They brought twenty- five days' rations tor the Division, and had a very pleasant trip. In the afternoon of Saturday, August 8, I attended a Union meeting in the Tucker neighborhood. Many soldiers were present. Speeches were made by Lieutenant-Colonel Young, Lieutenant-Colonel Palmer, Lieutenant J. L. Yar- yan and others. The people were very green about the transaction of business in a meeting of this kind. Only one motion was put, and that was by Lieutenant Yaryan. Monday, August 10. — Great preparation is being made for marching. Colonel Buell has withdrawn his resigna- tion, and has determined to stay with the Regiment. Quite 166 CHAPLAIN HKiHT'S UISTOIJV OF THK a number of general orders trom Division headquarters were read, on dress parade this evening, promulgating decisions ot" a court martial in ret'erence to several men in our Regi- ment. Wednesda\' 1 rode out into the countrv with Dr. McGavan, of tlie 26th Ohio. We went out on the Decherd road and stopped for a few moments at the house of a citi- zen named Lans, who proved to be a miserable old fool and secessionist. He said: "I never meddle with politics or scripter nor swar any.'' He wished he was "sot down in P'rance or somewhar," that he could be free. I was vexed at the Doctor for exchanging a few words with such an unpatriotic ignoramus. We went on and took dinner at the Widow Call's, who lived between the Decherd and Win- chester roads. It was a splendid dinner we had. On our return, we called on an old lady by the name of Smith, who was very sick. Her husband told me she was a "night rider." I supposed he meant that she was subject to "night mare," and was prepared to ofl'er my sympathy. But when it was explained that "night rider" was the Tennessee des- ignation for "midwife," I had to apologize for my igno- rance. Thursday, Aucjust 13. — I sent to Joseph Patterson, treasurer, if 120. 75, the amount of our Regiment's contribu- tion to the fund of the U. S. Christian Commission. We liad a terrible rain storm this afternoon. Several -trees were l)lown down in camp, but tortunateh- none of our Regiment were hurt. Colonel Embree returned from a twenty days" furlough, bringing man^• letters and packages for the boys. CHAPTER XIII. O.N TO Chattaxoo(;a — Crossinc; Cumberland Moun- tains — Sequatchie Vallp:y — A Fertile Spot — False Alarm — Fruitless Expe:dition — Bob Whitp:, the Union Spy — Crossing the Tp:nnessee — Nicka- jACK Cave — First View of Lookout Mountain — Reconnoisance — Chattanooga E\'Acuated — Wood's Dix'isioN Occupies iiii; T{)^^•N. UNEXPECTEDLY, the contemplated march began Sun- day, August 1 6. We were not expecting to start before Monday, but the orders came to break camp, and all our arrangements tbr preaching services were cancelled. The distance marched to-dav was only eight miles, but part of the distance was so verv hot and dustv that some of the men were prostrated. During the afternoon a refreshing shower of rain fell, and made things more pleasant. Our Brigade went into camp at the foot of the mountain ; Wag- ner's Brigade, which was in our ad\ance, ascended the mountain during the dav and night. Monday morning we began climbing the moimlain. Om* wagons were never so heavilv loaded. We had thirt\' days' rations in them, besides necessary baggage, equipments, etc. One-half the load of each wagon was left at the foot of the mountain. At first the rise is very gradual, but as w^e approach the summit tiie road is very steep. The teams to the artillery and heavy wagons were doubled. Then there were long ropes attached to the tongues of vehicles, and all the men that could la}' hold of the ropes assisted the teams 108 CHAPLAIX HIGHT'S HISTORY OF TIIK in piillino- tlieir loads up the steep places. All dd\ , and tlie <;reater part of the night, was occupied in getting the two l^rigades, with their wagons and artillery, up the movmtain. But it was tinallv accomplished, without accident or mishap of an^' kind. At a late hour, men and horses went to rest on the mountain top. There were rattlesnakes in great abundance all around, but we were too tired to be disturbed bv them. A great number of these reptiles were killed by our soldiers, as thev moved about the place of bivouac with imnecessarv freedom and familiarity. On the 1 8th we marched seven miles, camping at Tracy CilA'. Next dav we made a most remarkable march ot twenty-eight miles, camping at the foot of the mountain, at a place called Thurman, in Sequatchie Valley. It was a long, hard march, but the weather w^as very pleasant for an August dav. The Regiment was halted on tiie mountain side to build tires to light the way for the trains to come down. I5ut it was afterward decided to leave them on the mountain until to-morrow ; so we passed on down to the val- ley and went into camp sometime after dark, in Widow Thurman 's potato patcii. Secjuatchie Valle\' is a very lertile spot, anj is a great tVuit coimtrv, as we observed when we awoke next morning. We discovered that our camping place was in a sweet potato patch, w^ith a large peach orchard near by. Within easy distance there was a patch of fine roasting ears, and all about were gardens and fields, containing vegetables and fruits in ii'reat abundance. The sight was verv satisfvinarren look . Xext dav after our arrival in the valkw, we were alarmed h\ tlie report that 4,000 rel^els were coming. We got into FIFTV-EKrHTH INDIANA IJECJIMKNT. 169 line in the best shape we could, and awaited the approach of the foe with fear and tremblinij;. There w'ere some braver than the others — as there always is — who said, "Let 'em come." But these brave persons were as much relieved as the rest of us were, when it was discovered that it was a false alarm. It is a great deal more pleasant to lie around in the shade and cat peaches than to be skipping about in tlie hot sun dodafinp- rebel cannon balls and listenino- to the music of their muskets. To-dav a call was made ibr volunteers to go on an expe- dition to a point on the Tennessee River, be^■ond Walden's Ridge, to capture a steamboat, which was reported to be stuck at that place. Four hundred men were wanted, one hundred from each of the four Regiments, with Colonel Buell in command. Tlie 58th easil\- turnished its one liun- dred volunteers, and about the middle of the afternoon the expedition set out. Thev marched over Walden's Ridge, following blind roads and bv-paths, lead h\ a native guide. About four o'clock next morning the^' came in sight of the Tennessee River. But the steamboat was not there, and so thev had their march of eighteen or twentv miles lor noth- ing. There was nothing for them to do but return to camp, which thev did, reaching there about eight p. m. Although this expedition was fruitless, vet it demonstrated the pluck and nerve of those who enlisted in it. It showed wliat might be expected of men who would voluntarilv enlist in an expedition involving so much hardship and possible danger. On this trip the party passed the houses of man\' Union peo- ple, wlu:) were greatlv delighted to see the ]lo^'s in blue. One of the notetl characters who was seen on this mountain expedition was Bob White, a well known I'nion sjiv. His wife stavs at home, but Bob has not slept in his lu)use for eight months. The rebels luive made e\'erN- elfort to arrest him, but without success. lie goes into their lines when he pleases, and does manv daring things. Sunday, August 23. — Chaplain Crews prc:iched under the shade of a chestnut tree in camp at ten a. m, on the text ; 170 ( IIAPLAIX HKiHT'S HiSTOlfV OK THK *'What must I do to be saved?" It was a good sermon, a great deal better than the one I preached at two p. m. at the same place. At 5:30 p. m., Chaplain Crews preached at Division headquarters. This is the first event of the kind in this Divison since our connection with it. There is a great change in General Wood, so far as spiritual matters are concerned, and I hope he will vet become a sincere Christian man. The services were held in the shadow of the mountain, and I thought, how pleasant it is thus to wor- ship Him, who was God, "before the mountains were brought forth." We remained in this camp until September ist, enjoving life as only soldiers thus situated can. At seven o'clock that morning we again took up our march, moving down the valley. The road was verv dustv, and marching dis- agreeable, but we made twcntv miles, nevertheless. We camped about a mile from Jasper. Marion count^'. It is to be noted that this is the tirst time we have had anv dust on our marches for ten months. Hitherto our marches have usually been attended with rain and mud. Wp:dnesday, September 2. — Marched at six p. ni., and crossed Sequatchie River alter dusk. Came to the Ten- nessee opposite Shellmound. Our wagons were sent by way of Bridgeport. During the night our Brigade crossed the river, using some old flat-bottomed barges for that purpose. Barker's Brigade followed ours. Camped near Nickajack Cave. The rebels had extensive saltpeter works here. During Thursda\- and h"rida\-. while our command resttnl in this vicinity, nian\' of the bovs availed themselves of the opportunity to visit the cave and inspect its many curiosities. Some of them found, by actual experience, that the rebel saltpeter of the cave was loo much for tiie tabric contained in Yankee trousers. There were some inviting places to sit down and r(\st, but those who indulged in such a rest found, on rising, that tiieir jiantaloons were not in a condition to pass inspection, esjiecialh' from the rear rank. FIFTY-EKiHTH INDIANA HECUMENT. 171 This cave was said to have been a great retreat for Indians in the olden time. Some specimens of Indian crockery were still found there. Shellmound is so called on account of being a great collection of shells. This is also said to have been the work of Indians, but tor wliat purpose I am unable to learn. Near the cave lives an old negro catcher and his blood- hounds. He is ignorant, ugly and poor. He has never been in the cave, a few feet Irom his door. He tells me he can catch a "nigger anywhar.'' I never begrudge the Devil such men. About noon, Saturday, September 5th, we moved from Shellmound toward Chattanooga. We passed between Raccoon Mountain and the River, the road, for the greater part of the time, followed along the bank of the river. Then we turned off to the right, marching up a valley, and passing bv where an immense bridge liad spanned a deep ravine from tiie hinfh hills on either side. This bridge had been completely destroyed bv our iViends tiie enemy. After marching about ten miles we went into camp in a narrow vallev by the side of a runnino- stream. By orders ot Gen- eral Wood, no sounding of bugle or drum was permitted here, as we were getting pretty close to the rebels. It was our purpose, it seems, to tind out all we could as to what thev were doing, and how man\' ot them were doing it ; and to keep them in ignorance, as much as possible, as to our own doings. Wood's Division was in the advance. Generals Palmer's and Van Cleve's Divisions were following us. Si'NDAY, Sei'TKMber 6. — About eight a. m. we resumed our march, but the ambulances and baggage wagons were left behind. If the rebels had been disposed to dispute our advance the country was well adapted for such purpose. But we saw no enemy during the morning. We crossed a ridge, passed througli the little village of Whiteside, and then hied into Lookout Valley. In the village I saw a pretty little girl, nculh- dressed, reading the Testament. She had a hue. intelligent face. 171' ( HAl'LALX HI(iHT"S HISTOKV OF THE and seemed unconscious of the war watrini*- around. This sight carried my mind back to those Sabbath scenes in which I liad lound so much jov and satisfaction in other days. Oh, when shall those peaceful Sabbath davs return again? May He, who holds the destiny of nations in His hands, iiasten the iuippv time. From Whiteside I caught m\ tirst glimpse of Lookout Mountain. It stood out in majestic grandeur across the valley and seemed to be an impassable barrier to our army. Further up the valley we could see the point where the mountain peak towered high above all the s^urrounding bights. It was a grand sight that nature afforded, but we are not out looking at beautiful scenery this afternoon. There is more serious business at hand. As we moved on into IvOokout Valley our advance found the enemy. The sound of musketry disturbed the quiet of the Sabbath after- noon. But it was only the rebel outposts and they quickh' ii^ave way. About sundown we went into bivouac in line of battle at Wauhatchie Station, having marched about eight miles to-dav. The 58th held a position immediately on the left of the station house, on a hill in the woods. In plain view was the t'amous Lookout Point. Here \\as a rebel signal station. We could see their signal flag busih' at work, telegraphing all our movements. More than this, the ladies ot Sunimer- ville, a resort on the mountains, came in their white dresses and sat on the rocks looking at the ^'ankees. The^' re- mained there until dark, expecting no doubt to see a battle. I have not yet got near enough to an^■ ol these women to ask them how the\' liked the looks of the Yankees. About ten p. m. I was awakened hv an order to c^\'aciuitt>. (rathering up all m\- traps and saddling nn" h()rs(.\ I moved olfwitli the Regiment. '^Pht.' enemy, hearing thi' rattle ot the artillery, beat the long roll and fell into line. 'l^heN' evi- dently expected an attack. i^>iit we went the other wa\' until we regained our position at the jilace where we entered Lookout \'allr\-. Hei'e we finished our nights repose. FIFTV-KKillTIl IMUANA IJKiilMEXT. 17:! It is rumored in camp that there has been a little difterence between Crittenden and Wood in ret'erence to the move- ments of this day. It is said that Wood during- the after- noon reported sharp skirmishing. He stated that his ''mili- tary knowledge" taught him that his position in the evening was a bad one, and asked permission to fall back. Critten- den, after reflecting on the "sharp skirmishing," that resulted in no casualties, and underscoring military knozvl- cdgt\ gave Wood permission to fall back. This was very unkind in Crittenden. He should remember that he holds his position Irom the fact that he belongs to one of the first families of the Blue Grass region, of Kentucky. Wood is o an old officer who has served his country long and well. He was on the ground. Crittenden ought not to have indulged in any petulence. Besides all this, W^ood \vas right, according to Napoleon. "'Think often in reference to your position," said the Emperor. "Ask yourself what you would do in case of an assavilt upon an}^ part of your forces. If you cannot answer the question, your position is a bad one; chancre it immediately." In our front was a large camp of rebels. Beyond the mountain, which the enemy held, they had another camp. From this latter they might pass in the night to our rear, and cut us off" fVom our main army. It was therefore proper for us to fall back to such a position that we would have them in our front if they came down from the mountain. Wood was right. During Monda^" we remained in camp, waiting develop- ments. On Tuesday Ilarker's Brigade made a retonnoi- sance up Lookout Valley and had a sharp little brush with the enemy, losing; one man. killed. Wednesdav, September 9. — We have orders in our Brigade to be ready to move on short notice. The intention is to make another reconnoissance toward Lookout Valley.* * To elicit the truth. General Rosccrans directed General Thomas to send Colonel Atkins, of the y^d Illinois, to make a reconnoissance toward Chattanooija 011 the mountain road earlv on the 9th, and instructed General 171- (JIAI'LAIX IlKiHT'S HlSTOh'V (»K THK But before we start, word comes that the rebels are evacuat- ing Chattanooga, so we move at once in tliat direction. There is a grreat rush n(jw to jret to the front. There was not so much of a desire to rush that wa\- awhile ago. Now that the dog is dead, evervbodv wants to get in at the burial. Infantry, artillery, and especial!}' the cavalry, are all in hot haste to get there first. About ten o'clock a. m. we entered the town, the few straggling rebel calvarv clearing out as we approached. We found a few inhabitants, only. Most of them had gone out to the countrv to avoid the shells which had been fired into the town from Wagner's batteries across the river. These citizens returned after our occupancy of the town and showed a desire to make terms of peace. Chattanooga is admirably adapted for a militarv depot, and is a situation easily defended. In the tov/n there are numerous hospitals and large and commodious store houses. Soon after arriving I took occasion to ride about the town. War is sadlv written on ever^'thing and there is a desolate and dilapidated appearance about the streets and iiouses. We camped for the night on a high hill near the banks of the river. Many of our bo^'s availed themselves of the opportunity of taking a bath in the river. I slept that night on a new door which I found at the planing mill near our camp. Bv the wav, I have never yet found the soft side ol a board. Crittenden to send a Brigade up an almost impracticable path, called the N'ickajack Trace, to Siimmertown, a hamlet on the mountain, to reconnoiter the tront'of the mountain, and to hold the main portions of his Corps in readiness to support the troops on reconnoissance, to prevent a sortie of the enemv o\er the nose of Lookout, or to enter Chattanooga should the enemy evacuate or make feel)le resistance. — [ I'm/ Horiu's History of llic Army of tlir C limber hi ml . CHAPTER XIV. Cmc'KAMAU(;A Mo\'EMENTS AND POSITION OF THE ArMV — Crittenden's Corps Moves after Bragg — Stub- born Opposition — Discovery of Rebel Plans — Critical Condition of Rosecrans' Army — Concf;n- TRATING AT LeE & GoRDON's MiLLS OpEXING OF the Battle — Fifty-eighth in the Fight — Charg- ing THE Enemy — Noble Lives Sacrificed — A Night ON THE Battlefield — Changing Position — Battle OF the 20TH — Break in the Lines — Confusion and Disaster — The Rebels Checked — Rose;crans' Army Saved. IN order to more fully understand the situation and the events that are to tbllow, it will be necessary to take a general view of the armv under General Rosecrans. The movements of Crittenden's Corps have already been sufficient! V explained, so we will turn attention to the other two Corps of the army. General Thomas crossed the Tennessee at four different points — Caperton's Ferrv, Bridgeport, mouth of Battle Creek, and Shellmound — and crossing Sand Mountain on converging roads, united in Wills or Lookout Valley, in the vicinity of Trenton. General McCook's 20th Corps crossed the river larthor south and marched over some verv rough roads, crossing Sand Mountain to Vallev Head, at the foot of Lookout Mountain. All these movements, including- those of Crittenden's Corps, previously mentioned, were completed by the 6th of September. The armv of General Rosecrans at that time lay along the western base of Lookout Mountain, tVom W'auhatchie. the position held b\' (reneral Wood's Division. I 70 CHAI'LAIN Jll(iHT"S HlSTOl.'V OF I'MK to X'alle}' Head — McCook's position — a point thirty-tive miles distant. The plan for crossing the river and advanc- ing on the rebel stronghold in Chattanooga had thus far been successtul. and the commanding General had reason to congratulate himself. But the enemv was ye{ in Chatta- nooga, the objective point of the campaign. To dislodge him it would be necessary, either to carrv the point of Look- out Mountain, where there is only a narrow passage between it and the river, or, to cross the mountain through the gaps further south and threaten Bragg's line of communication. .\s the tbrmer scheme seemed to be imjiracticable the plan of crossing the mountain tarther south was adopted. Accordingly, General Thomas and General McCook were ordered to move their commands across the mountain — Thomas to cross bv Frick's, Cooper's and Steven's gaps, and occupy the head of WcLemore's Cove. McCook was to move across the mountain into Broomtown \alley, and to support the cavalry in a reconnoissance against Lafayette and Rome. These movements were all remarkably successful, and resulted in forcing Bragg out of Chattanooga. It was a great victory, and there was great rejoicing in its accom- jilishment with so little sacrifice. There was a general belief among soldiers of Rosecrans' army, that Bragg's army was now in full retreat through Georgia. This opinion was siiared by the people generally, but we all found lu)\v badly we were mistaken a few da\s later. We soon learned, that while Bragg was in Chattanooga he was a less formi- dable foe than when he had thrown his army against Rose- crans', scattered as it \vas among the mountains, tor a distance of nearly t'orU- miles. Bragg was quick to see his advantage, and by his rapid moNcments toward Rome, led Rosecrans to believe, at first, that his em-my was in full retreat, far southward. ( General Rosecrans soon discovered his error, however, and then it was that his own situation became alarming. With his three corps scattered as they were, neither detachment bring within supporting distance FIFTV-KKrHTH INDIANA l.'K(iLAIKNT. 177 of the other, hedt^ed in bv impassable mountains, it did not require much military knowledge to understand how easy it would be for Bragg" to crush each detachment in detail. This was Bragg"s purpose, and, except for a tardiness and a blunder on the part of his own officers, it would most likely haye been accomplished.* The foregoing will suffice for an account of the general moyements of the army, and we may now resume the thread of our story in regard to the moyements of our own K.egi- ment, and the part of the army with which it was more immediately connected. Thursday, September io. — It was in the nature of a surprise to most of us when the orders came to march this morning. About ten o'clock we moved out on the road to * In the effort to defeat Rosecrans in detail, Bragg's first combination was direct against Tliomas; and this fact doubtless saved Crittenden's Corps, which was in air and in no state of preparation to resist the attack of an equal force, much less a great army. McCook's Corps was at the same time in complete insulation at Alpine, and not far from Bragg's army. Thus far the mo\ements of the three columns met the expectations and wishes of the rebel comniander. Crittenden had diverged to the east on the Ringgold road; McCook had advanced far from support, and Thomas had moved directlv toward his armv. His army now comprised about fifty thousand men. He had been joined by two Divisions from Mississippi, and his own estimate placed his infantry at thirty -five thousand men; and almost into the midst of this vast armv Xegley had penetrated. As soon as his head of column had appeared at McLemore's Cove. General Bragg had given orders for a movement in great force against him. At midnight on the 9th, he gave orders to General Hindman to adxance with his Division to Davi^" Cross roads, in Xegley's front, to co-operate with Cleburne's Division and a force of cavalry from Hill's corps. Cleburne being sick and Dug and Cat- lett's Gap being heavily obstructed. CJeneral Hill failed in his part of the combination; but Hindman advanced and was at Morgan's three or four miles from Negley. earlv in the afternoon of the loth. To prevent a mis- carriage of the movement altogether, at eight a. m. General Bragg ordered Buckner with his Corps to join Hindman at NIorgan's three miles from Davis' Cross-roads, and verv near to Negley. Bragg was very urgent in regard to the movement, as he had inferred that the three advancing columns were moving for concentration near his position. To assure success by giv- ing strong support to the forces already in Xegley's front, he directed (ien- eral Polk to send a Division of his Corps to Andei'son's. to cover Hindman during his operations. Fortunately for Xegley and the army there was delay. Hindman propo-ed a change of plan, and in waiting for instructions the dav passed awav. General Bragg refused to modify his orders, and at midnight repeated them with emphasis. Xegley. as has been seen, was still unsupported and in ignorance of the elaborate combination which had been formed to overwhelm and cajiture him, for in addition to the foiu" Di\isions at Morgan's and Anderson's. Walker's corps was ordered to support Cle- burne at Dug Gap. — [I'a// Home's History of flic Army of the Cinii- berhxtid . 17!; CHAPLAIN HKiHT'S HISTORY OF THK Lafayette, passing through Rossville and turning off toward Ringgold. Palmer's and Van Cleve's Divisions are in our advance. Wagner's Brigade, of Wood's Division, was left in Chattanooga as provost guards. We marched about ten miles, camping at night near a new bridge across Chicka- mauga Creek. The rebel cavalry, in large numbers, are near us. This evening they made an attack, dashing into camp and capturing about sixty-tive men belonging to Gen- eral Palmer's Corps. Our Brigade was called into line to resist an attack, but the rebels did not follow it up. Friday, September ii. — ChickcDiiauga ! Name destined to live in historv forever I It is said that the Indian word means "The River of Death." How little did we dream on this loveh' Friday morning that this name, perhaps con- ferred because of some dark Indian tragedies, was soon to be rendered sadly appropriate I How little did the hundreds who bathed themselves in its waters think that it would drink the blood of many of them. Harker's Brigade moved across tlie country to see what the cavahy meant, which hung about us. Buell's Brigade, under the direction of General Wood, moved about two miles farther towards Ringgold. Here we remained until near night. The rebel cavalry still prowled about our lines. At one time they assaulted our train, but were repulsed. An hour by sun we fell in, and marched across the country to the right. We marched for a mile or two along the south side of a range of hills. We then crossed over the ridge, and soon came again to the Chickamauga. The bridge was torn up. A few moments' work repaired it. We were here a mile or two higher up the creek than where we camped the preceding night. We found extensive signs of the rebel cavalry camps of the preceding night. After crossing the bridge there were two roads — one leading to Lafayette and the other to Chattanooga. We took the latter. We con- tined to advance on ti)is road until we defiled into tiie main Chattanooga and Lafayette road. The Brigade then faced boldlv south and marched in the trail of Harker. He had FTFTV-EHrHTH INDIANA J.'ECilMKNT. 17'.) l^een drivini^ the enemy all day. They were in superior numbers, and drove verv stubbornly. But by presenting almost his entire Brigade in a line of skirmishers he suc- ceeded in impressing them with the idea that his force was large. About eleven p. m. we arrived at "Lee and Gordon's Mills," on the Chickamauga River. Tt seemed to me that we marched eight miles. Here we met wonderful, and I have no doubt true, tales of the proximity of the rebels. Bragg, A. P. Hill and Polk had been here the preceding night. The w^hole rebel army was so near that we could see their camp lires and hear their drums. The followincr day we lay about in the sun all day. Palmer and Van Cleve came up in the course of the after- noon and camped beyond the Chickamauga. On Sunday we took up a strong position in line of battle. An attack seems to have been anticipated. In the evening I preached a sermon from Micah iv : 1-4, to a large congre- gation. There was good attention. From Monday to Thursday we maintained the same posi- tion. Palmer and Van Cleve moved to our right, driving the rebels from Crawlish Springs. There was some little skirmishing. Friday, September 18. — This morning I was busily engaged in fixing my tent when orders came to "fall in." The Regiment was ordered into position about eleven or twelve o'clock. The right wing went into an open iield near the bank of the mill pond. The left wing took up a position in the edge of the timber as flankers. The enemy was reported to be approaching in force. A private of the 8th Indiana Battery, by climbing a tree, got a sight of the enemy. ^ Not thinking him reliable Sergeant Alvis was sent up. He saw the enemy come up in force, and on double quick, and pass to the left. A number of shots were fired by the 8th Indiana Ijattery and the 6th Ohio. Van Cleve's Division passed from Crawfish Springs to our left. The enemy continued to move to the left. They crossed ij!(> cHAiM.AiN iii(iiri'"s iiisroin of tiik the Chickamaiiga where we had crossed it ihe preceding Friday. Thev vigoroiisly engaged Minty s and Wilder's Brigades of cavah-\', dri\ing tliem back. Near chirk I went to our Division tield hospital, about one-halt" mile trom Crawtish Springs. While on the wdy niv ears were saluted bv keen and continuous musketry, Ibllowed by loud cheer- ing on our left. I do not know the cause. At the hospital ot the ist and 3d Brigades I found near fifty of Wilder's and Minty's men wounded. Among them was Lieutenant Drury. Chief of Ordnance on Colonel \\'ilder"s statf. His foot had been almost torn otf by a shot, yet he did not dismount. After hunting up Colonel Wilder and reporting to him his condition he rode back to the ambulance. When I saw him iiis leg had been amputated, lie was resting comfortabh'. Saturday, Septembkk 19. — Last night was very cold, I did not rest well, partly on that account, but more on account of my mistriyings lor to-da\'. 1 have been about too much not to know that we are on the eve of a battle. I know also that to us will not necessarily be the victory, because it is us. 1 have eyer\' reason to anticipate a most terrible assault. All nigiit our troops have been passing from right to left. Brannan's Division, and all of General Thomas' Corps changed their position. There was but little lighting early in the daw 1 rode down to the Regiment. I foimd them h'ing in the same position. About twelve I returned to the hospital. On the way I met General Rose- crans, in full gallop, at the head of McCook's Corps. Instantly I saw that he had accepted battle. I told them at the hospital that in thirt^■ minutes the}' might listen for the rattle of musketry. It came. McCook's Corps continued to pass. The hospital was uncovered by these movements. All things were loaded uj") and moved toward ihr tiring. I went with the hospital department. At 2 : 30 p. m. orders came to the 58th Indiana in their position, one-halt mile to liie right of Lee antl ( Gordon's Mills, to call in ]")ickcts and skirmishers. ]")ix'j')aralor\- to going KIFTV-KI(;HTH INDIANA KKii 1 M KN'I'. l»j to the battle, two miles and a halt to their lett. A part came in, and the rest were almost in, when the order was counter- manded. They were sent out a^ain. In a tew minutes thev were again ordered in. Before thev reached the Reg- iment, it liad moved oti' to the scene ot^ action. It went on double quick. The Regiment took position to the let't ot" the road on which we had come on our march to Lee and Gordon's ^Nlills. In their rear were some rail breastworks. In front, on the left, a dw^elling and a stable, a paling garden fence, and other obstructions. The caissons of tw^o batteries were before them, and still in acKance of these the guns of the 8th Indi- ana Batter\' in action. The Regiment was ordered to lie down. Then thev were ordered to fix bayonets. By this time, Davis' men in front were falling back in confusion. The caissons of the two Batteries and two guns came running and turned, pell mell, through our Regimental lines. Several of our men were injured. Our line was sadlv broken. The order was given to charge. The Regiment pressed forward as best the}^ could. But the line could not be maintained, on account of the house, the fence, the stable, and the endless confusion of the hour. But, notwithstanding these obstructions, and the general confusion that reigned about them, the ist Brigade went into the charge with a vim and vigor that would have accom- plished victor}', if such a thing was possible. But it was simply not within the range of possibilities. The men pressed forward as best they could, closing up the line after the obstructions had been passed. Across the road, into an open field they went. The right of the 58th was in the open space, the left Companies advancing in a little skirt of timber. For a few minutes, all was comparativelv quiet in front of our lines. Then the storm bursted. The rebels had pressed the Regiments back on our left flank and upon our right, and now turned with redoubled fury upon our Brigade. Companies B, G and K. on the left of the Regiment, had 1»L> CHAPLAIN llKiHT'S UlSTOlfV OF THK advanced to within a few yards of the enemy, lying upon the ground, before they were discovered. Then the rebels raised up and poured a deadly volley into our ranks. The fire was returned, and tor a few minutes the air was so tilled with smoke that it was impossible to see anyone at a distance of a few feet. The firing was at short range, and the destruction was terrible. Poinding that they were in a trap and without support, our men withdrew in considerable haste and with some contusion, leaving several killed and wounded on the grounds. The right of the Regiment, being in the open field, did not get in such close quarters with the rebels, and consequently did not suffer so much. When Lieu- tenant-Colonel Embree saw the extremelv hazardous situation in which the Regiment was placed, he ordered a retreat. This order w'as heard and obeved bv the right wing of the Regiment, but the Companies of the left wing did not get the order until it was too late to extricate themselves from the deadlv ambuscade in the woods. Within a verv short time, the scattered fragments of the Regiment came together on a new line, which was formed behind the house, where they had first formed. Here thev assisted in repelling a charge of the enemy, and followed them, driving them beyond the road again. In a short time the rebels rallied, and drove us back to our former position. Several charges and counter-charges were made across this field during the afternoon, but without an\- jiermanent advantaofe to either side. At the edtje of the woods, a little distance beyond the house, was a hastilv erected breastwork, made from fence rails. This was the rallying point for our Brigade, and from here there was poured a destructive fire into the ranks of the enemy as they came within range. Colonel Buell, commanding the Brigade, having had two horses shot luider him up to this time, mounted the tem- porar\- breastworks and with hat in hand urged his men to stand their ground. Tlie contest was short. The enem\-, although greatly outnumbering our little torce at tliis point, could not w ithstaiul the galling tin* that was jioured into their FIFTY-EIGHTH INDIANA I{F(il.MKNT. l!i:i ranks at short range. After two or three well directed vol- leys the rebels turned and fied. Colonel Buell then called to his Regiment to follow him in a charge after the retreat- ing enemy. With a wild cheer they leaped over the rail barricade and started. Other Regiments on that part of tlie line joined in the charge, and the enemy was driven back to the w^oods beyond the tield, where we had our first engage- ment of the afternoon ; thus all the ground lost was recov- ered. This was about the last of the lighting that evening except skirmish tiring, which at times became almost equal to a general engagement. Three and sometimes lour Companies of the 58th were required for skirmish duty, while the Regi- ment was lying in line of battle waiting developments of the enemy. About seven o'clock the two opposing armies rested in battle array, each in a condition of watchtulness, but neither with a disposition to continue the tight during the night. It was very certain that Rosecrans' army had all they wanted for that day, and it was equally certain that Bragg' s army was not spoiling for any more tight. Each army was will- ing to wait until next day before renewing the conflict. So we remain resting on our arms during the night. And a terrible night it was ; very cool, and no fires could be per- mitted. All around were the dead and dying. The cries and moans of the wounded are most distressing. The most horrible features of a battle are the experiences of the living soldier on the field the night after the battle. This has been a da^• of sad experience for the 58th Indi- ana. Their losses in killed and wounded have been terrible. Let us go back over the events of the day, and note some of the casualties in our Regiment : Among the mortally wounded was Captain Charles II. Bruce, of Compan^' K, who was as gentle a spirit and as true a patriot as ever fell in Liberty's cause. He tell in the first charge, and died nt'xt dav at the field hospital, while tlie battle still ra^ed all around liim. We left him on oin* liM. CIIAI'LAIX IlKillT'S IIISTOHV OF TMK retreat, with his head at the root of a tree and his blanket wrapped around him. Captain Bruce was only twenty-two vears ot age, and was a tine. looking officer, and a courteous gentleman in every respect. lie served through the three months' service as bugler in the iith Indiana. Was com- missioned 1st Lieutenant in Company K, 58th Indiana, in November, 1861, and a few months afterw^ard w^as promoted to the captaincy. He served for some time as Chief of Ord- nance, on General HascalFs staf^\ Of Captain Bruce's Company of twenty-three non-com- missioned officers and men, three were killed on this same charge. They were Corporal J. C. Reneer, and Privates Alex Knox and Matthew^ Swan. In Company G, Corporal Thomas Dedman, and Privates Obediah Wyatt and William Rock were killed. Company B suffered severely' in this first charge. Pri- vates B. A. Low^ry, Robert L. Wallace, Ham Woods, W. E. Thompson, James W. Cochran, were killed outright, and Corporal Samuel K. Carnahan, John R. Sprowl, and Lieu- tenant James D. Foster were mortally wounded. A number of others were severely wounded in this Company, and several were taken prisoners in this first charge. The loss in Company B was thirty, out ot sixtN'-one officers and men w^ho went into the fight on this ciiarge. Among the killed at other times, during the afternoon, were James A. Broiles, of K ; Kzekiel Boren, of A ; W illiam Robinson, of D. Mortally wounded, Lindsey Holder, of C. William Robinson was perfectly conscious that he would not live, and made several simple requests of his comrades, as to messages to friends, etc. He was taken to the field hospital but told them not to put him in the tent, as that was needed for those w'ho might live. He only asked to be placed in an easy position and given some water. The poor fellow dii'd during the night. Robinson was a great big, large hearted fellow^ somew-hat rougii in his manner, but withal of a gentle disposition. I remember that he once cann' to m^' gate, whili' I was jiastor FIFTV-KKiHTlI IXIUANA I.'FJMMKNT. l!!.-) of the M. E. Church, at Princeton, and gave me live dolUirs towards repairing the church. This was as much as the leading members could be persuaded to give. In giving his life for his country he showed himself a better man than many whose professions are much more loud. Of Company E, Sergeant Gilbert Armstrong, a famous sharpshooter, who sported a Henry rifle, was severely wounded in tiie shoulder. The history of this man is full of thrilling interest. lie was in the Mexican war. He was a Western steamboatman in the meantime. His rill- was a present from his tellow soldiers. AMien lu- was wounded he gave his rifle to Lieutenant H.J. Barnett, of C()mpan\' V. I must not omit to drop a tear to the memory* of "Grant,'' a celebrated flghting cock, belonging to the old sharp- shooter. He had long rode in the ambulance to the exclu- sion of weary men's knapsacks and the annoyance of the sick. He was a great terror to my mare, wiio always passed him on double quick. He was appropriately lel't on the battlefield. When he could be seen no more he was heard to crow. Poor rooster, I tear — nay, hope — he was eaten by some hungr\' soldiers on that fatal frosty night. I was on the field at a late hour of the night, gathering up the wounded. I conducted a train of ambulances to the field and back to the hospital after all the wounded were in. We had one hospital tent up. It was full of suflering men. Lieutenant Drury. who had been hauled about all day in the ambulance with one leg ofl', lay (juietly in one corner. Captain Bruce was about midway on the same side, fully conscious that his end was near. Captain Davis was opposite, seemingh- the worst wounded man in the lent. On every side were men suffering untold agony. Outside of the tent and near the corner were Robinson and Carna- han. Poor Carnahan was mortally wounded in the abdomen. He could not understand wh^' he was not put in the tent, and why his wounds were not dressed. The tent might be of use to some — not to him. His sulferings w ere great. He did not die until next da\- near noon. HU; ( IIAI'L.MX MKiHT'S IIISTOIJV OF TIIK There was a row ot' rail tires in tin- front and rear of the tents, tor the ni^ht was extremely eold tor September. About these lay, or huddled, the sutlering victims of blooch' Chickamanga. Of course amid such scenes there was but little sleep or rest. Such is a feeble account of the doings of mv own Regi- ment on this noted day. May we never see such a dav again. Sunday, September 20. — By request of Doctor Blair, I started earlv with our Rejjimental ambulance, driven bv John Everett, to hunt up our wounded in the various hos- pitals. We first visited Van Cleve's and Palmer's. At the former we ftfund several of our men and took them to our own hospital. We then went to Reynolds and Davis. By this time the battle was already raging. I had hoped that tiie quiet of the Sabbath would not be broken. When I arrived at our hospital, I made out a list of the killed, wounded and missing, as far as I could gain the nec- essary information. Soon wounded men from our Brigade began to arrive. All reported that our men were being driven. None of the 58th were brought in. Two pieces of artillery, which were at the brick house, near Crawfish Springs, were taken to the left. The cavalr\' went out and retvu'ned. About eleven a. ni. the cayalr\- formed immediately in front of tiie hospital, thus indicating that Gordon's Mills had been abandoned by our infantry. It was plain that the cjav was lost, utterly and irretrievabh- lost. What must I do? If I remain with the wounded, and tall into rebel hands, I can not hope for proper treatment, for the rebels utterly despise Yankee preachers. As for leaving, I could not think of doing so without orders, unless I went to the Regiment, and they were driven I knew not where. So I saddled my horse, and "w'aited for something to turn uji." I suppose that it was about twelve m. when Doctor Phelps, of (jeneral Crittenden's stafl', rode u)") and ordered tlial (•\er\- man and thiuLr. that could be, should he FIFTY-EKiHTH INDIANA IfKCilMKNT. 187 moved towards Chattanoojjra h\ tho hill road. It was ]-)ilirul to leave our brave and suffering men in the hands ot' rebels. "You are not going to leave us, are \ou? ' asked the silent and suffering Captain Davis, of Compan\' A. "Can \()u not get an ambulance and take us?" said Ser- geant Keeler, of Company- B, meaning himself and the old sharpshooter, Gilbert Armstrong. I went to see, but never returned to communicate the neg- ative. I never expected to see either of them again. All w^ho could walk w^ere sent forward. The wasfons were loaded up and the train started. Doctors Holtzman and Downe^•, Steward Burch, Anthonv Lindsey and John A. Baldwin remained to care for our wounded. The cavalry left our front and took up the vallev, parallel to the hill road and next Lookout Mountain. It was a motlev train and crowd that moved along the hill road between Crawtish Springs and Missionar^' Ridge. There were M. D.'s in abundance. There were musicians carrviuL!" drums and saxehorns, with tlie usual red rao- to tell the tale of their devotions to the w'ounded. There w^ere parsons, with straight coats and sad faces. Of negroes there were everv shade and size, but the accustomed sfrin was gone I The order w-as "Close up I Close up I" Vn\\ the long train moved slow, like "That iiimimerablc caravan tlial moves To the pale reahns, where each Shall take his chamlier in the silent halls of death." Inhere was no haste and no confusion. You might hear almost anvthing 'S'ou pleased. All kinds of tales were float- ing along the line. It was said at first that we were "going up here to a vallev, where water was plentv. " But we continued on our winding wav until we reached Chatta- nooga. It must have been midnight when the remains of our hospital sought rest on the ground near the Brown hos- pitals. liut let us retiuMi lo the records ol" the 5(Sih Ivegiment for the dav. iJli; CHAIM.UN HKillT'S IIISTOHY OK THK During Saturday niyht the pickets were twice driven in and several shots \\'ere tired by and at the Regiment. But no casualties on our side. At two o'clock a. m. the Regiment moved to a new posi- tion about a mile and a half to the left. Here thev took a place in tlie reserve, and before the dawning of the day the weary soldiers prepared some coffee and partook of a frugal meal, the tirst they had enjoved for nearly twenty-four hours. There had begun to be a feeling that there would be no fighting to-day, but this idea was soon dissipated. Even before all had finished their coffee, orders came to move. The Regiment formed in line and advanced a few hundred 3'ards tow^ards the front. By this time the sun was well up and the atmosphere w^as more pleasant. No sound of a renewal of the battle yet, but it was not long after they got into position until the sounds came echoing over the hills from the left, telling that "the battle was on once more." The intention was to issue rations to the Regiment here, and the work had partly begun, w^hen orders came to move on up to the line ot battle in our tVont. In the meantime, details were made from each Compan\^ to draw the rations and follow on after the Regiment. This they attempted to do, but failed on account of a disaster that fell upon that part of our lines shortly alter. As it turned out the rations were lost and some of the detail were captured. But this is anticipating. In obedience to ordt^rs, (jeneral W Oods I)i\ision moxiul up and took j^osition in line of batlU\ filling a phun^ thai had been occupied bv (xeneral Negle\"s Division. A teniporar\' breastwork of rails and logs had been constructed ah)ng the edge of a woods, overlooking a field and a woods beyond. We took a position behind this rude detence and threw out a line of skirmishers. It was not long until they developed the enem\-. lie was across in the opposite woods in large numbers. Vov some time heavy liring betwecMi oui" skir- mishers and the rebt'l line was ke]")t up. but no achanee was FJFTY-EIGHTH INDIANA HEGIMENT. 189 made. Away to the left, General Thomas' Corps was seri- ousl}' engaged, as was evident from the roar of artiller}'^ and mvisketry. News came that Thomas was heavily pressed, and all available troops were sent to his assistance. Still evervthing was comparatively quiet in our front. But our time was coming. After an hour or so of desultory skir- mish firing. General Wood ordered the Brigade to follow the Division in a movement to close up on Reynolds. This move was in obedience to a written order from General Rosecrans, but it was given by the commanding General under a misapprehension of the facts. It was a serious mis- take, as we shall see.* Lieutenant Zack Jones, of Colonel Buell's statT, was sent to the officer in command of our skirmishers with an order to have them retire to the line of battle, and rejoin the Regi- ment, which was then on the move. The skirmishers were accordingly called in and started after the Regiment. But this movement was observed by the enemy and they quickly * Following is a copy of the order to General Wood: Headqlarters Department of the Cumberland, ) September 20, 10:45 a. m. \ Brii^adicr-Gcucral Wood, Command hig Difisiou : The General commanding directs that you close up on Reynolds as fast as possible, and support him. Respectfully, etc., FRANK S. BOND, Major and Aid de Camp. Concerning this movement, V'ati Homes History of the Army of the Cumberland, \o\. i, page 347, says: Regarding this order as too explicit in requirement, and too imperati\ e in tone to warrant any discretion as to obedience. General Wood withdrew his Division with promptness. Mis left was aligned with Brannan's right, and he saw no wav to close upon Reynolds but to withdraw from line and pass to the left, in the rear of Brannan. Having advised General McCook that tiiis change would be made. General Wood moved his Di\ision rajiidly from line. Brannan was not out of line, Reynolds was not under pressure, and W^ood moved from line at the \ery moment of the enemy's attack. General Davis threw his reser\e Brigade toward the wide vacant space, but the heavy columns of the enemy were soon upon it, and Davis' two small Brig- ades were speedily enveloped. His troops resisted bravely, but assaulted in front, flank, and rear, they were lifted from position and hurled in fragments toward Missionary Ridge. The attack and issue were too sudden for Lai- boldt to move to his assistance, and the latter was quickly routed. Buell's Brigade, of Wood's Division, the last to leave position, was severed as it retired, and Brannan's was struck in flank. 100 CHAPLAIN HIGHT'S HISTOKV OF THE took advantage of it. There was a gap in the line lett bv Wood's Division moving out. When the skirmishers reached the line the enemy was close after them. The few scattering men attempted to hold back the great mass of rebels that pressed onto them, but it was useless. Our lines were broken, and the divisions on either side of tiie gap were struck in the liank, and thrown into confusion. Imme- diately the broken columns were thrown into a state border- ing on a panic. In the rear of our lines there was an open field, with a gradual slope to the center and a grad- ual ascent to a piece of timber on tlie opposite side. Across this field our broken columns were fiving, in utter demorali- zation. There were men, horses without riders, sections of artillerv, and the various other appoint- ments of an arm\-, all rusiiing in a contused and indiscriminate race for a place of safety. In the meantime the rebels had advanced their lines to the ridge where we had been, and liad turned uj")on us the guns which they had captured. vShot and shell, and cannister, screamed and shrieked over the flving fugitives, making a scene, and causing sounds in which ihc ver\- demons of the infernal regions might well find delight. But it was a sad and sorrowful sight for loval, union loving people. So far as one could see who was in the midst ot it, the rout involved the whole of General Rosecrans' magnificent army, and it * Killed near ^'iIK'_varcl house. Se|>t. 19, 186^. I'or sketch see page 1S3. C AI'TAIN CIIAS. 71. nRl^CE, CO. K .* FIFTY-EIGHTH INDIANA «E(iIMENT. 1 !i 1 seemed our cause was lost. It was not a question of the sacrifice of one life or many lives at such a time, but was whether there was any sacrifice sufficient to stay the impend- ing ruin. But, Ibrtunately, things were not as bad as they appeared. Things seldom are. Certainly they might have been worse in this instance. The rebels might have followed on after our broken and demoralized troops, instead of stopping on the ridge, and contenting themselves with throwing shells after them. Shells make a terrible noise and are somewhat frightful, but thev are not dangerous, in proportion to their size and sound. They serve a useful purpose, in more thoroughly scaring a body of demoralized troops, but a scared soldier is apt to be more useful than a dead one. "He who fights and runs a\va_\'. May live to fight another day."" It was that wa^' in this case. The most of these were ready to tight again, and much harder, and much more effectively, this same day. By the time the}- reached the edofc of the woods, on the other side of the field, the dis- ordered troops had, in a measure, recovered from their panic. As broken Regiments and Brigades found each other, and regained their position in line, their old con- fidence returned, and they were again read}' to meet the enemy. For a time the 58th was separated from the other Regi- ments of the Brigade, but there was never a time when the organization was not in a condition for service, and under proper discipline. There were individuals and parts of Com- panies, who were for a time separated from the Regiment, but in the main, it ma^' truthfully be said, the organization of the 58th was intact during the day. After being caught in the whirlwind that sent the great mass of our troops back across that field, the 58th rallied on the opposite hill, and took a position in the new line of battle that was there formed. Here they held the rebels at bay and stopped their mad progress in that direction. 192 CHArLALN EIGHT'S HiSTOia OF THE The Regiment had some sharp engagements during the time thev were on this part of the held. In one of these Lieutenant Hugh J. Barnett, of Company F, was mortally wounded. He was leading a detachment of the Regiment in a charge when he fell. Poor Barnett lay where he fell for five davs before death relieved him of his suffering, as we afterward learned. At the time he was sliot he had the Henry rifle, belonging to Gilbert Armstrong, wlio was wounded yesterday. The rebels took the gun and all his clothing and valuables, but did not render any assistance to the wounded man. They did not even bur^' him after he was dead, but left the body to decay above ground. There is but one place where such heartlessness as tliis can be properly rewarded . Lieutenant Barnett was one of our best and bravest men. He was full of life and fun, and did much to drive away the despondency and gloom of a soldier's life. He was known b^' every man in the Regiment and was well liked by all. He was a moral, upright christian man, and active in religious work in the Regiment. Later in the afternoon, the 58th was tbrmed in a low piece of ground, about a half mile from their former position. They were ordered to ad\'ance in a line supporting a battery. At this time there appeared in their front at least a Brigade of men, dressed in dark clotliing, and with battle flags some- what like ours. Thev came up in good order, bayonets fixed, and guns at "right shoulder shift." A discussion arose among our officers as to who these troops were, whether friends or foes. Colonel Embree and another Col- onel contended that they were enemies. Some of the line officers and men thought they were friends ; but the former opinion was correct, as was soon demonstrated. The^■ proved to be a jiortion ot J^ongstreet's Corps, whicli liad just arrived from \'irginia. Our men were not accus- tomed to seeing their enemies in any otlier dress than the reg- ulation butternut. 15ut the troojis under discussion soon con- vinced everyone of their truf character by pomnng a Nolley FIFTY-EIGHTH INDIANA REGIMENT. 11);) into our ranks. Many of our men were wounded b\- this volle3% and two or three killed. Our men returned the tire in a vigorous manner, but the enemy continued to press tor- ward. Soon another force came up on our right flank, and the position became untenable. The Regiment fell back and rallied again on the colors, on a hill Rome\vhat to tlie left and rear of our former position. In this movement a part of the Regiment became separated iVom tlie others, and on account of the confusion of the hour the detachments could not be gotten together for some time. However, b\' this time the contest on that part of the tield had become a kind of a free fight, and there was no difficulty in a soldier, who was so inclined, finding a situation w-here he could get all the fighting he could attend to. It was a fact, that some of the best and most effective fighting that was done that afternoon, was by detached bodies of troops that liad been separated from their commands. Some of the 58th officers and men, that were thus cut off, did excellent service in this w^ay. To these men, wuth others, who were tiius engaged, is due a full share of the credit of saving tlie arm^' from a greater disaster. The Regiment rallied again and took position in a line further to the left, on Snodgrass Hill. Here the remnants of Wood's Division, and the detachments of the left wing, joined the forces of General Thomas, and here, under tlie command of that intrepid soldier, the rebel advance was checked. It was between one and two o'clock when the 58th Regiment got into this position. At that time the right wing was thoroughly routed. General Rosecrans was caught in the whirlwind and borne back into Chattanooga, as was also Crittenden and McCook. Such of the broken Divisions as could do so, found their wav to join the left, which was still being held by Thomas. Upon this position assault after assault was made, but our lines could not be broken. Some of the severest fighting of the two days' bat- tle was done here, but the losses were heaviest with the enemy. 194 CHAPLAIN HKIHT'S HISTOEY OF THE About lour o'clock, the ammunition of our Regiment was exhausted. Colonel Buell started back with the Regiment to hunt ammunition to replenish the cartridge boxes. He was met by General Branham, who informed him there was no ammunition to be had. Colonel Buell was ordered to hold the hill at all hazards — even at the point of the bayonet. By searching among the cartridge boxes of the dead, enough ammunition was found to make about one round per man in our Regiment. The guns were loaded, and the men waited for the next attack ot the rebels. They were now read}' for desperate work. They did not have long to wait. Soon the enemy appeared in massed columns. They marched boldly up the hillside, until they were within thirty yards of our men. Not a gun had yet been tired by either side. A demand was made by an officer in our Regiment Ibr the rebels to surrender. A like demand came iVom the rebel side, with the threat that if we did not surrender the}^ would fire on us. At this, our men opened lire on them, pouring their last round into the rebel ranks. This voile v did fear- ful execution. The rebels retreated in great haste, leaving many of their dead and wounded on the ground. This about ended the lighting for the dav, so far as our Regiment was concerned. By this time it was nearly dark, and both sides were ready to quit, for, in reality, both sides had had enough of fighting. The 58th was moved back a short distance to the rear, awd then, under cover of the dark- ness, the remnants of the Brigade was marched, througii fields and woods, to their new position in the line, on the left of Rossville. Here the men had an opportunity for a few hours' rest and sleep. During the night the entire army was concentrated at this point, and were in good shape to give the rebels a warm welcome next morning. But they did not come. All da\' Monday we waited their approach, but only a small force of cavalry showed an inclination to make us a visit. From this fact, it was plainly evident that Bragg's arm\- liad no disposition to renew the conflict. FIFTY-EIGHTH INDIANA REGIMENT. 111.) During Moncki}' night Rosecrans' army was moved back into Chattanooga. The 58th was left as a part of a strong- line of skirmishers to cover this movement. It was fully expected, b}' our officers, that this rear guard would be gob- bled up by the rebels in the morning. General Wood expressed surprise when Major Moore, in command of the 58th skirmishers, reported to him in Chattanooga next morn- ing. Wood said he did not expect to see us. Tlius it was that the 58th Indiana was among the tirst Regiments on the held of Chickamauga, and one of the last to leave it. Early in the engagement it was put into the thickest of the hght and it remained there until the finish. With its last round of ammunition, it assisted in repelling the last charge of the enemy on Snodgrass Hill ; and it had the proud satisfaction of being numbered with the troops, under the command of George H, Thomas, ''the Rock of Chicka- mauga," that saved the "Armv of the Cumberland," on this Sunday afternoon. Ovu" losses in the two davs' battle were as follows : Enlisted Officers Men Total Killed 2 14 iC) Wounded 5 116 121 Missing 1 24 2-:, Captured 279 Total 10 161 171 The greater part of these losses occurred Saturday after- noon, in the Regiment's tirst engagement, near the Vineyard house. The captured officers were the two surgeons left with the wounded at the hospital when the army fell back on Sunday. Some of the enlisted men were captured at that time and others were captured on anotlier part of the field. Mention has been made of tiie killing of Lieutenant James D. Foster, of Company B, in the first engagement of the Regiment on Saturday afternoon. As a matter of fact, it was not known certainly as to his fate Ibr some days after- ward. No one saw him fall, or knew certainlv tliat he was 100 CHAPLAIN HKrHT'S HISTORY OF THE killed. For a time there was a lingering hope that he might turn up among the wounded and missing. But he was never seen or heard of afterward, and it is evident that he died unknown, and hlls an unknown grave somewhere on the field of Chickamauga, if, indeed, his bodv was honored witli sepulture at all. Lieutenant Foster was a most genial man, and a ver\- pop- ular officer. He was always cheerful, and usually of a very quiet demeanor. His home was in Fort Branch, Indiana, and he was among the tirst citizens of his town to tender his services, and his lite, it need be, in sustaining the Govern- ment. Through his influence, many of the boys and young men of his acquaintance were induced to enter the arm v. He alwa3^s had a kindly, watchful oversight of these boys, and thev are indebted to him tor much good counsel and advice. He was an earnest Christian man, as well as a brave and unselfish patriot. With him, to know a dutv, either to his fellow man, his countrv or his God, was to do that duty, so far as he was able. The loss of such a man as Lieutenant James D. Foster to our Regiment was irrepa- rable. But to him what a wondrous change I From the horrid scenes of Chickamauga's bloody battlefield, to the realms of bliss and everlasting peace, on Heaven's bright shore. — oOe« CHAPTER XV. Seige of Chattanooga — Falling Back from Rossville — Evidences of Demoralization — Preparations FOR Defence — Chattanooga will be Held — Re- organization — Getting in Position — Rebel Dem- strations from missionary ridge and lookout Mountain — Short of Rations — A Battle at Night. M ENTION has been made of the movements of the hos- pital, and of the fact that I came with this department of the army into Chattanooga, Sundav night. On Monday I started out to see and learn what I could as to the situa- tion. I found that great crowds of men, some slightly w'ounded, and some stragglers, were on the streets, all mov- ing toward the river. At the river I saw the pontoon bridge, at the time, crowded with rebel prisoners crossing over. I confess I was surprised at their number. Tow^ard noon I went out to hunt the Regiment, then near Rossville. I found them in a very good positi i and seemingly able to hold it against the enemy, who w in force just beyond, and making their presence known bv eavv cannonading. Returning to quarters in Cha looga that night, I went to rest, the tirst I had enjoved f several da vs. Next morning I was surprisf o hear that the 58th was in town. This information ^ discouraging to me, as it seemed to signify the abando nt of our strong position on Missionary Ridge. My v fears were confirmed on going down town. Rose* ' entire armv was in and iy« CHAPLAIN MIGHT'S HISTOBY OF THK alioiit Chattanooga. From what I could see there was an effort being made to cross the river. I knew we could not all get over on the one pontoon bridge. Soon I came upon the 58th. Thev were just moving to the front and left, and I went with tiiem. I supposed, as Wood's Division was on prov'ost dutv in Chattanooga, that we were, probably, taking a position to cover the retreat of Rosecrans' army across the river, and we would have to take our chances to get over after all the other troops had crossed. It was a gloomy outlook, but all the signs tended to contirm it. The orders were to move every wagon and all the wounded over the river. The streets were crowded with a moving mass headed toward the bridge. It seemed everybody wanted to get over first : on the theory that all were going, and the rebels would get the hindmost. If, at this particular juncture, the rebels had thrown a few shells in town, I am sure there would have been a panic, and, probably, some of the panic stricken w^ould have plunged headlong into the river. But, fortunatel}^, the rebel shells did not come ; and, more- over, mv conceptions as to the meaning of the movements of the army were not well founded. Rosecrans' army was not going to abandon Chattanooga, just yet, but was getting in position to stay there, indefinitely. While our hospitals were being established across the river the fighting portion of the arm}' was intrenching. They had, temporarily, laid aside the gun for the pick and the shovel. There were two uniinished forts, started bv Bragg's arm\- before tiieir evac- uation. These were to be immediately completed and occu- pied bv our men. Between these torts a formidable line of rifle pits were being rapidly constructed. Every one who could handle a tool, or move dirt, was at it this day and night. This is an emergency in wliicii a soldier will work. All day Tuesdav, the 22d, I^ragg's army was expected to make its appearance on Missionary Ridge, but it came not. The hours pass, the work in the rifle pits goes bravely on. By night the preparation for defence had so far progressed that Bragg would have tound trouble in abundance if he had FIFTY-inCiHTH INDIANA REGIMENT. lit!) tried to come in. More than this, the spirit of our army was revived and the men were impressed wath a determination to stay . On the morning of the 23d General Rosecrans rode around tlie lines and examined the works. He said to tiie men : "We did not come here to hght the whole Southern confed- eracy, but now, if they want to, let them come on. We are readv for them." "Old Rosey," as the boys called him, was received evervwhere with great enthusiasm. During the week following this the 58th shifted its posi- tion several times, and finally was posted in line to the right of Fort Wood. Tlie rebel army was posted along Mission- ary Ridge and across the valley to Lookout Mountain, com- pletelv encircling the town. The two armies are in plain view of each other, and occasionally some shot and shell are exchanged. But no serious damage w'as done on either side. Our picket lines were close to the enemy and at first picket firing was freely indulged in. Soon this became monotonous and annoying, without accompanying benefit, and, by mutual consent, a truce was declared. The blue and the grav maintained a condition of friendly intercourse, often meeting between the lines to exchange coffee and tobacco, etc. Sunday, October 4. — This was a very blustery day. Bad for out-door preaching, but it was either that or noth- ing. Our preaching services have been interrupted for some time, for sufficient reason. To-da}', Rev. Thompson, Chap- lain of the 64th Ohio, preached in our camp, on "Thou Shalt Love Thy Neighbor as Thyself," Some, whose logical abilities are rather poor, thought he advocated "nigger equality." But he simply advocated the principle of dealing justly, even wuth the lowlv negroes, and his argu- ment was good. In the evening I preached on tlie propriety of improving the lessons constantlv presented to the soldier. We thus imitate Jesus, who drew lessons of morality from every object that was presented to him. There are many helps to 200 CHAPLAIN HTGHT'S HISTOKV OF THE Christianity in the experience of the soldier. From the change ot dress of the citizen to the uniform of the soldier he should learn to have his "garments washed and made white in the blood of the Lamb."' When he becomes a sol- dier, he must give up the rights of a citizen, and submit to be governed bv the military authorities. So, in becoming a Christian one must bring his will into subjection to God. In entering the army, we must be instructed in military tac- tics and experience. So if vou would be a Christian, vou must be a disciple. An armv must exercise constant watchfulness. So must the Christian. An armv must have an uninterrupted base of supplies, and draw thence subsistence for man and beast. The Christian must draw his supplies of grace, day by day, tVom God. He can not live without his spiritual rations. Courafjc must be a characteristic of both soldier and CIums- tian. The soldier must be read\' to march at a moment's notice. He must not be encumbered with useless baggage. So must the Christian be readv for death. The presence of death among us ought to impress on our minds, "Be ye also ready . ' ' A long train of ambulances started this morning, with wounded, for Bridgeport. The authorities seem to antici- pate some danger, for thev are moving the wounded back, without regard to lite or limb. l^oor Captain Davis was sent off; I know not whv. I am at raid that it will kill him. All the wounded of our Regiment, on this side of the river, except Chew, Steward, Lockwood, Lounsdale, Rosebor- ougli, Grav and Singleton, were taken off on this train. We have about twentv wounded on the other side of tlie Tennes- see River, at the Held hospital. Monday, Octohkk 5. — The dull monotonv of the siege of Chattanooga was broken at about eleven a. m. by a rebel shell bursting on the picket line in front of Fort Negley. The pickets maintained their position, but llie stragglers retreated in (food order. Another shell fell nc^ar the lort. FlFTY-EKiHTH INDIANA HIXilMENT. 201 Another reached General Rosecrans' headquarters. One bursted just in front of our Regiment. Bv this time they came plentifully along the whole line. Our guns responded slowly, and at long intervals, as if to say, "The Yankees are still here, but are not anxious for a tiKV OF THK headquarters. Five wagons were sent to move us. These were loaded uj"). 15 v this time the order came to remain where w^e were until further orders. And so we did remain. It continued to rain. We sat about decaying camp tires, made sad attempts at wit, and spun most miserable tales, to keep our spirits up. When the bugle sounded the dinner call, w'e were ordered to unload the w^agons and pitch tents. And such a hammering and banging I The men worked away lively in the rain, that thev might have a little com- fort. Such moves as this are very disgusting. The move was evidently deferred on account of the weather. But the Gen- eral did not make the discovery until the tents were all dow^n. Then the men must be \ei\ standing a half dav in the rain, while the question is being discussed whether it would not be better to move, since things had gone thus far. Some of our officers must be like Indians — sleep on every proposition before deciding. Wednesday, Octoher 14. — It has been raining all da\- and all night. Men very hungrv, tor thev onh' have two- third rations. Manv horses and mules dying through starv- ation. Railroad in rear torn up. Reinforcements coming. Thursday, October 15. — We had a terrible storm of wind and rain last night. Mv tent is just upon the edge of a deep cut in the railway. I w'as very fearful it would go over. The rain continued until near night. There has been much cheering in the armv, to-day, over the defeat of \ allandingham in Ohio. Friday, Ocioi'.er 16. — The men lor some weeks have been on two-thirds rations. Now the ordi'r is lull rations ol bread, and half rations of other things. Tlie\- are to get no meat except beef. If one will bear in mind that the cattle are about starved, he may see at once what a miserable kind of food their flesh must be. The men have sutl'ered much hunger n>centh-. Oiu" horses are now getting ten ears ot corn each dav. The ears are ver\- small, compared with corn in the North. Man^• horses and mules liave died of FIFTV-KKiHTH INDIANA KKCiDIKNT. 