A HISTORICAL SKETCH 5 QUITMAN GUARDS SIXTEENTH MISSISSIPPI REGIMEM\ HABKIS' BRIGADE, From its Organization in Holmesville, 21st Afiul, 1861, to tub SyiiKExoKK OF THE AkMT of NORTHERN VIRGINIA, 9TH Al'RIL, 18t!5. BY ONE OF THE QUITMAN GUARDS. ^ (^^/^/^Y^ /^/^^ ^/ic'-^^ ^^- y^-^ap-^^J^—' / y/1^ ^ ^^^"/^/'^<.' -^ -^ ^ r' jf.j^ NEW ORLEANS: ISAAC T. HINTON, PRINTER, 27 COMMERCIAL PLACE. Entered according to an Act of Congress in the Clerk's OfBce of the United States District Court, for the Eastern District of Louisiana, hy Isaac T. Hinton, Februarj', 1860. TO COL. S. MCNEIL BAIN AND THE F F I C E K S AND MEMBERS OP THE QUITMAN GUARDS, WITH GRATEFUL REMEMBRANCE OP LONG ASSOCIATION, ^, THIS WORK IS RESPECTFULLY DEDICATED. 592012 V PREFACE The author of the following' pages was induced to engage in the work of preparing them for the public eye, by the earnest solicita- tions of those who feel a deep interest in the career of the "'Quit- man Gdaeds," and by the request of the remaining members of that company, by whose side he has stood in the scenes which he has so feebly depicted. Fully aware of his inability to prepare a work that would pass the ordeal of criticism, and interest the general reader, he shrank from the task, as beyond his capacity; but being unwilling that the heroic conduct and unwavering patriotism of the " Quitman Guards " should sink unrecorded into oblivion, he nerved himself for the task, and the following pages are the result- Having to write principally from memory, he could not, in many instances, give the exact date of important incidents, and hopes that any want of precision' that may be noticed, will be excused under the circumstances, as unavoidable. The author acknowledges, with profound gratitude, the assist- ance rendered by Charles Bancroft, Esq., Clerk of Probate of Pike county. A STATISTICAL REPORT 07 COMPANY E, SIXTEENTH MISSISSIPPI REGIMENT, For the Years 1861-'2-'g, and up to the 1st of May, 1864. The first ISIiister Roll of Comjpany E, Sixteenth Mississippi Regiment, organized at HolmesviUe, Pike County, Mississippi, April 21 st, 1861, and mustered into the Confederate States service In/ Captain Walker, at Corinth, Mississippi, on the 21th day of May, 1861.-. 1 S. A. Matthews Captain 2 James M. Nelson. . . . 1st Lieutenant 3 Thos. R. Stockdaie. ..2d Lieutenant 4 S. McNeil Bain od Lieutenant 5 Wm. McCuslcer 1st Sergeant 6 R. J. R. Bee 2d Sergeant 7 Golden Wilson 3d Sergeant 8 ¥'. P. Jolinson 4th Sergeant 9 L. W. (Jonerly 5th Sergeant 10 Lewis N. Coney 1st Corporal 11 R. T. Hart 2d Corporal 12 Warren R. Ratliff.. . . .3d Corporal 13 Chas. A. Ligon 4th Corporal 14 E. G. Cropper Ensign 15 Wm. Thad. Tyler. .Co. Commis'r'y 16 Andrews. E. C private 17 Ast, John " 18 Ard, A E " 19 Allen, George W •' 20 Barksdale, A. J " 21 Brent. J. Alexander " 22 Brent Geo. W " 23 Badon, H. B - 24 Eurkhalter, John T " 25 Eurkhalter, Chas " 26 Breed, E " 27 Barr, Thos. M « 28 Coney. Wm.L " 29 Coney, John H '•• 30 Crawford, Jesse D " 31 Cook, Thos. D " 32 Conerly, Mark R " ' Collins, Jos. W private Carter, Harvey C " Coney. Yan C " Fry. Chas. H ^' Friedrich, Phil. J •' Forest. Thos. Jeff " Forest, Benj. F '• FoiL.LD ." '■ Finch, William •• Finch, S.'eUis F " Gamer, William •' Gibson, Jesse F . " Guinea, Asa 11 " Gillespie. J. P ■> Holmes, John " Holmes, Benj " Hamilton, 0. C " Harvey, W. Pearn " Hamilton, Thomas " Howe. Chas " Hewson. George " Irwin, James " Jelks, Eugene W " Jewell, CoUingwood " Jones, H. L '• Ligon, Lem T " Lewis, Jesse W. B " Lewis, Benj. H .♦. . " Lewis, Martin L " Laney, E. A " Lamkin, Chas. A " Lamkin. Samuel R '' Muster Roll — Continued. VIII 65 Leonard, David private 66 Leonard, John " 67 Lawrence. Irvin Gr " 68 Luter, W. D *■ 69 Mcintosh, D. M » " 70 McGehee, Wm. F " 71 McGehee. J. G. L., Dr " 72 McGill, Henry " 73 McCusker, John '• 74 McNabb, James '■ 75 Mixou. A. R - 76 Matthews. G. N • 77 Martin, Wm 78 May, \Villiam •• 79 May, Jared B " 80 Morgan, Green W 81 Newman, Thos. II ■ 82 Neal, James N ■ 83 Netherland. Jos. N ■• 84 Pearson, Holden 85 Pendarvis, James " 86 Page, James " 87 Pearl, Seth W.. . 88 Root. George W .89 RatliffSlm 90 Regan, Thos. G. 91 Reeves, Wm. R.. 92 Rushing, E. T.. . 93 Stovall, Robt. D. 94 Southerland, Alex 95 Simmons. George B. 96 Sandell, S. M.... 97 Sparkman. A. P.. 98 Tarbutton. A. J. . 99 Tarver. John E. J 100 Travis. John Q. .. 101 Tisdale. Joseph M 192 Walker, John A.. 103 Walker, Anderson 104 Williams, Wash. L 105 Winborne, Benj. F 106 Wilson, R.D.. 107 Yarborongb, Wesley A List of RecruUs tcho have Joined the Company since the, Organization, and in tohat Year. 1 Andrews, Thos. J 1861|20 2 Boutwell, William 1863121 3 Bankston, B. D 1861 22 4 Barnes, B.L 1861 23 5 Barnett, Jas. A 1861 24 6 Conerly. Buxton R 1864 25 7 Colston, John A 1861 26 8 Douahoo. John A 186127 9 Estess,Wm. A 1861 28 10 Foxworth, George 1861 29 11 Guy, Jesse W 1861 30 12 Guy, Wm. Jeff 1861 31 13 Garner. Ranson 1861 1 32 14 HolhiWay, Tho.s. P 1861 1 33 15 Kolloway, Felix H 1865,34 16 Hartwell. Chas. E 1864 35 17 Lamkin, Wm. J. . . ." 1862 36 18 Lamkin, Tilman S . . . ' 1864 37 19 Lyles,JohnY 186l|38 McGehee, H. J 1861 Miller, George W 1861 Magee, Wm. Levi 1861 Newman, Joseph li 1861 Newman, John A ; .1861 Payne, Wm. L . . 1861 Rushing, Warren T 1861 Rhodus. Reeves. 1861 Stanford, James D 1851 Sandifer, H. D 18,61 Sparkman, Wm. L 1862 Scarborough. Henry 1862 Simmons, Jeff. B 1861 . Smith, C. C 1361 Smith, George l."S.'l Smith, Dan. J..... 1861 Welch, Samuel ISiJl Watts. Arthur T 1S»,:1 Wilson, Matthew 1881 A List of Men Killed, in Battle on the Field. 1 Joseph AV. Collins Killed in battle at Cold Harbor, Va.. June 2d. 1862 2 Je.sse W. Guy " '• at Sharpsburg, Md., Sept 17th, 1862 3 Asa H. Guinea " " at Gbancellorsville, May 1st, 1863 4 John A. Newman " " at Chancellorsville, Mp.y 1st, 1863 A List of Wounded in Battle, tcken and where. IX 1 John Holmes, 2d Lieutenant Richmond, Va.. Jnne 27, 1862. 2 Van C. Coney, 2d Lieutenant Sharpshnig, Md., Sept. 17, 1862. 3 J. Q. Travis, 3d Lieutenant Ciaancellorsville, Va. , May 1st. 1863. 4 Wm. McCnsker, 2d Sergeant Sliarpsburg, Md. , Sept. 17, 1862. 5 Benj . Holmes, 3d Sergeant Manassas, Va. , August 30, 1862. f) Mat. Wilson. 5th Sergeant Manassas, Va. , August 30. 1862. 7 A. E. Ard, 4th Corporal Sharpsburg, Md., Sept. 17, 1862. 8 Barr. T . M . , private Sharpsburg, Md . , Sept . 17, 1862 . 9 Bankston. B . D . do Manassas. Va., August 30, 1862. 10 Conerly, L. W. do .Sharpsburg, Md. , Sept. 17, 1862. n ■!?„„„+ T' T,.(f /]r, ( Chan cello rsville. Va.. May 3, 1863. 11 l^orest, 1. Jefl. do \ n ^t i r> ' t i o io.-q j Gettysburg, Fa., July 3. 1863. 12 Garner, Wm. do Cross Kejs, Va., June 8. 1862. 13 Lamkin, W. J. do Manassas, Va . , July 21, 1881. 14 Leonard, David do Sharpsburg, Md.. Sept. 17, 1862. 15 May, Jared B. do Cross Keys, Va. , June 8, 1862. 16 Ratliff, Sim. do Chancellbrsville, Va , May 1, 1863. 17 Payne, Wm. L. do Chancellorsville, Va.. May 1, 1863. 18 Reeves. W. R. do Gettysburg-. Pa.. July 4, I'SGS. 19 Root. Geo. W. do Richmond': Va , June 27. 1862. 20 Rhodus, R . - do Sharpsburg, Md. , Sept. 17, 1862. 21 Sparkman, A. P. do Cross Keys, Va., June S. 1862. 22 Simmons. Geo. B. do Richmond, Va., June 27, 1862. 23 Tarbutton, A.J. do Sharpsburg, Md., Se.pt* 17. 1862. 24 Walker. John A. do Manassas, Va. , August 30, 1862. 25 Williams. W. L. do Manassas. Va. . August 30. 1862. 26 Wilson, Colden, 1st Lieut; ....?... .Sharpsburg, Md., Sept. 17, 1862. 27 Yarb o'rough. Wes. private Cross Keys, Va. , Jnne 8th, 1862. A List of Men who have Lied of Lisease, when and tohere. 1 Allen, Geo. Yv'. private Warrenton. Va. , Jan. 17, 1862. 2 Barnes, B. L. do Page's Land. Va., Sept. 27, 1861. 3 Burkhalter, Chas. do Lynchburg, Va., July. 1861. 4 Brent, Geo. W. do Richmond, Va . .April 8, 1862 . 5 Coney, Lewis, 1st Corporal Corinth, Miss. , July 29, 1861. 6 Coney, John H. private Gordonsville. Va.. March 19, 1862. 7 Carter, Harvey C . do Lynchburg. Va . . Feb . 4, 1862 . 8 Foxworth, Geo. do Richmond. Va. . Dec. 28, 1861. 9 Finch, Mm . do Holmesville, Miss . , Aug . 2, 1861 . 10 Finch, MilusF. do Richmond, Va.. Aug. 20, 1862. 11 Foil, J. D. do Manassas. Va., Feb. 28, 1862. 12 Hamilton. Thos . do Corinth, Miss . , June 30, 1861 . 13 Harvey, Pearl do Corinth, Miss., Julv 14, 1861. 14 Howe, Chas. do Hawks' Bill Valley, Va., June 1, '62. 15 Johnson. F. P. do Corinth, Miss. , June 17, 1861. 16 Jones. H. L. do Lynchburg, Va., March 6, 1862. 17 Lewis. J. W. B. do Manassas. Va., Feb. 16, 1862. 18 Lewis, B.H. do Corinth, Miss. June 12. 1861. 19 Luter, W. D. do Corinth, Miss., July 21, 1861. 20 McNabb. Jas. do Warrenton, Va.. Jan. 1, 1862. 21 Magee, Wm . Levi do Charlottsville, Va. , May 6, 1862. 22 Pendarvis, James do Manassas, Va . . Feb . 8, 1862 . 23 Smith, Dan. J. do Richmond, Va., March 11. 1862. 24 Walker, Anderson do Centerville, Va. , Sept. 23, 1861 . Southern Pamphlets Rare Book Collection UNC-Chapel Hiil X A List of Disabled Aim. J . Q . Travis 3(1 Lieutenant Cankston. B. D ^ Private. Garnei', Wm do Leonard. David do Rhodus Reeve.s do Root, G. W do Sparkman, A. P do Williams, W . L do Loss of right hand . Shot in hip. Shot in hip and thigh . Shot in hip and thigh . Shot in shoulder. Shot in both knees. Shot in groin. Loss of left arm . A List, of Men Discharged avd Transferred and where to. 1 Ast, John Discharged from the army. 27 Lewis, Martin L . . Co. A., IGthMiss Transferred . Regt. to 2 Breed, B do 28 May, William. .. .Discharged from 3 Barnes, Jas. A. do the army. 4 Barksdale, A. J do 29 Morgan, Green W. do 5 Barr,T.M do 30 McGehee,J.G.L.dr. do 6 Cropper. E. G. . do 31 McCusker, John.. . do 7 Cook, Thos. D.. do 32 Mcintosh, D. M... Transferred to 8 Coleston, Jno. A fio Co. C, IGthMiss. Reg't 9 Conerly, M. R.. do 33 Martin, William . . Transferred to 10 Coney, Wm. L. . do 2d Co. Washington Art'y 11 Crawford, J. D.. do 34 Neal. James Discharged fr om 12 Estess, W. A . . . . do the army. 13 Forest, B. F.... do 35 Netherland, J. A. do 14 Gibson, Jesse F. do 36 Newman, J. B. . ♦do 15 Gillespie. J. P.. do 37 Pearl, Seth do 16 Garner. Wm .... do 38 Ratliflf, Warren P. do 17 Hamlin, 0. C... do 39 Rhodus, Reeves. . do 18 Hewson, Geo. . . Transferred to 40 Rushing, W. T... do Co. D, 10th Mi 5S. Reg't. 41 Smith, C. C do 19 HoUoway, T. P. Discharged from 42 Sparkman A. P. . do the army. 43 Sutherland, Alex. do 20 Garner, Rans . . . do 44 Tisdale,JM do 21 Irwin, Jas do 45 Welch, Samuel . . . do 22 Laney, E . A . . . Transferred to 4(3 Williams, W. L... do 15th Ala. Rcg't 47 AVatts, A. T Transferred to 23 Leonard, John. . Discharged from the army . Co. A, IGthMiss .Reg't. 24 Lamkin, Chas. A do 25 Ligon, Chas. A. do 26 Lawrence, IrvinG do A List of Men who have Died of their Wounds. 1 Colden Wilson, 1st Lieutenant. . .Died at Shepardstown, Va., Oct. 23, 18G2. 2 George B. Simmons, Private Died at Richmond, Va., Jnly 17, 1862. 3 Wesley Yarborough, Private Died near Port Republic, Va., 1862. Officers Promoted from the Ranks, awl Date of each. XI 1 R. J. R. Bee. 3d Lieut., promoted from 2d Serg't to 3d Lieut., June, 18G1. 2 Golden Wilson, 1st Lt, promoted from 2d Serg't to 1st Lieut., April 2(1, ] 8G2. 3 John Holmes, 2d Lieiit., promoted from Corporal to 2d Lieut., April, 18G2 and to 1st Lieutenant, March, 1863. 4 Van C. Coney, 3d Lieut., promoted from Corporal to 3d Lieut., April 26, 1862 and to 2d Lieut., March, ^S63. 5 J. Q. Travis, 3d Lieut., promoted from 1st Serg't to 3d Lieutenant April 11, 18G3, for meritorious conduct. 6 R. T. Hart, Assistant Surgeon, promoted from ranks to Assistant Surgeon, 1862, to duty at Jackson, Missis.sippi. List of those who have been in the Service and have discharged their duties creditably up to April, 1864. 1 S. McNeil Bain, Captain 2 John Holmes, 1st Lieutenant 3 Van C. Coney, 2d Lieutenant 4 J. Q. Travis, 3d Lieutenant 5 E. C. Andrews 1st Sergeant G "Wm. JMcCusker, 2d Sergeant 7 Benj. Holmes 3d Sergeant 8 R. D. Stovall 4th Sergeant 9 Matthew Wilson 5th Sergeant 10 Geo. Smith 1st Corporal 11 H. B. Badon 2d Corporal 12 A. E. Ard 4th Corporal 13 A. R. Mixon. . Reg't Color Serg't 14 Phil. J. Friedrich Musician 1.5 Chai-les H. Fry Musician 16 G. N. Matthews Musician 17 Andrews, Thomas Private 18 Bee, R. J. R " 19 Brent, J. Alex " 20 Burkhalter. John T •' 21 Conerly. Luke W " 22 Forest, T.J " 23 Guy, Wm. F " 24 Jelks, Eugene W Private 25 Jewell. Collingwood " 26 Lamkin, Wm. J " 27 Ligon, Lemuel T " 28 Lamkin, Samuel R " 29 McGehee, Wm. F " 30 Miller, Geo. W " 31 May. Jared B " 32 McGill, Henry •' 33 Newman, Thos. H " 34 Page, Jas '• 35 Pearson, Holden " 36 Payne, Wm.L " 37 Ratliif, Simeon " 38 Rushing, E. T " 39 Reeves, W. R " 40 Sandall,S.M " 41 Standford, Jas. D " 42 Sandifer, H.D " 43 Tarver, John E. J " 44 Tyler, Wm. Thad " 45 W^alker, John A " 43 Winborn, B. F " A List of Men taken Prisoner, lohere, and how long confined. 1 Luke W. Conerly, in Shenandoah Valley, June 27, 1862, confined at Wash- ington, D. C, 40 days. 2 Samuel B. Lamkin, in Shenandoah Valley, June 12, 18G2, confined at Camp • Chase, Ohio, 59 days. 3 Geo. Smith, at Chaucellorsville, Va., May 4, 1863, confined at Washington, D. C. 20 days. 4 Vr. R. Reeves, VVilliamsport, Md., July, 1863, don't know where sent. Birth Place, Occupation and Sesidenrx of Officers in time of peace. S. A. Matthews, Captain, born in Ohio, lawyer ; residence, Holmesville, Miss. Retired by re-organization of the army, April 26, 18G2. Jas. M. Nelson, 1st Lieut., born in Tenn., physician ; residence " Retired by re-organization of the army, April 26, 1862. Thos. R. Stockdale, 2d Lieut., born in Penn., lawyer ; residence " Promoted to Major, June, 18G1, and retired by re-organization of the army, April 26, 1862. XII Blrih Place, Occupation and Residence of Officers — Continued. i S. McNeil Bain, 3d Lieut., bora in N. Y., Principal of Academy : residence, Holniesville, Mississippi. Promoted to Captain, April 26, 1862, by re-organizaton ol the army. 5 R. J. R. I3ee, 3d Lieut., born in Georgia, clerk ; residence. Magnolia, Miss. Retired by re-organization of the army, April 26, 1862, but afterwards re-formed the company, September, 1863. G Van C. Coney, 3d Lieut., born in Miss., planter ; residence, Holmesville, Miss. Promoted to 3d Lieutenant by re-Organization of the army, April 26, 1862— afterwards promoted 2d Lieut, March 18, 1863. 7 Golden WiJ^son, 1st Lieut., born in Miss., clerk ; residence " Promoted 1st Lieut, by re-organization of the army, Apri! 26, 1862. S John Plolmcs, 2d Lieut., born in Miss., merchant ; residence, • " Promoted to 2d Lieut, by re-organization of the army, April 26, 1862, and afterwards promoted to 1st Lieutenat, March 18, 1863. 9 J. Q. Travis, od Lieut., born in Miss., mechanic ; residence, Magnolia, Miss. Promoted from 1st Sergeant to 3d Lieut., April II. 1863, for meritorious conduct on the battle field. Muster Roll of Compatnj E, I'oth Mississippi Regiment, of the Present and Absent, April 1, 1864 1 2 John Holmes 1st Lieutenant 3 Van C. Couey 2d Lieutenant 4 J. Q. Travis 3d Lieutenant 5 E. C. Andrews 1st Sergeant 6 Wm. McCusker 2d Sergeant 7 Benj. Holmes 3d Sergeant 8 Rob t. D. Sto vail 4th Sergeant 9 Matthew AVilsou 5th Sergeant 10 Geo. Smith 1st Corporal 11 Jeff. E. Simmons 2d Corporal 12 Henry B. Bacon 3d Corporal 13 A. E. Ard 4th Corporal 14 A. R. ]\Iixon . . . Reg't- Color Serg't 15 Phil. J. Friedrich Musician 16 Chas. H. Fry Musician 17 Geo. N. Matthews Musician 18 Andrews, Thos. J Private 19 Bee, R.J. R " 20 Brent, J. Alexander •' 21 Burkhalter. John T " 22 Boutwell, AVm " 23 Bankston, B. D •' 24 Conerly, Luke W *' 25 Conerly, Buckstown R '• 26 Donahoo, John A " 27 Forest, Thos. Je.ff '•• 28 Guy, Wm. Jeff ^' 29 Jelks, Eugene W " 30 Jewell, CoUingwood " 31 Hartwell, Chas. E " 32 Ligon, Lem. T Private 33' Lamkin, Samuel R " 34 Lamkin, AVni. 2d Lieutenant ; R. J. R. Bee, 3d Lieutenant, retired April 26, 1862. u cf, c*«4i-^ >ii* A Statistical Report of Company E, Sixteenth Mississippi Regiment for the Campaign of 1864, and dp to the Surrender of the Northern Army op Virginia, April 9th, 1865. A List of Mm- Killed in Satlle, {on the field,) When and Where. 1 E. T. Rushing, private, Idlled at Bloody Bend, (Spotsylvania C. H., Va.,) May 12, 18(J4. ' 2 A. R. Mixon, Regt. Color Sergeant, killed at Bloody Bend, (Spotsylvania C. H., Va.,) May 12, 1864. 3 J. D. Standford, private, killed at Turkey Ridge, Va., June 6. 1864. 4 Mat. Wilson, 5th Sergeant, killed at Wilderness, Va.. May 6, 1864. 6 A. E. Ard, 4th Corporal, killed on Weldon Railroad, Va., Aug. 21, 1864. 6 T. S. Lamkin, private, " " '• 7 W. L. Sparkman. private, killed at Petersburg, Va., April 3, 1865. 8 Robt. D. Stovall. 4th Serg't, " 9 Jas. Page, private, killed in the trenches in front of Petersburg, Oct. 9, 1864. List of Men who have Died of Disease. 1 S. M. Sandall, died in hospital at Richmond, Va., July, 1864. 2 J. Y. Lyles, supposed to have died somewhere in Virginia in 1862. 3 W. R. Reeves, supposed to have died while a prisoner in 1863. A List of Men Wounded in the Camjpaign of 1864 and 1865. 1 J. A. Walker, wounded at Turkey Ridge, Va., June, 1864. 2 L. T. Ligon, " " " 3 X. J. Forest, " in the trenches in front of Petersburg, July, 1864. 4 J. A. Donahoo. " " '• •' Sept., 1864. 5 J. Alex. Brent, " " '• " " 6 H. Pearson, wounded on the Weldon Railroad, August 21, 1864. 7 Sam. R. Lamkin, " " " 8 W.J. Lamkin, " '^ " 9 H. D. Sandifer, wounded at Spotsylvania C. H.. May 12. 1864. 10 L. W. Conerly, n R.D. Stovall, " " " . A List of Men Captured in the Ca^mpaign 0/1864 amd 1865. 1 S. McNeil Bain, Captain, captured on Weldon Railroad, August 21, 1864. 2 John Holmes, Ist Lieut, " " 3 Van C. Coney, 2d Lieut, " " 4 E. C. Andrews, 1st Sergt, " " 5 W.McCusker, 2d Sergt, " " 6 Benj. Holmes, 3d Sergt; " " 7 Burkhalter, J. T., private, captured at Petersburg, Va., July, 1865. 8 Jewell, CoUinwood, private, captured on Weldon Railroad, Aug. 21, 1864. 9 Newman, Thos. H., private, captured at Petersburg. September, 1864. 10 Jelks, E. W. 11 Miller, Geo. W. " " " 12 Lamkin, S. R., private, captured on Weldon Railroad, August 21, 1864. 13 McGehee, W.F. '^ ■' £< 14 McGehee, H. J. •' '.' ^' " M. XIV Lisi of Men Captured — Continued. 15 Pearson, H., private, captured on Weldon Railroad, August 21, 1864. 16 Walker, John A. " " '■ " 17 Saudifer, H. D., captured at Bloody Bend, Va., May 12, 1864. 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 List of Men Captured April, 1865. Andrews, Thos. J Private Badon. H. B " Bankston, B. D " Conerly, B. R " Conerly, L. W " Fry, Chas. H " Friedrich, Phil. J " Hartwell, Chas. E " HoUoway, Felii H " Lamkin, W. J " ~ Ligon, L. T " 29 Matthews, Geo. N Private 30 May, JaredB " 31 Pearson, H •" 32 Root, Geo. W " 33 Reagan, Thos. G " 34 Scarborough, H " 35 Smith, George " 36 Tyler, Wm. Thaddeus '• 37 Tarver. John E. J » 38 Wilson, R. D " 39 Winborn,B. F " A List of Men Disabled. 1 Thos. Jeff. Forrest, lost use of left arm by explosion of a shell, July, 1864. 2 Sam. R. Lamkin, lost left arm by shell, August 21, 1864. 3. J. A. Brent, shot in the head by Minie ball, September, 1864. 4 H. D. Sandifer, shot in legs, May 12, 1864. Men Transferred, and to Wliat Command. Henry McGill, to 2d Company Washington Artillery. List of Men Living and Belonging to Company E, Sixteenth Mississippi Regiment, May 1. 1865. 1 S. McNeil Bain, Captain 2 John Holmes, 1st Lieutenant 3 Van C. Coney, 2d Lieutenant 4 J. Q. Travis, 3d Lieutenant 5 E. C. Andrews, 1st Sergeant 6 Wm. McCusker, 2d Sergeant 7 Benj. Holmes, 3d Sergeant 8 Geo. Smith 1st Corporal 9 Jeif. E. Simmons 2d Corporal 10 H. B. Bado n 3d Corporal 11 Andrews, Thos. J Private 12 Brent, J. Alex " 13 Bankston, B. D " 44 Boutwell,Wm " 22 Burkhalter, John T " 16 Bee, R. J. R " 17 Conerly, Luke W " 18 Conerly,B. R " 19 Donahoo, John A " 20 Forest, T.J " 21 Friedrich, Phil. J " 22 Fry, Charles H " 23 Guy, Wm. F " 24 Hartwell, Chas. E " 24 HoUoway, Felix H " 26 Jelks, Eugene W; Private 27 Jewell, CoUingwood " 28 Lamkin, Samuel R " 29 Lamkin, Wm. J " 30 Leonard, David " 31 Ligon, Lemuel T " 32 Matthew, Geo. N " 33 McGehee, Wm. F " 34 McGehee, Handsford J " 35 May. Jared B " 36 Miller, Geo. W " 37 Newman, Thos. H " 38 Payne, Wm.L " 39 Pearson, Holden " 40 Ratlifif, Simeon " 41 Regan, Thos. G " 42 Root. George W " 43 Sandifer, Hansford D " 44 Scarborough. Henry " 45 Tarver, John E. J " 46 Tyler, Wm. Thad " 47 Tarbutton, A J. .■ •' 48 Wilson, R. D " 49 Winboru,B. F " 40 Walker. John A " Officers Promoted. XV S. McNeil Bain, Captain, promoted from Captain to Lieut. Colonel of Sixteenth Mississippi Regiment. Recapitulation of Company E, May 1, 1865. Men Enlisted May 27, 1861 107 Men Recruited in 1863, '64, '65 38 Total. . .' 