Civil War Diary of John A. Hiestand Contributed for use in the USGenWeb Archives Copyright 1999 K C Thacker Preface John Alexander Hiestand was the son of William McMahan "Mack" Hiestand and Susan Jane Rodman (my gg-grandparents). He was born 31 Oct 1841 in Vermilion Co., IL and died 25 Jan 1870 in Clinton, Vermillion Co., IN. He married Mary R. Rush, daughter of Samuel Rush and Sarah on 22 Jan 1868, in Clinton, Vermillion Co., IN. His brothers and sisters were: Sarah Ann Hiestand (m. Charles Griffin); Harriet Emily Hiestand (m. Theodore Jerauld); Elizabeth "Lizzie" Jane Hiestand (m. John H. McLean); James William Hiestand; Charles H. Hiestand; Hetty Alice Hiestand (m. Lemuel T. Graves); Clara May Hiestand (m. William M. Timmons). Half brothers and sisters were: Katurah "Tura" Hiestand (m. Oliver Moulton); Charles William Hiestand (m. Retta Walker Jakeway); Renetta Hiestand (m. Luttrel); Edwin Hiestand. John was raised in Vermilion County, Illinois and moved to Clinton, Vermilion County, Indiana before the Civil War. His residence was given as both Fairmont, Vermilion County, Illinois and Helt Township, Vermillion County, IN. John enrolled as a private, age 22, with his childhood friend Alonzo L. Mack, from Clinton, Vermillion Co., IN, in Lieut. Joseph Utter's Detachment for the 123rd Indiana Volunteer Infantry, which became Company C, when mustered into the U.S. service for three years on 7 Mar 1864, at Terre Haute, Indiana. This regiment (Co. C, 123rd Ind. Regt.) was organized at Greensburg, Indiana, in 1864, under General J.C. McQuiston. Co. C was organized and captianed by Joseph Utter of Newport. Being organized late in the war the fighting at that time was in the Georgia and Carolina areas. They helped take Atlanta in 1864, and in 1865 pursued General Hood into Carolina around Wilmington and thus adding to the pressure ring closing in on General Lee in Virginia. John Q. Washburn who was a member of Co. C was promoted to Captain and given command of Co. C of the 129th Indiana Regiment in 1864. They were mustered out August 25, 1865. In his diary, which covers the year 1864, John mentions the fate of many of his comrades and describes the battles he was engaged in. For more information on John Hiestand's family, contact Katherine C. Thacker, 5235 South Elm Avenue, Homosassa, FL, 34448, or kthacker@xtalwind.net Information submitted by Katherine Thacker with excerpts from Kent Douglas Hiestand and the Illiana Genealogical and Historical Society. Roster, Co. C, 123rd Ind. Regt. Captain Privates Privates Joseph D. Utter Calaway Cottrell William C. Myers Lieutenants Samuel Craig John H. McDonald Joseph Abbot William F. Cross Milton Mills Thos. H. Allen Levi Cline Elijah B. Mattox Lewis Coil Valentine Cline Isaac N. McKahan Joseph McClellan James E. Cardwell Alonzo L. Mack Sergeants Henry H. Croen Cephas Noyes Samuel E. Hunt Thomas J. Douglass Jeremiah Nichols David L. Chambers Howard Downs Jefferson J. Nichols Eli Palmer John M. Dinwiddie William O. Payton Corporals Cornelius S. Davis John H. Parkison Michael Casey John Devlin George A. Patterson James M. Youmans Thomas Eviston George W. Ridings Thos. Blunk Benjamin English Stillman Richings Wm. N. Hollingsworth William Eggleston William H. Robinson Josephus W. Lake John W. Floyd Robert B. Rodgers Isaac Cowell George H. Fisher Asa Rosson Richard J. Craig William F. Floyd Joseph Sparks Privates Herod Fringer William F. Shelato Volney M. Albridge Perry F. Ford Wm. C. Shannon Thomas H. Allen Daniel B. Gilpen Thomas D. Shaw William H. Aikman George Goff John Spaulding Joseph Abbott Stratton Hollingsworth Theodore Shannon Stephen Bigney Henry Hollingsworth Peter Smith Jeremiah Brown Adam H. Hartman Alexander V. Sherman John W. Brindley John Hasty Richard Stokesberry George Bradshaw John Heistand Robert A. Taylor Silas Brown Albert T. Harnbaker Stephen Trader John H. Bogart Andrew J. Hamilton Daniel Thornton Jerome Bensom John W. Ike John P. Thompson David Bruner Asbury Jacks Nathaniel E. Thompson John D. Ball Leander Jacks William Underwood Andrew B. Collins Nimrod Jackson James Walker J. B. Coleman James Landies Wm. Wise Michael Conoway John H. Luce Ulysses Williamson John D. Collett John M. Lazwell Asbury Williamson Francis C. Combs Andrew Laney John Q. Washburn John C. Lewis John B. Wilson Joseph Lunger James Warren George Yapp DIARY OF JOHN A. HIESTAND In this it will be seen that on the 19th day of December, 1863, he enlisted at Numa, Indiana under Captain (----- Page torn) of Clinton, Indiana in the Company ----- he is a member on the 8th day of March, the Co. moved to Camp Carrington, Indianapolis, Indiana on the 14th it again moved to Greensburg Decatur (?) Co., Indiana, at which place it joined the Regt. being lettered Co. C. or the Collor (?) Co. of the 123rd ----- Ind. Vols., on the 18th the Regt. moved to --Lawrenceburg, Ind., there took passage for -----the steamer Izzetta, bound for Louis-----(ville), KY at which place it arrived in the evening of the 19th there went into the Camp Taylor. Barracks, on the evening of the 25th the Regt. again moved out enroute for Nashville, Tenn. where it arrived and again went into Camp on the 27th, there it remained until the morning of April 5th when it with the 1st Division under command of Genl Hovey comprised of 2 Brigades the 1st composed of the following Regts 120th, 124th, & 128th and commanded by Col. Dehart of the 128th, the 2nd Brigade under the command of Col. McQuiston (J.C. McQuiston) of the 123rd and comprised of the following Regts the 123rd, 129th and 130th Ind., the six foregoing are all New Regts from Ind., after a fatigue----of 19 days the Division pitched tents in ----- (Cleveland, Tenn?) on the morning of April 23rd on ----- of May 3rd the Division again started on an active campaign having been assigned to the 23rd Corps under command of Genl Schofield. Co. C. has passed with the Regt through the Georgia campaign and the writer is prone to say that never until the 30th day of July was he absent (-----from?) his company exceed 14 hours (except while on ----- the 1st day of Feb 1864 or the 30th day of July ----- by the (surgeon?) of the Regt sent to the Corps -----(hospital?) Marietta, GA on the 14th day of Sept, he again rejoined the Company and still remains with a -----having made an imperfect acct of the travels & he finds that he has carried a gun & knapsack & c. for upwards of 1000 miles. During the time he has traveled by rail 22 m's in road wagons 35 m's in ambulance 5 m's. This is since the 5th of April 1864. The Regt. has during the campaign been under fire of the enemy an average of 12 hours in every 24 for 60 successive days, has lost in different engagements. Killed & wounded near 100 of its members. Commissioned officers not included. Officers killed 2 Captains & 2 (Lieut.) of this estimate Co. C. has lost two Sergeants and three privates killed, one private wounded and the number wounded & recovered is 8, died of disease 8, deserted 4, the foregoing is a full & correct statement of the casualties of Co. C. 123rd Ind. Vols. of which the writer is a member. (Next line unable to read)This (Jun ?) 18th, 1868, Clinton, Ind. - J.A. Hiestand. Jan 1st 1864 Clinton, Ind. - done nothing in A.M. at S. Macks this evening, very cold, nothing of importance today. Jan 2nd Had a good time today, came to town this evening, moderating some. Sunday, Jan 3rd Came to S. Mack's this morning with G. W. Yapp (George W.), A.L. Mack (Alonzo L.), Mollie & Sarah went sleighing with Leon, took Misses N.J. & A.F. Jan. 4th G.W. Yapp started home this morning. Leon & I came to T. Haute (Terre Haute) today. Stopped at Rankins. Jan. 5th Went to camp at 9 A.M. this morning got a furlough, stopped in Clinton for dinner, came to S.M.'s this eve, went to John James to party, took Miss N.E.M. had a pleasant time. Jan. 6th Came to Newport this morning with Uncle Ed James, arrived at 11 A.M., found all well. Good night. Jan. 7th In Newport until Noon, started to Healts (Helts) Prairie, rode to Uncle's farm with him, walked to Highland, seen Davis Pate, rode on sleigh with A.L.M. (Alonzo L. Mack?) & girls, went to meeting with Mer Mack. Jan. 8th Helped Leon get wood in A.M., A.L. & I went to Ed James in sleigh, went from there Nebekers School House for the girls, went to church tonight with Miss N.E.M. Jan. 9th Went with A.L. to Crabb's Mill also to Clinton, returned this evening, him & I took Miss N.J. & A.F. home from church, had a good time, got back at 12 o'clock. Jan. 10th Sunday Went this morning to Ed James also J. James. I took Miss N.E.M., Annie & Carrie R. to Highland, stopped at Mer Edward's, returned this evening, went to church at night. Jan. 11th A.L.M. & started to Clinton. Leon turned back at Curtis. Came to Uncle Ed's