203 starvation. We are now in a state of siege. Our supplies have not all been cut off. I hope General Hooker will suc- ceed in opening up communication and raising the siege. I called, in mv visits, first, on George H. Singleton, of Company H, at General Hospital No. 3, room 39. This hospital was formerly the Crutchlield House. It is a largt\ roomy structure, reaching from street to street. Singleton's wound is through the calf of the right leg. He is doing well. He is able to go home. I next called on William (Tra^', of Company F, at General Hospital No. 2. His left leg is off. He is suffering greatly. In Hospital No. i. Ward H, I found Joel L. Evans, of Compan^^ (j, and Rose- borough, of B. Evans is wounded in the abdomen, but the cavity was not penetrated. He seems to be resting comfort- ably. Roseborough looks pale, but is recovering. There were several men dying in this ward. An old gray headed man, of the 4th Kentucky, whose leg was amputated, had died since I was here last. I called on John G. Lounsdale, of Compan^• B, in Ward "L."' His wovind, which was a very dangerous shot throup'h tiie neck, is healino- finely. Lounsdale looks like a cry r^ - youtli of seventeen. It was on the first charge of the sStii Indiana that he was wounded. He was iroino- forward witii- out anticipating any danger, though men were falling all around. Suddenly he was shot, before he had fired a sincrle round. His first impression was that he was killed. He tried to move, but could not. He was then more confident than ever that lie was killed. "It came to my mind, ' said he, ''to get up ; but then I tiiought I was dead, and I might as well lie still. There was no use getting up, if I were dead I" After a little time, he succeeded in raising his head. He discovered his companions just ahead of him. Gilbert R, Stormont, who was by his side when he was shot, carried him from the field to an ambulance. W'hen the Regiment tell back he was placed in our Regimental hospital tent. He remained there until our second and last train of ambulances were sent through the rebel lines. He 204- CHArLALN HlOH'fS HISTOKY OF THE was then brought up and placed in Wood's Division hos- pital ; he was afterward moved to his present place. I think he will soon be well. In Ward "M" I called on Richard Steward, of Companv K, and Lockwood, of Company B. Both of these soldiers are restless and impatient. Steward is severely wounded — jiainfallv so. Lockwood is shot through the side. lie seems to be getting worse. He is even threatened \\ ith con- sumption. He is very homesick. In Ward "O'' I called on Joe Chew, of Company C. His foot was penetrated by a ball and some of the bones fractured. The ball and some pieces of bones have been recently removed. The surgeon now hopes to save his foot. Chew is a very reckless young man. These are all the wounded men v.e have in Chattanooga. In returning home I passed through the lines of the 14th Corps. Their works are very strong, considering that there is nothing in the nature of the ground to render their position a good one. By the way, our position here is a poor one. Lookout Mountain and Missionary Ridge, held by the enemy, com- mands every inch we hold, including the bridges across the Tennessee. TuESDAV, October 20. — We again had orders to move camp betbre daylight. We were ready, accordingly, and about seven a. m. we moved. After all oiu' Generals did not know where we were going. Up to yesterday they designed placing us on the hill on the extreme right. But General Sheridan was ordered toward the left. At first our little piece of a Brigade moved toward the Catholic Chinx'h. We lav b\- the Baptist church for a good whiU', until (General Sheridan and Wagner lixed the place of encampment. We then took our place on Signal Hill. This is a splendid place, in the very heart of the fortress of Chattanooga. Wednesday evening I attended services at the Baptist Church, near our camp. These ser\ices are conducted by the I'. J>. Cliristian Commission. Rev. Mr. Hiofh. from FIFTY-EKIHTH INDIANA KIXIIMENT. -JOT) "away down East," was praying when I entered. He has quite a Yankee aftVctation in his speech, so that at times it is difficult to understand him. He has long hair — falling upon the collar of his coat. After prayer, about one hour was spent in talking on religion, by the men present. One fellow said that one day, when he was plowing, "a still small voice" came to him and told him that he was not prepared to die. He felt bad about one year. One night he had pleasant dreams. Next morning he felt all right. I suppose he must be a Hardshell Baptist. I believe thev can dream away sin. Most of the speaking was in good taste. Lieutenant-Colonel Embree, having resigned, left the Regiment Saturday morning for his home. He made a short farewell address to the Regiment before leaving, stating, that on account of the recent death of his father and also his wife, it was necessary for him to leave the arm}', to look after business requiring his attention at home, tie regretted very much that he had to leave the Regiment, with whom he had been so long associated. He complimented the men on tiieir discipline and their bravery, tested on many occasions, and invoked the blessings ot Heaven to rest upon them. He expressed the hope, that when they returned to their homes, they mig-ht find their domestic circles unbroken. Colonel Embree has the respect and good will of every man in the Regiment, and we are sorry to have him leave us. Sunday, October 25. — General Palmer's Division moved across and down the Tennessee. The 58th and 57th Indiana, and 26th and 97th Ohio, and perhaps some other Regiments, moved out to take the place made vacant on the line. This leaves our camp very thinly inhabited. I was awakened at five minutes before one o'clock, on the morning of the 27th, dreaming of cannon, and with the sound of heavy cannonading in my ears. Pulling on my boots, I stepped to the door of my shanty. Beyond Look- out Mountain, there was heavy cannonading and musketry. I soon retired to bed, as the night was cold. But the sound ot l:)attle continued, and I again arose, and listened until 206 CHATLAIX HKiHT'S HISTOIfY OF THE about thrre a. m. I then fell asleeji. I am ii^norant of tlio cause of this li(rhtinir. We have had a thousand rumors to-dav, but notliin:r i. — I went out to mv Regiment, in front ot" l•^)^l Pahnt'r, and jireached at nine a. m. from Psalm I. 1-4. I wore m\' hat during preaching, a tiling I am seldom compelled to do. The iieat of' the sun r(U|uired il lo-da\-. FIFTV-KKiHTH IXDIAXA IfKUIMEXT. "iOT General Hooker has come up the river on this bank to Lookout Valley. Here he defeated the rebels, in the battle I heard a few nights since, and opened communication with Hazen's Brigade, which affected a landing on the south bank, and laid a pontoon across the river on last Tuesday morning. Thus, b}' crossing at Shellmound, Battle Creek, or Bridgeport, and coming up the left bank of the river to Lookout Valley, then recrossing to the right bank and cross- ing at Chattanooga, we have a better route than over Wal- den's Ridge. Bv the way, the rebels keep booming away from the top of Lookout. I infer that they are determined to break this new line. We have a few little steamers that liegan running to a point six miles below here last night. This tills us with hope for rations tor the future. If our efforts to open this line had tailed during tiie past week, this Sabbath day would have seen Chattanooga in rebel hands, and the Yankees in full retreat. No rations, exxept a little poor beef, were issued to the men this day, until after night. Thev then received about one-half of a cracker each. Poor fellows I They suffer greatlv, and many of them are very weak. Most of them bear up nobly. A few talk and act childish, Monday, November 2. — The bridge across the Tennes- see was cut yesterday afternoon, and is not yet repaired. No rations, except beef, were issued vmtil near night. I fmd m^•self weak this afternoon for want of food. The rebels are digging rifle pits in sight of Fort Negley. Our cannons tire at them, without accomplishing anything. Three shots from Lookout came thundering into the very lieart of Chattanooga this afternoon. Thev can not reach us. An attack seems to liave been anticipated at night. Tiie men were under arms. We had an excellent sermon, and a poor meeting, at the Baptist church, with white men for a congregation and negroes for mourners. Things were prettv well mixed up. e\'en more than I care about, and all niv friends know what 208 ( HAT'LAIN EIGHT'S HISTOKV OF THE a great Aliolitionist I am. T despise caste, and believe in lov- ing all men, and yet I doubt the propriety of that tamiliarit^• that breeds contempt. The negroes ought to have religion, and I am in lor holding a meeting for them. \\ hen we get to heaven, languages, conditions, and color, and all things else that do and must separate men, shall disappear. Amen. Lieutenant William Adams, of Company H, having had his resignation accepted, left us on yesterday. Shorth- after I came to the Regiment, he was made Sergeant-Major. At Stone River, he fought as Lieutenant, but was not commis- sioned until afterward. He was wounded in the heel in that engagement, and enjoyed a furlough. At the battle of Chickamauga he was sick, but, nevertheless, did his whole duty on the field. He then went to Nashville, and spent some weeks in the hospital. He procured the acceptance of his resignation by obtaining an endorsement from the Regi- mental commander. Thursday, November 5. — Lieutenants Mason and Wood took a detail of forty men, with four da^^s' rations, and went as guards for a forage train. Captain George AVhitman has resigned, and left lor home about twelve m. to-day. T am truly sorry to -see the Captain go. We have lost a good soldier. I liear that his wife li(.\s at death's door. It is this that leads liim homeward. We have had luit little cannonading. Most of it was done by the rebc>ls. It w^as Fort Lookout liring at Moccasin. in one ot my strolls about Chattanooga, T turned aside and stood on Cameron Hill, the place where our ReginuMit bivouacked thi' night after our tirst entr\- into Chattanooga, Septemiier 9th. How changed the scene now, as compared to that of two months ago I Then this place was a 'grove of forest trees. Now' every tree has been cut down. Then summer cowmxhI all with green. Now natiu'e seemed dead, and the trees lealless. Then a few forts without guns con- stituted tiie stronghold : now bristling ramparts in every val- ley, and grim torts on everA' hill, t'orni a grand fortress. A FTFTY-EIGHTH IXDTAXA Ur.GTMENT. lM»'.» CAPTAIN WILLIAM E. CIIAPPEL Was nuistercci in as l-"irst Lieutenant of Company I, Decenildt'r 16, 1S61, and continued as such until April 6, 1S63, when he was promoted to the Captaincv of tlie Compan\-. 1 le lonnnanded the Compan\- the remainder of the time and was mustered out with tlic Regiment. After leaving the arinj he returned to his occupation of farming, in which he has heen quite successful. He is now living on his farm near Algiers, Pike comity, Indiana. Captain Chappel is one of the most active members of the 5Sth Indian.i Regimental Association, and is in hearl\- s_\-m])athy with everv movement that tends to perpetuate the deeds of that Regiment. lie was the first to tender material aid for the publication of this work. 210 (iiAPLAix iii(iii'i'"s iiis'roh'v OF tin: few straggling inhabitants, and a few hundreds of Yankee troops, were all the living beings then in view. Now there are teeming thousands of soldier}^ There are some houses less, but a million tents more. Away yonder, where one could then see naught but the green forest of Missionarv Ridge, now can be viewed the white tents of the rebels. And old Lookout, which then was in our hands, now reflects the rays of the setting sun, and thunders from its storm- beaten crags and rockv summit, on the Yankee hosts below, ^till winds the Tennessee in its wonted channel, though swollen by recent rains. Awav to mv right is tJie smoke of Hooker's encampments. What changes will another two months bring? Saturday, November 7. — Our men at Fort Palmer were relieved by Hazen's Brigade. General Wagner has been relieved of the command of the post. Sunday, November 8. — This is a chillv dav. Four Companies, B, G, K and E, were ordered to move their tents. This makes fine Sundav work. Colonel Buckner, of the 79th Illinois Volunteers, preached a short sermon, at three p. m., to my Regiment. The Regiment was paid for four months' service, on the 13th. A recruiting party, detailed from each Company, started north. This party was in command of Captain Cain. with Captain W. E. Chappel next in command. -^CS^M-X^^ CHAPTER XVI, Battle of Missionary Ridge — Record of Events Pre- ceding THAT Engagement — Hooker's Battee Above the Clouds — The Star Spangled Banner Waves o\'er Lookout Mountain — SHER^L\N's Suc- cess ON the Left — Cheering Prospp:ct for the Union Army — Army of the Cumbp:rland Advances — Magnificent Pageant — Chargin(; the Rebel Rifle Pits — Onward and Upward, Without Or- ders — Crest of 'jhe Riijge Gained — Bra(J(;'s Forces Routed — The Victory is Complete — Casu- alties OF the FlF'l"Y-ia(JHTH. SHARP musketry and cunnonacling, seeminu-lv across tlu' river to our left, awakened me earh' Tuesdav morning, November i 7. Those better acquainted with the river said it was on the river. From the best information 1 could obtain, it was the rebels shelling the camp of the 125th Illinois. The Chaplain was killed. I thought at hrst tliat our men were trying to cross to the south bank for the purpose of flanking the rebels. This is m\' plan tor raising the siege of Ciiattanooga. In the afternoon, I walked througii General Hospital No. 4. This is in the building formerlv occuj^ieil by General Wood's Division hospital. It is now tixed uji very comfortably. In it have been placed most of the wounded ones who are still unable to bear the transportation north. Most of them are sorely injured, and manv must die. They have now been Iving for sixty davs, and are still unable to ride in the ambulance. Tlie carrying on stretchers killed some. I found a number of mv old Ward *'0 ' friends. Wednesday, November 18. — Signal Hill, Chattanooga. The 58th went on picket ; I remained in camp. We had one of the heaviest fon-s I ever saw. It was so thick at ten a. 212 ("HAPLATX HKiHT'S HTSTOEY OF THE m. that an object could not be seen a few Awards off. At twelve m., Cameron Hill could not be seen. When the fotr passed, a hazv atmosphere of Indian summer prevented us from seeing objects very distinctly. The 57th Indiana worked on the trenches near mv tent ; thev labored faith- full v. I was requested, last night, to call on a wounded man in the hospital. I did so this afternoon, according to promise. Thev were just laving him out as I arrived at his cot. If the Savior was as slow to come to his relief as I was, his soul is lost. Thursday, November 19. — Rumors thicken of a battle. I am expecting one every da}'. Saturday, Novenber 21. — The whole army had orders to march this morning, with eighty rounds of ammimition. It is generally thought we will go up the river and attack the rebel right. Sherman is passing up that way on the other side of the river. Order to march countermanded. Rations are exceedingly scarce ; relief must come soon, or we will be starved out. Sunday, No\'ember 22. — In the afternoon, I preached before the 125th Ohio. The congregation was large, and the hour favorable. Fort Wood was thundering at the rebels while I spoke. There was considerable cannonading b\' us to-dav. The rebels make but little replv. Monday, November 23. — Time wore awav as usual until about twelve m., when we were ordered to "fall in." The Regiment moved from Signal Hill, prepared for a battle. In the rear of General Wood's headquarters we joined the remainder of the Brigade. The Brigade was led by Gen- eral Wagner, assisted bv Colonel Wood, of the 15th Indi- ana. We moved out by our old camp, leaving Fort Palmer on the left. Between Fort W\)od and Fort Palmer was the I ith Corps, commanded bv Howard. "^J'heA- make a tine appearance. Just as we came up, they were moving as sol- diers do when thev pass before a commanding General, at a magnificent review. Being well dressed, and many of them sturdv Germans, thev presented a grand sight. FIFTY-EIGHTH INDIANA EEGIMENT. 218 Looking to our right, as we crossed the raih^oad, there mijiht be seen the arand army, movinpf in h)n<>' columns, or falling into line in camp. It was the grandest pageant I had ever witnessed, and I spoke to many officers and men about this grand sight. Thev all declared they had never seen its equal. Advancing in tront of Fort Palmer, our Brigade Ibrmed in line on the hill, where the National Cemetery has since been located. The array of battle was advancing as far as sight could reach. Our lines were in the shape of a •'\'," our Brigade being at the point. The marshalling of the hosts grew in increasing splendor. Away to tiie Ten- nessee on the right and left were the long lines of moving men. There was a solemn realit}^ about this array. Here was no empty display — there was no shouting rabble. There was no swellinp; strains of music to create artificial feeling — the stillness of death reigned throughout the long lines. Naught was heard save the heavy tramp of armed men, ami the clear, shrill voice of command. Every order was obeyed with promptness and precision. The movement of an army on the eve of a battle is always solemn and impressive, but the grandeur of this afternoon's display was, perhaps, never surpassed on earth. It was a lovely day. The sun shone in glory, as is his wont in autumn time. Qiiiet beauty reigned through forest, and over valley and mountain. Amid scenes such as these, and on this lovely autumnal afternoon, the glory and pride of America came forth to battle. Walden's Ridge, Sand and Lookout Mountain, and Missionary Ridge, looked quietly down on the scene and were glad, for they knew they would soon be freed from the traitor's unhallowed tread. Just before us are the rebel pickets. They are walking their beats uneasih'. But little time passes until, just upon our left, the tront line of sentinels of Wood's Division are reinforced by their reserves. These form' a line of skir- mishers, and no sooner was the line formed than the order was given to "trail arms," and advance on the "double quick." I am pretty confident that the first gun was fircnl 1 1. CHArLATX HIOHT'S HTSTORV OF TIIK bv the rebels, an hundred yards to the left of an open field, in which there was on old lime kiln. But the ""Yankees'' had the second pop. "Bang — bang — bang," with increas- ing rapidity, was heard along the advancing lines. "Lie down," commanded Colonel Moore. The order was read- ily obeyed, but we were not in the range of the guns, and all were soon up and looking. The rebels gave way rap- idh'. Wood's men pressed them sharply. The musketry increased to a roar, in the woods towards Orchard Knob. ,„™™,T,„M.^.. At this time Carl wSchurz' magnificent Division of Germans wheeled away, accom- panied by the whole of the I ith Corps, and t(jok position to the letl of Wood's men, and extended the* line of battle. Sheridan ad- vanced to keep his lines connected with Wood. Of Wagner's Brigade, the 57th Indi- ana acted as skirmish- ers, easily driving the rebels. Soon Wood's men gained the summit o{ Bald Knob — the grand object of the magnificent charge. A wild cheer of victory rose from our brave men as they paused on the crest of the hill, in full view of Missionary' Ridge. Musketry ceased, except some occasional guns. The ax and tiie s]:)ade were soon busih' engaged, securing what we had gained. I'he rebels continued a heav\- lire ot artillery from the Ridge, at Bald Knob, until afier dark, but little injury was done by them. Qiute a number ot men were wounded and some killed by the musketry. All these were of Woods Division, excejit loiu" troni the ^olh Indiana. FIFTY-ErCillTll INDIANA IfKOlMKXT. iM :> A large number of prisoners were captured, includino- almost an entire Florida Regiment. Thus glorious was fought and won the battle of Chattanooga Valley. Amongst the great battles of the war it is not to be named, but it stands high in the catalogue of minor contests. It has a sublimitN' not attached to many greater battles. It was well planned and daringly executed. Ev^ery patriot's heart in the valley beats high with exultation to-night, but terrors disturb the rebels' broken slumber. After dark I return to camp. None of the 58th were hurt, but they remained on the field. TiTESDAv, November 24. — I rose long before dav, antici- pating a renewal of the contest at dawn. Dav dawned as I was riding out to the lield. It was cloudy and rainy, occa- sionally breaking up a little. When I arrived at the front I found the lines in the same place, but the sSth had moved a short distance to the left. \"erv respectable works had been constructed during the night. Early in the morning we bepfan to hear iirintr over in Lookout Valley. Hooker was evidently paving his compliments to the rebel left. The musketry continued to increase, and by noon it attracted general attention in the center. A large company collected in the rear of the line of battle, at a place where Lookout could be seen. The troops were in the woods. Unfortun- ately there was clouds and fog on this day. A battle was evidently raging on the mountain just before our eyes, and it the day had been clear a grand sight would have been opened before us. As it was, we could only catch a glimpse of the combatants as the clouds would part. Hooker fought above the clouds to-da}'^, but unfortunately we were below them. At one time I saw a long line of our men, led by an officer mounted on a white horse ; others saw the rebels run into a house on the mountain side, and rescue several flags which they had hanging there. Men of excellent imagina- tion could see a great deal. At times cannonading from batteries on Moccasin Point is terrible. It slackened up considerabU^ as our men turned the mountain brow, as it was then difficult to pfet the ranjie of tlic rebels without 21(; CHAPLATX MIGHT'S HTSTOUY OF THE wounding our own men. The musketry was chiefly from iho skirmish line ; sometimes it would increase to a roar as the line of battle became engaged. We had but little flghting on the center, but tiiere were m.i:iy cheers given by our men, waiting there, for Hooker's success. I was slow to believe that our own men were get- ting the mountain, as there are always so many unreliable tales afloat in time of battle. Somebody is always whipping the enemy in flank or rear. But for once these tales were true. The battery near us let oft' occasionalh' at the rebel camps. Ai":er dark I returned to camp, the troops remaining in the field. The firing still continued on Lookout Mountain. In Chattanooga there were rumors of great success on the part of Hooker; a man ^^•ho came tVom the valley to-day says he saw a Brigade of rebels who had been captured on the mountain. The rain and clouds are gone, the air is clear and sharp. Whatever doubts I may have had of Gen- eral Hooker's success, I can be unbeliever no longer : there around the brow of Lookout are the Yankee camp fires I The rebels never make fires like our men. We came from the Xortli and our men are industrious, and have no scruples about the wood. The rebels are laz^•. There is no mistak- ing that long line of bright tires. It was never then- during the rebel reign. And look, away oft' on the left, on the far- ihi'r end of Missionary Ridge, those are tlie Yankee camp fires I Yes, Sherman is there ; he has crossed the Tennessee and is taking position for the fight. This has been a day of splendid success,- to-morrow we expect war in earnest. Wednesday, November 25. — I did not get off so early as on yesterday. As I go out, an occasional gun could be heard on our lett, but they were a long way oft' and some distance apart. The firing continued to increase. The most remarkable feature of the forenoon was the continual stream of rebel troops passing on the summit of the ridge to our left. Our batteries occasionally paid their respects to them, Init with little eftect. We coidd distincth- see infanlrv, FIFTY-EIGHTH INDIANA KE(il3IENT. 217 cavalrv and artillery. At one time we might see a rebel General accompanied by his stat]\ It was a loyely day, and objects were distinctly yisible at a long distance. Early in the at'ternoon our skirmish line became slightly engaged. We were then in the second line of battle. General Wood's Diyision being in front, the flanks oyerlapping tor a short distance. Besides the response from tiie rebel riflemen, the guns on the ridge flred seyeral shots, some of which came so close that we all took to the ditches. I sat yery con- tentedh' on some leayes in a trench, just between the 58th Indiana and the 26th Ohio, but this cannonading vyas not yery dangerous. About 2 p. m. our lines adyance. Wood's men withdrew to the left to giye the others room. The line of battle in our rear moyed forward and occupied the trenches. The moyements proyoked quite a liyely little tir- ing from the rebel guns on the ridge. I tarried where I was until this tiring lulled a little, when I rode oyer the brow of the hill, and stopped at a line of rifle pits which had been dug for our skirmishers. The 58th was just a little in advance, lying flat on the ground. The rear line of battle now^ advanced and lay down just in the rear of the front. The 15th Indiana was behind the 58th. Wood's men continued to move oft' towards the left. My impression at this moment was that w^e were relieving some of Wood's men, for the pur- pose of sending them to the support of our left under Gen- eral Sherman. While these thoughts were in my mind, the regular battery, wdiich had been with us in the former line, came dashing up and took a position in the open space, lo the left of the 58th and the 15th, which was outside of the works. I distinctly heard the order given them to respond lively if the rebels opened on them, but the rebels were very silent. It began to be w^hispered around that an advance was to be made. Dr. Adams came up and shared my pit. At length I heard some one in my rear give an order to an Aide de Camp, at a little distance, to tell some one to advance and take the works at the foot of the ridire. I did not distinctly 218 CILVrLAlX JIU.JIT'S lllSTOKV OF THE hear all the words, but caught part of them, and inferred that there was hot work ahead. Major White, of the 15th, rode up and down the line of that Regiment, telling them to stand tirm, if the first line gave way, to pass tiles to the rear and let them go, but not to go with them. General Wagner had called his Retrimental commanders a few minutes before and gave them some instructions. Colonel Wood, of the 15th, seems to have misunderstood the order, which was to take the works at the foot of the ridge. He understood it was to take the ridge. Accordingly he came to Colonel Moore and told him that the order would be soon issued to take the ridge. Said he, "Have 3'our men hx bavonets and move slowh- to the top of the ridge." But Cjcnerals Grant and Thomas desiijned to take nothini>- but the foot, and neither dreamed of the army moving right on from Piedmont to Altamont.* At length the signal gun was hred from Orchard Knob, and long lines of men rose tVom the grass and began to advance. In a few moments the 58th received orders to hx ba'S'onets. At this time the front line of Wag- ner's Brigade was composed of the looth Illinois, 58th Indi- ana and 26th Ohio. The 57th was on the skirmish line, the 15th Indiana, 97th Ohio and 40th Indiana were in reserve. * Lieutenant-Colonel J. S. Fullerton, Gentral Granger's Chief ol" Staff, in an artiele in the Cc?i/in-v ]\';U was hung out — a genuine star spangled banner. Some of the people seemed glad to see us. One small boy declared that we looked like "meetintj folks." Our men were very uncouth, but were nice and genteel, as compared with the rebels, whose lank and ragged lorms had tVequented these parts of late. We marched thirteen miles and it was alter dark long before the march was completed. At last we turned into a dark woods. Soon a thousand fires illuminated the scene, and we were made warm and comfortable. We camped Wednesday evening, after a twent\'-tiye mile march, on a rich farm. It was old Tom Prigmore's, The boys went in heavy on straw, hay, oats, rails, chickens, et id omne genus. Alas ! for old Tom Prigmore. W^e came to the railroad next day. Here we began to see signs of war. Fences were laid down, or entirely destroyed. We soon came to a village called Philadelphia. In the center was a fine spring, bubbling up amongst the rocks. The people seemed poor. Desolation reigned supreme. A few weeks since, Colonel Woolford had been surprised here by some of Longstreet's forces. The result was of course disastrous to our arms. We supposed up to this time that we were to go to Lou- don. But we left it and turned towards Morgantown. After marching twenty miles we camped on the farm of William Fowler. Near us, on the right, was Sherman's army. Thus lar I had been disappointed in East Ten- nessee. It was better than I anticipated. Instead of small valleys, as I had anticipated, it was one great valle}'. The soil is generally good. Springs of fine water and mill seats abound. I never saw such a country for water power in my life. We remained in camp Friday, December 4th. The rations drawn at the Hiawassee river were out, and, as we could get no more supplies by the regular channel, it became necessary to obtain them from the country. So the mills in the neig-hborhood were started. ("HAPLAIX HKIHT'S HISTORY OF THE Saturday, December 5. — We left camp at seven a. m. We marched to the Little Tennessee, at a point opposite Morgantown. We took a very circuitous route to reach this river. Cause, unknown. The Little Tennessee is a mag- nificent stream ; clear, swift and fordable, for horses. A trestle bridge had been made over the stream. Over this, the arm}' was passed, except the horses, which waded. After crossing the river, we struck out through a range of hills. A few poor people lived here. We came to the most magnilicent pine forest I ever saw. It was grand beyond description. The Heaven above is com- plete! v shut out. The road runs like an aisle ot some grand cathedral, and the columns a long train of worshipers. Sounds echo as in a cav- ern. From this we de- bouched into an open countrv. We came to a broad dirt road, leading to Maryville. On this liio-hwaN' twilitrht came upon us. Just at this hour we moved into a wood on the lelt of the road. A large barn furnished an abundance of hav and straw. We were soon prepared to rest well at night. But rations were entirelv wantinIANA KE(iIMEXT. 2^^, the present supply. Mr. Chamber's ox-wagon was pressed in to help transport our goods. We marched slowly, and camped, alter dark, about tour miles iVom Knoxyille. We stopped in a poor place, too rough for comfortable sleeping, and destitute of water. Saturday, December 12. — We met the ist Brigade of our Diyision coming out to relieye us. From them we learned that the orders for our Corps to go to Chattanooga were countermanded. This vyas one of the first acts ot GLQ.neral Foster in taking command. In the afternoon, our Brigade crossed the Holston on thr pontoons and marched through Knoxyille. There were great crowds of men, women and children — especially the two latter classes. Negroes, especially little negroes, abounded. The Brigade made a good appearance, consid- ering their rags and dirt. The boys are genuine "bare- footed democracy" now. Knoxyille is situated, like old Rome, on hills. I^ike Jeru- salem, there are mountains 'round about her. Away to the south might be seen the ranges of North Carolina and Geor- gia. To the northeast there are seyeral peaks, which I sup- pose to be the Clinch mountains. Knoxyille, for many years, has been the center of fashion and intelligence for East Tennesse. The houses neyer were as stylish as those in more northern climes, but were large and substantial. This must haye been a fine little city in days gone by. But war has made its desolating marks. When our men first came to this city they were exceedingly desirous to protect and preserye the city. But when besieged by Longstreet, many fine houses had to be torn down to make way for the defen- siye works, or to get them out of the range of our guns, or to preyent them trom being a protection to the enemy's sharpshooters. Fences were destroyed, and the fine country laid w^aste for miles. This last was done by the enemy. We marched out of the city between the East Tennessee Uniyersitv and Fort Sanders. The former stood on a hill 2:5<5 CHAI'LAIX HKiHT'S HISTOID (►F THH on the left, and consisted of five buildings, built after the ideas of some old countrymen. The central building is of the same order as the old-style court houses of Tennessee, Kentucky and Indiana, It is square, and has a nameless thing, intended for a cupola, on top. The other buildings were of a later date, and on slighth' imj^roved models. So much for peace and learning. Over the way stood Fort Sanders, untinisiied, but with a history already written in blood, I did not have time to visit it to-day. As we passed our lines of entrenchments, there were evi- dences of the late conflict. Our men had lived, and some of them died, in the trenches. They had tires to protect them from the intensely cold weather. There w^ere some ingeni- ously contrived flues in the sides of the ditches. Wires were stretched in front of the works. A number of houses were fixed up as forts for riflemen. We found the advance works of the enemy within ours, siiowing that thev had driven our men. We stopped amid the filth of an old rebel camp. The weather was raw% and rain was threatening. Some old houses were torn down to make shelters for the men. At night the rain fell, but most of the men were protected. There is mucii dissatistaction amongst the men because we are detained in this department, Sunday, December 13. — This is a raw, rain\' day. Many went over to see Fort Sanders. I designed having church in the morning, but all things were adverse. So I went, in company with several oflicers, to see Fort Sanders. We first went into the woods and fields where the enemy massed and formed tiieir forces lor the deadh- charge. How many a brave man's heart was filled with sad misgiv- ings, on that fatal night, as he took his place in the line I IIpw many fond memories crowded upon the throbbing brain I Home, and all its lo\-ed scenes and inmates, come before the mind as Heaven's richest blessings, perhaps never more to be enioved. FIFTV-EKiHTH INDIANA J{E(t1MKNT. 2;}7 With many, these painful tears were realized. For here on the hillside are the graves of man\' of these poor fellows. Their bodies are scarcely hid. Indeed, here is one man with his h\g toe sticking out of the grave I The profane and thoughtless deliver themselves of many jokes at iiis expense — "jokes," as they suppose, but blasphemies in truth. "At his expense," as they imagine, but really at their own. Judas tliought tliirtv pieces of silver the price ot Jesus. It was the price of his own soul. But, to return, here is another with his face exposed I The rebels seem to care little about bvu^ying their dead, and nothing about their enemies. Farther up towards the fort are seen remnants of clothing, old hats and pools of blood. In the ditch itself these indications of the deadly strife are numerous. We went into the fort. Here we learned some items of the deadly conflict. These belong to history. At two p.m. we had meeting at the quarters of Companies A and F. The attendance was very poor. I preached about Satan, and gave him no good name. Monday, December 14. — The weather is becoming raw and w'intry. We are tentless, and poorly clad. Some of the men are barefooted. Some have no blankets. But tew have overcoats. Some are in their shirt sleeves. There is not, in all probabilitv, a sound pair of socks in the Regi- ment. The men clamor for Chattanooga. General Wagner has obtained permission to quarter his Brigade in the East Tennessee University, in Knoxville. He told Colonel Moore that on yesterday, he walked the floor, chewed tobacco, and swore all day, on account of the condi- tion of his men. Well, we marched in to occupy our zc/n- ter quarters — as we supposed. The buildings were very much crowded. A part of the 40th Indiana occupied the third story of the eastern wing,- and tlie 58th were to have the remainder of the building. But many of the rooms are occupied by the sick and hospital attendants. These can not be moved at once. Hence, many of the men can not be quartered in the house to-night. The soldiers clamor tor 238 CHAPLAIN HTGHT'S HISTORY OF THE "the woods, the woods." So long have we lived in the for- ests that the men are almost wild. As for the field and staff, they are to stop in a private house. Colonel Neff, of the 40th, and Colonel Moore, of the 58th, had succeeded in thrusting themselves into a house. The owner thereof is a good Union man — so he says. But he is kind enough to take his carpet off the floor, carry away the mattress from the bed, remove the table and chairs, and furnish no wood. To-night I will have the pleasure of sleeping on his dirty floor. This is better than I am accustomed to. But, some- how, I have contracted a kind of contempt lor this kind of a "Union" man, from ^^■hich I fear I will never recover. He says he attended the East Tennessee Universitv six years. But I am certain of one thing — he iias not learned the first and simplest lessons of good manners. About noon, Tuesday, December 15, rumors began to thicken of marching. I believe them, for it is in exact keeping with our destin}-. The 58th Indiana are certainlv "pilgrims and strangers here below." Soon the orders came. Hurried, but incomplete preparations were made. All sorts of orders were given and countermanded. Things generally were mixed. Many men were left because the}^ were sick, or shoeless. Finally, near night, we were put on board of the cars. I sent my horse in care of a servant bv the dirt road. I took mv place in a crowded car. Tiie locomotive could scarcely move the train. About eight p. m. we were put oft', opposite Strawberry Plains, about seven- teen miles from Knoxville. On one side of the track we found rails. We made a fire and soon had supper. As the night was cold and bedding scarce, we removed the fire and laid down on the hot earth. It is an excellent plan. Try it some night when you are destitute of sufiicient bedding. Wednesday, December 16. — We did not march early, but we marched. Instead of crossing the river, as I thought we would, we went up the river. I went trudging along, with mv two woolen, and c^ne trum, blankets. It is a hard FIFTY-EIGHTH INDIANA KEGDIENT. 239 thing to soldier on foot. The boys seemed to enjoy my walk more than I did. They laughed heartily to see me sweajt and hear me blow. But, for my own part, I did not see the joke. We soon overtook our train, which had come through during the night, and I mounted my horse gladly. We did not advance farther than the bridge on the Knox- ville road, when we met a wagon train on the way back to Knoxville. As we passed along this train I noticed an unusual number of men. I soon became convinced that they were stragglers. Somebody was evidently scared in front. Rumors of lighting began to prevail. Longstreet had been heavily reinforced. He was advancing and driv- ing our men. So the stragglers said. We went about four or five miles from the Plains and went into camp. The stream of wagons, stragglers and natives continued to flow by us all day. There must have been two thousand of these miserable skulkers, chiefly cavalry. It did our boys great good to tantalize them. "Hurry up, hurry up !" our men would say, "we will tr}' and hold them back until you get to a safe place." "Give way and let the cavalrv pass to the rear." When the facts all came to light, it turned out that there had been a cavalry fight at Bean's Station, and our men had run off", leaving a train of coffee, sugar and great coats in rebel hands. The Regiment remained in this vicinity for several weeks, duriuij which time there was a monotonous scarcitv of rations and wearing apparel. But we varied the monotony of this daily lack by an almost dailv moving of our camping place. This kept the boys busy fixing up and tearing down their rude huts, and served to make them forget their other troubles. It also served to show a lack of decision and good judgment on the part of our commanders. Christmas day was spent in camp, about five miles above Strawberry Point, on the banks of the Holston river; we had just moved here the day before. 240 CHArLAIX IIKiHT'S IIISTOIIV OF THE Tuesday, December 26. — The 26lh Ohio has re-enlisted as veterans, and Lieutenant-Colonel Young has gone to Chattanooga to complete the arrangements. A few even- ings since, General Wagner called the Regiments into line and explainecl to them the veteran cjuestion. There are quite a number of men in tiie 58th who are anxious to re-enlist. In mv opinion this veteran movement is all wrong. I think it would be better for the Government to enforce the draft and bring new men into the service. Let the Government save its big bounties. Thursday, December 31. — Another vear has passed away ; 1863 is gone. This, to me, has been one of the most eventful years of mv life. It opened on the dead and wounded of the hrst dav's tight at Stone River. Next dav was Friday's deadly fight. At Murfreesboro we had com- parative quite and good times generally. Chickamauga and Mission Ridge are great events in 1863. My health has been good all year. For this I am very thankful, as I was sick much of last vear. God has wonderlulh' blessed me in every respect. Thanks to the Great Giver of every good and perfect blessing. Dr. Samuel E. Holtzman, Assistant Surgeon of the 58th, reached the Regiment Fridav, the 8th. He was captured at the Wood's Division Hospital, near Crawfish Springs, on September 20tii, 1863. He remained there thirteen days, in charge of our wounded. Li compan\- with the other Sur- geons he was sent to Ringgold and jiul on the cars. He was taken to Riciimond and put in the lamous Libby prison, where he remained until Novemlier 24th. With the other Surgeons he was released and sent Xorlh. He visited Washington, New York, and various other cities of minor importance. He returned with less flesh tlian wlien he went awa}'. WED^■^:sDA^^ JAXUAK^■ 13. — I'hree men. who were wounded at Chickamauga, came up to-day. Thc-y are George Cjasawa\', of D: IL>mbre(\ ol" ]•>, and Rock, ol (i. They came with a supph' train from Chattanooga. FIFTY-EIGHTH INDIANA l{K(iIMENT. lUl The following m^n were mustered in to-dav as veterans, for three years, from January i, 1864 : Company B — ^J. N. Endicott, W. A. Duncan, Nathan Bigham. Company C — Lewis Field. Company D — Larkin Montgomery, James M. Cunningham, Albert Brewster, Adolphus A. Floor. Company II — John W. Vierling. Company' I — Robert Lemmon. Company K — Wm. II. Young. This is one-third of the unconditional veterans of the 58th. The remainder are to go home in two future installments. These are ordered to hold themselves in readiness to go home at a moment's warning. This is the iirst time I ever heard that order given in the arm^'. Lieutenants Samuel Sterne and Wood Tousev have been commissioned Captains. Both will make splendid officers. Captain W. A. Downey, recently acting as assistant surgeon, now on his way trom Libby Prison, having been captured with the hospital at Chickamauga, has been recommended for Major of tlie Regiment, zvcf Moore, promoted to Lieu- tenant-Colonel. Thursday, January 14 — This forenoon the long expected train came up, twenty-two da^-s from Chattanooga. One wagon caine for the 58th, containing a few knapsacks and shelter tents for the men, bedding for officers, and a miser- able lot of old trash for Regimental headquarters. Just as the train was coming in orders came to prepare the coinmand to move over the river. The wagons forded the stream. All the Regiments were transported over in two little flats. Our Regiment did not go. About sixtv men came up for the 58th from Chattanooga. Friday, January 15. — The Veterans, spoken of da\' before yesterday, started for home this morning. We moved at daylight. The morning was chilly and damp. We passed over the Holston and camped on the other bank. After remaining there until about noon we marched through the hills over a glassy road. We crossed the railroad about four miles from Strawberr\' Plains. A 242 CHAPLAIN MIGHT'S HISTORY OF THE short distance from here we went into camp in a woods to the right of the main road. Dr. Holtzman and myself put up a tent, which had been assigned to us. So I slept under a wall tent for the tirst time since we left Hillsboro, in August . Saturday, January i6. — We marched early, towards Berry's Mountain. The roads were very slick. The horses were so poor and foot sore that they could scarcely stand, We crossed Beny's Mountain, about live miles to the right of Mossy Creek Station. This mountain is about as high as Missionary Ridge. The road is good and free from rocks. From the top the mountains of North Carolina could be seen, rising in grandeur before us. The descent was very gradual. Just at dark we entered Dandridge, twenty miles from Straw- berry Plains. As we drew near w^e heard the sound of light- ing before us. Harker's Brigade had gone into camp and then went to the front. We remained on a hillside during the night. Things looked like a battle. There is a great deficiency in ammunition and rations. W^e are in a mis- erable condition for fighting. And if we were to fight there must be immense suffering; amontrst the w^ounded. We have but few surgeons, and they are utterly destitute of supplies. Sunday, January 17. — This morning opened warm and pleasant. I took a walk through the town. In better days this must have been one of the pleasantest nooks in all nature. Few streams are more lovely than the French Broad. It is clear and pure. The current is fast. Northeast of the town, about ten miles, rises the mountains of North Carolina. They rise before the beholder like an enchanted view. The hills and valleys about Dandridge are fine. I noticed a lew good churches and school houses. Returning from a visit to the 2d Indiana Cavalry, I met one Regiment of cavalry going out. There was increased firing all along the line. My Brigade was falling in as I reached camp. They were formed on an adjacent hill. The firing increased to a roar all around the lines. There FIFTY-EiaHTH INDIANA REGIMENT. 24.3 was great confusion amongst the troops. They were mov- ing here and there. Evidently there was a sad need of a Genc7-al: One of our wagons had been placed in the Holston for a bridge. The other could not hold the baggage. We moved ot^', leaving the baggage to come up under charge of thirty men, detailed, and tiftv stragglers. We thought that we were going over the French Broad to take a position still farther to the right. But we went out on the same road we had come in on. We went silently, wonderingly along. Sad surmises and idle rumors were told in whispers, but complaints were loud and ol'ten sworn out. It was a long and weary tramp over the hills and moun- tains. Night was made for rest, for sleep, and ill betides the man who uses it lor other purposes. It is very weari- some to march at night. Instead of stopping when we had crossed Berrv's Mountain, we kept on until we were within three miles of Strawberrv Plains. Here, we stopped, just at the dawn of day, in an old corn held. Next dav we crossed the Holston at the Plains, on the railroad bridge, which had been iinely planked. We went out a mile and stopped in the woods for dinner — it proved for a longer time. Towards night the wagons came up. Some of the tents had been thrown out. Tuesday, January 19. — We remained all dav in camp. Rumors came thick and fast of Hardee moving on our line of communications, of Longstreet crossing the French Broad, of our retreating to Knoxville, cannon went down on the cars. The sick were sent oft\ Rails were hauled and piled on the bridge. Bob Skelton came in this evening. He was detailed on Sunday, during the fighting, to go beyond the French Broad and run a mill. Two men went with him. He crossed over two branches of the stream, and was overtaken by night on an island. Here he learned that the mill was in the possession of the rebels. Harker and his bridge was gone. A negro took them back over the river. Here the}-- were informed that the Yankees were srone. He was 244 THAPLATX HTGHT'S HISTORY OF THE warned by a negro woman to tiy. He heard the clanking of rebel swords. A path too narrow lor horsemen had been pointed out along the banks of the French Broad. This was followed until within six miles of Strawberry Plains. They then came across the countr\'. Wednesday, January 20. — About the middle of the after- noon, as I lay asleep, I was aroused by the blowing of the assembly in an adjoining Regiment. We were soon on the way, taking the railroad track, towards Knoxyille. I was a little exercised by the absence of my horse, which had been sent out foraging, but I was more exercised by the retreat. I was satisfied that to the front miorht be I'ound yictory, honor, safety and abundance. We went to the twelfth mile j-»ost from Knoxyille, and then turned off to the right. We unexpectedly stopped. It seemed a tine position for a battle as far as I could see. I was in hope it meant fight, but it didn't. We were not hunting a fight, it seems. Thursday, January 21. — Reveille at 4:30 a. m. Alarched at six a. m. Troops took the railroad, and trains the dirt road, to Knoxyille. I arrived there in advance of tht-' column. We passed tlirough the cit^^ crossed the river on the pontoon, and stopped near our old camp, two miles on the Sevierville road. Rumor says we go there to-mor- row. "Rumor" tells many tales. We hear but little that is reliable, hence "rumors" abound. It is said that there has been fighting to-day at Maryville ! It is said that Richmond is taken ! Tliere is no end to tin* thousand idle tales that iloat through the camps. And no tale is without its believ- ers. I believe that if I uere to declare myself commis- sioned from Heaven to declare a new (jospel tliere would be some believers. h'kiDAY, January 22. — It had been so long since we had been permitted to send out any mail, that I determined to take tiie letters to Knoxyille this morning, though we march. All was in readiness to march when the orders were coun- ti'rmanded. I determiiu'd to 7(; CHAPLAIX HIOHT'S HTSTOin" OF THE had the church become to slavery, that Christianity was much diluted. •In the reorganization, the old materials will mostly be laid aside, being unfit ibr the temple of the Lord. A young Methodist preacher, by the name of Cramer, a brother-in-law of General Grant, is retitting two of the Meth- odist Churches. The Nashville Methodists are great trait- ors. Unless some better stock is imported, there will not be salt enough to save the Methodist Church here. There are thousands of loyal Methodists in Tennessee, but they are principally in the eastern part of the State. A few loyal preachers are now collecting these stray sheep into the fold. At Cleveland, and other places, the good work goes on encouragingly. Monday, April i8. — We had orders to begin our march from Nashville at six a. m. But we could not comply, as all the preparations were to be made. Two horses were drawn and shod. One of them was a very nice sorrel, which fell to the lot of Qiiartermaster Raftan. The other was a very clumsy grey, which Adjutant Whiting was to ride. A wagon and six mules were drawn. Three days' rations were issued to the men. The wagon was loaded with three mess chests — two for the line, and one for the tield and staff — three new wall tents, drawn at Indianapolis, the officers' bedding, six axes, and as many hatchets, and three days' forage. We left Zollicoffer Barracks at twelve m. It is one hundred and fifty-one miles to Chattanooga. It is a shame to make the men walk tiiis distance along a rail- road. They have already walked eighty miles, from Lou- don to Chattanooga, that they might re-enlist. It is cruel to add one hundred and fifty-one miles more. It is true the trains are crowded wit^ army supplies. But all the men going to the front can be easily transported. There are so many trains each day, that, by putting only a few on each, all can easily be forwarded. It was ditlerent once, when great numbers of veterans were returning to the field. But the rush is now over. However, the 58th has traveled this road often, and can do so again. FIFTY-EIGHTH INDIANA RECJIMENT. 277 We moved out on the Murfreesboro pike. I remember well the day we last marched over this road ; aye, and the first time, too. It was a hot September day, 1862. We had encamped the previous night on Stewart's Creek. By daAdight we were upon the pike, with leaning t'orms towards Nashville, It was about twenty-five miles to the city, but we had but half the day for the trip. The air was dry. Water was very scarce. No rest was given to the men. It was on, on ! The cedars were white with lime dust from the pike. The sun shone with an Auofust fierceness. But no time must be lost. We reached Nashville by one o'clock. We were with Buell's arm^'. There seemed to be neither begin- ning nor ending to the stream of soldiers pouring into Nashville. A change comes over the spirit of my dream. It is December 26, 1862, The army of Rosecrans begins to advance on Bragg at Murfreesboro. McCook, with the 20th Army Corps, is on the right ; Thomas, with the 14th, is in the center; and Crittenden, with the 21st, is on the lelt. The 58th is with Crittenden. We advance on the Murfrees- boro pike. Another Division is in front. The rain is fall- ing. The sound of cannon is heard in front, and far to the right. It was a day long to be remembered. There are not so many fences now as then, but there are more than some months since. A number have been built, and some have been larming without much fencing. It is spring to-day ; it was winter then ; everything is now more cheerful. The world then seemed to stand in sus- pense and listen. Now men seem to be looking forward. A few rebels are still sullen, still hoping for the coming of the Southern braves. But most of the people seem content with the new order of things. We passed the insane asylum, still looking quiet and beautiful. Here is the place where General Rosecrans passed us, smoking his cigar, December 26, 1863. "Every- thing ends in 'nigger' these days," said one. "No matter 27» CHAPLAIN HIGHT'S HISTORY OF THE how it begins, it ends in 'nigger.' " Rosccrans' staff' was dashing by, and he pointed to it lor a verification of his say- ing. The escort was long, and threatened to terminate with white men. But finally the end came. It was negroes. They dash by, giving unconscious verification to the saying of the wag. The fence that we sat on when laughing at this occurrence is gone. Early in the afternoon we went into camp, on a little grassy plot by the roadside. There was a frame church on the left hand of the pike. Our new horses were hitched up to the bushes. The wagon was unloaded. Being without servants, the officers did their own cooking. I am messing with the field and staff', plus Lieutenant J. G. Behm. Major Downey and Lieutenant Behm acted as cooks for the even- ing. Such hilarity I had not seen for some time. Men jumped about like boys. " Home again," was the expres- sion which fell from every one. We soon had supper, of baker's bread, ham and coffee. This was better than at the hotel Sewanee, for there they had neither. Night came on, and I lay down in the tent to sleep. I soon knew no more of this dav. Tuesday, April 19. — The morning was lovelv. We rose, breakfasted, and started at our leisure. We soon reached the spot where Lavergne once was. It was here, on the 27th day of December, 1862, that the blood of the 58th Indiana was first shed in battle. I remember the bivouac in the woods the preceding night, how we waited for the fog to rise next morning ; how the 26th Ohio charged on the left of the pike, and the 58th on the right, at twelve m. Here young Reavis, of Company B, was severely wounded, and afterwards discharged. William Witherspoon was injured on the head, which finally resulted in spasms. Several others were wounded. But the 58111 never quailed. The town is now destroved. There is a fort, and a garri- son of two Regiments. We stopped for dinner at Stewart's Creek. We camped before night, on the north bank of Stone River. The old battlefield is mostly under cultiva- FIFTY-EIGHTH INDIANA EEGIMENT. 27^ tion. A company has five or six hundred acres in cotton,. They hire their laborers at an average price of eight dollars per month and board. The negroes are industrious and con- tented. They like the system much better than slaver v. They are fed on plain, substantial diet. Many of the plant- ers in these parts are paying their laborers. Mr. Wallace, a rebel, is hiring his own former slaves. He savs he prefers it to the old plan. INIany of the Southerners declare that they never will pay the negroes. Some of them fondlv hope that the happy days of lordship over negroes will return. "We will get the power over the negroes again," they say. Vain delusion. Misfortune is sure to overtake all who resist the new order of things. Those planters who are employing hands and cultivatintj their lands will make lari>-e sums of money. Several hundred dollars' worth of cotton can be raised on an acre. I saw the place where the 58th stood at the battle of Stone River. The graves of our men are there. The little skirt of timber is still standing, the trees being covered with bul- let marks. A monument is being erected by Hazen's Brig- ade, to the memory of their comrades who fell in this battle and at Shiloh. It is of blue limestone — a very substantial material. Nearly all the men had purchased boots at home. These are made after the usual style of home — smaller than the feet. Consequenth', many had sore leet by this time. Hence, a number of army shoes were drawn at Murfrees- boro. These shoes are made large, with broad toes, and are excellent for marching. Whatever the United States does is generally well done. We drew three daj^s' rations arid forage at Murfreesboro. We then continued our march, on the Shelbyville pike. We soon entered what was to me a new region of countrv. We found a good pike, and a fine country. A number of farm- ers had come from the North, and were occupying some of the deserted plantations. We camped for the night at a lit- tle spring, about a mile from Fosterville. The 23d Ken- '2iU) CHAPLAIX HIGHT'S HISTORY OF THE lucky was just ahead of us all dav. Thev went several miles farther than we did. Thursday, April 21. — We early resumed the march. T'he town of Fosterville is entirely destroyed. Instead of turning- to the left and traveling along the main railroad, we continued on the Shelby ville pike. This is the road trav- eled by all the troops marching through to Chattanooga. We had gone but a little way when I met two women dressed in black, sitting on their horses at the end of a lane. One of them told me thijit she was John Patterson's mother, and wished him to go home with her. John was along with the Regiment. He had enlisted, but had not been mustered. Major Downey sent him with his mother. He had been constantly sa3'ing that his mother was dead. He is the same boy who used to attend to mv horse. He went North with Captain Chappel last fall. In the afternoon we reached Shelbyville. The Regiment had been here once belbre, in the summer of 1862, when I was sick, in the Huntsvillc iiospital. This was once a lovelv town. It lies amongst the hills and cedars, near the bank of Duck River. But war has laid its glory low. The court house and many other buildings are entirely destroyed. This is the most loyal town in Middle Tennessee. We found the road exceedingly rough as we turned towards Tullahoma. We had no pike. We wound about amongst the hills. We met some cavalry. Among them was a part of the 3d Ohio, who used to be in our Division. They were moving to tiie rear — as was their usual habit when with us. They knew not what the}' were going to the rear for this time, however. We ascended to the table land, but the hill was less steep than on an\' of the roads north of here, which I have trav- eled. We entered upon the same barrens, which are every- where to be lound along the outer rim of these table lands. The forests are of scrubby oaks. We camped, after march- ing about fifteen miles, at a distance of three miles from Tullahoma. It took until about twelve m. to draw four FIFTY-EIGHTH INDIANA KEOLAIENT. 281 days" rations and forage. We were then marched ten miles, by two canteens of whisky, to Elk River. We were there by 2 : 30 p. m. The men were marclied ver^' last, and hardly given any rest. Our commanders were hunting tor Estell Springs, but thev were not on this road. We encamped for the night in an orchard. Many of the officers and men scattered about the country, whither they pleased. The Regiment is greatly demoralized. It is almost impos- sible to accomplish any moral reformation amongst men without discipline. Sunday, April 24. — The morning is damp and cold. The Colonel designs marching no farther than Decherd — five miles. As our tents are pitched, the rain is falling, and it is Sabbath, I can see no necessity of marchinp; at all. We moved from the camp, under command of Major Downey. He did not know the road, and made no inquiries until he was far off the track. We blundered along through the woods until near noon, traveling about ten miles to reach Decherd. ^^\^ stopped nearly on the fame spot that our Regiment occupied in 1862. There has been a great change here since then. The hiah fence built by General Wood, to check the advance of rebel cavalr}-, has been burned. Indeed, most of the lencing in these parts has shared the same fate. Dead mules and horses may be seen by hun- dreds. No effort has been made to bury them. The stench is very oppressive in camp. Otherwise, our camp is very pleasant. We have a little shade and plenty of cold water. The leaves are putting out very fast. The weather has gen- erally been very pleasant since we left Nashville. We have had some showers, mostly at night. The grass is growing finely. Already we can turn our new horses loose about camp. They will graze without straying away. It is aston- ishing how soon a horse will learn to stay about camp. They will associate with men in the army as they do with horses at home. At two p. m. I preached to a large congregation. My subject was "Christian Joy.'" I took occasion to point out 282 CHAPLAIN HIGHT'S HISTORY OF THE the imliappines.s of the ungodly. I can not believe that our meeting was altogether useless. Mav God bless the services ot' this afternoon. We labor amid the jeers of many. At Decherd we overtook the 23d Kentucky, the 44th Illinois, the 65th Ohio, and 57th Indiana. All these Regiments are here, keeping the holy Sabbath. The blessings of the Lord will abide upon these Regimental commanders, if they keep all the otiier commandments. Monday, April 25. — We drew two days' rations this morning. The men having not entirely recovered from sore feet, and not having urgent orders, the Colonel wisely con- cluded to rest to-day. This rest was very acceptable to me, though I am not so wearied as one who has carried his knap- sack, and walked. There are several sick men in the Regiment. George W. Anderson, of Company F, and James R. Fowler, of Compan}' K, are the worst oH'. x\ number of sorefooted men have been sent ofTon the cars. Tuesday, April 26. — I took the letters into town this morning. Qiiartermaster Raffan being sick, rode^in with me and remained. He is ver-\' ill. The Regiment began their march at the same time ; I soon overtook them. We now began to travel amongst the moun- tain scenery, which renders East Tennessee tamous. We came to Cowan, which seemed in a mountain cove. We soon began the ascent of the mountains. Tlie road was exceedingly rough, but the mountain is not as high as at Pelham or Altamont. 2\s we gain the summit the spires of Winchester, and all the valley, lav at our feet. We soon begin to descend. The road passes over the tunnel. Here on our left is a guard over an air hole in the tunnel. We pass a long train of baggage, belonging to the 19th Michigan. They have every kind of old trash. We stopped by a gushing mountain stream for dinner. Here in these wilds, where there is little else, are to be f)und the finest springs of cold water. FIFTY-EIGHTH INDIANA EEOIMEXT. 283 The march is resumed after an hour's rest. The roads are exceeding rugged. We passed up and down narrow mountain roads. We camped a mile in advance of Tan- talon, on Coe Creek. Next da}' we continued the march along the creek. There were some little farms in the valley and mountains on either side. The valley widened. We soon came to the residence of a rich man, owning over twenty thousand acres of land. He had planted over seven hundred acres of corn last year, all of which the Yankees gathered for him. I suppose this man's name is Anderson, as he resides bv Anderson Station. Near this station w"e passed the spot where the 20th Connecticut camped last night. We camped about two miles from Stevenson, Alabama. We stopped amid many unburied, stinking mules. It is now almost impossible to find a camping place where there are not dead mules. We soon reached Stevenson, next morning. Some of the same old houses were there which I saw in 1862. The Alabama House, then, was now a Soldiers' Home. x\ large number of cabins have been erected, chiefly for contrabands. Some field works have been constructed. We paused long enough to draw three days' rations. We then resumed our w'ear}^ march. The dirt road led us through the .vallev in almost every direction. And there was not onh' the road we traveled with our horses, but many, others, winding about in almost ever}^ direction. The footmen traveled on the railroad — not on the cars. In my riding I fell in company with the Chaplain of the 20th Connecticut. He appeared to be a man of medium size, both in body and mind. He has been in the field since last September. I have no doubt that he is an earnest, faith- ful and successful laborer. We came up with his Regiment. Thev belonged to the 1 2th Arm}' Corps, but now constitute a part of the new 20th Corps, under General Hooker. The men wore very neat clothing for soldiers. Instead of hats like our men, thev 2a t CHAPLATX HTGHT'S HISTORY OF THE wore caps. These iire not so comfortable, but much neater, than hats. The knapsacks of these Eastern bovs are more neatly packed than ours. The bhmkets are placed upon the knapsack in a very nice roll. The men keep to their places better than Western men. It is no use to deny that they are better soldiers than Western men, so tar as discipline, order and neatness are concerned. Thev make better ijfuards and, indeed, are superior on any kind of detached duty, which requires what is called "style." All honor to them for this. But in one respect our Western men are superior to the Eastern. We are better lighters. This has been demonstrated by the whole historj^ of the war. There is no occasion, there lore, for any jealousy between Eastern and Western troops. I have often been pained during this marcli at our men for making contemptible reproaches at the Eastern troops. They generally are better bred than our men, and do not retort to the same extent. This bel- lowing of one body of soldiers at another is all wrong, and siiould not be permitted by the officers. We camped in sight of Bridgeport. Again we had the perfume of dead mules. After supper, in company with Lieutenant R. A. Woods, I took a walk about Bridgeport. We passed through t4ie boatyard. The Goyernment has seyen steamers in progress of construction. One of these has made a suc- cessful trip to Chattanooga. I am no judge of such matters, but the work seemed to be going bravely ahead. The steamers seemed to be substantial and good. We returned to camp with the impression that Uncle Sam was a thor- ough-going old gentleman. The noble forts which protect the bridge and boatyard, only confirmed us in our opinion. We were detained some time Eriday morning in Bridge- port, drawing forage and getting the mules shod. We passed along the railway to our old acquaintance, Shell- mound. We saw the familiar face of Nickajack Cave, but had not time to call. There were many empty huts here, indioatiuL'- tliat the irarrison had mostly ijone to the front. FIFTY-EIGHTH INDIANA REGIMENT. 28.> We went by without stopping, until we came to the largt^ spring that flows from Raccoon Mountain, just abov-e the Station, tiere we dined. The road from this point, for some distance, lias been recently improved. There was great need of this, for the road was exceedingly rough last September, when General Crittenden's Corps passed this way. Our way lay along a romantic route. At one place the road lay just above the waters of the Tennessee, while towering palisades of solid limestone rose for several hundred feet above our heads. There was no cessation to the stench of dead horses and mules. They tell the severity of last autumn's campaign on our army. We jogged along, making most excellent headway. In due time we came to the grand trestlework over Running Water. It was a ruin when I saw it last, bv moonlight, in September, 1863. Now, it was a grand sight to see the cars passing over the bridge, more than an hundred feet high. In oiu" march of April 30th, nothing of special incident occurred. W^e followed the route the Regiment took in its iirst advance on Chattanooga ; passing the camps of many of the Regiments belonging to the 20th Corps. These camps, as a rule, were ver}- neatly and tastily arranged, and had furnished a very comfortable abiding place for the soldiers during the winter. Now we came to the point where the road turns around the base of Lookout Mountain. This road has been greatly improved since we last traveled over it, thanks to Colonel George P. Buell and his Pioneer Brigade. The wagon road is above the railroad ; sometimes we seemed to hang just over the river. The Tennessee makes a beautiful bend here. When within a few miles of the mountain, the river turns south and hastens to do homage, by kissing the foot of Lookout, Having performed this act of devotion, she turns again to the northwest, and, passing through the Little and Big Sucks, the Frying Pan, and Skillet, (which unclassic names represent the gorges in the mountains,) bids im^ i3^=^Er> iT?srT>nrT iff "ft -rr ~ - — - ' '— ".. — : _ ''W yT ~ n" < « r rr— ".Trr HmmtSTr nf DUT _ , _ _ . - -9^ -; - I' ~ '" "" ' : :' ~ "TV^ TrrrrtrTT ^f TT^ t' Ttr^i -sr^TK ^ -^ srmf a-r - TStr *~liaE:T!?5ai H^ HDC. a:" »,ai3V*FS3F£ It no: ^tasx^ .:;^^i^z;. Iljcnt ymsm Tf^sr inmxL- - \r r T r- rar smr sl re!!::- T^ssre ice ^aihf * > osae. 3Bx^fs :Mw«ic mr" CHiirr^ in^c - ,_ _ . _, J L- ..