145 Men who have died from Disease 27 Men who have been killed in battle 13 Men who have died from wounds received in battle 3 Men who have been discharged and transferred 48 Officers who have been retired by the re-organization of the army 4 Men living and belonging to the company May 1, 1865 50 Total • 145 A Statement of the Quitman Guards from the first organization lop to the time of being placed in the Sixteenth Mississippi Regiment, and knoion as Company E, of said Regiment, 7ip to the surrender of the Army of Northern Virginia, April 9th, 1865. The Quitman Guards were organized at Holmesville, Pike County, Mississippi, on the 21st day of April, 1861, and then mus- tered into the service of the State of Mississippi by Capt. GriflSth> and on the 26th day of May, 1861, left the town of Holmesville to rendezvous at Corinth, Mississippi, and on the 2tth day of May, 1861, were mustered into the service of the Confederate States by Capt. Walker, and assigned a place in the Sixteenth Mississippi Regiment as Company E of said Regiment. JOHN HOLMES, 1st Lieutenant, Com'd'g Co. E, Uth Miss. Reg., C. S. A. HISTORICiL SKETCfl OF THE OUITMM SHARDS. CHAPTER I. Organization of tlie Ooixipany. In 1861, when the political elements of our country began to be disturbed, when the Southern States began to withdraw fiom the Federal Union, when Mississippi had passed the ordinance of secession and war seemed inevitable, a call was made by Governor J. J. Pettus for volunteers to enlist in the service of the Stite, in order to defend a right which she deemed just and honorable. It was proposed to raise a company in Holmcsville, the county site of Pike, to respond to the Governor's call. Npr were the sons of old Pike deaf to that call; but, filled witl; a spirit of devotion to Southern interest, and actuated by the stern necessities of the times, with hearts throbbing fervently for the love of their homes and their State, they readily responded to the call that had been made by the Governor for them, and soc:"" a compan}^ of one hun- dred and seven men were gathered together and subscribed their names to the list of volunteers. The organization was soon made complete, and Samuel A. Matthews, long a resident of Pike, and well known to all her citizens, was given the honorable and very responsible position of captain of this excellent companj'. The company was composed of men of almost every profession. Law- yers, doctors, farmers, blacksmiths, machinists, carpenters, shoe- makers, tailors, jewelers, etc., all united to operate in one common cause, to share alike the marches, the fatigues, the trials and the sufferings which it was but natural that they should undergo in following a military life. As soon as official information was received in the military' department of the State of the organiza- lion of the Quitman Guards, a name given to the company in honor of one of Mississippi's heroic sons who figured extensively in the Mexican war, and a name which they felt it an feonor to bear, Captain Griffith, (afterwards Brigadier-General in the Con- federate States service) was sent to Holmesvilie to muster the company into the service of the State; and on tlie 21st of April, 1861, Captain Matthews assembled his company for that purpose. They were drawn up in line on the court house square, in the pre- sence of a large assemblage of ladies — some of the fairest of Pike, and after a very handsome speech from Captain Griffith, in which he reminded them of the sufferings the}' would have to undergo, in case hostilities, which had, already begun between the Federal government and some of the seceded States, should continue, they were mustered into the service of the State. Little did that band of patriots dream of tlie task before themj little did they think of being engaged in a devastating war that would desolate their land, and whose magnitude was unparalleled by any of modern date in regard to its fierceness and human carnage. But they heeded not the dangers or the sufferings; they bad hearts that could dare and do; hearts that were not to be intimidated by the thoughts of dangers or the sufferings that lay before them. Oh I how their bosoms swelled with pride and patriotism as they stood there on that old square in the bloom of manhood, in the presence of so many of Pike's fairest daughters, their mothers, their sisters, and those for whom their youthful hearts beat quicker in the hopes of future happiness, who had come to see them take the vow to defend their homes and their dearest interest. And what must have been the feelings of those ladies while they gazed upon their manly forms, as they stood there promising their lives as a sacrifice at the shrine of their country's honor — a living wall between them and those who would injure them or deprive them of their just rights. After they were mustered in, and the organization was an- nounced as complete, and the men were informed that they were then at the disposal of the State, they wei'e dispersed, and each man returned to his liomc to await orders, assembling now and then for the purpose of drilliug-, aud acquiriug- a ki)owledg-e of military science. At last, after waiting in suspense for a inontli, orders came to Captain Matthews to report his company at Corinth, Mississippi, the place chosen for the rendezvous of Mississippi troops. Everytliing was made ready as early as possible; and on the 26th of May, 1861, the company met at Magnolia station, on the New Orleans, Jackson and Great Northern railroad, for the purpose of embarking on the cars. Here we can but pause for a moment, though some may deem it unnecessary, to give a brief account of the scenes exhibited at Magnolia. The friends and relatives of the company assembled tliere to bid them a long adieu. All ages and sexes were gathered together, and among them stood the volunteers. All was excitement. There was the venerable man, the aged and indulgent father, with -wrin- kled and careworn brow, whose honored locks dangling around his stooped shoulders, plainly told that his stay on earth would be brief; that that might be his last parting with his boy, whom he had reared with so much solicitude and cave. There was the aged mother, whose earnest solicitude had always been for her boy from his earliest infancy, and whose most profound feelings of anxiety beamed brighter than ever — a lovely similitude to angels, we ima- gine, which mothers so often exhibit towards their children, and which is enough to stay the most reckless consgience, aiid humble the proudest heart. There were the sisters ; and you who have them know too well how fondly ti:ey cling to their brothers. Even the little children seemed to feel the importance of the occasion, and were frequently heard to ask : " Mother, where is brother going ?" which was responded to only with a tear from the mother's eyes. Then there were the lovers, with hope.s deferred but promises renewed, all mingling in sorrow. The reckless heart could but be humbled tliere. Tears ilowod from e3'es that were seldom known to weep before; and upon the whole, there was a solemn grandeur aud sublimity imparted to the scene which cannot be conceived except by those who have experienced the anguish of heart when bidding adieu, perhaps foi-ever, to those uiubl loved. Tiio cai'is were boarded, auil the powerful iocomoiive, unconscious of the preciousness of its freight, with rapid strokes bore them swiftly from their homes. The company arrived at Corinth, a small town in T county, situated at the junction of the Aiemphis and Charleston and Mobile and Ohio railroads, on the 2Tth of May, pitched their tents in reg- ular military order, and were soon after mustei-ed into the service of the Confederate States, and were, with nine other companies, formed into a regiment, whose names we will mention, with some of their oflicers, (as near as we can remember,) because their destiny was alike with ours, and their unhappy fate the same. They were as follows : Summit Rifles, Company "A," Captain Murphy, from Pike county; Weslville Guards, Company "B," Captain Funches, from Simpson count}-; Chrystal Springs Southern Rights, Company "C," Captain Davis, from Copiah county; Adams Light Guards, Com- pany " D,'" Captain Clark, from Natchez, Mississippi; Quitman Guards, Company " E,"' Captain Matthews, from Pike county; Jas- per Grays, Company " F," Captain Shannon, from Jasper county; Fair View Rifles, Company '' G," Captain Moore, from Claiborne county; Smith Defenders, Corapan}' " H," Captain Hardy, from Smith county; Adams Light Guards, Company ''I," Captain Wal- worth, from Natchez, Mississippi; Wilkinson Rifles, Company " K," Captain Posey, from AVilkinsoa county. Captain Carnot Posey, of the Wilkinson Rifles, was elected Colonel of the regiment, and A. M. Feltus was elected captain in his stead. Captain Robert Clarke, of Company " D," Adams Light Guards, was elected Lieu- tenant-Colonel, and Samuel E. Baker -was elected captain in his stead. Lieutenant Thomas R. Stockdale, of tbv: Quitman Guards, was elected Major of the regiment, and the vacancy in the company was lilled by tlio election of S. M. Bain to the office of second lieu- tenant, and R. J. R. Bee to the office of third lieutenant. This regiment being formed, the officers commenced the regular duties of camp — company and regimental drill, guard duty, fatigue, Sec. It will be necessary in future to make mention of the different brigades, divisions and corps to which this regiment was attached during' the war, as it would be difficult to give aL.ycliiiig like a correct historical account of the adventures of the Quitraan Guards without it. Unhappily for them, soon after their arrival at Corinth diseases got among them, which prostrated a large num- ber on the bed of sickness. The measles seemed to be as fatal as other diseases, and sickuQ^ spread so rapidly that it became necessary to separate the company from the regiment, there being scarcely a sufficient number of well men to give tho necessary attention to the sick. The following named comrades died at Corinth: Benjamin Lewis, F. P. Johnson, Pearl Harvey, Thomas Hamilton and Lewis Coney. They died with their armor brightly burnished for the iight, regret- ting that they must yield to fell disease the life they would fain sacrifice upon the altar of their country. They exchanged the clangor of arms and the booming of cannon for the symphonies wafted from angelic harps; scenes of carnage for the Elysian fields of the land of angels.' Crowned and resturcd with heaven's glory, they wall live in eternal sinless youth, in that bright sphere where war is unknown. Do the inhabitafits of that bright land look dow' n upon the transactions of life ? If so, then will al! our comrades in heaven see that the tear of memory wells up as we speak their names, and trickles down our check;;; when we tell how we loved them. . No stone marks their resting places, but their memory will live engraven on the heart.'? of all who knew them, until they cease to palpitate. Rest, dear departed comrade^-, resti the final trump will ere long be sounded, and may Cod grant tliat we may be united, never, never, never to part again. The company remained at Corinth two months Lacking two days.- During this time they were constantly receiving news of battles being fought in different portions of the South, w^here the Federal forces would invade and attack tiie Confederates, and were suc- cessfully repulsed and driven from the field Such news inspired them with greater courage and brighter hopes, and they began to get restless, which was na,tura], upon reading- the news of the splendid victories in which their fellow soldiers participated, and which were portrayed to them iu «uch g^lowiug, such patriotic and exciting words. The common talk of camp was in regard 1o receiv- ing orders to go to Manassas, the seat of war, where the memo- rable battle of the 21st of July, 1861, had been fought, and where the Federal forces were so severely defeated, "On to Virginia" was the watchword; that would be the battle ground; there was where all the fighting was going on, and the fear among the men was that the war would be over before their term of enlistment expired, and tliey would not get to fight a battle. On the 22d of July, after the men had cooked and eaten their supper, and began to engage in their usual pastime of passing away the evening, some dancing, some singing, and some smoking and talking, the news came along the electric wires of the battle of Bull Run, and its results. In a short time the news v/as spread through the camps, and was received with vociferous shouts fi'om the five thousand Mississippians camped around Corinth, who were burning so eagerly to engage in some of those combats, and reap some of the rewards of those splendid victories, of which they had heard so much said. On the 24th day of July, Colonel Posey received orders to repair with his regiment to Virginia. The men were ordered to prepare five days' rations, and to make other necessary preparations for the journey. Early in tiie morning of the 25th, the tents were struck, the^ baggage packed and hauled to the depot, and the men got aboard of the train. Previous to receiving orders, Captain Matthews was granted a furlough to return to Holmesville to visit his family, arrange his business, and make such arrangements for the Quitman Guards as were necessary for their comfort and welfare, and Lieutenant (Dr.) Nelson assumed command of the company. The train left Corinth about one o'clock on the 25th of July, 1861, with the Sixteenth Mississippi regiment on board, bound for Virginia. CHAPTER II. Tlae .Jovirney to Virginia. Crowded in box cars, with hard plauk seats, and but little air — such as was whirled in by the vapid motion of the cars — would lead one to suppose that there could be but little enjo'^meut in such a long journey. But relieved from the monotony of camp life, and the rigid discipline incident to it, wirh the prospects of activity in the future, and beholding the beautiful scenery along the route from Corinth to Virginia, the men were all cheerful and seemingly contented. Yet amid the gaiety that seemed every where to prevail, thoughts of home and the dear ones there, would rush almost unbidden upon tiie mind of the soldier; but sadness was replaced by the firm resolve to die, if necessary, in defending home, relatives, country and friends. Wit and humor seemed to be very prevalent among some of the members of the Quitman Guards, and in spite of the noise and jolting of the cars, the oppressive heat, and the almost stifling, dusty air, mirth and good humor would abound. Along the roadside where there were dweiling.5, and at the stopping places, the ladies were gathered together, robed in the fashions of the day, with bouquets of flowers and ever- greens, displaying all their natural elegance, and exhibiting all their powers of attraction. This was enough to cause the past to be buried in oblivion, to give new courage to the soldier, and inspire him with bright hopes of the future. The wild forest, the rippling streams, the beautiful and well cultivated farms, the ripen- ing grain, the fine i^esidences, the beautiful flower yards with their delightful fragrance, all lent their aid towird entertaining the travelers in their long, wearisome journey to Virginia. Emerging from the pine hills of Mississippi and Alabama, and entering the Cumberland mountains of Tennessee — to those who had never seen a mountain the scenery was truly sublime. Towering peaks in their stately grandeur, overhanging rocks and stooping trees, deep gorges and sparkling waterfalls, with the works of art wind- 8 ing round the steep mountain sides, the dashing car with its lighl_ ning speed, bidding defiance to nature's work, filled the mind with wonder and veneration. The opportunity afforded by the stopping of the cars was eagerly embraced by the men to slake their thirst at the crystal fountains that ever gush in limpid cool- ness from the mountaiu side, or in gathering wild flowers, the favorites of lier who was the subject of their day and night dreamn. And often, when the time afforded was sufficient to permit it, they were invited to the residence of some generous citizen, to partake- of such repast as did not oi'ten'fall to the soldier's lot. The regiment arrived at Chattanooga, Tenn., on the 27th of July, and took the train for Knoxville. Much had been said of the opposition on the part of the citizens of East Tennessee to troops passing through that portion of the State, and on this account much difficulty, if not fighting, was anticipated by the regiment in their passage through; but the conduct of the officers, in enforcing and preserving strict discipline, earned for themselves and their command the kindness and civility of the citizens, though diametrically opposite political sentiments agitated them. The regiment arrived at Cleveland, about ten o'clock in the morning of the 28th instant, at which place it was delayed for .several hours. Many citizens gathered around the cars, cheering the soldiers and calling on the officers for speeches. Captain Hardy, of the Smith Defenders, responded, and delivered a touching address to the assembly; alter which a voice was heard calling the name of Major Stockdale, and immediately the name of the gallant Major was shouted by a thousand tongues. He arose from his position, on the top of the cars, in that inimitable manner which is so charac- teristic of him, and looking around at the vast concourse of men and women, and not forgetting his comrades, said: " Fellow-citi- zens of East Tennessee, and you, too, my fellow soldiers. War is upon us — its dread tocsin has been sounded throughout the length and breadth of the North American continent. In the wilds of Mississippi it has reverberated, it has re-echoed from hill to hill; nor has it sounded in vain — like knights of liberty the sons of Mis- 9 sissippi have rushed from their comfortable homes to see what that alarm meant. 'Twas war's dread alarm. They believed their rights and their liberties would be invaded, and they have defi- antly buckled on the sword; and there is not a heart throbbing in the breast of one of its hardy sons, but that is resolved to do or die. You see before you, fellow-citizens, specimens of these deter- mined men." He enumerated in a brief and eloquent manner some of the causes which induced the two sections to take up arms against each other, and portrayed the horrors that always follow a civil war. During his speech the utmost stillness was preserved, and at its close a deafening applause, which made the welkin ring, proceeded from the assembled multitude. Arriving at Knoxville, a large number of the Sixteenth Mississippi regiment, who were taken sick on the way, were left in a hospital, prepared for them, under the care of Dr. A. "9. Sparkman, of the Quitman Gu'ards, all of whom speak in the highest terms of the treatment they received while there. After remaining a day or two at Knoxville, for the purpose of preparing rations, the regiment took the trahi for Bris- tol, a town situated on the dividing line of Virginia and Tennes- see. The delay consequent upon the change of cars, and the removal of baggage, prevented them from leaving Bristol until late in the evening, and other delays between Bristol and Lynchburg", prolonged their arrival at the latter place until the second of August. Previous to the arrival of the regiment. Col. Posey had received orders to move to Stanton, in Western Virginia, but knowing the rigor of the winter there, and fearing disastrous effects on account of the unacclimated state of his troops, he imme- diately proceeded to Richmond, where he obtained leave to march his troops to Manassas. The regiment remained at Lj'nchburg eight days, during which time the Quitman Guards met with many friends, who were wounded in the battles of Bull Run and Manas- sas. Among them was Wm. J. Lamkin, son of the Hon. John T. Lamkin, of Holmesville, then attached to the Eleventh Mississippi regiment, but who afterwards became a member of the Quitman 10 Giiaids. "Wliile ibe Sixteenth Mississippi regiaient wasin oamp at Ljnchbarg', ai incident bappened in connection with it which may probably admit of record. A brigade from Louisiana, called the Polish brig'ade, which was composed principally of foreigners, who seemed to disregard military discipline, arrived; a large num- ber of whom left their commands and scattered through the city. Their acts of disorder and violence rendered it unsafe for the citi- zens to venture upon the streets. The officers of the brigade did everything in their power to restore order, but without success. It was finally determined to ask the assistance of the Sixteenth Mis- sissippi regiment, which being immediately granted, the prudence and activity of the officers quelled the riot and restored order with- out any injury except the wounding of a few soldiers of the brig- ade. It is but just to remark that the men composing the above brigade were, in every sense of the wprd, fighting men, as they afterwards proved themselves to be on many occasions. While at Lynchburg, Capt. Matthews arrived from home with fifteen or twenty recruits for the Quitman Guards, whose names can be found in the statistics of the company, which swelled its ranks and supplied the places of many who had died or were left behind in hospitals. On the ninth of August the regiment left Lynch- burg for Manassas, where they arrived on the morning of the tenth. ' CHAPTER III. Drilling and Picket Duty. The regiment remained in camp in the vicinity of Manassas and Centerville for a month or two, most of which time quiet prevailed. The daily drills were kept up morning and evening, company drill in the morning and battalion drill in the evening. A regular guard was also placed around the regiment, for the purpose of pre- venting infringements, as well as to protect the property belong- ing to it. About the latter part of August, 1861, while the regi- 11 ment was encamped near the Manassas battle grounds, it was put in a brigade, ccmposed of the Fifteenth Alabama, Twenty-First Georgia, and the Twenty-First North Carolina regiments, and, placed under the command of Brigadier General George B. Critten- den, of Kentucky. Sickness prevailed among the troops. When the usual call was made by the drummer, one hundred and fiftj' men have been known to be ordered to the siu'geons for treatment from the Sixteenth Mississippi regiment, and at one time nearly all of the Twenty-First Regiment were on the sick list. The officers of that regiment could scarcely get a sufficient number of well men to guard their camps. Unfortunately for this regiment, the measles had spread through it, and being in the battle of Bull Run and exposed to the inclemency of the weather, those who were recovering from this disease relapsed, which was fatal to a large number, and of course rendered the disease more dangerous to those who were about taking it; in consequence of which the mor- tality was very great indeed. The most of the sick of the Six- teenth Mississippi regiment, and, if we are not mistaken, of the other regiments of the brigade, were sent to Warrenton, a small town about twenty miles west of Manassas, where they were placed under the care of kind and attentive physicians. There the Virginia ladies, like ministering angels, liovered around the couch of the sick, war-worn soldier, speaking words of comfort and hope, cooling the burning forehead, moistening the fevered lips, and pre- paring for them those delicacies so palatable to the sick, and •which woman alone koows how to prepare. There the young man, separated from home, kindred and friends, by a distance of more than a thousand miles, found a roothei', a sister, a friend; and though absent from her who first taught his infant lips to lisp, and upon whose bosom he would fain pillow his dying head, yet here among strangers were those who would wipe the tear from his burning cheek and whisper words of comfort and hope. Women — noble women of Virginia, will ever live evergreen in the heart of Mississippi soldiers 1 12 Gen. Crittenden issued orders to the colonels of the regiments to change their camps about every ten days, on account of the health of the troops, but when the stream of disease flows among such a large body of men, who, save Omnipotence, can stay its tide ? The troops suffered much from sickness, camp life, and sudden change of climate. Their condition was rendered worse, if possible, from the fact that they had not been paid off up to that time; and having exhausted their private funds they were, consequently, unable to procure such articles as were necessary to their health and comfort. The Army of Virginia was then under the command of General Joseph E. Johnston. It was stationed at, and in the vicinity of Manassas. The outpost (that portion that immediately confronted the "Army of the Potomac, then under the command of General George B. McClellan,) were at Ancotank creek, a small stream emptying into the Potomac in Fairfax county, and about ten or twelve miles