with him this eve, went to church tonight with (Cruze ?) & girls.Nomore tonight. Jan. 12th Went to S.R. James with Uncle Ed, went to E. James with Annie & Nan for supper, took Miss N.J. to church tonight. Jan. 13th Went to Clinton this morning with Uncle (Elijah or Elize?) & wife, upset sleigh on the road, had a great time, generally, returned in evening, went with Miss N.J. to church, had a gay old time. (mistake Sunday void - as written) Jan. 14th Went to church today at 10 o'clock, had a good meeting. Nan & I went to S. Macks for dinner, went to church at night, went home with Miss. N.E.M., had a pleasant time. Jan. 15th A.L.M., his cousin Neal, Naomi & myself went to Clinton in A.M., returned in evening, went to church tonight. Uncle Will & family here tonight. Jan. 16th A.L.M., C.S. Davis (Cornelius S. Davis?) & I took the girls to (Bono ?) this morning. Noami & I took dinner at David Macks, went to C. Macks this evening, met with the Miss Jordans, returned in time for church tonight. Jan. 17th Sunday Went to Henry Barnherds in A.M., from there to church, stopped at S. Macks from meeting to Uncle Ed James for dinner, from there to Elijah James went with Miss N.J. to meeting at night, went to bed at the usual hour - 2 o'clock. Jan. 18th Went to S. Macks this morning, started for camp with A.L.M. (Alonzo L. Mack), C.S.D. (Cornelius S. Davis), at 9 A.M. arrived at 1 P.M., Barracks burned, returned to meeting at 6 1/2, went from there to Eddie James. Miss N.E.M. there also. Good night. Tuesday, Jan. 26th Went from Renkins up in the City this morning. Met G.W. Yapp (George W. Yapp) on the street, we started to Clinton at 10 A.M., arrived in eve. Jan. 27th In town all day, very dull, had some sport this evening, seen Davis Pate. Yank Robinson married tonight, went to bed at 11 o'clock. Jan. 28th In town until 2 P.M. went out to James with John. G.W. Yapp (George W. Yapp) took Miss A.F. & Miss N.J. to Orvel White's to party, had a good time, heard of Palmer's death. Jan. 29th At Elijah James' until evening, had a gay time, rained some, came to S. Mack's this evening. Jan. 30th At Mer Mack's all day, went to see Miss N.J. in the evening, sit up until 2 o'clock, had a pleasant time as usual.Nomore today. Sunday, Jan. 31st Went from James to S. Mack's this morning, from there to Clinton also to camp, rained all day, took supper at Rankins, got to camp at dark. Goodbye. Jan. gone up Feb 1st Went from camp to city at 2 P.M. 31st Ind. came in on the train, the reception prepared for them was a splendid one, returned to camp at 5 P.M., wrote one letter to William Randolph. Feb. 2nd Went to city three times today, seen nothing of interest, had some difficulty with Bushnell tonight. Feb. 3rd In camp all day, had some singing tonight, had orders at 9 tonight to go to Paris, Ill. Started at 2 A.M., arrived there at 3, went to the C.H., remained until morning. Sleep played out. Feb 4th Took breakfast at Mer Young's this morning, had a splendid dinner prepared by the citizens, started back to Terre Haute at midnight, arrived at 2 o'clock. Feb. 5th Marched to city at 9 A.M., delivered up arms, returned to camp at 12 M., some singing tonight. I am thinking of home tonight, would like to be there. J.A.H. Feb. 6th Went to city this P.M. on a pass, nothing of importance transpired today, very dull. Sunday, Feb. 7th In camp all day, went to church tonight, heard Mer Nebeker deliver a good sermon, wrote one letter to father.Nomore. Feb. 8th In camp today, company drill in A.M., went to city in P.M., seen nothing there to interest me. Feb. 9th In camp today, drilled 2 hours in A.M. also 2 in P.M., nothing of importance transpired today. F. 10th Drilled in A.M., policed quarters in P.M., mustering Officer expected false alarm, short drill in P.M. Feb. 11th In camp all day on guard duty 4 hours today. Nothing else today. I'm thinking of one at (blank). Feb. 12th In camp today, had an election today. J.D. Utter (Joseph D. Utter) Capt., T.H. Allen (Thos. H. Allen) 2nd Lieut., wrote letter to Miss N.J., went to city today. Feb. 13th In camp all day, drilled some in A.M., had some sport this evening. I'm thinking of home tonight. Feb. 14th In all day on duty, 6 hours, relieved at 6 P.M., nothing of importance transpired today, went to bed at the usual hour. Feb. 15th In camp all day, drilled some, would like to hear from home, everything up & coming tonight. Feb. 16th In camp as usual, done nothing today. Mustering Officer failed to come as was expected, very cold tonight. Feb. 17th In camp all day as usual, Rec'd one letter from Father, thinking of the past tonight, still cold. Feb. 18th Still in camp, wrote one letter to Father. 21st also the 11th Ind. Vol's passed through the city enroute for Indianapolis, moderating some tonight. Feb. 19th Remained in camp all day as usual, nothing of importance transpired, would like to see home & friends at home, still moderating some. Yours truly, J.A.H. Feb. 20th In camp today, went to city in P.M., had a great time, a portion of the 118th Ind. Vol's came to camp to stay all night. Feb. 21st In camp in A.M., went to the city in evening, met S.H. Samuel's at Millers, came to camp, returned at night, both of us went to church, heard Nebeker preach a good sermon. Feb. 22nd In camp as usual, my friend came out, returned in evening, went to citizen pass, drilled some, sit up with W. Aikman (William H. Aikman), write letter to Miss N.J., rec'd one from her. Feb. 23rd In camp, had visitors from Helt's Prairie, on guard in A.M., had a pleasant time & good dinner, rained in evening. Rec'd a present from Miss N.E.M. Feb. 24th In camp today, sit up all last night with Wm. Aikman, drilled some in A.M., (played ?) off of duty in P.M., would like to be at home tonight. Feb. 25th In camp all day, got out of drilling by sleeping, went to see my sick friend and comrade in P.M., he is very low tonight. Feb. 26th In camp as usual, sit up last night with Wm. Aikman, very sick, had my fortune told, am to be discharged in 20 months, done nothing today. Feb. 27th In camp in A.M., went to city in P.M., Wm. Aikman died at 5 this eve. Rec'd two letters, one from Miss N.J., one from Miss N.E. Mack, replied to the former. Feb. 28th In camp today, marched out with the last remaining & paid our friend & comrade, Wm. A. (William H. Aikman) the last tributes of Earth, religious service in camp tonight by Mer. Hamlin, wrote one letter to Miss N.E.M. Feb. 29th In camp all day on camp duty, 1st relief, bought pr. of boots of C. Lake (Corporal Josephus W. Lake ?), nothing worthy of note transpired in camp today. Farewell February. Nomore at present. J.A. Hiestand Feb. played, March 1st In camp in A.M., (Com.B. ?) in P.M., started to city on pass in eve, turned back at Depot, seen Co. A. 115th Ind. Vol's. March 2nd In camp, drilled three hours today, went to city in P.M., got one letter from Father, would like to be at home tonight. March 3rd In camp as usual, drilled three hours, had some sport while on drill throwing boys boots away & c. feeling some what sick tonight in consequence of bad cough. March 4th In camp today, our Com. on drill in A.M., I excused, went to city, also to picture gallery, got no pictures. Rec'd one letter from home. March 5th In camp all day, one of Capt. Morgan's men died today, had marching orders in P.M., order countermanded. March 6th In camp all day, Col. Thompson & Capt. Hyer mustering Office same to camp, also some of the city ladies visited us, went to Congregational Church to night. March 7th In camp today, mustered into U.S. Service by Capt. Hyer at 10 A.M., went to city in P.M., seen 31st boys, (O. ?) Sawyer & J. Wann (?) came to camp tonight. March 8th In camp this morning, orders to move, marched to Depot at 8 A.M., started to Indianapolis at 9, at Brezile (Brazil) at 10, at Greencastle at 11, arrived at Indianapolis at 1 P.M., marched out to Camp Carrington at 3 P.M. March 9th In camp today, 31st came in at 2 P.M. G.W. Yapp (George W. Yapp) & I went to city in eve, got some pictures, left negative for photos, returned, wrote one letter to Miss L.M.C. March 10th In camp all day, no duty, had a good time in camp with 31st boys, wrote two letters in eve, one to Miss S.P.K. also to Miss L.B. thinking of home. March 11th In camp as usual, on dress parade in P.M., went to theatre at night, returned to camp at midnight. March 12th In camp today, marched to city in A.M., drew arms at (?), returned in evening to the theatre splendid performance. March 13th In camp as usual, 42nd Ind. Vol's moved out. Company inspection also reading rules regulations and c. of War. March 14th In camp all day, very disagreeable. Orders to march to Greensburg, started at 8 P.M., arrived at 11 night, went into old boarding house, remained