NE, Hamilton Co.; CIVIL WAR LETTERS OF GENERAL DELAVAN BATES; MAY 1862 TO JUNE 1867 From the transcriptions of the original letters as performed by William S. Saint, Jr. Submitted to the USGenWeb Nebraska Archives, January, 1998, by Ted and Carole Miller (susieque@pacbell.net). USGenWeb Project NOTICE: In keeping with our policy of providing free information on the internet, data may be used by non-commercial researchers, as long as this message remains on all copied material. These electronic pages may not be reproduced in any format for profit, nor for presentation in any form by any other organization or individual. Persons or organizations desiring to use this material for purposes other than as stated above, must obtain express written permission from the author, or the submitter and from the listed USGenWeb Project archivist. *************** BIOGRAPHY: Delevan BATES b. 17 Mar 1840 in Richmondville, Schoharie Co., NY. Mustered 18 Aug 1862 into 121st NY Volunteers, 6th Army Corps, as 2nd Lt. 14 Sep 1862: Battle of South Mountain, MD. Captured just after the fall of Fredericksburg, at Salem Church; sent to Libby Prison. Was exchanged about two weeks later. Rejoined his regiment at Little Round Top during second day's fight at Gettysburg. Feb 1864: Was examined as possible officer for service with colored troops. 1 Mar 1864 : Appointed Colonel of 30th Regiment, US Colored Troops. 30 Jul 1864: At Petersburg, led his troops into "the crater" (created by a huge explosion of gunpowder) and drove out the enemy. A short time later, led his men in charge against a rebel battery and was shot in the face. Was carried out of the battle by some of his troops. 11 Oct 1864: Returned to duty and was given command of a brigade with the rank of General. Jan 1865: Sent to North Carolina. Dec 1865: Mustered out and returned to NY. Was awarded the Congressional Medal of Honor for his part in the fight at Petersburg. Married 1 January 1870 to Lana A. GREEN of NY. 1872: Took a homestead (160 acres) in Hamilton County, NE. Moved to the site of Aurora, NE before the town incorporated. Mrs. Lana Bates died in 1902. Gen. Bates died 19 Dec 1918 at Aurora, Hamilton, NE; is buried at the Aurora Cemetery. Their children were: Lena METZGER (deceased), LaVerne (of Modesto, CA), C.L. (of LaGrange, IL) and Mrs. Daisy TUNISON, of Aurora, NE. He was a member of the Masons and the Ancient Order of United Workmen. Was Member of the Grand Army of the Republic; past commander of the local G.A.R. post. Gen. Delevan Bates was vice president of the First National Bank of Aurora. He provided the finances to guarantee the building of the County Courthouse & was active in the struggle to incorporate Aurora as a town. He served as member of first board of trustees. He paid for the cemetery until the town could assume that burden. Gen. Bates served as county superintendent of schools. He was a member of the city council of Aurora for eight years; served two terms served as mayor. Sources: Obits & Cemetery records. History of Hamilton & Clay Counties, Nebraska Vol. I. George L. Burr, Supervising Editor. Compiled by Dale P. Stough; Chicago; S.J. Clarke Publishing Co. - 1921 --------------------------------------------------------------------------- The Civil War Letters of Delavan Bates May 1862 -June 1867 Transcribed by William S. Saint, Jr. April, 1988 John G. Saint, M.D. (Great Grand-Nephew) 404 Colbrook Drive Springfield, EL. 62702-3369 Phone: (217) 787-0079 Introduction Delavan Bates was my great, great uncle. He was raised on a farm near Otsego, New York. Following the outbreak of the Civil War in April 1861, he joined the 121st New York Volunteers in the Union Army. He participated in virtually all the important battles of the Civil War, including Gettysburg, Chancellorsville and Fredericksburg (where he was taken prisoner), and was regularly promoted until he became a Brevet Brigadier General at the end of the war. Notably, Bates served as Colonel of the 30th United States Colored Troops. In this capacity he was wounded in the head on July 30, 1864 while leading a charge at the famous "Battle of the Crater" near Petersburg, Virginia. His heroism on that day earned him a Congressional Medal of Honor. At the end of the war, Bates tried his hand as a merchant and storekeeper in Salisbury, North Carolina. He later returned to New York where he married Lana Ann Green on January 2, 1870 in West Richmondville. He died on April 18, 1902 [correction: December 19, 1918] leaving five children. Delavan Bates wrote regularly to his father, Alpheus, and the following 77 letters comprise what remains of that correspondence. The letters indicate that Bates was better educated than most of his peers and portray him as a committed, pragmatic and somewhat stoic soldier. His commentary ranges from dispassionate observations on the suffering and tedium produced by war to eloquent personal vignettes and brotherly admonishments directed to his twin younger sisters, Valerie and Valetta. Interestingly for such an educated man, he routinely employed two different spellings in signing his name. For those who wish to appreciate Bates' personal accounts within the larger context of the war itself, I heartily recommend Bruce Catton's historical books on this great struggle, particularly A Stillness at Appomattox. William S. Saint Nairobi, Kenya April, 1988 Camp of the 121st New York Vols May 8, 1862 Dear Sir, It is with a sad heart that I pen a few lines to you to inform you of the painful intelligence of your son Delavan Bates. He is among the missing of our regiment. We went into a hard fought battle three miles west of Fredericksburg on Sunday last about 5:00 pm. We were compelled to retreat and Delavan came out with me and we were rallying the men to resume the fight. I cannot find anyone who saw him fall and I think he was wounded and taken prisoner. My lst Lieutenant Butts said he saw him limp as he was coming out of the woods so he may have been wounded in the leg. I have done all that I could to find out where he is or whether anyone saw him but I am unable to learn anything concerning him. I will say that none feel more deeply his loss than I do as I have never met with a friend that I thought as much of as Delavan Bates. I hope and trust we shall hear that he is safe from all harm. Delavan has a valise here with clothes which will be sent to you. Your attentive servant, J. S. Kidder Captain Fort Lincoln, September 5, 1862 Father, We have just settled down for good and got things arranged so that we have everything convenient. Everything I say by which I mean all that is necessary to live comfortably. This is the first time I have wrote to anyone since I left home except on business. I shall write oftener now. We left Mohawk Saturday, August 30th about noon, arrived at Albany at 5:00 pm and took tea there, everything being furnished by a society organized for the relief of soldiers. Went aboard the boat at night. Had good lodgings, reached New York Sunday morning about 10 o'clock, went up to the barracks which are opposite the Astor house at which place the officers were invited to stop. We stayed here till Monday morning then crossed the ferry and took the cars at Jersey City for Philadelphia and reached there about 6 o'clock. Had a splendid supper furnished by the Union relief society. Took the cars for Baltimore about midnight and arrived there Tuesday forenoon. All quiet in the city although no doubt there are quite a number of secessionists there. A good many have gone South. Had lunch and supper here