from Alexandria, at which place the Federal army was stationed. Some time in October, the 6th Mississippi regi- ment was ordered on picket dut3\ Col. Pose}'^, who was in com- mand, immediately proceeded to execute the order, having to pass through Fairfax Courthouse, which was the headquarters of Gen- eral Johnston. The regiment at that time was tolerably full, numbering about eight hundred men for duty, and attracted con- siderable attention from General Johnston, who remarked that they were the finest looking men he had seen. Upon asking whose regiment it was, he was told that it was the Sixteenth Mis- sissippi, under command of Colonel Posey. He complimented Colonel Posey for having the honor of commanding such a regi- ment, and remarked to him that every ofiBcer commanding such a regiment should have an oil cloth coat, and presented hini a very fine one. General Johnston was heard to remark that if those Mississippians were going on picket, they would stir up a fuss before they were there five days. His words proved prophetic, for on the fifth day two companies were sent out under the command of Major Thomas R. Stockdale, to reconnoitre and learn if possible 13 the position of the Federals. Major Stockdale found the enemy, and, of course, as is characteristic of him, exchanged a few shots with them. This created a considerable degree of excitement, and that night continuous firing was kept up all along the picket line. The impression was, that the Federals were advancing. Couriers • were flying over the country, artillery began to move to the front, troops were put in motion, and everything indicated an approach- ing battle. The next morning the Sixteenth regiment was relieved from picket duty, it having served its number of days, and returned to camp. On their way they met some troops that had started to the front, who frequently remarked, in reference to the excitement we had created among the Federals, "just as we expected of these Mississippians ;" but they did not know that the Sixteenth Missis- sippi regiment rather coiirted a general engagement. The news of the advance of the Federals caused the ai'my to change its posi tipn. The main body, which was at that time beyond Centreville, immediately fell back five miles. The brigade remained here until the 20th of December, In the meantime General Crittenden was transferred from the Virginia army, and Brigadier-General Isaac R. Trimble was placed in command of the brigade. General Trim ble selected a spot near Manassas junction, to which place he repaired, and began the construction of log cabins for winter quarters. On account of the severity of the weather, the troops made slow progress in the erection of these rude but compara- tively comfortable buildings. After six weeks of suffering and hard manual labor, they M^ere finished. The whole work might have been accomplished in a few days; but teams were scarce, the horses were poor and broken down, and the almost constant rains and snows kept the ro ids in such a wretched condition that the only wonder is that they were completed in six weeks. The quarters were built near the railroad. General Trimble caused a large platform to be built for the purpose of unloading provisions for the brigade. Notwithstanding the severity of the winter, the troops fared remarkably well while here. Provisions were plentiful, but there was not quite a sufficiency of clothing to supply the demand. 14 But being in comfortable cabiis the troops did not suffer as much as if more exposed. Those who were lacking in any article ne- cessary for their comfort, were not required to do any duty that would expose them to the severity of the weather. Captain Mat- thews deserves, and no doubt receives, the tlianks of his company for his kindness to, and almost parental care of, his men. During the extreme severity of the weather, nothing more was required in camp but police guard duty. Sickness still prevailed in the regi- ment. The Quitman Guards suffered severely. Jesse W. B. Lewis and James Pendarvis sickened and died before they could possibly be moved to a hospital. J. D. Foil died in a few days after going to the hospital. Their loss was felt to be irreparable by the company, and it was said and felt by all that they were specimens of Mississippi's noblest sons. As soldiers they were brave; as comrades they were kind and trustworthj'^ ; and as mess- mates they were ever ready to share their last meal. Their death cast a gloom over the whole company. Many who were after- wards taken sick became despondent at the many deaths from the same disease, arid seemed to be convinced that they would die. Despondency caused the disease in many cases to assume a more dangerous type, as it is thought the state of the mind often has much to do with the patient's recovery. Time dragged slowly on. The rigor of the winter rendered it almost impossible to engage in out-door exercise or amusements. Books were hard to get; but when one made its Avay into camp it was read by nearly all. The men looked forward with hope to the expiration of their term of enlistment, as they had enlisted for only twelve months. They remained at Manassas until the 8th of March, 1862. 15 CHAPTER IV. Evacuation of IVIanassas, and tlie beg, -aiaiiig of .A.ctive Cam- paigns. A large Federal force was concentrated at Alexandria — another threatened Eichmond; and as Manassas was considered untenable, in order to shorten the line of defense and increase the facilities for sending reinforcements to the different places of military ope- rations, GeneralJohnston deemed it necessary to evacuate it; and so secretly was this accomplished, that men were kept fortifying in its vicinity until the last siege gun was removed. The troops were not aware of the intention to evacuate until the army was in motion. The army commenced its retrograde movement late in the evening of the 8th of March, and fell back to the south bank of the Rappahannock river, about thirty miles south of Manassas Junc- tion. The Federal army did* not immediately follow up the retreat of Johnston, but seemingly suspicious of his movements, they approached Centreville very slowly and cautiously, which gave Johnston time to tear up the railroad track from Manassas to the Rappahannock river. Infantry pickets were posted on the south banks of the river, and several regiments were sent to the front for the pui'pose of tearing up the railroad. Among them was the Sixteenth Mississippi regiment. Nothing of interest transpiring, and having finished their mission, they returned to camp, where quiet reigned for several days. As soon as the Federal forces discovered that Manassas was really evacuated, and that General Johnston was gone, whither they knew not, they moved forward and came up with him at the Rappahannock, where he was prepared to give them a warm recep- tion. The Federals posted their artillery on a fortified hill, on the north bank of the river, and immediately commenced to shell the Confederate cavalry which had crossed in their front, as well as thfe infantry that were posted in a skirt of woods some distance to the rear of the cavalry skirmishers. This was about the 20th of IG March, 1862, and though the first cannonading the Quitman Guards had experienced, 3'et they seemed perfectly composed, and appa- rently heedless of the whizzing of the shells and solid shots, as they passed over their heads. Skirmishing continued until dark, and the troops slept with their arras in their hands during tiie night. As the Federal forces were making demonstrations in the direction of Fredericksburg; where General Whiting's division, (which had been stationed at Dumfries, on the Potomac,) was crossing. General Johnston thought it necessary to mo ve his army down the river to the right. The Sixteenth Mississippi regiment was stationed at Kelly's Ford, and other regiments of the brigade were stationed at different fords on the river. We should here mention that General Trim- ble's brigade was a part of General Ewell's division. The regi- ment remained at Kelly's Ford until about the 1st of April, and while there company F received sixty or seventy recruits. Sev- eral other companies also received recruits. The conscription act, approved February 17th, 1862, provided that all troops then in the service of the Confederate States, between certain ages, should remain in the service two years longer, and promised a furlough of sixty days before the expiration of that time. This act was published to the troops while at Kelly's Ford, and conflicted with the general expectations, though an opportunity had previously been offered them for furloughs, which was taken advantage of by as many as could be at that time spared from the array. Those who could not immediately obtain furloughs, consoled themselves that it was best for the cause, and consequently their duty to re- main satisfied. The Federal forces were daily increasing in strength, the capital was threatened, and they were gaining ground at almost every invading point. The volunteers saw what would be the result in case they were disbanded, and though they anxiously desired to return home for a season, yet they agreed upon the terms of the conscription Avith almost total unanimity. The Federal commander next chose the Peninsular for the field of military operation, and thinking the fall of Richmond would com- 17 plete the downfall of the Confederacy, he concentrated a large force on the peninsula for the purpose of investing Richmond, or, if possible, to wrest it from the hands of the few Confederate forces before Johnston could move his army from Fredericksburg. But Johnston, anticipating the designs of the Federal General, was there ready to meet him as soon as his forces were landed on the peninsula. General Ewell's division was left on the Rappahan- nock. In the meantime, a Federal force of about twenty thousand men, under the command of General N. P. Banks, bad penetrated the Shenandoah valley as far as Strasburg and Front Royal, hold- ing the city of Winchester. A small Confederate force, under the command of General T. J. Jackson, was all there were to oppose the progress of the Federal troops. A movement on Richmond from that quarter was looked upon as a very serious matter, and in order to check the enemy in this movement. General Jackson must be reinforced. For this purpose General Ewell was ordered to join him in the Shenandoah valley. The regiments being sta- tioned at different points, General Ewell ordered them to concen- trate at Gordonsville, from which place he took up his line of march for the valley. The expiration of the twelve months, for which period the troops had volunteered, being near at hand, orders were issued for their re-organization, and for that purpose the division was halted about five miles west of Gordonsville. Seneca McNeil Bain was elected captain of the Quitman Guards, Colden Wilson, first lieutenant, John Holmes, second lieutenant, and Van C. Coney, junior second lieutenant. Colonel Posey was re-elected colonel of the regiment, Captain J. J. Shannon of Company F, Jasper Grays, lieutenant-colonel, and Captain Samuel E. Baker of Company D, Adams Light Guards, was elected major. Many of the original officers returned to Mississippi, and entered different branches of the service. After the re-organization of the regiments, the division moved lip to the foot of the Blue Ridge mountain, n< ar Stanardsviile, and after remaining in camp for several days moved to the west side of the mountain. While encamped here, news was received from 3 IS General Jackson of the battle of McDowell, fought by the troops under his command, and where he gained a signal victory over the Federal forces. Gaining a victory, and having General Ewell's division in supporting distance, he immediately began to make preparations for an advance down the Shenandoah valley, for the purpose of driving out General Banks. General Ewell's divi- sion was moved down to Columbia bridge, and camped in what is called the Hawk's Bill valley, which is situated between the main ridge and a range of mountains lying between the two prongs of the Shenandoah river, to await the arrival of General Jackson's division. On account of the richness of this valley, the troops gave it the name of the land of milk and honey. Grain, pasture, stock and fruit were abundant. General Jackson formed a junction with General Ewell about the 21st of May, 1862, and immediately began to move down the valley. Two days march brought the army within twelve or fif- teen miles of Front Royal, where two Federal regiments and one battery of four guns were stationed. Early in the morning of the 24th of May the army was put in motion, and made a rapid march to Front Royal. General Jackson sent a party of men forward, who quietly captured a squad of pickets that were stationed on the road leading into the town. He then sent forward Major Wheat's battalion of General Taylor's Louisiana brigade, with the First Maryland regiment, to make the attack. This was accom- plished with so little confusion, that the Federals were taken entirely by surprise. They had scarcely a loaded gun. Some were fishing, others bathing — having no idea of the proximity of an enemy until they heard the report of the guns of the garrison in town. This gave them time to make some preparations for the coming fight. The First Maryland regiment, with General Tay- lor's Louisiana brigade, were thrown forward with such impetu- osity, that the Federals, finding themselves overpowered, were compelled to make a hasty retreat. The Federal artillery was sta- 'tioned on a very high hill. This enabled them to make a much longer resistance than was at first expected. They were finally 19 compelled to abandon their position and guns. Ashby's cavalry were thrown forward and attacked the infantry, which had gained time to form across the pike leading from Front Royal to Win- chester, upon which they were retreating, but were unable to repulse the desperate onset of the cavalry, and were scattered in confusion over the country. General Trimble's brigade was placed in supporting distance of the troops, and consequently, were not immediately engaged in this brilliant little affair. Nearly all the Federal troops stationed at Ff ont Royal were captured. The Con- federate loss at this place was about ten men killed and twenty- five or thirty wounded. The Federal loss in killed and wounded was heavier. Strasburg, Front Royal and Winchester are so situ- ated as to form a triangle, Winchester lying north of the other two, and about twenty miles distant fi-om each other. General Jackson took the main body of his army and moved direct from Front Royal to Strasburg, to attack and, if possible, dislodge the enemy stationed at that place, leaving General Trimble's brigade to move up and guard the road leading from Front Royal to Win- chester. General Jackson arrived at Strasburg some time during the night of the 24th of May, and immediately commenced the attack, In the meantime, Trimble was moving directly to Win- chester, at which place the main body of the Federal army was. As soon as the forces at Strasburg were attacked, and found they would be completely overpowered, they began to retreat in the direction of Winchester, and were closely pressed by the Confede- rate forces. They did not, however, retire without an attempt at resistance, for they kept up an almost incessant discharge of mus- ketry through the night. Trimble's brigade moved up to within four miles of Winchester, formed in line of battle on the road, and kept a strict lookout for the Federals, a portion of whom were expected to attempt to escape in that direction. Having left their blankets and knapsacks at Front Royal to be brought on by the wagons, and being exposed in an inert condition to the. piercing wind, a dreary night of suffering was passed by the Sixteenth regiment. As the day was heralded by the sun's first faint rays, 20 the rattling of musketry was heard, a heavy fog preventing the artillery from operating for perhaps an houi', which being cleared away, its thunders were heard reverberating through the distant hills. General Jackson commenced the attack on the south side of the city, his left extending west and a little around it, and his right connecting with General Trimble's brigade, which had taken posi- tion on the east side. It was here that Courtney's battery was supported by the Sixteenth Mississippi and the Fifteenth Alabama regiments. Here the two little armies engaged in close and deadly confli^^t. Volley after volley was poured by each into the ranks of the other, both struggling for victory. One or the other must soon give way. After about two hours of stubborn resist- ance, a deafening yell, emanating from the Confederate ranks, was heard rising above the din of the raging conflict, which told that theirs was the victory. The Federal lines gave way, and the vic- torious Confederates rushed forward like a storm. The retreating Federal forces attempted to make a stand in the streets of Win- chester. Many availed themselves of the protection afforded by houses, and fired upon the Confederates from the windows. But the victorious tide could not be stayed. Flight or surrender were the alternatives. The Federals chose the first, and moved out on the road leading north from Winchester towards Martinsburg and Harper's Ferry, on the Potomac river. A Parrot gun, which was captured from the Federals the day before, was placed on a com- manding elevation by General Trimble, and kept up a rapid fire on their retreating column until beyond its reach. Ashby's cavalry were then ordered forward, but Colonel Ashby was unable to con- trol them and keep them in close pursuit of the retreating Fede- rals, on account of their disposition to plunder and possess them- selves of some of the goods that the Federals had abandoned in their hasty retreat. The victory was consequently rendered less complete than it might have been. The result was, the capture of over three thousand prisoners, with a large number of small arms, a few cannon, several hundred wagons, and a large amount of quar- termaster and commissary stores. General Jackson pursued Gene- 21 ral Banks to Harper's Ferry, where he found the Federal forces stationed on Bolivar Heights, an almost impregnable position. He saw, with his usual quickness of perception^ that the enemy could not be driven from their position without a fearful sacrifice of life. Hearing that General Fremont was closing in on his rear, and that General Shields was mai'ching from Fredericksburg for the purpose of forming a junction with Fremont at Strasburg, a distance of about forty-five miles in his rear, and directly on his line of retreat. General Jackson therefore abandoned further ope- rations against Banks; and in order to save his army and the booty of the battle of Winchester, determined to retreat. He arrived at Strasburg on the first of June, just in time to save his extensive wagon train. General Fremont arrived a short time after General Jackson had conducted his train safely to the rear. General Shields halted at Front Royal, and thus cut off the retreat of Jackson in that direction; but had he pushed on to Strasburg and formed a junction with Fremont at that place, as was expected, the movements of Jackson would have been embar- rassed to a degree which might have resulted in the total over- throw of his army. Instead of giving Fremont battle at Stras- burg, Jackson only made a feint, and continued his retreat up the valley, burning the bridges as he passed over them, thus delaying the pursuit of the Federals. Arriving at Cross Keys, and having drawn the Federals from their base of supplies, he halted and determined on making a stand. The Federal army came up on the Tth of June, and on the 8th formed in line of battle. General Shields being on the south side of the Shenandoah river. General Jackson, having different forces to contend against at the same time, determined to divide his com- mand so as to operate as successfully as possible. Ewell's divi- sion was left at Cross Keys. General Jackson moving about four miles distant and a little south of Cross Keys, to Port. Republic, in order to stop the progress of Shields, who was encroaching upon his right flank. Ewell formed his division, consisting of about eight thousand men, in line of battle to receive the attack 22 of Fremont. EUzey's brigade was posted on the left, Taylor's in the centre, and Trimble's on the right. The Federals commenced the attack about two o'clock in the afternoon, by skirmishing and cannonading, and at the same time moving their line forward. Courtney's battery, which was attached to Trimble's brigade, was stationed on an adjacentiJiill, and supported bj"- the Fifteenth Ala- bama regiment; and as that position seemed to be the main point of attack, and for fear of losing his battery, Captain Courtney requested that General Trimble would send the Sixteenth Missis- sippi regiment to his aid, which being immediately granted, the regiment took a position in front of the battery on the brow of a hill, behind a string of fence. The Eighth New York regiment t moved up in a beautiful line through a wheat field. They ap- proached within thirty steps of the fence b}'- which the Sixteenth Mississippi was concealed, when they received a deliberate volley into their ranks. So sudden and so unexpected was this, that, seized with terror, they immediately gave away. Colonel Posey, perceiving the effect of the first fire, ordered his regiment forward. It crossed the fence, rushed forward and kept up a rapid fire as it advanced. The whole line now became engaged. One of the enemy's batteries, which seemed to devote its attention to the Six- teenth regiment, seeing it rapidly advancing, limbered up for the purpose of leaving that portion of the field. Colonel P.osey, per- ceiving an opportunity to capture it, moved his regiment to the right, to prevent the battery from making its escape; by which movement he placed his regiment in the rear of the Twenty-seventh Pennsylvania regiment, which commenced a rapid and destructive fire upon him. Colonel Posey returned the fire, and ordered his men to move forward, which they did, firing all the time. Here Colonel Posey was slightly wounded in the breast. The Pennsyl- vania regiment behaved gallantly, and did not retreat until the Twenty-first Georgia regiment, perceiving the situation of the Sixteenth, came to its assistance. The following members of the Quitman Guards were severely wounded in this attack: William 23 Garner, Jared B. May, Wesley Yarborougli and Dr. A. P. Spark- man. The attack was attempted to be renewed by the Eighth New York Kegiment, but, being met by the Fifteenth Alabama regiment, and having lost about two hundred and fifty men in the engage- ment with the