til morning. March 15th Marched out to camp of 123rd for breakfast, drew knapsacks & c. also one months pay, took supper at Miss House, went to concert tonight at C.H., wrote letter to Wm James, sent him $20.00. March 16th In camp boarding house again, had one picture taken today, ate breakfast this morning at Eyle (or Eagle) Hotel, battalion drill in P.M. Rec'd one letter from Miss N.E.M. March 17th In camp all day. Bat drill in P.M., sent picture to Father by Express, went to church tonight, good singing & c. reminded me of home. March 18th In camp in A.M. Regt. Left at 1 P.M., 25 car loads of us, arrived at Lawranceburg, Ind. at 5 P.M., took on board the steamer, Izzetta, at dark, started for Louisville, KY 1 A.M. March 19th On board this morning, passed Madison also Jeffersonville, Ind., nice towns, nice day, rather cold on the river, arrived at Louisville at 11 A.M., marched out to Camp Taylor barracks at 2 P.M., wrote one letter to Miss F.B. March 20th In camp all day. One Bat. drill in P.M., wrote two letters tonight, one to Miss N.E.M. also Miss S.T. March 21st In camp all day on duty, 1st relief, general inspection in P.M., fell some what lonely, would like to hear from home. March 22nd In camp all day, grand review in P.M., also dress parade in eve. Officers sashes presented to them by D.L. Chambers, wrote one letter to J.A. Hiestand tonight. March 23rd In camp, com. (company) drill in A.M. Bat'l in P.M. also dress parade in eve. Genl's (Generals) Hovey & Carrington paid us a visit. March 24th In camp on drill nearly all day. A.L.M. (Alonzo L. Mack) & I went to city in evening, two hours, seen nothing of importance there, returned to camp at sunset, would like to see the folks at home. March 25th In camp until noon. Orders to march to Nashville, Tenn., started from depot at 6 P.M., passed through one tunnel. March 26th Still on train this morning, passed several forts today, splendid bridge over Green River, stoped at Cane City, seen ten Rebels, passed over the Battle field (Bnel ?) & Buckner at Bowling Green, KY. March 27th Arrived at Nashville, Tenn. at 2 P.M., marched out near fort (Neyley?), went into camp on dress parade in P.M. Rec'd two letters from home. March 28th In camp all day, Com. (company)drill in A.M. Bat. In P.M. would like to hear from Home. March 29th In Camp all day, not much drilling today, went to the grave yard seen 12 corpses ready for buryel (burial), wrote one letter to Miss N.J., would like to hear from Home. March 30th In camp all day, com. (company) drill in A.M., Col. McQuiston takes com (command ?) 2nd Brigade. Rec'd 3 letters, one from Ind, one from father, one from Miss F.B., wrote one to B & Brother, sent $2.50 photos. March 31st In camp today. Bat'l (Battalion) drill in A.M. Com (company) drill in P.M., nothing of importance transpired today. April 1st In camp as usual, went to city cemetery in A.M., seen some splendid monuments, among them was one belonging to (blank space) many others very good. April 2nd In camp, com (company) drill in A.M. Inspection in P.M., went to city in evening time, failed to express clothing & c. returned at 8 P.M., Rec'd two letters Miss L.B. & J.A.H. April 3rd In camp. Orders to march countermanded, on camp duty, S.M. of 130th Ind. Vol's shot himself intentionally, would like to be at home tonight. April 4th In camp as usual, com (company) drill in P.M., 130th man died this morning, wrote one letter to Miss L.M.C., raining today. April 5th Packed up & moved out at 9 A.M. destined for Chattanooga, Tenn., passed Insane Asylumn (Asylum), halted, went into camp at 3 P.M. ten miles from Nashville. April 6th Com (company) drill in morning, struck tents at 9 A.M., halted, went into camp 3 miles from Lavern (LaVergne). Bat'l drill from 7 until 5 1/2 P.M. 85th boys came to camp, D. James, F. White, and others, marched 10 miles. April 7th Struck tents at 7 A.M., arrived at Stone River at 12 N, passed graves of the S.R. dead, also monument of Hagen's. Brig. halted for the night 10 miles from Murfreesborough (Murfreesboro). April 8th Struck tents at 9 A.M., passed ruins of locomotive, three men killed, rained some, very mudy (muddy) marching. April 9th Struck tents at 7 A.M., passed residence where C.L. (Vallandingham ?) was delivered up to Rebel authorities at 12 o'clock night passed several fine farms, went into camp at 3 P.M. 2 miles from Shelbyville. Cavalry train passed in eve. April 10th Struck tents at 8 A.M., passed some union farmers, arrived S. at 9, resumed march again at 10. Crossed Duck River on bridge, 300 Rebels went up (?), went into one tributary of D. (Duck) River, hilly country, marched 10 miles. April 11th Struck tents at 7 A.M., passed over bad hills & swamps, arrived at Talahoma (Tullahoma) at 12 N, went into camp in R. Bottom, dress parade & c. in eve, marched 8 m's (miles) today. April 12th Struck tents at 7 A.M., crossed Elk river at 1 P.M., passed stockades & c., went into camp at 3 P.M. 3 m's (miles) from Decker (Decherd?) Station, dress parade in eve. April 13th Struck tents at 7., passed through Decker at 9, at Cowen (Cowan) at 12 N, drew rations, resumed march at 3 P.M., marched one mile, went into camp at foot of mountains, dress parade & c. in even, marched 8 m's (miles). April 14th Struck tents at 6 1/2 A.M., started over Cumberland M's (mountains), passed over tunnel, halted at (Tantelion ?), cars off track & c. went into camp two miles from said station, dress parade in eve., came 12 m's (miles). April 15th Struck tents at 8, passed some magnificent peaks near Anderson Station, crossed the Alabama & Tenn. Line at 11 A.M., went into camp at 4 P.M., dress parade at 5, went into cave at night, many curious things to be seen there. April 16th Struck tents at the usual hour of 7 A.M., passed through Stevenson at 11 A.M., went into camp 5 m's (miles) from town, marched 10 m's (miles) today, seen 86 dead horses & mules on the road, dress parade in eve. April 17th Struck tents at 7 A.M., arrived at Bridgeport at 9 1/2, plenty of yanks, strong fortifications & c. here, got some mail, one letter from Miss S.P.K. also Miss N.E.M. also photo, went into camp on the Iland (island?), Cav'l (cavalry) passed through. April 18th Struck tents at the usual hour, passed through station at 12 N (noon), came to Tenn. River, high mountains & c., passed over one corner of G.A. (Georgia), went into camp in Whiteside Valley, high trees, work & c., marched 15 miles today, some pretty country here. April 19th Stuck tents at 7 A.M., felt some what sick this, got medicine, threw it in the fire. G.W. Yapp came to us, traveled all day on R.R., took dinner with 129th Ills. Boys, went into camp at the fort, Lookout Mountain in valley. April 20th Struck tents at 7 A.M., passed through Chattanooga, went into camp near there at 3 P.M., seen some artillery shooting & c., wrote one letter to father, dress parade in eve, marched 6 m's (miles). April 21st Struck tents at 7 A.M., crossed Mission Ridge also Chickemagna, (Chickamauga), R & Battle field, halted 3 m's (miles) from Station for dinner, went into camp at Olthewa (Ooltewah) S., seen 31st boys, no parade this eve, passed over some beautiful country today. April 22nd Struck tents at 7 A.M., passed camp of 25th & 35th Ill's boys, seen some of them, went into camp at 2 P.M. on R.R., on rear guard today, dress parade & c. in eve. April 23rd Struck tents at 6 A.M., passed camp at 8, arrived at Cleveland 8 1/2, halted & drew rations, went into camp at 4 P.M., fine country & c. here. April 24th Struck tents at 7 A.M., rained some, marched to town (Charleston - as written) went into camp at 10 A.M., wrote one letter to Miss L.B., Rec'd one from home, dress parade in eve. J.A. Hiestand. April 25th In camp, Charleston, built quarters in A.M., Bat'l drill & dress parade in P.M., wrote letter to Sister Sarah, would like to be at home tonight. April 26th In camp all day, on fatigue duty, Reg't on Bat'l, also Com (company) drill, dress parade in eve. April 27th In camp all day, fixed up camp & c. in A.M., Bat'l drill in P.M., dress parade in eve, wrote one letter to father, got no mail today. April 28th In camp today, Com (company) drill in A.M., Bat'l in P.M., dress parade in eve, Rec'd one letter from home. April 29th In camp today, wrote one letter to Miss F.B., Com (company) drill in A.M., Bat'l drill in P.M., dress parade in eve, also review. Lieut. Col. drunk as usual. April 30th In camp all day, no drill, review, inspection & c, also regimental muster in P.M., got one letter from home, G.W. Yapp (George W. Yapp), C.S. Davis (Cornelius S. Davis) & others started to Knoxville. May 1st In camp in A.M., Wm. Robinson & I took a walk, visited fort, troops came in, Com (company) inspection in A.M., dress parade in