furnished by a Union Society as at Albany and Philadelphia. Took the cars about midnight for Washington, about four regiments go through daily the railroad agent said. Reached Washington Wednesday morning, had conversations and started on foot for our home for the present, Fort Lincoln. It is four miles northeast of the city toward Maryland and very likely the place where Washington will be attacked if ever from the Maryland side. The fort is merely a breastwork thrown up with a ditch around and some brush, mounting twelve 32 pounders, one howitzer, one rifled cannon, and one Passagun making 15 pieces in all. There is also besides the artillery company 2 companies of infantry in tents near the fort and our regiment which is about 4 rods from the fort. I like the location first rate. We can see the Potomac in the distance, 3 or 4 other forts also, the city being surrounded by 40 or 50 of them. The ground was owned by a Secesh (secessionist). He has splendid orchards and everything nice around but the soldiers are fast ruining the place. The night before we came a band of guerrillas were within 1 1/2 miles of the fort. A Rebel flag is flying in sight. I think Pope will fall back in this fort before long. McDowell is considered a traitor. I am well satisfied with the business. I went down to the city yesterday. Lots of wounded soldiers are brought in every day. No one knows how long we are to stay here. We may stay a month and may not a week. One regiment that came in last week were in the fight this week. The boys are all ready but need a little more drilling. They are very anxious to go down and destroy the village where that Secesh flag is flying. My clothes you may sell if you have a good chance and get what they are worth. My coat cost about $13.00, vest 3 or 4, pants $4.00, hat $1.75. If not you can wear them. If you write, direct to Lieut. D. Bates, Co. I, 121st Regiment, N.Y. Volunteers, Washington, D.C. Camp Schuyler, Mohawk August 21, 1862 Father, I have obtained the position of 2nd Lieutenant. We have orders to leave here for camp of instruction next Monday. I cannot therefore get home before we go. If you can, I would like to have you come out Saturday or Sunday and fetch my trunks. Tell Mother to take everything out and put in all of my fine shirts and collars, two towels, all the military books in my bookcase and Bible, 2 pair woolen and 2 pair cotton stockings, razor, razor strap, lather box, clothes brush, and necktie. I expect to get pay Friday for money paid out getting the boys here, but if I do not I shall have to get some money somewhere else for a short time to pay for my uniform, and if you can fetch out $50.00 with you I would like to have you. I like it first rate and have slept in a tent every night since I came. Tell Sloan if you see him before you start to send out the bounty money for the boys want it before they leave. Start early and you can drive through easy enough in a day. I think we shall leave G.R. Sage for Chaplain. Delavan Bates Near Williamsport, Maryland September 22, 1862 Father, As you no doubt have heard of the battles that are being fought around here, and probably anxious to know whether our regiment has been engaged or not, I write to you again. Although Franklin's Corps and Slocum's Division of which we form part have been in several engagements, we have been left behind every time. The nearest we have been to a fight was at Burketsville where we lay behind a knoll over which the enemy fired a few shots andshells, while the Sharpsburgh fight was in progress we were at Crampton Gap six miles distant guarding that place. We lay under a (?) one, night. Dell Gaylot accidently shot himself in the hand. He was dreaming, as he explained, that the rebels were coming and his gun went off. We are now about 10 miles north of Sharpsburgh. Saturday night we commenced marching at midnight, the report being received that the rebels had crossed into Maryland again. We were hurried right through, I was officer of the guard that day and had to bring up the rear. I guess there was as many as 10 or 15 fell out of every company, could not stand it marching so fast. We marched till 5 o'clock Sunday morning and I think I could have kept up till noon at the same gait. The rebels had crossed and drove in our advance but the report is now they have crossed back again. I think they do it on purpose to bother McClellan, first crossing here and then there, keeping his troops running up and down the river to drive them back. You see by the papers that they were terribly defeated in the great fight last week, perhaps they were but they took their time crossing the river and the next day one of our brigades crossed in their rear and were driven back on a double quick. Both armies suffered severely and what advantage was gained was on our side as they were compelled to fall back but the papers as usual will be about everything in regard to the war. The 121st has been very fortunate thus far for a number of new regiments have been rushed right into the thickest of the fighting. The 126th was at Harper's Ferry during that fight and were all killed or taken prisoners. Orange (?) Wright is lieutenant in his company and has command of it now, there being no other officer in the company. Orlando Bruce is wounded in the head, not dangerous, John Wilting died in the hospital a short time ago. That company has but 21 men fit for duty now. There is no telling when we will be called into action and for my part I don't care how soon but I do not think we shall until we are better drilled unless the army is badly cramped. If I get shot I don't want you to -go to the trouble of sending for my body. It is all nonsense. It will do no good. It can return to its native dust as easy and as well in Dixie as anywhere. Old soldiers say the army will have to go into winter quarters in six or eight weeks when winter commences on account of the mud. If we do not get into a fight before then I do not believe we shall at all for I think this affair will surely be settled before Spring. I cannot believe the people will stand it any longer losing men by the thousands and money by the millions, for no one knows what as the end appears farther than it did in the beginning. -2- You need not feel uneasy or worry at all about me. I knew all I should have to endure before I came. We have had what I call easy times so far although a great many find fault already. I shall not write often as we are situated, and you need not expect it as long as I am doing well until we get settled where we have more convenience, then I will write to all. Tell all that are expecting letters the same. If I get shot you will hear immediately. If wounded or anything unusual turns up or if I am in a battle I will write. When I do not write, you may feel contented, everything is well. I would like to be home occasionally to see you all and enjoy some of the luxuries that I never before fully appreciated such as a straw bed. I wouldn't mind the feathers, pudding and milk, a good stream of water to go to sometimes, a little applesauce, good fresh bread, potatoes, etc. Yet I am satisfied, have plenty to eat such as it is, crackers, coffee regular, beef, rice, beans, and mixed vegetables, dried for soup occasionally, and sometimes we have an opportunity of buying bread, potatoes, apples, peaches, cakes, cheese, chickens by paying very near their weight in silver. I sleep well, never better, and am well and more than all that content. Tell Ellen I remember her good advice but have got in the wrong place to put