Sixteenth Mississippi, was not able to stand against the earnest attack of the Alabamians, and were driven pell mell from the field. Generals Ellzey and Taylor having repulsed the Federal forces in their front, and night coming on, the fighting ceased, and both armies went into camp. Their fires were in full view of each other, and their reliance for protection was in the vigilance of their pickets. General Trimble, perceiving the appa- rent indifierence while in camp, requested General Ewell to allow him to make a night attack, and urged that " as we had defeated them during the day, might easily put them to rout." Ewell re- ferred the matter to General Jackson, who thought it unadvisable, as the Federals numbered him two to one. On the morning of the 9th of June General Ewell was ordered to Port Republic, where Jackson's division was engaged against Shields. Ewell's division was put in motion, and the Sixteenth Mississippi regiment were deployed as skirmishers, to cover the retreat to Port Republic. The Federals, fearing stratagem, ad- vanced cautiously, but frequently met the skirmishers, who con- tested every foot of ground. They covered the retreat with credit to themselves and safety to the division. They crossed the bridge at Port Republic, set it on fire, thus preventing the further pursuit of the enemy. In the meantime Jackson had defeated Shields, and compelled him to retreat down the valley. Hearing that Jackson was receiving reinforcements from Rich- mond, Fremont began a retrograde movement, and Jackson and Ewell went into camp near Weir's cave, adjacent to the field of the recent conflict. Thus ended the battles of Cross Keys and Port Republic. They were victories achieved by the Confederate forces. The Federals were repulsed in every assault and were driven from every position. But few prisoners were taken by either party, and 24 the loss of the Confederate forces were comparatively small. Four members of the Quitman Guards, whose names have been given, one of whom (Wesley Yarborough) died in the hospital from the effects of his wounds — William Garner and Dr. A. P. Sparkman were disabled for life and are at this time sufferers from their wounds — were the losses sustained by the company. The loss of the regiment was about twenty-five men in killed and wounded. CHAPTER V. Tlie JSeven. I>ays' Battles Before I2.ich.mond. Yorktown was evacuated. The battle of Williamsburg had been fought, and on the 2*7 th of May following, occurred the battle of Seven Pines, in which Gen. Joseph E. Johnston was wounded. Gen. McClellan was gradually approaching Richmond, and, judg- ing from the carefulness of his movements, and the magnitude of his preparations, the Confederate army anticipated a hard and bloody struggle for that city. Gen. Johnston being unable to keep the field on account of his wounds. Gen. Robert E. Lee, of Virginia, was placed in command of the' Confederate army around Richmond. He knew the coming struggle would be of a desperate character; he knew the qualities of the powerful leader with whom he was about to contend, and gave them proper weight. And having been advised of the splendid and well equipped army which was concentrated for his overthrow, and the subjugation of the Confederate capital, he bent the full energy of his comprehensive mind in making the arrangements, and constructing and perfect- ing the plans necessary to save the capital, and thus baffle and defeat the designs of the great general of the Federal forces. Gen. Stonewall Jackson's little army was considerably jaded from its recent forced marches and hard fought battles in the valley of the Shenandoah, but being animated by the splendid victories achieved by it at Winchester, Cross Keys and Port Republic, it still re- tained its martial spirit. The endurance manifested by it was 25 almost unparalleled in history, and it was now ready to undergo still greater sufferings in completing some of the most splendid campaigns ever devised by a military leader or executed by an army. Gen. Jackson was ordered to reinforce the army at Rich- mond, and on the 14th of June he left his camp at Weir's Cave, and took the turnpike road leading from thence to Gordonsville. Who can portray the feelings of that little army while crossing the Blue Eidge mountains on that occasion ? Almost worn down by their recent adventures, they were now called upon by their general-in-chief to march to his assistance a distance of more than, a hundred miles. But with unbroken spirits and undaunted cour* age they climbed the mountain slopes with the same firm tread with which they had moved to their recent victories. Upon arriving at the top of the mountains at Brown's Gap they were halted to rest, from which point they had a full view of the surrounding country. The scenes upon one side forced them to reflect upon the events of the past few days — events marked by carnage and blood, in which they had participated ; and before them were events wrapped in the bosom of the future, which must ere long transpire, A di-eadful battle was destined to be fought, in which they must act an important part — a battle upon the issue of whicli rested the fate of the capital of the Confederate States, as well as that of the South. They bad learned by the light of experience the length breadth and depth of the meaning of the word war. Their con- templations were intermingled with thoughts of home and the dear ones there. How many households would wear the sombre badge of mourning when the battle was fought, and the number of the killed and wounded was made known. Would the tear of uncontrollable sorrow course down the cheek of that mother, who was perhaps then kneeling in the quietude of her chamber offering up prayers for the safety and final restoration of her soldier boy to her bosom ? View him upon the mountain's summit, above the surrounding scenery, his implements of war swung around him, thinly clad, meagre and war-worn — he exhibits no signs of fear, 4 26 he utters no repinings against his hard lot for his country's good and the safety of her who prays for him at home. He defiantly bids the worst come, and looks the future full in the face with calm resolution and determined fortitude. Gen. Jackson arrived at Gordonsville about the 17th of June, and sent some of his troops by railway to Beaver Dam Station, where they disembarked aud marched across the country to Ash- land, which is situated on the Richmond and Fredericksburg Rail- road, at which place they arrived about the 25th of June. On the 26th his corps was put in motion and marched to Mechanicsville, where he attacked the extreme right flank of the Federal army. He succeeded in driving them from their position. The fighting did not cease until night closed the scene. The Federals had fallen back during the night to Cold Harbor, and entrenched them- selves on an elevated position, with a boggy ravine and a strong abatis formed of fallen trees in their front; and on the morning of the 21th the battle re-opened with redoubled fury. Jackson's divi- sion was on the left of Ewell's, and that of Gen. Longstreet's was connected on the left by Gen. EwelFs division. In order to gain the brow of an opposite hill for the purpose of shelter, until every thing was in readiness for a general charge, the Sixteenth Missis- sippi regiment were obliged to charge through this marshy ravine, in the face of a heavy fire from the Federals. Several feints were made in order to attract the attention of the Federals from their right, where Jackso^i was executing a flank movement. About sundown a charge was ordered all along the line, and the Sixteenth Mississippi, with the other regiments of the division, rushed for- ward to the attack, and notwithstanding the deadly fire to which they were exposed, they continued to advance, keeping up a rapid* fire of musketry; and in spite of the breastworks, the strong abatis, and the galling fire, they succeeded in taking the works and driving the enemy from the field. Though this was accomplished in about fifteen minutes, the Sixteenth Mississippi regiment lost about eighty men in killed and wounded. The losses sustained by 27 the Quitman Guards were Joseph W, Collins, killed; George W. Simmons, mortally wounded; George Root, severely wounded throug'h both knees; and Lieut. John Holmes slightly wounded in the hip. Capt. Brown, of Company A, Summit Rifles, was killed in this charge. He was acting major, and was gallantly leading the charge when he fell. He was a good and efficient oflScer, and his loss was mourned by all the regiment, but more especially by the Summit Rifles, whom he had the honor to command, and who were so much devoted to him. Jackson pursued the retreating Federals to Malvern Hill, where the Sixteenth Mississippi regi- ment was exposed to a severe shelling for about eight hours. The battles before Richmond began on the 26th of June, and ended on the 2d of July, 1862, during which time the Federals were driven about thirty miles. The Confederate forces remained masters of the field, and went into camp in the vicinity of Richmond. The troops remained in camp during the month of July and part of August, during which time nothing of interest transpired, except an occasional movement to the front, to repel an advance or demonstration made by the Federals. In the meantime, a force of about thirty thousand men, under the command of the Federal General Pope, who had been placed in commiind of the army of the Shenandoah valley, moved from the city of "Winchester to Culpep- per Court House. While in camp near Richmond t'lere was a general reorganization of the brigades of the Confederate army. They were all formed of troops from the same State, under the command of a brigadier general from that State. The divisions were formed of troops from dilierent States, no two brigades from the same State being in the same division. The Sixteenth Missis- sippi regiment was taken from General Trimble's brigade, and placed in one foraied of the Twelfth and Nineteenth regiments, and First Mississippi battalion, which battalion was afterwards called the Forty-Eighth regiment. The brigade thus formed was placed under the command of Brigadier General W. S. Featherston, from Holly Springs, Miss. It was then made to form a part of Major 28 General R. H. Anderson's division, which was composed of the several brigades, under the following commands: Brigadier Gen- eral Mahone's, from' Virginia; Brigadier General Wilcox's, from Alabama; Brigadier General Wright's, from Georgia, and Brigadier General Prior's, from Florida. Much regret was expressed by the Sixteenth regiment, at the necessity that forced the separation from General Trimble's brigade; and when they learned that they were no longer a part of it, they went to his headquarters to sere- nade him, and to express their sorrow for the separation. After the music by the band, Gen. Trimble appeared in front of the men, who had gathered around his quarters, and delivered a short ad- dress, reminding them of the gallant manner in which they con- ducted themselves in the Valley campaign, at Cold Harbor and Gaines' Farm, and expressed his sincere regret at the necessity that separated them from his brigade. He told them that he loved them as his children; that they were entitled to, and no doubt would re- ceive the respect and admiration of the world, for that heroism which they had never failed to exhibit on every field of battle — a heroism amounting to sublimity. He told them the place of his residence, and with an utterance rendered indistinct by emotion, he said that when the red tide of war should cease to flow, when benign peace should sit enthroned upon the national heart, there would be a place at his hearth, a home beneath the roof that shel- tered him, for the gallant, for the brave, and for the chivalrous. What soldier who heard him speak on that occasion will ever suf- fer his name to be effaced from his memory. What though he now sleeps the sleep that knows no waking, his name is engraven upon a thousand living monuments — in the hearts of his fellow soldiers. 29 CHAPTER VI. The Miaryland Campaign— Battle of Slaugliter IVTountain — Second. Battle of IVIanassas— Battle of Sliarpsbu.rg, INXd., and tlie Surrender of Harper's Ferry. General Jackson was ordered to Gordonsville for the purpose of commencing operations against General Pope. For this purpose he moved out from Gordonsville, crossed the Rapid Ann river, and on the 9th of August attacked an^ defeated the Federals at Slaughter Mountain in Culpeper county. The Federal army at Harrison's Landing, on the James river, commanded by General McClellan, was embarking for Washington city. This movement was supposed to be for the purpose of changing their base of mili- tary operations. General Lee left Eichmond on the 13th of August, 1862, and proceeded to Gordonsville to repel their advance from Alexandria. Upon his arrival at that place (Gordonsville) he com- menced a forward movement in the direction of Manassas. The Federal army, though defeated by Stonewall Jackson at Slaughter Mountain, did not leave Culpeper county j but on account of having received reinforcements, only retired to the Court House, and remained there until General Lee advanced with his whole army. General Lee crossed the Rapid Ann river at German?, and Raccoon Fords, and sent a portion of his command to Kelley's Ford, on the Rappahannock river, under the command of General Wilcox, for the purpose of driving out a small body of Federal cavalry and artillery stationed there. The remainder of his army was sent to Culpeper Court House. Arriving at Kelley's Ford, the Twelfth and Sixteenth Mississippi regiments, under the command of Colo- nel Posey, were sent forward to reconnoitre. Companies K and H, of the Sixteenth, were deployed as skirmishers; those remaining were formed in line of battle to repel the attack of the cavalry, in case the skirmishers failed to drive them back. Two hours of fighting ensued, when the two companies of skirmishers were com- pelled to fall back on the regiments for protection. The cavalry 30 « being deceived as to the actual force against them, and perceiving a portion of the Twelfth regiment extending from a skirt of woods into an open field, immediately prepared to charge them. The Twelfth regiment held its fire until the cavalrj' advanced within gun shot range, then discharged a volley into their ranks, which turned them in an opposite direction, killing a largo number of them. The Federals, discovering the odds against .them, retired to the north bank of the Rappahannock, where they had the advan- tage of a hill, upon which they placed their artillery, when both sides commenced a fierce cannonading, which did not cease until dark. The Federals having crossed the Rappahannock at Kelly's Ford, General Wilcox moved on to Brandy Station, on the Orange and Alexandria railroad, to rejoin the main body of the army, near which place General Lee was endeavoring to force a passage across the river. The army remained at this point for only a suffi- cient time to prepare rations, when General Lee moved to the left, forced his passage across the river, and compelled General Pope to retire in the direction of Manassas, and by a rapid march suc- ceeded in reaching Manassas simultaneously with Pope, where he found Genei'al Jackson, who v/as about twenty-four hours in ad- vance of the main body of the army, engaged. The arr^'val of General Lee was opportune, as it prevented the capture of General Jackson, for he was fighting against great odds, and was at the time endeavoring to cut his way through the Federals. In the meantime, Pope had received reinforcements from McClellan; and on the 29th of August the two armies .\gain confronted each other on the memorable plains of Manassas. Jackson's corps constituted the left, and Longstreet's the right wing. Anderson's division occupied the centre. Considerable fighting occurred during the day. At night both armies were engaged in manoeuvering, rectifying their lines, and making pre- parations for a general engagement. The morning of the 30th began with skirmishing and cannonad- ing. The Federals advanced on the right and left, at intervals, until afternoon, and were as often repulsed. At about four 31 o'clock a general engagement was determined upon. The thunders of artillery now burst forth from the right and left wings, and the terrible and continuous explosions were taken up by the centre. The air was filled with sulphurous matter, which seemed to mad- den the forces with impatience to move forward and assist in the carnage which everywhere prevailed. The Federals massed a large force in their centre, and in front of Anderson's division, for the purpose of breaking Lee's centre, and moved forward several columns in depth; and soon one hundred and fifty thousand men were engaged in deadly combat. Charge after charge was made, and as often repulsed. A deafening yell would ever and anon rise above the din of battle, as one side or the other would gain an advantage. For three dreadful hours the raging conflict con- tinued. The enfilading shots from the Confederate batteries, and the galling fire of their well directed rifles, thinned the Federal ranks, and caused them to waver, which, being perceived by the Confederates, they rushed forward with redoubled energy and fury. The Federals, unable to stand the determined onset, fled in confu- sion from the field. The sun sank in the west; night came on, and still the work of carnage continued. A long blaze of light con- tinned to stream forth from the advancing column of Confederates. Sudden flashes of light, emitted from the bursting shells, lit up the surrounding darkness like hundreds of meteors. A continuous roar cf musketry, and the thunders of artillery, with the madden- ing yells of the combatants, created a scene of confusion beyond the power of description. For two hours more the work of death went on, when it ©eased suddenly, and a deathlike stillness every- where prevailed, w)iich was only broken by the shrieks of the wounded and dying. During the battle the Quitman Guards displayed their wonted heroism. General Wilcox desired to take a battery that was doing much damage to the Confederate ranks, and for this purpose ordered General Featherston to move forward in order to attract its attention, while he charged it with his own brigade. General Featherston obeyed the order, standing in front of his brigade, 32 apparently heedless of the iron hail that was falling thick around him, and which inflicted instant death upon a large number of his men. The position of the Sixteenth was very much exposed, and they suffered greatly; yet, though witnessing their comrades fall- ing around them, they stood with unflinching bravery to their post. The Alabamians charged the battery without success, and the loss suffered by the Sixteenth proved of no avail. The loss of the Quitman Guards may be summed up as follows: W. L. Williams, wounded in the left arm, which was afterwards amputated; Benja- min Holmes, wounded in the leg by a musket ball; Burton D. Bankston in the hip; John Walker in the leg; and Matthew Wil- son in the groin. The company was under the command of Lieu- tenant Golden Wilson, who here added new laurels to those already gathered by him. There was, indeed, no lack of courage manifested by any of the troops engaged. The night of the 30th of August was truly an awful one; more than twenty thousand men lay weltering in their gore; friend and foe lay promiscuously piled and heaped, and the still night air was pierced by the agonizing cries of the wounded and dying. The stoutest heart sickened and grew faint while contemplating the scene. The tedious hours of night dragged slowly along to those who were wounded and left on the field, with nothing to contem- plate but the wide spread field of the dead and dying that sur- rounded them. No sound was to be heard but the groans and cries of their suffering comrades and foes. On the morning of the 31st of August the Federals sent a detail to bury their dead, and an ambulance train to carry away their wounded, under a flag of truce. This was immediately granted by General Lee, who left a detail to bury the dead of his own army, and remove the wounded to the different hospitals that were pre- pared for their reception. The Federal army retreated in the direction of Alexandria, and General Lee pressed closely after them. He came up with their rear guard at Shantilla, attacked it, and forced it to hurry its retreat. Instead of following Pope to Alexandria, Lee bore to the left toward Leesburg, and crossed the Potomac at that place into Maryland, and moved directly on to Frederic city, where he halted to rest and make additions to his. commissary stores, which were nearly exhausted — the array havitig passed through a country that had been desolated by the frequent incursions of the Federal as well as Confederate forces. The rail- road bridge across the Monocacy was blown up by General Lee. The Federal army concentrated at Washington city under General McClellan, who immediately moved on to Frederic city, for the purpose of preventing the further progress of Lee into Maryland. A Federal garrison of eleven thousand men were stationed at Harper's Ferry, under General Miles; and for the purpose of cap- turing this garrison, Geperal Lee left Frederic city about the 12th of September. General Longstreet was sent with a portion of his command by way of Boonsboro, to prev,ent the Federals from making their escape through Maryland into Pennsylvania by way of the Cumberland valley. General A. P. Hill was ordered to re-ci'oss the Potomac, and take possession of Loudon Heights. General Jackson was directed to move to the west side of the Shenandoah river, and take possession of Bolivar Heights. Gen- eral Anderson's division was taken to Sandy Hook, on the Mary- land side.' General A. P Hill took possession of Loudon Heights on the 14th of September, and immediately placed twenty guns in position to bear on Harper's Ferry. General Jackson secured Bolivar Heights. Cobb's Georgia and Barksdale's Mississippi brigades captured Maryland Heights. Harper's Ferry was now completely surrounded, and there was no possible way of escape. In the meantime. General McClellan was moving rapidly on Long- street's rear, as well as on the troops at Sandy Hook The morning of the 15th was commenced with the firing of the guns from Loudon and Bolivar Heights, under the respective com- mands of A. P. Hill and Jackson. The garrison, seeing themselves completely surrounded, and no possibility of reaching their assail-, ants, and fearful of the consequences that might ensue, ran up the white flag, and made an unconditional surrender. About fifteen thousand stand of small arms, a large amount of quartermaster 34 and commissary