eve. May 2nd Co. C. on picket duty, wrote letter to Miss S.P.K., Ulysis Williams (Ulysses Williamson?) shot himself (accidental - as written) in P.M. May 3rd Relieved of duty, started to camp at 3 A.m., struck tents at 6, took up line of march at 8, marched to Cleveland, went into camp at 3 P.M., dress parade at 5, marched 13 miles today. May 4th Struck tents at 5 A.M., marched toward Dalton (GA), went into camp at 9 A.M., wrote one letter to Sister Em at Danville (IL), drew rations, dress parade at 4 P.M., m (marched) 5 m's (miles). May 5th Struck tents at 7 A.M., left Reg't forming, traveled on R.R., went into camp, Lieut. Abbot (Joseph Abbot) 16 m's (miles) from Dalton. May 6th Struck tents at 8 A.M., joined Reg't at 9, lay in camp all day, wrote letter to Father, dress parade in eve, very poor country in this part of Tenn. May 7th Struck tents at daybreak. Col made a few remarks in A.M., some cannoneding (cannonading) in front, went into camp at dark. May 8th Fell into line at an early hour. Gen'l Hovey give us some advice at 9, at 10 telegram was read to us of the success of Gen'l Grant, wrote letter to Sister Sarah, seen F.H. 63rd some fighting in front, in line of Battle at 7 P.M. May 9th All quiet this morning, an expected engagement today; marched in line down valley in P.M., moved to the left in eve; on hill moved forward in line at SunSet, some skirmishing in front at dark. Volunteered to go on skirmish line, no one hurt, returned Reg't lay in line until May 10th 5 A.M. skirmishing lively, all quiet at 8 except occasional cannon shots, moved to the rear at 12 N., stacked arms, went into camp at 5 P.M. on picket, wrote letter father, relieved at sunset, rained hard this eve. May 11th In camp this morn. Called into line at 12 N (noon), Capt. Washburn (John Q. Washburn?) came in. In A.M., an attempted raid by R. Cavalry, repulsed, went into camp with out moving out, all quiet again. May 12th Struck tents, moved at 7 this morning, all quiet at this time, passed through Hopkinsville at 10 A.M., halted at noon, stacked arms, supply, also ordinance train passed, cannonading on left all day. May 13th Struck tents at 6 1/2 A.M. traveled over nice country today. Stacked arms, at entrance of snake Gap for dinner reported taking of Dalton, Reb's skedadled, wagon train passed, went into camp at sunset in valley, m (marched) 12 m's (miles). May 14th Struck tents at 9 A.M., moved two miles, reported capture of Gen'l (blank space), 1000 troops, 14 pieces of artillery, some fighting in front. J.A. Hiestand Separate note: J.A.H. wrote in margin- lay in line all night of 14th & 13th, terrific fighting in evening of the 14th. May 15th In line at an early hour, firing began at day break. Battle raging fearfully at 7 1/2 A.M. Rebel Battery (arrived ?) at 9 relieved moved to the left. Reb's charged at 4 P.M., replaced by the 121st supported by the 123rd, charged again at 5 with no better success, retreated in disorder we moved & took position in line of the 129th in a swamp (?), built works at night. May 16th Called in line at 3 A.M., remained until 10, moved and stacked arms on the battlefield, ate dinner, took a view of dead Reb's, took up line of march at 12 1/2 P.M., crossed Koosa (Coosa) River (GA), in P.M. went into camp sunset, marched 6 miles, raining some. May 17th Struck tents at 6 1/2 A.M., moved 3 miles in rain, halted, stacked arms, drew rations, moved again at 2 P.M., crossed tributary of Koosa (Coosa) River at 4, went into camp late in evening, 10 o'clock night, marched hard, traveled 13 miles today, fine country through here, camped in peach orchard. May 18th Struck tents at 8 A.M., moved slowly on until 3 P.M., went into camp in pleasant place, good day & country for foraging & c. May 19th Struck tents at an early hour, halted at 11 A.M. near fine residence, Schofield's Head Quarters, moved again at 3 P.M., marched hard until 9 P.M., skirmishing in front lively. May 20th Struck tents at 8 1/2 A.M., moved 1 mile came to Cassville (GA), moved again at 10 1/2, halted at depot, 500 Reb's captured today, moved at 3 P.M., went into camp at dark, reported burning of bridges today by Reb's, Rec'd 1 letter from Miss N.E.M. May 21st In camp near Cassville in large wheatfield some cannonading in front, wrote one letter home, also to Miss N.E.M. May 22nd In camp all day, very warm, Yapp (George W. Yapp), Davis (Cornelius S. Davis) & others came to see us, dress parade at 6 P.M., feeling some what sick. May 23rd Marched at 7 1/2 A.M., halted at 7 P.M. on bank of the Etlewa (Etowah) River, went into camp, went to the residence of Col. Stiles of 4th G.A. Vol's C.S.A. (Confederate States Army). May 24th Struck tents at 9 A.M., passed several fine farms, halted 1/2 hour at river, crossed on pontoons near burned bridge, reported burning of wagon train, 80 wagons by Wheelers Cav'ly (calvary) near Kingston, went into camp at 8 P.M., rained hard, m (marched) 12 m's (miles) today. May 25th Struck tents at 9 A.M., marched until 12, halted, wagon train passed heavy firing in front at 5 1/2 & 6 P.M., moved to brow of hill, went into camp at dark, raining hard, m (marched) 6 m's (miles) today. May 26th In camp all day, under marching orders. Cav'ly (calvary) and wagon train passing all evening. G.W. Yapp (George W. Yapp) returned to camp, captured at K (Knoxville) but escaped. May 24th (This was written in between May 26th and 27th entries and dated May 24th) All quiet on front today. May 27th In camp until 1 P.M., moved one mile to the rear, relieved 14th KY, moved into work's. I'm thinking of those I love who yet remain at home, would like to hear from them. May 28th In camp all day, called into line at 3 A.M., heavy fighting on the right, prisoners passed in P.M. G.W.Y.(G.W. Yapp) and myself went foraging, got nothing. May 29th Called into line at 1 o'clock A.M., fighting began in front at day break, 129th Reg't moved out (train guards - as written) for Kingston at 3 P.M., went on picket at 12 N (noon), relieved at 9 P.M., 14th corps went into camp here, all quiet at present. May 30th Struck tents at 8 A.M., moved 5 m's (miles) toward the front, halted, drew rations, moved again at 5 P.M., 3 m's (miles), halted, stacked arms, rested. Skirmishing in front, moved again to the left, halted, stacked arms in line of battle, seen 31st boys here, remained until 12 at night, moved 1 mile, remained in line until May 31st 5 A.M. Built works until 9, relieved, heavy firing in front. Co. C. ordered on skirmline at 5 P.M., watched for the johnies all night, shot a few times, hurt no one I presume, would like to have one / 2 letters to read to night. 2/3 of them from home, could interest myself much better than I am at present. Farewell pleasant May. J.A. Hiestand. June 1st Still on picket, relieved at 8 A.M. Rec'd two letters one from Wm. James, one from Miss N. J., joined the Reg't at 8 1/2, wrote letter to Miss N. J., Rec'd one in P.M. from Miss F.B., moved out in open field, returned at dark, skirmishing briskly. June 2nd Drew rations at an early hour, moved to the rear at 8 A.M. in woods, stacked arms, moved again at 11 to the left, heavy storm passed over, hailed some at 5 P.M., heavy skirmishing in front, built works, rec'd three letters one from Sister Em (Harriet Emily Hiestand), one from Misses L. B. & S. P. K. June 3rd Ready to move at 7 A.M., heavy skirmishing in front, moved at 12 N. to the left, light S. (skirmishing) at two P.M., rained incessantly, moved onto the Marietta road at 5 P.M., built works at 5 1/2 P.M. June 4th Co. C. went on S. (skirmishing) line at 7 1/2, a brisk fire kept up all day, drew rations, rained all day, very disagreeable, this is soldiering in reality. June 5th Rained all night, took one prisoner, relieved at 8 A.M., joined Reg't at the works, light S (skirmishing) in front today, rested all day. 85th boys came over to see us, would like to hear from home, hope to hear soon. June 6th In camp all day, Lieut. Col. Cullen resigned, 125th Ills passed. Jasper Mitchell came to camp, some heavy S. (skirmishing) in last night & during P.M. on the right. Rebels reported retreating, orders of Gen'l Sherman read. June 7th Ready to move at 6 A.M., marched at 10, 3 m's (miles), stacked arms at 12 N. (noon), went into camp, reported offers of peace by the Rebel Government. June 8th Drew rations at an early hour, roll call at 2 P.M., Lieut. Col. started home at 10 A.M. drew two day's rations at 6 P.M., roll call at 8, all quiet. June 9th In camp all day, fixed up camp some. Gen'l Hovey resigned, started home. Preaching in camp at 6 P.M. by Rev. (blank space), took sick at dark, all quiet. June 10th Ready to move at 6 P.M., marching today played pitched tents in evening. On corps guard all night, all quiet here, some fighting in