-acie- ■c,. :a: true ssmaiiser CHAPTER XX. Beginning of the Atlanta Campaign — Chattanooga TO Resaca — Incidents Preliminary to the Mo\'e — Breaking Stone — Organization of a Regimental Christian Commission — Racket with Colored Troops — Small-pox — Pontoon Train Starts for the Front — Over Familiar Ground — Chickamauga Battlefield — Sound of Battle on the Left — Hurrying the Pontoons to the Front — Bat- tle OF Resaca — Fight at Lay's Ferry — Crossing THE OOSTANAULA ReSACA ABANDONED BY THE REB- ELS — Sherman's Army in Full Pursuit. TIlERl'v are many rumors in camp now about a forward movement. It is probable some of them are true. It is certain that there is a great stir of preparation going on. General Sherman is now in command of all the troops in this department, and he is concentrating all the available troops from other sections. For several days troops have been passing through Chattanooga, going to the front. Generals Schotield and Howard have come from East Ten- nessee with the 23d and 4th Corps. General Hooker, with the 20th Corps, has moved up from Lookout Valley. Gen- eral Thomas, with the 14th Corps, has been in position towards Dalton for some time. With General Sherman in command of this grand arm^' we will be able to accomplish something ; and it will not be manv davs until the work will begin. This armv has never been equaled, in size, equipments or valor, by any in the West. I have every confidence in our Generals, and have greater confidence^ in the Lord. I belie v^e that He will give us the victory ; not so much because we deserve it, as a reward for our fait li ful- ness and trust in Ilim. liut liecause il will be loi" His own FIFTY-EIGHTH INDIANA REGIMENT. LM51) ((lorv. It is ;i matter of deep regret that tliere is so much wickedness in our army, especially among those in high command. It is greatly to be deplored that there is so little recognition of God, in the control of our arm\', and in national affairs. But I hope that He will hear and answer tlie jirayers of the faithful few. Tuesday, May 3. — I went early this morning to yisit Private William Bennett, who is very sick of pneumonia, at general field hospital. I spoke to the surgeon about having prayers in the tent. He gave his consent, but hesitated, and looked around, as if he thought it might hurt something in the room. The following table exhibits the full strength of our Regiment at the present time : CoMPANIKS. Field and Staff. Company A Company B.._ Company C Company D Company E ._ . Company F Company G Compony H.. . Company I Company K Total. 50 42 33 20 33 32 32 27 37 23 16 I II 10 7 7 339 70 409 54 44 43 36 34 43 42 34 44 S 29 14 33 20 19 7 II 19 17 178 C'3 73 61 69 54 64 51 47 64 42 1 2 t^qq I called on Chaplain Whitehead, of the 15th Indiana. His Regiment has but forty-one more da3's to serve. Many of the officers and men, of the three years' Regiments, will feel badly after they are mustered out of the service, this summer. I am oflad I am not one of them. 290 CHAPLAIN HIGHT'S HISTORY OF THE Wednesday, May 4. — General Thomas went to the front to-day. Evidences of a pending battle thicken. A number of troops came from the rear, on the cars. Our brass band, after a long interim of lazy-do-nothing- ness, is waking up and is now playing a few tunes. Thursday, May k. — We had a meetinsf this evenina^ and took preliminary steps toward the reorganization of our Regimental Christian Association. We meet again next Monday evening. For two or three days the Army of the Tennessee, under command of General McPherson, has been passing through town, going to join the army under General Sherman, in front of Dalton. News from the East is to the effect that the Armv of the Potomac is advancinuf. With Grant in command in the East, and Sherman in the AVest, we will have some effective work. The 58th has been furnishing a daily detail of two hun- dred men, to break stone for macadamizing the streets of Chattanooga. This is necessary and useful labor, no doubt, but, to my mind, is a little below the dignity of a soldier. This is the wa}^ the bo3^s regard it, too, and express a'desire to adandon their job of stone breaking and go to the front. They say they can break stone at home, or in the peniten- tiary. But we will see enough of the front soon, if I do not miss my guess. The pontoons are all loaded, ready to move at a moment's notice, and we will go witli them. Saturday, May 7. — Qiiite a difficulty occurred to-day on the river bank, between some white and negro soldiers. The whites began the row, but the colored troops came out first best. Hugh Shaw, of our Regiment, seems to have been the leader, and there were several others of the Regi- ment engaged in the fracas. Shaw was badly handled and lost his gun. Six companies of the 14th United States Col- ored Infantry appeared on the ground to maintain order. In the meantime, the offending fools had been arrested and were put on fatigue dut\'. The day is gone, forever gone, FIFTY-EIGHTH INDIANA REGIMENT. 291 when colored soldiens in the United States Army can be insulted with impunity. Sunday, May 8. — Attended morning services at the Post Chapel. Rev. Mr. Kincade, of the Christian Commission, preached a good sermon, thirty minutes long, on Naaman. There was a man in the congregation who responded too often, too loud, and in the wrong place. Responding is a good thing, but can be overdone, and wronglv done. He said "Amen" to the triumph of the devil. He had entirely too much steam for the amount of brains he possessed. I preached in our Regiment at two p. m. to a large and attentive congregation. There is an evident increase in spirituality in the Regiment. This must be in answer to the prayers of the people at home. At 6:30 p. m., Monday, May loth, we met in front of our Regiment and perfected the organization of a Regi- mental Christian Association. Following is the constitution : CONSTITUTION OF THE CHRISTIAN ASSOCIATION OF THE FIFTT-EIGHTH INDIANA VOLUNTEERS. PREAMBLE. We, the undersigned members of the 58th Indiana Volunteers, professing to be followers of Christ, who commanded us not to forget the assembling of ourselves together, and believe it a duty which we owe to each other to meet for prayer, advice, and instruction, that we may grow in grace and the knowledge of the truth, do, for the purpose of obtaining concert of action among ourselves, and building each other up in the faith, establish and agree to be governed bv the following constitution: Article i. The Society shall be known as the Christian Association of the 5Sth Indiana Volunteers. Article 2. Its officers shall consist of a Moderator, Clerk, and an Exec- utive Committee of three, who shall be elected at the first meetings in Jan- uary, April, July, and October. Article 3. The Moderator shall open each meeting with prayer, and preside while the Association is in session. Article 4. The Clerk shall keep a book in which shall be recorded the names and address of each member of the Association, with the church of which he is a member. He shall also keep a record of the proceedings of each official meeting of the Association, which shall be held at least once a month. Article 5. It shall be the duty of the Executive Committee to look after the welfare of the Society, and if any of the members should be found acting unbecoming a christian, to report the same to the Society. 292 CHAPLAIN HIGHT'S HISTORY OF THE Article 6. Any person may become a member of this Association by renouncing his sins, confessing his faith in our Lord Jesus Christ, and obedience to His commandments. Article 7. It will be expected that every member evince his conver- sion to God by attending our meetings, taking a part therein, and by an upright and holy life. Such persons shall be entitled to a certificate of mem- bership signed by the Moderator and Clerk. Article S. The death, discharge or removal of an\- member, shall be entered upon the Clerk's book. Article 9. The Association may have a meeting at any time the Mod- erator and Executive Committee deem it expedient. Article 10. The Scripture shall be the only rule of faith and practice. Article ii. This Constitution may be changed or other articles added, by a vote of a majority of the members, at any meeting of the Association. Article 1.2. Any person who is a faithful member of the society and does not hold a membership with any church at home, may, at his own request, be recommended by the Society to the church of his choice, for membership. The followintr officers were elected : Patterson W. Wal- lace, Moderator; Henry W. Bryant, Clerk; Captain U. L. Cain, Lieutenant Jacob Davis, William Clem, Executive Committee. It was ordered that any persons desiring to join, hand in their names, residence and church to the Chaplain. The question of erectini^ an arbor Ibr public worship was dis- cussed, and deferred on account of the uncertainty of the continuance of our present camp. Appropriate resolutions were passed in reference to the death of Jesse T. Alexander. Larkin Montgomery has been sick for some days and the surgeons determined to send him to the Brigade hospital. When the ambulance came this afternoon, I followed Dr. Iloltzman over to the quarters of Company D, to see Mont- gomery put in the ambulance. When I looked in the Doc- tor was making an examination of the patient. lie has the small-po.x. I spoke a few words and came away. The pest ambulance was sent for. Before it came, and whilt^ 1 was writing in the tent, in company witli Drs. Iloltzman and Patten, in came George W. Johnson, saying: "Doctor, I have come to see what this breakino- out on me is?" FIFTY-EIGHTH INDIANA EEGIMEXT. i'0.{ The Doctor made an examination and discovered that lie, also, has the small-pox. An hour or two afterwards both are sent to the small-pox hospital. This disease has been spread all through this country by Longstreet's men. They scattered it through East Tennessee. Our men have caught it and scattered it through the North. Companies C and G, under Major Downey, are ordered to go to Ringgold, Ga., in the morning and repair roads. Thev take two wagons and an ambulance. No tents or mess chests can go. Dr. Patten will accompany them. The Regiment is to be paid to-night. I turned over about three hundred Testaments to the U.S. Christian Commission. Five hundred were sent out with us by the Gibson County (Indiana) Bible Societ}', for our Regiment. It took only about two hundred to supply our men. Many of our soldiers still have the same Testaments which they brought with them from Camp Gibson, wlien they first entered the service. Others have supplied them- selves or been recently supplied. The Regiment left camp at about six a. m., May 12th, and marched to the depot. We have three wagons, and carr\' ten days' rations and forage. We take no tents, mess boxes or valises. A large number of men are left behind. Charley Fullerton, the large, lazy and trifling leader of the band, is unnecessarily excused by the Surgeon. The Colonel then excused all the band. This cuts us off from music. It was about eight a. m. when we left the railroad depot and started on the Rossville road. First was Colonel Buell and staff. Then came Colonel Moore and six Companies of the 58th. Then came the Pontoon train, with several companies of Ponton iers scattered along. Company B, of our Regiment, was about midway, and Company F formed a rear guard. The Pontoon train was very long. At first I could not believe that there was any pontoon about it, as I saw nothing that had any semblance of a boat. I saw nothing but trestles and boards, as it appeared to me. But then there were two 294 CHAPLAIN HIGHT\S HISTORY OF THE wagons loaded with oars, and what did they want oars for if they had no boats? We, who were not posted, had consid- erable discussion about this matter, as is usual with ignorant p'^ople. After awhile I learn that the boats were to be made of canvass and were nicely rolled away. The trestles I saw were the frames on which the canvass was stretched. All the old fencing which was standing when last I trav- eled this Rossville road (September 21, 1863,) is now gone. We rested a few moments at Rossville, and moved on through the gap on the road to Lee and Gordon's Mill. The trees in the gap were well marked with rifle balls, made on the day last named. We moved on through the woods rendered famous bv the battle of Chickamauga. Different spots call up various reminiscences to the men, and there were constant recita- tions of tragic events along the line. Especial interest was taken in instructing the recruits in the historv of certain roads, hills and fields. These listened with attention, and gazed wiii marvel on the well scarred trees. In some places the timber was very much torn. A cut fifteen feet long from some of these might be quite an attraction at a fashionable Sanitary Fair, but might not make a good argument for enlisting. I rode off to the left of the road and saw where tiie breastworks had been, where the 58th stood on Sunday morning of the battle. These have been destroved by fire. 1 saw the old fields through which the enemy advanced later in the day to meet our men. And, in the distance, was the hill on which the 58th fought all day Sunday. I rode through the woods where tiie rebels, bv the aid of our bad movements, broke our lines. But in no place were the graves so numerous as where the 58th charged on Saturday afternoon. The little woods was full of them. Here a number of our men were killed and others lost. We could not identify any graves, as strangers had buried them. But the men, in many cases, could point to the very stumps and trees which sheltered them. Captain Cain saw tlie bones of poor Zeke Boren, just wiiere he died, behind the rail breast- FIFTY-EIGHTH INDIANA EEGDIENT. 295 works. There was a strong smell of decaying bodies in these woods and fields. We bivouacked just before reaching the mill. We lay about two hours resting and eating. I did not go to Craw- fish Springs, as it was too far from the command. The march is resumed and the Chickamaufja is crossed, just below the mill-dam. The mill is running for the citi- zens, but they have little to be ground. After we had left the mill a mile in the rear, we came vipon ground which the 58th had never trod before. The fences were nearly all standing, and the people were making some efforts to farm. One farmer and his famil}^ met us at the gate with buttermilk, and many smiles, professing Unionism. I have no doubt that there are many Union people in North- ern Georgia, but it requires a more extensive acquaintance than a single trip along the road to distinguish them. We bivouacked for the night at Rock Spring, eighteen miles from Chattanooga. We had heard distant cannonad- ing during the after part of the day, in the direction of Dal- ton. We heard nothing definite from the battle. Strong pickets were put out around our camp, and every precau- tion taken to prevent a surprise. Friday, May 13. — We were up at three o'clock, and an hour later we marched out on the Lafayette road. We were all out on the road before day. There were but few indica- tions of an army on this road. We met a few couriers, and heard heavy cannonading early in the day. Lafayette is a small village, now nearly deserted. There are a few good houses. The scenery about is very tine. To the left is Pea Vine Ridge, and to the right Pigeon Mountains. Catoosa Creek flows by the town. We turned to the left and went through a pass in Pea Vine Ridge. Passing on, we bivouacked for dinner at the foot of Taylor's Ridge. This ridge is a mountain. It required several hours for the long train to reach the svim- mit. Here were rifle marks upon the trees. Indeed, from this time we saw on every side the evidences of war. We 290 CHAPLAIN HIGHT'S HISTORY OF THE soon came upon the cavalry videttes of the grand armv. It was not long after, passing through some gap, that we came to the cavalry and wagon trains. Colonel Wilder was at a little cross-roads, Bivilla bv name. As there was a demand toi- the pontoon in front, Colonel Buell hurried on. After marching twenty-five miles more, we camped, about ten p. m., in Snake Creek Valley. This was a very hard day's march. It is wonderful that we succeeded in marching so many miles over such roads, and with such a long train. Saturday, May 14. — At 12:30 a. m. the camp was aroused, and, in midnight gloom, the march was resumed. Our progress was slow, owing to the roughness of the wav and the darkness of the night. As day dawned on us, we came upon large trains parked in the mouth of Snake Creek ^"alley. Here was a good position and heavy entrench- ments. We turned out into a little field in Sugar Valley, by the roadside, about seven o'clock, for breakfast. There was cannonading in front, and an occasional shot from a skir- misher. After an hour's rest, we were hurried oft' to lay a pontoon bridge over Oostanaula River. We were ordered to Lay's Ferry, but the Colonel, having no guide, went on the Cal- houn Ferry road. Several hours were spent, and our weary soldiers still more exliausted, in wandering about the dense torests. At last we paused, a mile from Lay's Ferrv. The pontoons were hastilv put together. The 58th and Ponton- iers were supported b}' a Division ot the i6th Armv Corps. Soon the storm of deadly battle was heard on the plains of Oostanaula, far to our left. The battle raged northeast of us. It continued far into the night. It was impossible to tell the result Irom the sound. No coiu^iers bring us any informa- tion. In the afternoon the 5(Sth took the boats and put them \n the mouth of Snake Creek. Soon after, they were floated down into the Oostanaula. About four hundred of General Dodge's men were ferried over by the Pontoniers. A charge was made up the other bank. One flag and tliirty FIFTY-EIGHTH INDIANA EE(.1MENT. L>!I7 prisoners were captured. The rebels were driven from the bank. It was a man in the 66th Indiana who captured the flag. It had been deserted by the enemy. He swam over and took it. He has been promised a lurlough to carry it to Governor Morton. After we had hiid down and fallen asleep, we were ordered up to move. It was about nine o'clock. The pon- toons were taken from the river. This order awakenetl considerable misgiving with main' of us. We feared that the battle of the afternoon had gonc» against the left, and we were to move back a little wa\\ But soon the order came to "unhitch, unharness, and go to bed." I suppose that the order for moving was a mistake, originating tVom an order to take up the pontoons. In the flght this at'ternoon the rebels poured in the shells very lively into our ranks. One would have torn oft' Cap- tain James M. Smith's legs, had he not moved them in time. Alonzo Stewart, of Compan^' B, was severelv wounded in the hip by a fragment of shell. I was in exact range of the battery, but sought shelter behind the large pines and oaks. One Pontonier was killed, and Ave or six wounded. Sunday, May 15. — The men were ordered to lay a bridge at the ferrv. It was completed bv noon. But little opposi- tion was made bv the enem^'. Our men tired on the rebels, but they made no replv. The battle was not resumed verv heavily on the leit. There was skirmishing and some can- nonading. We all remembered the Sunday's fight at Chick- mauga, and expected something of a repetition, but we were happily mistaken. In the afternoon a severe skirmish occurrc^d beyond the ferr^■. Our skirmishers moved out and met a stroncr resist- ance. Our men were driven to their works, hut rallied and charged on the rebels. They were repulsed, and left their dead and severely wounded on the field. A\'(' must havt> had about fifty men killed and wounded in this afiV;n-. After this firing had ceased, I rode down 10 \hv ferr\-. Our men were busy as bees, laving a second pontoon. ]")lant- 2'.»» CHAPLAIN HIGHT'S HISTOEY OF THF-: ino- o-uns, and throwing up earthworks. This is a verv tine point for crossing an army. The river bends on the right and left of the ferry, coming from and going to the enemy. This saves the ferry from being flanked, while our men hold this bank. Ju-;t below, Snake Creek empties into Oostan- aula. This aflbrds a flne cover for launching pontoons. Just over the ferrv, the countrv is level, and part of it cleared. On this side tlie ground rises. Here our guns are placed, commanding the other side. On this bank of the river the ground swells just at the water's brink, aftbrding a natural protection for infantry. Hence, although the 58th was on the ground this afternoon, participating in the fight, not a man was injured. I sat for a time on the bank, watch- ing with interest the progress of the work. War involves every species of labor. Every kind of talent is called into requisition. E/ery art and science must be practiced. It taxes man to the utmost. Not onlv does it demand his time, his industry', his talent, his acquirements, his propert}^, but his life. Yes, for here are the fruits of war, crossing on the stretch- ers over the bridge — wounded and dead men. It is no won- der that Wellington said to his staff', "Gentlemen, ours is a damnable profession." Passing over the bridge, I viewed the works which are being constructed for holding the ferrv. Another and stronger charge of the enemv is anticijiatcd tliis afternoon. But it is not made, and could not have been successful. Many stragglers are passing out even beyond the skir- mishers. They are bringing in meal, flour, meat, etc., from a rich rebel's house, just 3'onder in the edge of the woods. An ofllcer passes with some Greek and Latin works, which tell of the classic taste of the now fleeing Southerners. Monday, May 16. — About eiglit o'clock orders were issued for marching, with our surplus pontoon, to Resaca, eight or ten miles to the left. Companies A and K were left at Lay's Ferry in charge of the two bridges constructed yesterday. By the time the train began to collect at the FIFTY-EIGHTH INDTA>'A EE(UMENT. 290 cross-roads, a mile from the ferrv, the troops and trains from the left were rushing for the river. A new move was evidently on foot. The battle last night was the enemy's last struggle on the north bank of the Oostanaula. Ris posi- tions are this morninof evacuated. General Sherman is making a new disposition of his army to meet the enemy's new movements. Such an occasion is always one of "Hurrying to and fro," as described bv Bvron. We lay nearlv an hour at the cro.'^s- roads, awaiting the arrival of the remainder of our train from the ferrv. We then moved to the left. The roads were crowded with wagons, going the other wav. These were turned hastil}^ out of the way to let the Pontoon train pa'^s, as we have the right of way over everything else. We also met some troops of the i6th Corps coming the same way. These were also turned out of the road. We passed the spot where the men killed at Lav's Ferrv were being buried. We passed General Logan sitting on his horse by the roadside. It was m}' first sight of him. His complexion is dark, and he wears a heavy, villainous mustache. Now, that I have seen the man, I honor him the more for standing firm by the Union, although it was in opposition to his political faith. It is a wonderful triumph over the old man within and the mean man without. General Logan's record during this war is one that any man might well be proud of. His troops — the 15th Corps — were waiting by the roaddde to go to Lay's Ferry and cross. The woods and fields are tuU of them. The 15th and i6th Corps are under General McPherson. We now came upon the hosts of General Palmer — the I4lh Corps. The guns were stacked and the l^a^•onets gleamed brightly in the morning sun. The men were lively. Several bands were discoursing good music. The tide of battle was now turned the other way. Men were rushing towards Resaca. It was with great difiiculty that the Pontoon train w^as forced through. Colonel Buell displayed great energy and some tact, in clearing the way and hurrying forward the train. .300 (HAT'LAIX HTGHT'S HISTOUY OF THE A great change for the better has been wrought in Colonel Buell. lie has gained wisdom by his experience in the arniv. He had faults, but he was free from one prevailing fault, among manv army officers — he did not drink whisky. His swearing was only to the extent of saying, "dod dern it," which was a very mild expression, compared with some used bv many officers. But Colonel Buell is now popular with the Generals and witii his men. He is an excellent Pioneer commander. He pushes his work through rapidly. We soon began to pass the tbrtitications used by our men in the recent battles. Here are two graves in an orchard on the right. We pass a valle}^ where the trees are marked with cannon and rifle shots. We came to the strong line of entrenchments, just in front of Resaca, evacuated by the rebels this morning. The main battlefield is farther to the left. After resting a few moments at the entrenchments we moved through Resaca to the river bank. A large quantity of meal and salt, and some tents, and a few dismounted can- non, were captured at the depot. Tiiis is a strong position and difficult to be flanked. There is only one weakness about the position. It is the hill from which our men had com- mand of the railroad bridge. The 36th Georgia was cap- tured here this morning, destroying bridges. The pontoons were destroyed, except a few boats, and they were sunk. A weak wagon bridge, though fired, was saved, and the army was crossing on it. Five men passed over this bridge, when our army first entered the place, and cut the railroad trestles on the other side. This saved a long trestle work. No sooner did we reach the bank than the men went busily to work, putting together the pontoons. It was twelve m. when the labor began. By the middle of the afternoon the troops and wagons were crossing on it. In thr meantime a bridge had been constructed on the ruins of the raih-oad bridge, just at the water's edge. Two brigades ot' Stanle\"s l)ivisi(m went over there. CHAPTER XXI. Progress of the Atlanta Campaign — From the Oos- tanaula to the chattahoochee crossing the Etowah — Johnson's Position at A l l a t o o n a Flanked — About Burnt Hickory — Skirmishing ALL Along the Line — Repairing Bridges — Pon- toons AT Etowah Station — Incidents of the For- ward Movement — Acworth — Pine Mountain — Kenesaw — Marietta — Fronting Rebel Rifle Pits Across Chattahoochee. GREAT activity characterizes every movement of the army, now. Pontoons are laid and the troops are rapidh^ passing over. The telegraph repairing corps is keeping up with the advancing arm^^. A train of cars came up, almost before the smoke of battle cleared away, bringing timbers, already framed, for the repair of the railroad bridge. An occasional gun tells of the presence of the enemy in ovu" front. The most of the trains, and all of the troops, designed to cross the river at this point, having passed, by noon of the 1 8th, we moved over the battalion and began taking up the bridge. This being completed by the middle of the after- noon, and a company of Pontoniers having been detailed to construct a permanent pontoon, we move on. A few miles out we came to Calhoun, almost entirely deserted. There were some rail works runnino- throujrh the suburbs of the village. The rebels made a stand here last night. Calhoun has been a pleasant town, betore the war. There is a monu- ment to one General Nelson, of whom, perhaps, I am to blame for never liaving heard. I suppose him to have been 302 CHAPLAIX HIGHT'S HISTORY OF THE a "cornstalk GeneraF' of the old State militia times — "the better days of the republic,'' as croakers imagine. Here we overtook Company K and one of the bridges recently laid at Lay's P'erry. A mile from Calhoun we stopped for supper at Bailey's Mills, on Oothcaloga Creek. After an hour's rest we moved on, designing to go ten miles to Adairsville. The moon shone brightly and the night was lovelv. But an officer never gains anything by marching his troops at night, when there is no emergency. We have not gained an inch by night marching since leaving Chatta- nooga. Long before reaching Adairsville we all lay down, exhausted, bv the roadside, and went soundly to sleep. Near Adairsville, next morning, we passed, a point where there were more bullet marks than I ever saw, in so small a compass. On the left, a little strip of medium sized oaks were scarred in innumerable places. On the right, there is the hull of an old shop, pierced through many thousand times. Just beyond, on the left, there is a plank fence, the narrow boards of which are perfectly riddled. The ruins of a fine Georgia mansion are smoking, a few steps farther on. Two lines of temporary field works are still standing. The Loyalists occupied one and the rebels the other. The com- batants have passed on, and these marks and desolations, and a few soldiers' graves, are left to tell the tale to the pass- ing Pontoniers. Here the 4th Corps is said to have fought, and some of Hooker's men did noble execution. We soon came to Adairsville — desolate, like all the towns we come to. The citizens imagine that it is patriotic to leave their homes and entwine their destiny about the pillars of the Southern Confederacy. Many of them will be crushed beneath the ruins, when this house, founded on the sand, falls. After an hour's rest, we move a sliort distance trom the village and bivouacked in a dirty woods, by the side of a sluggish creek. It was a fine day for sleep, and in its soft embraces, the soldier, that day, forgot his toils and battle scenes. A gentle breeze, soft as a mother's lullaby, fanned FIFTY-EHiHTH INDIANA HEiilMENT. :m\ |R -NGGOLD I V C MAP OF THE ATLANTA CAMPAIGN. :}04 ("HAl'LAIX HKiHT'S UISTCUfY OF THE his wcarv boch'. Many dreamed of home, but awoke toward nightfall, to find themselvCvS soldiers, in the sunny South, Thus glides the soldier's life. The night is often his day and the day is often his night. Friday, May 20. — This morning we left Adairsville and resumed our march. We soon came to the wagon trains, the cavalry moving to the rear, and the infantry lying b}^ their guns. The grand armv seems 10 be resting on its laurels. After remaining a lew moments in Kingston, we move a quarter of a mile out and stop for orders. I caught a glance of a Major-General, standing in a hall in Kingston. It was only a glance. I had never seen him before. lie was tall and slender, and had the look of a classic teacher. At home, with a black coat on, I w^ould have guessed him the pastor of an old fashioned Presby- terian Church, who taught Greek and Latin through the week. Farther I will not go until I see him again. I was afterwards informed that it was General Sherman. After lilting our dinner of pickled pork, crackers, and colTee, we were informed that the army was to rest until IMonday, the 23d, by order of General Sherman. Turning east, and crossing the road, we camped about a nice frame mansion, owned b}^ one Clayburne. The house is deserted. The proprietor is banking at Atlanta. The farm is sterile but the water is superior, and the scenery fine, without being grand. The Regiment is placed in the orchard and tiie horses in the front yard. Tiie house served for Brigade and Regimental headquarters. Saturday, May 21. — The Armies of the Cumberland, Tennessee and Ohio rest in quiet to-da', . I am sick. Have IxHMi in bed all da v. I felt a little lietter towards night. ^\'sterday afternoon we learned of tlie death of (jeorge Kalian, First Lieutenant and (^lartcMMnaster of our Regi- ment. AV'e had left him, sick, at Decherd, l\Minesset\ on oiu" march irom Nashville. He was taken to Nashville. Was very sick, but recovered somewhat. He afterwards relajised and died, when or how, I am not informed. FIPTY-EICtHTH IXDIAXA REGIMENT. .'5 or. He was a native of Scotland, and "his speech betrayed him." His business qualifications were of the tirst order. He was industrious, living much of the time in the saddle. He was an excellent penman and book-keeper. Few men could get up a neater or more correct report. He had traveled extensively and read many books. In short, he was a highly gifted young man, with fine conversa- tional powers, rare musical attainments, and polished manners. His was one of the brijxhtest minds in the Reo-- iment. Monday, May 23. — The rest of the grand arm\' was broken to-da^'. We early left our camp, and moved south from Kingston. We crossed Two Run Creek near the town. We travel along a blind path, through a desolate land of tall pines. The soil was covered with a carpet of wild strawberries. We met the head of the 20t]i Corps, led b}' General Hooker. He is a popular man among the soldiers. We reached the Etowah, at Milam's Bridge, The oppo- site bank is occupied by a few of our cavalry. One bridge is completed in an hour and twent}^ minutes. Immediately the 20th Corps began to pour over. The troops are followed by their trains. The 4th and 14th Corps are passing a few miles farther down the river. While this is ffoinp- on, the enemy is look- incr for us in vain, at Etowah Station. It is very interesting to look on while an army is crossing a pontoon. It is a great place to study human nature. In the military world, everybody is impressed In' his own importance. Even mule drivers are liighly offended whiMi the guards tell them to drive slow. The guards themselves are impressed with their otlice. Thej' take peculiar delight in dismounting passing officers. Tuesday, May 24. — The 20th Corps having crossed yes- terday and last night, the 23d began passing early this morn- ing. This Corps is from Knoxville, plus six new Indiana Regiments, under General Hovey. 306 CHAPLAIN RIGHT'S HISTORY OF THE About the middle of the afternoon, the 23d Corps was all over. Colonel Buell immediately took up the pontoon. Rumor said the position was to be evacuated, and even the railroad given up to Resaca. Sherman designs to swing around to the right, that he may turn the position of the enemy at Allatoona. It was dark by the time the pontoons were taken from the stream. A furious rain storm prevailed while the loads were being adjusted. I lay on the floor of an old house. Here I found shelter and some sleep. At nine o'clock we moved south. It was dark, and the roads were horrible. After traveling about two miles, we were effectively stopped b}' the trains in advance. The fields on either side were fallow ground. We put down some rails for a bed. After walk- ing three-fourths of a mile to get a drink from a filthy stream, I lav down and finished mv sleep. Fence rails make a good bed. Wednesday, May 25. — As soon as the preceding trains moved, we followed. We soon passed beyond the bounds of fertile lands, and entered upon a desolate region of pines. Occasionally we would, hnd a little hut and a patch of cleared ground. Most of these were without occupants. We stopped an hour for dinner. Soon after this, we came upon a part of the 23d Corps. They had been in camp but were falling in, to march towards Burnt Hickory. We followed them, and encamped for the night near that place. This is on the old Carolina and Kentucky stock road. Forage for the stock was scarce in early times, and is yet. There stood here a hickor\^ tree. At its base the passing travelers kindled their camp fires. Thence the place took the name of "Burnt Ilickorv." l^ong after the tree had fallen down and been destroyed, the name is retained. There are a few houses scattered up and down the road, but Burnt Hickorv can not even boast of being a village. About dark the mail came, and the rain began to fall. JBefore this the sound of battle came from the front. While FIFTY-EIGHTH INDIANA EEGIMENT. 307 the rain fell, and we were trying to open the mail and read our letters in our open tents, the sound of musketry contin- ued. It soon hushed, and all was still. We occupy a little line of temporary works, constructetl hv our men last niij^ht. We are on the extreme left, save a few cavalry. The next morning dawned in comparative quiet. Some skirmish tiring was all we lieard to-day. In the al'ternoon we moved about three miles to the right. The road was encumbered with troops and trains, and there was considerable difficulty in getting our people along. Major Downe\^ had quite a difficulty with a Colonel in Baird's Division. The Major savs the Colonel was drunk. I know the Major was. The Colonel stopped the train. Colonel Buell reports him to department headquarters. Some of our high officers are possessed with the strange conceit that their wisdom rises with their rank. I have often known them to be informed of some fact b\' an inferior in rank. Many of them can not bear this. Many officers study secretiveness, and, by great reserve, pretend to know more of the movements than those below. I am a Chaplain, and am not in the line of promotion. I stand where I did at home. I am sometimes not a little amused at the pretended military acquirements of some men, whom, at home, I knew were not smart, and in the army never study. Some of these fellows, who were not known bevond their immediate neigh- borhoods at home, can scarcely find room in their bodies to hold their own importance. We have thousands of men in the ranks who have wealth, or talent, or reputation. Most of our officers, however, are worthy, humble and capable men. Friday, May 27. — The marcli was resumed. At the lirst road on the right, we were joined by Company A, and the pontoon detachment, left at Lay's Ferr}-, on the Oostanaula. Lieutenant Behm, in command of the Company, is sick in the ambulance. The remainder of the command is in tine health and spirits. :]()i5 CIIArLATN IIKillT'S lIlSTOlfV OF TllK Company A has liad a -somewhat different experience from the others, since leaving Resaca. The}- were left in charge of the two bridges at Lay's Ferry, and, after all the troops had crossed over, they took up the bridges and marched to a point opposite Rome, where the}^ put down another bridge, upon which General Jeff. C. Davis' Division crossed and took possession of Rome. This was a rich depot for the rebel army, and they had not been able to get all their stores away on account of the suddenness of their flight. Large quantities of salt and meal were cap- tured by our men. When Colonel Streight's command was captured, near this place in 1863, and brought into Rome as prisoners, they were subjected to man}^ indignities, by the proud and haughty rebel citizens. A just and righteous retribution now over- takes them, in the burning of tlieir houses by indignant sol- diers. One-half of the Rome newspaper was found struck ofl', giving a flaming account of Johnson's success against Sher- man. " The sun would not set behind the Catooga hills," the editor said, "ere the whole Yankee armv would be cap- tured." But things did not turn out that way. Before the other side of his paper was printed, the editor, himself, found it necessary to flee behind the hills to avoid capture. Our boys took possession of his sanctum and immediately began the publication of a tri-weekly paper, of loyal sentiments. While in this place, Dr. Patten fell into an argument with one of the natives, an old man, who owned one slave, on the irrepressible slavery question. "Slavery could not be put down," he said, "because niggers always had been and always would be slav^es. For the Bible says of Cain, 'his har shall be kink}', his skin black, and a sarvant of sarvants shall be all the da3^s of his life.' " "Where is that passage in the Bible?" inquired the Doctor. "Wall, I cannot exactl}- tell, but if Mary was here she could lind it ." FTFTY-EKJHTir INDIANA T^EOniENT. :tO!i The Doctor got a Bible, and turning to the history ot Cain, asked the old man to read it, but discovered that he was unable to read. So the Doctor read the story and explained its meaning. He was making quite a t'avorable impression on the ignoramus, and was encouraged to believe that he would instill some sense into him, when Lieutenant Mur- phy, who loves a joke, spoke up and said to the old man that this scripture had been changed b}^ Abraham Lincoln. Of course the Doctor could do no more with his subject alter this. The ignorant slave-holder went away horror struck, at the wickedness of Abraliam Lincoln. The people of Rome were much alarmed lest Colonel Streight should visit them. Our men took great delight in spreading the report that Colonel Streight was to be placed in command of the post. We camped near Pumpkin Vine Creek, after marching about four miles. We are as near the front as is advisable. The sound of the musketry and cannonading can be dis- tinctly heard a few miles in front. The Pumpkin Vine is a sluggish stream, whose waters look as if they might poison the land through which they pass. There are hills about us. Where the battle is, the ground is rolling, and forest dense. General Grant is still successful against Lee, and Sherman against Johnson. If Richmond and Atlanta are captured, and the rebel armies driven back, what then? Evidentl}^ Lee and Johnson will attempt to concentrate. If thev suc- ceed, it would be almost impossible to save one of our armies from defeat. Nothing but a retreat on Chattanooga could save Sherman's army. If this was once accomplished, com- binations could readilv be made to meet the rebel army. But some time would be consumed in these movements. There would be a great fluttering at home, and "there, now, I told you so," abroad. Gold would go up and greenbacks down. The war would be prolonged. Hence, it is neces- sary to prevent a concentration of the rebel armies. Can it be done by Grant and Sherman pressing their opponents ;]10 CHAPLAIN HTCtHT'S HISTOHY OP THE severely? No, for the rebels have the railroad, and can leave the Yankees behind. But if, after passing Atlanta and Richmond, heavy cavalry expeditions are sent out to destroy the railroads between Lee and Johnson, and at the same time, and all the time, Sherman flanks to the left, and Grant to the right, rebel concentration can not take place. But it will require great energy and watchfulness. Our rations must be kept up. Our teams must be fed well. Reinforce- ments must be constantly coming forward. Small expedi- tions must be abandoned. With the single exception of a vigorous campaign beyond the Mississippi, all else should be abandoned, save tiiese two grand movements now in pro- gress. What folly to have forces in Florida, or South Carolina, or Texas, when we can gain nothing by staying, and lose nothing by going away. It would be pleasant, indeed, to occupy all our land. But we must first conquer the rebel armies, and then we can occupy the rebel country with ease and safety. To over-run is not to conquer a countr\'. It is the men,- not the land, that rebel. Our authorities are becoming impressed with this fact, and are acting accordingly. \"ictory, and an early peace, must be the result of tiiis improved policy, provided the blessings of God are upon us. Otherwise, we must be defeated. May He favor the right. Satukuav, Mav 28. — The road crossing the creek passes east from our camp. Out on this road, or apparentU' a little to the south of it, lieavy musketry was heard last night. This morning heavy skirmishing is heard along that part of our lines. A general engagement is anticipated. All our army is now in position. On the extreme right is the 1 stii and i6th Corps, under General McPherson. Then comes General J. C. Davis, 2d Division of the 14th Corps. Next is tlie 20th Corps, under General Hooker. Tlien we have the 1st and j,d Divisions of the 4th Corps. Then comes the 1st l^ivision, under General Johnson, of the 14th Corps. Then we have the 2d and 3d Divisions, of the 23d Corps. FIFTY-EIGHTH INDIANA EEGIMENT. :ni The 3d Division, General Baird, of the 14th Corps, and the 1st Division, General Hovev, of the 23d Corps, are in the rear, guarding trains. The skirmishing of the morning does not increase, but seems to die awav. In the afternoon, in company with Lieutenant-Colonel Moore, Surgeon Holtzman, and Lieutenant and Acting Qiiartermaster Torrence, I rode towards the front. When I heard the tirst ball whizz I stopped with Dr. Holtzman. As I had no business, nor even curiosity in reference to the extreme front, and had seen fighting and heard balls whizz many a time before, I did not think it necessary to crowd into useless danger, that ...™^ I may be called brave. When I die I want to be at the post of duty. Men often expose themselves through sheer cow- ardice. We found many graves in the woods. Most of them are Hooker's men, killed in the engagement of the 25th. It seems that there was but one Division of the 20th Corps engaged. They must have fought well, for thev drove the enemv and lield their ifround. Our lines have been advanced but little, as Hooker found the enemy's entrenchments on the night above named. Skirmishing is going on all the time. Wounded men are constantly coming back to the hospitals. The number of CAPTMX HKNRY TORRENCE, Company D. * Was mustered in as Qj\arterniaster- Sergeant. November 12, 1S61, pro- moted Second Lieutenant CJonipany D, April 13th, 1S63. to First Lieutenant November 4, 1S63, to Captain March i, 1S65. After his army service he returned to his old home in Xenia, Ohio, and engaged in mercantile business. He served a term as Recorder of Greene county, and was for some time Chairman of the Republican Central Committee of that county. Captain Torrence vvas a prominent and influential citizen of his native town and county, and was highly esteemed by all who knew him. His death, which occurred September 16, iSSi, was a cause of profound sorrow to his manv friends and comrades. n\'2 CHAPLATX HTGHT'S IITSTOI^Y OF THE men killed and wounded during the 25th, 26th, 27th, and to-day, is very large. Wood's Division was repulsed yes- terday. From an inspection of the grounds, and from the statements and opinions of men on the held, I am impressed that we have gone as far as we can, even by charging. A flank movement of some kind should now be made. The works might be taken by storming ; but suppose we were to fail, what then? I can not believe General Sherman will trv it. We had a good prav^er meeting in the evening. We all anticipated a quiet Sabbath. No assault on the enemv's stronghold, on this day, was anticipated. In this, we were not disappointed. But we were not permitted to remain quietlv in camp, as we were ordered to Burnt Hickory, about the middle of the forenoon. As all the trains seemed to have similar orders, it was three p. m. before we began to move. Even then, we passed thousands of vvai*'ons standin. — One hundred men from the 58th, and some otlior di^tails tVom the Pioneers, all inider Lieutenant Ilunlingtoii, constructed a ]">ri(lge over Pumpkin \'iiu> Creek, FIFTY-EIGHTH INDIANA I{E(;iMEXT. :n 5 near Vaughan's Ferrv. It is seventy-tive feet long. Another detail, under Lieutenant Murray, constructed a sub- stantial bridge over Starns' Creek. Colonel Buell is ordered to march his command to Alla- toona, and repair the roads as he goes, and we march at eleven a. m. The rain is falling, and, as the road lits through a marsh\' plain, the travel is bad. Our general course is northeast. Having gone a few- miles, we leave the road to Allatoona, and turn ofl' to the inevitable Pumpkin Vine Creek. On the banks of this stream we camp, in a wheat field and pine thicket. A bridge is immediately commenced. Sunday, June 5. — The Sabbath morning was gloomv. I lay until near noon under my shelter, meditating on John 5 :24, "God is a Spirit, and they that worship Him must wor- ship Him in spirit and truth." About noon the march towards Allatoona was resumed. Companies A, F and D were left, under command of Major Downey, to complete the bridge. After all the trestles were up, save one bent, it fell down, but killed nobody. Cause : The pins had not been put in I A Sergeant in charge declared, "I knew a circumstance just like that once before" "A wayfaring man, though a fool," would have pinned as he went. The clouds broke away. The sun resumed his wonted splendor. We passed a part of the road where but few of our men had passed. The train dragged heavily. Many of the mules had had no corn for five days. They were very poor when we started. A number of wagons did not reach camp, and some of the mules died. Allatoona is a deserted village, at the rear of the Allatoona Hills. General Sherman flanked General Johnson out of this position, by moving to the right. Stopping an hour at Allatoona for supper, we finished our march bv night. We stowed ourselves awav on a hillside, near the Etowah river, for sleep. Here we experience the disagreeable sensation of trying to sleep while slipping dov^n HHi CHAPLAIN HKIHT'S HISTORY OF THE tlie hill. But even this is more pleasant than a conscience ill at ease. For the guilty man there is no rest. "The way of the transgressor is hard." Monday, June 6. — Early this morning we moved our train to the river bank, near the railroad. The men were encamped in an open field and the train parked on the river bank. Under a wide-spreading walnut tree our Regimental headquarters are pitched. This is a romantic spot. On this side of the river there is a basin, surrounded by the Allatoona Hills. Through this basin the railroad runs, there being a fill of about fort}^ or fifty feet. Into this valley General Johnson attempted to draw General Sherman. But Sherman has been about too much to be thus easily drawn in. On the other side of the river there are two hills, with the railroad running between. The one south of the railroad is the lower, and has some fortification on its summit. It is about ninet3^-five feet abov^e the river. The hill north of the railroad must be two hun- dred feet hiplies for the arniN'. Soon troops Irom liie rear FIFTY-EIGHTH INDIANA REGIMENT. 317 began to come in on the other side of the river. They proved to be a portion of the 17th Corps, under General F. P. Blair. They came up the Mississippi river and landed at Cairo, and vicinity, in March last. Here, they remained until about May ist. They were then transported up the Tennessee to Clifton. They left this point, on the 9th of the month, and passed through Huntsville, Decatur and Rome. General Blair assumed command at Huntsville. A few of the troops, and many of the wagons, crossed to-dav. The train is verv long and the wagons are in good repair. The mules are much superior to those in the Army of the Cumberland. Evidently, they were never about Chattanooga. There were a number of negro women and children in the train. The women are almost, and the chil- dren entirely, useless. Women must often be hauled on the alread}' overloaded wagons. And, then they are such creatures to collect baggage. You have noticed them at home, with their trunks, bandboxes, bundles and babies. It takes all their male acquaintances to help them on the train. The negro women in the army have the same failing. They have more baggage than the officers. Wednesday, June 8. — Yesterday, Dr. Holtzman went to Chattanooga to take medical charge of the Pioneer Brigade, vice Dr. Fuller, whose time shortly expires. The remainder of General Blair's command crossed the river this morning. Some of the Regiments are very large, and there are quite a number of brass bands in the Corps. In the afternoon I rode up to the iron works, from three to six miles above Etowah Station. All the workshops have been burned. The families of the workmen are now being removed, preparatory to the destruction of their houses. I am opposed to this arson. I cannot better give my reasons than by a short description of the works. Passing under the railroad bridge on the right bank, we continue to travel on a good wagon road, along the bank. A branch railroad runs to the foundries. There is a high range of hills on our left, which are full of iron. The 318 CHAPLAIN HIGHT'S HISTOEY OF THE Etowah has considerable fall, affording plenty of water power. There are building spots in the narrow bottoms and on the hills. Stone, for building, of the very best material, is abundant. The ore is rich and plenty, in fact, endless. There were two furnaces, one of them on Stump Creek. Besides these there w^as a rolling mill, large grist mills, saw mills, cooper shops, etc. Several hundred hands were employed. Munitions of w'ar — shot, mess pans and camp kettles, was all that I have heard of their manufacturing. I have no means of arriving at the value of these extensive and valuable w^orks. But it must not have been less than one million dollars. Instead of destro^'inp■ this lar£{e amount of property, would it not have been better to have confis- cated it, and paid a million of our National debt? And then, why impoverish our land by wantonly destroying its wealth ? Especially that which kindles a fire in our manufacturing establishments. But, more especiall}', why burn down poor people's huts? Can it accomplish any good? If we have any design of evacuating this position, it might be well to destroy as much of these works as mig^ht aid the rebellion. But there is no sense in making war on women and children. I learn that the stack, dam, etc.. which can not be burned, are to be left standing. There is more sense in destroying these than in burning the houses of the poor. The order for the destruction of this propert}- will demoralize our own men. Already pillaging has commenced. Already our cav- alry feel at liberty to burn houses. Soon our infantr}- will learn the same from their commanders. Thursday, June 9. — The army has been laying cjuiet for a few days. The order is to march this morning, with ten days' rations. General Sherman acts as if he only desired to occupy the attention of the enemy, and hold him here. Friday, June 10. — The big event of to-day is the raid of General Wheeler, in our rear. He has taken Calhoun. No trains came in during the early part of the day. In keeping with these rumors, preparations are making at this post. We have here the 45th Illinois, 58th Indiana, six FIFTY-EIUHTH INDIANA KEGIMENT. 3 19 companies of Pontoniers, and a few detachments. Small bodies of troops are passing at almost all hours of the day. Colonel Buell had two little lines of rifle pits constructed. One is in the sand, just at the river bank, covering the pon- toons. The other is a few hundred feet in advance. A Captain came to the right bank of fhe Etowah river, to-day, with a large drove of cattle. On the opposite bank there is a spring, at which a number of soldiers of our Reg- iment were getting water. The Captain, desiring to swim his cattle, ordered them away. Either not understanding, or not caring for his order, they did not move, whereupon the Captain fires at them with a revolver, but does not hit any- body. They report to Regimental headquarters, when John Whittlesey, with about ten men, is sent to the spring, with instructions to guard the water, and, if necessary, deploy along the river bank, and hold the position at all hazards. Major Downey mounts his horse, in hot haste, dashes across the pontoon, arrests the offending Captain, and takes him before Colonel Buell. The parties tired upon are called, and their testimony taken. The Captain produces an order from General Sherman, giving him preference on the roads over troops or trains. On this, and the testimony, Colonel Buell acquits and justifies the Captain. iVIajor Downey returns to his quarter, fired with indigna- tion, and boiling over in words, bv no means chaste or com- plimentary to Colonel Buell. He prepares an inquir}', addressed to the Assistant Adjutant-General of the Depart- ment of the Mississippi, stating the facts of the case, and asking whether it was the design, in giving this order, to authorize firing upon unarmed men, as was done by this Captain, and whether Colonel Buell had not exceeded his authority. Also requesting that the decision of the Colonel be reversed and the Captain be placed under arrest, and an opportunit}'- offered to prefer charges against him. This paper is taken to Brigade headquarters. Here the matter ended. I am not informed exactly how it died, but it is dead. 1 will not make any post mortem. 320 CHAPLAIN HIGHT'S HISTOBY OF THE Tuesday, June 14. — This has been a chiy of exceeding loveliness. The rain is over. The air is pleasant, the breezes are soothing, and all nature is quiet. Cannonading was heard in the morning. We are now nearly twenty miles from the front. Twenty-iive of our Regiment came up this afternoon. They are chiefly men who were wounded at Chickamauga, captured and paroled, and are now exchanged. Amongst them is Sergeant Keeler, of Compan}' B. He is a most excellent man and was always a leading spirit in all our meetings. Some days since, about twenty-five others came up. The arrival of these men is almost like the raising of the dead. Many of them we never expected to meet again in the army. After the fatal battle of Chickamauga, our camp was exceedingly lonesome, because of the many familiar faces which were missing. Most of them had been killed. Some are still in Libby Prison. Captain William Davis, having been incapacitated for active service in the field, by his wounds, has been honor- ably discharged from the service by the Secretary of War. He was one of our best officers and men. I rode two miles from ihe station to Cartersville, on the railroad. In its halcyon days this must have been a village of 1,200 inhabitants. It is situated in a fertile valley. Even now the surrounding lands seem determined to flourish, despite the ravages of war. But the effort is vain ; for the fences are torn down, and the wheat is being fed to the horses and mules. The time has never been when Cartersville could boast of lier architecture. There are a few houses which w-ere once pleasant residences, and there are one or two good churches. There are more residents here than in any village I have seen in Georgia. " This is owing, in part, to the fact that the place was taken from the rear, and the people did not have the same chance to nm away, as many did in other towns. But it was chiefly caused by bringing the families from the iron works. The people arc very poor, dirty, and ignorant. FIFTY-EIGHTH INDIANA REGIMENT. 821 General Sherman has captured a courier, bearing a dis- patch from Johnson to one Jackson, a rebel cavalr}^ General, ordering the latter to capture this point and burn the rail- road bridge. Our officers are, there tore, on the lookout. Ammunition was distributed to-night, and we were ordered to be in line of battle at two p. m. Private Patterson W. Wallace preached us an excellent sermon this evening, on "Learning of Jesus." This is the first time I ever heard him. He took occasion, amongst other thoughts, to represent to us that the school of Christ is free. He contrasted the free school system of the North with the ignorance of the South. He made a very happy illustration, and a very good impression on his audience. The nomination of Abraham Lincoln and Andrew John- son for President and Vice-President, meets my hearts- approbation, and the platform adopted is all right. The wagon bridge having been rebuilt, the pontoon bridges were taken from the river, and in the afternoon of June 17, we marched from our camp at Etowah. We were reinforced by about fifty pontoon wagons, belonging to McPherson's army, and guarded by the 8th Kansas. The boats are trestles covered with canvass, similar to ours, but the sides are heavier, and have no hinges in the middle. All the balk and chess is heavier. It is a better bridge, but it must be almost impossible to transport it about the countr}-. It is inferior to ours as a field pontoon. This train was reported to Colonel Buell and Ibllowed on the march in our rear. The road through the Allatoona hills is very bad. The almost daily rain, during the present month, and the innum- erable wagon trains, have cut up the road very much. Sunday, June 19. — We are now in camp near Ackworth, having reached this point yesterday afternoon. This morn- ing the clouds were light. There was prospect that we would not be visited by rain during the day, so I blacked my boots, brushed my clothing, put on a paper collar, and attempted to look as nice as I could. I do not wish to entirely forget the ways of civilization upon the Sabbath yL>2 CHAPLAIN RIGHT'S HISTORY OF THE day. I passed through the Regiment during the morning, and notitied the men that we would have preaching at the usvial hour — two p. m. But our plans failed, as usual. During the forenoon there came an order directing the six companies of Pontoniers, who have been with us since our start on this campaign, to return to Chattanooga. The detachment of Pioneers is to accompany them. An engin- eers' Regiment is being organized there, and this movement is to give them an opportunity to enlist in that organization. The 58th must take the teams, and attend to both pioneer- ing and pontoniering, and there is great excitement in con- sequence. A detail of one hundred teamsters, including three Sergeants, was made. Most of them volunteered ; indeed, I am not sure but all of them did. This detail marched from Colonel Buell's quarters, amongst the wagons, and snatched for the teams. Now, good teams are exceed- ingly scarce in the pontoon train, hence tliere was quite a hustling around. It is no easy berth to drive a pontoon wagon. The mules are poor, as only four pounds of corn is allowed each, per day. Many of the wagons are very heavy, especially the balk wagons. Most of the new drivers think they will have gay times in their new vocation. But alas ! Little do they know of the sorrows of mule drivers. Six bony shadows to feed, curry and water ; their idiosyncrasies bv dav and by night to be borne ; the long, muddy roads to be tramped through ; the weary night marching ; the jeers of everybody, and the orders of officers — all render mule driving not "A consummation devoutly to be wished." Lieutenant Wood passed through the Regiment, and made a detail of mechanics, to act as a repairing party. He selected nearly fifty. About noon orders came to march, and at one ]i. m. the march began. The Pontoniers are to remain, to give us a start. The old teamsters harnessed up and drove out for the new hands. We moved on the INIarietta road, which was incrediblv bad. Not onlv the old roads, but the entire FIFTY-EIGHTH IXDIAXA REGIMENT. ;]2;} woods and fields are cut up. We soon come to the old camps of our men. Our army moved to these parts from the neighborhood of Dallas, and Pumpkin Vine Creek, where we left them a few weeks ago. We soon passed a line of entrenchments, heavy and substantial, made by our men. Not very far in advance of these, we passed another, still more substantial, facing a range of mountains, hills and ridges. A few days ago these latter were occupied by the enemy. On the right is Lost Mountain. Just by us is Pine Mountain. Between are hills. A few days ago there was severe fighting here. Passing through the last named works, we wound up a mountain slope, and camped on the other side. So slight was the ascent, that we were almost unconscious of being on the mountains. Many of the men were ignorant of the fact until subsequent events revealed it to them. It was after dark, on the 19th, when we pitched our camp, in a wet spot, amid the debris of old encampments. It is always disagreeable to thus camp, as you do not know how much filth is about your habitation. I spoke about the idios^nicrasies of mules. I might, with much greater propriety, speak of the idiosyncrasies of mule drivers. It requires more patience than the majority of men possess, to follow this calling, successfully. Hence, the profanity of mule drivers has become proverbial. Many of them swear most recklessly. But I have yet to observe the good accomplished by this. I noticed, on yesterday, and during this morning, there were teamsters who would delib- erately go and whip their mules. Having none other on which to vent their wrath, they would pour out their pent up indignation, by lashing their mules. Woe betide the unfor- tunate mule whose master is dyspeptic, or ill-tempered. I am sure, could these animals speak, that many of them would shout, "glory to God," in bidding adieu to their old masters. But not all teamsters are deserving of condemnation. Man^' of them are exceedingly careful, attentive, and kind, and their mules are fat and sleek. 324 CHAPLAIN HIGHT'S HISTORY OF THE The Pioneers and Pontoniers left us to-day. Additional details were made to manage the pontoons, and we can get along very well. We have about three hundred and fifty men, which is sufficient for all purposes. Just before our camp is a heavy line of rebel works. The rebels are learning every day to depend more on such defenses. Were it not for the fact that these works can usually be flanked, I do not know what we would do. All our men would soon be slaughtered. The earth is so large that there is room to pass around the end of the longest entrenchment. So, if rivers or mountains are not in the way, our army usually flanks the rebels. How fast our people are learning war I At Pittsburg Landing, Grant had no defenses. If he had, it would have saved him from defeat the first day, and saved many from death. After being driven to the river bank he constructed none. The rebels, on that night, might have made works from the river above to the river below, which would have defied the impetuosity of Buell's new levies, for a day or two. But it was then rather thought discreditable. Entrench- ing was only to be resorted to when your army was smaller than the enemy. I remember distinctly, when in this army, it was thought to be cow^ardl}^ to stand behind a tree in time of battle. Now, it is considered a man's duty to shield him- self all he can without shrinking from duty. I ascended along the rebel works. The mountain side is thickly set with a growth of oaks, and a pine here and there. Soon I stand upon the summit of Pine Mountain. Most of the trees have been cut from the top, and a rebel fort built. Here fell Lieutenant-General Polk, of the rebel army, on the 14th inst. He was struck in the side by a piece of shell and was terribly mangled. Once a shepherd of the fold of Christ — a Bishop in the Episcopal Church — he laid aside the robes of his holy office, to battle with carnal weapons for human slavery. He must have often been smitten by his conscience. "He, that being often reproved, liardeneth his neck, shall suddenly be destroyed, and tliat without remedy." FIFTY-EIGHTH INDIANA REGIMENT. 325 "Do you wish to see his monument?" asks the inscrip- tion in St. Paul, London, refering to its builder, Sir Chris- topher Wren, "Look about you." Here, over many miles, nature's wonders commemorate the greatness of Deity. The sun is shining with golden beauty on the Allatoona mountains, though clouds shut him from our gaze. The regions of Etowah are also illuminated. Thus in life, though the present is gloom}', there is sunshine on the mountain and the river beyond. Where I now stand, a few days since, the proud traitors stood, and looked in scorn upon the hated Yankees, in the valley below. They could see them by thousands behind their entrenchments. I imagine the rebels held these Yankee ditches as much in contempt, as Remus did those of Romulus. And perchance the Lieuten- ant-General, named above, bethought himself another Jupiter, holding in his red right hand the thunderbolt of Divine wrath. The northern mountain side is torn in many places by the shot and shell fired by our guns. The throne of Jupiter is much battered. North of the mountain, not onh' can be seen Allatoona, but many other mountains. Away to the noi'theast, as far as sight can pierce, "Alps on Alps arise.'' To the northwest the land is more level. Ever3^where the forest seems almost unbroken. Here and there can be seen a cleared field. On the mountain there are two signal stations. One on the south communicates with Kenesaw Mountain, and another on the west with Lost Mountain. The latter's flag, swinging against the clear sky, is black ; the former's, hav- ing an earthly background, is white. Lost Mountain must be about ten miles to the right. It is well named, for it stands without a fellow. Southward a grand scene opens upon our view. In front of Lost Mountain there are innumerable chains of hills and ridges. Hid away in some of these, from our view, is the 326 CHAPLAIN RIGHT'S HISTORY OF THE Chattahoochee river. Ten miles in front of us, on a com- manding hill, is the Georgia Military College. It seems, at this distance, a magnificent building. It stands in an open space, with a few shade trees and out-buildings surrounding. This side of the college there are a few house tops, which I suppose mark the site of Marietta, concealed from our view. Just to the left of the college, and apparently six miles from us, is a hill, and then the twin mountains — Kenesaw. The one upon the left is the higher. Each is stripped of foliage at the summit, save a few scrubby brush, and one tall tree upon the left mountain, reserved, no doubt, for a lookout. The sides of these mountains are very rocky. On the tops the rebel parapets mav be seen with the naked eye. Still to the left, and farther away, there are mountain ranges, connecting Kenesaw with the great mountain chains of Tennessee, Carolina, and Virginia. Nearer where we stand, there is a constant succession of hills and valleys. Though heavily timbered, there are some open spots. On the left is the railroad. In front, in a long line of about ten miles, may be seen the entrenchments and tents of Sher- man's armv. Through the opening, here and there, winds the long, sluggish wagon train, bearing rations or ammuni- tion to the front, or wounded to the rear. The winds are gently playing in the mountain pines. The fleecy clouds are flying athwart the skv. Now they thicken, and while nature scatters from one hand the sun- shine, from the other the baptism of water is poured on hill and valley. But hark : '• 'Tis the cannon's loud roar,"' and tile crash ot musketry, that falls upon our ears ! "Lol from the regions of the North The red'ning storm of battle pours, Rolls along the trembling earth, And fastens on Corinthian towersl" From early morning until night the cannonading- increased. During a part of the afternoon it raged furi- ously. When darkness came the flash of the guns could be FIFTY-EIGHTH INDIANA REGIMENT. 