stores, a large number of wagons, eighty-four pieces of cannon, and eleven thousand men, were surrendered to Major General A. P, Hill. In the meantime, General McClellan had reached Boonsboro and attacked Longstreet, who, perceiving the odds against him, fell back to Sharpsburg, where he engaged them on the 16th of Sep- tember; and having received reinforcements, he succeeded in holding them in check until Lee's arrival with his forces, thus saving himself from total defeat. The two lines of battle extended nearly parallel with the An- tietam river, on the north bank of which the Federals had stationed a great many guns, having the advantage of position over the Confederates. General Anderson's division arrived on the 11th, about 11 o'clock — the battle was then raging — and it immediately went into action. General Featherston not having recovered from the wound he received at Richmond, and having received a hurt from the falling of his horse. Colonel Posey commanded his brig- ade, which also went into action on the front and left of the town of Sharpsburg. The Sixteenth Mississippi went into action with two hundred and fifty men, and immediately charged the enemy. The Federals were stationed on the brow of a hill, and nothing could be seen of them by the advancing Mississippians but their heads and shoulders. At the time of the charge made by the Six- teenth, the Federals were engaging troops who were stationed in an old road. Posey's brigade charged up through a corn field, under a sweeping fire from the Federals in their front, and an enfi- lading fire from their batteries on the right and left, until they reached the troops stationed in the above mentioned old road, where they were ordered to halt. A rapid fire was kept up for several hours, but the gallant Federals remained unmoved. There were so many troops in this old road, and the slaughter so great, that it was deemed necessary to move them back two or three hundred yards, to a more advantageous position. Pei'ceiving dis- order among the troops. Colonel Posey stopped the colors at the proper place, when the men rallied to them in perfect order, and 35 immediately began a destructive fire upon the Federals, who had advanced when the Confederates were falling back. The brigade held this position throughout the day. The Federals were repulsed on the right and left, but stood firmly in their centre. The loss of the Sixteenth Mississippi regiment in the battle of Sharpsburg was heavy. It went into action with two hundred and fifty men, and numbered but one hundred and fifty at the close of the battle. The Quitman Guards numbered but thirteen men at the commencement of the battle, and at its close there were but three unhurt. The following are the casualties: Lieut. Golden Wilson, mortally wounded; Lieut. Van C. Coney, wounded; Jesse W. Guy, killed; Reaves Rhodis, David Leonard, A. J. Tarburton, Wm. McCusker, A. E. Ard, Thomas M. Barr, and L. W, Conerly, were wounded. General Lee's army having marched so far, and having been engaged in so many battles, were in consecjuence so completely worn down that not more than half of ifc^ numbers were in the engagement. The battle of Sharpsburg was fought by about thirty-five thousand Confederate troops, according to the reports of some of the generals. General Lee having secured the garrison at Harper's Ferry, and relieved Longstreet of his perilous situation, and night coming on, the battle was closed, and he withdrew to the Virginia side of the Potomac. He crossed one portion of his army at a ford near Sharpsburg, and the other at Shepardstown, several miles up the river. After crossing at the latter place, General Lee stationed a division of men and a few pieces of artillery on the very high and steep banks of the river, in order to repulse the Federal cavalry, who, he had reasons to be- lieve, would attempt to follow him. The precipitous banks of the river prevented a road from being built directly up them, and the road ran parallel with the river for about the fourth of a mile, reaching the top of the bank by gradual ascent. The division of men and the artillery were stationed on the bank, at the base of which was this road. The infantry were stationed so far back from the edge of this bank or bluflf, as not to be observed by any 36 on the opposite side of the river. The Federal cavalry, as was expected by General Lee, dashed up to the ford, put several guns in position, and began to shell across the river. The Confederate cannoneers immediately cut their horses loose from their carriages, mounted them and fled with much apparent confusif>u. The Fed- eral cavalry perceiving this, and having no thoughts of opposition in their passage across tlie river, dashed forward, and in a short time this narrow roa,d was filled with them from the ford to the top of the bank. The division of Confederate infantry immediately arose to their feet, rushed to the brink of the bluff and poured a destructive volley into their ranks. Seized with consternation, and finding no other way of escape, they plunged headlong into the river. The Confederates continued a rapid fire for ten or fifteen minutes, in which time the Potomac, fur a quarter of a mile, was filled with the killed, wounded and drowning men and horses. This pat an end to the further pursuit of our army by the Federals, and General Lee retired to Bunker's Hill, near Winchester, where he went into camp and remained until the latter part of October. Wliile here, Col. J. J. Shannon, of the Sixteenth Mississippi, re- signed and returned to Mississippi. CHAPTER VII. Battles of Fredericlrsbiirs and Cliancellorsville. Learning that the Federal army was again advancing towards Manassas, from Alexandria and the upper Potomac, General Lee put his army in motion, passing through the city of Winchester, and crossing the Blue Ridge mountains at Chester Gap, near Front Royal, and moving direct from thence to Culpeper Court House, and again established his picket lines on the banks of the Rappa. hannock river. There being no serious demonstrations made by the Federals, the Confederate troops were once more permitted to go iuto camp, and enjoy a short rest from their long toils of march- 37 ing- and fighting, to which they had been ahnost unceasingly sub- jected for the last three mouths. Nothing was required of them but the usual drills, outpost duties, and camp guard necessary for the defence and discipline of an army. General J. E. B. Stuart, commanding the Confederate cavalry, and stationed on outpost duty, was constantly engaged with the Federal cavalry, during the army's sojourn at Culpeper, and was very often necessitated to ask the aid of a few regiments of infantry in repelling the fre- quent incursions of the enemy. After fighting, them for eight or ten days without success, he finally called for two large regiments of infantry to assist in driving them from one portion of his lines, upon which they were making daily encroachments. The Six- teenth Mississippi and the Tenth Alabama were accordingly sent to Hazel river, one of the branches of the Kappahannock, for the purpose of supporting him, at which place they arrived about dark, on the 9th of November, 1862. On the next morning General Stuart began to advance witli his cavalry, and immediately en- gaged that of the Federals, they having drawn up in line of battle and prepared for action. General Stuart had two pieces of can- non; the Federals had about the same number. Being supported by the infantry skirmishers from the Sixteenth Regiment, the Con- federate cavalry were inspired with greater courage, and fought with determination, making several charges. The infantry skir- mishers were also hotly engaged. The Federal cavalry were driven from their position for a distance of about four miles, when, receiving reinforcements from Amesville, General Stuart was com- pelled to return to his original position. The Sixteenth Missis- sippi regiment lost six or eight men wounded, among whom was Ralph Gibson, of the Summit Rifles. , The Federal army was at that time under the command of Gen. Burnside, and about the 20 th of November began to move in the direction of Fredericksburg. General Lee left Culpeper Court House about the same time, crossed the Rapid Ann at Germana and Ely's Fords, and moved in an eastwardly direction to Fred- 38 ericksburg. The Federal army was stationed on Stafford's Heights, on the north bank of the Rappahannock, and fronting Fredericks, burg. The Confederate army was stationed on the south bank, on a commanding ridge running parallel with the river. There were no obstructions in the intervening space between the two armies, save the rippling waters of the Rappahannock. The beau- tiful valley lay stretched in the distance, with a row of stately trees fringing its margin on the river. The ancient town, where sleeps the mother of the immortal Washington, presented a sad and gloomy picture, as it was situated between two large and hostile armies. Must the sacred spot, where rest the crumbling ashes of the mother of the hero of America and of American inde- pendence, be the scene of a deadly conflict between the sons of that great republic — the wonder of the world ? The sad truth was realized. The pickets of the two armies were stationed on the banks of the river within gunshot distance, and were forbidden to fire except when an attempt was made to cross the river. On the night of the lOth of December, after hauling their pontoon boats to the water's edge, the Federals began the construction of a pontoon bridge, under cover of their artillery. Barksdale's Mississippi brigade fought nobly to prevent the construction of the bridge, but on account of the raking fire from the Federal batteries and infantry bearing upon that particular point, the brigade was com- pelled to yield the ground, and the Federals effected a crossing. On the 11th, General Lee was engaged in placing his artillery in position, and otherwise strengthening his lines for a sure defence against the Federals, who outnumbered him two to one. On the night of the 11th the Federals crossed their infantry, and a portion of their artillery, and massed them in the town for protection, knowing that General Lee would not fire on them while there, on account of the non-combatants, who were prevented from removing by the sudden movements of the army. On the 12th the two armies kept up a continuous cannonading and skirmishing; at night the Federals extended their lines for the purpose of making 39 a general assault. The Confederate army was thus arranged: Jackson's corps composed the right wing, with Stuart on his right to protect the flank; General Longstreet's composed the left wing, and fronted the town; General Featherston's brigade was imme- diately in front of the town, and extended across the main road, which leads from it in a southerly direction. The Federals on the right and in front of Jackson's corps, moved up under cover of the night, and fortified themselves, building several lines of breast- works. The dawn of the 13th exhibited to General Lee the posi- tion of the Federal army. It was evident that the struggle would be a hard one, as General Burnside had expressed his determina- tion to " carry the crest." But knowing the disadvantageous posi- tion of the enemy, and relying on the indomitable courage and endurance of his troops, General Lee felt himself secure against any assaults the Federals might attempt against him. Fighting began in the morning by skirmishing and cannonading, which was kept up a good portion of the day. Charges were frequently made for the purpose of trying . the strength of the Confederate lines, which were as often repulsed. Seeing the impossibility of moving the Confederates by detail fighting. General Burnside concluded to make a general assault. He opened his artillery from Stafford Heights with fearful effect, and ordered the infantry to charge. The Confederate batteries on Mayes' Heights and Lees Hill did not often reply, but reserved their fire for the advancing column of infantry. As soon as the Federal line approached sufficiently near, the Confederates discharged a volley of musketry, but did not check the advancing column at once; but the rapidity of their fire, with' that of the artillery, soon brought them to a stand. The guns on Stafibrd and Mayes' Heights and Lees Hill thundered away witli spiteful fury, and up and down the lines for four miles the incessant roar of musketry, the booming of cannon, the bursting and whizzing of shell and solid shot, and the buzzing sound of grape and canister that plowed into the ranks of the contending armies, were heard mingled with the yells and shouts of the 40 enthusiastic soldiery. The Federal army was often driven back, but like a dark and furious wave of the mighty ocean that dashed against the sturdy rock, would rally again to the charge, and again recoil before the incessant fire of the Confederate guns. Being unable to dislodge the Confederates from their position, and their ranks being decimated, the Federals were compelled to retire. Jackson drove them back to the river's edge in his front; Long- street repulsed every charge made upon him; Featherston's brig- ade did its share of the work, and the Quitman Guards performed their allotted part. After the repulse of the Federals, the Quit- man Guards were placed several hundred yards in front of the brigade to act as pickets for its protection during the night. In order to protect themselves from the fire of the Federal sharp- shooters, who thronged the houses in the town, they spent the night in fortifying themselves. Here, as well as on many subse- quent occasions. Captain Bain exhibited such coolness and cour- age as is worthy of mention, and proved himself to be a brave and efficient officer. His apparent indifference to danger inspired his men with confidence, and they exhibited a willingness to follow wherever he would lead. The Federals did not renew the attack on the 14th, though both sides kept up a constant sharpshooting and shelling. On the night of the 14th, the Federals withdrew to the north side of the river, taking up their pontoons. The loss of the Sixteenth was trifling in the engagement at Fredericksburg. The Quitman Guards lost none. The Confederate army being stationed behind breastworks, and having a splendid position, were enabled to repulse the ad- vance of the Federals without suffering much damage, though inflicting severe punishment upon the enemy. After burying the Federal dead, removing the wounded that covered the field of battle, and gathering up the trophies from the field, the Confede- rate army again established its picket lines on the banks of the Rappahannock, and went into camp. Some amusing incidents happened during the fight, one of 41 which, as it exhibits great composure and courage in the hour of danger, deserves to be recorded. There was a North Carolina regiment in Jackson's corps, — (if we are not mistaken, it was the Fifty-seventh regiment of conscripts.) As soon as the Federals began to retire, this regiment was ordered forward. They ad- vanced yelling and firing. A hare, frightened at the terrible storm that was raging, dashed through the advancing regiment, which attracted the attention of one of the conscripts, who, seeming to for- get that he was engaged in battle, and the missiles of death that filled the air, stopped and contemplated the little animal as it sped to the rear, and exclaimed : " Go it, cotton tail, if it wern'tfor my honor I'd be going that way too." Not having been before in battle, and being highly elated at the Federals giving way before them, they rushed forward with furious impetuosity, in advance of the main line. Their oflBcers did all in their power to keep them in order with the other portion of the line, but without success, until, observing the main line to halt, and perceiving the utter futility of a further advance on their part, and receiving orders from General Hill, they returned. After r^jturning, some of them were heard to say, " If we had been them ar Toxicaas, General Hill would'er let us gone on." General Barksdale's Mississippi brigade was quartered in the town of Fredericksburg for the winter. The remainder of the army built their winter quarters from two to four miles in the rear. No very interesting events transpired while i:^ winter quarters. Both armies seemed to rest in perfect security. They were en- camped in full view of each other, and exchanged sympathies with the suffering entailed by that long and dreadful winter. Rain, sleet and snow fell in abundance. The cold, freezing blast howled through the camps of the shivering armies. The Confederates were meagrely supplied with wood. Clothing, blankets and shoes were luxuries denied, except to those who were remembered around the blazing hearths at home. Many a brave son of the South, who had been used to luxury, was compelled to stand or sit shivering over the expiring embers of the last log of wood to prevent freez- 6 42 ing. Could the planter at home, surrounded with all the comforts of life, with armoirs filled to repletion with blankets, coverlets and quilts, have witnessed the untold and almost inconceivable sufferings of the men who thus dared the freezing blast of a rigid winter, as well as the missiles of death, that he might remain at home to revel in comforts and luxuries, while the bare necessities of nature were denied the soldier, would his stingy heart have relented ? And would he have unlocked his armoirs ? We are fearful that the parsimoniousness would have been re-enacted of a wealthy lady, who, observing the suffering endured by her less fortunate neighbor, determined to present the suffering family with a load of wood, and so ordered her servant. But upon reach- ing her parlor, where the winter winds were tempered to the pleasantness of summer, she observed to her servant: "John, you need not take that load of wood to our poor neighbor, for I believe the weather has moderated. Truly, charity begins at home, and it is man's duty to take care of his own household." Rations were also scarce, for the reason that the severity of the weather made transportation difficult. This added greatly to the ■ sufferings of the army. But few furloughs were granted, and the troops had nothing to cheer them through those long and dreary months. Two and a half years had passed since they left their ' homes. They had passed through some of the most sanguinary battles ever fought on the American continent; and though they had gained victory after victory, yet the prospect of peace was like a faint and glimmering light enveloped in mist, appearing far, far in the distance. The war seemed to have just begun. The fire- brands of civil strife were blazing more brightly than ever, and the red mantle of war enshrouded the whole country; the precious gems of peace and liberty, which they once so fondly pressed to their bosoms, had vanished. They were exchanged for the clash of arms and the gory field. No prospects of peace, no hopes of soon returning to their peaceful and quiet homes; with frames attenuated and tortured with long and wearisome marches, nume- ^ reus battles, and icy winters, they patiently awaited for the 43 X problem of their fate to be solved by Him who rules the destinies of man. Who would once suppose that men thus situated would retain on6 spark of their martial spirit ? Who would suppose that, amidst the gloom that surrounded them, they would for a moment stand as a bulwark of iron against the powerful and well equipped hosts which were afterwards hurled against them with such unre- lenting fury ? But that flamt was there. It burned brightly and undimmed upon the altar of their hearts, and like the luminous halo that encircles a bright and beautiful star amid the quietude of a dark and dreary night, it lit up the placid brows of those war worn veterans with cheering hopes and stern determinations. Featherstou's brigade remained near Fredericksburg until the latter part of March, 1863. In the meantime. Colonel Posey was promoted to the rank of Brigadier-General, and placed in command of Featherston's brigade. General Featherston having been trans- ferred to Mississippi, and placed in command of a brigade under General Joseph E. Johnston, commanding the department of East Louisiana, Mississippi and Alabama. Lieutenant-Colonel Baker was promoted to the rank of colonel. Major E. M. Feltus to lieu- tenant-colonel, and Captain Council to the rank of major of the regiment. Posey's brigade, with that of Mahone's, from Virginia, were ordered to United States Ford, on the Rappahannock river, fifteen miles above Fredericksburg. Burnside had l^een removed, and General Jo. Hooker was placed in command of the Federal army, and it was expected that he would attempt a crossing either at that or some other ford further up the river, and thus force Gen- eral Lee from bis position at Fredericksburg. Frequent demon- strations were made in that direction during the months of March and April. The men here were more comfortably quartered; with wood in abundance, and the winter nearly spent, th(;ir sufferings were, from these circumstances, considerably ameliorated. Provi- sions continued scarce as ever, owing to the distance from the railroad and the bad condition of the roads and teams. About the middle of April, the freezing blasts of winter began to cease, and 44 the genial sunshine of Spring melted the icicle and snow, and infused new life into the soldier. While here, the chaplains who had been appointed to the several regiments, perceiving the increasing depravity of some of the troops, and the disregard of religious principles manifested by almost all of them, consulted with each other for the purpose of perfecting some plan by which an improvement of the morals of the troops might be effected. The result of the conference was the formation of the " Young Mens' Christian Philanthropic Associa- tion." A large number soon became membei's of the association, and proved its benign effects by their altered conduct. Quite a number attached themselves to the church, and afterwards led exemplary lives. Here J. Dumay Travis was elected junior second lieutenant of the Quitman Guards. About the 10th of April, the Federal cavalry attempted to cross the Rappahannock river at Kelly's Ford, bufwere driven back. They continued their demonstrations at different points on the river, until the 26th, when their cavalry effected a crossing at Kelly's Ford. Crossing the Rapid Ann at Germana Ford, they proceeded in the direction of Fredericksburg. A detail of car- penters, stationed by General Lee at Germana, for the purpose of building a bridge, made but a feeble resistance. A few were cap- tured, the remainder were dispersed, who afterwards rejoined their regiments. Learning that the Federal cavalry