front, rained. June 11th In camp all day, expected to move, did not, feeling some what sick this eve, would rather be at home tonight then here, mail at 9 P.M., raining hard. June 12th In camp all day, Co. C. on picket duty, excused (sickness - as written), some cannonading in front in P.M., rained almost incessantly today, would like to be at home, rather hard soldiering for sick. June 13th Reg't in camp all day, went to the Co. on picket line in P.M., rained some in A.M. S (skirmishing) in front all day, drew rations at dark, hope to hear from home soon, good prospect of peace soon. June 14th Struck tents & moved at 7 A.M. 1 mile, went into camp. Reg't train guard, rec'd one paper from father, would like to get letter from him, some cannonading, heavy S. (skirmishing) in front, pleasant day. June 15th In camp today, heavy cannonading in front, wrote one letter to Sister Sarah (Sarah Ann Hiestand), also one to James Rodman (note: Rodman mother's maiden name), moved 2 m's (miles) late in P.M. June 16th In camp until 5 P.M., relieved by the 88th Ind., moved & joined the Brigade, drew rations, rec'd one letter from father, also one from Miss N.E.M., some rebels deserting coming into our lines. June 17th Struck tents, moved in line of battle at 9 A.M. over Reb works, made one charge at 9 1/2, drove the enemy, made another at 11. Reb retreated in disorder, moved to the rear at 12 N (noon), moved again at 5 P.M., went into camp on battle ground at dark. June 18th In camp all day, heavy firing in front, constant roar of artillery from early dawn until night fall, in camp near Kershaw mountain, ten m's (miles) from river, rained some all day. June 19th Struck tents & moved at 10 A.M. 1/2 mile, halted, stacked arms, raining like fury, drew rations, troops and train passed, moved at 6 P.M. 4 miles, crossed branch, had a good time, went into camp at 10 at night, very hard marching. June 20th In camp all day, S. (skirmishing) lightly in A.M., hard fighting on the left at 5 & 6 P.M., constant roar of artillery & musketing at Kenesaw (Kennesaw, GA) near night fall, hard rain in evening, rec'd one paper from father. June 21st In camp all day, heavy S. (skirmishing), considerable cannonading in P.M., some what terrific near night, rained some today, would like to hear from home also from Miss S.M.C. June 22nd Struck tents & moved to the right at 10 A.M., halted at 2 P.M., built works, 14th KY advanced to the front. Reb's charged, 14th retreated to the rear, johnies came to edge of woods, but retreated & run like the dickens, all quiet at night fall, great many brave boys fell today. June 23rd Co. C. went onto S (skirmish) line at day break, advanced at 7 A.M., nothing worthy of note transpired today except johnie came near giving me a furlough & discharge with his old (fuse ?) of a gun, expecting heavy fight soon, hard fighting by Old Hooker on the left in P.M., drew rations, got one letter from Sister Sarah (Sarah Ann Hiestand), nomore at present. J. A. Hiestand. June 24th In camp all day. 85th boys D. James among the number came to see us. Light S. (skirmishing) mostly sharp shooting all day, wrote letter Sister Sarah, new Brig'd Com. Col. Swain (?) came to see us, fine looking fellow. June 25th In camp until 6 P.M., struck tents, pitched & struck tents & moved at 7 to the front line of works. S (skirmishing) lively in P (P.M.) S's (skirmishes?) advanced & c. June 26th In camp all day. Called into line at 12 N. (noon), did not move until 7 P.M., moved near the front line, some cannonading in P.M., wrote one letter today to Miss N.E.M. Boys gay and lively this eve. June 27th Moved & relieved the 3rd & 6th Tenn. on front line at 8 A.M. S. (Skirmish) line advanced at 9, hard fighting until 12 N. (noon). R. Roger's (Robert B. Rogers) killed, Sergeant S. E. Hunt (Samuel E. Hunt), Corp'l E. Sherman, G.W. Yapp (George W. Yapp), Wm (William) Underwood & J. Hasty (John Hasty) badly wounded, some S. (skirmishing) in P.M. June 28th Relieved in A.M., moved to the rear, went into camp, Rec'd two (letters) also two papers from home, light S's (skirmishes) all day, on the line once in A.M., also in P.M., wrote letter to father, called into line at 10 P.M., false alarm. June 29th In camp until dark, moved on the front line relieved 129th, all quiet this morning, some sharp shooting in P.M. Rec'd two letters, one from Sister Sarah also Miss N. J., replied to the latter immediately, all quiet tonight. June 30th Remained in the entrenchments all day, mustered in P.M., one man of Co. A. killed glancing shot, 85th boys came over to see us. Nomore of June this year. July 1st Note written in side line: This day is long to be remembered, the (warriest?) I ever seen. Relieved at 2 A.M., moved to the first line of works in rear, halted, moved again at 4 1/2, marched one mile, halted, got breakfast, moved 4 miles, Co. C. went on S. (skirmish) line at 11. Sarg't. D.L. Chambers (David L. Chambers) killed in first charge. Charged & drove the enemy 5 m's (miles), we all played or nearly so, relieved in P.M., joined Brig'd, made one charge over field at sunset. Reg't moved to the rear at dark. I volunteered to go on picket, relieved at 10, returned to camp. July 2nd In camp all day, drew rations at an early hour, all quiet today. Wrote letter to Wm James, very pleasant, all nature seems to be rejoicing, yet the great struggle between right & wrong goes on. When will it end! July 3rd In camp until 4 P.M., moved to the front 1/2 mile, halted, stacked arms, seen several wounded men brought in, new troops moving to the front. Marietta, G.A. taken, returned went into camp at 6 1/2 P.M., all quiet again tonight, 26th went into camp near us. July 4th In camp until 2 P.M., moved 2 1/2 miles, halted at 4, built works, some sharp S. (shooting) in front in eve. Reb's retreated, moved forward at dark 1/2 mile, built works again, some cannonading in P.M. July 5th In camp in A.M., moved 1 mile to the rear, drew 3 day's rations, moved 2 mile farther at 4 P.M., went into camp, got mail, 1 paper also letter. Would like to hear from home & friends. July 6th Moved 6 m's (miles) to Rock Station, went into camp 7 miles south of Marietta, splendid (breast ?) works & c. 200 prisoners passed, two trains of cars came down to the station. July 7th In camp all day, some cannonading in front, inspection of troops in P.M., nothing else of importance transpired today. July 8th Moved at sunrise to the left 5 m's (miles), came up with pontoon train at 10, at 1 P.M. marched to the river, supported battery, halted, stacked arms. Reb's shelled us some, captured their battery in evening, went into camp at sunset. July 9th In camp all day & went bathing in Chatachoochie (Chattahoochee) River in P.M., light skirmishing on the right in P.M., rec'd letter from also wrote one to father news & letter paper for G.W.Y (George W. Yapp). July 10th In camp all day, all quiet in front, rec'd one paper for G.W.Y. (George W. Yapp) containing letter paper, dashing rain in evening. July 11th In camp until 3 P.M., struck tents, moved across the river, went into camp in works on ridge, rec'd one letter from Sarah, also letter paper, went over to see 31st boys. July 12th In camp all day, heavy police duty, 4th Corps moved out in front, got some mail, one paper from father, letter for G.W.Y. (George W. Yapp), dress parade at 3 P.M., heavy orders & c. July 13th Reg't in camp all day, 99 men went to Marietta, train guard worked on bridge across river. Reg't drew clothing at night, sold 1 watch to T. D. Shaw (Thomas D. Shaw) $7.00, would like to hear from home. July 14th Struck tents & moved at 8 A.M. to the front 2 miles, seen M. Albridge of the 73rd Ill's, went into camp at 12 N (noon) on high hill near river, wrote one letter to R.M. Hayman, also Mollie Yapp. J.A. Hiestand. July 15th In camp all day, worked hard, (firing ?) bunk, drew rations in A.M., Co. inspection at 5 1/2 P.M., all quiet in front. July 16th In camp all day, Reg'tal inspection at 9 A.M., no passed, dress parade at 6 P.M., rec'd one paper from home, one letter for G.W.Y. (George W. Yapp), boys came in from Marietta at 10 night. July 17th Drew rations at an early hour, struck tents & moved at 8 A.M. to the front & left, halted & rested at noon, moved again late in P.M., went into camp at 5 P.M., on picket duty, rec'd one letter from I. Fisher for G.W.Y (George W. Yapp). July 18th Moved at 7 1/2 A.M., halted at 12 N (noon), moved again at 3 1/2 P.M., passed new R.R., went into camp at 6 1/2 PM, rec'd three letters from home, one from Miss N.E.M., marched 8 m's (miles) today. July 19th Moved at 6 A.M., marched 3 miles, came up in line, drove the Reb's back 3 m's (miles), took possession of Decatur, D Kalb (De Kalb) Co., G.A. at 2 P.M., destroyed R.R., telegraph, & c., moved to west side of town at 4, built work's, moved to the rear & went into camp at 8 o'clock night. July 20th Moved at 6 A.M. 1 1/2 m's (miles), formed in line at 5 1/2 P.M., unslung knapsacks, prepared to charge, moved out toward Reb works at sunset, halted at dark, moved to the rear, built works until mid night, drew rations, hard fighting all day. July 21st In camp all day worked until noon, wrote one letter to Miss N.E.M. also one to Mer I. Fedher in P.M., light S. (skirmishing), also cannonading today, hard rain in eve. July 22nd Moved to the front one mile at day break, built works in sight of the City of Atlanta on the left. Enemy shelled us some in A.M., made desperate charge on our left in P.M. but repulsed with heavy loss, heavy artillery firing in P.M., Gen'l McPherson killed at 3 P.M. on our left. July 23rd In camp until 3 P.M., moved to the right, joined the 4th Corps, 3 Div., Gen'l Cox moved to the left, some S. (skirmishing) all day, also come cannonading, wrote letter to father also to Miss L.B. July 24th In camp all day, seen R. Waterman, rec'd one letter from Miss N.J., 2 for G.W.Y. (George W. Yapp), light S.