327 distinctly traced. The musketiy was only hea^'y skirmish- ing. It is grand beyond any description, thus to look upon the battle, and I sat and gazed for several hours upon this scene. Our army appeared to advance a little upon the right, but no disposition was manifested, upon either part, to press the battle. How strange, that man will thus disturb the beauty and repose of nature ! Tuesday, June 21. — After the fashion of the times, we have had showers to-day. Though we are on the moun- tains, we are in the mud. The fury of the battle increases to-day. It burst forth during the forenoon and raged until dark. Indeed, there was neither beginning nor ending. There is no moment, of either day or night, when there is an entire cessation of musketry. The fighting is more to the right, and seemingly more advanced. The country is full of entrenchments, con- structed by Governor Brown's pioneers for the army. When the rebels are driven from one line, they fall back to another. This makes hard work for our army. This morning we had pontoon drill, by the four Companies of the Regiment who are to serve as Pontoniers, The vari- ous squads of men are numbered in sections, each with a dis- tinct duty. One section carries "balk," another "chess," another ties the "lashings," etc. The men learn very fast, and soon will make excellent Pontoniers. The Pontoniers who have just left us are generally lazy. Our men are American farmer boys, and are naturally intelligent and industrious. Whisky rations are issued to the men. This is quite com- mon in the army at present. The uncommon exposure of our soldiers has led the commissary department to procure stimulants for them. The idea prevails with many, that men can endure more when they have whisky. This idea is common with those who are the victims of that lassitude which follows intoxication. But men who abstain entirely from strong drink can endure far more than those who use ;{2!l CHAPLAIN MIGHT'S HISTORY OF THE stimulants. To them, the heat of summer, the cold of win- ter, the damp entrenchment, and the battle long protracted, are not so trying as to the victims of intoxication. The tem- perate man retains, undiminished, the lorce of nature, while whisky shatters and destroys the constitution. As a medi- cine, it may be useful, but in every other case it is an evil. Officers and men who are under the influence of whisky are unfit for their duties. Battles hav^e been lost, and men slaughtered, by whisky. There are hundreds of men now in their graves, who have been killed in battle, either because they or their officers were drunk. I rode down on the battlefield this afternoon. The rebels had line alter line of heavy works, and face in almost every direction. Our men seem to have fought from almost every point of the compass. The trees are torn by big and little shot. As one rides through these forests, it seems that no one could pass through such a storm of battle, as lately swept here, without having a charmed life. I fell in with a scout, who was in Marietta yesterday. He estimates the rebel forces at 80,000, including 15,000 Geor- gia militia. The}^ are well clothed and fed, for rebels, and are in excellent spirits. The}- seem to manifest no disposi- tion to evacuate. They do not like the nomination of Andrew Johnson for Vice-President. The}' regard him as a traitor to the South. Major Downey, Dr. Iloltzman, Lieutenant Milburn, the band, and a few men, came up from Chattanooga on the 23d and joined the Regiment. They had charge of a few valises — among them was mine — and some other items. This side of Dalton a portion of the train, containing this propert}'-, was deserted. Major Downey and his crew abandoned his charge, with two guards. The rebels plundered the train, carrying ofl' the valises. Saturday, June 25. — AtkM- breakfast. Dr. Iloltzman and I mounted our horses and rode to Big Shanty, which is the depot for the Army of Tennessee. The station is said to have been named from the shanty — 40x70 feet — built here FIFTY-EIGHTH INDIANA EEGIMENT. 329 by the contractor, who graded this portion of the raih^oad. This was the biggest shanty then in these parts. There were innumerable trains about the depot. We could see no end to wagons in any direction. We next rode to General Thomas' headquarters, which we found to be in motion. They were pitched a half mile to the right of General Howard's, and the Marietta and Dallas road. By order of Colonel Buell, we selected a camp a mile in the rear for the Pontoon train, and then returned to camp by a short route. There has been some firing, but no general or special engagements, to-day. Sunday, June 26. — At twelve m. we marched to the new camp selected yesterda}'. We are now within cannon range of the enemy. We camped near the hospitals of Newton's and Wood's Division. I preached at the 2d Brigade, 2d Division, hospital. T stood by the roadside, and began declaiming on "Prepare to Meet Thy God." A storm was threatening, and as many of the wounded were laying about outdoors, there was some confusion caused by carrying them in. Worse than this, in the midst of my holding forth, two wagon trains met upon the road, and had no little jam- ming and crowding to pass each other. One teamster, think- ing to shine above his fellows, had hung tinkling bells about his mules. He jingled several heads out of my discourse, but what the congregation lost in preaching, they gained in the prettv music of the bells, and the ejaculations of the teamsters. * Monday, June 27. — It was early rumored that there was to be a grand charge on the rebel works, on Kenesaw Mountain, at eight a. m. This filled m'^ with misgivings, for I not only feared a repulse, but a coiuUer-charge, in the confusion which must ensue. Our train was close enough to be captured in such an event. Taking as good a position as possible, I waited to see or hear the charge. In the early morning there was considerable cannonading and musketry, preliminary to the grand charge that took place at nine o'clock. Our loss was about 1,800 men ; among them was ;{:{0 CHAPLAIN EIGHT'S HISTOKY OF THE the gallant General Harker, who tVll mortally wounded. We were repulsed, and there was nothing gained by this great sacrifice. It was very disheartening to our troops. The impression now is that we cannot take their works bv storm. In company with Dr. lioltzman and Sergeant Farmer, I rode to Ackworth, ten miles. We turned to the right a mile in the rear of our camp, and passed between Lost and Pine Mountains. There w^ere no troops on the road, but there were straggling Yankees all the w^ay. Here were two or three in a house, talking to the people. Here is another washing himself in a creek. Here are two running a mill. Wandering about the fields might be seen the inevitable mule drivers, hunting' cane and green apples. Both are scarce. We stopped a few moments at Widow Hull's. This good woman is poor in spirit. Her eldest son — aged seventeen — went off a few^ wrecks ago, with the Georgia militia. He thought that the task of driving off the Yankees would be short. Then he could return, like a true patriot, to the parental root. But the tide of war swept by, destroying his mother's farm, and bearing him away. Wliere he will go and what will be his destiny, none can tell. May God pity all such youths. Speaking of Dr. Holtzman, I remember very well the morning when he joined the Regiment, soon after the battle of Shiloh. 1 was the onh' man in it with whom he was acquainted. He had been laboring the preceding dav to reach the Regiment. He had sold his trunk, and sacrificed a can of peaches sent me by my sister, Mrs. Mar}' Legg. He had drawn a horse from a Qiiartermaster and came with two carpet bags. He called at several headquarters on his way, hunting for the "58th Indiana \"olunteers." It was nearly night when he reached General Buell's, and, with a d Miiocratic frankness, in keeping with one fresh from the people, asked for the privilege of staving all night I The astonished and courteous Adjutant, Colonel Fry, forgetting hiinsrlf, asked: "Who the devil are vou?" "I think," FIFTY-EIGHTH INDIANA KEdlMKNT. .'{.'M added General Buell, "that you had better report to your command, sir, iuiiucdiatch' ! " The new Surgeon did not stand on the order ot' his going, but went. He wandered about, stumbling over guard lines, until he came to a friend, who kindly gave him a bed under a wagon until morning. Such are the trials and tribulations of the innocent. Dr. Iloltzman knows more now. He ^vouId not think of asking a Major-General for the privilege of staving all night in his tent. General Harker, whose death has been noted, was an accomplished and gallant officer. In the morning of June 27th, he led his Brigade in the deadly charge on Kenesaw. When in about thirty vards of the enemy's works, there was a slight wavering in our lines. He turned to Lieutenant Zack Jones, of his staff, and gave command for the bugler to sound "Forward I " When Lieutenant Jones turned his head, Harker had fallen, pierced through the arm and into the chest. After much labor he was borne from the field. After leaving some messages he expired. A neat coffin was made by our Regimental mechanics, and his bodv was embalmed as well as it could be here, and the remains sent to his friends. He was a very brave man and was always at his post. Thursday, June 30. — Our people seem to be pretty- well satisfied with assaulting the enemy's works. There was heavy cannonading yesterday. Late in the afternoon our guns made the dust rise in clouds from about the summit of Kenesaw. The popping of guns did not abate at nightfall. I must have heard five hundred reports of cannon, while we were at meeting in the evening. I was awakened at two this morning by the loudest roar of musketrv that I had heard during this campaign. Orders were issued for har- nessing the mules, and a detail was made of Pioneers to pre- cede the train in case of a march. But the clatter ceased soon. I iiave not learned the particulars. Lieutenant Williams, of Colonel Buell's stafT, returned this evening from Chattanooga, whither he went to escort 832 CHAPLAIN HIGHT'S HISTORY OF THE the body of Colonel Bartleston, of the looth Illinois Volun- teers, who was another gallant officer killed in the charge on Kenesaw. At Shiloh he lost his left arm. At Chicka- mauga he was captured. He returned recently to his Regi- ment from Libbv Prison. When killed, he was Division Officer of the Da}', and was in advance of the skirmish line, on his horse. He fell, pierced by the ball of a sharpshooter. At two p. m. this morning a very strange and interesting occurrence happened in camp. Corporal Vincent McPaul, of Company D, dreamed that we were encamped under some great shelving rocks. He thought they were about to fall on the camp of Compan}' D. He began a most hideous yelling, that awoke everyone in camp. Men who had slept undisturbed in the roar of battle, were aroused. He jumped on Sergeants Benjamin Laswell and Barrett and made strong efforts to save them, and then bounded into "I" street, before he was secured and awakened. B}^ this time, everybody was awake. The news spreading from one to another, there was a great burst of mirthfulness. Loud laughter rang on the still night, until the voice of Major Downey commanded silence. McPaul has been troubled with such dreams since he was wounded at the battle of Chickamauga. Saturday, July 2. — A grand movement began to-day, involving, perhaps, the entire separation of McPherson's and Thomas' armies. The former began moving to the right, a part of his forces. General Thomas says that he can defeat Johnson's army. After McPherson and Scho- field go, Johnson may attack Thomas in front. If he does, he will be repulsed. He may move on our flanks. Defeat must even then befall him. There is no hope for the rebels but in flight. Our present camp had been constructed in almost any style. This afternoon orders were issued to straighten up the tents and police the quarters. "We are going to move," said the men. "W^henever they begin to tix up camp, we are sure to move." This is a common remark amongst the soldiers on such occasions. FIFTY-EIGHTH INDIANA REGIMENT. 3:5:5 Sunday, July 3. — The dav dawned on us in genuine Julv style. Near our camp the Army of the Tennessee was still rolling by in a continual stream. Rumors began to prevail that the enemy was gone, which proved to be true. They could not endure flanking. We soon received orders to march at eleven a. m. I improve the morning hours by preaching a sermon. Most of the men were engaged and could not attend. But a respectable congregation assembled. I felt (as is usual with me in camp) libert}^ in preaching the gospel. I felt satisfied all day because I had preached. When an3'thing prevents our usual meetings on the Sabbath day, I am tormented by many misgivings. The march to Marietta was greatly retarded b}^ the long trains crowding in that direction. We passed an intricate labyrinth of field works, constructed by our army. Some of them were strong, and some mere shadows of protection. They were made as our men gained the ground. Our troops had left them and gone forward. But sad memorials were left behind in the graves of our gallant dead. Great was the slauirhter of the brave in the battle of Kenesaw. They are usually interred together, fifty or more in a spot. The killed upon the field sleep amongst the works. And then wherever a hospital remains for a day or two there is a grave yard. Each man is laid away as decently as time and circumstances will permit. Tiie blanket which warmed him when living is wrapped about the soldier's lifeless lorm. The sunburnt survivors place some boards, or sticks, to pro- tect him from rude contact with the earth. The soil is gently laid upon the bosom of the dead, while a few silent tears steal down the rough cheeks of some long-tried comrades. A board — a mere fragment of a cracker or ammunition box — is placed at his head, telling the name, Compan}^ I^^S^" ment, and day of death. The Chaplain offers up prayers to God for the far-off' household, where the anguish of the sad death will soon intrude itself, and for those who stand about the newly made grave. There was some ingenious carving on some of these headboards. In the lontj hours of our H'U CHAPLAIX HIGHT'S HISTORY OF THi: patient waiting before the Kenesaw, men had found time to carve most handsome!}', not only the name, but also striking devices. These memorials are onh' a little shorter lived than those of stone, erected at home. We passed along the lines until we came to the spot where the grand charge of the 27th ult. had been made. Here a sight, such as I had never beheld, presented itself to my view. I had stood upon many battletields, but never had I seen one where the missiles of death had played such havoc amongst the timber. It was where General J. C. Davis' Division fought. Our works approached within nineteen steps of those of the rebels. The trees were as thick with bul- let marks as flies upon a sugar barrel. A little chestnut, five inches in diameter, was chopped to shreds. A large chest- nut tree, with the help of one solid shot, had been cut down b}^ bullets. The arms of the ugly abatis — formed bv thrust- ing green sticks an inch and a half in diameter, and two yards long, with sharpened points, at right angles, and at a distance of three inches apart, through thirty-foot green logs about five to ten inches in diameter — were shot into brooms. One would serve to sweep a tent. In the logs, designed to protect the rebel heads, the bullet marks were seen by thou- sands. The headboards of some poor fellows who had fallen between the works, and had been buried under a flag of truce, were shivered by the balls. The work of the rebels here is a lunette, crowning the summit of a hill. It is very solid, and was evidently made before the Yankees came. In front it is well protected by a strong abatis, described above. In tiie rear there is an open way, dug for the protection of the combatants passing in and out. There are all kinds of protections, such as ingenuity or fear prescribed. Still farther in the rear there are other lines of works, made since the great charge. "A deep tangled wild wood" hid the rebels from our men. But the deadly charge had been determined. Those who were fated to lead the forlorn hope, ate their morning meal as men ;\yv wont to do in the FIFTY-P:IGHTH INDIAXA KEGIMENT. 385 house of death. The trains are sent to the rear. The charging Divisions are massed. At nine a. m. our skirmish line advances, driving that of the rebels before. Behind it comes the solid lines of battle, with guns uncapped and bay- onets lixed. Down the hill, on which stood the supporting lines, and bravely np the next, where death stood ready to welcome them, rolled the wave of battle. Fast and thick upon the hillside fell the dead and wounded. Harker, swinging high his hat in air, and calling to his men to follow, fell, mortallv wounded, from his gallant steed. Some fal- tered, but the bravest pressed on. The lines were lost in the woods. The abatis checked the advance. The well protected rebels stood bravely at their works. But the race of heroes is not extinct. The banner of beauty and of glory is planted on the enem^^'s works. A moment more, and the tide of battle would have swept over the rebel lunette, and rolled through their lines, like the waters of the Mississippi through a crevasse. But there is a point where humanity can do no more. God has set bounds to man's endurance. In His providence. He said this day to our battle ocean : "Thus far shalt thou go, and here shall thv proud waves be stayed." The loyal wave, having lashed its fury on the devoted hill, and left its high water mark of blood, recedes, but not within its former bounds. Ground is gained, and bravely held. By filling pork barrels and cracker boxes with dirt and stone, and, crowding them before the sappers and miners, a still nearer approach is made. Already a mine had been dug about fif- teen feet towards the rebels. Had the 3^ remained a little longer, they would have been blown up. I have learned the explanation of the terrible firing on the morning of June 30th. Some men in Davis' Division called out aloud, "Forward I Guide center! Double Quick! March!" The rebels, thinking the Yankees upon them, began firing turioush'. Our men, laboring under the same delusion in reference to the rebels, responded with much vigor. The firing passed along the line, the cannons .■{.'{6 CHAPLAIN HIGHT'S HISTOEY OF THE loudly roar, and a great noise was kept up for an hoiu\ Was there ever an^^thing more ridiculous? So completely were both parties convinced of their folly, that there was an almost an entire cessation of the firino- from that time to the evacu- ation. The fighting was done amongst the hills and woods. Georgia, thus far, is a land of barren oak hills, thinly popu- lated, and generally covered with the native forests. We found some little evidences of man's presence, as we drew near to Marietta. We soon entered the town, and rode along one of the main streets to the public square. In the suburbs, at a house where we stopped to get a drink at the well, there was a respectable looking, elderlv lady, neatly dressed, sitting in the door wa}-, with a a sad countenance. She was now reaping some of the fruits of rebellion. There were inhabitants in some of the other houses. We camped in the town, in the yard of an ex-governor of the State, but "his excellency" was not at home. A ver}^ foolish and abortive effort was made to prevent the men from tearing dowai the plank fence to make bunks of. They were permitted to tear down, with impunitv, the poor man's cabin and fences where we last encamped. "Yes, yes," said the judge, "circumstances alter cases. After supper I took a walk about Marietta. Tt is by tar the finest tow^n that I had seen in the State. The people never had committed the foll3% so common in the North, of felling the native forests. The vards are large, and shaded by trees ol native growth. Inhere are several long and beau- tiful streets, with shady sidewalks. The dwelling houses were not of the highest style of architecture, but large, airy, with large columns in front. There are a number of respectable churches in tlie \illag(.\ I noticed alr(\ui\' some of them are aj^jiroprialed h\ tiie med- ical department. This is right, in times of emergency. l>ut wlien tliese pass away, churches should be exclusively devoted to the worship of God. There is a large number of empty store rooms, which will be a great convenience to our lolks. Fifty-eighth india^'a regimext. We spent but a single night in this delightful town, and under the ex-governor's line trees. The men, with com- mendable zeal, fixed up snug quarters, and busy brooms this morning freshened the green carpet. "We are going to move," said the soldiers. And so we did. About the mid- dle of the afternoon, we moved two miles, and camped near the railroad. I paid a short visit to the militarv college referred to in a preceding page. From Pine Mountain, it looked like a magniticent building, but when vou come nearer you Hnd it quite a tame aftair. The building itself is three stories high, but is not constructed after any of the orders of architecture that I ever heard of. The chapel, halls and rooms are all emptv, save a few benches, and an air of desola- tion pervades the estab- lishment. By climbing to the root", I had an enlarijed siglit of the country. To the rear, I could see the Allatoona and Kenesaw mountains. Pine and Lost moun- ains, and all the inter- vening countr}', were also in view. In front, a vast panorama of liills and wt)()d.-; spread before my eyes. On the lel't, an immense dust, and the smoke rising from the occasional discharge of a cannon, told of the whereabouts of GILBERT ARMSTRONG."-* Sergeant Company E. * Was mustered in with tiie Regiment at Camp Gibson, and was with the Regiment until the battle of" Chickamauga, when he was severely wounded. After the completion of his three years' term of service, he returned to his former home in Dubois county. His death occurred several rears after. The gun shown in the cut is the Henry rifle, presented to him by some of his friends in the Re CHAPLATX HIGHT'S HTSTOIJY OF THE The Pontoniers were hurried down to lay the bridge It was a matter of great importance to have the bridge down and troops over to support General Wood, as the rebels were massing troops against him. Their movements could be seen from Signal Hill, just in our rear, and it was a critical situation that confronted us. As the 58th came down to the river bank, to begin their work, General Wood was standing on the opposite bank greath^ excited. He said that bridge must be completed and troops must be crossing over to his assistance within an hour to save his division from disaster. It did not need much urging to get our men to work, as they could all realize the necessity of haste. Never did a pontoon bridge take shape as fast as the one put down across the Chattahochee that afternoon. Men worked as if it was a matter of life and death — as, possibly, it was — and before the expiration of an hour the hnal lashing was made, the bridge was completed and securely anchored. As soon as the last plank was laid the head of the column of General Palmer's Corps was at the approach ready to begin crossing. Then began a steadv stream of troops — infantry and artil- lery — of the 14th and 20th Corps, which continued for liours after night, and the movement was none too soon. A large force of rebels had been collected on the opposite side, and thev opened up a sharp fight, soon after the crossing of the first of our troops. But the rebels' attack had been delayed too long ; our men were ready for them and held their position. Monday, July 18. — I rode over the Chattahoochee river and a mile or two beyond. Our army is advancing on the left of Atlanta. On this side of the river we have cavalry. On the otlier there are the 20th, 14th, 4th and 23d Corps, in the order named. It is said that General McPherson is still further on the left. The country, as far as I went, is a succession of abrupt hills, heavily timbered. But little can be seen, except from the hill tops, and then, you only see more liills and more woods. From the mountain near our camp can be seen Lost Mountain, Pine Mountain, Kenesaw FIFTY-EIGHTH INDIANA REGIMENT. ;U:{ Mountains, Allatoona Mountains, Stone Mountain, and a number of others, whose names I have never learned. We can see where Marietta is, and the steeples of Atlanta are verv plain to the naked eye. I noticed large clouds of dust rising in the direction of Stone Mountain. I could see the rebel and Union camp smoke. Down the river one of our guns was throwing an occasional shell over the river. The Chattahoochee river is about four hundred feet wide. In most places in these parts it can be waded. The bottom is very rougli and rockv. It is wider, but not so deep, as the Oostanaula or Etowah. The current is swift and the water is ever yellow, owing to the sandy and yielding nature ol the soil. At this season of the j^ear the banks are from six to fifteen feet high. There are level bottoms along the stream, but they are narrow. The knobs crowd close to the river. There is nothing attractive about the Chattahoochee. It is not navigable for boats. Man}^ of our pontoons were injured at Phillip's and Power's ferries, b}' the sharp rocks in the river. Any number of mills might be erected, for the* water has considerable tail. But what is there to grind? There was a paper mill on Soap Creek, which empties into the Chattahoochee, at Phillip's Ferr}-. I can easily account for the dirty color of the paper on which the rebels print the weekly news, when I see their muddy streams. But there is water, clear and good, in these hills. Near our camp there are several springs of as fine water as any man ever drank. In the afternoon of the 19th I rode up on the mountain, where I could see great clouds of dust that were rising from Stone Mountain to Atlanta, and to the left of the mountain. This dust is caused either by the movement of our troops or the rebels. If it is our men there they are flanking Atlanta, and will cut the Augusta railroad. If it is the rebels, they are evacuatino- Atlanta. In either case the result must be favorable to our armies. It is rumored to-day (the 20th) that our forces now occupy Decatur, five miles from Atlanta, on the Augusta 344 CHAPLAIN HIGHT'S HISTORY OF THE railroad ; that General Rousseau, with a few thousand cav- ahy, has arrived on the West Point railroad, be3'ond Atlanta, and that McCook's Brigade, of Davis' Division, was engaged in a severe tight yesterday and came oft' second best, loosing heavily in killed, wounded and captured. To-day, a permanent wagon bridge was linished across the river and the last pontoon was taken up at Pace's Ferrv. A new switch and water tank, a bakery, the general iield hospital, of the Army of the Cumberland, a depot of sup- plies, etc., are now located at Vinings, which is the naine of the railroad station near here. We have additional rumors of the great battle of vester- day. The rebels are said to have made some desperate a""saults on the 4th, 14th and 20th Corps, and have been repulsed with great slaughter. Emptv ammunition w^agons are coming back to-dav. A lew ambulances loaded with wounded are cominir in. General Johnson has been removed tVom the command of the rebel army. I suppose the same foolish notions prevail amongst the Southern people -as amongst the Northern. Johnson has done all man could do. He has displayed great ability and courage, but then, people who have never been in the army, sometimes think that there is some kind of a magic way of wading through thick and thin, without regard to consequences ; and so there is, but such strategy always leads to defeat. Had General Johnson thrown his army continually against Sherman it would long since have been annihilated. He has made every resistance possible. If iiis successor. General Hood, acts as public opinion will demand, then in a few davs his armv will be slaimhtered and Atlanta will be ours. We will soon learn whether he is a fool or not. If the reports from yesterday's fighting be true, I am impressed with the idea that he is attempting the dash, such as is demandc-d b\' public sentiment, and is pvo- ductive of public ruin. * Friday, July 22. — About ten a. m. orders came to go to a ferrv, about ten miles below ; at twelve m. the march began. FIFTY-EKJHTH INDIANA l{E(iniEXT. -.Wy Wo ifot off tlic road twice by takiiiij roads towards the river. We had no guide, and none of us had been this way before, and, besides, there was considerable whisk}^ "aboard," as the phrase is. The whisky intended to be issued to the men in rations, was freeh' used by a tew of the men and otli- cers, resuhing in several drunks. I was on ahead, in com- pany with Lieutenant-Colonel Moore and staff. By dark we reached a camp about a mile be3^ond a nameless cross-roads. I suppose we were on the Sandtown road. Unfortunately, headquarters wagon, containing our baggage, had taken off a by-way and went, none knew where ; no, not even those with it. About eleven o'clock the headquarters wagon arrived, but as we were under orders to march at one o'clock in tlie morning, it was considered improper to waste any more time in putting up a tent, so I unrolled my blankets on the rails and lay down to sleep. By this time Colonel Buell arrived upon the scene of action. Numerous had been his adventures, with his two orderlies, traveling this gloomy night amid the Georgia hills and woods. He lost his way and wandered on, he knew not where. He was just in that state of mind when lie reached his command to do something desperate. Some good influence ''On gracious errands bent," inilamed him against the whisky. He sent a Sergeant and squad of men with orders to knock out tlie head ol the whisk}^ barrel, as the women used to do in Indiana, in the days of the temperance agitation. The vile poison gurgled and splattered upon the soil, while the Georgia sand drank greedily, as an old toper. But some equally ardent team- sters, though it was midnight, crowded about with tin cups, sharing the whisky with the dirt. Some Judas, no doubt, asked in his heart, "Why was not this sold, and the money given to the poor?" The Colonel declares that no more whisky shall be brought to this Regiment. Good for the Colonel, 34.0 CHArLAIN MIGHT'S HISTORY OF THE I road in the papers tliat during the present summer whiskv is to be a part of the rations. Ah-eady many of the details ot the campaign have failed on account of wiiisky. General Sturgis, with 9,000 well disciplined troops — infantry, artillery and cavalry — is deleated at Tishomingo Creek by half that number of cavalry. Cause: Whisky. I am not posted about the amount of injury in the East by whisky, but there have been blunders which it is hardly presumable sober men would commit. Saturday, June 23. — At one a. m. the reveille brought our brief slumbers to an end. Some had not yet fallen asleep. The morning presented quite a contrast to the gloomy evening. The moon shone ; the clouds were gone ; the stars are out in their glorv. We move rapidly along the road three or four miles, when orders were given to halt. Here we rested until daylight, when we found we were near the Chattahoochee river, opposite Sandtown. At da3'break the boats were put together, ready to lay a bridge. Soon after, the cavalr}^ of General Stoneman came straggling along on foot, like so many colts going to water. The officers were without swords, but some of them instead carried revolvers in their hands. There were no other troops, except cavalry about. They were far from present- ing a bold appearance. They looked as if a Regiment of infantry on the other side could drive oft' the whole Division. It is far from me to detract from our cavalry, but it cannot b'j" denied that this arm of the service is not what it should be, in the matter of efticiency. Under a dashing ofticer^ oiu" cavalry often performs deeds of daring and brilliancy. We have many instances of such during this war, and T wish we had more of them. Tlie pontoons were taken a mile below tiie ferry, and a number of men were transferred to the southern bank betbre the enemy was aware of the design. Two soldiers, a woman and child, two horses and a mule were captured. B\' tills time, orders had been received, countermanding the order for crossin**-. Tlie men weri' transferred to the north- FIFTY-EIGHTH INDIANA IJEGDIEXT. Ml crn bank and the pontoons taken trom the water and phiced upon the wagons. By this time the news was extensively circidated that General McPherson had been killed yesterday. In connec- tion with this there was the most exaggerated reports of the repulse of the Arm}- of the Tennessee, with great loss. The moving of the pontoon and some of the cavalry to the rear, seemed to conlirm the disastrous tale. They, who on yes- day, were cheering over the reported capture of Atlanta, now bewailed over an equally false tale of disaster. We did not have Atlanta, nor is McPherson 's army defeated. After leaving the river, we were stopped two miles back, lor dinner. This was very acceptable to man and beast. Many of the men had eateji neither supper nor breaklast. The mules had not been fed this morning, and some had not been watered for twenty-four hours. We continued our march about eijrht miles. Here, at dusk, we met the McPherson pontoon train, under the same orders as our- selves — "lay the pontoons at Howell's Ferry, near the rail- road." Now this ferry is eight miles below the railroad. It was therefore inferred that DeFour's Ferry, at the rail- road was meant. Both trains went into camp, designing to go to the railroad bridge in the morning. Sunday, July 24. — At two a. m. we were up. But the yesterday morning's folly, of hurrying off the battalion without eating, was not repeated. After getting on the wrong road — as usual — we reached the river soon after day. We soon had two bridires over the river, and the Army of the Tennessee Pontoniers had one. Monday, July 25. — I am now qviite sick, but, liaving botii green corn and blackberries, I expect to .^oon recover. It is no credit to a man to be sick in the army. In the even- ing we held a meeting of ovn* Christian Association. We had neglected to meet regularly, as we had lost our consti- tution, and had to send for another copN-. The following officers were elected for the quarter commencing July i , 1864 : Private Patterson W . Wallace, Moderator ; First Scr- :U8 CHAPLAIN HIGHT'S HISTORY OF THE geant P. N. Spain, Clerk ; First Sergeant E. Keeler, Ser- geant A. Gudgel, Sergeant J. W. Emmerson, Executive Committee. A number joined the Association. Tuesday, July 26. — The Pontoon train ot^the Army of the Tennessee moved tour miles down the river, to Turner's Ferry, and crossed the cavalry over to the south side. General Stoneman started, with 7,000 mounted men, some days since, on a raid. The movement of the Pontoon train has some connection with Stoneman. Some weeks since, General Grant's campaign terminated, with the failure to capture Petersburg. Though unsuccess- ful, so tar as the great object of the campaign is concerned — the capture of Richmond — ^'Ct it has not been a failure. The enemy have hurled themselves in vain against him. They have used everv strategy ; and, when thev could do nothing else, they have talked contemptuous! v about him. He hangs about the gates of doomed Richmond. For some time he has been collecting his energies and laying new plans. He will soon make a new campaign, which can not be conducted more bravely, but, I hope, ^^'ill result more suc- cessfully, than the last. General Sherman is still mo\'ing Ibrward, with success, against Atlanta. We still remain in camp near DaFour's Ferry, on the Chattahoochee. My sickness still continues. All the time I have been able to walk to my meals, however, though I eat but little. Soldiers are seldom bedfast until near death. I have taken blue mass, calomel, opium, sugar of lead, cas- tor oil, (juinine, whisky, wine, and the rest of it. ()i")ium made me sleep and the whisky stimulated. I could observe no other results. Our camp is exceedingly pleasant. Frequent rains have cooled the air. We are in a splendid pine grove. There is usually a jileasant breeze stirring along the Chat- tahoochee. The bombardment of Atlanta makes music for our ears. The camj-) rejoices in l)lackberries and green corn. During the last week there came into our camp from the North, one Abe West fall, formerly a conductor on fifty-j:ighth Indiana kegiment. ;un the E. & C. railroad. Abe is young and healthy, and full of gas. He camped with Captain \^oorhees, an old acquaint- ance. The boys determined to play a prank on him, espec- ially as he seemed to have no business in the army, and talked insultingly about the soldiers' families. So, one evening, while quietly walking beyond Peach Tree Creek, in compan}^ with Captain \^oorhees, the conversation turned on the subject of guerillas. He seemed to dread them much. He labored under the impression that deserted houses and barns were full of them. He seemed to think that a soldier was liable to be shot at an}' time by them. Suddenh', from the brush, came a voice, commanding "Halt !" "Halt ! " repeated the voice, and a pistol snapped. It was enough. Westfall wheeled and fled like a chased stag in the forest. Bang ! went a pistol. Voorhees did all he could to keep up, while the "guerrillas" gave pursuit. Westfairs desires ran ahead of his legs and down he came to the earth. "Oh ! oh I oh I " came in most pitiful accents iVom his lips — ave, from his inmost soul — as he went down. Bounding up again, he fairly flew towards camp, while the crack of a pistol told of the coming of the "bloody gueril- las." When he reached Peach Tree Creek, where a number of our men were bathing, he ran into the bushes and fell down, exhausted. A moment after. Captain Voorhees came up and called him out. In attempting to walk a log over tlie creek he lell into the stream. From this, he was res- cued bv a soldier. Just on this side of the creek, and near camp, there are some breastworks. Westfall, when he reached these, panting, said, "Let — us — hide — here I " and down he sat. But no sooner had he reached the ground than he jumped up again, "O, Jake," he cried, "lets go farther, we are not far enough yet." So on they came, Westfall panting and almost dead, while Voorhees was ready to burst with laughter. When the Captain's quarters were reached W^estfall threw his hands about a little pine tree and began to vomit like a sea-sick mariner. He sank exhausted on a cot, while Cap- S50 CHAPLAIN MIGHT'S HISTOllY OF THE tain \'o()rhees ran over to the doctor's for some whisky, to keep the man from dying. As soon as Westfall recovered and realized his safety, he began to recount his adventure, "The balls whizzed b\' me,'' he said, when, as a matter of fact, the pistols were loaded with paper wads. The boys got a good joke on Henry Hill, of Company C. He was beyond the creek, but not in the secret. Seeing the race, and hearing the tiring, he ran, too, full tilt, into Peach Tree creek, and over to camp. Next morning Abe Westfall left early for the North. Bvit he was neither a wiser nor a sadder man. He never dreamed of the guerilla affair being a farce. He verily believed that they were after him, and that he was the hero of a tragic story, to be repeated to wondering admirers when he reached home. During my sickness, our meetings went on just as well as if I had been able to attend them. Private P. W. Wallace preached a time or two. Several prayer meetings were held. We have a number of good men in the 58th Regi- ment. On Saturday afternoon our baggage came up from Chat- tanooga. There were several tents, a numl^er of ilies, the desks, valises, etc. Qiiartermaster Sergeant A. M. Bryant, and a niunl^er of men, came up with it. CHAPTER XXIII. On Furlough — A Chapter Pertaining to Personal Matters — Delays and Discomforts of Travel BY Rail — At Chattanooga — At Nashville — x\t Louisville — At Home — How the Time was Spent — What I Saw and Heard — Ho\\' I Got Back to MY Regiment. WITH deep regret on Sunda}^ July 31st, I applied for a leave of absence. This was granted on August 2d, and was received on the 6th. I prefer going home well. It is something of a disgrace to be sick in the army. The following is a copy of my request tor leave of absence, with the surgeon's certificate annexed : Headquarters 5STH Indiana Regiment, } DeFour's Ferry, Ga., July 31, 1864. \ Brigadier-General Whipple, A. A. G. and Chief of Staff". Sir: I would respectfuUj' ask for a leave of absence, to visit my home in Indiana, for reasons set forth in the appended surgeon's certificate. I am respectfully your obedient servant. JOHN J. HIGHT, Chaplain 5Sth Ind. Vol. I iiercby certify that I have carefully examined the said officer, ]. J. Ilight, Chaplain ^Sth Indiana, who has been under my care for the last (4) four weeks and find him sutTering from diarrhtva and general debilit}', and, in my opinion, a change of diet and climate, is, in a great measure, essential to his recovery. I would, therefore, respectfully recommend that a leave of (20) twenty days be granted him. I ani respectfully your obedient servant, SAMUEL E. HOLTZMAN, Surgeon ^Sth Ind. ^'ol. 352 CHAPLAIN HIGHT'S HISTOKY OF THE Sunday, August 7. — I rose at daV. and made mv prepa- rations for goin7 If slavery be dead, as many say, its spirit still lives. The assembly was small, considering the fame of the orator, and the excitement of his theme. Louisville is the same traitor- ous Sodom it was when, in 1862, I, with many other sol- diers, marched more than 200 miles to defend it, and received not a single welcome, but made our beds on streets and out lots. At length a slight demonstration of applause ran through the crowd. A soldier near me rose and said, "Yes, there's Maynard, certain." I had never seen Mr. Maynard before, but I recognized an unmistakable East Tennesseean in the person on the stand. His form was tall and slender. His hair was long and lav behind his ears. He had a black mustache, and a little patch of hair on his chin. His head hung, like one catching ideas, at an angle of lort3'-five degrees. There was a pleasant expression on his counte- nance. You would not feel abashed to approach him. Such were my impressions of Mr. Maynard, as he stood for a moment, and then was seated amonu" the mai^nates on the stand. A small man, with a sorry looking coat, seemingly of bed ticking, rose and moved that somebody take the chair, and the motion prevailed. The gentleman came forward, hold- ing a paper in his hand, and announced the fall of Atlanta. The dull crowd seemed at once inspired with lite. Even phlegmatic conservatives felt a little of the glow of patriot- ism. Caps and hats were swung high in the air ; cheer after cheer rose wildly from the multitude, and still the house ran^; again, and yet again. When order at length was restored, the president read the telegram, and again there were cheers. Mr. Maynard was now introduced, and in a distinct voice, and a manner that promised rich entertainment, he announced that we were in a momentous crisis. He then proceeded to discuss the various phases of National affairs. His manner was usually good. Sometimes he was a little tedious in read- ing some lengthy question. He has a peculiar and emphatic habit of dashing his white handkerchief on the table, at the .'):)» CHAPLAIN HIGHT'S HISTORY OF THE end of an emphatic sentence. He has a solemnity of tone. He is logical, and gives us some fine thoughts. Patriotism breathes through every sentence. Traitors and peace men receive many hard hits. A glowing tribute is paid to the gallant men who have died for their country, and the pros- pects of the nation are pictured in glowing words. The speaker was often applauded, but many of the audi- ence felt but little interest in the speaking. At almost ever}' thrust at slavery, some could stand no more, but would leave. I was much benefitted and strengthened. The world moves. There is free speech in Louisville. Freedom will triumph. I left Louisville September 3d and arrived at Nashville without noting anything of special incident. At the Sewanee House I saw little indication of an improvement in the fare, from what it was when I was there before. It is very far from being a paradise. On account of the break in the railroad I am compelled to remain here several days, and I will spend the time in visiting old friends and places of interest. I could enjoy this much better, if it were not for the fact that I am paving four dollars per day at the hotel, and my pocket book is not very flush. Among tlie places visited was hospital No. 9. Here I found Wesley Webster, of Company C, sick. He has been here for a long time. I also met S. V. Hay, of Compan}' A. He left the Regiment, wounded, at the battle of Stone River. T also saw Samuel Ledgerwood, of Company E, now in the Veterans' Reserve Corps. He is acting as orderl}^ at this hospital. Wheeler, formerly of Company- C, is here also, in the Veterans' Reserve Corps. He is a guard. One night I went to the capital, to hear speeches from L. C. Houck and others. These Tennesseeans are very earn- est in defending the Administration, opposing slavery, and advocating the re-election of Mr. Lincoln. Many of them having suffered great wrongs, are bitter against rebels. They are for "war to the knife, and knife to the hilt." FIFTY-EIGHTH INDIANA REGIMENT. 359 They are attempting to get Tennessee back into the Union without slavery. May they succeed. I also called on Lieutenant Lee Yaryan, at his office, on Cherry street. He was formerly Adjutant of the 58th Indiana, and for a long time aid-de-camp on General Wood's staff; After a week's stay in the capital city of Tennessee, a chance was offered me to go on my way. I took passage on one of the military passenger trains for Chattanooga. A few miles out from Nashville we came to where Wheeler had destroyed the road. The ties had been burned with the rails on them. This effectually destroys both. Not less than ten miles were destroyed. The little garrison at Lavergne had kept him at bay and preserved a mile of the road. Farther on, at Smyrna, General Wheeler had attacked the block-house, with artillery. Three were killed and seven wounded of the little command of thirty men. But the block-house did not surrender. The garrison at Stewart's Creek acted less honorably — they surrendered. No raiding party can capture those block-houses if defended by brave men. Arriving in Chattanooga next morning I found there was no chance for a train to the front before next day, so there was nothing to do but wait. While waiting, I took occasion to visit, among other places, the new stone fort, which is in process of construction near the depot. It is called "Fort Buell," in honor of our Colonel. It seems to me that it is very foolish to be spending so much money and labor in building this fort, as it does not appear to be needed, with so many other forts about this place. In due time we got a train out of Chattanooga, and after a long, tedious journey we arrived in Atlanta. As I had never been in this city before, I was entirely ignorant of the whereabouts of my Regiment, or any other Regiment. "I didn't know nothing." So I remained in the cars until morning. With the earliest dawn of light I pushed out in search of knowledge. From the multitude of know-nothings nc>0 niAPLATX HTGHT'S HISTOEY OF THE I examined, I learned the direction to General Thomas' headquarters. Placing my baggage in charge of a guard, I started in that direction, and soon stood before the head- quarters, located in a magnificent colonade building. I was met by an orderly, who conducted me to the mounted orderlies. From them I learned that my Regiment had returned to their old quarters, at DeFour's Ferry. I regretted then that I had not known this last night, as our train stopped a long time about the bridge. I could just as well have gotten off. The query is, how am I to get to mv Regiment this morning. But breakfast must lirst be sought. A hotel has been opened in Atlanta. Thither I turned mv lootsteps, giving a negro a quarter to carry mv valise. The breakfast at the Trout house is a joke. We had many waiters, fresh from their Southern lords. These, in their anxiety to please their new Yankee masters, were flying about with the agilitv of squirrels. We had to take their atten- tions as the chief item in the entertain- ment. Besides this, we had the pleasure of dirty table linen, and the dutv of hold- ing our hats to keep each other from stealing them. To eat, there was beef- GEo. w. (;.\sA\v.\Y,* steak, bread, molasses, and coflee. Sergeant Cor^pany D. ^^-^j^ ^j^.^ ^j _^^ j ^^,,^^ ^_^^^^^ Satisficd. AftCr breakfast I took a more extensive walk about the city. Many of the houses in the northern part of the city were much torn by shot and shell. In no place have I seen such evidences of destruction. During the forenoon I came upon a train from mv Regi- ment, which had come in for forage and clothing. I placed my baggage in one of the wagons and borrowed a horse and * Was one of tlie original members of the .s^^tli, started in at Camp Gib- son and followed it through. He was promoted to Sergeant, and served as such until the Regiment was mustered out. Since the war he has been engaged principally as carpenter and contractor. A few years ago he removed to Tullahoma, Tennessee, where he is now living among scenes familiar in arm\' days. FIFTY-EIGHTH INMAXA EEGDIENT. .'Jlil rode to camp. The flies are exceedingly troublesome, and it is almost as difficult to ride as to walk. Just in the edge of the city I passed through the works of the enemy. There were forts on all the hills, connected by field works. These were well protected by abatis, chc- vaiix-dc-fn'sc, and palisades in iVont. But a short distance from these are our works, which are not so strong. On my way to camp I met a drove of seventeen hundred cattle, just from Chattanooga. Amongst the guards were three men of the 58th — George Davis, Catlett, and William Bennett. I soon came to the camp of the 58th, and was very cor- dially welcomed by my friends in the Regiment. It was like getting back home again. CHAPTER XXIV. Ax Expedition to Saxdtowx — Crossing Kilpatrick's Cavalry — A Raid to the Rear of Atlanta — Stirring up the Enemy — Following our Cavalry — A Critical Situation — Preparation for De- fence — The Rebels Do Not Come — March to JoNESBORO — Atlanta Evacuated — Campaign Ended — Back to Chattahoochee — Our Regimental Camp — Other Matters of Importance. DURING mv absence the Regiment participated in an important campaign, a short account of which should be noted here. A tew days after I left them the Pontoon train was ordered to move again to Sandtown, about ten miles down the river. This was their second journey over that road, as the reader will remember. The object of the move this time was to afford a crossing for General Kilpatrick's Brigade of cav- alry, the other time it was for the accommodation of General Stoneman's cavalry. There was a considerable difference in the push and energy of these two bodies of cavalry, as we shall presently see. It will be remembered that Stoneman's cavahy came and looked over on the other side of the river, but, for lack of courage, or for some other cause, they did not go over and take possession. So we had to take up our bridge and beat an inglorious retreat. With Kilpatrick it was ditlerent. vShorth' after davliglit one morning we arrived again at the river, ojiposite vSandtown. The few rebels on the other side immediately became impressed with the notion that their presence was not wanted, when they FIFTY-EIGHTH INDIANA REGIMENT. 363 heard the balls from ovir guns whistling about their ears. Within a very short time, we had a bridge down and Kilpat- rick's force began to cross. When thev were all over on the other side thev formed in column and immediately started in pursuit of the enemy. A sharp skirmish was encountered, a tew miles out, but it did not last lonij. The rebels gave way and Kilpatrick tbllowed fast after them. For two days our Regiment was encamped at the bridge on the south side of the river. We had not heard anything from Kilpatrick. We only knew that his mission was to make a raid ai^ound the rear of Atlanta, and destroy the rail- road and stir up the rebels in everv wav possible. And we knew that whenever Kilpatrick started out to stir up the rebels he geperally succeeded in his undertaking. So we were not very much surprised when, one evening about sun- down, the head of the cavalry column was seen coming back in considerable of a hurry. The whole Brigade was soon in our camp, and we soon learned that a much larger force of rebels was not far behind. It seems that Kilpatrick had made a success of his enterprise, but in doing so had attracted a strong force of rebel cavahy, who had followed him on his retreat. So we were now all confronted with a superior force of the enemy, and our position was not the most fortunate. Here we were, one Regiment of infantry and a Brigade of cavalry against about all the available cav- alry- in the rebel arm v. Then we were on their side of the river, with only a single pontoon bridge on which to cross in case of retreat. In this condition there was only one thing to do — tliat w as to make such preparations that retreat would not be neces- sary. This we at once set about doing. A line of battle was formed in the shape of a semi-circle, each Hank resting on the river, the 58th Regiment of infantry being in the center of the line. There were a number of log houses in the little village, known as Sandtown. These were torn down and the logs utilized in building rifle pits. The men worked like beavers in constructing these works of ;}(i4 CHAPLAIN MIGHT'S HISTORY OF THE defense, and it was not long until we were in shape to have giveji the rebels a warm reception. A strong skirmish line was kept well out to the front, with a stronger force in reserve. For some reason the enemv did not press our retreating cavalrv, but contented themselves with skirmish- ing with our advanced lines. This disposition of the rebels, and their delav, was a for- tunate thing for our little force at the river. If they had pressed their advantage, our men most certainly would have had a hard time in holding tiieir position. We waited and worked all night long, making all the noise we could, meanwhile, but the rebels come not. With the exception of one or two little brushes with our outline of skirmishers, there was no evidence that there was any rebel' force near. Soon after daylight a reconnoisance was made, developing the fact that the enemy had retired. Of course our men breathed easier after this was known. Weary with an all night watching, they betook themselves to rest and sleep. The Regiment remained here for several da3's after this, Ijut there was no further demonstration by the enemv. Our boys, being several miles from the main army, had access to the fruit, fresh meat, and other articles in which this vicin- ity abounded ; and, in consequence, were enjoving life. On the 25th of August orders came to march, and a short time before simdown the Regiment started, marching in a southerly direction. The roads were bad and tlie Pontoon train was long, so that there was slow progress at first. Some time after dark the Regiment went into camp, about eight miles from the starting place. The camping ground here was in a large, open field, and it was discovered that other troops were there ahead of oin- Regiment. These were found to be the Fourth Corps ; and tlie fiu'ther tact was ascertained that this was a movement of the largest part of Sherman's army around Atlanta, for the purpose of cutting otV the retreat of Hood trom that beleaom Atlanta to the Chattahoochee, during Sherman's flanking movement to Jonesboro. The ground of our camp is elevated, and overlooks the surrounding countr}^ We are shaded by a growth of oak, which makes it very pleasant. To the left of the Regimental camp, about one liundred yards, is the camp of our cattle guard. The}- have two or three huts, very much like those in the camp proper. In a pen, near bv, are our cattle, which have evidently seen bet- ter days, as they are becoming very bony. They are taken out to graze every day, but there is little lor them to eat. The butcher's rule is to kill the poorest, lest they die before the next issue day. A Sergeant — Dan Harrison — commands the cattle guard. To the right and rear of the Regimental camp are the Regimental teamsters. We have three ambulances and three wagons. There are the usual number of private horses. A shed has been made for the horses and mules, but it is too high to do much good when it rains. Sergeant Armstrong, the old sharpshooter, is the ranking man in this squad, and iua\- hv considered the commanding officer. An liundred vards in the rear of the teamsters is the Reg- imental commissary, presided over by Sergeant C. C. Mont- gomery. Here a moderate suppl}- of rations is sheltered and guarded. Fifty 3'ards in the rear of the commissary is the pontoon corral, embracing about an acre, inclosed by sheds of cedar branches. Here are the wagons and mules ol the train. There are about one hundred wagons and iive hundred nuiles. The wagons show signs of a long campaign, and the mules are very poor. A small supply of shelled corn or oats is all they get at this time. Near tiie corral, the drivers are living in some huts, called, from their arrangement, Scattertown. The public horses, near fift}- in numl)er, are kept aliout Scat- FIFTY-EIGHTH INDIANA REGIMENT. ^fi!) tertown. Near this, also, are stored the pontoon materials. The chess, balk, and boat frames, are nicely arranged in what we might call the boat yard. Tiie canvas, ropes, etc., are stored in houses. In the same neighborhood, the mechanics, under Lieuten- ant Wood, have built a row of shops, with a yard in the rear, and their quarters behind the 3'ard. At any hour of the day the carpenters, blacksmiths, wagon makers, harness makers, etc., mav be seen working at their respective trades. Their labors are performed with great cheerfulness. There is no bossing, nor is there a need of any. The work is light, and much easier than idleness. Much time is spent in making tables, stools, boxes, etc. A magnificent swing hangs from two giant pines in the mechanics' vard, and is free to all who wish to use it. Across the road is the Regimental bakery, which is run by Sergeant Armstrong and Privates Joseph Wilson and Benjamin Clayton. The greatest embarrassment connected with it is the want of flour. After paying our respects to the headquarters, on the hill, to the right of our Regimental camp, we are through. Col- onel Buell has for his staff. Lieutenant Williams, of the looth Illinois; Lieutenant Daniels, of the 17th Ohio; Captain Tovisev, and Lieutenants Jones and Torrence, of the 58th Indiana. In company with Dr. Iloltzman and Lieutenant Mason, I visited Atlanta, Monday, September 19th. There are still a good many citizens here, notwithstanding General Sherman's order of banishment. Some harsh criticisms are made by manv on account of Sherman's action in this matter, But, I think, imder the circumstances, the order was a wise one. It is true, there is not much humanity about it, but there is not much humanity about war measures of any kind. As soon as our army moves on, then these citizens should be allowed to return and make a living for themselves. Among the places visited was the city cemetery. In the ordinary condition of things, the cemetery- is not the most 370 CHAPLAIN HIGHT'S HISTORY OF THE cheerful spot one could rind when making" a pleasure ramble. But the condition of things around Atlanta was not in the ordinary line, and the cemetery was about as cheerful as the other places around the city. A part of the fence around the cemetery has been torn away, and some of the ornaments destroyed. There was abundant evidence that this was once a beautiful burying ground, but the ravages of war has affected the resting place of the dead, as well as the habita- tion of the living. In one place, I noticed a splendid gothic monument over a vault, which is now open and the coffins exposed. This is a sickening, loathsome sight. When I die, I want to be buried in the ground. I want no vandals to gaze on my dead face, nor do I wish to have my mummy hawked in the mar- kets of future generations. I prefer to return to mother dust. The works on the eastern side of the city resemble those on the northwestern, and are very close to the city. Near them are the fragments of many cars which were burned by the rebels. The ground about the cars is covered with the fragments of shells and other ammunition. This must have been loaded on the trains, or destroyed with some houses in the neighborhood. It is difficult for one from the populous North to realize that a city, no larger than Atlanta, could have been accounted of such importance. But when one calls to mind how thinly peopled this country is, he can appreciate that this was a great city to them. There are a few good churches, a few squares of solid business houses, and a number of foundries. The population before the war mayluive been nearly 4,000. It is said to have greatly increased during the war. Here many materials for the conflict were prepared, and many refugees from North Georgia and Tennessee found shelter. Many houses are being torn down, and the materials trans- ported to camp to shelter the troops. There can be no objection to this. It seems a pity to destroy the houses, but the men are better than the buildings. Our people have long been exposed, and must now liavc protection and rest. FIFTY-EICtHTH INDIANA REGIMENT. .'{71 For two years. Captain Cain has been trying- to resign. He tirst made the attempt during the pursuit of Bragg, in Kentuck}'. He has also sent up a number of applications for leave of absence, all of which have been returned disap- proved until now. But the long continued suit has at last been successful. To-day his offered resignation has been returned, "Accepted on account of expiration of term of service, and I'amilv affairs. " I have often spoken of Cap- tain Cain in these records. We all regret to part with him. He is one of the chief supports of the Christian sentiment in the Regiment. A good singer, gifted in prayer, and faith- ful in his attendance on the means of grace, we will greatly miss him from our little circle of Christians. The contem- plation of the loss of many of our leading Christian men, by the expiration of iheir terms of service this fall, increases our sadness in parting with the Captain, We can but feel desolate in parting with those who have long been our asso- ciates in camp and march, in storm and battlefield. T'he friendships of home life are tame, compared with the attach- ments of those who have stood together amid the battle's rage, who have been wet by the same storms, and endured hunger of the same sieges. Around our plain camp tables and cheerful blazing ffres, or on the long marches, our hearts become knit as those of David and Jonathan. Sunday, Sp:ptp:mber 25. — The Sabbath dawned most beautitully. At 9:30 a. m. our little chapel was crowded by an attentive congregation. A few citizens were present. There is no special difficulty in preaching before soldiers. At two p. m. we met and organized a Bible class. It went otT a little dry. Perhaps we will make it interesting in the future. The lesson to-day was Matthew, ist chapter. In the evening the congregation was large and attentive. There is a good, religious feeling in the Regiment. Monday, September 26. — This has been a beautiful autumnal da}^ The air is exceedingly bracing. The repair- ing and repai-nting of the train is going on rapidly. Man\' trains crowded with troops of the 4th Corps, passed to the H2 CHAPLAIN HIGHT'S HISTORY OF THE rear to-day and yesterday. There are many rumors and surmises. Some think the 4th Corps, and, perhaps some other troops, are going to Virginia, either by the way of the north, or through Bull's Gap. Some think the move- ments of this Corps are only to check a rebel raid, now said to be progressing around our left iiank. Of course, I have no means of knowing the exact truth. But, I am satisfied, that if a part of this army does not go to Richmond, it should. Now is the time to overturn this slave-holding empire. The rumors of the day are all encouraging. Gold has fallen. The rebels are badh^ defeated in the Shenandoah Valley. Our people are greatl}^ encouraged. Now if Rich- mond falls, and Lincoln is re-elected, the work will soon be accomplished. And what a work — the Union re-established and slavery destroyed. God hasten the day. May the days of our watching and waiting soon end in glorious triumph. The regular monthh' meeting of our Christian Association convened this evening, in the chapel. Moderator Wallace opened with prayer. He then encouraged the members to take part in the business. The constitution was read and a number came forward and enrolled their names. The tol- lowing officers were elected for the ensuing year : John A. Everett, Moderator ; Jacob Davis, Clerk ; Ebenezer Keeler, Andrew Gudgel, John Emmerson, Executive Committee. Captain Cain asked for a letter of dismission. He made a few very feeling remarks, in taking leave of us. We would never all see him again ; but we would not be forgotten by liim. He exhorted us to prepare for Heaven. A paper was then adopted by the Association, and in conclusion, an appropriate song was sung and the parting hand was given to our departing brother. He prayed with and for us. The benediction was then pronounced. The 1st Michigan Engineei's came from the rear, with a long train, and encamped near us. They have an endless supply of baggage. J FIFTY-EIGHTH INDIANA EEGIMEXT. 8711 Our camp is daily visited by women, children, and a few men. They are nearly all lean, lank, cadaverous people. Thev sell butter, butter milk, green beans, chickens, toma- toes, muscadine grapes, etc. They exchange these things for our rations. As we cannot buy for cash, we cannot pur- chase verv extensivelv. The people in these parts are pretty well starv^ed for the necessities of life. It is this that drives them to this trade. Some come in begging, and tiiey tell most pitiful tales. We cannot give them much, as we do not care to feed the women and children of men, who are lying in the bushes and attempting to cut the railroad which brings the food. Can anything be more ridiculous than for these women to come snubbing about our camp, while their lantern-jawed lords are h'ing in ambush to shoot us? Oh, that these people had known when they were well off. Manv of the countrv people call on Dr. Patten for medi- cine and medical attention. It is unsafe for him to be rid- ing about the countrv, hence he refuses all calls for visiting outside of camp. He gives out medicines, although his supply is small. All the native physicians have gone south. The rich and great have fled and left these poor women to the tender mercies of the detested Yankees. The men sent several da3's ago to Chattanooga, for mules, returned, to-day, without them. The}^ report that General Newton's Division is at Chattanooga. One Division from here passed on through that post. One Division of the 15th Corps has gone to Rome. There has been no connection between Nashville and Chattanooga for some days. Major Downey went to Marietta, Saturday, October ist, for the veterans of the loth Indiana, who have been assigned to our Regiment, but he did not get them. There is more red tape about the affair than can be unwound in one day. We have had frequent rains lately, and the Chattahoochee has risen rapidly during last night. Before daylight this morning, a large amount of drift was massed on the upper trestle bridge, across the river at this point, and the bridge was torn away, without leaving a vestige to tell where it ^74. CHAPLAIN HIGHT'S HISTORY OF THE once stood. Sweeping down the stream, it carried away the next trestle bridge bv the help of the accumulated drift. Next, a span of the great railroad bridge was carried away. It fell into the river with a great crash. Lieutenant Jones, at once, was sent to communicate the tidings to General Thomas' headquarters, at Atlanta. Thus, the rest of the Sabbath is to be broken, because the Chattahoochee must be bridged, and our Pontoniers must do the work. Early in the morning they were called out and began the work. The river being very much swollen, and very swift, and there being large quantities of drift, it was a difficult undertaking to lay a bridge. Twice the end s^^■unti: around before the two shores were connected. In the latter part of the day there was not so much drift, and bv the middle of the afternoon the bridge was completed. As soon as the way was open troops and wagons began to cross, going to the rear. A Brigade of the 20th Corps crossed last night on the trestle bridge just before it was swept away. General Garrard's cavalry, sixteen hundred strong, came from the lett of the army and camped near us, this afternoon. The 17th Indiana is in this command and several of the boys visited friends in our camp. There are many rumors afloat. Certain, it is, that our communications with Chattanooga are severed. The rebels are crossing the Chattahoochee and moving north, and there are rumors that some pf their forces are in middle Tennessee. Sound of cannonading was distinctly heard late this atter- noon, down the Chattahoochee, and it is evident that war is beginning again. During the month of September there has been almost an unbroken rest, by the two armies. Monday, Octohek 3. — One of the pontoons on this end, and two on the other, were on the ground this morning, caused by the river falling during the night. Alter a break- fast job, lasting until eight o'clock, the bridge was shortened to suit the present size of the river. General Garrard's forces crossed to the northern bank. A small wagon train was passed to the south side. General Kilpatrick's train of FIFTY-EIGHTH INDIANA RE(tIMENT. :{7:) two hundred wagons had come up from the iSandtown regions to cross here ; the bridge there had been washed away. The ist and 3d Divisions,, of the 4th Corps, then came up from Athmta and crossed over. The 2d Division had gone some days ago on the cars. Our Regiment laid a second bridge during the forenoon. The Tennessee Pontoniers put down one. The trains and troops continued to cross all night. Tuesday, October 4. — The repairing corps is removing a large drift, collected about the abutments of the old rail- road bridge. Here, recentlv, was a wagon bridge, and another is to be built. This corps is repairing the railroad bridge. The most of the armies of the Tennessee and the Ohio have been crossing to-da^'. The wagons are still rolling over as I write — eight p. m. Tlie 20th Corps remains at Atlanta. I have no detinite information of the movements of the rebels. Thev must be moving northward in force, or General Sherman would not be sending all his army in that direc- tion. Camp tales assign Longstreet, or Beauregard, to the command of the rebel army. After entrenching on the West Point railroad the}^ are said to have crossed the Chat- tahoochee in force, and are now moving for the AUatoona Mountains. Our people moved out from Marietta to the Kenesaw Mountain, this morning, and occupied the rebel works. There is a prospect of a battle in a few days. We hear more idle tales afloat, when our communications are cut, than we do genviine news when the papers come reg- ularly to camp. We now hear great tidings from Rich- mond, chiefly brought b}^ the "grape vine" line. These rumors are all encouraging ; showing at least that the army is in good spirits. Our arm}^ has been very much rested by their month's quiet. Nearly all the articles needed for the good of the soldiers have been procured. The men almost look like new men. Many of the gun carnages have been repaired .'{7(; CHAPLAIN RIGHT'S HISTORY OF THF. and repainted. The Army of the Tennessee have the best horses and mules. Those of the Cumberland and Ohio never will recover from the severe East Tennessee campaign. The men are full of life and in good spirits. We have plentv of rations for several days. But the forage is about exhausted. Something must be done immediately to open our communications. We have orders to get read\^ six hundred feet of our bridge, for marching. The Army of the Ohio is over, with all its transportation. The transportation of the Army of the Ten- nessee is not all over yet. The Army of the Tennessee pontoons are poor affairs. They now have dow"n but the fourth bridge of the campaign, and it is badly in need of repair. Mondav, the 3d inst., the veterans of the loth Indiana, 136 strong, joined our command. They are quartered on the left of our Regiment. They seem to be very good sol- diers. ■ The grand army is gone. One Brigade of the 20th Corps remains at this point as a garrison. The 58th Regiment is encamped on a hill w^hich commands the railroad bridge. Yet the brilliant genius in command of this post wants this hill evacuated. If the enemy had it, our other works on this side of the river would be completely enfiladed. The Colonel commandini^ — I have not seen him — must be a burn- ing and shining light, in the military galaxy. Rumor this evening (October 5th) places the rebel army at Dallas. Thev are rapidly advancing, occupying our old w'orks and fortilying. There is said to have been skirmish- ing at Big Shanty, and in the neighborhood of Lost Moun- tain, this morning. It is probable that Selma will be the new base for the rebel armv, and the railroad to Jacksonville the line of operations. This is a splendid mtnement lor them. May its splendor be dimmed in the lirst contest. This may come to-morrow, or next day. Thursday, October 6. — It has rained nearly all day. We seem to be in the midst of a rainy season. FIFTY-EIGHTH INDIANA PvEGDIENT. 