it all into execution. Sundays are unknown here. In every other respect the army is very moral. Tell Carlton, Clarence and Orion I would send them something but there is no chance. If I live to get home I will fetch a present of some kind if they are good boys. Tell Ursula I would like to take tea with her next Sunday afternoon if circumstances would permit. Tell Valetta and Valerie to be good scholars, attentive to their studies. That advice though is useless for I know they will but tell them to write so that I can see whether they are improving or not. Write all about what they are doing , what mother is doing, and Father, if the hops are picked, how the peaches are and everything you can think of. Tell Carlton to write too. Give my kind regards to all inquiring friends. Tell all that letters will be thankfully received, that they are not forgotten because I do not write to them but it is for want of means and opportunity as I don't like to write with a pencil. The boys that came with me are all well except a few who by imprudent eating have bad stomachs or diarrhea. David Bushnell and Treat Kemp have volunteered to stay in the hospital at Burketsville and take care of the wounded. I wrote to you before in regard to my clothes, if you did not receive the letter I think Father had better wear them out unless you can sell them for all they are worth. Write as soon as you received this that I may know it went through safely. I have not received a letter since leaving home. Did not expect any until I wrote so you would know where to direct which I did about three weeks ago. Send all letters to: Lieut. D. Bates Company I, 121st N.Y. Volunteers Slocum's Division Franklin's Corps Washington, D.C. October 25, 1862 Camp near Bakersville, Maryland Father, You may send me a little money by the next mail if you can. Not over ten dollars for I would not risk a larger amount in one letter and perhaps you had better put that in two. Please write also if you have paid Ezra Bushnell the 30 dollars I had of him. Pay day ought to come the last of this month but no one expects to get anything for some of the old regiments have been without for five or six months. Everything in camp as usual. Lieut. Davis from Company A died a few days ago and quite a number of privates though none that came with--except David Bushnell, Charles Wilsey, William Bruce, N. Berner, Ben Fannin (?), George Durling and Eli Powers are in the hospital but are getting better. Gen. Slocum has been promoted so you may direct to D. Bates Co. I, 121st N.Y. Vols Bartlett's Brigade Franklin's Corps Washington, D.C. In Hospital Camp near Burksville October 29, 1862 Father, Don't be scared to see my letter dated here, I will explain all. I have had the camp distemper of course with all the rest, and got down quite weak and a day or two ago we had a hearty cold rain storm. Many of the boys were taken down with the fever, and I was very badly threatened. I concluded the best policy was to go immediately to the hospital, have the fever broken in its early stages and take a thorough cleansing and then I believe I can live down here this winter without any trouble. If I should get danguay (?) or anything of that kind I will write be assured. As it is I consider myself lucky in getting here as I did, for the regiment left with three days rations the next day after I came and although I was feeling very weak I should have undertaken to keep up with the rest and the result a complete failure and a severe attack of some disease. I have not learned where the boys are going although I think they have crossed the river where we have been out picketing before to make a reconnaissance in force to see if the rebel pickets have any support. They did not go alone, a number of other regiments went also. This hospital is on a small elevation called Mt. Moriah. There is one church and a large school house. I am in the school house. It is very comfortable. Has a fire, etc. D. Bates Hagerstown, Maryland November 6, 1862 Father, When I last wrote to you I told you I was stricken with the fever and should have to go to the hospital a short time. The regimental hospital had no medicine and so I was sent to Hagerstown to the general hospital. Here I found things just the same. I received one pill in two days. I telegraphed for you but guess you did not receive it and am now glad you did not for I and Lt. Van Horne have succeeded in obtaining a place at a private house in the village where we have the best of nursing and good medical treatment. You need not feel worried about me for I shall fare just as well as though I was at home. You need not send me any money until I get well enough to need it when I will write. Answer this as soon as you can. Direct: Lt. D. Bates Hagerstown, Maryland In care of Rebecca Maxwell Hagerstown, Maryland November 27, 1862 Mother, Here I am yet in Hagerstown on Thanksgiving Day. The weather is splendid, not a particle of snow, middling cool. The sun shining brightly and 1, myself, feeling very nice. I shall not go out today as I have a slight attack of the jaundice, nothing serious. I am getting real strong since I got over the fever, should probably have been stronger if I had not went down to Washington so soon, but I am glad I went for I got my pay for two months by going, over 200 dollars, which I do not know when I should have got without going down and this will pay all I am owing and some beside. Those berries you sent me were splendid. They are the first I have tasted since leaving home. Mrs. Swartz, a real old lady where I am boarding, stewed them for me. Mrs. Maxwell where I was when I had the fever and Mrs. Swartz both have been very kindto me, doing as much as anyone possibly could for me, except you. I gave Mrs. Maxwell 20 dollars for I have no doubt she saved my life. The doctor only charged me $4.25 for five visits in which he broke the fever and nursing brought me up. I know you must worry yourself a good deal about me. Now for my sake don't any more, I have enjoyed myself first rate ever since I left home except a few days on the march and about a week when I was in the hospital, but I never got downhearted or discouraged a particle. When I get home, and I surely expect to get thereagain, I am going to stay. So make yourself as contented as you can till I come. You know I always wanted to go away from home to see the world, and especially for the last few years. Now I am away and am perfectly satisfied that there is nothing away from home that will satisfy a person's desires any more than at home. Even in Washington where I stayed three days I saw nothing that would entice me to stay rather than be with you at home. Tell Valetta and Valerie I was much pleased with their letter, and think they improve in their writing finely and I did not discover a single mistake in the spelling. They must write often now they have commenced for letters from home can not come too often and they can write easier than you or father. I don't know when I shall join my regiment, not until I am perfectly well though. Father wanted to know about the officers, I like them all first rate. Our new Colonel is worth four like Franchot and Major Olcott is just as fine a fellow as you ever saw. Our Capt. John S. Kidder from Morris is a real nice clever man. I messed with him alone for the last weeks before I went to the hospital . The Major is thinking it most too familiar with the Sergeants to have them with us. Leroy Neale done our cooking and I think it cost us as little for board as any officers in the