(skirmishing) & cannonading today. July 25th In camp all day, rec'd one letter for G.W.Y. (George W. Yapp), (page torn) paper, wrote one letter to Miss N.J., heavy S. (skirmishing), also cannonading during the day. July 26th In camp all day, wrote letter for N.E.T. (Nathaniel E. Thompson), drew rations, hard fight on the left at night, heavy S. (skirmishing) in front during the day. July 27th In camp all day, wrote one letter to Wesley R., Silver (?), Rec'd two, one from father & Sister S. (Sarah), wish this campaign would play out. July 28th In camp all day, heavy cannonading at 2 P.M., S. (skirmish) line advanced, hard fighting on the right, heavy loss on both sides, half sick tonight. July 29th In camp all day, drew rations, rec'd one letter from father, one from Sarah, feeling very sick tonight, dread the future. July 30th In camp all day, lay in tent excused from duty, got news of G.W.Y.'s (George W. Yapp) death at Knoxville, Tenn. July 24th, 1864, very sick tonight, would like to be at home. July 31st Went to the field hospital at 9 A.M., two miles from Reg't., very sick, would rather be at home, nomore at present. J.A.H. August 1st In hospital until noon, ordered to move at 4 this A.M., but did not, started to Marietta at noon in wagon, halted, went into camp at the river. Aug. 2nd Train moved out at 9 A.M., traveled over 12 m's (miles) of rough roads, (at ?) arrived at this place at 3 1/2 P.M., wish it was not me. Aug. 3rd In hospital all day, wrote one letter to father, very lonesome place this. Aug. 4th In hospital all day, quite unwell, feel somewhat lonely tonight. Aug. 5th Yes! All day have I remained here in this miserable place, true! I have plenty of company, but misery loves company as well as every thing else, nothing here to interest me. Aug. 6th Still laying in this place the hospital, heavy cannonading in direction of the front, hard rain due near night. Aug. 7th Still at home, an unpleasant one it is too, would like to be with the Reg't or at least hear from the boys. Aug. 8th In hospital all day, every thing presents rather a lonely appearance in these parts, some excitement in regard to the apprehension of two spies in town. Nomore at present. J.A. Hiestand. Aug. 9th In hospital as usual, every thing as lonely as ever, would rather be in front, get well as soon, wrote one letter Father. Aug. 10th Still in this miserable place. 500 sick and wounded cam in on the train from the front, want to hear from home. Aug. 11th In hospital all day, went into Ward 18, Sec 2nd as Chief Nurse, hard work but feel some what better. Aug. 12th In hospital as usual, sick & wounded came in from the front, assisted in unloading them also in loading sick for the rear. Aug. 13th In hospital all day, feeling rather bad today, would like to hear from home, nothing worthy of note transpired today. Aug. 14th In hospital all day, quite a number of soldiers sent to the rear, Rec'd 3 letters, one from father two from Sarah & Mollie Yapp. Aug. 15th In hospital as usual, rec'd two letters one from father and from sister Em, nothing else of importance transpired today. Aug. 16th In hospital all day. Soldiers came in from the front, two of Co. C. Aug. 17th In hospital as usual, Rec'd $7.00 for watch also $2.00 for G.W. Yapp of T.D.S., more soldiers came in from the front today. Aug. 18th In hospital in A.M., went to town in P.M., seen some pretty women, nice town & C. in former times, prepared paper & envelopes. Aug. 19th In hospital as usual, went to town, wrote letter to C. S. Davis (Cornelius S. Davis), would like to get some mail, nothing else today. Aug. 20th Still in hospital, wrote letter A. L. Mack (Alonzo L. Mack), also one to Sister Em. Seen Capt. Morgan of the 124th just from home. Aug. 21st In hospital in A.M., went to city in P.M., Wm. Rubin & myself were arrested, sent to the C.H., released by the provost, M., hard rain in eve. Aug. 22nd In hospital all day, nothing of importance transpired today, would like to hear from home, lonesome here. Aug. 23rd In hospital as usual, went to town in P.M., seen J.R. Heartman of 12th Ills Vol's. Aug. 24th Still in my military home. Rec'd one letter from Sister Sarah, wrote one to her, would like to be with boys. Aug. 25th In hospital all day, soldiers came in from the front, would like to hear from home. Aug. 26th In hospital as usual. Rec'd one letter from Sister Sarah. Soldiers came in from the front, mail to be stoped (stopped) ten day. Aug. 27th In hospital in A.M., went to town in P.M., seen E.P. Conely, 6th Ind. Cav'lry started for Nashville, Tenn, would like to get some mail. Aug. 28th In hospital as usual, wrote one letter to father, would like to hear from him. Aug. 29th Still in my hospital home. Rec'd one letter from Sister Sarah, would like to see some of the Co. C. just from the front. Aug. 30th In hospital as usual. Rec'd two letters, one from father and one from Sister Em, intend writing one to Miss F.B., Ind. Aug. 31st In hospital as usual, all day read Novel, Smiles of the Osage, nothing of importance transpired today. This ends one of the unhappiest months of my soldiering. J.A. Hiestand. Sept. 1st In hospital today, no mail today, feel some what vexed, but still live in hopes, wrote letter to Sister Sarah, went to town in P.M. Sept. 2nd In hospital as usual, went to town in P.M., news of the capture of Atlanta this morning, wrote letter to father. Sept. 3rd In hospital as usual, went to town in P.M., wrote letter to Miss N. J., nothing worthy of note transpired today. Sept. 4th In hospital as usual, preaching a number of times during the day went to town with J.H. Bogart in P.M., nice residences & c. in suburbs. Sept. 5th In my home again in A. M., went to town in P.M., seen nothing to interest me. Sept. 6th In hospital as usual, went to town in P.M., seen 4th Iowa & 27th Ind. going home. Sept. 7th In hospital all day, reading Rebel acct of siege of Vicksburg. Many separate reports in regard to going home to vote. Sept. 8th In hospital in A.M., went to town in P.M., forage train captured today, wrote one letter to C. S. Davis (Cornelius S. Davis). Sept. 9th In hospital in A.M., went to town in P.M., rather a poor place for loafing, would rather be in Terre Haute, wrote one letter to sister Sarah, would like to hear from home. J.A. Hiestand. Sept. 10th In hospital as usual, took charge of Ward 17, rather more nursing than I like. everything has taken a change of late, went I at home time would pass more pleasantly. Note in margin: wrote letter to K. E., F.K. Sept. 11th In hospital in A.M., J.H. Bogert & myself went up on Kenesaw M (Kennesaw mountain) in P.M., had fine view of the surrounding country. Altoone pass in the West, Atlanta in the East & south, returned in eve, wrote letter to Miss S.P.K. Sept. 12th In hospital this morning, called for discharge, Granted & rec'd in A.M., went to town at night in Co. with J.H.B. & N.E.T., heard Kenesaw ministrel, good show & c. Sept. 13th Marched to town at 7 1/2 A.M., returned found Old Man dead (Compston (?) 