377 The garrison here is putting up tieki works. These com- mand the approach to the bridge, when the enemy comes up the river. But no provision is being made to meet an enemy coming down. There are ah'ead}^ works which are suitable for this, but thev are not vet occupied. General Slocum has orders to be well on his guard, in reference to this point. There is a rumor that a strong force of rebels are within three miles of here, to-da}^. The enemv is said to have made a dash on our men at Allatoona to-day. Result unknown. The great railroad bridge is being slowh^ repaired. There is still another span to build. Six hundred feet of our pontoon bridging is loaded and on the other side of the river, ready to move at a moment's notice.. Friday, October 7. — An attack on this post is expected. Additional ammunition has been issued. New held works are being constructed. A barrel of whiskey was brought to-day iVom Marietta by the commissary. Some officers and men are drunk and ac'.- ing the fool. Sickness is on the increase. This is usually the case when the Regiment is lying in camp. There are several cases of scurvy and two of typhoid fever. The forage for the horses and mules in the entire army is out. We must now depend on grazing. The stock can live but a few days on this. Many have died of starvation, and many more must shortly die. The army is on short rations. No trains are running. No mail goes or comes. The timber, on the hill, to the left of our Regiment, has been cut down, to prevent it from sheltering an enemy, in case of an attack. Not having men enough to hold the line to Peach Tree Creek, our left would be greatly exposed. Ours is the onlv command in the armv not on short rations. Monday, October 10. — All has remained quiet to-day at DeFour's Ferrv. The enemv have not made their appear- fiin CHAPLAIN MIGHT'S HISTORY OF THE ance. Re-enforcements have been received by our people. There has been no passing or repassing, except some trains of raih"oacl iron, to the rear. Our commuications with the rear is still severed. Mails never come. The stock is with- out feed. The news with us, to-day, is that some days ago the rebels made several unsuccessful assaults on our works at Alla- toona Pass. They were repulsed, and retreated vmder cover of the night, leaving their dead and wounded on the tield. Their loss is said to have amounted to 2,000. We hear nothing of the movements of the troops who crossed our bridge a week ago. From the East we hear that a des- perate battle has been fought. The rebels were defeated. Thev evacuated Richmond. This came by signals from Resaca to Kenesaw, and was seen on the bulletin board at Atlanta. We do not know whether to believe all this or not, but we note it down as the sum of to-day's rumors. Speaking on this subject I am led to say that Sergeant Wm. Kendall, of Company H, now in charge of the pioneer tools, is our most famous grapevine operator. I must do him the justice to sav, that he is one of the best posted in reference to the current news, of the Regiment. He reads all the papers w^e get, and is always making inquiries amongst passing troops. But he is famous for giving circu- lation to a thousand false tales. No sooner is it known that a story came from Bill Kendall, than men begin to laugh at it as preposterous. lie is a prophet, also. He is now otier- ing to bet freely that wa^ will not leave this camp until peace is made. One drummer and two filers, of the loth Indiana, took up their quarters with our band. They played the retreat to-night. A parade ground was cleared out to the left and rear ot the Regiment. Dress parade was held at 4 : 30 p. m. This is the lirst one we have had in this camp. Our men are so scattered that it is iiu^on\'iniient to have parade. FIFTY-EIGHTH INDIANA KEGIMKXT. 379 Several women were in camp to-day, begging. Thev did not get anything to eat. Indeed, it is the greatest joke ot' the season, tor these women to come begging food from soldiers, who are themselves on half rations, because the husbands of tliese women are in our rear, cutting off our sup- plies. If the men can stop one half, and the women beg tlie other, we mav sav our shortest pravers and die at once. This is an. exceedingly lovelv night. The air is bracing. The moon is shining lovely. The earth has been dried by recent rains. The leaves are still green upon the trees. Men are sitting about their camp hres. There is no whisky in camp to-night. A spirit of cheert'ulness and hilaritv pre- vails. Some are talking and laughing. Some are singing. Some are playing on some instrument of music. I am tryincr to learn a tew lessons in German. I wish that I could speak it. Here I close mv rambling records for to-day. Tuesday, October ii. — The momentous event of to-day is the election in Indiana. I dreamed last night that I voted. It was late this afternoon. I voted — just as I would have done had I been at home — for all the Union ticket. State and county, except Colonel Conrad Baker. He once insulted me in a small matter, and has never made any apology. I bear him no malice, but I cannot vote for him under present circumstances — even in dreams. I feel a deep interest in the election in Indiana. I hope our State will not be handed over to Mr. McDonald, and his faction of disappointed and unpatriotic men. He has no appreciation of the great struggle we are now engaged in. He and his people are devotedly attached to the institution of human slavery. Their success would oiih- prolong the contest. It must continue until slavery falls. The news of the evacuation of Richmond is not contirmed to-day. A dispatch from General Slocum, containing yes- terda3''s news, has been in* circulation this afternoon and the Regiments have been hollowing about it. I had rather have a confirmation for to-day. than a rehash of A'esterda\\s tale. 380 CHAPLAIN MIGHT'S HISTORY OF THE I find many men in the army who won't believe anything until they hear it several times ; on the same principle of some people who tell a lie until they begin to believe that it is true. The news from Allatoona Pass is confirmed. It will do to tie to. Indiana is full of fools and traitors. Between the two there is some danger that Joseph E. McDonald has been elected governor. My trust is in God. I cannot think that He would permit such a calamity to overtake the State. Surely there are enough righteous men in Indiana to save it. We had a good meeting this evening. Private Henry W. Bryant preached on "The Fullness of Christ." One young man came forward for the prayers of the Church. Wednesday, October 12. — We are still without any communication, by rail, with the rear. Telegraphic com- munication was restored yesterday. I have not heard a single addition to our stock of news from Sherman or Grant. In our immediate vicinity, I can only record a slight skir- mish on the picket line at Atlanta, the passage of 2,000 beef cattle towards Atlanta, and the exit of a large drove of con- valescent horses and mules to the rear. Work is still progressing on the fortitications. A short line has been constructed to-day, to protect our left. Our lives are now almost as monotonous as those ol men in prison. Entirely cut off from all communication with the rest of mankind, and with nothing to attract our attention, we are thrown entirely upon our own resources for happiness. An election was held yesterday and to-day in the 58th Indiana, merely to ascertain the sentiments of the men on political questions. The soldiers of Indiana arc not allowed to go home to vote, nor to have their vote, cast in the tield, counted. In other words, there is a large portion of the loyal element of Indiana disfranchised, by the decision of the last Legislature, which was largely disloyal. Tliis vot- ing in our Regiment, therefore, vVas only to show how we would have expressed ourselv^es if we had been given a chance. r^ojlowinir is the result : FlFTY-EKiHTH INDIANA KEGIMENT. 381 THE REGIMENTAL VOTE FOR GOVERNOR. lS6/f. Sectiox. Held and Staff Company A Company B Company C Company D_. Company E Company F Company G . Company H . Company I . Company K _. First Detachment, loth Indiana_ . Second Detachment, loth Indiana. Total McDonald vote, 34. •TJ 61 59 48 .SI 34 48 49 41 49 28 50 41 H pi 5S 49 44 36 34 45 34 39 36 27 5" 41 569 503 469 10 36 49 43 3^) 3- 44 Z3 39 36 20 50 41 34 Morton's majority', 435. There are more McClellan men than McDonald men in our Regiment. We have no current news to-day, nor confirmation of pre- vious rumors of the fall of Richmond. We have no trains, mail, or telegraphic dispatches. The mules and horses are still without any feed, except a little wild grass from the woods and old fields. The weather is exceedingly beautiful and pleasant. The nights are cool, but there is no frost. Our Regiment is now reporting to the Brigade com- mander, of this post, for orders. He belongs to the 3d Division, of the 2()th Corps. CHAPTER XXV. In Camp on the Chattahoochee — Some Exciting Inci- , dents to Vary the Monotony — Desertion of Shaw, fui.lerton and plerson^ — capture of our mules — Exciting but Fruitless Chase — Communications with the North Severed — New Recruits — Watch Presentation — Non - Veterans Return Home — Preparations to Join Sherman in his March to Savannah — Leaving our Pleasant Camps. SOMETIMES it seems that His Satanic Majesty is in full control of our Regiment, and that his emissaries are especially engaged in creating trouble in camp. To-night (October 13th) was one of such times. When I went to bed, about ten o'clock, George W. Howard, of the band, was making considerable noise, in his quarters, on our line. The Major made him go to bed, wliich was not only tlie best thing that could be done for the bo}^, but it also saved him from being engaged in a lirst-class row. wliich was tlien brewing. It seems tliat a few rowdies, in our Regiment, have a society of some kind — probably devoted to wliisky and lewd women. After I lay down, this evening, I heard a great noise in the distance. Soon, the Major was on his feet, commanding the guard to arrest the party making the noise. The guard started to perform this duty and soon returned, bringing some one who had been badly beaten. It was McAllister, of Company A. He was recruited last spring by Captain C. C. Whiting, He has been in at k\ist one Regiment, otlier tlian ours, from which he was ncn-er cHs- charged. He says he has bi-iMi in llie reliel army, antl was FIFTY-EIGHTH INDIANA REGIMENT. 383 an orderly to General Hardee. He has a brii^dit and intel- lectual countenance, but a most villainous eye, and is with- out education. He has peculiar talents for singini^ and kicking up all kinds ot' gymnastic feats. To-night, he has been out, in company with some members of his "society," serenading. By this employment, they got enough whisky to make the entire company drunk. Some mules and horses were to be taken from the corral. On these they were to ride, I know not where ; but the brethren fell out by the way. McAllister was badly beaten by one Hugh Shaw, the most desperate man in the Regiment. Shaw was just trom the State prison, when he enlisted in the 58th Regiment, in 1861. He comes of bad stock. He knows how to behave, and can even assume some of the refinements of good society. He is smart enough to get along in almost an}^ occupation, and is a man of many good impulses and traits. He has once been sentenced to death* since he has been in the Regiment. He attempted to escape, but w^as recaptured. The man who was with him has never been heard of since. In company with Shaw, in the fracas last night, were Charles Fullerton, leader of the brass band, and James Pierson, alias "Turnips." They were all arrested and tied up. Friday, October 14. — This has been another beautiful and quiet day. We received a mail, but the latest dates were the 15th and i6th of last month. At that time com- munications wuth the North were open. So this mail has brought us nothing new. The rebel army is reported on the railroad, between Resaca and Chattanooga. The capture of Richmond is still unconfirmed. I am, therefore, satisfied that there is no truth in the rumor. I hear again, to-day, that Sheridan has again defeated Earh^ in the Shenandoah valley. I suppose that this is the same old story, repeated for want of something else to tell. If we must liave lies, I prefer new ones. I hear also hear that Huford has defeated Breckinridge, in Kentucky. This is the first intimation to * Tliis was lor a brcacli ol" discipline at Dcchcrd, Tenn., in iS6j. Sec page 84. H84 CHAPLAIN IIIGHT'S HISTOID OF TllK nu" tliat either of thoni was in the bluegrass conimonweahh. There is great danger that Breckinridge mav carry off some of the more enthusiastic McClellan men into the rebel army. With these brief rumors and surmises, and this old mail, ends our communications with yonder world. We cannot see as much of it as the inhabitants of the moon, for to them it appears as a large, beautiful orb. We see a few yards of a dirty river, and the adjoining hills. Meanwhile, the stock of rations is getting smaller, and the mules and horses are starving. The young rowdies of last night's debauch are on latigue duty to-day, except McAllister, who has not sufficiently recovered. Howard was released at noon. In the forenoon, they worked on the entrenchments, and in the afternoon they buried mules and dug up stumps. Saturdav, October 15. — Charles Fullerton, Hugh Shaw and James Pierson deserted last night. The}^ are notorious rascals. Everybody seems glad that they are gone. Sunday, October 16. — We received a mail this at'ternoon. There were no dates later than the ist inst. Tiiere is great rejoicing in camp, as the men read the names of the drafted. It seems that Hugh Shaw, Charles Fullerton and James Pierson, who deserted us Saturday' night, have joined a band of rebel marauders, who are now infesting the sur- rounding regions. As we liave no mounted men, our forage parties are almost entirely at tiieir mercy. Earh- Ihis morning, as usual, the mules and horses, under the drivers, protected bv only thirteen guards, imder Lieutenant Robert Cromwell, were sent out to graze. The mules were taken two miles up Peach Tree Creek, and crossed over on a bridge, into an old field, where they were graz- ing. This is the second bridge on the creek ; the hrst one is near the mouth. In several places between these, footmen can cross. Ikit in most places the water is deep enough to drown a man or mule. Just abov-e tiie place where the mules were feeding therq is another liridge, on a road leadinn- from Atlanta to Pace's Eerrw A short (lis- FIFTY-EKxHTH INDIA^W REGIMENT. 385 tance out this road it is crossed by another bridge, leading iVom the mill, near our camp, to Buck Head. These two roads and the creek form an angle ; in this, the mules were I'eeding, as stated above. Lieutenant Cromwell posted his men in the neighborhood of the road tiiat crosses the creek, but left the Buck Mead road unguarded. At the same time, Captain William E, Chappell, with sev^en men and three wagons, went out hunting for lumber. He left two of iiis men on this side of the creek, and went with the other fiv-e to the Buck Head road for lumber. He posted Henry C. Wyalt and George W. Martin, out in advance, on tiiis road, as videttes. In the meantime, an old citizen, passing by, on his way to mill, called Lieutenant Cromwell and cautioned him to be on his guard, as there were rebels about. To this, it seems, no attention was paid by the Lieutenant, as it was not believed there were any rebels near. Three men, two in Union uniform and one in citizen's dress, came by Ser- geant Berr}^, of Lieutenant Cromwell's command. The men carefully kept their hands on their guns, as they approached. They said: "Hello, boys! wiiat are you doing here? Where do you belong? At Gain's Ferry?" The}^ then further asked, "Have 3'ou seen any rebels about here to-day?" They then passed on. After they were gone, the Sergeant spoke to a man on duty near, about these three fellows. They all agreed that "they looked at us suspicioush'." The Sergeant, at first, thought that they were scouts, but afterwards concluded that they were rebels. The other man said, "they are scouts, and are suspicious that we are rebels." The Sergeant was impressed that if they were rebels, it would not do to arrest them, for said he, "when the first gun was fired they would all be on us, and what could thirteen men do?" It was afterwards discovered that two of these men were scouts, and one a spy — all belonging to our army. They had seen the rebels a short time before. Why they did not tell our boys of this, 1 am unable to sav. 38G CHAPLAIN RIGHT'S HISTORY OF THE Wvatt and Martin left their ]:)()st and wandered along the Buck Head road, at least a mile, to a house where some women live. The women told them that the rebels had been there, that morning, and would soon return, and that they had better leave, but our boys paid no attention to this advice. Soon the rebels came from the direction of Buck Head. Wyatt and Martin were made prisoners. The scouts had seen them shake hands, and heard one say, "How are you, Shaw? " The scouts did not belong to our command here, but to Atlanta. Thither they went, immediately, carrying such news as they had picked up. Captain Chappell looked down the road and saw about twenty rebels, mounted, and charging on his little party. His three men were loading- boards. He commanded them to get their guns, but the rebels w^ere too close on them. They fled into the tim- ber, followed bv Edward Mason, of Com- panv D, the hostler for the field and staft' otiicers. The rebels called aloud for a halt, and began firing. Mason obeyed and was marched off by the rebels, on double quick. The remainder of the party trusted to the brush and escaped. In the head of a little ravine, under some green briars, Captain Chappell sought shelter and found safety. The rest of the party also escaped. A short distance farther on, the road leads by the field, where the mules were grazing. Into this field, the rebels, some twenty strong, charged with a loud yell. They had passed by the left flank of the guards. One man of the thirteen — Henry Beck — fired on the rebels. The remainder of the guards fled, seek- ing safety for tliemselves. Several of them state tliat tiiey LIEUT. S. F. UTLEY, Company K. * Was mustered in with the Regiment at Camp Gibson, and served in the ranks until November, 1864, when he was promoted to Second Lieutenant of Company K. He was mustered out with tlie Regiment as First Lieutenant. Since the war, he has been engaged, principally, in tanning, ami now resides near Waterloo, Kansas. FIFTY-ETGHTH INDIANA REGIMENT. V,M might have delivered efficient shots, but they tlioiight such a course would endanger their safety. Other bands of rebels, besides the twent}^ above named, dashed into the field ; accounts differ as to numbers. As they came in, they shouted, and some discharged their pieces. They seemed more bent on making a noise than on hurting any one. The teamsters dispkwed a most astonisliing ingenuity, and alacrity, in fleeing Irom the marauders. Some fled up the creek and some down ; some flew rapidly over the bridge, like Mohammedan going to Heaven ; some plunged into the stream, as Leander did the Hellespont; others, less classic, hid in the bushes. The rebels captured but two men — Caleb Andrews, of Company E, and William 11. Roberts, of Company F, M}^ gallant mare caught the spirit of the hour. She thought, in imitation of Job's war horse, she would "smell the battle afar ofl'.'' In a moment she was over the bridge, and soon came dashing by headquarters, with reeking sides. She reported at the stable, with the Major's saddle and with the horses of the Surgeon and Assistant. But an earlier messenger than my mare — but not from the scene of action — came to camp. The rebel charge and the guns were heard at the picket line. Robert Steel was dis- patched to carry the news to Colonel Moore. A few min- utes after, Aaron Cloin came dashing into camp, yelling as he came: "The rebels are taking the mules as fast as they can. If ^^ou want to save any you had better hurry." Now ensued a scene like that "In Belgium's Capital at Night," save the poetry and women. Major Downey laid aside the hammer and nails, with which he was working, and buckled on his sword. Captain Smith, at the head of Company B, led the van, and Captain Evans, wnth Company G, followed. Then came the remainder of the Retriment, in pell-mell order. Afterwards, the detachments of the loth Indiana, came on as re-enforcements. :{}!.'{ CHAPLAIN RIGHT'S HISTORY OF THE A swift messenger bore the tidings to Colonel Smith, commanding post. He sent out parties in all directions. I afterwards saw one of these, having failed to find any rebels, paying their attention to persimmons. Away went the dashing cavalcade, on foot. In one respect, I am much like other men — not afraid when there is no dan- ger. So I went along. Up the first hill we went on double quick. Here is a mule driver minus his hat. Here are two men mounted on mules. Still we meet them, coming from all directions. Some are without hats, and some are wet from sw^imming the creek. All brought us some news, but their accounts did not agree. The time which had elapsed since the rebels left was stated at from five to thirty minutes. All the mules were gone, except a few which were ridden ofr by the drivers, and a few more that were wandering about, loose. The pursuit was continued about a mile. At the house where Wyatt and Martin were captured, the column was halted, the enemy being thirty minutes in advance. Cap- tains Smith and Evans, who were in advance, thought it useless to continue the pursuit, as the rebels could not be overtaken. The Major accordingl}' marched the Regiment back to camp. I thought at the time, that we should have gone farther. I believe many of the mules might have been overtaken before dark. Our losses were five men, one wagon, three hundred and eighty-five mules and four horses. The adventure was a complete success — for the rebels. They did not lose a man killed, and, perhaps, none wounded. Everything worked in the most charming man- ner for them. They captured more tiuin $50,000 worth of property. Upon oin* part, there is scarcely a creditable item connected with the entire afiliir. From beginning to end, there was an utter w^ant of judgment and energy ; but I refrain from comments, as the case is bad enough on a ]-)lain statement of the facts. Wednesday, October 19. — A party, under Captain \'o()r- hees, went as far as Buck Head, to-day, to gather up strag- FIFTY-EIGHTH INDIANA EEGIMENT. 3fi0 gling mules. The expedition was unsuccessful. Informa- tion received confirms the fact that Shaw, Fullerton and Pierson were guiding the rebels in their raid yesterday.* The wagon bridge is being repaired by a lazy set of fel- lows, called 1st Michigan Engineers and Mechanics. I went to see liow they were getting along, this morning. They are, principally, engaged in doing nothing. It would have a wholesome effect to send them to the front a while. Their places could well be supplied by men who have been exposed to bullets for a campaign or two. When men realize that "they have a good thing of it," as it is expressed in the army, they are too prone to become careless and indifferent. This is true at home as well as here. There is an order this evening "to be ready tor an attack, momentarilv expected." It seems the rebels had burned a train beyond Vining's Station. An order came for three commissioned officers and one hundred and fifty men to report at the pontoon bridge. The Colonel called * These rebel raiders were known as Graham scouts, and were, at this, time, in command of Captain Harris, who is now (1S95) a successful physi- cian in Muskogee, Indian Territory. By request, Captain Harris writes the following, as his recollection of this exciting event, from a rebel standpoint: "Our Graham scouts were bivouacked twentv-five miles above the bridge, on the river, resting our horses, after some hard marching and a fight, two days before, at Marietta. "One afternoon a picket came in in charge of three deserters from the sSth Indiana Regiment. I think their names were Shaw, Pearson and Fullerton. They informed us that the .sSth Indiana grazed, every day, five hundred mules, near the camp, and urged us to go at once and take the mules in, reserving to themselves, not only the honor of piloting the scouts, but of leading the charge. After assuring them that if an_y trick or misrepresenta- tion developed the\' would be shot, instantly, the scouts, about fifty in num- ber, were ofi', with 'our pets," as we called them, at the head of the column. In four hours the five hundred mules were thundering along at a break-neck gait up the river, with 'our pets,' who, a few minutes before, had led us on to victor\-, now bringing up the rear. Knowing the coimtry thorouglily, and by a circuitous route, we soon make good our escape, with both mules and prisoners. Shaw and Fullerton remained with the scouts, and rendered good service to the rebel cause, until the end. Still, I think the part they played was prompted more by a spirit of revenge than love for the 'lost cause.' They received an insult (real or imaginary, I cannot say) from a superior officer, which led them to the desertion, as I remember it. "In the language of the immortal Lincoln, 'With charity for all," I am, "Wry truly yours, "C. 'HARRIS."' aOO CHAPLAIN HIGHT'S HISTORY OF THE out the Regiment and counted oiY one hundred and iilty enlisted men. It took all the Regiment, except Company B. They were marched ot^' with all their officers, and no rations or blankets. Old soldiers only take what they are ordered to take. The inspector of the 20th Corps has been here, to-dav, inquiring into the capture of the mules, yesterday. It won't bear investigation. Thursday, October 20. — Early this morning the detach- ment sent out last evening, under Major Downey, returned, tired and hungry. Man}^ of them had had neither supper nor breakfast. They went up the railroad, last night, to the wreck of a train destroyed by the rebels, a few miles beyond Vining's Station. Darkness soon came upon them. They went straggling along the track, sometimes having out skirmishers. On the march, some of the men in Com- pany K saw the signal light on Kenesaw Mountain, more than five miles off. They thought they saw men about the tire, and, imagining that it was near, and was the burning train, with rebels about it, did not wish to advance. Our men did not know whether the train was in the pos- session of friend or foe. Thev, therefore, approached cau- tiously. A volley was poured into them, by an unseen enemy, who immediately fell back. Many of our men returned the tire. One man fired, threw down his gun, and fled towards the rear, carrying several thoughtless men along. It is easy to communicate a panic, especially when in the dark. These men were rallied by Major Downey, and soon the fn-ing ceased. A cautious advance was made, when the supposed enemy was found to be some of our own people, from an Illinois Regiment. Fortunately, nobody was hurt. Our men remained all night, and returned this morning, on the cars. Monday, Octobk:r 24. — Dr. Iloltzman returned, last night, from the North, having walked twenty-five miles, where the railroad was not repaired. Lieutenant Behm got a wagon. FIFTY-EIGHTH INDIANA REGIMENT. ;191 and we went out to where Mr, Howell's house had stood, for brick to make a chimney. The Regimental provost guards went along. We came to the ruins of a once splen- did mansion. Nothing was left of it, save the remains of the cooking stove, and some piles of bats. Fences and all were gone. Several lines of entrenchments were dug where the house and garden used to be. While we were engaged in digging amongst the bats for whole brick, my mind was busy, comparing the past with the present. Here lived a rich southern planter — a rank rebel. When the war began, no doubt, he rejoiced. He sent his sons into the army. Often the war news was dispatched in his mansion. Here there was rejoicing, again and again, when the Yankees were defeated. Little did these people suppose that the tide of war would roll all the way from the Kentucky border to their very doors ; little did they, in their haughty pride, imagine that hated Yankees would dig up their tields, burn their fences, and tear down their houses. Now, they flv, while a Yankee preacher is digging up the foundation bricks with which to build himself a chimney to his cabin in camp, near by. And wh}^ all this? Why does God permit these things? It is because they are the champions of slavery, and we of freedom. The story of the war is long, but the moral is short. "In such a contest," said Jefterson to the South, "there is no attribute of DeitA^ that can take sides with us." While eating supper, this evening, I thought I heard a church call. But, as I knew there was no meeting, I sup- posed that I was either mistaken, or it was in some other Regiment. After eating, I noticed lights in the little arbor we call oiu" chapel. Theie was also singing, and a crowd about the door. Lieutenant Behm suggested that we go down. I told him I would not, as I did not know what was going on, and I had not been invited. I began to feel that my dignity had been, in some way, compromised. Now, said I to myself, some humbug of a fellow has come along, has ;}!I2 CHAPLAIN RIGHT'S HISTORY OF THE had the church call sounded, and has gone into the chapel, without telling me. I thought to myself, I will give the bugler some further instruction not to sound the church call, without my request, or the order of the Regimental com- mander. I went into the Colonel's tent to hunt a newspaper to read. I saw Orderly Spain, as I entered the tent. lie looked like he was hesitating about going to church. He seemed to be looking to see if I was going. When he saw me enter the Colonel's tent, he came in, and said, "Chap- lain, they want you down at the church.'' "Who?" I inquired. "The 58th," was his reply. I asked, "Had I not better black m\' boots, and brush my clothes?" "Oh, no," said he, "that is no use." He then walked out. I went into my tent, combed my hair, changed coats, and brushed the brick dust off my boots. I then went with Ser- geant Spain to the chapel, without speaking a word to him. Seeing a vacant seat behind the stand, I went there and sat down. They were singing some hymn, as I entered. The house was full, and there was a crowd outside. As soon as the singing was oyer. Private P. W^. Wallace offered prayer. He then asked me to stand by the side of the table, while he uncovered a neat gold watch. He told me that it was designed as a present for me, from the Regiment. It was a token of their esteem. I cannot call to mind all he said. I got along very well, until he gave me the watch, and sat down. I was greatly at a loss, to know what to say. I made "a few broken remarks," as preachers sometimes say. I attempted to express my gratitude, but my effort was a failure. As Dr. Daily used to say, "I was not competent to the emergency." After all was over, some collected around me, and expressed their satisfaction that the\' had surprised me. I am very proud to receive this walcli. In itself, it is a gem. It is a beautiful American watch, eigliteen karat fme, purchased by Dr. Holtzman, for the Regiment, in Newark, N.J. It cost $206, and it is just such a watch as I have long desired to possess. FIFTV-EKiJITll INDIANA KKdlMEXT. 393 But, tlicn, the best of all is, it is a present from my Regi- ment. 1 treasure it chiefly on this account. If I live, I desire to carr}^ some memorial of my soldier life. I desire something to remember mv tellow soldiers by. Some of our officers have received swords. These must be laid aside when peace returns. But I can carry this watch while life endures. It will not only remind me of the happy da3^s of my soldier life, and of the comrades of my campaigns, but also of the coming night when no man can work. I am encouraged and strengthened b}^ this testimony of the love of my parishoners. May these bonds of love never be broken . Formerly there stood somewhere about this ferry, a large pine tree. It had been partly burned, and the pitch ran out of tlie sides and hung in large lumps. It long stood in this condition. From it, the place received the name of the Standing Pitch Tree. The neighboring stream was named Pitch Tree Creek. The place has now lost this name, and that of the stream has been corrupted to Peach Tree Creek. There is a street in Atlanta called Peach Tree street, from this creek. The name Cliattahoochee means in the Cherokee tongue, "blossoming rocks." I have read in some of the papers that this name refers to some beautifid rocks, somewhere about the stream. I have never seen them. Any one acquainted with the bed of the stream would understand the propriety of the name. The stones seem to blossom at the bottom of the stream. The bed is so rough that, even where fordable, a horse can scarcely walk, and canvas pontoons are badly cut up. But little has been said by me, in these records, of the horrors of the slave system of the South. Our campaigns have been so active, and our conveniences for writing so poor, that many thrilling accounts have not been written down. I hope, shortly, to place in my Journal some items of interest in reference to the negroes. I e\i)oct to live to see the end of the acciii-sed s\-st(Mu and all its defcndei-s. 894 CHAPLAIN HIGHT'S HISTORY OF THE l^)sttM"it^■ will never be able fully to comprehend the abomi- nations of slavery. I was deeply impressed with the language of Coheleth, when reading it yesterday: "So I returned, and considered all the oppressions that are done under the sun: and behold the tears of such as were oppressed, and they had no comforter; and on the side of their oppressors there was power: but they had no comforter. Wherefore I praised the dead which are already dead, more than the living which are yet alive. Yea, better is he than both they, which hath not yet been, who hath not seen the evil work that is done under the sun." — Eccles. 4: 1-3. Friday, October 28. — We now receive a small mail every day. We are getting a few papers, and we will soon catch up with the news. Five carloads of forage reached Atlanta to-day. This is the lirst that has come since the destruction of the railroad bridge by the great freshet. We are under orders to be ready to march. Our Quarter- master, Lieutenant Torrence, drew four hundred and sixty mules, to-day, to supply the place of those captured and starved. It is a sorry lot. Lieutenant Williams, of Colonel Buell's staff, arrived to-day from Chattanooga. A number of through trains came in to-day from Chatta- nooga. Our communications are once more open. We have been hearing from the elections in Indiana, Ohio and Pennsylvania for some days. All loyal men in the army are greatly rejoiced at the result. We expect to move in a few days. The 20th Corps is ordered to send all surplus baggage north, to be stored. Colonel George P. Buell arrived, October 30th, from a furlough of twenty da}'s, outside of the department. He has added much to both ends of it. He is in excellent health and spirits. He has been laboring with his usual earnestness in his absence. He has procured three hundred d."afted men, who will be on in a few da\'s. This will be a valuable addition to our niunbers. If the 10th Indiana can only be assigned to the Companies, wt' will have a pretty full RcLnment. FIFTY-EIGHTH INDIANA REGIMENT. 895 Monday, Octoher 31. — The most of the mysteries about our rumored march are to-day solved, b\' riunor. It is said the 20th, the 14th, 15th and 17th Corps, under General Sherman, are going on an expedition to Savannah, Ga. Our Pontoon train goes with Sherman's headquarters. We will start in a few days. An order was to-day (November 2d) received by Colonel Buell, to assign the loth Indiana detacliments to our Com- panies. Colonel Moore will do this bv letting each man go to the Company of the same letter, as that to which he belonged in the loth. Tliis will give : ati^faction, and will be eminentlv just and proper. I am told that this will add one hundred and sixty men to our Regriment. A dispatch was received, informing the Colonel that Gen- eral Sherman will not need us. We then began to give up all hopes of going. If we are not permitted to go I will be greatly disappointed. I have seen a> much of the country north of us as I desire. I have spent two winters campaign- ing in Tennessee. I would prefer wintering farther south ; I would like to see something of real Dixie. But in the afternoon, when Colonel Buell came back from Atlanta, he brought word that we were to accompany Sher- man. Preparations to march accordingly go forward. Our baggage is to be cut do^^n, the Compan}- books must be boxed, and the papers put in the valises. Thursday, November 3. — I enter the following state- ments, gathered from our Adjutant's monthl}^ return lor October. Total number of officers, twenty-six, all are pres- ent ; enlisted men present, four hundred and seventy-seven, absent, one hundred and six — total five hundred and fifty- three ; sick and present, seventeen ; sick, absent, sixty-one. These numbers are included in the present and absent above. The aggregate is five hundred and eighty-four. This exclu- sive of the non-veterans. According to the instructions of our Regimental Christian Association, letters have been prepared in these words: V,){\ CHAPLAIN' HKIHT'S HISTORY OF THE R. R. Brid(;e, Chattahoochee River. Ga.,) November 4th, 1S64. ) To all -vJioin if may concern: This is to certify that , of Company- , is a member in good stand- ing of the Christian Association of the 5Sth Regiment Indiana Volunteers, infantry, and as such, we commend him to the brotherly regard o\' all chris- tians, of whater name, wherever his lot may hereafter be cast. By order of the Christian Association. H. W. Bryant, Moderator. Jacob Davis, Clerk. Approved: John J. Might, Chap. sSth Ind. Vol. This certificate was giv-en to Abner M. Bryant, Qiuirter- master-Sergeant ; Sergeants Andrew Gudgel and Jason H. Crow ; Corporal A. R. Redman, and Privates P'rank Broad- well, Henry Beck and Charles Poorlev, of Company A ; Sergeants Ebenezer Keeler, W. B. Crawford and Solomon Reavis, and Privates J. R. Roseborough and P. W, Wal- lace, of Company B: Sergeant Pleasant N. Spain and Pri- vate N. Smith, of Company C ; Corporal Samuel Sh^, of Compan}^ F ; Private John A. Everett, of Company H. Friday, November 4. — Colonel Moore has been to Atlanta to see the Paymaster about paying our Regiment. There seems to be a difficulty somewhere about paying us. The families of many soldiers are sadly in need of funds We read in the papers that the mone}^ has been provided, and it is a pity red tape cannot be cut and the men paid before they start on a new campaign. The non-veterans, whose term expires on the 12th inst., went to Atlanta, to-day. In their departure we lose a num- ber of good men from our christian community. I can almost realize the sorrow of Rachel o\'er her chil- dren, in parting with these members of my army ilock. I can tind but little to comfort me. The wind howls dismally about my tent, and tlie cam]")aign before us looks dreary in th'ir absence. I nt'ver frh morr h)nt'lv since entering the arm\', save afU'r the shuighlcr of nian\- of \n\ Iriends, at Chickamauga. I am hrtttT ahlr to appreciate the h)vi' ol l)a\i(l ami [oii;illi;in , than on d" bi-roi'c. TIh'\- \\('i"(' soUlicrs ; FIFTY-EIGHTH INDIANA REGIMENT. 397 their hearts were knit together by common trials and fatigues. Their love was stronger than the love of woman. Thus, soldiers arc attached. Such partings as that of to-day, recall home and all its joys, and bring before us all the toils, still to be endured in the held. But let us button our soldier coats up to the chin, and be like John Brown's soul — "marching on." Seventy-six of our drafted men came to vis November 6th. They have been led hither and thither by various ignorami, 3xlept commissioned officers. The last one they were fol- lowing, passed on. If they had kept on following their blind guides they might, perhaps, have put in the remainder of their term. One of our men happened to be on the road where the drafted men were passing, told them where the Regiment was. So they came up, while their officers passed on. They were divided amongst the Companies for the night. The boys treated them very cleverly ; they took them into their houses and made them comfortable. The next morning our new recruits were marched in front of the headquarters. There are only a few weakly men among them. Upon the average, they are larger men than those now in the Regiment. They are furnished with clothing, knapsacks, and tents. They are deficient in shel- ter tents and gum blankets. Some of them desire great coats. But this is an article that will not pay soldiers to carry in this climate. It cannot be worn on the march. The drafted men express themselves as agreeably surprised at the kind treatment they receive in the Regiment. Thus far, they have been herded, like so many mules, but now they begin to receive courteous treatment. Usually, they are astonished to find so much good breeding and morality in the Regiment. They have shared the usual ideas, enter- tained at home, that the army is a bedlam, and the soldiers heathens. They now find that men are as good here, if not better, than at home. The great courtesy of our old soldiers towards their new fellows is a matter of pleasure to me. I took occasion to urge this course upon the men, a few Sab- H98 CHAPLAIN HIGHT'S HISTOKY OF THE baths ago. But, I suppose, it would liave been the same, anyhow. I liave not heard of a single taunt. Not a man has been heard to sav, "IIow are you, conscript? How arc you to-day?" I have not learned exactly what proportion of them are drafted and what substitutes. One man was pointed out to me who had received i^i ,000 for coming in some other man's place. A little, hardy, German came up this morning. Pie had served three years in the 24th Wisconsin. He has come out again, for one year, as some man's substitute, for ^1,000. It is astonishing to me, that a man in ordinary tinancial cir- cumstances and good health, will be so foolish as to sink a thousand dollars to keep froin going to war, for one year. They must think it an awful thing to go to war. It would make men of some of them, to serve a twelve-month in the army. But so it is — they won't come. The consequence is, that much of the wealth of the country will be transferred from those "who will only talk," to those "who will fight." Many of our new men are Germans. These make the best of soldiers. After asking their names, and ascertaining whether or not they were mechanics, the following assignments were made : To Compan\' A 7 To Company B 10 To Company C i To Company E 18 To Company G . 10 To Companj- II . 2^ To Company K .. .. 9 Total 78 Most of this number are from the 2d Congressional Dis- tiict, but some are from the i ith. No choice of Retjiments was given them. It would have been more pleasant, if men from the ist District could have been assigned to the 58th. Lieutenant-Colonel Moore consultc>d iheir wishes, as far as he could, in assigning them to Companies. •The loth Indiana, having been assigned to the dilTerent Companies, was, to-day, ordered to change' their quarters. FIFTY-EICtHTH INDIANA REGIMENT. 300 They are distributed, according to their letters in the loth, as follows : To non-commissioned staft" i To Company A -- To Company B n To Company C i7 To Company D. 3<> To Company E 1 13 To Company V -5 To Company Cx it To Company II <'> To Company I i''> To Compati\- K i- Total from loth Indiana 164 Telegrams were received, to-dav, by Colonel Buell, informing him that the other drafted men had been started from Dalton. We will soon have a large Regiment. The excitement about the march has passed away. The remainder of the armv has encamped a few miles in our n rear. Their wagons are passing to fi Atlanta to draw rations. It is said that we will not marcli until the election is over, and the men paid. ^ f ''' M\ jA This afternoon a small squad of rebel ■ i^ iJ^^' cavalrv crossed the Atlanta road, cap- ' ^X '^- ' -,*«■,' turing a few mules and a wagon or two, LT"!!! . '*^' r' and mortallv wounding the vidette. Our THos. J. HADDOCK * Regimeut fell in in great haste and ran Private Company K. 1 .1 '^ J ,11 towards the scene, recruits and all. Colonel Buell, not understanding the nature of the country, made a bad disposition of his forces. Instead of immedi- ately possessing the bridges and fords on Peach Tree creek and the Buck Head road, he ran after the rebels. Of course, we did not overtake them. They crossed the bridges before we got to them. I returned from the chase, verv tired. k * Was mustered in Decemlicr, 1S61 , and served three years. He is now (1895) livin<( in Lowndes, Wayne eonnty, Missouri, 4-00 CHAPLAIN HIGHT'8 HISTORY OF THE An election for President was held, this evening, as a test. Company E did not vole. The following is the result : THE REGIMENTAL VOTE FOR PRESIDENT, I864. Section. Field and Staft". Company A Company B Company C Company D.. __ Company' V Company G Company H Company I Company K Band ..1 Total 306 10 ■43 33 40 31 35 33 36 25 17 3 3 7 4 16 I 13 76 230 The recruits do not seem inclined any more for McClel- lan tlian the old soldiers. The detail who went to Atlanta to-day (November 8) report that all citizens are ordered to be out of the city by to-morrow morning. The last train of cars leaves Atlanta for the North, to-morrow, at twelve m. The city is to be evacuated and burned. I cannot vouch for the truth of the rumors. I do not know what they indicate, if time. My opinion is that Sherman designs to pretend retreat, and then turn upon and invade the South. One thing is certain : He can only deceive the enemy by misleading us all. He now has us all pretty well befuddled in our ideas of his designs. We have not received any mail for about two weeks. Wednesday, November 9. — I rose, this morning, a little after day. While dressing, cannonading began, in the direction of Atlanta. Tliis was a strange sound to our ears. After a few guns, the liring ceased. But after lireaktast it broke out afresh, and continued lor an hour or more. Our FIFTY-filGHTH INDIANA REGIMENT. 401 train, with guards, was ordered back, after having gone a mile on the road towards Atlanta. When the iiring ceased, they were again sent forward. This evening, they returned, bringing word that the firing of the morning was caused b}'" a rebel reconnoissance. Perhaps they desired to know whether the place was evacuated or not. They are too fast, by a few days. Have patience, my rebel friends ; the Gate City will soon be yours — that is, what's left of it. A telegram, dated November 8, came this evening (Nov. lo) giving some rays of election news. It is favorable to the re-election of Mr. Lincoln by overwhelming majorities. I am much pleased to hear that he is running well in Ken- tucky, and has carried Missouri. The doom of slavery is now fixed. Thank God for this. Special Order, No. 115, from the headquarters of the 20th Corps, dated November 2, directs the assignment to Com- panies in our Regiment the detachment of tlie loth Indiana and the recruits. Fifteen more recruits came up this even- ing, ten of which were assigned to Company K, and five to Company C. The size of our Regiment is increasing very rapidly. Friday, November ii. — Our last mail for the North left to-day. I have sent oft' my Join^nal up to last night — the latest hour. This is fortunate for me ; I did not know at the time that our last mail was gone. I became aware of this when I saw the order for the destruction of tlie railroad bridge, to-morrow. The remainder of our recruits, except fifteen, came up to-day. They were assigned as follows : Eight to Com- pany A, fifteen to Company F, thirteen to Company G, and twenty-eight to Company I. There will now be about eighty men for duty in each Company. This gives us a large Regiment. Colonel Buell has recommended a full complement of officers. Several of these men are very poor excuses, put forward, to the exclu- sion of better men, who stand in the regular line of promo- l.()l> CHAPLAIN IIKrllT'S HISTORY OF THP: tion. But most of them are meritorious soldiers, and richly deserve promotion. The drafted men have had sorrowful times getting to the Regiment. They have known, since leaving Indianapolis, where the 58th was, but the officers in charge seem to have been fools. After various delays the men were brought as far as Dalton and stopped. After a time, a hundred were sent to Atlanta ; the officers in charge of these did not then know where to find the 58th. Twenty-iive were detailed and sent oft' as a train guard. Several of these latter have, in various ways, found the Regiment and straggled to it. But most of them are still "at sea." The other seventy-five came up, as has been already related, some days since. The two hundred at Dalton remained there until Colonel Buell sent a telegram lor them. They were then shipped on the cars and came as far as Kingston. It so happened that our non-veterans, in going North, stopped here and drew rations. From this, a rumor prevailed, that the 58th Indiana had gone to Chattanooga. The recruits were accordinglv shipped for the North, with a design of sending them to the 4th Corps, somewhere in middle Tennessee, or north Alabama. It was supposed by the officers that the 58th Indiana was there. Several officers were greatly shocked, and used protane language, when the conscripts hinted that the 58th Indiana was at Atlanta, instead of in General Thomas' new arm v. In keeping with the policy which sent some of our men to Vicksburg, in 1863, it was determined to send these men to the 4lh Corps. Fortun- atelv, some of our non-veterans at Chattanooga came upon the drafted men, and reported their case to Captain \"oorhees. lie interceded for tlie conscripts, and our new braves were once more on tlieir way to the front. The}' came through yesterday, on the last section of cars that cami^ to Atlanta. These men M^ere drafted in September, for twelve months, and more tlian a month of their time has been consumed in reaciiing the Regiment. We came near losing them entirely on this campaign. When I see business done in FIFTY-ETGHTII INDIANA I^EGIMENT. 100 this style, I can but regret that the Governor, in conferring commissions, is unable to give brains, also. The lion's skin does not alter the nature of the ass, I often hear these men attempt to roar, ])ut it inevitably results in a bray. The conscripts, on the average, are larger and older men than the volunteers. There is not as much life and enthus- iasm depicted on their countenances. They are not the men to be carried away by the music of a fife and drum, or tlie flapping of the star-spangled banner. Tlie}' are men who have fully meditated on bullets and chronic diarrhoea, and remained at home. Some of them are as warm blooded as anybody, but more urgent duties detained them at home. They look to me, as they stand in line, as men of more standing in the community than our volunteers. Here are more fathers, more men of property, more churchmen. I anticipate that they will be a valuable acquisition to our Regiment. There stands tatber and son — the bo}^ in the front rank, and the man in the rear. "This is all the family," said the father, "except the mother and the little ones." Perhaps, in the same neighborhood, there were entire families of grown-up boys, not one of whom was taken. Amongst the number, is a man of fifty or sixty years, who, for the sake of winning a wife, represented himself as being onl}' forty j^ears old. He won the lady and "drew a prize in Uncle Sam's lottery." There is a Mr. Evans, a brother of Joel L. Evans, of Company G, who was wounded at Chickamauga. He was mustered, in as his brother was being mustered out, at Indian- apolis. He desired to come to this Regiment, but the priv- ilege of choosing their commands was not given to the men. It so happened that he was assigned to the 58th, by mere chance, and got into Cornpan}^ G — the very Regiment and Company he desired to join. Shelter tents, great coats, ponchos, and rations were issued to the conscripts. In some of the Companies, shelter was found for them in the quarters already constructed. The 404 CHAPLAII^ HIGHT*S HISTORY OF THE remainder pilclied their shelter tents. They dechire them- selves greatly rejoiced at their reception in the Regiment. While we were all interested and talking about the con- scripts, a great smoke rose in our rear, all the way from the river to Vinings, and I soon learned that it was the 17th Corps, tearing up and destro^'ing the railroad. Farewell, North, "and the rest of mankind." We are now at sea initil we reach Savannah, or some other port. Sunday, November 13. — Early this morning our e^^es once more beheld the grand arm}^ Parts of the 15th and 17th Corps came pouring over the bridge, and moved on towards Atlanta. The part of the i6th Corps which partici- pated in last summer's campaign, has been assigned to the 17th Corps. I preached to a good sized congregation at ten a. m. Two old and thirteen new soldiers came up and joined our Christian Association. Amongst them, is a Mr. Corey, a local preacher in the M. E. Church. At two p. m. the Bible Class met. We were examining the 8th chapter of Matthew, when the assembl}^ was sounded. We brought ovu" recitation to a sudden close. The Regiment fell into line, without accouterments, and marched toward the river to destroy the great railroad bridge. After services I walked down to the bridge. The plan adopted for destroying the bridge, is to cut each end, knock off some of the braces, which are fastened with railroad spikes, fasten a rope to the end of the bridge and swing it in the same direction that the road runs. It is a trestle work, and it would be almost impossible to pull it over, either up or down the stream. The rails are not removed, as they will be servicable in holding the structure until it loses its equilibrium. To cut down the bridge or tear it to pieces would be an almost endless task. After remaining for an hoiu" or more for the preparations to be completed, I went to supper. Just after dark, when the moon was shining brightl}', I returned to the bridge. Before we came in sight, our ears I'IFTY-EIGHTH INDIANA EEGI3IENT. 405 were saluted by a long, loud, rumblino;, splashing, which echoed over hill and valley ; this was followed by a bois- terous cheer. We thought all was over, and hurried for- ward to see. Soon came another crash — long and loud — and then followed another cheer. By this time, we were crossing the wagon bridge. Both ends of the bridge had fallen, but there were still several spans, of middle portion, standing. The men who had been operating on the right bank, now cross over to the left. The cable was made fast to the end of the part of the bridge still standing. It was stretched along the railroad, and the men took hold. Altogether, the^^ draw on the rope — again, and still again. The great mass of wood and iron swings with the rope, with many a crash. "Pull away boys — altogether! Again, and again I He-o-heave ! He-o-heave ! He-o-heave ! " The fire flashes from the rubbing irons. The whole mass threat- ens to fall into the stream. It shakes like an aspen leaf; it trembles like Belshaazer of old. "Now ! Now I It will come — look — listen — see ! " A loud laugh amongst the Pon- toniers — the rope has broken. Again it is adjusted, and again all pull together, until the whole bridge catches the swing. Finally, the timbers begin to tumble, like men in battle ; they dash madly against each other, and amid flash- ing Are and splashing waters, the bridge comes thundering down, like Satan and his hosts, when hurled from Heaven to hell, save two spans, which stand trembling and rocking in the channel, like the stones of the Druids — which a child can shake, but a strong man cannot overturn. The fall is followed by a loud cheer from the Pontoniers. I noticed, particularly, that those who had not pulled did none of the cheering. The men of Colonel Smith's Brigade, who looked on, stood in silence. It is man's nature to believe that what he don't help do, isn't worth hollowing about. Here, the work was suspended for the night. The men were amply repaid for their labor, by the grand and lofty tumble, and thundering noise. Joking and laughing, they return to their quarters. CHAPTER XXVI. From Atlanta to the Sea — Moving Out from Chat- tahoochee — Burning our Quarters — Destruction of Atlanta — A Gorgeous Spectacle at Night — Pathetic Scenes — The Grand Army Moves Out in Three Columns — The Pontoniers Divided — A Historic Battlefield — Milledgeville — Bridging THE Oconee — Buffalo Creek — Sandersville — Ogeechee — Rocky Comfort — Refugees — Heart- less Conduct of General Jeff. C. Davis at Buck Head Creek — Also at Ebeneezer — Plenty of Variety and Excitement to Suit Everyone. ON Mondav morning, November 14, we completed our arrangements for leaving the Chattahoochee. Up and down the banks of this stream we have been campaign- inar for several months. Here we have had our abiding place since our return after the fall of Atlanta, and the time has passed away rapidly and pleasantly. We could easil}' make up our minds to remain here for the remainder of our term, if our personal comfort was all that is to be consulted. ]>iit this is not soldiering. A soldier is not to remain idle, but must be active in the vocation to which he is called. We will, therefore, cheerfully, abandon our pleasant quar- ters and go wiiere duty calls. It was about eiofht o'clock when the tinishing touches on the destruction of the railroad bridpfe were made. It was a complete wreck. After this was done our comfortable cjuarters were burned. The impression amongst officers and men, is, that we are to pass through the country, burning as we go. Hence, a commencement is made on our own quarters. These shanties could do the enemy no FIFTY-EIGHTH INDIANA REGIMENT. 1»>7 good. They may be worth something to some future Yankee army, or to the poor people residing in these parts. Finally, all things were ready and the command given, "Forward." As the Regiment moved out, it presented the appearance of a Brigade, so largely had the Companies been recruited. We remained several hours b}- the roadside, awaiting the passage of the army ; but the Tiber still rolls on. General Sherman and statYpass. He had new clothing, and looked neater than he ever appeared to me before. But, at his best, there are no outward signs of greatness. He appears to be a very ordinary man. Towards noon, we moved oft', by a road that leads by the place where our mules were captured. This is a better route to Atlanta than the one traveled by the army, and it is but little longer. The country is sterile. There are a few little, poor farms; most of the way is an unbroken forest. There is but one article to be* found in abundance — wood — and that of an inferior quality ; the timber is generally scrubby oak. As we entered Atlanta we saw in various directions, burn- ing houses. The work of destruction has commenced. We pass through the city and encamp in the southeastern suburbs, where there is no wood, except houses. It is now settled that our men are to get no pay, though the money is, and has been, for some time, at hand. This is bad on the families of the poor. We are ordered to march with twenty days' rations and four days' forage. We all think that we are destined for Savannah. Only a few of the more timid anticipate any difliculty from the enemy. If Lee evacuates Richmond to meet us, the Southern Confederacy is undone. Even tliough he should destroy Sherman's army, Richmond tails, and the Confederacy falls soon after. Grant will be as strong as ever, and Thomas will soon be as strong as Sher- man has ever been in these parts. But Lee cannot destroy Sherman, nor even defeat him. We have sixty thousand 408 CHAPLAIN HIGHT'S HISTORY OF THE men, as brave as ever trod the face of the earth. They can- not be defeated by any army which Lee can bring against us. I wish we had an hundred thousand ; but sixty will suffice. It seems to be the general impression in the public mind, that this expedition is undertaken because Hood, by his flank movements, makes it impossible for Sherman to hold Atlanta. But this is a mistake ; this advance was deter- mined when Hood was south of us. It would have been executed had he remained there. Now, since his removal north, Sherman can get along better. Hood is playing into Sherman's hands very nicely. We lay down to-night on the ground. This goes a little tough, after enjoying so long, our pleasant quarters on the Chattahoochee. Tuesday, November 15. — Late last night I was awakened by Colonel Moore coming to the tent door and saying : "Well, we divide in the morning: I take the four right Companies and half of the train, and march at daybreak, wi'ih the 20th Corps, on the Decatur road. Adjutant, you will go with Major Downey. Chaplain, you can take your choice." I lay awake an hour or two discussing the advan- tages of each detachment. I thought of my tent going one way and my mess another. I called up in m}- mind the probable direction of each party. I thought the 14th Corps would be likely to march south, and visit Macon and Mil- ledgeville. This, with other considerations, inclined me to go with the left wing of the Regiment. So I fell asleep, with my mind only partly made up. We were up before day. M}^ mind was fully made up to accompany the left wing, which goes with the 14th Corps. Colonel Moore and Dr. Patten exchange messes with Adjutant Behm and myself. At eight a. m., they left us. We are to remain in camp until to-morrow. Accordingly, the opportunity was improved to have our washing done. Colonel Buell had a pontoon drill during the tbrenoon, and also reorganized some of tlie squads to suit the division of the Regiment into two detachments. FIFTY-EIGHTH INDIANA REGIMENT. 409 I have spoken before of the fact that the rebels burned many houses, in the outskirts of the city, when they occu- pied it. When thev evacuated, they destroyed some build- ings containing supplies and ammunition. Many houses were badly torn by shot and shell, during the siege. Some buildings were burned at the same time, bv us, to give free range to our guns, or uncover the rebel sharpshooters. After the capture of the city many frame houses, especially in the suburbs, were torn down to make huts for the soldiers. They were in need of houses, and in no other way could these have been easil}" and quickly constructed. Since that time, a house has occasionally been destroyed by the torch of the incendiary. Of late, it has been known to all the army that this citv was to be evacuated. Now, when conquerors give up a city, there is a spirit wi'diin man which says, "Leave not one stone upon another." People, under similar circumstances, often destroy their own cities, but, usually, the love of property prevents this. A notion has possessed the army that Atlanta is to be burned, but I suppose the wish is tather to the thought. This idea has been strengthened b}- preparations, which are being made by the authorities, to blow up some of the more substantial pub- lic buildings. Hence, fires have increased of late, and drunken men have destroyed whole blocks. As we entered the city, yesterday, many houses were on fire, some of them being storehouses and shops, burned by order. The city was illuminated all last night, by the lurid glare of the con- flagration. This morning, a large cluster of frame hospitals in the eastern part of the city were simul'aneouslv given to the flames, by men detailed for that purpose. First, there was a hammering and banging within, as the kindling was being prepared ; and soon the flames began to rise from the numerous small buildings. The lumber used in the con- struction of the houses was pine, hence the flames spread rapidly. The}^ present a brilliancy, the equal of which some old firemen had never seen. While this grand sheet of flame and smoke, and flying cinders, rolled up into the 410 CHAPLAIN HIGHT"S IIISTOEV OF THE heavens, lesser fires were glowing in all parts of tlie city. At the same time, the army, in heavy colnmns, was moving east and south from the citv. Eastward marched the 20th Corps, the best equipped of the army. The 15th and 17th moved south. Long trains of wagons accompany each wing. In the camps, deserted by the 20th, in the city, there was no end to the trash, some of which is of some value. Chairs, camp stools and tables lie in confusion, and there are old pots, dishes, fragments of clothing, corn, etc. Mere are a compan}^ of poor people, huddled together in an open lot. Thev are collecting their scant property from their houses, either now burning, or soon expected fo burn. Some of the women were crying, some wringing their hands in agony, and some praying aloud to the Almighty. How far these people are deserving of pity, it is hard to tell. A little house, near our camp, was burned. Another fine frame residence, near bv, was soon in flames. Tlie fires continued to burst out in all parts of the city, most of them being the work of incendiaries. It was the design ot the authorities to destroy many of the buildings which would be of use to the enemv — how man}', I never learned. But, even these were not, in most cases, fired by orders, but by stragglers. This work of voluntarv incendiarism spread, in spite of tlie guards, and resulted in the destruction of a large quantity of clothing and salt meat, belonging to I lie 14th Corps. The compact business blocks, in the center of the city, were spared until the afternoon. In the morning, some of the depots and machine shops were blown up, and in the afternoon all were given to the flames. In some of the buildings were shells, whicli favored us with frequent explo- sions, thus adding the sound of war to the exciting scenes. At last, night, which usually puts an end to battles, came, but it onlv increased the conflicts of the flames. Such a pic- ture as now presented itself to my gaze, I had never seen before. Tlie fires in our cities at home sink into insignifi- i-ancc, Atlanta seemed a \vvy pandemonium. In all hues FIFTY-EIGHTH INDIANA REGIJIENT. 4-11 of glory and terribleness, in all forms and fashions conceiv- able, the flames and smoke surged amongst the burning buildings, like ocean waves, and struggled upward like a thousand banners in the sky. I low many years of toil and frugalitv were, this night, reduced to ashes. How many loved homes exist no longer, save in memorv. The snn set upon a man weahhv : it rose, and found him a beggar. Tlic beautiful city has become a desolation. How terrible are the retributions of rebellion. How wondrous the judgments of an avenging God against the crime of slavery. The work of destroving the railroads was carried on very busilv to-dav. Our people are making a thorough wreck of them. Tl^e rails are torn from the ties, which are tlien piled, and hud across them. Tlie ties are then tired, and the rails, while red hot in the center, are twisted. A rail, simp]}' bent, can be used again, without being taken to the shop for repair, but a twisted bar cannot. The instruments for twist- ing are two — one is a handspike, a green piece of timber about six feet long, and three inches in diameter ; the other is a substantial iron hook and ring, fastened together. The hook grasps, with an iron hold, upon one end of the flat, lower surface of the rail, and througli the ring is placed the end of the handspike. At the other end of the bar, there is the same arrangement, only for twisting in the opposite direction. While one set of hands is twistincf one wav, the other holds stead}', or twists in the contrary direction, and the center of the rail, being softened by the heat, gives wav under the pressure, and twists. Occasionally, an end will bend or break. This is hard, hot work ; but strong hands and willing hearts make it easy. The boys all like the fun. During the day, the 14th Corps came in from the rear, and went into camp, east of the city. Onlv Kilpatrick's cav- alry are behind. His train went south with the rio-ht winij. We learn that the new organization is called the Army of Georgia. There is an expression used by passing troops, "Same old Regiment — only we have drawn new clothes." So this is the same old arnn', witli a new name. 4-12 CHAPLAIN HIGHT'S HISTORY OF THE I cannot speak for other organizations, but in the 58th Indiana there is a general regret at parting with General Thomas and the Army of the Cumberland. But all have confidence in General Sherman, and are enraptured at the prospects before us, Wednesday, November 16. — While preparations were going forward for leaving, I rode over into the central parts of the city, to see how things appeared, this morning. There were still houses on tire, here and there. All the com- pact business blocks are destroyed ; only the tottering walls are standing. Provost guards were promenading through the desolate streets, to prevent lurther incendiarism. But the cavalry are yet to pass, and, how much they will leave, I cannot tell. The following extract trom a rebel paper, published at the time, will show that the Yankees were not the only vandals who visited Atlanta. The written invitations sent into the countr}^ are a myth : REBEL EVIDENCE AS TO HOW THE GEORGIANS ROBBED EACH OTHER. [from the AUGUSTA CONSTITUTIONALIST.] Previous to leaving this citv, the Yankees sent out written invitations to the people living in the counties surrounding it, to come in and get ashes at cheap rates, in any quantity. The people, however, did not accept the invi- tation at tliat time. But soon after the Yankees left the country, people flocked hy scores, from all parts of the country', some coming over one hun- dred miles. Ever_\- description of vehicle, drawn h\ niules, horses, stallions, jacks, jennies, oxen, bidlocks, etc., could be seen upon the streets. The scene beggars description. Iron, salt, bacon, flour, sugar, coffee, hides, and everything else, left by the Yankees, were imccremoniously deposited in wagons and -carts and carried off. But our country cousins did not stop at that. They entered the dwelling houses of those absent and gutted them of all their furniture. One lady, who left her house for a few hours to attend to pressing business, was astonislicd to find, on her return, all her furniture and wearing apparel gone. I'ullv one Innuired and lifty pianos were carried ofl" by the hoosiers. many of whom were unused to any "concord of sweet sounds," save that produced by the jewsliarp or fiddle. One of them, an illiterate backwoodsman, who resided in a humble hut, ten by twelve, was seen carrying out a magnificent piano in a small cart, drawn by a two-year-old bullock. FlFTY-EKxHTH INDIANA REGIMENT. 