regiment, the Captain being very economical. I found my trunk when in Washington and got what things I had in it that I needed, but those drawers and stockings come first rate for I should have had to buy some drawers without them. Now do try and be contented until I get home and don't grieve yourself to death about me. I have not really suffered a particle since leaving home and before I go to the army I shall get such things as I need for my comfort. Tell the children to answer this right away, that I may know you have received it, and whether father received one from me last week. Registration, December 12, 1862 Father, I did not intend writing to you this week as I have written but I have made up my mind to leave next Monday (December 15th) for the I am getting tired of laying around with nothing to do and I wish also to stop at Washington a day or two and as Congress will not probably be in session during the holiday I concluded to go next week. I feel perfectly well, can stand it to walk around the city all day, have a good appetite and I think if I get another blanket or two can stand the cold, although I expect it freezes middling hard on the Rappahannock. The Army is doing nothing at present and nobody knows when it will. I heard some time ago that Capt. Kidder was sick and if he is, I ought to be with the company the last of this month any way to make out the muster roll for pay, which is done every two months. I shall not write again probably until I reach the Regiment unless something happens that I do not start next week. Direct your letters to: Lt. Bates Co. I 121st N.Y.V. Brooks Division Washington, D. C. To Valetta and Valerie, How are you this winter. I have not had but one letter from you. Ellen said you were busy drying apples. That is right, help each other all you can. That cake of maple sugar I guess Valerie sent for Valetta sent hers when I was at Camp Schuyler. It tasted so good when I was getting well. Write again, that was a first rate letter. A good deal better than the first one I wrote. Since I left home I have seen a good many new things: railroads, canals, cities, villages, armies and other things too numerous to mention. If you will look on the map you can see where I have been. From (?) to (?),Schoharie, Schenectady, Albany, New York City, Jersey City, Newark, Elizabeth Town, Princeton, Trenton, Philadelphia, Chester, Wilmington, Elkton, Havre de Grace, Baltimore, Washington, Georgetown, Rockville and along up the Potomac to within about 10 miles of the Pennsylvania line. There we stayed about four weeks when I was taken sick and was taken to this place five miles from Bunsgetain Monday I shall go to Washington and from there to Fredericksburgh on the Rappahannock River. Be good girls, learn to work, and remember your brother. Delavan Camp near Falmouth, Virginia December 22, 1862 Father, I started from Hagerstown December 16th with a squad of convalescents 17 in number which the hospital surgeon wished me to take along. We stayed at Harrisburg, Pennsylvania the first night, Baltimore the next, arriving in Washington the 18th where we remained waiting for transportation until Saturday noon when we left for Acquia (?) Creek--remained there over night--Sunday took the cars for Falmouth and found my regiment encamped three miles south of that place, having had a very pleasant trip. As I reached the brow of the hill back of Falmouth I could see the rebel camp fires all along the side of the hill beyond Fredericksburg, where also those terrible batteries are placed which cut our armies to pieces at the late battle, and which many of our men consider almost impregnable. Our regiment lost 4 killed and 12 wounded. Our company lost none, but Henry Caryl came very near being wounded, a spent ball striking his arm but not breaking the skin. Harm Bruce and William Boorn were taken prisoners on the march through Virginia, they having fallen behind the army. They have been paroled and sent to Annapolis, Md. Gibson Deling and Scobdell are here well. I gave them those mittens and socks. Silas Waterman is in the hospital at Washington. William Bruce is about well enough to join the regiment. Charley Wilsey, Joseph Darling, Cyrus Wescott, Peter Serril, Austin Teal, George Pierson, etc. are well. Humphrey Berner is at Fredrick, Md. in the hospital. John Wilsey and William Griggs have deserted. The boys are looking healthy and have things quite comfortable, so that they do not suffer any. The weather is not very cold at present, no snow. We do not know what we shall be ordered to do next. Probably nothing for a week or two. While at Washington I went into the capitol, heard a member from Maryland make a speech in the House of Representatives on the presidential proclamation. The Senate was not in session. I also visited the Navy Yard, Smithsonian Institute, etc. I received a letter from mother forwarded from Hagerstown last night when I arrived. Tell Valetta and Valerie I think they improve very fast in writing. I am feeling well as ever. Delavan Bates January 10, 1863 Camp near Falmouth, Virginia Father, The Grand Army of the Potomac yet lies inactive on the banks of the Rappahannock. The repulse at Fredericksburgh seems to have thrown such a chill over the anticipations of our leaders so that they do not know what to do next. We are very comfortably situated, having cabins built up with logs about four feet high, then placing our tents over and banking up the outside. Having a fireplace inside and plenty of wood, we have no trouble keeping warm. The weather is very mild, not cold enough to wear an overcoat much of the time. We drill a little every day and Col. Upton says we are improving very fast. The orderly sergeant of our company has been promoted to 2nd Lieutenant and is to be transferred to another company, there being a scarcity of commissioned officers in some on accounting of sickness and resignations. I think that is doing pretty well, Company I furnishing officers for the rest. His name is James Cronkhite of Milford, a smart fellow too. Jerome was over to see me a few days ago. He is looking very healthy, is orderly sergeant and will probably be promoted before too long. The boys that are here are well. Silas Waterman is at Washington yet, I have not heard from him lately. I send you some cotton balls in a newspaper. It grows about 15 inches high, the stalks looking somewhat like beans with the balls on top and branches. The land looks miserable having been cultivated a great deal of it years ago but now all covered with little pine bushes. My health remains good. I am contented yet with army life, but do not think I should like to follow it as a profession. Write soon all the news and whether you received my commission which I sent by Ezra Bushnell. I had forgot all about it until a few days ago. Lieut. D. Bates Co. I, 121st N.Y. Vols Camp 121st N.Y. Vols Near White Oak Church, Virginia February 14, 1863 Father, We have received our pay today up to December 31st. I received $205.24 and send you a check for $200 which I wish you to take care of for me until I want it. I have $50.00 yet that I received in November which I think will pay my expenses till next pay day. My health remains good and I weigh heavier than ever before. We are yet in camp about five miles south of Fredericksburg where we shall probably stay two or three weeks at least. Where the next attempt will be made by the Army of the Potomac towards subduing the rebellion no one can tell. The 9th Army corps has gone down to Fortress Monroe. The weather is mild and