were rapidly advancing toward Fredericksburg, the brigades of Generals Posey and Mabone were ordered to the plank road leading from Germana to Fredericksburg, to stop their progress. This movement on the part of Posey and Mabone left an opening at United States Ford, through which the Federal infantry might pass. Posey and Ma- bone formed in line of battle at or near the Chancellorsville House, across the above plank road, and thus held the cavalry in check until General Lee got the main body of his army in motion, and made such disposition of his troops as was necessary. The cross- ing of the Federal infantry at United States Ford, compelled Gen-' 45 erals Posey and Mahone to fall back two or three miles from Chan- cellorsville. On the 29th, the Federal army moved out from United States Ford and formed in line of battle, facing north towards Fredericks- burg, and across the plank road, entrenched themselves, and sent forward a heavy force to feel our position. Lee, in the meantime, had made the proper disposition of his troops, and was ready to receive them. The country is tolerably level and thickly covered with woods, which circumstance rendered artillery almost useless, except by the Federals, who had possession of the fields around Chancellorsville. Hooker continued to unfold his lines, forming three separate ones, entrenching each, and building very strong traverses to secure his troops against an enfilading fire from the Confederates, in <5ase they should get around on his right flank. General Lee built only a few temporary works. Jackson's com- mand constituted the left wing, and the right was commanded by General Lee in person. Posey's brigade was about the centre of the line, and across the plank road For several daj's continuous skirmishing and occasional cannonading was kept up. An engage- ment between a brigade or division would frequently occur, but resulted in nothing definite. On the night of the of May, Jackson began a movement to the left, bearing on Hooker's left flank and rear. The Quitman Guards were at that time on the skirmish lines, under the com- mand of Lieutenant Van C. Coney. The second platoon on the left of the road was commanded by Lieutenant J. Q. Travis. Lieu- tenant John Holmes was at that time acting adjutant of the regi- ment. Jackson executed his movement to the left, and on the — was in the rear of Hooker. He placed a battery on Hooker's right, so as to enfilade his lines, and then began the charge iu his rear. Lee charged their front at the same time with the troops under his immediate command. Thus the Federals were placed between two fires, and were also exposed to a destructive enfilading fire from the Confederate batteries on the right. They, however, had 46 breastworks facing both ways, and were prepared for a stubborn resistance. The battle opened with spiteful fury. The Federals had the advantage of the rising ground, and used their artillery effect- ively. The Sixteenth Mississippi charged with unfixed bayonets, (Colonel Baker afterwards remarking that it never occurred to him to fix bayonets until the charge was over.) Thus situated, the two armies soon became hotly engaged. The Confederate army, like a mighty billow, swept over the breastworks of the Federals, carrying everything before it. The Federals fought gallantly to sustain themselves, but without eflFect. The works being carried, a hand to hand strife ensued. The artillery ceased, but the clashing of small arms told that the deadly strife was still progressing. Bayonets crossed, and the revengeful eyes of the contending foes met each other's gaze. Clubbed muskets fell with crushing weight upon the victim warriors, and the mangled forms of the dead and dying covered the ground. The Federals were at length forced to yield, and the Confederates were masters of the extensive works of their less fortunate foe. The Quitman Guards were not engaged in this charge; they were supporting a battery which was engaged during the progress of the battle. They suffered considerably in the skirmishing, losing two men killed and four wounded, viz : John Newman and Asa H. Guinea, killed; Lieut. J. Q. Travis, right hand amputated; Simeon Eatliflf, right fore-finger shot off ; W. L. Payne and T. J. Forest, -slightly. During this terrible battle the immortal Stonewall Jack- son was wounded. After his line of battle had been formed in rear of the enemy, he went in front of it to observe their move- ments; while there some disturbance was created, which being mistaken by his men for the advance of the enemy, they began a rapid fire, wounding their own general, This sad occurrence, it will be remembered, happened at night, and the position of their beloved General was unperceived by his men, and though his staff officers exerted themselves to their utmost to prevent the spread 47 of the news of the sad accident, it was sooa known by every one in the army. While prostrated and weakened by the wound, this illustrious man was seized with pneumonia, and died shortly after. Thus one of the greatest generals of the age was lost to the Con- federate army. His death cast a gloom over the entire South, and the exultations of victory were lost in sorrowful lamentations over the great national calamity. After the battle at Chancellorsville, General Lee's attention was drawn towards Fredericksburg, at which place Sedgwick had crossed twenty-five or thirty thousand men, and was approaching the rear of Lee. He immediately detached a sufficient force for the purpose of driving them back across the river. This force met the Federals at Church, and immediately began the attack. The Federals, not expecting an attack, were somewhat confused, and consequently did not make their usual resistance. After a few rounds they began to waver, perceiving which the Confeder- ates moved forward with enthusiastic shouts. The fighting began about the middle of the afternoon and lasted until dark. The Fed- erals were driven back to the river, and re-crossed it at Banks' Ford, three or four miles above Fredericksburg, Posey's brigade was engaged in this brilliant affair, and exhibited their usual valor. It is proper to mention here an incident which inay seem incredi- ble, but for the truth of which many will vouch. Some time after dark the Confederate line of battle moved nearer to the ford at which the Federals were crossing. General Posey, wishing to be certain of their movements, called for volunteers to go out and see what discoveries could be made. Among others, John Walker and J. E. Simmons, of the Quitman Guards, volunteered. Shortly after leaving the line they were halted by a company of Federal pickets. " Who are you ?" said one of the pickets. They replied, " We are Confederate soldiers; you are now surrounded by our forces and we have come to conduct you safely to our lines." The Federals immediately stacked their arms, and the company, sixty in num- ber, were conducted by these two gallant young men to General 48 Posey's headquarters. This bold adventure of "Walker and Sim- mons does not only deserve a place in this imperfect sketch, but should descend in history to futm-e generations. The battle of Chancellorsville was fought by about forty-five thousand men on the part of the Confederates, and, considering the numbers engaged against them, was a brilliant victory. What the Federal force was on this occasion we are not prepared to state, though it was represented by their papers as vastly out- numbering the Confederates. General Lee now massed his whole force at Chancellorsville; and here was presented to our eyes the most sublime spectacle upon which we ever gazed. The veteran general and subordinate officers, surrounded by the massed forces upon the field of the recent battle, the debris scattered in confu- sion, men mangled and torn, disemboweled horses, broken mus- kets and cannon, spades, axes and all other implements of war, together with the ruins of the breastworks, covered the field, pre- senting a picture, upon the bare recollection of which we would fain close our eyes forever. General Hooker again returned to Stafford, and General Lee's troops occupied their old camps, continuing to picket on the banks of the river. The Confederate army remained at Fredericksburg until about the first of June, when General Longstreet, who had been stationed at Blackwater, rejoined it. The army was then divided into three corps; the first under the command of General James Longstreet, the second was commanded by General R. S. Ewell, and the third by General A. P. Hill. CHAPTER VIII. The JPennsylvania Campaign— Battle of GJ-ettysbnrg. General Lee now commenced preparations for the great Penn- sylvania campaign. General Ewell's corps was ordered to advance, and to proceed towards Winchester, and, if possible, to capture 49 the Federal force under Milroy, stationed at that place. As soon as the Federal commander at Fredericksburg discovered this offen- sive demonstration, he immediately began preparations to cross the river, with the hope of forcing General Lee to call back Ewell's corps, then rapidly advancing' toAvards Winchester. The Second Florida regiment, from Prior's brigade, and the Forty-Eighth Mis- sissippi, from Posey's brigade, were on picket at the time the Fed- erals began the construction of their pontoon bridge. The Federals placed about thirty pieces of artillery in position, and brought them all to bear on the point where they were building the bridge, 80 that they might construct it and effect a crossing under cover of their guns. The guns opened simultaneously, and an incessant fire was kept up until the bridge was finished. The two regiments from Prior's and .Posey's brigades withstood this incessant fire until the Federal infantry crossed the bridge, overpowered and captured a large number of them. The Federal infantry thoji formed in line, not far from the river's edge; they did not make any important demonstrations to dislodge Lee, but kept up an almost incessant skirmishing for ten days, when, seeing that Lee would not recall Ewell's corps, they withdrew across the river, and Lee immediately put his whole force in motion, leaving Fredericks- burg on the 14th of June, 1863, taking the plank road from thence toCulpeper Court House, passed through Chancellorsville, crossed the Rapid Ann at Germana, passed through Culpeper, and prc- ceeded toward Winchester. Hill's corps crossed the Blue . Eidge at Chester Gap, and. Long street, bearing further to the right, crossed at Snicker's Gap. Ewell, in the meantime, had attacked Milroy at Winchester and captured a large portion of his forces, dispersing the remainder, and moved on across the Potomac into Maryland and Pennsyl- vania. Lee, with the other portion of his army, followed on his track, crossed the Potomac at Shepardstown, and moved direct from thence through Hagerstown to Chambersburg, Pennsylvania. Here General Ewell met the Pennsylvania militia; they, being unable to stand against him, retreated to Harrisburg, and were 50 followed to the Susquehanna river by General Eai'ly's division of Ewell's corps. The remainder of the army went into camp at Chambersburg to await the return of General Early. In the mean- time, General J. E. B. Stuart flanked the Federal army at Gettys- burg, and made serious demonstrations on Georgetown and Wash- ington City. General Early returned to Chambersburg in the lat- ter part of June, and on the first of July General Lee put his army in motion to meet the Federal army, then under Meade at Gettys- burg. He crossed South Mountain early in the morning of the first. Generals Heth's and Pender's divisions of A. P. Hill's corps led the advance, supported by General Anderson's division. They attacked the Federals about three miles west of Gettysburg, and drove them back to* the town. The corps then took position on the right of Gettysburg; General Ewell bore to the left and Long- street to the right, both connecting with A. P. Hill's corps. Skir- mishing and cannonading was kept up during the day, until both armies had taken .their position and fairly unfolded their lines. The Federal army took position at Cemetery Ridge, east of the town. A beautiful valley, about three-fourths of a mile in width, dotted with beautiful farms and residences, lay stretched between the contend- ing armies. There was nothing to intercept the view except a number of beautiful orchards. On the second of July, General Longstreet attacked the Federals on the right, and Ewell moved forward on the left. A. P. Hill did not move from his position in the centre. Generals Longstreet and Ewell drove the enemy several miles, thereby changing their line into a semi-circle, and it only remained for the centre to be driven from their position to accomplish the victory. In order to convey to the minds of those who may favor this unpretending pamphlet with a perusal, an idea of this battle, we will append a letter of one of the Quitman Guards to his sister: " Not much fighting on the first; were dispirited on the second. On the 3d Kkirmishing opened briskly during the forenoon, with some hard fighting on the right and left. One o'clock was the hour designated for a charge to be made by General Lee from the 51 centre. Our brigade (Posey's) was ordered to support a battery of about thirty-five guns. One o'clock at length came. Each heart throbbed at the thought of the fearful issue. The signal gun was heard, and then commenced the fearful thunder. One hundred and fifty pieces of artillery opened on the Confederate side, which were answered by twice that number on the side of the Federals. The earth fairly quaked from the efiects of the terrible storm. Thou- sands of shells burst around and about us, and the shrill whistle of long balls jarred upon our ears. The firmament seemed to be in a fearful blaze, and the smoke from the guns and shells hid the sun from the view. Not only did human beings feel and suffer this terrible shock, but the birds, attempting to fly, tumbled and fell to the ground. Everything, save the undaunted soldier, seemed to cling to the earth for protection from the terrible storm. Thus the dreadful conflict raged for two long and dreadful hours, The Fed- eral batteries were silenced, then the order to charge was given. Our men were in line in a second, and moved forward with un- daunted courage. The charge was made through a field nearly a mile wide, under a raking fire of grape and canister from the Fed- eral batteries. But the onward rush of the fearless soldiery could not be stayed. The breastworks were before them. A wild yell burst forth from the advancing column of Confederates; then began the work of small arms. Onward still advanced the column until they reached the breastworks. Thousands mounted them, and the Federals, leaving the first, took refuge in the second. Some of the cannoneers were drawn from their guns, but we were unable to hold them. The Federals were now reinforced . Then the work of death redoubled in its fury. Our men fell by hundreds, and we were compelled to retreat to our original position, not in a solid line, but in squads, bleeding with wounds; whole regiments cut to pieces. Thousands had fallen and were left on the field. The Federals suffered greatly, and did not follow us." Seeing the impossibility of dislodging the Federals, and having nearly exhausted the ammunition. Generals Longstreet and Ewell fell back on a direct line with General Hill's corps, to the posi- 52 tions they originally occupied. The two armies, having sufficiently tried the strength of each other, made no further demonstrations, and lay quietly in their positions. Anderson's division was not in the charge on the 3d, but was held in reserve for the protection of the artillery, and to hold the position in the event that the charge was unsuccessful, and the Federals should attempt to drive them from it. Brisk skirmishing was kept up throughout the day on the 4th of July. The Quitman Guards were on the line all day, and, th(.ugh much exposed, had but two men wounded: William R. Reeves, right thumb shot off, and wounded in the hip, and Thomas Jell'- Forrest wounded by the concussion of a shell. The loss of the Confederate army at the battle of Gettysburg was estimated at about fifteen thousand men in killed, wounded and missing, and that of the Federals something above twenty thousand. On the night of the 4th of July General Lee withdrew from Gettysburg, re-crossed South Mountain, and moved south- ward towards the Potomac river. He halted at Hagerstown for several days for the purpose of resting his troops, and to make needful additions to his commissary and ordnance stores. In the meantime, the Federal army moved down on the east side of the mountain, with the intention, it was thought, of cutting off Lee's march into Virginia. But having received a fresh supply of am- munition from Williamsport, General Lee arrayed his troops for battle, with the left wing, under General Ewell, resting on Hagers- town, Md., and the right, under General Longstreet, resting on the Potomac, facing eastward toward the Antietam river. A. P. Hill's corps occupied the centre. The Federal army was drawn up in line of battle near the Antietam river, with their line running parallel with it. The Confederate army, being entrenched, quietly awaited the movements of the enemy. In the meantime, General Meade sen.t a large force of cavalry into Virginia to operate against Lee's rear, and if possible cut off his communication with Stanton, from which place he was constantly receiving large supplies of ammu- 53 nition bj^ means of a wagon train. Finding that the Federals did not intend to attack him at Hagerstown, and his communication being disturbed by their cavalry, General Lee quietly withdrew to the Virginia side of the Potomac. While in line of battle at Hagerstown, General Lee complimented the troops for the fortitude which they had exhibited under so many seemingly insurmounta- ble difficulties. He told them that they had not only been success- ful in repelling the enemy from Virginia, but that they had pene- trated their territory, and had passed through one of the most sanguinary battles ever fought on the American continent. He told them that the ordnance had again been supplied with ammu- nition from Williamsport, and that he now called upon them to exhibit their usual valor. He reminded them of their homes which they left supplied with all the comforts of life, but which were now rendered destitute by the relentless hand of an infuriated enemy. He reminded them of their aged fathers and mothers, their wives and their children, who were looking to them for protection; and he gave them the assurance that the omnipotent hand that had con- ducted them through so many battles, would again be their shield in the day of the coming combat. This appeal, emanating from General Lee, upon whom the affections of the whole army were centred, caused each heart to beat quicker, and each bosom to swell higher with patriotic emotion. General Lee re-crossed the Potomac at Falling Water on the 14th day of July, just one month from the time he left Fredericks- burg. He had marched into Pennsylvania with about one hundred thousand men. Every heart was buoyant with hope, confident of success, and filled with enthusiasm. The affections of the troops for their great leader amounted to reverence; and such entire con. fidence was reposed in him, that danger was disregarded, and Bufferings forgotten. In their ardor to follow him to the deadly conflict, they had traveled more than two hundred miles, and had fought one of the greatest battles upon record; lost about fifteen thousand of their comrades in killed and wounded. All this upon half rations, without a change of clothing, and were 54 now in tatters. Yet not a murmur was heard; and the voice of their beloved General would send an awakening thrill through the heart of the worn and jaded soldier. Arriving at the Virginia side of the Potomac, the Confederates were fired upon by the enemy, but having several guns placed in position so as not to be observed, they soon succeeded in driving them back. General Lee remained at Falling Water two days. He then moved back to Bunker Hill, about fifteen miles from the Potomac, and went into camp. The army was now almost without rations. The men had sub- sisted on short rations since they left their position at Hagerstown, and were now suffering from hunger. The country around Mar- tinsburg, Bunker Hill and Winchester had been desolated by its constant occupation by one or the other of the hostile forces, and it was almost impossible to procure even one-third as much as was necessary to subsist the army now encamped in it. The army subsisted partially, during their week's stay at Bunker Hill, upon dewberries, which, happily for them, covered the ground. No blame can be attached to the commissaries for the want of provi- sions, for, upon investigation, it was found that it was irremediable. General Lee left Bunker Hill about the 2d of July, 1863, re-crossed the Blue Ridge at Chester Gap, and arrived at Culpeper Court House on the 25th, traveling a distance of nearly one hundred miles in five days. Provisions were scarce all along the route, and many of the troops were compelled to subsist upon one pound of flour during the march. Beef and berries were eaten morning, noon and night. On the 1st of August, the Federals crossed a large force of cavalry, supported by infantry, over the Rappahannock. General J. E. B. Stuart was unable to hold them in check, and fell back o-radually until he could be reinforced by infantry. He suffered the enemy to get within one mile of the infantry camps, before they wex'e called upon to assist him. General Anderson's division was ordered to his support. They formed in line near Culpeper Court House, and at right angles with the Orange and Alexandria 55 railroad, and succeeded, with the cavalry, in forcing the enemy- back across the river. The fighting ceased at sundown. The army remained at Cnlpeper until the 3d of August, when it fell back to the south bank of the Rapid Ann river, and went into camp near Orange Court House. General Longstreet's corps was then sent to Tennessee to rein- force General Bragg. The remaining two corps rested quietly in camp during the months of August and September. The Federal army moved into Oulpeper county, establishing head quarters at Culpeper Court House, while the outposts of the two armies eon- fronted each other on the Rapid Ann river. CHAPTER IX. Battles of Bristoe Station and Miine linn. On the 8th of October, 1863, General Lee put his army in motion for the purpose of compelling Meade to evacuate Culpeper. The country there is so situated as to make it impracticable, if not hazardous, for one army to advance upon another direct from Orange Court House, even when they equalled