14th Ills, Cav'l - as written) died at 8, returned to town at 10, started for front at 4 P.M. on train, arrived at dark, went to S. home. Sept. 14th Atlanta, 9 A.M. had nice view of city this morn, badly destroyed by shell, 123rd Ind. came in at 9 1/2, remained until 3 P.M., started to camp at Decatur, arrived at sunset, very tired. Sept. 15th In camp Decatur, GA, policed new camping ground on opposite side of R.R. in pine grove, moved in P.M., went to Field Hospital in eve to see C. S. D. (Cornelius S. Davis) & others. Sept. 16th In camp in A.M., worked on Bridge in P.M., went to town in evening. Lieut. Col. Walker started home on leave of absence. Sept. 17th In camp, Co. (company) drill in A.M., one hour, policed camp, dress parade & c. in evening, mail came in no letter for me. Sept. 18th In camp, went to town in A.M., worked on ditches, rained in P.M. Sept. 19th In camp, Co. (company) drill 1 hour in A.M., went to town in P.M. D.P. (dress parade) in evening, went to 117th (or 107th) Ills. night. Sept. 20th In camp, Co. (company) drill in A.M., Batt'l in P.M., no D.P. (dress parade). Rec'd one letter from Sister Sarah wrote one to her & father. Sept. 21st In camp, went on picket at 8 A.M., came to camp in P.M. Rec'd two letters, one from Sister Sarah, one from Em, news Sheridans victory (?) Sept. 22nd Relieved at 10 A.M., Reg't Baggage came up. Rec'd two letters, one from Sister Sarah, one from Aunt Em Hayman, no D.P. (dress parade) this evening. Sept. 23rd In camp, Co. (company) drill in A.M. signed payrolls, rained hard, no D.P. (dress parade) this eve. Sept. 24th Started to Marietta at 9 A.M. on detached duty, arrived at Atlanta at 11 1/2, failed to get pass from Provost M., went to 85th in P.M., seen George Jones also James Bright. Sept. 25th Started to Decatur camp at 7 1/2 A.M., stoped (stopped) with 31st boys, remained until 12 N (noon), started to camp arrived at 2 P.M. Sept. 26th In camp in A.M., Co. (company) drill 2 hours in A.M. Batt'l drill 2 hours in P.M. D.P. (dress parade) in Eve. Sept. 27th In camp drilling as usual today. D.P. (dress parade) in evening, no mail today. Sept. 28th In camp as usual, Co. (company) drill in A.M. also P.M., D.P. (dress parade) as usual. Sept. 29th In camp, drill as usual. Rec'd one letter from Wm. James, replied immediately. D.P. (dress parade) in evening. Sept. 30th In camp as usual, drill Co. (company) in A.M. Batt'l in P.M., no D.P. (dress parade) no mail. Why is it that I cannot hear from home only two or three letters during this month, would like to hear once more. Oct. 1st Started to Marietta GA at 8 A.M. on detached duty, halted at the river for dinner, arrived at Marrietta at 8 P.M., hard rain at night. Oct. 2nd In town all day considerable excitement. Reb's about to come in forager's captured also train of cars at Big Shanty. Rec'd one letter from J. M. (Warner ?) at hospital. Oct. 3rd In town until 1 P.M., shoved out for Decatur, got to the river at dark, went into camp. Corps guard 1st Relief, hard rain tonight. Bridges gone, rather unpleasant. Oct. 4th Started at an early hour, roads in bad condition, arrived at Atlanta at 1 P.M., drew rations and about faced, and moved again toward Marrietta. 5 P.M. went into camp 2 miles from city, guarding train. Oct. 5th Started out at an early hour, detained at the river, went into camp near town at 10 P.M., very disagreeable time & c., going home to vote played out all on acc't of Old Mer Hovel. Nomore at present. J.A. Hiestand. Oct. 6th Daybreak raining hard, train moving out, got breakfast at private house, eat there before, passed on to the hospital seen J. Cardwell (James E. Cardwell) and others, moved on at 10 A.M., some fighting on the left, went into camp at sunset, hard marching today. Oct. 7th Train moved early, came up with the Div. at 9 A.M., went to the Reg't, drew rations, found the boy's all well, two missing, some fighting on left, some prisoners taken. Oct. 8th Remained in camp until 4 P.M., started for Altoona Station, arrived at 9, traveled ten miles, getting some what winterish, like to hear from home. Oct. 9th In camp all day, went to town in A.M., seen quite a number of dead & wounded Rebels, hard sight. Oct. 10th Relieved, returned to the Reg't, moved out at 8 A.M., crossed Eltewa River (Etowah) near noon, passed through Cartersville (GA) also Cass Station, went into camp at Cassville at dark. Oct. 11th Struck tents & moved at 6 A.M., passed through Kingston (GA), went into camp 3 m's (miles) from town. Mail came in at 11 P.M. Rec'd two letters one from Sister Sarah, also one from Miss N.J., in camp on the Etewa (Etowah) R. (river). Oct. 12th Reg't detached as train guard, moved at 10 A.M., halted for supper 5 m's (miles) from Rome (GA), moved again at 6 1/2 P.M., went into camp 1 1/4 m's (miles) from Rome at 9 1/2 o'clock. Oct. 13th Joined the Brigade at 4 A.M., got breakfast & moved again at 6, passed through town, came up with the johnies 3 m's (miles) from town, drove them 4 m's (miles), halted for dinner, returned to town in P.M., very tired, Rec'd one letter from father. Oct. 14th Struck tents & moved at 6 A.M., halted 3 m's (miles) from town for dinner, moved again at 2 1/2 P.M., went into camp at dark. Oct. 15th Resumed our line of march at 6 A.M., passed through Calhoun (GA) at 11, halted near town for dinner, passed through & went into camp near Resaca (GA), marched very hard today. Oct. 16th Struck tents & moved at 7 A.M., passed through snake gap, found timber fallen across the road by Reb's, went into camp at dark near entrance of gap. Oct. 17th Remained in camp all day, wrote one letter to Miss N.J., Wm Samuels & Hobert came to camp at night. Oct. 18th Moved at 7 1/2 A.M., started in southern direction, marched 13 m's (miles), halted for dinner, passed through Taylor's Gap, went into camp at dark. Oct. 19th Struck tents & moved at 8 1/2 A.M., marched hard all day. Crossed river & went into camp at sunset, drew rations, nomail. Oct. 20th Moved at an early hour, crossed Georgia & Alabama line at 9 A.M. went into camp near Galesville (Gaylesville), Ala. on Chatooga (Chattooga) River. Oct. 21st In camp near town, good country for foraging & c., on sick list today. Oct. 22nd In camp all day wrote one letter to father, drew rations in P.M., great place for pumkins this, would like to hear from home. Oct. 23rd In camp all day. Major Robins started home on leave, nothing of (scratched out) transpired today. Oct. 24th Went foraging today, went 6 m's (miles) up the Koosa (Coosa) R. (river), returned in P.M. Reg't moved to Cedar Bluff (AL) in A.M., distance 4 m's (miles), arrived at camp at dark. Oct. 25th In camp all day. Rec'd mail at 11 P.M., one letter from Wes Randolph, nothing from home. Oct. 26th In camp as usual, C.S.Davis (Cornelius S. Davis) & other returned to the Co., wrote one letter to Sister Sarah. Oct. 27th In camp all day, very dry as usual, no sport of any kind. Rec'd two letters, one from Sister Sarah also Plain Dealer, one letter from J.A.H. Oct. 28th In camp all day, wrote one letter to Miss N.E.M., purchased an watch of Henry Hollingsworth $15.00, ready to move at 3 P.M., moved across River one mile, went into camp at 8 1/2 at night, would like to hear from home. Oct. 29th Struck tents & moved at 6 A.M., wagon train passed, at 12 N (noon) halted for dinner, started out on Rome road, went into camp at dark. Marched 16 m's (miles) Oct. 30th Moved at an early hour. Lieut. Allen (Thomas H. Allen) Rec'd resignation papers. Rec'd one letter from Sarah, one from father, wrote one to J.A.H., played out today. M (marched) 25 m's (miles). Oct. 31st Moved out early. Passed through Rome (GA). Crossed Eltewa River (Etowah). Lieut. Allen started home. Lieut. Col. returned to Reg't., went into camp 6 m's (miles) from Calhoun (GA), marched 18 miles today. J.A. Hiestand. Nov. 1st Moved out early, passed through Calhoun, arrived at Resaca (GA) at 12 N (noon), moved again at 4 P.M. Rec'd one letter from father, one from Miss S.P.K., went into camp at Tilton station 3 m's (miles) from Dalton at 9 1/2 night. Nov. 2nd Went to ambulance, moved out at 7 1/2 A.M., rained some in morning, went into camp at 1 P.M. at Dalton, on Provost duty at night. Nov. 3rd Ready to move at 7 A.M., marched at 11, met Reg't conscripts, passed through Tunnel Hill, went into camp at dark at Ringold (GA). Nov. 4th Resumed march at 9 A.M., passed through Rossville (GA), went into camp at Chattanooga (TN) at sunset. Rec'd one letter & paper from Sarah. Nov. 5th In camp all day, wrote one letter to Miss S.P.K. also one to father, drew rations, clothing & c. Nov. 6th Ready to move at 7 A.M., remained in camp all day, would like to hear from home or almost any other place in America, would not care to be at home tonight. Nov. 7th In camp until 3 P.M., marched to depot, stacked arms, went on board the train at 71/2. Locomotive run of track at 10 night. Nov. 8th Still on the train, very disagreeable, arrived at Nashville at 8 P.M., would like to have been at home at the election. Nov. 9th Remained on train all night, in camp here all day, rained hard, wrote one letter to Sarah. Rec'd one from her. Nov. 10th Moved out on Franklin Pike at 8 A.M., halted at station 9 m's (miles) from N. (Nashville) for dinner, went into camp near Franklin (TN) at sunset. Nov. 11th In camp all day, worked on R.R. Bridge