pleasant. There is not much sickness in our regiment at present, except with the measles. Gephamiah Foot of Milford died with them in Company "I" which I guess is the only case that has proved fatal. Joseph Darling died a few days ago with the liver complaint. Silas Waterman is in Washington yet. I have not heard how he is lately. The boys are all feeling first rate today. Most of them received from 40 to 50 dollars, this being the first money they have received since leaving New York. What is the feeling in regard to the war in the North now? Do they intend raising more troops in the Spring and renewing the conflict with renewed vigor? Or do you think conciliation will be tried? I see Gre7eley talks a little in favor of foreign intervention but I suppose he is of little consequence nowadays. Write as soon as you receive this that I may know you have received the check. Yours, Delavan 121st N.Y. Vols Tuesday night, April 28, 1863 Packed up everything and started on our spring campaign at 3 o'clock p.m. Marched to within a mile of the river. The roads and fields full of troops in every direction. We cross our Division, one mile below Fredericksburgh. Bartlett's Brigade is to cross second in the boats. Two corps cross above the city, one below us, and one corps with the remaining divisions of ours are in reserve. Wednesday morning We started at midnight, marched to the river, found the engineers hauling the pontoon boats to the banks and our batteries in position. Just before daylight everything is ready. Russell's Brigade jump in the boats and are rapidly pushed across, no noise yet from the other side. What can the rebels mean? Are they waiting to sweep the whole brigade to destruction? It is so dark we cannot see the opposite bank. The first boat touches the shore. When a dozen rifles crack at once, we are just discovered. It is a complete surprise. The men from the boats spring up the bank to the rifle pit on a double quick. And we on the other side drop to the ground but the firing soon ceases. The rebel pickets retreat and form a line of skirmishers about half a mile back losing one Lieutenant and five men prisoners. They killed two men of ours in the boats and wounded five men and one Colonel. The boats re-cross as soon as possible and Bartlett's (ours) and Kingsley's (?) Brigades go over forming a line and advancing to within sight of the rebels and halt awaiting the result at the other points. It is now daylight. Heavy firing is heard below. Our men there are repulsed. The light brigade in the reserves are going in that direction on a double quick. Hark! they are there. Cheer after cheer arises, they are charging, another loud cheer, they are across, the rebels retiring. The fighting is done for today as the right will have to march down fifteen miles before they reach the enemy. Tomorrow will tell the story. Thursday Morning, April 30th All quiet. It rained considerable last night. Our men throwed up a long line of rifle pits in front of our pontoon bridge, which were laid down yesterday as soon as our division had crossed. We hear a rumor that the crossing above was successful. Hooker himself being there with 50,000 men. Thursday night No fighting through the day, except with artillery. The rebels shell our men on the left who were digging rifle pits. Friday morning, May lst The 121st were on picket last night and will be today. No excitement on the line. It is a splendid morning. Virginia presents a different aspect altogether on this side of the river. It is the finest country I ever saw. Large tracts of flat land with hills in the distance. Beautiful mansions, some standing and others in ruin. One the (?) near our lines must have cost at least 50,000 dollars. The woodwork is burnt up. The walls are of very heavy stone and it was surrounded with park, lawns, walks, shrubbery, everything desirable for either (?) or taste. We can begin now to form an idea of the residence of a southern gentleman. Page -2 - Letter of: April 28, 1863 A rumor has just been received that our cavalry have secured the communication between here and Richmond. If so the rebels are in pretty close quarters. Yours, Delavan Annapolis, Maryland May 25, 1863 Father, I am again under the Stars and Stripes and where I hope to hear from home once more. I wrote you while in Richmond but did not expect an answer until I was sent north. You no doubt have read and reread the many accounts of the battle where I with many others were captured and hurried off to a southern prison so I will not try to describe it but only give a faint outline of my travels. April 29th at daybreak our division crossed the river one mile below Fredericksburgh without much opposition. We lay on the opposite bank until Sunday May 3rd when we advanced and engaged the enemy below the city while Newton's division and the light brigade stormed Maryes Heights behind the city. In the afternoon we took the front pursuing the retreating foe toward Chancellorsville expecting of course to meet Hooker and finish the contest by annihilating the Rebel Army. But instead of meeting him we at Salem Church five miles from Fredericksburgh met a strong detachment of the enemy sent by Lee to reinforce those we had driven from the city and check our advance. They halted in a piece of wood which surrounds the church and met us Indian fashion behind the trees. We advanced to within 10 rods when they opened one of the deadliest fires I ever saw. We continued advancing however until we reached the church, the rebs giving way from tree to tree. Here we were halted and ordered to commence firing. We done so. If we had went on I think we would have cleared the wood but the minute we stopped the men fell faster and faster until at last the right commenced falling back and then the whole line went like sheep and the rebs after us yelling like devils. I with a good many others from the Division was taken. I heard the next day that our regiment lost 216 killed, wounded and missing. Captain Wendell, Lt. Doubleday and Ford were killed. Capt. Arnold and Masher and Lt. Upton wounded. Several bullets went through my coat and haversack but thank heaven none hit my person. I was taken about a mile to the rear where we stayed all night and I learned that Jackson had out- flanked and defeated Hooker, thus leaving us at his mercy at Fredericksburgh after it had been so gallantly taken. Monday was marched down to Spotsylvania courthouse and Tuesday to Guiney's (?) Station. Here we remained until Friday when we took the cars for Richmond and at night was safely lodged in a large tobacco warehouse called after its owner Libby prison. We were treated well as prisoners could ask to be treated. On the 23rd I was paroled with about 100 other officers, took the cars for city point via Petersburgh. Got aboard a flag of truce boat, went around by Fortress Monroe and reached here this morning thankful enough. I do not know how long it will be before we will be exchanged. Not long, however. I want you to write immediately that I may receive an answer before ordered away. How you all are and what's the news and also whether you received the check I sent you the day we started from camp and if you can find out whether Dave Thurber received the one I sent him for the boys. Direct to: Lt. D. Bates 121st N.Y. Vols Annapolis, Maryland Alexandria, Virginia May 26, 1863 Father, This heavy marching is using the men up again this summer and I have come to the conclusion to stop here a short time until I recover my strength and appetite which have both been diminishing very