each other in point of numbers. General Lee being, as it was supposed, outnumbered by the foe, accomplished his object by a flank movement to the left of Orange Court House, bearing near the Blue Ridge moun- tain, thus holding the advantage over Meade, who, seeing the whole Confederate force hovering upon his right flank, and threatening his rear, was compelled to retire from Culpeper Court House, and fall back to Manassas. The Federal army retreated on a direct line from Culpeper, followed by General Ewell. General Hill con- tinued to bear close to the mountains, until he reached Warren- ton, where he -took the turnpike road leading through Manassas plains to Alexandria. This corps came up with the Federal cavalry on the l4th of October, near New Baltimore. The Sixteenth Mis- sissippi regiment was in the advance, and the Wilkinson Rifles, 56 under Captain John Lewis, supported by the Quitman Guards, under Captain Bain, were thrown forward as skirmishers. Gene- ral Hill, having discovered that the Federal infantryhad gone into camp at Bristoe Station, about six miles to his right, left the Six- teenth Mississippi regiment, then under the command of Colonel Samuel E. Baker, at New Baltimore, to guard the .road, and if pos- sible, drive the Federal cavalry from the place, moved his corps directly across the country for the purpose of attacking the Fede- ral infantry in their camps. Colonel Baker moved his skirmishers forward, keeping the regiment in supporting distance. The Wil- kinson Rifles had not proceeded far, after forming their line, before they came up with the Federal cavalry, which they immediately engaged. The Federals fought with stubbornness. The Quitman Guards moved up rapidly, and doubled the skirmish line, when both companies rushed forward to the attack. The cavalry fell back until they crossed Broad Run, when they formed in line on a commanding ridge. Companies K and E continued to advance, keeping up a rapid fire. The Federals discharged several delibe- rate volleys at them as they advanced, but did not succeed in checking them. Arriving at Broad Run, the skirmishers, unwilling to be delayed by crossing the bridge, plunged into the stream, crossed over and drove the Federal cavalry from the ridge, and compelled them to continue their retreat. The Quitman Guards were now halted, and the Wilkinson Rifles followed the enemy several miles further. Meeting the Federal infantry at Bristoe Station, General Hill immediately began the attack with Cook's North Carolina brigade of conscripts, of Heth's division, assisted by a battery from Ander- son's division. The Federals, having received the news of the proximity of Hill, were consequently not surprised, but had formed their line of battle in a railroad cut, so as not to be seen by the advancing Confederates. They had thrown their skirmishers sev- eral hundred yards in their front, who did not stop with the line of battle as they fell back, but crossed the railroad, and the uncon- scious North Carolinians marched up within fifty yards of the cut. 57 when the Federals poured a destructive volley into their ranks, killing and wounding a large number, causing them to waver, which being perceived by the Federals, they sprang from their covert, charged them, drove them back, and captured the battery of five guns. Perceiving the sudden repulse of Cook's brigade, and the loss of the battery, General Hill immediately put Ander- son's division, with a few other troops, into action, and in turn drove the enemy from the field, but we believe failed to take the battery. General Ewell's corps not having arrived, and night coming on, General Hill could not pursue the Federals, who retreated under cover of night. The infantry, by orders from Gen. Lee, tore up the railroad track, from Manassas to the Rappahan- nock river. The cavalry pursued the retreating Federals to Bull Run. Brigadier General Carnot Posey was wounded at Bristoe Station, and died at Charlottesville, Virginia, from its effects. He was a good man, a brave and efficient officer, and merited the love, esteem and confidence which the officers and men of his brigade reposed in him. Two of his sons were on his staff at the time of his death, who, with the whole brigade, mourned his loss. Many young men of his brigade have had the advantage of his fatherly advice and guardian care. His loss produced a vacancy which all who knew him, both soldier and civilian, felt it difficult to fill. All felt that one of the brightest stars in the galaxy of generals had fallen. But few of his now bereaved brigade were lost in this engagement. As soon as the destruction of the railroad track was completed, General Lee returned to Culpeper, where he remained until the 1th of November, when the Federals again moved up to the Rappa- hannock and attacked two brigades stationed in rifle pits on that river, under the command of Hays and Hoax. The Federals charged them with a large force in front, and at the same time moved a force by the river's edge in their rear. These two brigades fought until the Federals got into their trenches, and fought hand to hand until they were compelled, by overwhelming numbers, to yield the ground. So sudden was this attack, that there was not sufficient 8 58 time to send reinforcements across the river to their assistance, before they were nearly all captured. The loss of the Confederates was about one thousand in killed, wounded and missing. With the hope of drawing them across the river, General Lee retired early on the morning of the 8th, to within three miles of Cul- peper Court House, and formed his line of battle, where he remained through the day, expecting them to cross the river and attack him. On the following night he caused large fires to be built, left the cavalry to watch the movements of the enemy, and retired with the infantry and artillery, under cover of the night, to the south bank of the Kapid Ann. The cavalry remained in the position at Culpeper until the next day, when they withdrew to the Rapid Ann, followed by the Federals. Arriving at the beautiful plains surrounding Kapid Ann station, a brisk fight ensued between the two cavalry forces, which resulted in nothing definite, each main- taining its position. On the 10th of October there was a considera- ble snow storm, and the troops busied themselves in the construc- tion of shanties to shield themselves, as much as possible, from the piercing winter blast, and quiet reigned through the remaining portion of October and the greater part of November. Knowing that it would be almost impossible to dislodge Lee from his posi- tion on the Rapid Ann, by attacking him immediately in the front, on the 21 ih of November the Federals crossed a heavy force at Germana Ford, on the right of Lee, with the expectation, it was thought, of cutting him off from Richmond, or compelling him to fall back upon that place. But General Lee, being advised of the intentions and movements of the Federals, proceeded to frustrate their plans with the sagacity and prudence always exhibited by him. One corps of the Federal army under General French, crossed at Germana, but before proceeding far into the country, they were attacked by General Edward Johnston's division of EwelPs corps, and driven back across the river. The loss of the Federals was estimated at six hundred prisoners, besides the killed and wounded, ■which was heavy. A large number of wagons and ambulances 69 were destroyed, and two or three hundred horses and mules were brought safely into the Confederate lines. Johnston now returned to the main body of the army, which was moving on the plank road from Orange Court House towards Fredericksburg. The Federals then crossed at Ely's F(3rd, lower down the river, and on the 28th of November the two armies confronted each other in line of bat- tle, on Mine Run, a small stream emptying into the Rapid Ann. The Confederate army was stationed on the west, and the Federal army on the east side of the stream. Each army immediately pro- ceeded to fortify itself, and remained in line, each waiting for the other to begin the attack, until the morning of the 30th. Copious showers had fallen, and the weather was now at a freezing tem- perature, and it was with difficulty that the troops saved them- selves from freezing. The sun arose with unusual effulgence, and was appreciated by the shivering armies. The 30th of November, though not fraught with such momentous results as numerous other days of the war, was made memorable by its sanguinary incidents. The ground was covered with ice and the vegetation, drooping and dying from the effects of the winter's severity, the contemplation of which, mingled with thoughts of the coming struggle, caused a gloom to come over our spirits, which the efful- gence of the rising sun could not wholly dispel. The indistinct sound of artillery was soon heard far away to the left, which was taken up in deafening thunders by the guns all along the line, and reverberated through the distant hills and broad forest which sur- rounded the two armies. The sound of the musketry was unheard amid the booming of the cannon. The Federals moved forward their line of battle behind their skirmishers, and the Confederate skirmishers began to withdraw. As soon as the Federal line emerged from the wood in which it had been stationed, the Con- federate batteries opened npon it, doing much damage. The Con- federate skirmishers fell back to a point about one hundred yards distant from their entrenchments, closely followed by the Federals, when, seeing the effect of their artillery, they faced about, and with an enthusiastic yell, charged the Federal skirmishers and drove 60 them back to their battle line, which had been halted that their oflScers might survey Lee's position before making the assault. Perceiving that General Lee was stationed on a commanding ridge and strongly entrenched, and knowing that an attack upon him would be accompanied with a fearful sacrifice of life, the Federals concluded to withdraw. General Lee did not advance, but re- mained quiet in his position until about three o'clock in the morn- ing of the 2d of December, when, perceiving that the Federals were moving, he took Anderson's division from the trenches, formed the other troops in single line, and moved around on his extreme right, in order to repel any movement made in that quar- ter. But at the dawn of day he found that the Federals had aban- doned their position and re-crossed the Rapid Ann river. The Con- federate army then returned to their winter quarters. The loss of the Confederate army in this affair did not amount to more than five hundred men in killed and wounded. This campaign lasted six days, and though there was not much fighting, the troops suf- fered greatly from the severity of the weather, being compelled to pass the freezing nights without fire; and being thinly clad, they had nothing to shield them from the cutting winds, save their ^,hreadbare blankets. The quarters of the Sixteenth regiment were ei- jcted on a high hill, at the foot of Clark's Mountain, from which position they had a full view of the surrounding country. By ascending Clark's Mountain, we could overlook the Federal camps in Culpcper county, and, with the aid of a glass, could discern more than a dozen towns, each of which had been the scene of numerous battles during the last two years. The open fields of Stafi'ord on tlie right, near Fredericksburg, where the Federal army under Burnside had quartered, was plainly visible. The beautiful valley of the river lay stretched in the distance, and the Blue Ridge, over which we had passed so often, arose on the left in majestic grandeur. Many of the troops had not visited their homes for three years, and though sufiering intensely from the scarcity of clothing and provision, and the exposed duty they had to perform, yet the 61 beauty of the scenery by which they were surrounded enlivened them, while the buoyant hope of an early and successful termina- tion of the war, caused them to look upon their sufferings as of little moment, when compared with the quiet and peace which they hoped soon to enjoy. The chaplains of each regiment held religious services for the benefit of the troops, a majority of whom became deeply interested. A constant religious revival prevailed through the whole army from iJie time of the organization of the- Ohristian Philanthropic Association at United States Ford. Pres- byterians, Methodists, Baptists and Episcopalians united as one brotherhood in the sacred cause of philanthropy, and in the diffu- sion of religion and morality among the soldiers. Conversions were frequent, and the songs of religious worship could be heard in the camps of every regiment, shedding a lustre over the gloom which dreary winter had forced upon them, and cheering the drooping spirits of the suffering soldier. The chief exercise of the troops during their encampment here was fighting mimic battles with snow balls. They were often led by their colonels and company ofScers, and would sometimes fight for hours — until one or the other party was driven from the field, A few furloughs were granted during the winter, but not a suffi- cient number to allow all to visit their homes. General Lee adopted a furlough system which gave a great many more an opportunity to obtain them than could otherwise have done so. Each man was granted a furlough of thirty days, who would fur- nish to the army an able-bodied recruit, noo subject to military duty. This system brought a large number of recruits to the army, who proved themselves good and efficient soldiers by their gallant conduct in the great campaigns which followed, the final results of which decided the fate of the South. We forgot to mention, in its proper place, that Colonel N. H. Harris, of the Nineteenth Mississippi regiment, was promoted to the rank of brigadier-general, to fill the vacancy occasioned by the death of General Posey. 62 CHAPTER X. Campaign of 1864 and 1865. The campaign of 1864 and 1865 was fraught with great conse- qnences, being filled with so many, events, that we feel inadequate to the task of unfolding them to the reader in a clear and distinct manner. We will not attempt a itfnute description of the innume- rable movements and manoeuvres of the array from the beginning of the campaign on the 5th of May, 1864, to the surrender of the army in April, 1865; but will endeavor to give an outline, and confine ourselves principally to the most important incidents con- nected with the Quitman Guards and the Sixteenth Mississippi regiment. After the battle of Chickamauga, in Georgia, in which General Longstreet's corps was engaged, and which resulted in a victory to the Confederate forces, his corps was moved into East Tennes- see, and was engaged during the winter in operations around Knoxville. General U. S, Grant was made lieutenant-general of the United States forces, and placed at the head of the army of the Potomac; and he determined, if possible, to bring the war to a speedy close. General Grant collected a large force immedi- ately in his front, on the Rapid Ann, and sent a force under Gen- eral Butler up James river, which was opposed by a force of Con- federates under General Beauregard. General Longstreet wag now ordered to rejoin the army. General Grant put his army in motion on the 4th of May, and some time during the 5th finished its crossing over the Rapid Ann river at Germana and other adjacent fords, and moved out into a section of country lying between Orange Court House and Frede- ricksburg, called " The Wilderness." General Lee was there with a portion of his forces to meet him, and succeeded in driving him back about a mile, thereby gaining for himself a desirable position. The opposing lines were now formed across the plank road which 63 leads from Orange Court House to Fredericksburg. Early in the morning of the 6th, the remainder of the army arrived and took its position: Longstreet on the right, Hill in the centre, and Ewell on the left, constituting a line nearly six miles in length. Prepara- tions were rapidly going on for a general engagement. The coun- try being level, and thickly covered with timber, rendered artil- lery almost useless. About two o'clock on the 6th of May, Harris' brigade was put into action, and were engaged until dark. It succeeded in driving the Feder^s about two miles. The Quitman Guards, in this engagement, lost but one man — Matthew Wilson — who was mortally wounded. Being some distance in front of the main line of battle, the brigade, as soon as night came on, was ordered back, and took its proper position in line, and immediately began to construct breastworks. On the tth, there was not more than a division that was engaged with the Confederates at the same time. These attacks of the enemy were as often repulsed as made. Late in the evening a severe attack was made on Long- streetj for the purpose of turning his right flank, but without suc- cess. Longstreet fell, severely wounded, while cheering his men in the heat of the assault. The Federals were forced to withdraw. Major-General R. H, Anderson was placed in command of General Longstreet's corps. Brigadier-General Mahone, being senior, assumed command of Anderson's division. Perceiving the impos- sibility of dislodging Lee from his position in the Wilderness, Grant began to move his left toward Spotsylvania Court House, for the purpose of drawing Lee out of the Wilderness into a moi'e open country, and, if possible, turn his right flank, and thus cut him off from Richmond. But Lee watched every movement of his antagonist with an eagle's eye, keeping troops continually in his front. Anderson's corps proceeded to Spotsylvania during the night, to confront the forces sent in that direction by Grant. The remaining portion of the Confederate army was stationed in the Wilderness. This movement left a space between the Wilderness and Spotsylvania unoccupied, through which Lee must pass in order to reach Spotsylvania Court House. The Federals, perceiv- 64 ing this, took immediate advantage of it, by occupying the road. This was on Sunday, the 8th of May. General Lee's whole army was moving to the right, on a line parallel with Grant, and came up with him at Shady Grove, where he had taken possession of the road leading to Spotsylvania Court House. Mahone's division was put into action, and, after about an hour's fighting, succeeded in driving the Federals back, and regaining the road. The loss on the Confederate side was small. T. J. Andrews, of the Quitman Guards, was slightly wounded in the arm by a Minnie ball, but returned to his post after the fight was ended. H. Murray Sandell was also slightly wounded in the thigh ; but with indomitable spirit and dauntless courage, he marched on with his wounds uncared for. As the Confederates kept several can- non continually playing on the retreating column of Federals, their loss was heavier than that of the Confederates. On the 9th, the army moved to Spotsylvania Court House, where Anderson had entrenched himself, and was opposing a heavy force of Federals. Lee's line was formed in front of the Court House, facing north toward the river Po. The Confederates strongly for- ti£ed themselves, and quietly awaited the attack. On the lOtb, the Federals made a number of desperate assaults on different por- tions of Lee's line, but without success. The Texas Brigade, it was said, was charged seventeen times during the day. Having an advantageous position, with strong breastworks, and trees felled in front, it was successful in repelling every charge. In the afternoon. Grant brought a force to bear on Lee's left. He succeeded in placing a few guns in position, and began to enfilade the Confederate line. Hill's corps was on the left, and was commanded by Major General Early, who moved Heth's division to the left, and across the river Po, so as to con- front the Federals, and at the same time flanked them with a heavy line of skirmishers. The Federals had fortified themselves, but being attacked in the front, and flanked simultaneously, they were compelled to yield to their determined assailants, leaving several pieces of artillery, which fell into the hands of the Confederates, 65 Mahone's division immediately crossed the river Po, and took possession of tlie commanding' ridge from which the Federals had been driven. The troops devoted the day of the 11th to fortifying this position. In the meantime, severe fighting was kept up on different portions of the line, which resulted in nothing of impor- tance. On the night of the 11th, General Grant massed a heavy force on the centre, in front of the division commanded by Major-Gene- ral Edward Johnston. They moved very quietly under protection of a hill, and succeeded in gaining a point about thirty yards dis- tant from the Confederate breastworks. At this place the lines swung around so as to assume the shape of ahorse shoe; and from the desperate fighting there, this place received the appellation of " Bloody Bend." General Grant, taking advantage of a thick fog on the morning of the 12th, charged the Confederate lines. There was not sufficient time for the firing of but one volley before the Federals were in the trenches in overwhelming numbers, capturing General Edward Johnston, with about twenty-five hundred of his men. Mahone's division was immediately ordered to leave its position on the left, and proceeded in double quick time to Spot- sylvania. On arriving there, Harris' brigade, with McGowan's South Carolina brigade, of Wilcox s division, were chosen to retake the works so captured by the Federals from Johnston's division. The Sixteenth Mississippi regiment was in advance of the brigade, and being unfortunately led by an officer (not of the brigade) who disobeyed his orders, and left General Harris in the critical hour, it marched by the flank within a very short distance of the Federals, and received a murderous fire. Fortunately thtre was a row of breastworks near hy, sufficiently large to protect the brigade until it could form properly to make the charge. General Harris stood on top of these works, exposed to a shower of bullets, in order to ascertain the point of attack with as much exactness as the dense fog would permit, and then ordered his men forward. Apprehending the desperate and bloody character of the prospec- tive charge, the men at first hesitated, but seeing their colors 66 moving forward, borne by the gallant Alexander Mixon, whose clarion-like voice resounded along the line, urging the men to follow, they hesitated no longer, but rushed forward through a storm of bullets, and were in a short time in possession of the trenches. McGowan's South Carolinians were to take the works on the right, but having mistaken their course, and being prevented by the dense fog from perceiving that