4-13 A venerable dame was observed trying to haul into her cart a fine piano by means of a rope attached to the legs. When asked what she was doing, she replied that. she had foimd a "mity nice table in thar, and was trying to get it in her keart." One man alone carried oft' over $50,000 worth of dry hides. Steps have been taken to secure all the articles carried oft", as well as the oftenders. Already much property' has been recovered. To Major William H. Lemmon, Surgeon of Colonel Hunter's Brigade, of General Baird's Division, the country is indebted for firing the famous Bull Pen. Nothing is left of this vile prison, except ashes. Having suffered incarcer- ation there, the Doctor sought and found revenge. At ten o'clock, Wednesday morning, November 16, we left Atlanta and its ruins. We marched east, following the 20th Corps, and immediatelv entered upon ground new to me. Between Atlanta and Decatur, the countr}^ is similar U) that towards the Chattahoochee. There was nothing attractive about the land or timber. Intense interest clustered about the historic battlefield of July 22, 1864. It was here that Hood attempted to show to the world that he was the man to hurl back the Yankee invaders. It was here that McPherson, the pride and glory of the Army of the Tennessee, fell. The graves of our brave boys make these woods sacred and dear to every patri- otic heart. Here sleep the heroes of many a bloody battle ; heretofore they escaped, but here they fell. Headboards are formed of pieces of cracker boxes, or ammunition boxes. On one side of these, we sometimes read, "Pilot Bread," or "Watevelit Arsenal," and on the other the name, the Com- pany, and the Regiment, of the fallen. Among those who fell here was Jacob Behm, of the 48th Illinois. I knew him, some years since, at Princeton, Indiana. He is a brother to the Adjutant of our Regiment. Jacob was a brave and gal- lant soldier, and fell, as such would desire to fall, with his face to the toe. Decatur is a dilapidated old village. The wooden houses are marked with age, and the commons are thickly set with grass. Onh' a few of the citizt'ns remain, and they are 4-14. CHAPLAIN HIOIIT'S HISTORY OF THE "poor white trash." One prett}^ little girl, with bright black eyes and glossy curls, gazed upon us, from a window — a beautiful picture in a decayed frame — recalling to us "glad- iators" our "young barbarians all at play," and causing the tear to steal, unbidden, down the bronzed cheek. These little episodes, seemingly unimportant in themselves, often call our minds afar from the scenes of war. We dream, but w-e are awake. I often see a picture, "The Soldier's Dream;" it is of home. We are not always asleep, when these visions come. Happy the remnant of us, who shall enter the promised land of a restored Union. Betw^een Atlanta and Decatur, there are many hastily erected field works. Eastward of Decatur, there are some splendid w^orks, constructed by the 23d Corps, after the fall of Atlanta. Leaving Decatur, we turned oft' to the right of the trail of the 20th Corps. They continued along the railroad, destroy- ing as they went. We left the ro^id and Stone Mountain to the left. I had desired a close view of this remarkable moun- tain, and expected my desires would be gratified, when we were approaching it in the morning. But I was disap- pointed. Night overtook us on the road. We drove out in the dark, and camped on a rough piece of ground, near Snap Finger creek, having marched fifteen miles to-day. Thursday, November 17. — We were up before day. The sky is clear, and the stars are brightly shining. It is a most charming morning for marching. We roll up blankets and tents, and eat our breakfast of coftee, biscuit and bacon, before day. At dawn, the march began. We follow the ist Brigade — Colonel Himter's — of Baird's Division. I learn that our people are neither to encourage nor to dis- courage the negroes in their desire to accompany us. Were I issuing orders, I w'ould direct : I. All women and children, and old men, to be urged, but not forced, to stay at home. Tell tiiem that the ami}- is no place for tliem, and lliat ihry had better remain on the FIFTY-EIGHTH INDIANA REGIMENT. 415 plantation, getting along as best they can, and afterwhile they can be free and happy in this, their own, country. 2. All able-bodied men invited, but not forced, to accom- pany us. Promise them employment, as soldiers ; it they do not want to light, tell them to go home — make them leave. 3. Organize each hundred negroes into a Company, and each thousand into a Regiment, and set good men over them. Distribute all the tools in the arm}^ among them, and make them pioneers ; let them gather up the cast-away clothing in deserted camps ; forage one blanket for each ; have every man to construct a temporary haversack; send out forage parties daily, and procure sufficient supplies for the com- mand. As the soldiers become disabled, turn their arms over to the negroes, and arm enough for forage guards. Explain to them that they must fight for their liberty. 4. When the campaign is over, organize them into an army. With all due modesty, I venture that there is more wisdom in this than in Sherman's orders. He has been a pro-slavery man, and is unwilling to take high and manly ground on the slavery question. We came upon the railroad again, at the little town of Lithonia, where the road makes a curve to touch Stone Mountain. As we passed through the town, several houses were on fire ; but the}' were old, and had long been unoccu- pied. General Sherman and staff' were resting, at a house by the roadside. Captain Poe's headquarters wagon, which was drawn by four splendid horses, attracted great attention. The 1st Michigan Engineers and Mechanics were busy, destroying the railroad. My attention w^as especially drawn to a peculiar feature of the country. In many places, rock rises above the surface, forming rounded knolls, which are smooth, and, at a distance, have tiie appearance of soil. Stone Mountain is the largest and roughest of these. We now came to a fine country, and the men began to find torage of various kinds, which is something new. 416 CHAPLAIN RIGHT'S HISTORY OF THE Conyer is a very respectable village, on the railroad, and the people all seemed to be at home. This was also a new experience for us. For a long time, the towns through which we have passed have been almost entirely deserted. Our men helped themselves to anything they desired to eat. No effort was made by the officers to restrain them. Rumor savs that one of the soldiers was shot by a woman, whom he was attempting to outrage. May all such villains die the same death. Here we passed a great many troops, destroying the rail- road. We hurry on towards Yellow river. The men had an exceedingly hard march. The countrj^ continued good, and plenty of hogs and sweet potatoes were found. Dark came upon us, on the march. The tires of the camp, and burning ties, presented a sublime sight. After a while, we reached our camp. Wagons and men were all jammed together, in a grassy field, a ravine preventing us from tak- ing plenty of room. T soon lay mvself down to sleep. While I was resting, a detail from the Regiment laid two pontoon bridges over Yellow river. We marched twenty miles to-day. Friday, November i8. — When I awoke, in the morning, the grand army was crossing the pontoons. This is always an interesting occasion, as it affords an opportunit}^ of seeing the army in detail. With us, there is the 14th Corps, and one Brigade of the 20th. About our camp, there are many line plantations, and some rich planters live here. The ladies, at some of the houses, are represented as intelligent, beautiful, and rebellious. A pretty traitor is no better than an ugly one — male or female. Many of the oflicers are boiling over with sympathy lor these pretty female rebels, but I have none, and have a great con- tempt for all officers who have. There is a nice little frame Methodist cluircli, standing on the lawn, ni'ar the river bank. By looking into the Sunday School books, I lind it was once called the Oak Grove Church. Again, it was called Oak Lawn Church ; and, FIFTY-EIGHTH INDLOA REGIMENT. 417 lastly, it tigures as Shiloh Church. As this last name figures only in rebel times, it was, perhaps, given it in honor of the famous battlefield. There was school here on last Sabbath. We appointed a meeting for this evening in the church. Orderly Clem, and some others, fixed up the house, but we were all gone before the appointed hour came. Yellow river is about one hundred feet wide, where the pontoons are placed. The banks are steep, and the stream deep. One bridge is used for trains, and the other tor troops. The cattle cross by swimming below, and wading above. Two hundred yards above the pontoons are the pillars of the railroad bridge, destroyed by some of our cavalry raids last summer. This bridge was three hundred feet long, and forty-five feet above the water. The stones in the pillars must have been of the secession school, for they early mani- fested a disposition to separate. Hence, many of them are bound together by iron bands or staples. Holes being drilled in two adjoining stones, they are clasped by thrusting the respective ends of an iron bar into these holes. Nearly thirty years I had lived, without seeing such a contrivance as this ; hence, I came not in vain to Yellow river. A mill had also been destroyed, with the bridge. The uegroes are beginning to flock to the army. Many men, women and children crossed the bridges to-day. There was quite a large number of bales of cotton on each bank. These were burned as well as they could be, by the rear guard. At 4 p. m. Colonel Buell, with Companies B and E, and half of the train, went forward to the Ulcofauhachee. The remainder followed at dark. One pontoon was taken up in thirty minutes. The 20th Corps Brigade, which formed the rear guard, after crossing the river, went into camp. For several miles we moved along through the dark, without seeing or hearing man or beast. After all the threatened bushwhacking, we could but leel uncomfortable. It would have been easv and safe to fire into our column. After a 418 CHAPLAIN HIGHT'S HISTORY OF THE while, two men, mounted, and leading a mule, passed. Per- haps they are spies ; nothing is said to them. We soon after entered a little village, in which there does not appear to be an inhabitant. Here, the column halted to let the train close up. The mules are still very weak from the Chattahoochee fast. Some shots being heard in advance. Lieutenant Hadlock is sent forward with a small advance guard. The drums could now be distinctly heard in our distant encampments, and a row of fires, afar off, told of railroad destruction. We lost our way, immediately after leaving this village. We were apprised of this fact by Lieu- tenant Hadlock, calling out to us from the other side of a creek. Some time was spent in getting into the right road again. We crossed a creek on a long, wooden bridge. We had a man or two killed here, when our men lirst advanced. We now have pickets here. A short distance farther on, we entered Covington. Here, we found a Regiment encamped. This is a large country town ; there are many fine buildings on the streets we pass through. I would have been glad to have seen Covington by daylight. I became ver}^ tired and sleep}^ to-night. Night march- ing is exceeding trving. I went to sleep sitting on the fence, and slept so soundly that I had to be called when the Regiment started. We soon began passing camps, but there was no camp for us 3'et ; we must unite the command at the river. We pass through a strip of the road covered by water. At last, about midnight, the Ulcofauhachee is reached. It is a deep, slug- gish stream, with almost no banks. There is a crazy old bridge standing ; built on one trestle, in the center of the river_. The riv^er is about seventy-five feet wide. A pon- toon has been made, bv Colonel Buell, bv the side of the old bridge. We pass over and camp in the first open ground. So, at one o'clock in the morning we had a cup of cofibe. The eight mile march with the train, after night, had worn us all out. We were all soon asleep, except some gluttons, who sat up all night to cook and eat. FIFTY-EIGHTH INDIANA REGIMENT. 419 Saturday, No\'EMber 19. — We arose late this morning and ate a poor breakfast, provided by our unthrifty servants. Our negroes can do but one thing at a time ; they cannot have all the meal cooking at once. If you increase the number of your servants you only multiply your sorrows. There is no remedy but to possess your soul in patience. We had an order this morning against incendiarism from General Davis. The order contained some slanders on the command. It berated our people after the manner of the rebel papers. The motive of the General was, perhaps, good. He condemned house burning. Colonel Buell, who is ever ready to reflect the wishes of his superiors, came out in an echo. The officer who could not enforce his order in any other way, was commanded, in this puerile paper, to shoot down the offender. Just think of shooting American soldiers for the benefit of rebels. No man, who really loves our cause and our soldiers, could issue such an order. If an officer desires to shoot our men, let him join the rebel army at once. We march in the rear of all the army, save the cattle guard. This makes our movements slow. If the enemy were only enterprising, the}^ might capture the pontoon train. A small squad was seen, to-day, by the preceding troops, but the}' did no mischief. The cattle are driven entirely on either side of the road. They are permitted to occupy no part of the way. The drivers have great times, wading through the bushes, mud and water. The droves are large and increasing. Plenty is found in the country to feed them, but often there is no time for them to eat. But few cattle are being slaughtered, as the men prefer fresh pork. Tiie number of refugees is increasing. I advised several women to remain at home. They will see hard times with the army ; freedom will dawn on them, soon, in the present homes. But liberty is sweet, and they seem to think it is now or never ; so they are falling in with the army by the t20 CHAPLAIN HIGHT'S HISTORY OF THE liundreds. Nearly every one has an irregular bundle of bedding and clothing. This is usually carried by the women, on their heads. After a slow and tiresome march often miles, we camped — no one knew where — at ten p. m. It has been a damp day, and the roads are bad. Sunday, November 20. — Reveille at four a. m ; marched at 5 :30 — ordered to follow Carlin. Marched by him and attempted a piece of smartness. Of course, we had to move oft' the road, and await our time. Colonel Buell is very anxious to get to the front with the Pontoon train, and sends forward a staft' officer to General Davis to report our condi- tion, so far in the rear, and to request that we be permitted to take a forward position. General Davis "can't see it," and we iiave to wait our time. The country through which we pass is splendid. It abounds in cotton, hogs, sweet potatoes, chickens, horses, mules, corn and fodder. We got plenty of everything except stock. We failed to send out for this. Wc stopped fortv minutes for dinner, and led from a field of standing corn. Cotton presses and gins were burned along the route. I saw a slave one hundred and seven years old. Negroes have been praying for us for four _\ears. Tiiese prayers will save the expedition. We passed through Shady Dale. It is an extensive plan- tation, owned by an aged planter. There are 8,500 acres, and were 250 slaves when the war began. There is a nice frame church by tiie side of the road. Thus, one man owns the village and all the people in it. At seven p. m., after a march of thirteen miles, we camped in the woods. By this time, the rain liad begun to fall. None but muddy water to use. Supper of fresh pork and sweet potatoes. Men all in excellent spirits. Monday, November 21. — Rain has been falling most of this day. In the afternoon it cleared off' and became very cold. Tlie roads are becoming almost impassable. FIPTY-EIGHTH INDIANA REGIMENT. 421 Lieutenants Behm and Torrence went forward with a detail to forage for horses and mules. We moved along very slowly, through mud and rain. The country is very high, rolling and open. Away to our right we could see the advance of our column. We continued on the Eatonton road until four miles of that place. We then turned to the right, to make room for the 20th Corps, which marches by Eatonton. At this point, our rear guard — a Brigade of the 20th Corps — left us and moved on to Eatonton. After our rear guard left us "out in the cold" — literally, for the wind was. piercing — Colonel Buell became greatly exercised, lest General Wheeler might swallow' us up. But this latter gentleman, being no where in these parts, is quite innocent of any such intentions. Mud bound, we stopped in the woods about dark. In a few moments, in obedience to orders, we start out and attempt to rejoin the main army, but the effort fails. We camp a half mile farther on, in a high open field. This was the highest spot in these parts. We marched seven miles to-day, by the road. It was about three or four on a straight line. Tuesday, November 22. — Marched at daylight ; came to the rear of the army before the train was pulled out on the road. Stopped often ; collected in little squads around tires made of rails. We came to Murder creek, about two miles farther. It is a small stream, and, although swollen by recent rains, is still fordable. There is an old dilapidated bridge, over which the infantry cross. It is full of holes, but I led my horse safely over. We descended quite a hill to cross this creek and went up a rise on the other side. I sat down by a house and fell asleep. The train moved off, and, when I awoke, I found myself lost. Colonel Buell, without orders, ran ahead ol General Carlin's train. Of course, he had to stop and take his proper place. General Davis issued an order, stating that we had gone about as far as we could expect to go in peace ; ammunition 422 CHAPLAIN HIGHT'S HISTORY OF THE must not be wasted. Hereafter, all foraging must be done without iiring a gun. For the last three days the rattle of musketry has almost equaled skirmishing. In the afternoon we were met by our mounted foragers who went out yesterday morning. They brought in five good horses. We crossed Cedar creek, a deeper stream than Murder creek. The bridge is good. We here passed a Division in camp. We hear the news of the capture of Milledgeville. After a while we went into camp. After quarters were put up we were ordered not to put them up. I wish that the order had reached us sooner, as my tent was frozen stiff'. After supper we rolled up and went two miles farther, and camped about midnight. Night marching is not so hard when, one has had a good supper. We marched, in all, ten miles, to-day, and camped fourteen miles from the State capital. Wednesday, November 23. — We pass through a high, rolling country. Extensive views open up before us. Most of the countr}^ is open; the soil is red, sandy and clayey. The rains cut ditches on the hillsides. Many fields are turned out and overgrown by wild grass and pine trees. The houses are out of repair. The country looks barren. We passed through the farm of Ilowell Cobb, ]:)ut there is nothing attractive about it. Everything that can be, is being destroyed. The negro huts — most miserable hovels — are an exception. We enter Milledgeville and camp, after a four- teen mile march, near the Oconee riv^er. I called to see Colonel Moore's part of the Regiment. They moved over tlie Oconee with the 20th Corps. We had a trood, undisturbed ni to describe in the futuri'. Alter dark wt' returned to our uneonilortable (juarters. This has bcrn a (la\' of gri'at sights, and I ha\e not now time to do justice to tlicm. FuiDW. I )ia'i-:.'Mi!i':K i\. — Allrr sick call was attcndcil to, 1 walked out again into the eit\', in eonipan\' with Dr. FIFTY-EIGJITH INDIANA KEGIMENT. 443 rioltzman. We went down the wharves to tlve ij^as works, and then still on to the ship yard. Ev^erN^thin^ ahout the yard had been destroyed by tire. We then visited the Pulaski monument, which I will describe, in the future, if I have time. We passed along" some tine streets and squares, some ot' which I must describe in my notes, in time to come. We returned to our quarters at ii : 30 a. m. At'ter dinner, I went out into the city, in search of a church, as a place of worship tor my Regiment. I soon tbund that all the churches near us belonged to the colored people, and the^' were all at home. The tirst I came to was a Baptist Church. Several of the people were cleaning it out. Some guards had spent a day or two in it, and had done a little damage to the house. As soon as General Geary was notitied of the fact, he, very properly, put them out. There are three colored Baptist Churches in the city, and all of them are getting along well. There is only one colored Methodist Church — Asbur}^ Chapel. It is against the laws of Georgia to ordain a colored man as a deacon or elder. Now, God Almighty, in His laws, has provided lor this thing. The question is now being settled, whether the State of Georgia or the Almiglity is in command in these parts. There may be some in this city who are not yet sat- isfied as to the result ; I have no doubts, myself. The Meth- odist Church, above named, has seven loci.l preachers, but they had to take a wiiite pastor, from the Georgia Confer- ence, to administer the sacraments amongst them. Now, he has run oti', and they are inquiring what to do. I advised them to send North, and get an ordain^^d colored pastor. He can preside over the church, and gi\'e them a start. 1 am resolved to see them again. While I \ as there, a pomp- ous Captain, h\ the name of Ta\lor, came strutting up, with a design of taking the church for his own use. Wlien told that it was in use as a j')lace of worshij'), he remarked to one of the colonel people that this "thing" must be stopi")ed for a time. Tie imagines that Ca]")tain Ta\l()r is ol" more import- ance than till' worshiji of tlu> Almiglilx'. I ga\i' the negroes 444 CHAPLAIN RIGHT'S HISTORY OF THE a hint, which will save their church from desecration, I hope they will act on it. Saturday, December 24. — Hutchinson's Island is ahout eight miles long and a little over a half mile wide. It is owned by different men : is low and flat, and has often been flooded. At one time, it was covered to the depth of six feet, when there were prevailing winds from the sea. The cultivation of rice is prohibited, as flooding is essential to its growth, and this would render the city unhealthy. P'orty- flve dollars per acre was paid by the city as damages to the owners, on account of this regulation. Yesterday morning the channel, between the city and island, was spanned, by restoring the rebel pontoon. There are three torpedoes, of the old pattern, attached to some kind of a wooden frame, on the other side of the river, near the bank. They do not seem very dangerous, nor do I think they are. This torpedo is of cast iron ; it is about a foot in diameter and two feet in length. On the bottom, which is flat, there is a cross-bar, with holes in the ends, for fastening to a raft or other anchor. The torpedo is a cone, closed everv where, except at the top ; here, there is a two- inch hole. IIow it is charged, or what with, I cannot tell. I am told that there is a torpedo of a later and better pattern. We moved from our disagreeable camp to one but little better. The train was taken over the river and parked on a held below high tide. Companies B and G were placed in camp on Hutchinson's Island, at the end of the pontoon. They are kept ovit of the mud by a large quantity of saw- dust. They have a shed which gives them shelter, in part. Thev have plenty of lumber and shelter tents to complete their camp. Companies A and F camp at this end of the bridge. Their chief embarrassments are "wharf rats," and passers ]-)\-. The remainder of the Regiment is camped here and there, along the wharf, above the pontoon. Most of the officers have houses. Regimental headquarters is at Mr. Dav's, on Indian street. Atter we had gone into these FIFTY-ElGliTII INDIANA REGIMENT. 445 quarters, the officer on provost duty in these parts — Colonel Slaughter, of the 29th Pennsylvania — put a guard across the street, between Colonel Moore and his command. This is another example of "man clothed in a little brief authority," etc. To-day, I resumed my search for a church. I saw a Marine Church, on Bay street. Supposing it unoccupied, I began hunting for authority to preach the gospel there. I called on one of the provost guards, and from him learned who was officer of the ff'^i'ii'd. He sent me to the officer of the day. He went with me to the church. There is a high and heavy iron fence in front. The gates are spiked, the padlocks being lost. We scaled the fence and looked in at the window. It appeared to be a nice church, inside. I determined to continue my pursuit. I went to Colonel Wood, provost marshal of the eastern part of the city. He sent^ me to a Quartermaster, at the Exchange. He had moved his office into a building occupied by a number ot consuls. I went there and obtained the following paper: City of Savannah, Dec. 24, 1S64. Chaplain II. G. Might has permission to use the Mariner's Chapel until required for other purposes. By order "of Brigadier-General J. W. Geary. G. D. PARKER, Captain and Assistant Quartermaster. This is not mv name — I suppose I must have mouthed my words, or else he must have been deat\ As for the signature of the Assistant Qiiartermaster, I have guessed at it. Many officers take a silly pride in signing their names so no one can read them. I suppose it is the same notion that causes boarding-school girls, when very young and tender, to mince their words. After getting this permit, I hunted up the keys. It was some little time before I got on the trail, but, after calling on a number of citizens, I at last succeeded in getting the keys of Mr. Thomaf, or Thompson, who keeps an insur- ance office on the corner of Bay and Bull. I was very courteously treated by Mr. Duncan and Mr, Thompson. 446 CHAPLAIN RIGHT'S HISTOKY OF THE After putting a notice of preaching to-morrow at lo : 30 a. m. , I returned to my quarters. I passed the Puhiski monu- ment, which stands at the intersection of liull and some other street. The sidewalks of these streets, neatly paved with bricks, form a square of aboilt fifty feet. On the center of this stands the monument. There are several other little squares of the same size. The whole constitutes a very pleasant park of shady walks and cherished memories. The monument square is surrounded by an iron fence. On each side there are five panels. Each panel has twelve spears, bound together by four wreaths. The posts are cannons, with ball on muzzle, and a flame above this. The fence is painted green. This is all ver}- beavitiful and appropriate. The guns, the shot, and the spears are emblematic of war — the profession of the gallant dead. The wreath represents the reward of those who perish in the cause of libert3^ The flame and the color of the fence call to our minds the immortalit}^ of the deeds of those who give their lives that man may be free. Within, springing from the green sod, are four bushes wdiose leaves are green in winter, just as time never eflaces the memor^^ of the good. A plain slab of gray limestone, a foot high and perhaps twenty feet square, is the foundation of the monument. On this is laid another of the same material and hight, perhaps seventeen feet square. Next is a base of the same material, about eight or ten feet square and three feet high. Tlie remainder of the monument is of white marble. There are four cannon carved in the four corners of the square, resting on the base. There is no inscription on the eastern or western sides of the square, except, overhead, on citlier side, is the suflicient and expressive words : rULASKI. Over the northern panel there is this inscription in baso- relievo : SAVANNAH, yni OCT., 1779. In the jianel there is a representation of Pulaski reci'iving the mortal wound. lie is mounted on a o-aUant horse, who FIFTY-EIGHTH INDIANA REdlMENT. 147 seems to feel the sad blow that is falling upon tlie cause of liberty. His nostrils are distencled, and every vein is plainly visible. The rider, with uncovered head, turns towards his wound in agony, and yet, tlrmly maintains his seat and holds in a tirni grasp, both reins and sword. With his right hand he holds his sword, and steadies himself by resting it on the horse's hip. His left hand grasps the reins, and presses upon the wound on his thigh. In the southern panel there is this inscription : PUI.ASKI, THE HEROIC POLE, WHO FELL MORTALLY WOUNDED FIGHTING FOR AMERICAN LIBERTY AT THE SIEGE OF SAVANNAH, gTH OCT., 1779. Over these panels, there is, on each side, a spread eagle, resting on the shields of Poland and Georgia, and holding in either talon the olive branch. The insertion of the shield of Georp-ia instead of that of America, for which Pulaski fought and died, is a manifestation of that sectional pride, which has finally led the people of this State to ruin. Above rises a marble shaft, of more than thirty feet. It is square and girted by alternate bands of stars and wreaths. Over all, stands the statute of libert}', by some strange chance, facing the north, the home of liberty. In her left hand she holds the pole, and cap, and wreath. In her right she holds out the wreath, as if to crown with immortalit}^ the hero who, fighting, falls in her cause. The monument must be more than fifty feet high. It is exceedingh^ creditable to all the parties concerned in its planning and execution. It l)ears the imprint of "Robert E. Lunitz, New York, A. D., 1854." At all hours of the dav a crowd of soldiers stand gazing at this monument, not simplv in admiration of it as a splendid work of art, but rather in veneration of him who leit home and country, and forgot his noble birth, to cast his lot with a people few and unknown, struggling for independence. 448 CHAPLAIN HIGHT'S HISTOEY OF THE Tlis death was not in \iuu. His memory shall never be for- i^otten. His example shall be a stimulant to noble deeds while the world stands. Not only this monument, but the numerous towns and counties named after him, attest the protound respect with which he is regarded by the American people. Sunday, December 25. — I had some work this morning, to prepare the Mariners' Church for worship. The gate had to be forced open and the house cleaned. I preached at 10 :30 in the forenoon and at six o'clock in the evening, to small congregations. There is no arrangement for warming or lighting the house. Yesterday, the first number of the Loyal Georgian appeared. I had announced a meeting at the Mariners' Church on the night of the 26th, but an order to move prevented me from attending to it. We left the wharf and went over on Hutchinson's Island ; Colonel Easton, chief commissary, desires all the wharf for rations. He came, drunk, to Companies A and F and told them to move or he would send two thousand men to drive them off. There is more wharf room below the pontoon bridge than can be filled in a month. B^^ that time it is expected that the grand army will be in other parts. Whisky is a great fool maker. The President of the United States should entirely exclude it from the army, except for medical purposes. It was after dark before we got our tents up. The ground is very soft ; a rail thrown upon it shakes the ground for a distance. We got some old hay to keep us out of the mud. The island is very damp. Tuesday, Deckmijkr 27. — Yesterday it rained, but to-day it has been very pleasant. Hutchinson's Island st^ems to improve. The entire Regiment — except Companies W and G, which remained at the end of tlu> jiontoon bridge — labored earnest!}'- all day, putting up quarters. Never has there been so much building done in one day by the 58lh Indiana, The Adjul- FlFTY-EtGIItll INDIANA REGIMENT. 449 ant and myself made a good bunk and laid a pine floor. Fourteen sick men were sent to the hospital in the city. The old members of the 58th were paid to October 31st. Many of the men were sadly in need of money. Some of the money will be sent by express and by private parties, but most by allotment. We have received a general order requiring immediate preparations for another campaign. Saturday, December 31. — Lieutenant Samuel L. Sny- der, of Company K, and forty-eight non-commissioned ofli- cers and men were mustered out of the service of the United States, to-day, on account of expiration of term of service. One man, who is to be mustered out in the North, accom- panied them home. Sunday, January i. — Yesterday an effort was made to throw a pontoon bridge over the other channel of the river, but the effort resulted in a failure. The 3d Division, of the 20th Corps, General Ward commanding, came over on this Island, to cross into South Carolina. In the evening all returned to the city, except one Brigade. Several men were wounded in the attempt. The work has been renewed to-day. Our Regiment has been working all da}^ with more success, as the wind is not blowing to-dav. Troops are moving around on steamers. Monday, JvVnuary 3. — The Regiment has been bus}- all da}', pontooning. After having more than half completed a canvas pontoon over the channel, beyond Hutchinson's Island, they were ordered to place the canvas pontoon in Back river, a channel still beyond. The remainder of the day was spent in carrying out this order, and in making a pontoon of scows beyond this island. The weather is pleas- ant ; the sun is shining. The 3d Division, 20th Corps, is being transported 1)}^ steamers from Savannah to the South Carolina shore. This morning I went up town with Adjutant Behm. We called at the postoffice, in the Government building, known as the custom house. The post oflice is in the lower storj', and is larjje enou"-li for a citv of this size. The ofHce' is ir)() CHAPLAIN HIGHT'S HISTORY OF THE open to the citizens to-day, and stamps, in any quantit}', are tor sale. Mail goes out at five p. m. Corporal Wood worth, Company E, has been detailed to carry our mail. We went to the express office and sent our money North, paying one and one-fourth per cent., and taking all risks ourselves. Bay street extends from Ogeechee canal to the gas works, a distance of about one mile. At the upper end of the street, there are some small streets between it and the river, but, in the main part of the city, it is the lirst street. There is a row of storehouses between it and the river, but the space between these and the river is not dignified by the name of a street. These buildings are "under the bluff," to use the common expression. From the wharf, there are several winding ways for wagons up to Bay street, which have been constructed at great expense. There are great walls of stone, laid in cement, on either side of these streets, and there are also steps for foot passengers. The level of Bay street must be sixty feet above high tide. There is a fine view from the lower end of the street — Hutchinson's and adjoining islands ; the different channels of the Savan- nah ; the South Carolina shore ; the windings of the river ; the steamers Iving at the wharf, and gliding up and down the stream ; the distant torts, with iloating flags ; the schooners sitting quietly on the river, and ocean steamers farther down towards the sea ; the masts of the fleet, lying at anchor around the bend, where the hulls are hid from view ; and, on the right, an endless panorama of low lands and inter- mingled forests. Perhaps, upon this very spot stood the founder of this ancient city, and, looking at the scene of beaut}' at liis feet, beheld, in a vision, the futin"e city, rising in glory on the bluffs and increasing in wealth and renown through endless generations. This ground was certainly made for a magnificent seaport. There are some earthworks at this place, and also a mag- azine, covered by a carpet of grass. A heavy siege gun, lifting high its muzzle towards the sea, stands like a faithful FIFTY-EIGHTH INDIANA REGIMENT. 451 watch dog with eager gaze, ready to "bark" at an}' approaching enemy. At the side of this stands a Hght- house — a lamp post forty feet in hight. This is for our friends — that for our enemies. On the lower end of Ba}^ street, there are some very ancient one-story tVame houses, the roofs of which are cov- ered by a thick, heavy moss. One of them is labeled "Washington Hall." I should judge, from its appearance, and the use of the term "hall," that it was a hotel far back towards revolutionary times. The people residing in these parts are a sorry looking set, chiefly foreigners. The Exchange stands on the left side of the street, and about the center. From the Exchange, Bull street leads off to the south, dividing the city into two districts, the eastern and the western. This street has been the theatre of several magnificent reviews. Kilpatrick's cavalry was advertised to appear to-day, but they failed, lor some reason unknown to the writer. A motly crowd was collected on the street to-day. At the upper end, there were large squads of negroes, in the Government's employ. Along the center, the crowds were composed chieflv of soldiers. Here and there might be seen a spruce naval officer. There was a goodly number of citi- zens, and some ladies. At present, trade is dull, except a few apples and the Savannah Republican — the latter a dime each, and the former "three for fifty cents." Army wagons are almost the only vehicles to be seen. There were man}' horsemen, dashing over the boulders, like Jehu of old. The soldiers are generally ragged and dirty, as they have not drawn a supply of clothing since the campaign began ; and, besides that, they have been doomed to sit over smoky, pitch pine fires. The ofilcers are, many of them, "dressed to kill." The stars of the 20th Corps prevail in numbers and pomposity. The little fellows from "down East" go strut- ting up and down the street, pregnant with their own import- ance and superiority. What a pity there are not more 452 CliAPLAIN liiGIIT'S IttSTOllY OF THE women to smile approvingly npon them. Oh, for the per- fume of cambric handkerchiefs. General Gear^^'s Division does up the provost business. At tirst, thev were very annoying to the whole army, cast- ing o-ood men into prison. But so many complaints have been made that they are growing more moderate. That hateful sound, "Show your pass, sir," is not heard so often. Friday, January 6. — In the afternoon I walked over the bridge between this and the next island, which was com- pleted on last night. I also went over to the South Carolina shore. The bridges are all complete, and a corduroy road is being made over the island. The South Carolina shore is below high tide, and is pro- tected by levees. These lands are devoted to tiie cultivation of rice. The negroes cannot speak English distinctly, neither do they seem to full}' understand what one says to them. The}'- use a foreign twang and speak very rapidly, often repeating "sir." The women were dressed with tlie usual gaudy cotton handkerchiefs, wound about their heads, a good, sub- stantial pad round-a-bout, without fastenings in front ; a cotton dress, reaching halfway between knees and feet, and pants of some kind of cotton stuff; many of them are shoe- less. I did not see many men. These people are allowed one peck of unhulled rice per week, and nothing more. By their extra labor thev usually add something to this. They are very ignorant of the merits of tlie present crisis. Some of the soldiers treat them badly — stealing from them their bedding and scant supply of rice. Saturday, January 7. — I had the pleasure of seeing a review of the 15th Corps, on Bay Street. By chance, I was just coming, at about two p. m., into the street a square from the Exclumge, w^hen the cavalcade, headed by some Generals, came up and took positions just under the portico of the Exchange. Foremost among these is General Sher- man ; he rides a line but quiet horse. His bridle and saddle display quite an amount of brass. lie is tall and slender. ^'IFTY-EIGIITII INDiAXA JlKGlMENT. 4.^^ He wears a Major-General's coat — blue, double-breasted, and two rows, of nine buttons each, placed in sets of three. He wears an old fashioned, "sideboard" shirt collar, the onl}- one, I suppose, in the Army of Georgia. It looks very odd and out of place. His gloves are without gauntlets, ding}' and old. His hat is low crowned, sorry looking, and des- titute of any ornament. When he saw the boys coming he twitched himself this way and that, tugged at his collar, pulled at his coat and made sundry adjustments of his apparel, by way of preparation for the coming ordeal. But he failed to make any improvement in his appearance. He returned the salutations of the Division, Brigade and Regi- mental commanders with a gentle wave of the hand, which seemed to say, "All hail — Avaunt !"• He uncovered his head when saluted by the colors. Amongst others present, was Brigadier-General Williams, a full, fat man, with legs thrust straight out. He wore cla3'bank, corduroy pants, stuffed in big boots, a Brigadier's coat, buttoned to the chin, a private's hat, turned down before and behind, an officer's wreath for a band, yellow belt, fall w^iiskers, liberally mixed with grey, and a face like a dull old doctor, who loves good whisky, with a dis- position to the gout. General Ousterhaus was by the side of General Sherman, managing the review with a lynx eye. At one time, when the column clogged up, he sent an aide with orders for those in front to double quick ; at another time he stormed at a band, "to play on," when they had stopped; and again he charges on the b3'standers crowding within the prescribed limits. He looks like a man of thirty-three. General John A. Logan, who has just returned from home, is also present, on a large grey. He has glossy, coal black hair and mustache. He impresses one as a man of talent. General Howard was present — known to all by being one- armed, and honored for his firmness as a christian. There is nothing peculiar in his dress or appearance to me, at a distance. 454 CHAPLAIN RIGHT'S HISTORY OF THE There were several other Major-Generals, and quite a number of Brigadiers. Most of them are strangers to me. The review impressed me more by recalling the heroic deeds of the past, rather than by present display. As a pageant it was splendid ; the music was good, the marching fine. But I was more impressed by what was wanting than what was present. The thinned ranks, the Regiments com- manded by officers of the line, and the tattered and torn flags, recall the bloody battlefields of Fort Donelson, Shiloh, Corinth, Vicksburg, Chattahoochee, Atlanta, and many others, where as many men died as march by us to-day. If they are on review, to-day, it is before the gallant McPher- son, in the land beyond. The 15th Corps has many equals, and some superiors, on a grand review, but on the battlefield, and in history, it stands unsurpassed. May its banners never wave but in triumph, and may its dead rest in peace. The 1 71)1 Corps has departed to parts unknown — to me. I presume it has gone to Wilmington. Our people seem to have made a failure there, and need help to renew the con- test. Sunday, January 8. — By some mishap, a gate was left open, and we awoke to -find our camp flooded. The water did not cover all the ground, but it put out many fn-es and came into many of the tents. Mail received at ten a. m. It was just two weeks ago, to-day, when the last came. Companies A, F and K moved out to tlie other island. I am much discoiti-aged about my duties. My way seems almost entirely hedged up. How am I to attempt meeting this morning? Three Companies are moving, the camp is flooded, the weather is cold ; many of the men were working last night, and the mail, for the first time in a fortnight, comes just at church time. Were this the only time, I could bear it with ri'signalion. liut this is now happening, time after time. However, I did preach to about a dozen men in the quarters of the mechanics. This was all the service I held during the day. FIFTY-EIGHTH INDIANA rtEGDIKNT. 455 Tuesday, January io. — I made another visit to the city to-day, and took note of some other places of interest. The monument to General Green is on Bull street, one square from Bay, in the city of Savannah. It occupies the centre of Pulaski Square, a shad}^ little park. Clirist's Church and the Pulaski house face the square. It is in the business part of the city. The monument is a plain, square shaft, about fifty feet high. The material is granite. There is no inscription. The foundation was laid, with Masonic honors, by Lafayette, during his visit to this country in 1825. It was not completed until 1832 or '33. It never gave satis- faction to the public. Hence, the work was neglected and no inscription has been put on it. It is, indeed, an unsightly pile of large, square stones, laid one upon another. It resembles more an abutment for a bridge than a memorial of a hero of the Revolution. It was erected by "The Green and Pulaski Monument Lottery Association," chartered by the State of Georgia. This at once accounts for the wretched execution of the work. Just think of covering up rascality with the names of the honored dead, and professing to appropriate the proceeds to the erection of a monument to their memory. How would "The Green and Pulaski Monument Horse Thief Association" sound? What an appeal the lottery could make to the people : "Just send us one dollar, and you will have the noble satisfaction of con- tributing to one of the most sacred and praiseworthy works of art, that ever engaged the attention or animated the hearts of a grateful people, and at the same time may drinv a fi-izc of ffty thousand dollars.''' I would propose this inscrip- tion : ERECTED TO THE MEMORY OF THE GREENHORNS WHO BOUGHT TICKETS AND DREW BLANKS IN THE GREEN MONUMENT ASSOCIATION. 456 CHAPLAI^^ IIlGIIf'S HISTORY OF TitR Forsythe Place is a splendid little park of several acres, at the farther end of Bull street. It is surrounded by a strong, high iron fence. There are many tall, straight pines, and other shrubbery, which gave shade for the walks and green carpet of grass. In the center there is a pool which was once a fountain. In these war times the waters have ceased to flow, and the four old satyrs, from whom the water played in many a fancy jet in other days, are without occupation, naked, and dirt}- as a rebel soldier. Indeed, one of them has turned heels over head into the muddy pool. Thus, Savannah is attempting to wash herself in the muddy pool of her own sins. Chaplain Pepper is a very nice man, and would not oflend the devil, knowinglv. He called on the rebel Methodist pastor in this citv, Parson Wynn. "Brother W3'nn," said Chaplain Pepper, "can I pray for the President of the United States, in your pulpit?" "Oh, brother," said Parson Wynn, "pray for both Gov- ernments." "But," said the Chaplain, "I do not recognize but one." "Well, I am afraid it will olTend some of m}^ people if you pray for President Lincoln, and I prefer that you should not." So, Chaplain Pepper sat behind Parson Wynn and con- cluded with a "good Lord — good devil" prayer, about as- long as one's little finger and about as strong as sage tea. What is Pcfpcr when it has no strength? Wherewith shall it be fcfpcrcd? Thursday, January 12. — The grand sights of this after- noon shall never be blotted from memory. In company with Dr. Holtzman, I attended the grand review of Kilpat- rick's cavalry. It was advertised to take place at twelve m. It must have been about tifleen minutes after this time when we arrived on the ir»"(nind, where an immense throng was already collect(Hl. The crowd continued to increase until the end of the ceremony. About i :30 p. m.. Secretary Stanton drove up to the Exchange in a carriage. He went FIFTY-EIGHTH INDIANA REGIMENT. 457 upstairs, unci soon appeared on the upper floor of the porcli. I had never seen the Honorable Secretar}?- before, and can give no accurate description, at the distance I uas from him. I occupied the outside of the nearest lower story window in the custom house. At two p. m.. General Sherman rode up, and took position, on horseback, in front of the Exchange, fronting towards the street. On his rigiit were the following general officers, in the order named : Brevet Major-Gen- eral Meigs, Q^ M. G. ; Major-Gjn^ral Joh;i A. Dix ; Brig- adier-General E. D. Townsend, A. A. G. ; Major-General John A. Logan ; Brevet Major-General J. C. Davis ; Brig- adier-General Baird ; Brigadier-General Corse. General Meigs, the Qiiartermaster-General, had just arrived from Washington. He presents a line appearance, on horseback. His hat was pulled down in front, and two buttons of his coat were unbuttoned. General Dix, the famous New York Democrat, and the man who wrote "If any man pulls down the American flag, shoot him on the spot," looks like an old man with a 3'oung heart. Brigadier-General Townsend is a thin, spare man. Logan has immovable features, almost without expression. He turns down the upper corners of his double-breasted coat, hiding two buttons, and buttoning the turnover on the lower button of the upper set of three. He seems unmoved by anvthing about him. General Baird has a good name, amongst his troops. He presents a pleasant appearance. At two o'clock the head of the column appeared. Gen- eral Kilpatrick rode a beautiful little horse, well equipped. The General is a little man, and looks young. His head and face are small, and he seems to be a little hunchbacked, and has a fashion of movinor his head downwards. He wore bran new canary gauntlets, and his yellow f^ash looked like it was just out of the shop. His pants were sk^' blue, with golden cord on the outside seam. This cord, huif wu}' below the kneCj widened into two, with an imitation of buttons 458 CIIArLAIN MIGHT'S HISTORY OF THE between. Kilpatrick, blushing, saluted Sherman, passed to the rear, and took position to the left of him. The troops were about forty-five minutes in passing, and they made as good appearance as any mounted troops in the field could. But there were many jaded steeds, and the ranks were much reduced by hard service. Afler all was over, three cheers were given for Secretary of War Stanton, three for General Sherman, three for Pres- dent Lincoln, and so on, until the cheering fizzled, as usual . The 15th Corps is embarking on transports, and going to Beaufort. A forward movement is rumored to take place from this point, in eight or ten da3\s. Saturday, January 14. — Three or four volunteers, as many conscripts, and two or three old members of the Reg- iment, joined us to-da}^. Some of them have been in the late battles in middle Tennessee. Amongst these is Zingu Parks, a boy of thirteen or fourteen, Zingu was recruited in 1862, by Lieutenant-Colonel Embree. General Wood and Colonel Embree were sitting together one day when Zingu passed. The General was attracted by his youthtul appearance, and inquired, "My son, what brought you into the service?" "Two dollars," said Zingu. Sunday, January 15. — I was much surprised this morn- ing when Captain MilbiUMi came into my tent and told me that two men iiad died in our Regimental hospital last night. They are J. Purkiser, of Company C, and Jenkins, of Com- pany E. The former had the measles and the latter the typhoid fever. We buried them this afternoon in lot Num- ber 1,549, ^" Laurel Grove cemetery. We found here the graves of three other men of our Regiment. One was buried yesterday and his name was not on the grave. The other two are (3wen W. Sales, of Company B, died January 3d, and James Rlioades, of K, died January ist. These were all new men, and I was not acquainted with any of them, except Mr. Purkiser. Three died at some hospital in the citv. FIFTY-EIGHTH INDIANA EEGIMENT. 459 Tuesday, Jaxitary 17. — Part of the 20lh Corps passed to-day, and the 14th will follow to-morrow. We are to go to-morrow or next day. Some Regiment is to take charge of our three pontoon bridges over the Savannali. We move on with the tield pontoons. We have many sick and disconsolate men. I-)ratte(i men lose heart quicker than volunteers. Many of them have never heard from home since leaving there, last September. There is shameful neglect somewhere, or we would get more mail. Colonel Buell has been commissioned Brevet Brigadier- General of volunteers, to date trom the 12th inst. He is much better than many w^e already have. No movements of troops about the city, to-da}^ A part, at least, of the 19th Coq^s has arrived here from the Shenan- doah Valle}^ This afternoon, a section of the pontoon was floated around and the gunboat Pontiac, and one transport, went up the river. Thursday, January 19. — Two Divisions of the 15th Corps passed to-dav. The rain began to fall about the mid- dle of the forenoon, and continued until after dark. The road across the second island became impassable and many of the troops had to return. A salute of thirty-nine guns was tired this afternoon, in honor of something — no one in camp knows what. The news of the capture of Fort Fisher came yesterday. It is as fatal to Ben Butler as to the rebels. We have just received orders to march at 9 a. m., to-mor- row. We accompany the 14th Corps on the south bank of the river to Sister's Ferry. Here we crohs the river. This is all I know, certainly, of the movements. Poor South Carolina must suffer now. None of the soldiers are storing up mercy for her. Her deluded people will now reap the full reward of all their foll}^ and crimes. Charleston must soon fall. CHAPTER XXVIII. Leaving Savannah — Marchixc; Through Georgia Quicksands — Stuck in the Mud — At Sister's Ferry — Torpedoes — Preparation for Crossing the River — Difficulties in the Way — A Flooded Country — Pontoons and Perseverance Never Fail — Into South Carolina — No Leniency for THAT Rebellious State — Incidents of the March. WE moved from our camp about nine a. m., Friday, Jan- uary- 20. By order, our huts were left standing. It has been customary to destroy all we could not carry, but this is now wisely reversed. Oar huts will be serviceable to those who take our places. We recrossed the Savannah, and moved out the same road by which we came. When we reached the railroad cross- ing, we marched on the Macon, or, as it is called, the Louis- ville road. Generals Morgan and Carlin preceded the pon- toon train. General Baird moved on the direct road leading up the river. The general impression in the army is that we are begin- ning a campaign against Charleston. The movement on this side of the river is supposed to be a feint. It is gener- ally presumed that the army will concentrate at Branchville. Augusta is a rich prize, and, if it is at all possible, I think it will be captured, en route. It was cloudy in the morning, and the roads were bad, from recent rains. About ten a. m. rain began to fall, and tiirre was but little cessation up to midnight — the h<>ur of my retirement. FIFTY-EIGHTH INDIANA REGIMENT. 461 We moved very slowly, and with difficulty the train could "drag its weary length along." Night overtook us among the mud holes, about live and a half miles from the city. It was designed that we should advance eight miles. Bad roads in this part of Georgia means a verv dil^erent thing from bad roads in Indiana. There we stick in the mud ; here "the bottom falls out," as it is called. Mules and w^agons sink into the quicksand. Nothing but corduroy will remedy these holes. Our officers and men labored all night trving to get the train along. Nearly every saddle mule and many horses fell, plunging the riders headlong into the mud. Many wagon tongues were broken. Officers and men waded to their waists in the slime. Not a few oaths were sworn, and some bad whisky was consumed. In the catalogue of terrible nights, let not this rainy night, amongst the Georgia swamps, with a Pontoon train, be forgotten. Before day, all the train, except a few wagons, was got off the road, about six miles from the cit}^. Lieu- tenant-Colonel Moore's and Major Downe3^'s headquarter wagons went a mile farther and stopped in a muddy, pine woods. At seven I found a shed in which there were many strag- glers from our Regiment. Here, I remained until near midnight. The soldiers gave me coffee and crackers ; for on such an occasion, they are better ofT than officers. The officers came often to this shed to rally the men for duty, but as they took no steps to enforce their orders, many of the men remained. Saturday, January 21. — The rain was not falling when I arose at day, but the waters were still upon the face of the earth. Lieutenant Colonel Moore received orders from General Davis, informing him that the march liad been suspended on account of the weather, and directed him to go into camp as near Gene-ral Carlin as possible. As there was dr}-, sandy ground a mile back, where most of the train had stopped, he sent us thither. We got there about noon and 462 CHAPLAIN HIGHT'S HISTORY OF THE the remainder of the day was spent in tixing up quarters. As the weather does not seem to improve, we expect to remain here several days. We hear that between the freshet and the cutting of dykes, by the rebels, the central column, composed of the 20th and half of the 15th Corps, is being compelled to return to Savannah. Some wagons are being washed away and mules drowned. I fear this will thwart our General's plans for some days. We received some letters this morning — the lirst in answer to letters sent North from Savannah. In one letter, received by me, came the informa- tion that a young relative of mine, who was cap- tured in the McCook raid, has joined the rebel army. His motive was to escape the rigor of imprisonment. If he succeeds in escaping from the rebels to our lines, there may be the end of the matter. But if he is captured he may be hung. The experiment is dan- gerous, and sinful — almost beyond pardon. Better die and rot, as many noble men have done, than swear allegiance to the sinking cause of the enemies of the country. On the day before ^^esterday we heard of the capture of Fort Fisher, the key to Wilminjrton. Ben Butler said it f'?'! i'*.' DR. S. E. Hol,T/.MAX.* * Dr. Holtzman was commissioned as Additional Assistant Surgeon of the Regiment bv Governor Morton, in 1862, and joined tlie Regiment after tlie battle of Shiloh. He was promoted to Assistant Surgeon, and served some tiine on detached service. March 26, 1864, he was made Surgeon, and served with the Regiment imtil its muster out. After the war, he returned to his old home at Bloomington, and resumed the practice of medicine. He afterward removed to Pontiac, Illinois, where he established lilmself in a good practice, and where he still lives. FIFTY-EIGHTH INDIANA REGIMENT. 463 could not be taken. I am no General, but I knew it could, and so expressed myself in my letters. Now it has fallen, but no lower than Mr. Ben Butler. I wish he were here, to rule Savannah, as he is a splendid Provost Marshal, though a poor General. Tuesday, January 24. — I spent all day reading the numerous stray papers which came in last evening's mail. Most of these were for loth Indiana men, now out of the service. After a hasty reading, they were distributed among the Companies. Our hopes for a few days' rest were blasted, by an order, which came in the evening, to march in the morning at seven. More letters were written to-day than during any day, since leaving the Chattahoochee. Wednesday, January 25. — Reveille at five ; marched at eight. For several miles, the road was. a causew^ay, with some bad places, on account of recent rains. Here and there, the roads had been improved by corduroying — some of it recently made. After several miles, the roads were good. Passing Eden, we came into a desperate swamp, and broke down in it, and camped just at nightfall. Morgan's and Carlin's Divisions are in front, and only the reserve artillery of the 14th Corps in the rear. We saw but few people, in our march to-day, and they were poor enough to disarm all hatred, had we borne them any. One family was about moving to Savannah, where alms were more plentiful. At another house, a woman sat shivering by the mule pen, guarding the last mule. The old man trembled with the palsy. A young man, thinly clad, stood shivering, while an armless sleeve told a tale of rebel service, which I did not feel at liberty to draw from his lips by Yankee questions. No people reside in any of these parts, save the poor. As for slaves, there never w^ere many, and still fewer now. The houses were few, and far between. Tliey are made of nice pine poles, stripped of their bark. The chimneys are made ivfter a pattern common in these parts — of sticks and 464 CHAPLAIN HIGHT'S HISTOEY OF THE mud. They are much inferior, and not so safe or durable as the stick chimneys in tlie North. Just as the head of the train reached a little run, near Eden, we heard, near by, a dozen or more fhots, in rapid succession, followed by shouts. This was an infallible indi- cation of the presence of the enemy, but no effort was made to get our men into line. Such things always agonize me almost beyond endurance. This is not the tirst time tiiat I have seen such unpardonable slowness. A moment more, and an orderly came galloping down the road, reporting the rebels "right up here." Had the}^ been disposed to attack the train, the}^ would have been upon us in a minute, and the Regiment would not have been in line. As soon as the Order!}' presented his report, some attempted to form a line, and some tried to load their guns. A part of the officers were very prompt, while some were as dull as stumps ; they were not afraid, they weren't. But there was hurrying to and fro. The new conscripts at length formed an indiffer- ent line ; skirmishers were sent forward ; the train was ordered to park, and Captain Smith was ordered to defend it with four Companies. It proved, in the end, that a bat- tery post master had wandered a little from the main road, and had been tired on by a squad of six rebels. When he ran, they hallooed, and then scampered off. Such is the battle of Eden. Thursday, January 26. — We left the main road, 3'ester- day, at Eden, and did not regain it to-day. We wound about through the swamp, where much of the road was almost impassable. General Buell's Brigade spent the after- noon making corduroy. We marched about six miles, which was as far as we could go. We camped in a sand field, about three miles before reaching Springtield. In the afternoon, while several Companies were cutting small pine trees for corduroy, one fell on Thomas Feeler, of C(jmpanv 11, and broke an arm and a leg. It is a wonder more accidents of tliis kind do not happi-n. The soldiers are very careless. When a trei^ is cut, warning is seldom l^IFTY-EtGItTH INDIANA REGIMENT. U% given until it begins to fall. It is considered great fun, to make the men scatter and run. And then, man}- soldiers will hardh' attempt to get out of the way of a tailing tree. Some permit it to brush them, and some stand behind a tree while it strikes the other side. The woods are usually full of men, and there is a clatter of a hundred axes. Trees are fiilling here and there, and men are busy carrying out the cuts. It is a wonder more men are not killed. We followed General Mortjan's Division this mornino;, and passed Carlin's and l^aird's Divisions near Springiield. When we started, we hoped to reach Sister's Ferry, on the Savannah, by night. But we soon came to a dead lock, and lay for a long time by the roadside. There was a stream ahead which defied the passage of the trains. We marched about tour miles, to-day, through a better country than yesterday. There were several swamp creeks, some plantations, and the ruins of a village. Springfield is the seat of justice for Effingham county. The court house is a two-stor}^ frame. There were but few houses in the place before we came ; there are fewer now. The weather is clear and cold, with a sharp wind blowing. The lire runs through the wood in all directions, burning the leaves. After spending most of the day at the creek above named, the pontoons were moved forward, with a design of putting down some balk and chess to make a bridp:e. But General Davis ordered none of the material to be placed in the stream. We then went to camp, and the men went to work. Poles and logs are cut and piled one upon another, until they rise above the surface of the water, and at ten p. m. the treacherous road is completed. After four miles travel, on Saturday, January 28, we came to the river road, on which we had advanced to Savannah. It must have been five miles above Ebenezer creek, and about thirty from Savannah. We turned into this road, and went two miles farther, to Sister's Ferry, where we went into camp, on the bluft', by the river side. At this point, the bluff is 466 CHAPLAIN MIGHT'S HISTORY OF THE about seventy-five feet above high water mark, and there is a gap in it, made bv a ravine. Here is the ferry road — a deep cut, now full of brush, concealing torpedoes. The South Carolina shore is low. The river is now very high, and the other shore is overflown. The rebels have a long line of works there, but the water is up to the top of the port holes. The prospect of pontooning such a flood is not flat- tering. The gunboat Pontine lies anchored under the bluft'. Sunday, January 29. — This is the day I was to have preached on intemperance. But I am not prepared, and must, therefore, decline. Having been smoked all week b}' pine fires, I have been unable to even collect a few poor thoughts. I am sorry of this. Whisky rations are issued to our men, and many of them are going to the dogs. I would that I had the power to issue a general order, exclud- ing this vile stuff' from the army. At present, all my labor seems to be in vain. My way is hedged up ; what am I to do? May God help me to do something. I preached a sermon which I had prepared last Sabbath. The mornings was' cold and the attendance small. The work of the Lord is under par, and His servant is neglected. When will a brighter day dawn? May God send it soon. About twelve m. the men were put to work. A large detail began digging a new approach. "I had rather," said General Slocum, "work the entire command two weeks than have one man killed by the torpedoes." This is a noble sentiment. The putting in of pontoons was delayed by unloading two transports, which came up with forage. At dark, the work began in earnest, and the bridge was completed in the course of the night. Ward's Division, of the 20th Corps, is on the other side of the river. The 14th Corps and Geary's Division are on this side. One other Division of the 20th, and some of the 15th Corps are also said to be on this side. FIFTY-EIGHTH INDIANA REGIMENT. 46 1 Monday, January 30. — The roads are being cleared and prepared on the other side of the riv^er. It is almost impos- sible to. get out to the main land on the South Carolina side, on account of the flood. The water is falling to-day. The road on the other side is full of water. We learn some new ideas almost every day in road making. To-day, in certain places, where the water is deep, a causeway is made of brush and poles, above the surface of the water, for the infantry to cross. Several transports came up, loaded with supplies. We have no mail coming in, but it goes out regularly. We hear that some of Hood's men have reached Augusta. It is probable that the rebels will make a stand at or near Branchville, South Carolina. Many of the planters above here are so firmly convinced that our army will cross into South Carolina, that they are sending their corn and other valuables across into Georgia. An expedition v^ill go some miles up on this side to get some of this corn. Supplies are now landed on this side at a point just below the pontoon. A wharf and a road are being made on the other side. I learn that nearly all the negroes, abandoned by General J. C. Davis, at Ebenezer, by the good providence of God, passed over the stream. A few were drowned. A few were captured by the rebels, unmercifully whipped, and sent back into slavery. Such would have been the fate of all had the will of Jeft' Davis anything to do with it. A Sergeant of the 79th Pennsylvania, while engaged, about ten a. m., to-day, a mile up the river, on the other side, in clearing up the road, stepped upon and exploded a torpedo. It was buried under the road. Our people knew nothing of its existence. The Sergeant had his left leg torn oft' below the knee, requiring amputation above the knee. At the same time, another soldier was dangerously injured. The men were removed to their Division hospital by Doctor Holtzman. After this explosion our men began searching for the torpedoes. They removed some twent}' or more. Their presence is indicated by a peg by the roadside, just 4.68 CHAPLAIN IIKHIT'S HISTORV OF THE opposite the torpedo, with a number on it. The torpedoes usually have the appearance of an ordinary shell. They are buried under the road and entirely concealed from view. They are connected with the surface by a tin tube, a few inches long, and about two inches in diameter. When the dirt is removed from the top they present the appearance of the lid of a five-cent blacking box, with the hollowed side down. A Captain stepped on one, to-day, and slipped ; he lifted his foot, and lo, a torpedo. It was removed and found to be spoiled. Otherwise, he would have been blown into eternity.' Amongst the pins removed was one num- bered "tift}^" so we may presume^ that most of them are still undiscovered. What is the remedy ? We should get a detail of rebel prisoners and make a chain gang of them — officers are pre- ferable. Let them remove all they can find, then, let them draw heavy wagons before the advance of our army. This will efiectually cure the rebels. They w^ill soon become tired of blowing up their own people. It is their privilege to put tlie torpedoes in and ours to make them take them out. I have been sadly mistaken in our conscripts. I had sup- posed that as a class thev would be better men than volun- teers. I supposed that many men of standing, whose families or business did not permit them to volunteer, would be drafted. All in all, I tiiought there would be fewer wild young men amongst the drafted people. True enougli, there are many good, substantial citizens, but the mass of the conscripts are below par. We have amongst them deserters from the rebel arm}'-, refugees from the South, bounty jumpers, men who have been in the army before and "played out" of the service, shirks, butternuts and sub- stitutes, many of whom are the scrapings of society. The three hundred added to this Regiment, together with the whisky I'ations, have demorah/tHl this command to a shame- ful extent. I no where meet the encouragement I once did. But few of the elements of the old 58th Indiana remain, and I seem destined to outlive my usefulness in the Regiment. FIFTY-EIGHTH INDIANA REGIMENT. 