fast for some time. I had a very severe time getting here being so weak. In fact have been obliged to ride in an ambulance for two days previous. I am again threatened with a fever but trust a few days rest and nursing will bring me out of it. If I do have the fever again, I shall say good bye to war for I have seen about enough of that. There is a female nurse here who is very kind so don't worry. I will write often as I can. Do not put on the regiment but direct to Lt. D. Bates Mansion House Hospital Alexandria, Virginia Fairfax Station June 17, 1863 Father, The army of the Potomac, as you are by this time no doubt aware, is again obliged to fall back to the Potomac River to defend the free states from rebel invasion. Our Corps started on the night of the 13th of this month withdrawing what force we had on the south bank of the Rappahannock with the utmost secrecy to prevent the rebs left in Fredericksburgh from, attacking our rear. We passed through Potomac Station on the Aeynia (?) railroad, Stafford court house, Dumfries to Occoynan (?) destroying everything that we could not bring with us. One million dollars would scarcely cover the loss of the army on this retreat. We are to continue along up the river and perhaps have our summer campaign in Maryland and Pennsylvania. It is useless to try to do anything towards putting down this rebellion until we have a General competent to meet General Lee. Here we have laid all winter with a force double his at least, gained a position where he was obliged to come out of his entrenchments and attack the main body of our army behind breastworks, and then we were badly defeated. And now as soon as our army is about equal to theirs, Lee starts north and crosses the Potomac first. I did think when we crossed the river the last of April with the odds so much in our favor that there was no chance for Lee, but he has proved himself the first general of the day. The South has unlimited confidence in his abilities, have entrusted him with the whole military power of the Confederate States and no one questions any of his acts. I stand the marching first rate. A few blisters on my feet is all the inconvenience I feel. We march from 15 to 20 miles per day. The roads are very dusty. The weather sultry. I received some letters from you when I reached the regiment. They come here instead of going to Annapolis. Delavan Bates July 4, 1863 Bivouac near Gettysburg Father, The army of the Potomac is all here. Also General Lee's army. We have been fighting two days. The rebs had the advantage the first day, but yesterday we repulsed them on every side taking a large number of prisoners. We have troops coming in all around and expect to destroy them without fail this time. Our regiment has not lost any yet having been engaged in supplying batteries. Others have lost heavily. General Reynold (?) and Ward are dead. Bicker (?) and Howard wounded. Delavan July 21, 1863 Near Snickers Gap, Virginia Father, I received your letter of the 12th and also one from Ursula of the 11th. We are wending our way down the old track again where our army passed last fall. We shall not push Lee very hard, I think, until the conscripts are received. Capt. Galpin has gone with a squad to fetch enough to fill our regiment. I would like to write a good long letter describing some of the scenes of the march but cannot until we get in camp somewhere and get rested out. My health as a general thing has been good but you know of course a person anywhere will have a day or two of indisposition now and then. Virginia is suffering tenfold that she ever did before. The soldiers steal and plunder everything they can lay their hands upon and night before last a splendid barn was burned where we camped. I can't like this way of doing business. Private property should be respected the world over. The rebs I know did in Pennsylvania but that does not justify us who have plenty of victories (?) of our own. We crossed the river on the morning of the 19th near Berlin below Harper's Ferry. The men are very hopeful of an early close of the. war since the victories in the Southwest. Delavan August 8, 1863 Alexandria, Virginia Father, I received your letter but as I wrote to Cecilia the same day have not answered you till now. I got discharged from the hospital as soon as I got through taking medicine and am now boarding at a private house. I could not relish the food at the hospital. They are strong Secesh where I board but they nurse me first rate and I am gaining strength fast. We had some pork and beans for dinner the other day which tasted the best of anything I have had to eat in a month. They never cooked any before but one of the other boarders, a Yankee from Massachusetts who is at work in the commissary department in the city, showed them how to cook them. Very few Southerners ever eat any beans. We have also plenty of garden sauce, cucumbers, beets, etc. and in the streets can get huckleberries, blackberries, apples, pears, peaches, etc. A majority of the folks are Secesh but they have got broke under so they are no trouble. I shall join the regiment next week. I think the army will lay still some time as great numbers of troops are being sent South. George St. John's regiment passed through day before yesterday. Direct your letters after this, also tell Ellen and Ursula too, to; 121st New York Volunteers, 6th Army Corps, Washington, D.C. Delavan Camp, 121st N.Y. Volunteers August 31, 1863 Father, Your letter of the 25th of this month is received, also one from Ursula which I answered the day before it arrived. Tell her to write again. We remain in camp yet at New Baltimore, five miles north of Warrenton in Tangier (?) County. Our trip to Charleston did not come off much to my disappointment for I would like very well to go a little farther south before winter sets in for I find the cold is not afraid to come down as far at least as the banks of the Rappahannock where we stayed last winter. Even now the nights are chilly enough to need two heavy woolen blankets over one's self while sleeping in a good tent. Notwithstanding, the days are very warm and pleasant. We were on picket three days last week. Our company was stationed on the road to Gainesville about three-fourths of a mile from camp. Had five posts, from 30 to 40 rods apart, connecting with other companies on the right and left, allowing no one to pass without leave from Gen. Bartlett, Wright or Meade. This is to prevent the enemy's obtaining any knowledge of our location or numbers or other information that might be of service to7 them. We had a very good time out there, as we could send out to the inhabitants nearby and purchase milk, butter and garden sauce as much as we wished. We were not disturbed by any enemy but were called to arms one morning just before daybreak by a sentinel who was rather timid and imagined he saw a line of battle approaching which however proved to be some bushes moving in the wind and an old gray horse walking behind them. There are no regular southern troops near here, but Moseby and White have about 700 guerrillas scattered around between here and Alexandria who we. have to be on the alert for. Lt. Col. Olcott went out yesterday with 100 men on a scouting expedition about Thoroughfare Gap but did not find anybody but citizens. Col. Upton has gone to Washington sick. Has got the fever. The health of the regiment is good, there being only eight in the regimental hospital now and only one death has occurred since my return. My health remains good and I am very near as strong as