Harris' brigade had possession of the trenches, they fired into that brigade, and moved up to the same point occupied by it, thus leaving the works on the right still in possession of the Federals. The Federals now fell back to the brow of the hill, when the contest assumed truly a desperate character. Charge after charge was made by the Federals with great desperation. Brigade after brigade was pushed forward by them; but notwithstanding these desperate charges, and the enfi- lading fire to which the Confederates were exposed, they held their own, without a minute's cessation of musketry, for twenty hours. A continuous shower of rain fell during the time, and the ditches were filled with water, reddened with the blood that gushed from the mangled forms of the slain and wounded. Dead men literally covered the ground. Trees as large as a man's body were whit- tled down by Minie balls. Thousands of the gallant slain, friend and foe, were piled promiscuously over the field No record, in either ancient or modern warfare, furnishes anything like a paral- lel to the heroism here exhibited, or the fearful carnage which characterized this battle. We will not attempt to describe the heart-rending scene, exhibited by the bloody field of Spotsylvania, after the battle. It is sufficient for those who have seen war's red visao-e, to say that it was awful in the extreme. It was there that those gallant officers. Colonel Samuel E. Baker and Lieutenant Colonel A. M. Feltus, of the Sixteenth Mississippi, fell. They fell covered with laurels, but their loss was regarded by all as a heavy and irreparable calamity. No officers were more beloved, or the recipients of more unbounded confidence. It was felt by the whole army that two more of the stars from the galaxy of noble spirits, 67 had fallen. The casualties of the Sixteenth Mississippi regiment were heavier in this than any other previous battle. Company F lost twelve men killed. The following are the casualties of the Quitman Guards: Alexander Mixou, color bearer, and Elisha T. Rushing, killed. H. D. Sandifer, Robert D. Stovall and L. W. Conerly, wounded. The loss of the regiment was one hundred and fifty-one killed, wounded and missing. The conduct of the Con- federate troops engaged at " Bloody Bend," in the buttle of Spot- sylvania Court House, not only drew forth the praise of their own generals, but elicited the admiration of the Federal generals, one of whom afterwards stated, in an order to their troops, that the conduct of the Confederates, on the 12th of May, was truly sub- lime. It was stated upon the evidence of General Johnston, that during the twenty-two hours of this engagement, the two Confed* erate brigades (Harris' and McGowan's) were opposed by forty thousand Federals. General Ewell was so highly pleased with the gallantry exhibited by Harris' brigade, in holding the breast- works which it had taken, that he issued a special complimentary order, accompanied by a written statement from General Edward Johnston, of the number of Federals which opposed it, and the few other troops engaged at " Bloody Bend." We hereto append the letter from General Ewell to General Harris: Headquarters DEPARTjfEXT of Richmond, ) Richmond, Va., Dec. 27th, 1864. ) General N. H. Harris, Commanding Brigade : General — I have omitted to acknowledge the valuable services rendered by your brigade on the 12th May, instant, at Spotsylva- nia, not from any want of appreciation, but because I wish my thanks to re.st upon the solid foundation of official reports. The manner in which your brigade charged over the hills to recapture our works, was witnessed bj'- me with intense admiration for men who could advance so calmly to what seemed and proved almost certain death. I have never seen troops under a hotter fire than was endured on this day, by your brigade and some others. Major General Edward Johnston, since his exchange, has assured me that the whole strength of the enemy's army was poured into the gap caused by the capture of his command. He estimates the force 68 engaged at this place, on their side, at lorty thousand, besides Bir- ney's command of perfectly fresh troops. Prisoners from all of their three corps were taken by us. Two divisions of my corps, your brigade and two others, (one of which was scarcely engaged,) confronted successfully this immense host, and not only won from them nearly all the ground they had gained, but so shattered their array that they were unable again to make a serious attack .until they received fresh troops. I have not forgotten the conduct of the Sixteenth Mississippi regiment, while under my command, from Front Royal to Malvern Hill. I am glad to see, from a trial more severe than any experienced while in my division, that the regi- naent is in a brigade of which it may well be proud. Very respectfully, Your obedient servant, (Signed) R. S. Ewell, Lieutenant General. The colors of the Sixteenth Mississippi regiment were perforated by about two hundred and fifty bullets in this fight. A severe fight occurred on the 19th, which came near resulting in a general engagement, more artillery being used on that day than on the 12th. From that time to the investment of Richmond and Peters- burg, and up to the surrender of General Lee, the " Array of Nor- thern Virginia" and that of the Potomac, confronted each other in line of battle. The two arraies left Spotsylvania about the 20th, and marched in parallel lines with oach other, fighting nearly every day. On the 23d they arrived in the vicinity of Hanover Junc- tion, where some skirmishing occurred. On the 24th, the Confed- erate army moved back about a mile to prepare for the advance of the enemy, who had crossed the Anna river. The Federals began to advance in the afternoon, and were met by skirmishers from Harris' brigade and two regiments of an Alabama brigade. The Federals were driven back, losing a considerable number in killed, wounded and prisoners. The array then moved, and took position on the Cljickaborainy river, being nearly the same occupied by it during the seven days' battle before Richmond. On the 3d of June a considerable battle was fought at Cold Harbor, (the scene of a 6d great battle in ttie same month nearly two years before,) which resulted in the repulse of the Federals. On the 6th of June the Quitman Guards lost one man, J. D. Stanford, killed in a skirmish charge at Turkey Ridge, near the Chickahominy river. This brings us up to the investment of Richmond and Peters- burg, and for the ten months following incessant firing was kept up and innumerable battles fought on the flanks. On the 18th of June, Harris' brigade was put in the trenches at Petersburg, where it remained for five months, exposed to a constant cannonading and fire from sharpshooters, losing more or less men every day. Some time in July it was ordered out of the trenches, and was shortly afterwards engaged in a fight at the Davis House, near the Weldon railroad, which resulted in the repulse of the Federals, with the loss of sixteen hundred prisoners. The brigade was then ordered back to the trenches. On the Itth of August it was again taken out of the trenches, went to Richmond, and was engaged in a fight on the 18th at New Market. On the 19th we took the cars and returned to Petersburg, and were on the 21st engaged in a fight on the Weldou railroad. During the absence of some of Lee's troops on that portion of the line, the Federals moved in, took pos- session of the I'oad and fortified themselves. Mahone's division attacked them for the purpose of driving them out, but being some- what mistaken in their position, his division suffered greatly, and did not succeed in getting possession of the road. The Sixteenth regiment lost heavily on this occasion ; Colonel Council was wounded and captured, Lieutenant Colonel S. McNeil Bain was also captured. The casualties of the Quitman Guards were as fol- lows: A. E. Ard and Tilman S. Larakin, killed; W. J. Lamkin, wounded; S. R. Lamkin, wounded and taken prisoner. Twelve others were captured, whose names may be found in the statistical report of the company, to be found at the commencement of this sketch. After the fight on the Weldon railroad, the brigade returned to its position in the trenches before Petersburg, where it remained 70 until about the 12th of November. It was then again taken out, moved about three miles to the right, and built winter quarters, but was almost constantly on active duty in repelling advances made by the Federals on the front and right. The two opposing lines were about two hundred yards ap'art, and kept up a continual picket firing and cannonading. The suffering of the army while quartered here was intense, the men having nothing to shield them from the rain, sleet and snow. Great scarcity of wood prevailed; we had but few blankets, and they inferior in quality. But half clothed and half fed, we were, in this condition, compelled to pass this freezing winter in trenches, knee deep in mud or filled with ice and snow. Yet, with unprecedented endurance, the men stood at their posts, keeping up their spirits by a continual interchange of leaden compliments with the enemy. Railroad communication with the South was at length cut off, thus causing a greater scarcity of provisions and supplies. This, together with the known con- stant and large accessions to the Federal army, caused despond- ency, if not despair, for the first time to settle upon the " Army of Northern Virginia." On the 5th and 6th of February, 1865, the Federals attempted a flank movement on Lee by way of Hatcher's Run, south of Petersburg, but were attacked and driven back. Harris' brigade was engaged in this attack, but its loss was small. On the 1st of March Harris' brigade occupied the position between the Appomatos and James rivers, then recently vacated by Pic- ket's division, which division was sent to some other portion of the line. General Sheridan began serious demonstrations on Rich- mond with his cavalry, and Harris' brigade, with Stuart's and Caussey's Virginia brigades, were sent out to check his movements, which they succeeded in doing. They then returned to their quar- ters, between the Appomatox and James rivers, where they re- mained until the 2d day of April. The Federals finally succeeded in flanking General Lee at Hatcher's Run, and at the same time succeeded in breaking our lines on the right of Petersburg, held by Heth's and Wilcox's divi- sions. Early in the morning of that day, Harris' brigade left its 71 position between the Appomatox and James rivers, being ordered to reinforce the troops which had lost their works on the right of Petersburg. Arriving at that place, they immediately went into action, but were compelled to fall back slowly before the over- whelming numbers of the Federals, until they arrived at Fort Gregg, where they made a stand and fought with desperate deter- mination. Though the number in the fort did not overreach one hundred, yet they succeeded in repulsing the Federals several times, inflicting great slaughter, and did not surrender until the fort was filled with overwhelming numbers of the enemy. As it may not be deemed inappropriate, we here append a portion of an article written by a correspondent of the London Fortnightly Re- view, though we disagree with him as to the numbers in the fort: " The oflBcer in command of Fort Alexander, which was far- therest away from the oncoming Federals, deemed it more impor- tant to save his guns than to try and help Fort Gregg. Receiving no assistance from its twin-brother, Fort Gregg, manned by Har- ris' Mississippi brigade, numbering two hundred and fifty un- daunted men, breasted intrepidly the tide of its multitudinous assailants. Three times Gibbon's corps surged up and around the works — three times, with dreadful carnage, they were driven back. I am told that it was subsequently admitted by Gen. Gibbon, that in carrying Fort Gregg he lost five or six hundred men, or in other words, that each Mississippian inside the works struck down at least two assailants. When at last the works were carried, there remained out of its two hundred and fifty defenders but thirty sur- vivors. In those nine memorable days there was no episode more glorious to the Confederate arms than the heroic self-immolation of the Mississippians in Fort Gregg, to gain time for their com- rades." In this desperate struggle for the fort, William L. Sparkman and Sergeant Robert D. Stovall, of the Quitman Guards, lost their lives. Colonel Duncan, then in command of the Sixteenth Mississippi regiment, was severely wounded, Lieutenaut-General Hill was 72 killed in the attempt to cut his way out. All of the Sixteenth and Twelfth regiments were captured. The two other regiments, Nineteenth and Forty-eighth, under General Harris, made their escape. The Confederate army evacuated Petersburg on the night of the 2d of April, and retreated to Appomatox Court House, the retreat being covered principally by the remaining portion of Mahone's division. This was the last retreat of the " Array of Northern Virginia." After four years of incessant battles, arduous marches, and unpar- alleled sufferings, it surrendered to the " Army of the Potomac" at Appomatox Court House, Va., on the 9tb of April, 1865. Sher- man was approaching from Wilmington, by way of Goldsboro, N, C , with a force of seventy-five thousand men. Thomas was moving with a force of fifty thousand by way of Knoxville. Tenn., into North Carulina. The gallant " Army of Northern Virginia" being reduced to about one-sixth its former numbers, without pro- visions or munitions of war, and being now confronted by a force of one hundred and twent^i-five thousand strong, there was no recourse but to surrender. \Vc here append the correspondence between Generals Lee and Grant upon the subject of the surrender. GENERAL GRANT TO GENERAL LEE. April Tth. General R. E. Lee : The result of the last week must convince you of the hopeless- ness of further resistance on the part of the Army of Northern Virginia in this struggle. I feel that it is so, and regard it as my duty to shift from myself the responsibility of any further eflTusion of blood, by asking of you the surrender of that portion of the Confederate States armies, known as the Army of Northern Vir- ginia. Very Respectfully, U. S. Grant, Lieutenant- General. 73 GENERAL LES TO GEA'ERAL GRANT. April n: General: I have received your note of this date. Though not entirely of the opinion you expre.ss of the hopelessness of farther resistance on the part of the Army of Northern Virginia, I respect your desire to evade the useless effusion of blood; and, therefore, before considering your proposition, ask the terms you will offer as condition of surrender. R. E. Lee. GENERAL GRANT TO GENERAL LEE. April 8, General: Your note of last evening, in reply to mine of same date, asking on what condition you will accept the surrender of the Army of Northern Virginia, is received. In reply, I would say, that, peace being my first desire, there is but one condition I insist on: namely, that the men surrendered shall be disqualified from taking up arms against the government of the United States, jintil properly exchanged. I will meet you, or designate officers to meet any officers you may name for the same purpose, at any point agreeable to you, for the purpose of arranging definitely the terms on which the surrender of the Army of Northern Virginia will be received. Very Kespectfally, U. S. Grant, Lieutenanl-GeneraJ. GENERAL LEE TO GENERAL GRANT. April 8. General: T received, at u iate Iiour, a note in answer to mine yes- terday. I did not intend to propose the surrender of the Army of Northern Virginia, but ask the terms of your proposition; but to be frank, I do not think the emergency has arisen to call for the surrender; but as the restoration of peace should be the sole object of all, I desire to know whether your proposals would tend to that end. I cannot, therefore, meet you with a view to surrender the Army of Northern Virginia; but as far as your proposition 74 may affect the Confederate States forces under my command, and tend lo the restoration of peace, I shall be pleased to meet you at 10 A. M., to-morrow, at the old stage road to Richmond, between the picket lines of the two armies. Very Respectfully, R. E. Lee. GENERAL GRANT TO GENERAL LEE. April 9. General: Your note of yesterday is received. As I have no authority to treat on the subject of peace, the meeting proposed at 10 A. M., to-day, could lead tb no good, I will state, however, General, that I am equally anxious for peace with yourself, and the whole North entertain the same feeling. Terms hy which peace can be had, are well understood by the South. By laying down their arms, they will hasten that most desirable event, save thousands of human lives, and hundreds of millions of property not yet destroyed. Sincerely hoping that all our difficulties may be settled without the loss of another life, I subscribe myself, Very Respectfully, U. S. Grant, Lieutenant-General. GENERAL LEE TO GENERAL GRANT. April 9. General: I received your note oi this morning on the picket line, whither I had come to meet you, and ascertain definitely what terms were embraced in your proposition of yesterday, with refer- ence to the surrender of this army. I now request an interview in accordance with the terms offered, contained in yours of yes- terday, for that purpose. Very Respectfully, Your ob't Serv't, R. E. Lee, General. 75 GENERAL GRANT TO GENERAL LEE. April 9. To General R. E. Lee, commanding C. S. Armies : Your note of this date is but this moment (11:15 A. M.) received, in consequence of my having passed from the Richmond and Lynchburg railroad to the Jonesville and Lynchburg road. I am, at this writing, about four miles west of Walter's Church, and will push forward to the front for the purpose of meeting you. Notice sent to me on this road, where you wish the interview to take place, will meet mo. Very Respectfully, Your Ob't Serv't, U. S. Grant, Lieutenant- General. GENERAL GRANT TO GENERAL LEE. AppoiiATOS, April 9th. General R. E. Lee, commanding C. S. Armies : In accordance with the substance of my letter to you of the 8th, I propose to receive the surrender of the Army of Northern Vir- ginia, on the following terms, to-wit: the rolls of all the officers and men to bo made in'duplicate, one copy to be given to an officer designated by me, and the other to be retained by such officers as you may designate; the officers to give their individual paroles not to take up arms against the government of the United States, until properly exchanged, and each company or regimental com- mander sign a like parole for the men of their commands; the arms, artillery and public property to be parked and stacked, and turned over to the officers appointed by me to receive them. This will not embrace the side arms of the officers, and not their pri- vate horses or baggage. This done, each officer and man will be allowed to return to their homes, not to be disturbed by the United States authorities, so long as they observe their paroles, aud the laws in force where they reside. Very Respectfully, U. S. Grant, Lieutenant- GeneraL general lee to general grant. Head Quarters Army Northern Virginia, ) April 9th. ) Lieutenant- General Grant: 1 have received your letter of this date, containing terms of surrender of the Army of Northern Vir- ginia, as proposed by you; and as they are the same expressed in your letter of the 8th instant, they are accepted. I will propose to designate the proper oflBcers to carry the stipulations into effect. Very Respectfully, E. E. Lee. We here copy from the correspondent of the London Fortnightly Review, the following : " As the great Confederate Captain rode back from his inter- view with General Grant, the news of the surrender acquired shape and consistency, and could no longer be denied The effect upon the worn and battered troops, some of whom had fought since April, 1861, and (sparse survivors of hecatombs of fallen com- rades) had passed unscathed through such hurricanes of shot as within four years no other men had experienced, passed mortal description. Whole lines of battle rushed up to their beloved old chief, and, choking with emotion, broke ranks and struggled with each other to wring him once more by the hand. Men who had fought throughout the war, and knew what the agony and humili- ation of that moment must be to him, strove, with a refinement of unseiiishness and tenderness which he alone could fully appreciate, to lighten his burden and mitigate his pain. Lee at length com- manded voice enough to say: " Men, we have fought through the war togethei\ I have done the best that I could for you." Not an eve that looked on that scene was dry. Nor was this emotion of sickly sentimentalists, but of rough and rugged men, familiar with hardships, danger and death in a thousand shapes, mastered by sympathy'- and feeling for another, which they never expe- rienced on their own account. I know of no other passage of military history so touching, unless, in spite of the melo-dramatic coloring which French historians have loved to shed over the ecene, it can be found in the Adieux de Fontainbleau." 77 GENERAL R. E. LKE's FAREWELL TO HIS ARMY. NORTHERJ April 10, 1865 Headquarters Army of Northern Virginia, ) General Orders No. 9. After four years of arduous service, marked by unsurpassed courage and fortitude, the Army of Northern Virginia has been compelled to yield to overwhelming numbers and resources. I need not tell the brave survivors of so many hard fought bat- tles, who have remained steadfast to the last, that I have con- sented to this result from no distrust of them. But feeling that valor and devotion could accomplish nothing, that could compensate for the loss that would have attended the continuance of the contest, I determined to avoid the useless sac- rifice of those whose past services have endeared thbm to their countrymen. By the terms of the agreement, the officers and men can return to their homes and remain until exchanged. You will take with you the satisfaction that proceeds from the consciousness of duty faithfully performed, and I earnestly pray that a merciful God will extend to you His blessings and protection. With an unceasing admiration of your courage and devotion to your country, and a grateful remembrance of your kind and gen- erous consideration for myself, I bid you an affectionate farewell. R. E. Lee, General. ERRATA. Page 11, 9th line, instead of " 21st Regt.," read "21st Georgia Regiment." Page 44, 14th line, instead of J. "Dumay" Travis, read J. "Quincy" Travis. Page 50, 32d line, instead of ''were dispirited," read ''more despei'ate." Page 51, 25th line, instead of "drawn," read "driven." Page 64, 10th line, insteafl of "after." read "before."