4(19 All this, tempts me sorely to return to private life at the end of my term of service — March 5th, 1865. There is more profanity and card playing in the Regiment than ever before. There is fiddling and dancing even on Sunday evening. Several cargoes of sutler's goods have been brought up the river to this point. Apples are sold at $2.00 per dozen ; potatoes at ^13.00 per barrel ; butter if i.oo per povmd. The road is not yet prepared for the passage of the army. Friday, February 3. — The river has been steadily fall- ing, and it is now about ten feet lower than when we tirst came here. The road was completed over the swamps and bayous, beyond the Savannah this afternoon. Kilpatrick's cavalry Division began crossing at two p. m. and continued until late at night. The crossing of the army was completed on the morning of February 5th. We will now follow on and will again be cut otT from our base of supplies. I anticipate a spirited and successful campaign. Battles may be fought and defeat may result to our army. But I anticipate only victory in the end. The Confederacy is on the decline. I believe that by next autumn the war will be over. May God grant an early and successful termination of this deadly struggle of iVeedom against slavery. Monday, February 6. — Remained in camp all day, expecting orders to take up the bridge and go on. Only the 34th Illinois and five Companies of the 58th are here. Our people are very circumspect. A few rebels came near our skirmish line, yesterday and to-day, being led by the inevi- table man on the grey horse. They only desired to know whether the Yankees were gone or not. Call again, gentle- men. After dark, the long expected orders came, to take up the bridge and go to tlie landing on the other side. It is two miles above here. Immediately opposite here is a swamp, and directly opposite the landing above, there is a swamp on this side. 470 CHAPLAIN HIGHT'S HISTORY OF THE Our baggage wagons pulled over first, and went on up the road, along the river bank, through the swamp. Some rain had fallen during the day, and the bridge and corduroy was very slick. In all my travels I never saw such a road. I was compelled to lead my horse, and it is a wonder the army ever got through such a place. It was only half-past ten o'clock p. m. when myself and the front of the train reached camp. The rear did not arrive until 5 :30 next morning. The officers and men had an arduous time taking up the bridge. Early on the morning of the seventh, there was hurrying to and fro, preparatory to our departure. Orders came to lighten our baggage. Our wagons are ordered to haul all the forage they can. A part of the supply train is left with Captain Tousey, A. C. S., to get rations. This is what the army has been waiting here tor, during the last day or two. We march after the reserve artillery of the 14th Corps, at seven a. m. There is a growth of scrubby oaks about Sister's Ferry, on the South Carolina side. The soil is sandy. We marched out through a swamp. Here, in addition to gum and cypress, there are numerous pines. The road is made by cutting, parallel, two ditches, about fifteen feet apart, and throwing the dirt together. There is very little in this land for man or beast. About one o'clock we came to Brighton, St. Peter's Parish, Beaufort district. The village has nearly all been burned. A sign post stands yet in the center of the village with a board marked, "To Orangeville, 76 miles." There are about two dwelling houses remaining. The air is chilly and damp. I stopped by the embers of a building destroyed by fire and eat my dinner, which I had put in my saddle bags the day we came to the Savannah river. It had kept well, for it was bacon and crackers. Very unexpectedly to me, our train stopped and went into camp about the ruins ot the village. Our tents were soon up, and we were com- FIFTY-EIGHTH INDIANA REGIMENT. 4-71 fortable. Abundance of clear water was obtained from a well in camp. This is a rare circumstance in a soldier's experience. Wells seldom afford sufficient water for the many soldiers that collect around them. It is equally rare to see a pump, or any facility for drawing water. In fact, at this season of the year, and in this country, the brooks give us more palatable water than the wells. The soldiers are not anno^-ed by the thought that there may be a dead cow a mile down the stream from which he is drinking. Indeed, dead horses and mules above do not injure the water. At Chattanooga, last spring, we drank iVom below hundreds of them, and the water was just as sweet as that which came from above these carcasses. It is difficult to corrupt the waters of the great Tennessee. Many things which people taste and smell only exist in their imagination. Wednesday, February 8. — We marched this morning at seven o'clock. Companies A and F, with a short train, moved with the light column, composed of Baird's Division, on the main Augusta road. The remainder of the trains and Carlin's Division went on the Orangeburg road. Mor- gan's Division is back at Sister's Ferry, with the supply trains, awaiting steamers with rations. Our progress was very slow to-day. Our road led through the swamps. We came to many quicksands, made worse by recent rains. The pine is almost the only growth. Here and there was a miserable plantation, where, in other days, the poor inhabitant eked out the struggle of pride and pov- erty. How hard it must have been trying to keep up chiv- alric dignity on such poor dirt. "St. Peter's Parish, Beau- fort District, South Carolina," sounds ver}' large in print. But, when you come to look at it, it is ver^^ flat and much of it under water. When these swamps are drained the soil soon filters through the sand. We camped, in the afternoon, at Lawtonville. This was a small villiage, now all gone but the church and a hut or two. The church is a large frame structure, painted white. I did not visit it or learn to what denomination it belonged. 472 CHAPLAIN RIGHT'S HISTORY OF THE Thursday, February 9. — Wc marched at nine o'clock, following Carlin's Division. Our supply train joins us, hav- ing obtained rations and the mail. We marched north eight miles, to Beach Branch Baptist Church. This stands at a noted cross roads, and near Beach Branch Swamp. It is a frame house, near the roadside, and unfenced. Just across the road is the cemetery, or "gar- den," as it is called on a tomb. This is surrounded by a jilank fence. Tiiere are but few graves here and still fewer stones. The largest is in memory of a Baptist preacher by the name of Webb, who, in days long gone, probably dis- coursed the words of life through the various associations amongst the swamps. Thus far, the road has been good, and the country the best this side of the river. We are still in the sandy, pine land. In illustration of the strait to which the chivalry are coming, a soldier told me about seeing an old planter, whose house had been burned, and who is now living in the negro quarters, gathering up a few sweet potatoes thrown away by the much despised Yankees. His feelings must have been akin to those of the widow of old, who was gathering up two sticks, preparator}- to baking her cake and dying. Whether the Good Being will bless and preserve these people here, as he did her, remains to be seen. We are marching on the trail of Kilpatrick's cavahy. Though the}^ passed several days since, and a heavy rain has intervened, the trail is not yet cold. Many of the houses are still burning. Amongst the tales of the camp is one that "Kill," as lie is familarly called, tilled all his boys' saddle- bags with matches, before leaving Savannah. Nearly all the dwelling houses along our route were burned before we come up. Here and there can be seen two or more magnif- icent two-story chimneys, left standing to tell the story of departed joys. Terrible are the judgments of the Most IIi we i?'^'"^ ^^ Charleston? Is something {he matter on ahead? At tlie cross roads, we mo\'ed to the left. The general direction is FIFTY-EIGHTH INDIANA KEGIMENT. 477 north. Country barren — white sand, looking like snow ; beautiful little bushes, resembling pine ; cross Congaree creek at Clark's Mill, the owner of which is said to be a Union man. Rebels are plentiful hereabouts. We camped at Boozer's Cross-roads, one and a half miles from Lexing- ton C. H., at four p. m., having journe3^ed twelve miles to-day. The assembly- sounded in many camps, just after we got in, and Morgan's Division moves on. Thursday, February i6, — Ready to march at six. Orders came to divide the train. Colonel Moore and Cap- tain McDonald go with the right wing, and half of the train accompanies the 14th Corps. Major Downey marches to the right with the remainder. We came, in a little wa}^ on the camp of the 20th Corps. While the Adjutant has gone to report to General Williams, I notice, with admiration, the promptness, precision, and soldierly bearing ot the men of this Corps. In these respects they out-shine all the Corps of this army. Hence, in a great measure, the jealousy of the 14th Corps. The Adjutant soon returned and we moved on slowly. There were some rebels in front. We seemed to be going directly to Columbia. Our Battalion is received with marked courtes};- by the officers and men of the Corps. Diligent inquir^^ is made into the wants and desires of the Major. Men are offered in such numbers as he desires for guards or mule foragers. A place well up in the column is assigned to the train. After marching through a poor country for live miles, we camp, about two p. m. There was evidently some change in the programme. Knowing nothing, rumor supplies the place. It is said Columbia is evacuated and Colonel Moore is to come up with his section and we will bridge the Con- garee, which is too wide for half the bridge. The Colonel is on a left hand road, a mile or so from us. Some of our boys were out there foraging this afternoon. We had just gone to bed, expecting an undisturbed night's rest, when marching orders came, at eight p. m. We 478 CHArLAIN HIGHT'S HISTORY OF THE moved down the Columbia roads, about two miles. We then turned northwest. We rejoined Colonel Moore, after a march of seven miles, at Zion's Church, on the Saluda river, at one a.m. There was a nearer road through. I do not know '^vhy it was not traveled. We had been passing through sand pine and stunted oak land. But during the night the soil grew solid beneath our tread, the sand disappears, we came to rocks, and the dick- ering lights revealed new^ species of trees. A part of the wa}' was lonesome, and to us, uncertain, as there had been considerable skirmish- ing yesterday. When we came to Colonel Moore's camp, we were very coldh' received. No- body got up to show^ us a place to camp. "Any- where" is the Colonel's usual camping place ; so we groped about in the dark, and finally settled down on the stones, which covered the hard ground. But a harder fate than this awaited Companies B and (j. They are sent directly on to General Howard, with twelve sections of pontoon — 120 feet. Friday, Fichruarv 17. — The order of march for this morning is Carlin's Division, Morgan's Division, baggage of troops, reserve artillerv, ist Michigan Engineers and Mechanics, lastly, the battalion of Pontoniers. The Pon- UEV. Wit. [CV KNOW Lies,* Private Company A. * Was mustered in at Camp Gibson, and served vvitli his Company until the battle of Stone River, where he was severely wounded. On this account he svas discharjjcd, April 22, 1S63, and returned home. Since the war, he has turned his attention to the ministry', and after some years remoxed to the Pacific Coast. 1 [e is now residini;- at Newman. California, and is actively eni^ai,'ed in the Master's work, FIFTY-EIGHTH INDIANA REGIMENT. 479 toniers were Major Downey's party. We passed Zion's Church, near the river bank. An old citizen near here began a wonderful bellowing and pra3ang over some mis- fortune befalling him. General J. C. Davis, who was on his porch, made him hush, and told him to think himself fortunate that his house was not burned. At the river we saw genuine mud, which we had not seen before for many a day. We had met much quicksand, but here is genuine clay mud. The river is two hundred and fifty feet wide. There are twent3'-one boats in the bridge. Colonel Moore's battalion laid it. An army wagon had turned over from the bridge into the water and some of the mules had been drowned. The wagon is still in the edge of the stream. The Saluda is a mud bottomed stream, with mud banks and muddy water. I looked in vain for the picturesque. CHAPTER XXIX. Carolina Campaign Continued — Lexington District — An Abundance of Forage — War's Desolation — Thoughtless Destruction — Crossing Broad River Under Difficulties — Bad Generalship — At Wins- BORO — Columbia — Charleston Evacuated — Gen- eral Sherman — Officers of 14TH Corps — A Roast FOR General Davis — Crossing the Catawba — Dis- aster TO THE Pontoon Bridge — The Boy that Stood on the Bridge — In North Carolina — Fay- etteville — Events Crowding upon Events. WE moved out through a very muddv bottom road, but soon reached higher ground. We came into a high, rolHng country, which has a good soil, laid upon a substantial base of red cla^^ This portion of Lexington District is superior to any part of South Carolina yet visited by us. We expected to pass over the neck of land to Broad river. But it soon became evident that we were to strike that river higher up. We came to a land of plenty. The troops and trains could not use the thousands of bushels of corn and hundreds of stacks of fodder. The wagons are all loaded. The men get plenty of bacon, poultry, and other eatables. Many houses are given to the flames. Sometimes, not only the whites, but the blacks are burned out, b}^ accident or otherwise. Manv are houseless to-night. Thousands of bushels of corn, in roaring heaps, are burned bv thoughtless soldiers. This will cause suffering amongst the stock of the many trains yet to come. The winds began to rise. The fires spread in many places. Sometimes, the world seemed FIFTY-EIGHTH INDIANA REGIMENT. 481 to be on fire. We were almost stifled by smoke and flames. Oh, that the planters of Lexington District had considered what they were doing when they invited war, to desolate their land. Men will persist in foolishly imagining that there is some way of making war simply on armed men. It cannot be done successfully. The fields and houses, the women and children, always suffer. It cannot be other- wise in war ; therefore let all people labor for peace. When they invite war, they invite pestilence, fire, famine, flood and death in all its most horrible forms. No land can pros- per save in times of peace. When we came to the Fleshley's Mill road, Carlin's Division continues on up the river, for the purpose of destroying the railroad between Columbia and Abbeyville. Morgan's Division moves to Fleshley's Mill on Broad river. The trains park on a hill, about the middle of the afternoon. Here, we remain until near dark. In the meantime. Major Downe}^ and Lieutenant Wood go forward to see the place where the pontoon is to be. It was dark when we got started again, and we were behind every- body, although we were expected to make the bridge over which the others cross. The roads were very bad for four miles to the river. The reserve artillery detained us until one a. m. We passed a pine deadening, through which the fire had been carried by the winds, during the day. It was now splendidly illuminated. We had supper at two a. m. Moving a Pontoon train in the rear of all things, on the day a bridge is desired, is an exhibition of folly ; but only such as is common with weak men, like General J. C. Davis. Then there is talk of "the unaccountable delay of the pontoons," and all such stuff'. Poor little Davis, he expects to march in triumph over Broad river in the morning. Yet he keeps the Pontoon train back until near morning. But he is not the only Jeff' Davis doomed b}^ foil}" to disappointed hopes. Our men who had traveled nearly all last night, who had carried their heavy burdens eighteen miles, to-day, who had tramped over the hills, and rolled wagons through the mud. 482 CHAPLAIN KIGHT'S HISTORY OF THE who were stung by the injustice of requiring them to do impossibiHties, are required to work all night. But I have already trespassed on to-morrow. I must cease m}^ writing under this date. I will add one statement. The stock of the train is almost worn out by heavy loads, night traveling and bad treatment. Saturday, February i8. — There was no bridge, at day- light this morning — in fact, there are not enough boats to make one. The river is six hundred and forty feet wide. General Sherman has played oft' on the left wing. If we had our twelve sections here, which were sent with Com- panies B and G to General Howard, we could complete this bridge. Sherman favors the right wing ; Slocum favors the 20th Corps. There are some things which a blind man can see. Fleshley's mill is torn down, to furnish balk and chess for the bridge. Generals Davis and Morgan came down, to help matters on. They fume around no little; they hurry men and officers ; they hurry in boat after boat, and urge up the work. They never seem to consider that after all the boats are in there will be still two hundred feet unbridged. They hurry away building a piece of a bridge, and never seem to ask themselves what good all their hurry will accom- plish. Nothing is done towards making the last two hun- dred feet. If thev had exerted themselves to prepare some kind of material for the last two hundred feet, they might have at least made a little exhibition of sense. Our people could not do anything more than they were doing. We had only one Company of Pontoniers — F — and they, and all our men present, had been up two nights. To tear down houses, and cut and haul poles from the woods, and make a bridge over a swift-running stream, is no small task, to men who have been up two nights in succession. The men were fall- ing asleep continually, the moment they had any relief from duty ; and they necessarily felt dull and stupid all the time. Yet the Generals were hurrying, iun'rying, all the time. Many were tiie reflections they cast at the officers and men. FIFTY-EIGHTH INDIANA REGIMENT. 483 The Pontoniers are in great disrepute to-dav. Generals Davis and Morgan are well convinced of their inefficiency.* This has been a day of vexation. All the army is waiting on the pontoon, and the pontoon, having not been made of India rubber, cannot be stretched two hundred feet longer than it is. We must await the coming of Captain Smith or Colonel Moore, or make a trestle bridge. Generals Davis and Morgan busied themselves about what could have been better done in their absence ; and at nightfall went to their quarters. Davis ordered Major Downey to put his men to work immediately, and complete the bridge, by making two hundred feet of trestle, by morning. Why did he not do this, by some other party, dviring the day? Is the man crazy? Our men had been up for two nights in succession, and had worked hard for many days. Now the}^ are ordered to work the third night ; and, more than this, the work can- not be done in a night. It cannot be completed before Col- onel Moore will get here, and then tlie trestles will be in the way. Major Downey, like a sensible man, went to bed, and paid no attention to the foolish and unreasonable order of General Davis, I feared, at the time, that we might suffer for this. Sunday, February 19. — I forgot to say, under the date of yesterda}^, that it was then generally known that Cheat- ham's Confederate Corps was fording Broad river, above us. We cut them oft' from Columbia, and crowded them from the railroad bridge above here. They are endeavoring to con- centrate, with the rebels from various parts, in our front. Colonel Moore came last night. Ten more boats were put in, and the bridge is done ^y daylight this morning. The 14th Corps crossed by day, and Kilpatrick's cavahy is crossing to-night. * How difl'erent the opinion entertained by ^^ajor-Ge^c^al George II. Thomas, commanding the Department of the Cumberhmd. In his report of operations of the army under his command, tVom September 7, 1S64, to Jan- uary 20, 1865. he says: "I would here remariv that the splendid pontoon train properly belonging to my command, with its trained corps of Pontoniers, was absent, with General Sherman." 484 CHAPLAIN HIGHT'S HISTORY OF THE We had no meeting to-day, although we lay in camp. The men were tired and sleepy, and there was constant con- fusion, made by passing troops. An order, of which I had nev^er heard, had been issued, some time since, from Sherman's headquarters, confining the use of wall tents to one for the headquarters of a Brigade or Division, and none to a Regiment. A circular is sent around, calling attention to the disobedience of this, and requiring compliance. It is also ordered that the trains be lightened as much as possible. In consequence of this, there was a great destruction of baggage in our train. Many old pieces of canvas, etc., were burned, but the tents ordered to be destroyed were usually hid in the wagons. This was the case in our camp. The allowance of tents is very limited, and they are very light. It is a very poor plan to burn tents — it takes but little from the loads, and much from the con- venience and comfort of camp. At the very time orders are issued to destroy tents, there are hundreds of pounds of old and useless articles hauled by teamsters, guards, and others. Men in this train are hauling tobacco by the box, for pur- poses of speculation. Monday, February 20. — The 14th Corps crossed yester- day, Kilpatrick's cavalry last night, and the 20th Corps to-day. Fleshley's mill is a large, frame building, and near it is a cotton press. When we came here, there was a sup- ply of corn, wheat, and cotton. Broad river resembles the French Broad, save there is no mountain scenery here. The stream spreads out to a great widtli, flows gently and smoothly along, and has many islands. Our pontoon is six hundred and fort}'- feet long. Cheatham commenced fording the riv^er above here, on Saturday, and now has the start of us. Some of our men have been in his camp — I mean column. All ideas of going to Cliarleston have now vanished. We have prevailing rumors of going to Bull's Bay, Newburn, and Wilmington. None of us know certainly as to our des- tination. FIFTY-EIGHTH INDIANA REGIMENT. 485 At six p. m., the last of the army had crossed, the small- pox train being in the rear. It took two and a half hours to take up the bridge. We were supported by five Regiments of infantry and four guns — pretty good backing. At nine p. m. we marched to Little river, where there was a long delay, on account of the steep hill. While awaiting the coming of the train, we sat shivering about little lires. We passed a negro who had the small-pox, lying in a fence corner. We always have this disease along. We now came to solid roads, of reddish brown soil. The country appeared to be open and cultivated, and the soil seemed good. The timber was of a better quality than usual. Many fences were burning, as we went marching along. Midnight found us still upon the move. Tuesday, February 21. — We reached the camp of the 20th Corps, after a march often miles, just as reveille was sounding, at four a. m. It was broad day light when we camped, after marching all night. I lay down, but slept none. I was fearful that we would lose our place in the column, after marching all night to gain it. Only those who have tried.it know the difference between marching near the front and in the rear. We stopped for breakfast, near the twenty-third mile post from Columbia, and the eleventh from Winsboro. At eight a. m. we moved otT, with the 20th Corps, on the Winsboro road. We passed through a hilly countr}^ The soil is thin, resting on red clay. The land is very solid, and better than common for South Carolina. Chaplain John McCrae, of the 33d Indiana, used to live in the5e parts. He visited his old neighbors and neighbor- hood, and Ibund the people in a very sad plight. He had not the heart to go to see all his acquaintances. Soldiers were everywhere, pillaging. Our men are robbing all the houses as we pass along. Not so many houses are burned as formerly, for all are tiring of the work. Orders are against house burning, or robbing, save for edibles. 486 CHAPLAIN HIGHT'S HISTORY OF THE We came into a region where there were many magnifi- cent granite boulders, which can be easily split into slabs, convenient for building purposes. The people make free use of these, except that I saw none used in house building. We passed Black Jack Baptist Church, a dingy old frame building, enlarged, at some time past, by adding a side shed. It is as it was thirty 3'ears ago, when Chaplain McCrae used to preach in it. Near this is the Furman University, a brick building of three or four stories, and a most unsightly pile. It is without fence, or ornaments of an}^ kind, and the glass of the windows is broken. The building is now used for a receptacle of "tax in kind." It contained onl}^ cotton and fodder, to-day. The men took the fodder for the teams, but left the cotton. The Furmans are great men, among the South Carolina Baptists. The 14th and 20th Corps moved on Winsboro, by roads which came together just at the edge of the village. The foratfers and bummers of each command preceded the col- umns, and entered upon indiscriminate plunder of the vil- lage. General Gearv, commandinij the advance Division of the 20th Corps, arrested them, and took their forage from them, which gave great offense to the 14th Corps. The 20th Corps entered Winsboro in great pomp — ban- ners unfurled, and music by the bands. The 14th Corps left the town to the right. We found a pleasant town, but most of the people were gone. A few houses had been fired b}- the bummers, but the flames were extinguished by the advance guard, and provost guards were put on dutv. We moved on tlirough the town, and camped, three miles out on the Rocky Mount road, having marched thirteen and a half miles, and camping before night. General Sherman joined us at Winsboro. The rebels are continually massing in our front, and a bat- tle may be fought before many days. Wednesday, Feuruary 22. — The orders, which were given yesterday, to divide the train, were countermanded, and we marched with the 20th Corps, on the Rocky Mount FIFTY-EIGHTH INDIANA REGIMENT. 4«7 road, only one Division and short train being in advance of us. The 14th Corps moves up the raih'oad, to destroy it, and make a demonstration on Chestertovvn and the upper fords of the Catawba. House robbing has become universal. I do not mean all the men rob houses, but all the houses are robbed. Burning forage has become so frequent that it has become necessary to put on guards, to save the stock following in rear of the army from starving. We are not only playing smash with the enem}^ but also cutting off our own supplies. In the regions about Columbia and Winsboro, many valuables, sent from Charleston for safety, were found, and appropriated by the finders. Rocky Mount is a rough ridge, about two hundred and fifty feet high, forming a bank for the Catawba. At four p. m. we reached the river, which is a rapid, clear stream, dashing over innumerable rocks. It was with diffi- culty that a sufficient depth of water to lay the pontoons could be found. There are high hills on either side, form- ing, perhaps, the most difficult approaches of any river yet bridged by us. When we reached the river, none of our men were on the other shore, and the enemy was momen- tarily expected to dispute the passage. The pontoon is rap- idly pushed, until completed, and a Brigade moves over and secures the crossing. Our Generals declare that they have outwitted the rebels. While they were looking for us above, on the usually traveled route, our army came suddenly here, and secured this ford. The rijjht wins: is crossing some- where below. When we first came to the river, General Williams was very anxious to get a few men over, "to keep oft' Cowans and eavesdroppers," as he expressed it. These were soon followed by the Brigade named above. Thursday, February 23. — We remained in camp while the 20th Corps was crossing. General Sherman came up, and stopped a while in our camp, talking freely to some of the soldiers. He informed them of the fall of Charleston, and told them that he knew that "they" (the Charleston- 4Hi! CHAPLAIN RIGHT'S HISTORY OF THE ians) "couldn't stand when you boys were coming up liere." Taking up some Carolina beans, he asked the men how long they cooked them. When they told him, he said, "You can make money by cooking these beans an hour and a halt'." He inquired ol' the soldiers how these compared with the regular arm}' bean ; when they said they were inferior, he replied, "That's what I thought. But we must forage off the country, even if the supplies are not so good." The boys were much pleased to have the General make himself so common among them, and speak words of encouragement. Sherman is very popular, among his officers and men. He is a man of brilliant genius, and those in his army can best appreciate the strategy of his movements, which he is con- stantl}^ making. The General has but a small staff, and a slender escort, and has few tents. He goes about quietly, making much less pomp than becomes his position. There are pretty well authenticated rumors that some of our foragers have been put to death by the rebels. Some steps have been taken towards retaliation, by our people — I am not informed of their nature. "War is no child's play." Oar people drive in all the cattle in the country, and shoot such as cannot travel. They are the most miserable stock I have ever seen. The largest are but little larger than dogs, and all are mere shadows. Affairs seem to be culminating towards a great battle in eastern North Carolina, or northwestern South Carolina. In all probabilit}', all the rebel armies will come together, and there will be one grand battle, decisive of the fate of the Confederacy. I took a walk about the ferry. On this side may be seen the ruins of a canal, built, perhaps, in early times, around the rapids. On the top of the hill beyond there is a singular tomb, strongly enclosed by stone pillars and an iron fence. It began raining early, and increased towards night. The passage of the army is delayed because of the rough- ness of the approaches. Indeed, there seems to be no hurry. Many troops might have crossed last night. Gen- FIFTY-EIGHTH INDIANA EEGIMENT. 489 eral Williams, commander 20th Corps, and Captain Whittle- sey, his Qi;artermaster, are on hands at the end ot the bridge, pushing over the trains. Friday, February 24. — The cavalry completed their crossing last night. The 20th Corps resumed and finished by II :30. There was nothing then to cross except the 14th Corps. The right wing is crossing somewhere about Cam- den. The rain is falling and it is no easy task to get the trains up the hill on the other side. General Morgan takes the place of General Williams, and Captain Remington that of Captain Whittlesey. Morgan commands 2d Division, 14th Corps. He wears a glazed cap and an anxious face, to-day. He is always plainly dressed and carries his hands behind him. He has some kind of a nervous twitching which he attempts to conceal in this way. He has the appearance of a modest, retiring, unassuming man. Manv a joke is perpetrated at the expense of Jimmy Morgan, but I believe him to be a good officer. I cannot learn anything definite of his origin. Some one told me that he was for- nTerly an ice packer, at Qiiincy, Ills., and came out as Colonel of a Regiment from that State. By dark only the 2d Division baggage and ist Division supply train were over. It was still raining and the river is rising, yet all hands quit and go to bed. The stream may soon become impassable. There is a marked inefficiency amongst manv of the officers of the 14th Corps, which stands out in paintul con- trast with the 20th Corps. Captain Remington, Chief Assistant Qiuirtermaster, wears a broad brim hat, appar- ently picked up in the country. There are none such now in the market, or worn by decent people. His boots are old and rough. His pants are such as are issued to common soldiers, perhaps "left on hand" at some issue and hence cost nothing. His coat is old. This plainness of dress is not caused b}^ poverty — then one could respect it. It is not caused by the nature of his labors, for when he has nothing to do but ride along it is the same. The Government pays 490 CHAPLAIN RIGHT'S HISTORY OF THE him a large salary, and requires, among other things, that he should wear a certain kind of dress ; this is in part what he is paid for. Still, out of a sordid, mean, and avaricious spirit, he wraps himself in "cast off clouts." Just as we might expect, he has no refinement of language or manners. He swears in an}^ company. He is always ascribing the very worst of motives to his fellow men. He feels no interest "in king or country." He is a poor Quartermaster. He seems to be without care. He was one of the dirty tools of Jeff Davis, who stood at Ebenezer creek and kept inno- cent poor people from crossing. He seemed to think that turning women and children back to slavery, suffering and death, was humanity. When the work was done, he declared that it was the hardest dav's work he had ever done, and that long since he had called on General Davis to perform this act of humanit}^ Davis, himself, is a t3'rant. In the march one day there was a narrow place in the road ; it was blocked up by a wagon, and a man on a mule. The latter was coming to meet General Davis, who wished to send an orderly for some purpose. The man on the mule could not get out of the way, Davis swears he can, and without wait- ing for things to untangle, which they would in a moment, he kicks the mule, which falls and throws its rider. The orderly is now made to jump his horse over man and mule. There are many excellent ofllcers in the 14th Corps, and the men are as good as an}-. But the Corps is mismanaged, and a spirit of jealousy has possCvSsed the command. Sati:rday, February 25. — It is raining hard, this morn- ing. The river is rising and the waves are becoming w'ild and impetuous. The bridge is extended at each end. Too much time was consumed by this. Crossing was not com- menced until two p. m. The steep approach, just at the end of the bridge, has been overcome by the rise. The bridge heaves like a ship in a storm, liallast is placed on the lower ends of the boats. The water threatens to sweep away the bridge. No great effort is made to secure the bridge or hurr\' over tiie trains. The latter move slowly until dark FIFTY-EIGHTH INDIANA REGIMENT. 4!>1 and then ceases. The pontoon trembles and heaves ; the waves dash madly against the sides and over the chess. Deeply impressed with the great misfortune that threatened us, and stung by the shocking dullness of those in charge, I walked over the bridge and about camp until late. I then lay down, but could not sleep, as I knew that all the army might have been over. We usuall}^ cross within two days — we have been here three. There are difficulties, but they might have been overcome. The bridge might have been made secure. I lay asleep until midnight. There came a loud crash, and tlien the tidings, "the bridge is gone." The Pontoniers were on the bridge at the time it gave way. Those who could, rushed to the shore. What became of the others they could not tell. Nor could it be discovered how many boats were gone, amid the darkness of the night. As the crisis was over, I fell asleep. Sunday, February 26. — Daylight revealed twelve boats gone. No one had been lost. Bob Steel, of Company K, was the last one to rush from the bridge to shore. Some wags. in camp composed a parody on the occasion, some- what as follows : THE B02' STOOD OX THE PONTOON BRIDGE. The boy stood on the pontoon bridge. Whence all but him had fled; The waves dashed madly on the boats Which trembled 'neath his tread. They wrapped the bridge in waters wild, They tore the balk and chess, Dragged the anchors, snapped the ropes — And made a perfect mess. Then came a burst of thunder sound — The boy! Oh I where do we "diskivcr;" Ask of the waves, which far around With fragments strew the river. Racksticks, frames, and can\as fair, That had ever been strong and stout; But the noblest thing that perished there Would have liecn tliat boy — if he hadn't run out. 492 CHAPLAIN HIGHT'S HISTORY OF THE This hasty version mav not bear the criticism of poets, but it will do for Pontoniers. There is some plain prose about our present situation. We are in the presence of an enemy, and our army is divided. We have only two Divisions on this side, and the rebels have a railroad from Richmond to our rear. If they do not improve this opportunity they are blind. The spirit of the Pontoniers is "can't.'' The debris of the bridge is taken from the stream, and General Davis gives orders to attempt nothing farther. The army "hangs fire" at the Catawba. Monday, February 27. — Adjutant Marshall, of the 51st Indiana, was captured during the famous Streight raid. He has remained in "durance vile" from that time to the present. x'Vt one time he escaped as far as Northern Georgia, but was brought back. He escaped again, recenth', and has been staying some days with us. We had ten wagons captured to-day, in a most disgrace- ful manner. They were out foraging. The Lieutenant and guards deserted them, save Doades, of Company I, who desired to do his duty. We might have recaptured them, but "can't" rules the day. General Buell was sent tor, to lay a new bridge. River swift. Smooth bottom. Generally said to be impossible. Sherman orders guns spiked, wagons burned, horses and mules swam, and men brought over some wa}'. Army in deplorable plight. Bridge commenced in old place. Mate- rial taken down to a place thought to be more favorable. Water terribly swift. Not enough ropes or anchors. Latter wont stick. Amid the sneers of many, General Buell pushes on the work. Anchors are made of the forks of trees. Hundreds of fifth chains are collected from the trains. Great stones sink the wooden ancliors. The work goes bravely on. liy eleven p. m. the bridge is done. Perse- verance has triumphed over "can't." Our guns and trains are saved. Disgrace to Sherman's army is prevented. This is one of the magniticent triumphs of the war. It FIFTY-EIGHTH INDIANA REGIMENT. 493 almost equals the damming of Red river to save our fleet. I told some of the boys that here was a lesson for young men. Tuesday, February 28. — Crossing continued during the remainder of the night and until completed, at 3:30 p. m. The rebels are pressing on the rear. I remained all day a spectator of the crossing. The 69th Ohio are rear guards. Rebels come up in sight on the other side, and there is bang- ing. The rebels were mounted, and made a brisk attack, but our men hold their ground, and taking up the bridge goes on all night. Our camp is about a mile from where it was last night. The night's work was dreadful on the men, many of them having been up for several successive nights. The mud, here, is ahead of anything I have ever seen in my warfare ; it is almost impossible to get the wagons up the hills ; and when up, the horses and mules sink in almost up to their bodies. It is impossible to ride, or even walk, through many places. We have no feed for the stock, and but little for the men. "Hard times" are here. Wednesday, March i. — We are committed to the charge of General Buell and his Brigade. This is humiliating to our officers ; but we have so completely played out that we cannot complain much. We certainly need a guardian. General Buell's Brigade is the rear of the army, and we are behind it. There is a short small-pox train about a quarter of a mile behind us. Our general direction is east. We were warned of a few rebels on the right, and arrangements were made accord- ingly ; but we did not see them. Almost all the road is cor- duroyed. Whole Divisions and Corps are engaged in the work. The land is desolate. Fences are thrown into the road for corduroy ; many houses are burned ; nothing eatable for man or beast is left. The 20th, 17th and 14th Corps are ahead of us. We marched tifteen miles, and camped, at eight p. m., near Hanging Rock. It was then after dark. Men and mules are entirely worked out. 494 CHAPLAIN HKiHT'S HISTORY OF THE We are now on Revolutionary grounds. The battle of Camden was fought not far from here. Hanging Rock, which I did not see, is famous as the place where General Marion captured some British officers while playing cards. During our march next day (March 2) we passed over some horrible roads and some desolate country. We only advanced ten miles, but it took all day and parfc of the night to make it. March 3, we crossed Flat Creek, passing through Tixiho, or Hickory postoffice. We came to a place eighteen miles from Lancaster, and twenty-seven by one road and twenty- eight by another, to Camden, and twent3r-eight to Chester- field. We went the latter road. We are on a forced march. Camped two miles bcvond Big Lynch, after dark. Ordered on to save us trom capture, or something else. Stopped from 7 :30 to nine o'clock to feed, and then marched on, over good roads, to Carlin's camp, at Blakner's cross-roads — seventeen miles in all, reaching there by twelve, midnight. Some of the bummers were captured by rebels to-day. We have rumors of the capture of Petersburg, Wilmington, and Richmond. Saturday, March 4. — To-day, we moved in advance of Carlin's ist Division. It is rare for us to go in advance of anvthing. The rebels are posted about our place in the column and are hovering on the flanks, attempting the cap- ture of the pontoon. General Wheeler made a dash on the road yesterday, between the ist and 2d Divisions. Early in the afternoon a column of rebel cavalry was seen passing toward our rear, on the left. There was sharp musketry and cannonading a mile or two to our left, where Kilpat- rick's and Wheeler's forces were engaged. Moved east on the Chesterfield road to Mt. Grougan ; we then turned north and took the Ilailey's Ferry road, stop- ping one hour for dinner by the way. Roads pretty good until we neared Thompson's creek. Here we had to abandon Miles Ragsdale's ambulance, as it turned over, and we could get it no fartlier. FIFTY-EIGHTH INDIANA REGIMENT. 495 Soon after crossing Thompson's creek we enter North Carolina. The soldiers all say that they will not destroy property here as they did in South Carolina ; accordingly house burning ceases. About eight p. m. we camped in Anson County, North Carolina, about ten miles from the Great Pedee, famous in the times of Marion. The distance marched to-day is seventeen miles. Sunday, March 5. — We marched early, over good roads, along the State line, ten miles to Pagues' Ferry, about eight miles above Cheraw ; arriving there at twelve m. We hnd the Pedee about nine hundred feet wide and eight feet deep. As we only have eight hundred feet of boats the question comes up, "How can the stream be bridged?" The remainder of the day was spent in an attempt to give a prac- tical solution to this problem. There is cannonading, explosions and tires at Cheraw. We hear of the capture of guns, small arms, and materials of war. Some of the pontoon materials were sent up to us. We received some oars, anchors and ropes. Monday, March 6. — The construction of the bridge goes on slowly, as almost insurmountable difficulties must be overcome. Says Morgan to Buell : "This work goes on slowly: I have people who could do it sooner." Buell: " You had better do it then." Morgan : "I know nothing about it." Buell: "Then I would say nothing." Two pontoons are made by stretching tents over wagon beds. Two trestles are put in, the ends being sunk with stones. At last, after thirty-six hours of arduous and thank- less labor, the bridge is completed, after a manner. Kil- patrick's command commences to cross at five o'clock p. m. Tuesday, March 7. — As the 20th Corps went to Cheraw to cross, we have only the cavalry and the 14111 Corps to cross here. There is trouble with the pontoons during the day. The wagon bed pontoons, invented by Jimmy Morgan, sink, and one had to be removed and a trestle made in its place. Davis curses our officers for imbecility. Buell 496 CHAPLAIN HIGHT'S HISTOEY OF THE relieved unci moves on with his Division, which now takes the advance. Carlin's Division is over by eleven a. m. Baird comes next, and is over by 3 :30 p. m. Morgan's Division and train is over by dark. The front of our train reached camp, about one mile from the river, at ten p. m. The Regiment worked all night. It is a thankless job to be Pontoniers. After connection was severed with the other shore three men came and called for a boat. They repre- sented themselves as belonging to the 2d Division, of the 20th Corps. They plead long and vigorously for a boat to be sent over. But when they found that no attention was paid to them, they tired on our men, and no more was heard of them. They may have been rebels, but our men did not return the fire. There was a semi-idiotic boy in Company F, sent out last fall, b}^ some mean man in Indiana, and with the connivance of other men, to save himself from the draft. This boy had not sense enough to take care of his food or clothing. He was lacking in sufhcient vigor to stand the service, and has dragged out a miserable existence, until to-day, when he died, in the ambulance. We brought the body over the Pedee, and buried him, about ten or eleven p. m. A grave was dug, evergreens were thrown on the bottom ; he was then laid in and covered with evergreens, and, on these the soil was laid. The moon's mild light gave a peculiar sadness to the scenes as we offered prayers about his grave. A high crime was committed by those who sent this boy to the army. There are too many such cases. Our good people are too good to trust their hides in battle. Wednesday, March 8. — The advance troops are to strain every nerve until Cape Fear river is reached. One of the questions discussed by us, is, will communications be opened when we reach there? A rumor reached General Sherman, when we were on the Pedee, that our men were already at Fayetteville. Marching this morning at seven, we mox-ed, at first, ^'ery slowly. As \\'e ha\'e received iKly good mules trom FIFTY-EIGHTH INDIANA REGIMENT. 497 each Corps — 20th and i6th — our teams are much improved. Our men had come over the Pedee and collected a large quantity of forage, and Lieutenant McMahan had started a mill on Mark creek. For eight or ten miles we passed through a splendid country. We passed New Hope M. E. Church in the Pagues neighborhood. We cross Mark creek and turn north, towards Rockingham. We then turn east and enter a banner pine country. It is an almost endless turpentine orchard. Rained hard all day. Camped at 9:15 p. m., after a march of twenty-four miles. This is very hard on men who were up all last night. The men who slept last night were asleep to-night, when oiu" boys got in. Thursday, March g. — We were all made glad by an order this morning to report to tlie 20th Corps, which camped in the same place we did. We moved in the rear of the Corps — 2d Division being in our immediate front. Began raining in the afternoon and continued until night. About dark we got into a quicksand swamp. Here, the front of the column camps at 6:30, the rear at ten. Horses, and mules fall, w^agons sink to the hub. Lee sends a dispatch to Wheeler, to hold Sherman in check at all hazards. Wheeler replies, that he cannot even hold the "bummers" in check. Sherman, riding one day at the head of the column, came to a fork in the road. After looking about a tew moments he took the right hand road. The "bummers," coming up a few minutes after, took the left. When Sherman saw this, he came over to the left-hand road and fell in behind the bummers. Such are the stories afloat about the bummers. Some of them have been captured and killed during the last few days. We marched through swamps and over bad roads, next day (March loth) covering a distance often miles. Early next morning (March iith) when we came within eleven miles of Fayetteville, we struck a good plank road. The people might have such, everywhere in these parts, as pines cover the land. All the 14th Corps has passed on. 498 CHAPLAIN HIGRf'S HISTOEY OF THE We moved east nine miles and camped two miles from the river. Marched eighteen miles. It was late at night when we stopped. There was no wood about camp. The bum- mers had taken the town at ten a. m. ; eight were killed. Sunday, March 12. — Marched at eight o'clock; moving down the principal street of the town. The splendid United States arsenal — which makes the town all it is — stands on the right. Little, or no injury, had been done to the town. We moved within a quarter of a mile of an old bridge which was burned yesterday. Rebels are said to be on the other side. Our guns lire over at them. Went down to see, and learned that a little tug had just come in, opening communications with Wilmington. This is the first com- munication since leaving Sister's Ferry. Saw some bo3'S of the 13th Indiana, who had come up in a tug. I could not get any papers, but the boys told us that Lincoln had been re-inaugurated ; Schofield had landed at the mouth of Cape Fear river ; Wilmington was captured and our troops were now moving towards Goldsboro. Orders came around that we could send mail out at three p. m., and ever^doody went to writing, so that by the appointed hour a large number of letters were written. These will be the tirst letters received from Sherman's army for a long time. Our people make a bridge of seventeen boats — three hun- dred and fifty feet ; Buell ordered by Davis to superintend, but does not get there in time ; place, just below the old bridge. We captured a nice yawl, and might have gotten several more. Several old steamers were burned. The bummers captured an old steamer loaded with baled fodder. The Army of the Tennessee pontoon is laid one-half mile below us. Favetteville is finely fortified, especially beyond the river. The rebel army was all here, and went ofl' on the Raleigh road, and is now just over on the other side of the river. We had a little prayer meeting at night. After this was over, Morgan's Division came drumming down street, the FIFTY-EIGHTH INDIANA REGIMENT. 499 first troops to cross. The bridge was completed at three p. m., and it was now eight p. m. Our people are slow to commence crossing, but atterwhile get in a great hurry. As I knew the rebels were on the other side, I went over with Morgan's men, thinking that they would stir the rebels. But the Johnnies know what they are about. They quietly withdraw, and give the Yankees room. There are some items of interest about Fayetteville, which would bear repetition, if I had time to collect them. This was formerly Cross Creek, and is an old Scotch settlement, as the names on the tombstones indicate. It was here that Flora McDonald lived. This is the head of navigation on Cape Fear river ; there is slack-water navigation to the Deep river country above here, and there is a railroad to Egypt, on Deep river. Here are extensive coal fields, which sup- plied the blockade runners from Wilmington. Many heavy supplies were sent trom here to Egypt. There are man}' cotton factories here ; they were burned this afternoon, after giving their contents to the poor. The proprietors offered to give all the proceeds to the poor, if they were spared ; but Sherman wisel}^ determined to destroy them. They burned beautifully in the evening shades. I visited the U. S. Arsenal — an institution designed as a Southern pet. Cannons are being dismantled, and injured all that is possible, and thrown into cisterns and wells. Walls are being leveled by the ist Michigan Engineers and Mechanics. In the end, all that is combustible is to be given to the flames. Private property is being respected and guarded. Per- haps the people of Fayetteville will not be so anxious for the next war. I hope our Government will never rebuild this, or any other public edifice, that has been seized by the people. Colonel M. C. Hunter is Provost Marshal for the town. There is some beautiful scenery here. Tuesday, March 14. — The destruction of tlie arsenal and cotton factories happened to-day, instead of yesterday. Troops continue to cross all day. 500 CHAPLAIN HIGRf'S HISTORY OF THE Wednesday, March 15. — Kilpatrick has orders to use the bridge when he chooses. lie "chooses" to use it now, thus cutting oH' the 15th Corps train, and hindering the Pon- toon train. But he is over by twelve m., and we follow. We have had beautiful weather, during our stay at Fayette- ville. No mail or supplies have reached us from Wilming- ton, but our wagons are ordered to remain for some expected supplies. When we came here, we did not know^ but the campaign was ended. The general impression now is that we will go on to Goldsboro. We move on with all the spare material, leaving Captain McDonald to bring up that in the river. Night came upon us marching. We were on the Raleigh plank road, travel- ing north of east. Midnight found us still attempting to travel in the swamp, as w^e had turned off the plank road. We found quicksands and mud holes, innumerable. Roads almost impassable. Still we pressed foolishly on. The woods were on fire in some places, and many burning trees fell. I attempted to get a nap of sleep, occasionally ; but as horse stealing was the order of the night, I could not indulge much. Captain Smith's saddle was taken, while he was holding the halter. We worried along all night, making about three miles, when we should have been in camp. Day, at length, dawned on our weary command. We pulled two miles farther, to Gen- eral Geary's camp, reaching there at eight a. m., March 16. The troops were already off, and the trains were moving. Our mules had not been fed, watered, nor unharnessed, since yesterday morning ; they were now fed and watered, with the harness on. Most of the troops have moved on the Raleigh plank road, spoken of above. The 20th and 14th trains are on this road, guarded by Geary and Baird. In three miles, we come to Black river, which we crossed on a trestle bridge, with a cor- duroy floor. Moved three and a half miles farther to camp, making a march of ten miles by nine p. m. There were many rumors when we got to camp. The rebels were FIFTY-EIGHTH INDIANA EEGDIENT. 501 reported 30,000 strong in our immediate front. Tliey had attacked the 15th Corps, and been repulsed. A battle may happen to-morrow. We have various rumors of fighting to-day, and fighting to be. Friday, March 17. — The 15th Corps, which joined us on the right, moved out a short distance and camped. Gen- eral Geary's Division, and all the trains of the 20th Corps, including the Pontoon train, remained in camp all day, which aiibrded us a good rest. Fighting, to-day, on Ral- eigh plank road ; four Divisions of the 14th and 20th Corps are there. The 17th Corps is on the right. Just before night, the remainder of our Pontoon train came up. Fifteen hundred boxes of hard bread, which arrived at Fayetteville, after we left, was brought up for the army. Saturday, March 18. — Ready to march at six. Geary rides by the train, and swears because the mules are not har- nessed. He assigns us a place farther in the rear. Moved northeast, across the headwaters of the Little Cohera. Camped at eight p. m, after an eight miles march, at Raner's Mills. Forage and rations are found in greater quantities. Sunday, March 19. — We are preceded this morning by the 15th Corps. All troops in light marching order. Fod- der, corn, bacon and sweet potatoes are plentiful. Cannon- ading in front. Rumor sa3^s Goldsboro is ours. Camped at eight p. m., after a march often miles, at Pleasant Union Church, Sampson county, North Carolina. Rumors of war thicken. None of us expect to reach the new base without a battle. Many of us are anticipating a concentration of the rebel armies in our front, but none anticipate any danger. When the worst comes, we can retreat in safety to Wilming- ton. But the rebels cannot cause this, unless they evacuate Richmond; and, when they do this, we have gained our point, and can afford to fall back to Wilmington. Monday, March 20. — A staff" officer came to our tent at one a. m., and said there had been a battle, yesterday, on the left, the ist and 2d Divisions of the 14th Corps, and the 1st and 3d Divisions of the 20th Corps being engaged. We 502 CHAPLAIN RIGHT'S HISTORY OF THE lost three guns, and the rebels held their own. The 15th Corps is in our advance, and Generals Geary and Baird had gone, with two Brigades, each, of their Divisions. "To-mor- row," said the officer, "may usher in the day of dreadful things." He came for men to relieve the pickets withdrawn. Our people made several blunders. The pickets did not get to their proper posts until daylight. I lay awake several hours, thinking about the probable contest. Our men are not well prepared — the supply of rations is too small, and wc haven't enough ammunition for more than one or two days' big lighting. Soon after day, we moved all the trains into a large, open tarm, to the right of Pleasant Union Church, and began entrenching. We hear rumors of the near approach of the enemy, but no tidings from the great battle which was to be. We hear various rumors of yesterday's fight. There is but little cannonading to-day. The work of entrenching went bravely on, until one p. m., when orders came to move on to Goldsboro. We moved slowly, through a three-mile swamp, and, after going about five miles, we camped, in a field of deep sand, near Dick Raynard's Mill, in Wayne county, North Carolina. Rumor says our people hold Goldsboro and Cox's Bridge. Tuesday, March 21. — Marched at six, and were pre- ceded by a small baggage train and the ist Michigan Engin- eers. Our march was delayed by a miserable man trap, at Falling creek, where we remained an hour or more. The great military problem now begins to unravel, to the delight of every sokHer. We come on to General Terry's column from Wilmington. We are coming out of the wilderness, thank (jod. It is principal! v tlie 25th Corps (colored troops) passing. They are splendidly equipped, and march in good order, in marked contrast to Sherman's troops. Some of our people were a little disposed to twit the negroes, but, get- ting as good as they sent, they soon hush. You can say anything you please to an unarmed negro ; but when you commence on a colored soldier, he will "answer a fool according to his folly" — and the fool cannot help himself. FIFTY-EIGHTH INDIANA REGIMENT. 503 Our men almost universally commend the soldierly appear- ance of the colored troops. The 20th Corps trains stop, and go to making hospitals. We are ordered to go on, and report to General Terry, at Cox's Bridge. Cannonading, and continuous roar of mus- ketry, towards Bentonville. We receive the impression that an extensive engagement is going on ; but I have no fears of the result. After considerable delay, caused by General Terrv's train, which does not understand the art of getting over bad roads, we report to General Terry, who is repre- sented as a model man. We reached Cox's Bridge just at dark, and find that the bridge has been destroyed. A Brig- ade of colored troops is encamped on this side of the river. We camp in the midst of the rain and darkness. The Pon- toniers are called out, and soon have a bridge of twelve boats — two hundred and fifty feet — across the river. There was no hindrance or difiiculty encountered, though the enemy was on the other side. The colored troops, not understand- ing matters, did not send over a force of men to protect our men during the construction of the bridge. Colonel Moore did not name the matter, as he thought some one would sup- pose that he was afraid to lay the bridge. After the bridge was completed, the colored Brigade crossed. Heavy cannonading continued until late at night — I believe, all night. Wednesday, March 22. — Cannonading continued until daylight, and then ceased entirely. We found the timber inuch cut by shot and shell. The negro troops are fortify- ing, using paddles, for want of entrenching tools. We have rumors that the rebels have gone from the front, where the fighting has been. It is also said that our people captured five hundred feet of pontoons. Our lines beyond the river are extended and strengthened by additional entrenchments. The rebels have a mounted force near; and, by wearing our uniform, they have suc- ceeded in capturing several of our men, when they came upon them. Among these is Baker, a German, who says, 504* CHAPLAIN RIGHT'S HISTORY OF THE "If all der men in dis Regiment would hang togeder as I do, the officers would have h — 1 ! " Thursday, March 23. — General Order, No. 35, from General Sherman, announcing the defeat of the enemy, was read to the command. It also stated that the campaign was ended. So the 14th and 20th Corps cross the bridges and move on towards Goldsboro. We are to remain here until General Terry re-crosses his troops, when we are to go to Goldsboro. We had more foragers captured to-day. Friday, March 24. — The early part of the day was dull and drew its weary length heavily along. The 14th and 20th Corps are all over. Nothing seems to be going on. The negro troops are quietly camped within their entrench- ments on the other side. Our boys are growing impatient to take up the bridge and be oft'. During the forenoon there was an occasional musket shot in advance of our lines. About noon there were several distant cannon shots. I went out into the woods, shortly after, to meditate on a ser- mon that I designed preaching in the evening. There were, by this time, occasional volleys of musketry, and an increase in the cannonading. As the four Corps of Sherman were all gone to Goldsboro, and Schotield's troops had come no nearer, Terry's command of a Division or two was exposed to the onsets of the whole rebel army. General Order No. 35 will not prevent the rebels from making an attack. We are nine miles from Goldsboro. What the rebels are able to do at all, they are able to do before an}^ reinforcements can come up. I would not be surprised at an attack made on us here at any time. Tlie musketr}^ continued to increase, with an occasional lull. About four o'clock it broke out in great fury, nearer than ever. The rebels opened with their guns from a nearer point. The rebels were operating against our lines, in front of our works. Thus far our guns were silent. The uproar of battle increased, and several shells fell within the works beyond the river. One shot plunged through our works there. Another fell just upon the other bank. Now they FIFTY-EIGHTH INDIANA REGIMENT. 505 are coming over to our side. Whiz, goes one over the camp. Crash, goes another, amongst the timber, over our heads. Another and another, fly here and there. The shrill assembly calls the 58th Indiana once more into line of battle. The uproar of battle increases. Some cheers are heard, indicating the earnestness of the combatants. In our camp, there was the usual rattle of ramrods and snapping of caps. The tattered banners were unfurled and men stood ready for action. Louder, nearer came the tide of battle. Couriers and staff' officers were hurrying to and fro. Still our cannon were silent. I expected ever}^ moment to hear the rebels charge on our entrenchments. Then showers of musket balls would fall about our camp. There is now nobody between us and the rebels, except the colored troops, and six guns, manned by white men. On came the rebels. The auspicious moment had come. Our hne, brass Napoleons are rolled out, and bang ! bang ! bang ! went their reports. This ijun makes a most infernal noise. Immediatelv, the rebels began to draw off. Soon all was silent. All waited for the renewal, and for an assault on the works. But it was not renewed. Perhaps they were making a reconnoisance preparatory to a thorough attack in the morning. Mean- time, the busy ax and spades pile up the breastworks, trom behind which death is to be meted out to the rebels. When dark came, the troops were crossed to this side, and we moved about one mile and camped. The bridges were taken up. It was a late hour when all reached camp. CHAPTER XXX. At Goldshoro — Close of a Campaign full of Exciting E\"ENTs — Some Severe Fighting — In Communica- tion WITH Home and Friends Once More — Pre- paring for the Final Campaign — News of the Fall of Richmond — Lee's Surrender — Great Rejoicing — Moving on Toward Johnson's Army — Now for a Completion of the Work of Crushing the Rebellion. AFTER a dav of anxietv and excitement, and a night of wearv watchinor, the soldiers were not in the best con- dition tor t'urther dutv. on the morning of March 25th. But the orders came to move to Goldsboro, thirteen miles dis- tant, and we were soon on the road. We arrived at our destination about twelve o'clock, and camped to the right of the artillerv of the 14th Corps. Here, we met the 23d Corps, who had come around by the way of Wilmington ; we had not seen them since leaving Atlanta, and it was a jovous reunion of old triends. Here, also, we received the largest mail that ever came to the Regiment. It is a great satisfaction to be in communication with home and tViends once more. General Sherman issued an order for a general re-organi- za'.ion of the armv, preparatory to another campaign, and, as it appears now. the tinal campaign of the war. While at Goldsboro our Pontoon train was repaired and recruited. We made new balk and chess, repaired the can- FIFTY-EIGHTH INDIANA KEGIMENT. 507 vas, and received an addition of twenty wagons with twenty sections of bridging. The work of preparation for another campaign was vigorously pushed all along the line. Our orders are, to be ready to march by April loth. GoLDSBORO, April 6. — This has been a dav of wonder- ful excitement in camp. General Sherman, this morning, received several telegrams from Major-General Carl Schurz, and others, at Xewbern, stating that Petersburg and Richmond were captured, with five hundred guns and 25,000 prisoners. During almost the entire forenoon this news was being read to the several Reg- iments. All believe, and each Regiment gives three cheers. Great hilarity and excitement was produced by this news. The noise continued all day. In the evening the bands phu'ed the National airs, and at night there was great freedom in the explosion of gun powder. The great question every- where asked, is, "How long do you think the war will last now?" There are different opinions on this question. I indulge a hope that by the time the leaves fall, next autumn, the slaveholders' rebellion will be over. Friday, April 7. — We have received no confirmation of the capture of Richmond, to-da}-, but we still believe it to be true. Our Pontoon train was strengthened by the addi- tion often boats, of the Tennessee pattern, with twenty feet of material, for each boat. We also got ten pontoon wagons. In addition to this we received twenty new arm}^ wagons, with six mules, and everything complete. This, with the six hundred feet of balk and chess — six hundred feet of bridge — which our people have cut, and now have in the kiln drying, and the various repairs going on, will add much to our train when next we "go forth to glorious war." Saturday, April 8. — Received orders to march next Monday. News of the capture of Richmond is confirmed to-day, by the appearance of an "extra" of a Goldsboro paper. It creates the wildest excitement in camp. The following is a reproduction of the paper : 508 CHAPLAIN HIGHT'S HISTORY OF THE Extra By Telegraph FROM NEWBERN RICHMOND AND PETERSBURG ARE OURS. 25,000 PRISONERS AND 500 GUNS. FIFTY-EIGHTH INDIANA REGIMENT. 50l> Newbern, April 6, 1865. Major-General SHERMAN: Richmond was occupied by Gen. Wietzel, at 9 o'clock, on Monday morning. Gen. Grant took Petersburg the night previous. I have just arrived from Washing- ton. CARL SHURTZ, Major General. Newbern, April 6, 1865. Major-General Sherman: I have just arrived from Roanoke Island. Norfolk papers state that Richmond and Petersburg are ours. We took 25,000 prisoners and 500 guns. That Lee is marching toward Danville. Gen. Schurtz corroborates this en- tire statement, having left Fortress Monr..e after it was accomplished. Gen. Schurtz goes to Goldsboro on the first train. Our forces marched into Richmond on Monday. Gen. Hill was killed. Gen. is in our hands a prisoner. Gens. Grant and Sheridan are fol- lowing Lee. T. T. STARKWEATHER, Capt. and A. Q. M. Newbern, April 6, 1865. Major-General Sherman: The boat is just in from Roanoke Island, and brings information that both Richmond and Petersburg have fallen, and that Gen. Grant has taken 25,000 prisoners and 500 guns. W. W. WRIGHT, Col., Chief Eng. and Gen. Supt. M. R. R. old CHAPLAIN HIGHT'S HISTOUY OF THE We attempted to hold religious services in the evening, but the shooting and shouting over the tail of Richmond was such that we could hardly hear our own songs. There was reason in this rejoicing, and it was music in our ears. After our meeting the noise increased in every direction. Rockets were sent up, cheers were given, anvils were tired, canteens were bursted, muskets were discharged, and everybody shouted himself hoarse. It was a beautit'ul night. It was a great and glorious time, and it did not cease until the jubi- lant soldiers had utterly exhausted themselves. Monday, April io. — Marched out of camp at seven. There is always an unusual amount of labor to march after remaininjT for a time in camp. We accumulate many new things, from most of which we must part. There is alvva3's no small amount of fussing and fumincr. Morsfan had the adv'ance, Oaird tol- lovved, and our train came next. The 20th Corps moves on tiie river road toward Smithtiekl. The 14111 Corps, followed by all the baggage, moves on the next right hand road. Several otlicers of our Regiment, whose time has expired, were mustered out March 28th. Among these, were Cap- tain Smith, of Company B ; Captain P^vans, of Company G ; AUXER M. HRVAXT," Company A. * Started in witli liis Conipan\- at Camp (jihson aiul romainod his t'uU three years with the Regiment, ser\ inij as (^lartermaster-Sergeant during the latter part of his term. After iea\iiig tiie arm \- he retiuMied to Indiana, and was, for se\eral \'ears, engaged in teaching, wliile completing his studies for the ministry. Moving to Nehraska, he continued his work in tiie same line. He served a term as State Senator, of Nehraska, and made an honor- able record. Later, he moved to Oregon, where he has iieen preaching and lecturing for scxcral vears, His home is now in Falls Citv, Oregon, FIFTY-EIGHTH INDIANA REGIMENT. 