I was before my sickness. I am not troubled with the camp distemper, have not been since we were at Bakersville, Maryland a year ago this fall. The whole brigade attended divine service yesterday (except those on the scout) at Brigade headquarters. The chaplain of the 5th Maine preached. Our chaplain (Sage) has resigned and gone home, got tired of the business I suppose. We had a very good Methodist sermon and with the music of the brigade brass band and also the bands of the different regiments (we have four in the brigade) made the afternoon pass very pleasantly. Our band has one bass drum, half a dozen small ones, and four fifes and is considered the best in the brigade. We have music for everything, music telling us when to get up, music telling us when to go to bed, when to get breakfast, when to eat dinner, when to clean the streets, when to drill, when to stop drilling, when to go to church on the Sabbath, and when to come back. All is told us by drum and fife. Page -2- Letter of August 31, 1863 I wish you could be down here some morning to hear the reveille beaten, or at a review. You would almost wish you were a soldier too, to hear them play Yankee Doodle, Hail to the Chief, the Village Quick Step, the Wrecker's Daughter or the White Cockade. The last you probably used to hear when you were a boy, as it is an old tune. My promotion was made by Gov. Seymour on the recommendation of Col. Upton. All promotions are made in this way in New York troops, either on the recommend of the commanding officer or the influence of political friends. No elections are held. I shall have money enough to last until next pay day, I think. If I should not, I can borrow which will be safer than to have any sent by mail. Most of the boys would rather lend their money than to carry it themselves, when they do not send it all home. You have been very fortunate to get your summer's work along so well. Is Tommy with you yet? If he is not, you had better get some boy even if you have to pay 8 or 10 dollars a month to stay with you all the while. You are situated now so that you can live easy as you choose, and you must for you have worked hard long enough. Ursula wanted to know about my clothes. I have plenty of al1 kinds . I guess the draft will come pretty close in Worcester. I see the quota is over 50 including exempt cases which is calculated at one-third. I hope they will be sent down to help fill the 121st. I would like the fun of drilling some of them. Delavan Camp 121st N.Y. Vols September 21, 1863 Father, Since my last, we have made a short advance toward Richmond again. Our Corps lies four miles northeast of Culpepper Court House which place is occupied by our troops. We have cavalry skirmishes occasionally below Culpepper, nothing of importance however as the rebel army has crossed the Rapidan. There are quite a number of guerrillas in our rear. They were striking along our flanks on our march from New Baltimore occasionally gobbling a settler's cart or a straggler from our ranks. Before we left that place they became quite bold, our brigade being somewhat isolated from the rest of the corps, and actually made a raid one night in our camp for the purpose of capturing Gen. Bartlett whose headquarters were near the picket line. Fifteen or twenty of the boldest reached the yard he was in and fired a number of shots at the line of tents occupied by himself and staff without injuring either however. They dared not dismount to get over the fence or I guess the General would have been taken. As it was they, after firing a volley, seized the brigade flag which was beside the fence and left. We were under arms in ten minutes and on our way for the scene of action, but the guerrillas do not fancy fighting when no booty is to be gained and as I said before took our flag and left. The county was scoured for miles the next day but nothing but harmless citizens were found. A good many think these harmless citizens by day are all guerrillas at night. We started for this place last monday, stayed at Warrenton all night, and the next day until all the stores were removed to Warrenton Junction. Then we marched to Sulphur Springs where we remained till Wednesday morning when we came through. The 3rd Corps lies joining' ours on the Culpepper road. I visited their camp as soon as possible to find out what had become of Jerome and was very glad to learn that he had escaped alive and unharmed from the storm of iron hail to which the corps was exposed when the gallant Sickles lost a leg and many of his brave band fell to rise no more. Jerome is at home having been sent for conscripts about the first of August. One of the members of his regiment told me he had married while there. The draft I see has been enforced at last in the State of New York. I saw a list of those drafted yesterday. Harm (?) and John luckily escaped. I guess Alexander Bates and Bury (?) will be a little sort of change after paying their $300 as well as a good many others that will not come down and face the music. The weather is quite cool since the torrential (?) storm. I was on picket yesterday and day before our line faced the Blue Ridge Mountains and is about 3 miles from them. Had plenty of peaches, green corn, etc. The army has been paid off again this week. I send you a check for what I do not need. Write soon. Delavan Camp 121st N.Y. Vols October 15, 1863 Father, Since my last letter we have changed our position again. I believe I wrote from Stone House Mountain above Culpepper. Well, on the 5th of this month we relieved the 2nd Corps on the Rapidan River taking the front. Our camp was near Slaughter Mountain where Jackson fought with Banks in the fall of '62. The rebs were very friendly changing papers and other things on the picket line with us. Bill Bruce played several games of eucher (?) with one of them, meeting between the lines. The 2nd Corps had lots of conscripts, many of whom deserted to the enemy and one of them shot his captain before leaving, having got mad at him for something. I suppose you know the 11th and 12th Corps have gone to reinforce Rosecrans. The enemy learning this crossed the river on the 10th and endeavored to turn our right flank. We fell back to Rappahannock Station on the Alexandria railroad and offered them battle, marching back to Brandy Station to meet them on the 11th. Instead of accepting, they preferred flanking us again and started for the Bull Run Mountains via Warrenton. Not choosing to let them have everything their way we packed up and started for Bull Run also and by pretty fast marching reached the plains of Manassas about two hours before they did. The 3rd and 5th Corps here checked their advance while the 6th, 1st and 2nd took up a position at Centreville. This point was reached last night. At dusk the firing in front ceased and we were moved out toward Chantilly 30 miles where we now are. Everything is quiet this morning and as the rebs were foiled in their plans to flank us and we have a very strong position, I think it very doubtful about having a battle. On this march we have passed over the most beautiful part of Virginia I have seen. It is with few exceptions one continuous plain from the Rapidan to Manassas Junction. The whole army moved together. Columns of infantry, artillery, ambulances, pontoons and wagon trains going side by side. It was a grand sight. At one point we saw the whole wagon train of the army. It covered 300 acres. I received your letter when we were at Slaughter Mountain. Also have received three papers from you and two or three from