in A.M., nice place Franklin & c. Nov. 12th Struck tents & moved early, went into camp at Spring Hill at 1 P.M., marched 18 m's (miles). Nov. 13th Struck tents & moved at 7 A.M., marched 7 m's (miles), halted for dinner, moved again at 1 P.M., went into camp near Columbia (TN) at 3 P.M. Nov. 14th In camp all day. 3rd Division passed in A.M., would like to hear from home, beautiful country between here & Nashville. Nov. 15th In camp as usual, no mail yet, would like to hear from home again. Nov. 16th Struck tents 7 moved at day break to town. Stacked arms, built works on bank of river, marched through town at 3 P.M., went into camp in suburbs. Nov. 17th In camp all day, mail came in, Rec'd one letter from Miss N.J., replied immediately. Nov. 18th In camp, went on picket at 8 A.M., rained considerable, seen pretty girls. Nov. 19th Relieved of duty at 9 A.M., went to bed in P.M., sick, no mail for me. Nov. 20th In camp as usual, sick all day, drew Sanitary, got no mail today. Nov. 21st Struck tents & moved at day break, went into camp near fort, Reg't payed off at dark, Rec'd $109.20, very cold & stormy today. Nov. 22nd Moved out to the bridge at an early hour, relieved Co. A. to be payed, returned to camp at dark, found A.L. Mack (Alonzo L. Mack) & others there, no mail today, very cold. Nov. 23rd On detached duty as train guard at 8 A.M. Relieved at 11, wrote one letter to father, sent him $50.00, moved at dark 4 m's (miles) Nov. 24th Struck tents & moved at 7 1/2 A.M., crossed bridge, passed over bad roads, waded branch several times in P.M., two Rebel spies wounded, one captured, went into camp at 10 night near Williamsport (TN), marched hard today. Nov. 25th Companies F.C. G. & B. under com (command) of Lieut. Col. Walters, moved out at 8 A.M., 4 m's (miles), went into camp at Gordons ford on Duck River, fortified hill, had (Agie ?) fell (feel) bad tonight. Nov. 26th Remained in camp all day, rained considerable, good place to live in. Nov. 27th In camp all day. Pickets fired on last night. Sargt. Matson Co. F. captured at 1 o'clock this morning, one Reb scout killed. Matson exchanged at 3 A.M., worked hard all day on works. Gordon's sent to Col. McQuiston under arrest. Nov. 28th In camp all day, worked hard on works, would like to be where I was one year ago today, could enjoy myself much better than I am, nothing of importance transpired today. Nov. 29th Co. C. detailed as foragers, went to Gordons got apples & potatoes also lot of hogs, help to gather two (crates?) of corn in P.M. Nov. 30th Orders to move at 12 o'clock last night, struck tents & moved at 1, joined Reg't at 2, halted at day break for breakfast, marched hard all day, passed to the left of Franklin in P.M., hard fighting at night, went into camp on (line?)(harper?) at 10, went on picket, marched 40 miles today, in camp 5 m's (miles) from Franklin. J.A. Hiestand. Dec. 1st Struck tents & moved at sunrise, waded Big Harper Creek, got to Nashville at 1 P.M., Rec'd two letters, one from home, one from Miss S.P.K., marched 14 m's (miles) today. Dec. 2nd In camp all day, wrote one letter to father, rained some. Dec. 3rd In camp in A.M., went to city in P.M., got one picture taken, mailed package of letters to Sarah, returned at sunset. Reg't ready to move, two boys one Co. I the other, Co. H. accidentally shot. Reg't. went into camp in works. Dec. 4th Called into line at 5 A.M., expecting an attack, was none, wrote one letter also sent picture to Sarah, Dr. B of 11th Cav'lry came to camp. Dec. 5th In camp all day, worked on works in A.M., wrote one letter to Emma and S. (Sarah ?) also some cannonading today. Dec. 6th In camp all day, wrote one letter to John M. (Warner?). Orders to pack up at 12 N (noon), countermanded in P.M., nothing of importance transpired today. Dec. 7th In camp all day, wrote one letter to father also one to Miss S.P.K., S. (skirmish) line advanced some fighting today. Dec. 8th In camp all day, Rec'd one letter also Mother's photo from Sister Sarah, wrote letter to J.A.H., rather disagreeable today. Dec. 9th In camp as usual, wrote one letter to father one to Sarah also one to Wm. James, snowed & blowed, remained in tent all day. Dec. 10th In camp all day as usual, very disagreeable, done nothing today. Dec. 11th In camp in A.M., went to city in P.M., Rec'd one letter from father, one from Sarah also pr. mittens, one letter from Emma, very cold. Dec. 12th On detached duty as train guard, seen Abe Renolds (Reynolds) 12th M. Cav'ly (Mounted Cavalry?) was prisoner captured, escaped, came to us at Gordons ford, went to circus, got supper at saloon to night. Dec. 13th On picket, paid $1.00 for a substitute, got picture group of 5 taken in union (case?), price $7.00, mailed it also letter to Sister Sarah, Rec'd one letter from Miss N.J. also one from Wm. Randolph. Dec. 14th In camp all day, wrote one letter to James Rodman, one to Wm. Randolph, also one to Miss N.J., went to the theatre at night, returned to camp at midnight. Dec. 15th Struck tents & moved at 7 A.M., went to the front, heavy cannonading & hard fighting all day, moved to the right all day, charged the johnies at sunset, drove them to their works, pretty warm place, remained in line until dark, built works, moved to the left at 8 P.M., fortified again. Dec. 16th S. (skirmishing) began early & briskly. 15th Ind. Battery done good service today, worked on works in A.M., Cooper's Brigade charged the Rebels on our front at 4 P.M. & drove them out of their works, took quite a number of prisoners, seen great many killed. Reg't moved out one mile went into camp. Rec'd one letter from father, also one from Sister Sarah. Dec. 17th Struck tents & moved at 11 A.M., seen Reb. Col. prisoner, marched 5 miles, went into camp at 4 P.M., very bad roads & c., rained some. Dec. 18th Struck tents & moved at 7 A.M. 1 mile to Franklin Pike, drew rations, moved again immediately, halted at 12 N. (noon) for dinner, seen Rebel collors (colors?) artillery & c., moved 3 m's (miles) west into camp at 4 P.M., 1 mile from Franklin, wrote one letter to Sarah tonight. Dec. 19th In camp until 12 N. (noon), moved & crossed river, passed on through town, went into camp at 4 1/2 P.M. 2 miles from town, rained, very disagreeable, just one year ago today I enlisted at Numa, Ind. Dec. 20th Struck tents & moved at 9 A.M., went into camp at 5 P.M. one mile from Spring Hill (TN), no mail today. Dec. 21st Struck tents & moved at 12 N. (noon), passed through Spring Hill, marched 6 m's (miles), went into camp at 5 P.M. Dec. 22nd In camp all day, very cold & disagreeable, wrote & mailed one letter to Sister Sarah. Reelection of Lieut. At 2 P.M., Or Williamson (Ulysses Williamson or Asbury Williamson) unanimously elected. Dec. 23rd In camp, orders to move but countermanded. Rec'd one letter from father, wrote one to Miss N.J.. c = n. Ind. Dec. 24th In camp all day, nothing worthy of note transpired today, fine weather at the present. Nomore at present. J.A. Hiestand. Christmas Dec. 25th In camp all day as usual, Rec'd one letter from Miss Sallie Tipton, some papers from father, wrote letter to Miss Sallie Tipton. Dec. 26th In camp until 10 A.M., struck tents and moved 3 miles, went into camp at 12 N. (noon), (page torn) from Columbia, ladies called to (page torn) us, seen us before. Dec. 27th Struck tents & moved 1 mile to the right at 9 A.M., went into camp on Duck River, rather cold today. Dec. 28th In camp all day, wrote one letter to Sarah, D.P. (dress parade) at 4 P.M. Dec. 29th In camp all day, on fatigue duty in A.M., wrote to father to come & see us. Company drill in A.M. Dec. 30th In camp as usual, Gen'l inspection in A.M., policed parade ground in P.M., very disagreeable evening this, would like to be at home at the present time. Dec. 31st In camp all day as usual, done nothing in A.M. Regimental muster in P.M., on dress parade at 4 P.M., a reorganization having taken place in the 23rd A. C., we are now assigned to the 2nd Brigade, 1st Division of the 23rd A.C. Farewell 1864 Remarks As the author of this is but a Private of Co. C. 123rd Ind. Vol's. He begs the pardon of all who may feel an interest in perusing this diary for the many errors which may occur as the opportunities of a Private in the U.S. Service for sketching & taking notes of the country over which he may pass are very limited. Any one will find this to be true. In this, the initials S. & D.P. which occur in this the former represent the work Skirmishing, the latter, D.P. represent dress parade. ----------------------------------------------------------------- USGENWEB NOTICE: These electronic pages may NOT be reproduced in any format for profit or presentation by other organizations or persons. 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