511 Lieutenants Wood and Harper, of Company I, and Captain Tousey, of Company D. These all started for their homes April 2d, accompanied by Lieutenant Jacob Davis, of Com- pany B, who goes on a thirty days' leave. My first term of three years' service expired March 5th, and on March 29th I was remustered into the service for the unexpired term of m}^ Regiment ; so now I may properly style myself a veteran. By mistake, we began moving before Baird. After getting a part of our train over the little run in front of our camp, it was cut in two by Baird going ahead. We had nearly a half day's delay before we were assigned to a place in the column. Headquarter train for the Army of Georgia came by us with splendid teams, newly equippad, and wagons lettered on the covers, "Headquarters Army of Georgia." It is only since coming to Goldsboro that the left wing has come to the full dignity of an army, with all the departments represented. A number of hospital trains came by, glitter- ing in new "rig." The ist Division, of the 14th Corps, whom we found with guns stacked by the roadside, moved off also in our advance, except a rear guard. They have a new commander. General Carlin having resigned. His suc- cessor is General Walcott, whom I saw for the first time, to-day. He is neatly dressed and makes an excellent appearance on first sight. This Division is better supplied than I ever saw it before. The men seem to have been supplied with everything they needed or desired. When they marched off, the ground was covered with their old gar- ments, and some new ones. I saw General Green, an old man. He has taken command of a Brigade in the 14th Corps. At eleven a. m.. we found a place — far in the rear of the one assigned us, yet, still in front of man}' trains. It is a matter of great importance to get near the head of the column ; then we pass over the roads before they are cut up, and get into camp in good season. The rear trains have reveille just as earh', and often travel until a late hour of the 512 CHAPLAIN HIGHT'S HISTOKY OF THE night, sometimes all niglit. If the pontoon is tar in the rear, and a bridge is to be made, it is cursed for not being up. We began the march by crossing Little River on a trestle bridge, made by our people some time since. It is about iifty feet wide and its banks are set with a growtli of such trees as marks a fertile soil. Amongst them is the beach, an old friend and favorite of my boyhood da^'S. Heard cannonading in front before leaving Goldsboro. Heavy musketry skirmishing heard several times during the dav. We had several men killed. With some, there is an impression that Johnson will give battle at Smithtield. If he does, Sherman will accept it immediateh^ The rebels knew that our army was going to advance to-day. Wade Hampton so informed a citizen, a few days since, and the citizen told Dr. Holtzman, to-day. I should say in general terms that our entire army is bet- ter equipped than ever betore. Supplies have been poured upon us with Potomac profusion. We are better off' than when we began the Atlanta, Savannah or Goldsboro cam- paigns. The men are in better health and spirits than ever before. The army has been largely augmented, not onh' bv the addition of the loth and 23d Corps, but new Regi- ments and detachments have been added to the old organi- zations. Captain Remington, Qiiartermaster of the 14th Corps, told me that the 14th must be three thousand stronger than when leaving Savannah. The Army of tlio Tennessee is marching on our right. About the Army of North Carolina, I am not intormed. The 23d Corps is at Goldsboro, and has marching orders for noon. The loth Corps is not there, and has not been, so far as I know. There has been quite a moral reformation in the army during our stay at Goldsboro. Many soldiers have been converted. Could we have remained a wliile longer, I believe God would have given us a glorious revival in Sher- man's army. FlFTY-EtGHTH INDIANA REGIMENT. Sl3 Camped, before dark, near Boon Hill, after marching twelve miles. We killed a hog in camp and had fresh pork for supper. The army train was coming in nearly all night. Tuesday, April ii. — Marched past Walcott's Division, in camp, at davlight, this morning. There was skirmishing at that time. Came up with rear of Baird's Division, mov- ing out of camp. He is moving past Morgan and is to take the advance. As we are to reach the Neuse at Smithfield, to-dav, the Pontoon train should have followed the advance Division. But there is no such wisdom in the 14th Corps. Morgan closed in after Baird, and then we follow. While we lav here Major-General Blair, commanding the 17th Corps, rode up, followed b}' a dashing staff. An officer inquired what troops were passing on this road. When informed that it was the 14th Corps, the General dispatches an orderlv to turn his own column in on a left hand road. We reached Smithlield at 4 130. We found the town and vicinity occupied by Baird's Division, and the advance of the 20th Corps, General Sherman's quarters were being put up at the court house, and General Slocum's were already up at the Methodist Church. The village is surrounded for a little distance by a tract of fertile land. The streets are wide. The walks are nicely shaded bv elms and hackberry. The latter are the most beautiful specimens of this tree I have ever seen. There is an indescribable beauty about the young green leaves, just coming out. All the houses in the town are wooden except two — the jail and court house. The population once, must have amounted to sev-en or eight hundred. Most of the houses are now deserted. Many of them have long been. The doors are open and the window glass broken. There are several churches and school houses. But the glory of Smithfield has departed, and that, too, before the war. I notice with pleasure, yesterday and to-day, that bum- ming has decreased. I have seen no houses burning. The rebels destroyed the bridge at this place, to-day. They began leaving these parts yesterday. 514. CHAPLAIN HIGHT'S HISTORY OF THE The river is from fifty to sixty yards wide. Our people began laying a bridge and completed it within an hour. This one is above the old bridge, and just at the end of the street above the Methodist Church. Another was laid below the old bridge. A Brigade or two passed over about dark. Wednesday, April 12. — This has been a morning of most wonderful excitement and enthusiasm. I was awak- ened by loud cheers, and man}^ bands, playing in all direc- tions. A dispatch is being read to each Regiment, from General Sherman, announcing the capture of Lee's entire army by General Grant.* The dispatch is official, and there can be no doubt. The soldiers are intensely pleased, and have stronger hopes of an early peace than ever. During the entire forenoon this dispatch was being read to the Reg- iments as they caine up. Such a serenade of bands Smith- field never had before, and never will have again. In all the streets and from all directions comes the swelling strains. The troops move rapidly over the Neuse — the 14th Corps at the lower bridge. The design is to push on towards Raleigh and bring Johnson to an engagement, if possible. Sherman is confident, this morning, of being able to capture him and his entire army. We spend the day in camp, at Smithfield, awaiting further orders. The trains stick in the swamps and come in slowly. None but the Arni}^ of Georgia is crossing here. We yesterday passed a house where there had been skirm- ishing. The woman declared that the shooting almost scared her to death. "Was it infantry or cavalry?" *[ Special Field Order, No. 54.] Headquarters Military Division of the Mississippi, ) IN THE Field, Smithfield, North Carolina, April 12, 1S65.)' The General commanding announces to the army that he has official notice from General Cjrant that General Lee surrendered to him his entire army, on the 9th inst., at Appomattox Court- House, \'irginia. Glor\' to-God and our countr\-, and all honor to our comrades in arms, toward whom we are marching. A little more labor, a little more toil on our part, the great race is won, and our Government stands regenerated, after foin- long vears of war. W. T. SHERMAN, Major-General commanding. FIFTY-EIGHTH INDIANA REGIMENT. "il.") inquired some one. "Oh no, nothing- but 'peekits,' " said the old lady. I took a walk about the town. The Masonic and Odd Fellows' Halls have been rifled. In the latter there is a skeleton, in a coffin. Saw an old dismounted gun lying near the river bank. It must date back to as early as the Revolution. I found none who could tell its history, except tliat it was brought l>om Newbern, to tire on gala days. At the court house I noticed the shelves, in the offices, are emptied of their contents on the floor. The archives of Johnson county lie in confusion amongst the dirt. Many of the documents date back to the old colonial times, when legal proceedings were done in the ^Bfck. King's name. The churches are open, Mgati ^\ and the books scattered about the pews. V tl At the graveyard I noticed the graves of a number of rebels, bearing ominous dates — about the time of the Benton- ville fight. In the same yard there is blood, seemingly where one of our sol- diers was killed yesterda}'. JOHN w. EMMERsoN * ^ crowd of uieu, women and children Lieutenant Co. F. came in to make application for guards, and most of the applicants were accommodated. The 58th Indiana is the only Regiment remaining here. Thursday, April 13. — The remainder of the trains of the Army of Georgia crosses this morning. We still remain, expecting some part of the Army of North Carolina. But it does not come ; rumor says it is crossing above, and crossing below, etc. In the evening we had meeting at the Methodist Church. It was not announced until just at the hour for meeting, j^et * Was mustered in with his Company and remained ^\ith it until tlie muster out. Was promoted to Second Lieutenant ot" tlie Company in 1865. A false report of his death, at Shiloh, reached his friends and a nice coffin was sent to bring the body home. [See page 7^.] But he got home in better shape after the hostilities were ended, and still lives to enjoy the fruits of the victory, on his farm near ()wens\ille, Ind. 516 CHAPLAIN HIGHT'S HISTORY OF THE the soldiers came flocking in, until the house was full. Two or three ladies were present. I ascended the high pulpit, and, sweating, preached earnestly to the people. The sol- diers sang with a will. We had a good meeting, and hope for a revival. Friday, April 14. — While returning from a walk, I noticed that the men were rolling up their tents and blankets, and soon learned that marching orders had been received. General Slocum writes, from Raleigh, to Lieutenant-Colonel Moore, to leave one bridge and a sufficient guard, and come on to Raleigh, with the surplus material, then follow the 20th Corps to Cape Fear river, by way of Jones' cross-roads. It was 9:30 when we marched. Companies B and G remain behind, with Captain McDonald commanding them. I hardly expect to see them any more during the war. If the army moves on, and they remain here, we will be in differ- ent departments. We marched out on the right-hand road. The way was much improved by the sun, since the rear of the train passed, yesterday. We came to the railroad, about one mile from Clayton, where we met Captain Smith, of General Davis' staff, with a mounted escort. He had been sent by General Sherman to conduct the train, by a. direct road, to Jones' cross-roads. This point is west of Raleigh, and a little north of west from Clayton, and it is, therefore, out of the way to go by Raleigh. We moved by a road, over which no arm}- had ever passed, in a southwest direction, for about seven miles. The country was rolling, and the people had corn, fodder and bacon. The men "helped themselves," to use an army expression. Captain Smith made diligent inquir}' for Jones' cross-roads ; but nobody had ever heard of it, and he pronounced them all fools. It seemed strange to me that we were moving southwest in search of a place that is north of west. But I was not much exercised for a time. We crossed Little and Swift creeks, at the latter of which we found a most beautiful camping place. It was near night, but as Colonel Moore hoped to camp witli General Davis, at FIFTY-EIGHTH INDIANA REGIMENT. 517 Jones' cross-roads, he moved on. We now came into a plainer road, but still going in the same direction, and came out on a Raleigh road, running east and west. Here the command stopped. Captain Smith had been making inquiry about Jones' cross-roads, but no one could give him anv information. He came back, swearing and blustering, and began to look at the map, as wisely as the learned hog at liie spelling book. The question was, which end of the road shall we take? He evidently had no idea of the points of the compass. Just think of moving southwest for north of west, and then debating whether to turn east or west I When he arose to mount his horse, all mystery vanished, for he flourished a bottle of whisky, calling, with language most profane, on those about him to drink. The rear of the loth Corps had just gone west on this road, and we follow, our whisky bottle dashing here and there. Being a little interested, I rode ahead about a mile and a half, and found a northwest road that led to Holly Springs, and I thought must lead to Jones' cross-roads. This is the right direction. No attention is paid to the discoveries of a sober man. Our whisky bottle, dashing about in the woods, turned the train out into a blind path, about three-fourths of a mile before coming to the Holly Springs road. This foad turned south of southwest, and led through a swamp. It was now dark, and the men had to go to corduroying. After traveling about a mile, we came to another east and west road, on which we traveled west. Here we found marks of troops having passed to-day. A short distance brought us to the main Wilmington and Raleigh road, running north and south. We were near Mr. Moore's, on Middle creek. It was about eight o'clock, and we went into camp. We are entirely out of the lines of our arm}^ The rebels captured a train near here this afternoon. The men have the remains of torty rounds each, but we are not very well prepared to defend ourselves. After a journey of twenty miles, we are only ten miles from Smithfield. After traveling twenty miles, we are only live miles nearer Raleigh. We are 518 CHAPLAIN HTGHT'S HISTORY OF THE twenty miles southwest of the capital. Such is the result of following a bottle of whisky in search of Jones' cross-roads. And yet they tell us that whisky is a very good thing. The "vulgah" soldiers might abuse its use, but "refined" staff officers need their spirits exhilarated, by its electrifying effects. We are at least twenty-five miles from Jones' cross- roads to-night. We are in Johnson county, while our guide imagines that we are in Wake county. Whisky drinking is a great curse in the arm}^ as it is everywhere else. Saturday, April 15. — This morning I was speaking of the folly of following a bottle of whisky about through the counties of Johnson and Wake, when, turning m\' head. Captain Smith came riding up. I hope he heard me. I meant him. We soon came to where the rebs had burned the wagons captured yesterday. They were loaded with supplies. We saw the remains of eight. The rebels had turned them around. We pass by the end of the Holly Springs road, referred to yesterday. We ;an his services with the Re<;;iinent (> THAPLAiN HICtHT\S HISTORY OF THE Orderlies also brought the rumor that Johnson had surren- dered to Sheridan, and all our army was halted. Our men are disposed to believe this, as they commonly are, what thev want to. Some reflections are cast on Johnson for surrendering to Sheridan. Some one had heard that John- son said in Raleigh that he would nev^er surrender to Sher- man. In the midst of these rumors and confabs, dark came upon us, with the front at Mr. Wiley Carrol's, four miles from Jones' cross-roads. Wiley, burning with martial ardor, went oft' to the big wars, and last August lost an arm at Petersburg. We camp on his little farm, burn his rails, eat his chickens, and make ourselves at home, generally. Poor Wiley ; how can he restore the rails, with only one arm and no negroes! Truly, in the South, "this is the rich man's war and the poor man's fight." In our march of the i6th we came to a sign board that said, "Smitlifield, 22 miles." We had traveled forty-five miles. Tlie sign board lies ; it should say about thirty. We came about fifteen miles out of the wa}^. We did not make much by the "short cut." It would have been better to have come by Raleigh, than to have wandered as we did. A mile farther of good roads brought us to our goal — Jones' cross-roads. One dwelling house, with two women on the porch, attest the reality of our having reached the long desired haven. The Colonel, believing the story of Johnson's surrender, and anticipating peace in a few days, was storming at the soldiers for going into houses and yards. At Jones' cross-roads, his better nature so far prevailed as to cause him, on the suggestion of Major Downey, to have a dead horse, lying at the gate, hauled oft'. Surely sometiiing is going to happen. We continue to liear of the surrender of Johnson. Most of the Regiment believe it; I do not, because we have nothing but rumors. We now turn southwest and go to Holly Springs, about two miles from Jones' cross-roads. It contains a number of wooden houses for dwellings, and a church and school FIFTY-EIGHTH INDIANA REGIMENT. 521 house. Most of the people are at home. The village receives its name from a spring below the church. Here, we overtook the train of the 14th Corps, which is moving on towards Cape Fear river. The troops are encamped on ahead. The belief is general that Johnson has surrendered. No dispatch has been sent around to the troops, but many reasons are given by those who hold to this faith. After remaining at Holly Springs long enough for the 14th train to get out of sight, and our mules to eat and drink, we move on. We pass Baird's Division in camp. They believe that Johnson has surrendered. We pass through a rolling country, medium in fertility. At one place we could see the hills "far awa}^" beyond the river. We saw several citizens at home. All thought the war about over, and seemed glad thereof. The army is doing less damage to the country than common. We come to White Oak creek ; just bevond is General Davis' headquarters. Passing by these we camp, a mile from the creek. We march sixteen miles and camp, just before dark, in a grassy field. It is Sabbath evening and singing can be heard in some of the camps. We expected to remain for several days, as the army seems to be halted, but orders came to go on down to Avent's Ferry and lay a bridge, so we moved out early on the morning of the 17th. Afterwards the order Ibr making the bridge is countermanded, but the march is continued. We find General Morgan camped at Avent's Ferry. His Adjutant-General tells us that Johnson has surrendered to Sheridan. "Jt shows a mean principle in him," said the Assistant Adjutant-General, with an oath. He appeared much disgusted with Johnson for not surrendering to Sher- man. When Dr. Holtzman began to ask how he got the news, where Johnson surrendered, etc., we all saw that he knew no more about it than we did. Cape Fear river is much wider here than at Favetleville. There is e\idenct» of the rel^els ha\ing had two pontoons •>'> (^HAPLAIX HICtHT'S HISTORY OF THE here at some period recently. We camp in a wheat field, just upon the river bank. Our Generals are clearly at a stand. The arm\^ must wait until "something turns up." Tuesday, April i8. — I spent this morning in writing, bathing and resting. After dinner I lav down for a short sleep. Lieutenant McMahan came into the tent and told me that President Lincoln had been assassinated at a theater in Washington. He said that there could be but little doubt of the truth of the statement, for it came directly from Gen- eral Morgan's headquarters. I was shocked — thunderstruck. Have we come to this? ^^^^^jt^ Then there is no addi- ^^^^^^^j^^ tional step in degredation fl[ ^Ha '^"*^ shame for our nation ^j^ -^^ wmMA to take. We are undone, ^i^m r" and eternallv disgraced. What better are we than Mexico? But it cannot be. Too many earnest pra3'ers are offered up for the life of Abraham Lin- coln ; his life is precious at this lime, and he is the purest and ablest Presi- dent we have ever had. I do not believe the re- port, simply because I do not think God would let him die at this lime. Late in the day it became certain that a dispatch was being read to the troops, that the President was dead. I was compelled to yield a reluctant belief. The story of Johnson's surrender, lacking all shape or con- tirmation, is now generally rejected. S, IIKNRY IIl'DSON PIIILLU'S, Company A. * Born March 7, 1837; died Ajiril 17, 18S0. Scrxc-d three years with liis Company, foilowinti; the Regiment in all its campaigns from '62 to "65. After leaving the army, he relurned to his occupation as a farmer, which he tbllowed until Ills drath. lie was a faithful soldier, and an lionorahle, upright citi/en. FIFTY-EIGHTH INDIANA KEGIMENT. 523 The assassination of President Lincoln makes a deep impression upon the soldiers, who speak of him with pro- found reverence, and swear vengeance on all rebels. Reg- iments are already speaking of inscribing "Lincoln Revengers" on their banners. Wednesday, April 19. — All doubts in reference to the death of tlie President were put to rest b}' the reading of the following to the Regiment : HKADqi'ARTERS MILITARY DIVISION OF THE MISSISSIPPI, ) In the P'ield. Raleigh, N. C, April 17, 1S65. ) Special Field Order, } No. 51. ii" The General commanding announces, with pain and sorrow, that on the evening of the 14th inst., at the theatre, in Washington Citv. His Excel- lency, the President of the United States, Mr. Lincoln, was assassinated, hy one who uttered the State motto of Virginia. At the same time, the Secretary of State, Mr. Seward, whilst suffering from a hroken arm, was also stabbed bv another murderer, in his own house, but still survives; and his son was wounded, supposed fatall\'. It is believed by persons capable of judging that other high officers were designed the same fate. Thus it seems that our enem\-, despairing of meeting us in open, manly warfare, begins to rescrt.to the assassin's tools. ^'our (jeneral does not wish you to infer that this is imi\ersal, for he knows that the great mass of the Confederate armv would scorn to sanction such acts, but he believes it the legitimate consequence of rebellion against rightful authority. We have met ever\- phase winich this war has assumed, and must now be prepared for it in its last and worst shape — that of assas- sins and guerrillas. But woe unto the people who seek to expend their w ild passions in such a manner, for there is but one dread result. By order of Major-General W. T. Sherman. Signed: L. M. DAYTON, Assistant Adjutant- General. Official: ROBERT P. DECKERD, Assistant Adjutant- General. Thursday, April 20. — During the forenoon an order was read from General Sherman, stating that an armistice had been agreed upon between himself and Johnson, and that something of the nature of a peace had been concluded, which if ratified, we might go home in a few da3^s. In the meantime, a line is announced between the two armies, and the armies go into permanent camp. T will gi't a copy of this order, if I can, :^•2\• CHAPLAIN MIGHT'S HISTORY OF THE A great deal of harm could now be done, b}- giving terms to the rebels. I do not care how much mercy is extended to them, but any other concessions would only smother the tires of civil war. It is now within our power to end this war by a ver}^ short campaign. I liope, therefore, that no favors will be granted. If we reinstate these rebels, in all their propertv and former civil rights, and leave the negroes out in the cold, there can be no peace. God will not permit it. The oppressed must go free ; they must not be sent empty away ; they must have schools and churches, houses and lands ; they must, in proper time, be admitted to all the privileges accorded to white men. Then we may hope for Heaven's blessings, but until then, never. Hostilities may, and will stop short of this, but the land will not, and should not have any quiet until all these things are accomplished. I tear this cry of peace. I fear concessions to rebels in arms. The Nation now has peace within its grasp. I am afraid it is about to drop it for the shadow. We had drill, forenoon and afternoon. In the evening, I preached on "Strength in Weakness." H Cor. xii, lo. The congregation was large and attentive. We expect to move back in the morning and encamp, and await peace negotiations. General Morgan goes to Holly Springs. Friday, April 21. — Got ready to march before orders carhe. Morgan's Division moves oft' early and we follow soon after. Many citizens come in, seeking mules and horses, and they get many. All of the citizens think the war over. We have orders against foraging, except lor horse feed. Marched three miles and camped near White Oak creek, in Ciiatham county. Put up nice quarters to await peace. We receive no late papers. We have more rumors than ever before. The death of President Lincoln is confirmed. There is a universal distrust of Andrew Johnson — friends and loes are agri'tnl. I confess that my confidence in him IS far from strong. We are all greatly in the dark, away FIFTY-EIGHTH INDIANA IJEGIMENT. o^T) out here, twenty-six miles from anywhere. We go from one to another, asking: "What's the news? " "Do you think the war is over? " "Do you think Lincohi is dead? " Sunday, April 23. — We have had nothing of a general or exciting nature in camp, to-da}-. We have had no news from Sherman's and Johnston's peace agreement. We are ignorant of what the terms are. There is a general impres- sion that the war is over. I am much exercised lest our usual tomfooleiy will ruin us at this critical moment. We received a mail this afternoon. In one of the papers we read that the neo-ro (jfuard in front of Mrs. General Lee's residence is replaced by a white man, out of respect for her feelings. Also, that the negro troops at Richmond were not reviewed with the white soldiers, recent!}^, for fear, I suppose, of offending white rebels. There is a call for the leading rebels of the State of Viro-inia to come to Rich- mond and set up shop again. Think of the Almighty send- ing for the devil to reorganize Heaven. A special train is sent to Burksville for General Grant and staff and General Lee and staff. Wonder if some people won't want to give Lee a public reception in the North. There are down-trod- den Union people in all the seceded states. Into their hands let the power be given. If there are whites let them run the civil government until the blacks go to school and get ready to help them. Where there, are no loyal white people let the blacks trv it. A loval negro is better than a Caucasian rebel. The day is fast dawning when men will vote with- out regard to color. To this end education should be dis- seminated amongst all the people. CHAPTER XXXI. Closing Events of the War — Johnston's Surrender — Peace Declared — On our Homeward Journey — Raleigh — Richmond — Bull Run — Alexandria — Washington — The Great Military Review — Farewell to the Pontoon Train — On to Louis- ville — Impatiently Waiting the Order to Go Home — At the Dedication of the Regimental Monument — Mustered Out — Home Again. ORDERS came for us to march this morning (April 25th) greatly to my surprise. We were accord- ingly up before day, and by six were read}' and march- ing. There were, at first, many surmises as to the direction we were going — whether to the rear, to be mustered out, at Harper's Ferry, or to the front to fight Joe Johnston. All this was quieted when we moved towards Avent's Ferry once more. Then began earnestly the discussion, "what does this mean?" Generalh^ it was admitted that it meant more war. The prevailing rumor was, that President Johnson liad declined to approve Sher- man's and Johnston's peace propositions. I am much pleased this morning. I am anxious to get home, but I have been much exercised at the prevalent disposition, seen of late, to smother up matters. I care not how much mercy is extended to men after the}' are caught, but the turning loose of Lee's army, by pre-agreement, was folly. Permit- ting his otllcers to keep their horses, and sell them to our men, is an outrage. Many of these horses were captured from our people. The rebels never fiivor our officers in this manner, There is too much talk about pardoning Jeff Davis. FIFTY-EIGHTH INDIANA REGIMENT. 527 The}' say "catching comes before hani;"ing," so ought par- doning. Better catch him, first ; tr}^ condemn, and sentence him, then he is ready for pardon or hanging, as may then be thought best. We laid a bridge across Cape P'ear river, and troops and trains were crossing by the evening of April 26th. In the afternoon of the 27th orders came to move back to our old camp at White Oak creek, preparatory to the concentration of our train at Raleigh. During our March to that place we learned, definitely, that Johnston had surrendered to Sherman . We also read , for the first time, of the terms first made by Sher- man and rejected by Secre- tary of War Stanton. I am glad that these proposed terms were repudiated. It would have been the culmi- nation of disgraceful blun- ders on the part ot our Government. There has been a change of sentiment in regard to the treatment of rebels. The people who were in favor of pardoning everybody engaged in rebellion a few days ago, are now in favor of hanging them. I hope public opinion will settle down to a happy medium — let us have mercy, tempered with justice. There have been very strict orders issued against foraging, and the occupation of "Sherman's bummers" is gone. CAPTAIN J. E. VOORHEES,* Company E. * Was mustered as Second Lieutenant, Company E, at the organization of the Regiment. Promoted to First Lieutenant May 31, 1S62; to Captain June 2, 1863, and was mustered out November 11, 1S64, by reason of expira- tion of term of service. lie returned to his home in Terre Haute where lie engaged in business as contractor on public works of various kinds. lie is still engaged in this business in connection with his son, and seems to be prospering. 528 ("HArLAIN HIGHT'S HISTORY OF THE One oi' these was heard to remark, on hearing a rooster crow, "Oh yes, you can crow in our t'aces now, you know Uncle Billy has prohibited foraging." Saturday, April 29. — We reached Raleigh and camped near town, waiting orders to start on our homeward march, via Richmond. These were orders for which we had waited and wnshed for more than three years, and we are now near the consummation of our w'ish. The war is now over and we are to start for home in a few days. Peace, glorious peace is to resume its place in our country. In the afternoon orders came to divide the Pontoon train, one-half to go with the 20th Corps, the other to go with the 14th. Captain McDonald joined us in the even- ing, with Companies B and G, w^hich we had left at Smith- field. All day, Sunday, April 30th, troops w^ere passing through Raleigh, with banners flying and sounds of martial music. It was a grand sight. I follow , the right wnng of the Pontoon train, which is with the 20th Corps. We are well up in the advance and march rapidly until we reach Dickenson bridge, on Tar river. We meet man}^ soldiers of Lee's army, making their way homeward. They are completely whipped, and some of them did not appear to be sorry of it. We are all glad tiie war is over. We started early on the morning of May 3d, and, after a hurried march, reached Taylor's Ferry by nine o'clock. On the way we crossed the State line and entered Virginia, the ninth State in which our Regiment has been. At this place we come to the Roanoke, and bridge it ; the width is six hundred and seventv-five feet. Over this, the 20tli Corps begin to cross. This is a line stream and a nice place to camp, but we do not stop here long. We press on, passing through Boydtown, thence on to Greensboro, in Mecklin- burg county, and, after a marcli of twenty-eight miles we go into camp, at eight o'clock ]■>. m. It is the general talk that there is a race between tiie i.j.th Corps and the 20th FIFTY-EIGHTH INDIANA REGIMENT. 529 Corps to gain the advance at Richmond. Ilence, our hur- ried marchintr. In our march of May 4th we came to the falls of Notto- way river, covering a distance of-thirty miles by ten o'clock p. m. Here we came to a camp of part of the gallant 6th Corps, of the Arm}^ of the Potomac, from wliom we received some of the latest papers and much courtesy. After another hard march on the 5th we reached the Appomattox, late in the night. But General Davis had learned that the 20th Corps were taking their time, and were far in the rear, so he did not order a bridge laid that night ; we were permitted to rest. Saturday Morning, May 6. — We were out early, and soon came to Goode's bridge crossing, were it was necessar}- to lav a bridge. It was here that General Lee crossed his army when on his recent retreat from Richmond. We soon had the bridge completed, and troops began to cross ; while we go into camp. About nine o'clock. May 7th, we take up our march, fol- lowing the other troops, some distance in our advance. After a march of twenty miles we came to Falling creek, ten miles from Richmond. Next morning we came on to the city and found a camping place, two miles out, at Brancli Church. Here, we remain until the iith, when we move on, cross- ing the James river on pontoons. There was a hue display of military, as Sherman's army went marching through Richmond. We had a chance to see but little of this famous old city, as we did not stop. There were evidences on every hand of the demoralization and destruction of war. Our march from Richmond was by way of Hanover C. H. to Littlepage's bridge, on the Pamunk}' river. A severe storm of rain came upon us late in the evening. In the midst of this we were called to the river crossing where a bridge was to be laid. Our boys worked in the rain and mud until late at night, to complete their task, but the troops did not begin crossing until next morning. 530 CHAPLAIN HIGHT'S HISTORY OF THE On the I3tli we passed Concord Church, where Meade's army had camped a few days ago. Went into camp near Mt. Carmel Church, about nine o'clock p. m., having marched twenty-five miles. Next day we move in rear of Walcott's Division and leave the great battlefields of the Wilderness and Spotsylvania C. H. on the right. We cross the 20th Corps at Childsboro. On the 1 6th our column crosses the Rapidan at Raccoon Ford, the men and horses wading the stream. In the after- noon of the same day we cross the Rappahannock, in the same style. On Thursday, May 18, we came to Kettle Run, camping near the famous Bull Run battle ground. Here is where tlie first great battle of the war was fought, and it was a point of much interest to us. Bull Run is a very insignificant stream, but it is very famous. We stopped lor dinner at Centerville. Passing through Fairfax C. H., and other places of inter- est, we found a camping place, ten miles from Alexandria. Next day we moved to within three miles of the town and halted. We camp in a low, swampy place, but such are about the only kind of places to be found hereabouts. ANDREW M MASTKK, Company A. * Was imistercci in as pri\ ate in Camp Gibson. Served as Orderly at Regimental headciuailers for some time. In 186^ he re-enlisted, and in 1S65 was promoti'd to Seri^eant- Major of the Rei^iment and was mustered out as such, July 2:^, 186^. Returninsr to his home at Princeton lie learned the blacksmith's trade. After this, he removed to Portland. Oregon, and engaged in business, in which he has been quite successful. He still resides in Portland, and from that distant port sends kindest greetings to his old comrades of the 58th. FIFTY-EIGHTH INDIANA REGIMENT. 531 The great event of our stay here was the Grand Review of the army in Washington. On May 22d it was my good fortune to witness the review of General Grant's Army of the Potomac. In company with Dr. HoUzman, I got to Pennsylvania Avenue, just as General Sheridan's magnifi- cent Cavalry Division began to pass in review. We took our stand near the Treasury building and witnessed the grandest military display the world ever saw. It was worth all our toilsome march through Georgia and the Carolinas to see this sight. On the 24th this grand spectacle was repeated, with Gen- eral Sherman's grand army as the actors. On the 26th, our Regiment moved camp, to a place near Mt. Olivet cemetery, in the suburbs of Washington. We moved to Alexandria, and, in passing through that town, gave the spectators a review of our Pontoon train. We then moved up the Potomac, and crossed over the Long bridge. Marched past the Smithsonian Institute to Pennsylvania avenue, thence east, passing around the Capitol, and on to the hill opposite Mt. Olivet, where we found a beautiful camping place. Here we are to remain for a few days, and the bovs improve the time in sight seeing. There are many places of interest about Washington, and every place is thronged with soldiers. It is easy to distinguish the soldiers of Sherman's army from those of the Eastern arm 3^. The Western soldier is, as a rule, taller, and not so careful in his apparel, as is the one from the East. There is also man- ifested more of a free and independent air in the Western soldier. But there is no difference in the fighting qualities of the two. May 31st we turned over to the Government our famous Pontoon train. We bade farewell to our mules and wagons, without a tear. On the 6th of June we moved our camp, to a place near Glen wood cemetery, where we were assigned to 2d Brigade, ist Division, 14th Corps. On the 9th of June we took up our line of march to the Baltimore and Ohio depot, where we boarded the cars for our homeward CHAPLAIN KIGHT'S HISTOrtY OF THE trip. The accommodations are not first-class, but the boj^s are patient and cheerful. Along the route the people greet our train with cheers, and waving of flags and handkerchiefs. The demonstrations of joy are more apparent in West Vir- ginia. At every station there is a great crowd of men, women and children, who greet us with wild delight. On the evening of June 1 1 we reached Parkersburg, where we disembarked, and went into camp. We were to take a boat here for Louisville. Next morning we all go on board the steamer Coniniercial , and are soon on our way down the Ohio. It is a delightful change from box cars to this elegant steamer, and the boys duly appreciate it. But there is one element of uncertainty that makes our happiness incomplete. There is talk of sendinof part of the army to Texas, and we are uncertain whether we are of that part. The boys contend that tlie war is over, and the term of their enlistment has ex- pired, and I think they are right. If there are still some fragments of the rebel armv in Texas, there are enough soldiers in the regular army to attend to them. All doubts and appreiiensions were, in a measure, relieved, when it was learned that Louisville was to be the end of our LIEUTENANT ZACK JONES* Company H. * Was imistfrcd as First Scrijcant of Comiiany 11, December i6, iS^i. Promoted to Second Lieutenant June 17, 1862, to First Lieutenant No\em- ber 7, 1862, and was tmistered out by reason of expiration of term, June 20, 1865. He served jiart of the time as aid-de-eamp on the stafl' of Colonel Buell, comniandin<( the Brigade, and was also, for a time, on the stalV of General Ilarker. lie was on that duty at the time of the bloody charge on Kenesaw Mountain, June 27, 1864, and was by the side of the gallant Ilarker when he fell mortally wounded. Since the war he has been engaged in busi- ness in Washington, Ind., and seems to be prospering. FIFTY-EIGHTH INDIANA REGIMENT. 5?,:} journey. We arrived at that place after nioht, June 13, and remained on the boat until next morning. After breakfast, on the 14th, we went ashore. We marched up 4th street to Main, down Main to 5th street. Here we met the looth Illinois, with music and banners, marching to the Jefferson ville ferry, on their way home. Three years ago we made their acquaintance at this place. They had just entered the service then, and were assigned to our Brigade. Now they are going home, while we still remain. After marching about, this way and that, for the greater part of the day we finally went into camp, near the Bruners- burg pike, four miles and a half from Louisville. We remained here for about ten days. During that time the paymaster visited us. Several of the officers and men were granted furloughs, and we were visited by several friends from Indiana. But.there was still a growing dissatisfaction in camp, on account of the seeming indifference of the offi- cers in command, as to our muster out. I was charged with having encouraged this feeling of discontent among the sol- diers and was called to General Buell's headquarters to make an explanation. I informed him that the reports were false, and that instead of lending encouragement to this feel- ing, I was rather using my influence to prevent any out- break among the soldiers. But, at the same time, I will not be a part}^ to holding these soldiers longer than their serv- ices are needed, and I think that time has passed now. I plainly told General Buell this, but assured him that I will discourage all discontent and open riot. About dark, Sunday evening, June 25, orders came for the Regiment to march to Louisville and report to General Watkins for provost duty, and we were soon on our way thither. Provost duty was a new kind of service for the 58th Indiana. During all our time we had been at the front, or near enough to be engaged in active service. But now, that the war is over, the place for active service is in the rear, as provost guards, and we are sent thither. 534. CHAPLAIN RIGHT'S HISTORY OF THE Moving into the city, we camped at the foot of Broadway, about 1 6th street. There is only one tree for shiade and, of course, Regimental headquarters must use that. The main body of the Regiment is camped in a dog-fennel common, in the hot sun. The ^id Indiana is to assist in provost duty. There is nothing desirable about this kind of service, and the boys are not slow about expressing their disgust. There is only one consolation — it will not last long. Tuesday, June 27. — Rev. Mr. McMaster, of Princeton, visited our Regiment to-day. I have accepted an invitation to deliver an address at the dedication of the monument to the memory of the dead of our Regiment, at Princeton, on the 4th of July. In the evening I preached to a small congregation. Spir- itual matters are not flourishino;. Men are thinkinor of home ; manv of them are gone on short furloughs. Thursday, June 29. — Our camp looks quite deserted, since the discharging and furloughing of so many. We are all impatient to go home, and prospects of our going soon are brightening. Several soldiers ran off last night, witliout permission. I permitted myself to be persuaded not to hold meeting to-night. Friday, June 30. — I have sent up an application for a ten days' pass, to enable me to attend the dedication of the monument to our dead, at Princeton, on the 4th of July, but no answer has been given to it. I am very anx- ious to go. Several of our officers are giving but little attention to bus- iness, but spend their time running about the city. Sunday, July 2. — Went over to New Albany to attend church. Services commenced ; went to cemetery ; dined with Rev. Ileatli ; called on I?rother Noble ; attended sacra- ment at my old church — Roberts' Ciiapel. I was treated ver}'- coolly by the old preachers. I suppose this was owing to my mustache, Siierman medal, the herring bone stitch on my coat, etc. Forlunatel}', I am independent of these good old men. FIFTY-EIGHTH INDIANA RFAHMENT. 58 i In the evening I preached in my Regiment. The sun shone too hot to liave meeting during the day. We arc waiting a few da3's, "to see what will turn up," before mak- ing a comfortable place for worship. Thirty-two of Sher- man's veteran Regiments, including the 38th and 42d Indi- ana, are to be mustered out ; ovu* time may come next. Our men are in good spirits. Having received my permit, I left camp at seven a. m., July 3, for Princeton. Went down 15th street to the Port- land street cars, by them to Portland ferry and crossed over to New Albany, thence by the L., N. A. & C. R. R. to Mitchell, and by the O. & M. R. R. to Vincennes, thence by the E. & C. R. R. to Princeton, where I stopped with Brother Slack. Tuesday, July 4. — Hottest dav of the season. Meet innumerable friends. Monument not up ; will be a splendid structure when done. I am much pleased with it. Music, and speeches by Revs. Jenk- ins, Meredith, McMaster, and myself. My address was delivered under embarrass- ments. Fireworks in the evening, and a gala day alto- gether. GEORGE W. SHOPBELL,^ Company D. * Was mustered with the Regiment in Camp Gibson and served his full term of enlistment. Was made Sergeant of his Company, and for some time served as Forage Master for the Regimental Pontoon train. After his army service he returned to his home in Princeton and began working at the carpenter's trade. Subsequently, he became a contractor, and has been engaged in that line of business ever since, having been employed in the erection of some of the finest residences and business blocks in Princeton in recent years. 530 CHAPLAIN MIGHT'S HISTORY OF THE Wednesday, JuiA" 5. — Spent until five p. m. in Prince- t(Mi, and then went on the train to Vincennes. Attended prayer meeting at the church, and remained over night with Rev. John H. Ketcham, whom I came to visit. Went to Terre Haute on the 6th ; next day to Greencastle, and thence to my old home in Bloomington, on the 8th. Sunday, the 9th, I attended church at my old place, and heard a sermon by Brother Gillett. I was very much pleased with the Sabbath school, which met at two o'clock p. m. The music has been much improv^ed, by the intro- duction of a cabinet organ. This is not yet used in the church services, as there is some opposition. The organ has come into use in manv of the churches in Indiana, since the war began. Truly, "The world moves." Wednesday, July 12. — Left Bloomington at two p. m. and arrived in camp at Louisville, at ten p. m. Orders were issued on the 3d inst. to muster out this entire army — the Army of the Tennessee — and were read by me, in the papers of Greencastle, on the 7th. I found our people working on their rolls. Colonel Moore has returned. The veterans are in great spirits. I put up quarters with Colonel Moore. I have much writing which I am desirous of doing before we are mustered out. Our men are on what is called "provost dutv" — in plain Englisli they are affording protection to the whisky sellers and disreputable houses. This kind of "duty" is demoral- izing. Chaplain Chapman preached to us in the evening. One man — old General Jones — was drunk and "talked in meet- inn Hospital, where they washed themselves and put on new clothing. They were FIFTY-EIGHTH INDIANA REGIMENT. 555 then taken into a ward as line as a parlor, and partook of a splendid dinner. The passage from rebeldom was like enter- ing into the better land. The skies never looked so blue, nor the billows never rolled so grandly. The dashing of the waves against the hull of the steamer, and the whipping of the sails of shipping was like the clapping of angel hands. Those they met seemed like brothers. The grass resembled a car- pet of brilliant green. The works of man and of nature, and every living creature, seemed to rejoice with the prisoners ; it was like the hour of one's conversion, or the quiet gran- deur of the eternal Sabbath. But many had long sustained life on the hope of freedom and home. Now, that they had escaped, exhausted nature could endure no longer. In ten days one third of those who had escaped the horrors of rebel incarceration were lying beneath the sod. We can but drop a tear to the memory of those gallant men, who perished, just as the}^ were prepared, by a long baptism of sufl'ering, to enjoy home and freedom. Sergeant Crawford was taken worse, but survived his illness. On Ma}^ 20th he left the hospital for Camp Parole, and on June 20th he started for Chattanooga, arriving there June 25th, and soon aftei' (July 19th) joined the Regiment, while we were at Vining's Sta- tion, on the Chattahoochee. Such is the brief record of the captivity of a Union soldier, and his horrid treatment at the hands of a heartless foe. Others less fortunate lingered longer in loathsome prisons, and many sleep in exiles' graves. Many an account, more thrilling than this, will never be written, many a sad tale will never be told, until the revelations of the great day. APPENDIX. 558 8HEE MAN'S BI MMERS, ONE OF SHERMAN'S BUMMERS* Relates an Unpleasant Experience with Wheeler's Cavalry, while out Foraging in North Carolina — Capture and Escape — Perilous Journey through Swamps — Through Rebel Camps — Back to the Union Lines. BY w. J. redburn, CORPORAL COMPANY B, 58TH INDIANA. The morning of March 5th, 1865, found part of Sher- man's arm 3^ camped at Cox's Bridge, on a river in North Carolina. While our colored troops were engaged in a skirmish with Wheeler's rebel cavalry, on the Bentonville road, on the north side of the river, Alonzo Stewart and the writer saddled the horses we had captured a few days previous and crossed the pontoon bridge into the enemy's country, in searcli of forage. We wanted food for our horses, and whatever would satisfy a soldier's appetite, for at that place Sherman's army had to live on what they could get, and the soldier who was not afraid to risk his life for something to eat fared the best, providing he was not picked up by the "Johnnies." We had ridden several miles and visited a number of houses and hen-coops, but got noth- ing, because the rebs had been just ahead of us, and it is always dry picking after they have been through the country. On our wav we fell in with a man from an ()liio Regiment, whom I will call "Ohio," having forgotten his real name. He cheerfully joined us in our expedition, and we had pro- ceeded together but a sliort distance when we came upon * This article was first published in the Princeton Clarion in 1SS5, and is a true account of a thrilling adventure of the writer. It Is re-published here to illustrate the great risk taken b}' the foragers in that memorable campaign. Very many did not escape so well as did those in this narrative. SHERMAN'S BUMMERS. 559 some men digging sweet potatoes near the roadside, while ten or twelve mounted soldiers awaited the fillinld to take action on the death of General Buell, June 2, 1883. It was made up principally of men who had served in the late war, some of wiiom had worn the gray. A committee was appointed to draft resolutions expressive of their sorrow, in the death of a loved comrade and a brave soldier. Pending the action of the committee, a number of persons gave personal testimony of their respect for General Buell, as a citizen and a soldier. Among these expressions were the following : Captain John Ruhm said he knew a great deal about General Buell's character. He commanded one of the finest Indiana Regiments. He was a gallant soldier and a noble and generous one. He referred to his reputation as an Indian fighter on the frontier in glowing terms. Major A. W. Wills said: I am unable to add words expressive of the great worth of the dejiarted, to the noble sentiments embraced in the resolu- tions. 1 would say, however, that I have known the General long and well. 570 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES, I was by his side as his groomsman in the happiest hour of his life, imless he may have been happier when on the field of battle, for I never knew a man who seemed to crave the field of carnage, as he did. So great was his ambi- tion, so determined was he to reach the summit of the ladder of fame. He was a brave and true patriot and soldier. He knew well his duty — he cared not for trials and hardships. He was called by some a martinet. Yet he only asked of his subordinates and his soldiers to do what he did. He never said ''Push onward," but always "Follow me."' As a father and loving hus- band, none ever excelled him. Brave, daring, and almost savage on the bat- tlefield, at the fireside as gentle as a child. The nation has suffered almost an irreparable loss, and ere the setting of many suns I doubt not the wild Indian of the far West will join the war dance in rapturous delight over the death of the great Indian fighter whom they have cause to know so well, the late General Buell. General W. H. Jackson said it was a sad pleasure to pay a tribute to the worth of General Buell. He knew him well. He admired him because of his gallant soldiership, but best on accoimt of his high regard for his duties as a citizen. In the territory in which General Buell gained his distinction he (General Jackson) had traveled and fought over the same ground. Therefore, it had been a pleasure for them to meet and con\erse together. General Buell had the highest regard for his duty as a father, making his son a companion. General G. P. Thruston said there were gentlemen present who knew General Buell better than he, but so well were his characteristics known throughout the army that he could speak. General Buell was made Brigade commander at the battle of Stone River. At the battle of Chickamauga he fought a fight that earned him a national reputation. In Georgia it was through his instriunentality that many a bridge was built so rapidly as to attract the attention of the world. These enabled the army to achieve many noble victories. General Buell was a soldier and a friend. On either side we are ready to honor such men. The committee reported the following memorial, which was unanimously adopted : In the few words that can be written upon an occasion like this, it is impossible to pay a just tribute to the life and eminent services of a charac- ter like (General George P. Buell. His personal history is blended with many memorable events in which he bore a conspicuous part. His military title was not the gift of chance or friendship. It was fairly won upon many fields during the late war, through years of faithful service. It was the reward of his own personal gallantr\', intellectual force and ability to command. This is already recorded as well in many historic papers as in the memory and hearts of his comrades and those who admired him. Earl\' in the war he rose to be Colonel in one of the finest Regiments in the Army of the Cum- berland, and soon afterwards one of its Brigade commanders. At the battle of Murfreesboro, at Chickamauga, at Atlanta, in the March to the Sea, at Savannah, and at the last noted battle of the war, at Bentonville, North Car- olina — the honorable part he bore has found its way into published military records. Distinction also followed him since the war. In his Indian cam- l>aign in the West, and in the varied relations in ci\il life, as citizen, neigh- bor and friend, he has won the esteem and aftection of all who knew him. He was an earnest, decided character, but just and modest, considerate and generous. In the family circle he was beloved bevond expression in words. We can only oiler our deep and tender sympathies to those sufier- ing friends he loved so well. Years of campaigning and exposure in the far West, as Colonel of his Regiment in the regular army, finally impaired his health and caused iiis untimeh- death. BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. 571 His family and army comrades and grateful country cannot but feel the profoundest sorrow that this brave spirit has thus been borne down in the verj' prime of life and hope. Be it Resolved, That a copy of this report be furnished to the daily papers at Nashville, to the Army and Navy journal, and to General H. M. Cist, and to the family of our friend, General Buell. J. P. TIIRUSTON, W. H. lACKSON, W. P. JONES, MORACP: H. HARRISON, ALBERT AKERS, Committee. The chair, at the request of the family, appointed the following pall bear- ers: Governor W. B. Bate, Honorable A. J. Caldwell, Postmaster W. P. Jones, General W. H. Jackson, General G. P. Thruston, John Ruhm, Col- onel VV. M. Woodcock, J. P. Drouillard, General J. F. Wheless, Major Hugh Gwyn, Captain J. W. Morton and Major A. W. Wills. Lieutenant=Colonel Joseph Moore. Lieutenant-Colonel Moore spent most of his early life in Gibson county, Indiana. At the commencement of the war he was in the mercantile busi- ness in Francisco, Ind., but he decided to abandon civil pursuits and oflered his services m defense of his country. A call for additional volunteers being made in the summer of iS6i, he started out to recruit a Company, which was soon accomplished, and at the organization he was elected its Captain. This Company was ordered to rendezvous in the fair ground, at Princeton, and was designated as Company B, of the ^Sth Indiana Regiment. After about six months' service as Captain of the Companv, he was promoted to Major of the Regiment, and about a year later to Lieutenant-Colonel, which rank he held at the close of the war, when he was finally mustered out with the Regiment. At Mission Ridge he was in command of the Regiment, and led it in the charge on the rebel rille pits. He was also in command of the Regiment in the Atlanta campaign, and on the "March to the Sea," and through the Carolinas, and had charge of the Pontoon train, bridging all the streams crossed by Sherman's arm^- on that memorable campaign. For his ability and faithful performance of this dut}', he was highly complimented hy his superior officers. Soon after coming home from the army. Colonel Moore removed to Mis- souri, where he was engaged in business for a few years. Then he returned to Indiana, and located in Indianapolis, where he was engaged in the claim and pension business for about twenty years. He was held in high esteem by all who knew him. He was a true and brave soldier, and an honest, upright citizen. He died at his home in that city, May 7, 1S94, aged sixty -five years, after a long illness from disease contracted in the army. 572 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES, Lieutenant=CoIonel James T. Embree. Lieutenant-Colonel James T. Embree was born in Princeton. Indiana, January 27, 1829, and was a member of a family distinjjuished for ability in tbe legal profession. His father was Judge Elisha Embree, a pioneer in tlie profession of law in Gibson county, Indiana, and ranked as one of the ablest members of the bar in the State. He served as judge of the Circuit Coin-t and also as a representative in Congress from his district. James T. was educated in Asbury University at Greencastle, Ind., graduating in 1S50, read law with his father and graduated from the law department of the State University at Bloomington in 1S52. He associated himself with his father in the practice of his profession at Princeton, Ind., and was soon in posses- sion of an extensive business. In 1S61 he was regarded as one of the ablest advocates in Southern Indiana and had brilliant prospects for a long and successful career. But he was an intensely loyal man, not onl3' by instinct, but by inheri- tance. In the stormy years of discussion and debate, preceding the war, his voice and influence was in behalf of measures that would perpetuate liberty and more firmly establish the Union. He was a Fremont elector in 1856, and was in thorough sympathy with the sentiment that was opposed to the extension of slavery and the aggressions of the slave power, and, as a matter of course, was an ardent supporter of Abraham Lincoln, in the memorable campaign for the presidency in 1S60. As a further natural sequence, when the Southern slave oligarchy resorted to arms for the purpose of breaking up the Union his patriotic blood was aroused. With the great mass of the loval, union loving people of the country, he realized that the time for argument and discussion was at an end. President Lincoln's call for volunteers found a ready response and a hearty endorsement among the people, but only a small proportion of those who ottered their services could be accepted. In the first months of the war the two \ounger brothers of Mr. Embree enlisted, but it was not until October, iSfn. tiiat he fount! opportunity to enter the service himself. When the sStii Indiana Regiment was being organized he was tendered the position of Major, which he accepted and went with the Regiment to the field. In a few months after entering the service he was promoted to the rank of Lieutenant-Colonel, and during the greater part of the time was in com- mand of the Regiment, the Colonel being in command of the Brigade. On account of the death of his fatlier and a^so his wife, he was compelled to resign in the latter part of 1863, and return to urgent business cares at iiome. He became greatly attached to the men of the Regiment and was held in high esteem by them, and there was mutual regret at the parting. He was a kind hearted officer and entered into the s\-mpathies of those untier his com- mand — an ofiicial characteristic somewhat out of the ordinary. After his return home he resumed the practice of law and began to gather up his business that had been interrupted by the war. But tlie seeds of a deadly disease had been implanted in his s\-stem during his army service and he did not live long to enjoy the blessings of a jieacefid and imited coimtry. He died August 3, 1S67, honored and esteemed bv all. especiallv by his com- rades. He iiad been instrumental in organizing the first post. Grand Army ot" the Reiiuhlic. in I'rini-etoii, and it was liis fortune to be the first comrade to he buried inider tlie auspices and w illi the iionors of the (jrand Army. BIOGEAPHICAL SKETCHES. 573 Colonel H. M. Carr. Colonel H. M. Carr, who first commanded the 5Sth Indiana Regiment in the field, was born in Montgomery coimty, Indiana, where he spent the earlier years of his life. When tlie war broke out hfe enlisted under the first call for volunteers, serving three months in the iith Indiana Regiment as Captain of Company G. At the expiration of his term he re-entered the service for a term of three years in the same Regiment. November 14, 1861, he was promoted to the Colonelcy of the 5Sth Indiana, and at once entered upon his duties with that Regiment. He remained with the Regi- ment until June 17, 1862, when he resigned and returned to his home at Crawfordsville. But he did not remain long out of the service. A call for additional volunteers in 1S62 gave him the opportunit\- to engage in the recruiting ser\ice. lie assisted in recruiting the 72d Indiana Regiment, which was raised in the counties comprising the Eighth District, and was organized at Lafayette. It was mustered into service August 16, 1862, and Carr was commissioned Captain of Company B. In a tew months he was promoted Major and continued as such until June 28, 1864, when he resigned on account of disability. Soon after the war he located in Louisville, where he engaged in the claim and pension business. He died in 1SS4, aged 54 years, of heart trouble, 'and his body rests in the beautiful Cave Hill ceme- tery, at Louisville. His widow and two daughters are still living; two sons preceded him to the grave. Colonel Carr was a man of fine militarv appearance, and had a strong, commanding voice, tie was in ever\' way well adapted for handling a body of troops in the field. He was a genuine patriot and gave his best ser\ ice to his country at a time when such service was most needed. In civil life he is spoken of by one who knew him best as "a splendid, noble, generous, upright man, affectionate, and true as steel, yet as modest and sensitive as a woman." He was most highly esteemed by those who knew him and his death was universally regretted. 57i NATIONAL MILITARY PARK. Chickamauga and Chattanooga National Park. TSfoTE. — The material facts in this article are obtained, partly, from articles written by General H. V. Bojnton, a member of the National Com- mission, and partly from information obtained by the writer on a recent personal visit to the battleground. One of General Boynton's very excellent descriptive articles was published in Harper s Weekly, June 22, 1S95, and another in the "Official Souvenir Program" of the^ recent International Epworth League Convention, in Chattanooga. In 1889 a movement was begun that resulted in the establishment of a National Park, embracing the battle grounds of Chickamauga and Chattanooga. The origina- tors of the scheme were from both of the armies who had fought upon these grounds, and the underlying idea was, that nowhere was there a better exemplification of American braver}' and courage than upon the battlefields of Chicka- mauga and Chattanooga. It was the opinion that the battles here fought, ranked among the most notable, in many respects, of the greatest war of modern times. It was here that there was displayed the greatest strategy in militar}' movements, and it was thought, by the originators of this enterprise, that here was the place and the opportunity for an impartial examination of a battlefield l\y both sides, purely as a military study, to the end that the important details of this historic event might be accurately preserved as an illustration of the achievements of American citizen soldiery. This project was put into formal shape and made effective by an act of Congress, approved August 19, 1890, and under direction of the Secretary of War a commission, composed of representatives of both armies, was appointed to carry out the provisions of the act. For the prosecution of the work Congress made an appropriation of $725,000, It required two years more to secure title to the lands, but the commission' has finally succeeded in completing the NATIONAL MILITARY PARK. 575 purchase ot" the entire battlefield of Chickamauga, and has options on other lands adjacent, which will eventually be included in the Park. The main body of the Park is traversed by the Lafayette and Chattanooga road, which passes through Rossville Gap at Missionary Ridge. The main roads have all been rebuilt in the most substantial manner, and all the old roads of the battlefield have been restored and improved. There are now on the battlefield about twenty-five miles of the finest roads to be found any- where. In the plan of improving and restoring the field all the old roads, that were in existence at the time of the battle, have been reopened and improved and any new roads that have been opened since the battle have been closed. The underbrush and new growth of trees have been cut out, so that it is easy to trace the lines of battle, and one may drive through the woods over any part of the ground. Such buildings as were landmarks of the battle, and have since fallen into decay, have been rebuilt or repaired, or the site of such buildings designated by a tablet. The methods of marking the lines of battle are by monuments, tablets, and actual batteries of artiller}'. There are steel and iron observation towers so placed at prominent points as to enable visitors to ascend above the tree tops and observe all portions of the field. Two of these are on Missionary Ridge and three on Chickamauga battle- field. In addition to the tablets and other markers erected by the National Government, each State has taken measures to erect monuments to mark the position of all its Regiments and Battalions that were engaged in the battle. Some of these monuments have alread}^ been erected, and most of them will be completed by the time for the dedication of the Park, September 19 and 20, 189^. Historical tablets, constructed of iron, each 3x4 feet, have been erected at different points on the battlefield. These give a condensed history of the movements of each organi- zation and the part taken in the battle upon that part of the field. There are also staff tablets bearing the names of every general officer's staff. The tablets are numbered, consecu- tively, on tiie upper left-hand corner, and on the upper right hand corner appears the letter "U," or "C," indicating the army to which the participants belonged. There is no dis- tinction in the treatment of the Union and Confederate armies, except in this particular. 576 NATIONAL MILITARY PAKK. The following is a copy of the tablets for General T. J. Wood's Division, located in the position held by that com- mand on the Brotherton farm, Sunday morning, September 20th : NO. 67. U. WOOD'S DIVISIONCRITTENDEN'S CORPS. During tlie night of the 19th Buell's and Marker's Brigades (Wagner's Brigade on garrison duty at Chattanooga) withdrew from near Viniard's to the slope of Missionary Ridge west of Dyer House and beyond the Craw- fish Springs road. Early in the morning Wood was directed to relieve Negley on this ground. This was not accomplished until after 9:30 a. m., when the last of Negley 's Division passed to the left and Wood's line, with Barnes' Brigade, of Van C'eve's Division, which had come forward with Wood, was closed to the left on Brannan's Division. Upon the supposi- tion that Brannan had responded to an order sent him to move to the sup- port of the left. Wood was ordered, at 10:4.5 a. m., by General Rosecrans, to close ranidly on Reynolds and support him. Brannan being under attack at the moment of receiving the order held his line. Wood obeying literally, drew out of line and moved to the rear of Brannan, towards Reynolds. Barnes' Brigade at the beginning of the movement was dis- patched to Baird's support on the extreme left. Just as Barker's Brigade, moving next in rear of Barnes, had gained the rear of Brannan, Longstreet moved with a column of three Divisions of eight Brigades upon Wood's late front at the Brotherton house, penetrating the line, and dispersing Buell's Brigade, which was following Harker, and taking Brannan in reverse. Barker's Brigade promptly moved back into the Dyer field and attacked the head of the enemy's column with great vigor, which gave Brannan a chance to rally his command on Snodgrass Hill, where Harker soon joined him and held the left of the line on that part of the field until night. Frag- ments of Buell's Brigade rallied on Snodgrass Hill, where General Wood in person established his headquarters and co-operated with General Brfmnan in the defence of that position. The loss of the Division (two Brigades) for the two days, was, killed 132, wounded 744, missing 194, total 1,070. NO. 67 A. WOOD'S DIVISION. Brigadier-General T. J. Wood. Sept. 19-20, 1863. STAFF ON FIELD. CAPT. MARCUS P. BESTOW, U. S. V., Assistant Adjutant General. LIEUT. JOHN L. YARYAN, 58th Indiana, Aid-de-Camp. LIEUT. GEORGE SHAFFER, 93d Ohio, Aid-de-camp. LIEUT. -COL. THOS. R. PALMER, 13th Michigan, Inspector. SURGEON W. W. BLAIR, 58th Indiana, Medical Director. CAPT. L. D. MYERS, U. S. V., Assistant Quartermaster-General. CAPT. J. MCDONALD. U. S. V., Com. of Subsistence. CAPT. WM. McLOUGHLIN, 13th Michigan, Topographical Engineer. CAPT. JOHN E. GEORGE, 15th Indiana, Assistant Com. of Musters. LIEtJT. PETER HOLDMAN, 3d Kentucky, Ordnance Officer. CAPT. MICHAEL KEISER, 64th Ohio, Provost Marshal. CAPT. LUDLOW BRADLEY, 6th Ohio Battery, Chief of Artillery. PRIVATE ROBERT LEMON, 68th Indiana, Orderly. NATIONAL MILITARY PARK. 577 Other tablets for Wooers Division are located on the Lafayette road, opposite the Viniard house, where the hard fighting was done on Saturday evening. Indiana has appropriated $40,000 for the erection of mon- uments to the several organizations from this State that par- ticipated in the battle of Chickamauga. The position selected for the 58th Indiana Regiment is a few yards east of the Lafavette and Chattanooga road, opposite the Viniard house. This is where the Regiment did its hardest fighting on Saturdav evening, September 19th, and it was here that it suffered the heaviest loss of the two days' battle. The 58tli Indiana monument is constructed of Bedford limestone. It is 8^x4 feet at the base, and will stand 15 feet high. On the second base, which is 5 feet 10 inches by 4 feet 2 inches, there •appears the inscription " 58th Regiment Indiana Infantry." On top of this is a third base, 5 feet 3 inches by 4 feet, one foot thick. This supports a die 4 feet 6 inches by 2 feet 10 inches and 6 feet high. On top of this is a cap, and the whole is surmounted by an eagle, 2^x;^ feet. In front, on the upper part of the die, is the State seal of Indi- ana, in bronze. On the opposite side of the die is a bronze tablet which contains a brief history of the Regiment in the battle, as follows : FIFTY-EIGHTH REGIMENT INDIANA INFANTRY. This Regiment, in command of Lieutenant-Colonel Embree, went into action at this point about 2:45 p. m., Sep- tember 19th, charging the enemy across the road; left of Regiment penetrating a woods, where a severe engagement ensued. Loss heavy in killed and wounded. On morning of 20th moved to new position at Brotherton farm. When lines were broken, by movement of Brigade to the left, the Regi- ment was severed, but rallied again on Snodgrass Hill, and assisted in holding that point during the remainder of the day. On night of 21st the Regiment formed part of skirmish line, in command of Major Moore, which covered the move- ment of Rosecrans' army to Chattanooga. Loss in two days' battle: Killed, 16; wounded and missing, 155; total, 171. Stone markers, about 4 feet high and properly inscribed, are placed at the position occupied by the Regiment at the Brotherton iarm on the morning of the 20th, and on Snod- grass Hill, in the afternoon of that day. I lA^/S^J W^^^^ mj^WW LIBRARY OF CONGRESS 013 704 162 5