Ellen. Wood takes a very unwise course and I am afraid will do the party more harm than good. All the peace policy that can be followed is to let the rebs know that we are fighting for the constitution and the enforcement of the laws and that they are welcome to return with all their former rights and privileges at anytime they choose. But until they do that we have nothing to offer but steel and lead. Politics are but little discussed in the army. The McClellan testimonial met with a hearty approval in most of the regiment and if viewed in a political light as an expression of the army it showed a vast majority in favor of McClellan. The authorities at Washington, as you are no doubt aware, for this reason suppressed it. Tell Ursula I have heard nothing from Josephus Bates. I think the 7th N.Y. must be mustered out of the service as all the regiments up to the 38th were two year men. I think I wrote you before that Jerome was well and home after conscripts. The money I sent home dispose of as you think best. In such a way, however as it can be obtained readily. A good mortgage would answer as they can be sold most any time. Tell Valetta and Valerie they are improving in writing finely, as well as in geography and arithmetic. Page -2- Letter of: October 15, 1863 They can use any of my books as much as they choose. If they went to the fair they must write what they see while there. I hear this morning it was the 2nd Corps who repulsed the rebs last night at Manassas Junction. 12 o'clock and nothing stirring yet, if we do have a fight I will write immediately after. Yours, Delavan Camp 121st Vols. October 30, 1863 Father, We still remain near Warrenton. Nothing of interest is going on in front, but in our rear the guerrillas as usual are very busy. Day before yesterday they captured a train of 20 wagons and 120 mules above New Baltimore. We have things arranged very comfortable where we are and I hope we shall stay some time. Capt. Kidder bought a small stove in the village a few days ago for five dollars which makes a decided difference in our tent these cold nights. There are 738 enlisted men in the regiment and 34 officers. There are, however, 250 men absent, sick, wounded, on detached service and leaving only 478 present for duty. These figures of course include the 245 who were transferred to our regiment from the 16th, 18th, and 32nd N.Y. Vols on the mustering out of those regiments. These 245 having been recruited after their regiments were organized their time is not out yet. Our Company has 49 men present and 14 absent, sick or on detached service. There has been 30 transferred into the Company since its organization. There has been 20 discharged for disability arising from sickness and wounds, 10 killed, 9 died with disease, 3 transferred out of the Company, and 16 deserted. So you see bullets are not the only agents by which an army is reduced. The 152nd N.Y. has been sent to the front. You remember it was raised after the 121st in the same district and have always been doing guard duty in Washington, New York and other places since its organization. It was put in the 2nd Corps and the boys find it different business from laying around in the city. I send you a photograph of Capt. Kidder also a badge of the 1st Division, 6th Corps worn by the soldiers on their caps to show where they belong. There is an execution in the 2nd Corps this afternoon of a deserter. He dug his own grave this forenoon. Took it very cool. Charles Wilsey has been transferred to the invalid corps. 'He made as good a soldier as we had in the Company even if he was small. Always kept up and was willing and ready to do his duty. In the fight also he never dodged or hung back. George Parsons also was brave as steel, marching boldly forward until he fell pierced with 4 bullets I think. He has been discharged. The boys here are well as usual. I have received no papers lately. If you are taking any beside the Journal send one occasionally. If you have no good opportunity of disposing of that money otherwise invest it in U.S. 5 + 20 bonds. I think they will be perfectly safe. Yours, Delavan Rappahannock Station November 8, 1863 Father, Once more the 121st has met the enemy and Salem Heights is avenged. The 5th Maine , 6th Maine and our regiment charged on a line of earthwork along the east side of the Rappahannock last night, after having marched from Warrenton, and carried everything at the point of the bayonet. We captured a battery and six whole regiments of rebs. The 121st N.Y. alone took 3 coroners, 2 majors, 17 captains, 27 lieutenants and 4 colours with a loss of 4 killed and 23 wounded only. Company I lost one killed, Asbel Sain out of Worcester, as brave a soldier as ever carried a gun, and one wounded, Stone from Morris. I took myself two swords and from officers who surrendered to me a revolver. Silas Waterman took a stand of colours, Capt. Kidder took 3 swords. Every man marched up to the breastworks as cool and determined as if they were made of steel. There are no rebs in sight on the other side of the river this morning. We shall cross soon. I think there will be no more fighting this side of the Rapidan. General Sedgwick commands Corps 5th and 6th, General Wright the 6th, General Bartlett a division in the 5th, Coronel Upton our Brigade. He led us to the charge last night with one of his aides, Capt. Wilson. All say that for the numbers engaged it was one of the most brilliant feats of the war. The mail is going I must close. Delavan Camp 121st N.Y. Vols. December 5, 1863 Father, Your letter of the 22nd and Ursula's of the 21st of November are just received, this being the first mail we have had since we started for the South side of the Rapidan. I wrote Ursula an account of our trip. We are back on the old camp ground above Brandy Station again. We are all well and very thankful that all returned alive from the late expedition. When we lay in line of battle on the morning of November 30th waiting the signal from the left to charge the hill in front of us I expected but few of the 121st would ever recross the river. We were in the first line and the flames of hell itself could scarcely be compared to what we would have had to pass through. An open plain raked with artillery and a deep creek. A heavy piece of woods with trees felled in every direction and then a line of rifle pits filled with men as brave as steel. It would have been murder to have undertaken it and General Meade has shown himself to be a general in deed in daring not to fight notwithstanding imperative orders from Washington that he must. It would have been but a repetition of Fredericksburg and Chancellorsville to have attacked the reb position. I wish you to send me a box by express as soon as convenient containing a dark blue sack coat with brass buttons, worth 6 or 8 dollars, lined for cool weather. I think your size would fit me. A vest, any kind will answer. A pair of calf boots no. 7 some that will fit you with light heel and toe plates, half double soled and then tapped. One pair of woolen and one pair cotton socks. One pair light buckskin gloves. One silk pocket handkerchief. 8 or 10 pounds of butter packed in a tin pail with a cover. 2 pounds of 8 penny nails, a paper of 10 oz. tacks, and put in apples both green and dried and such other' edibles such as we don't get here that will keep three or four weeks without spoiling to fill a box about 2 feet by 18 inches and a foot deep. Have it bound with hoop iron and send by Harndens Express to: Lieut. D. Bates 121st N.Y. Vols. 2nd Brigade, lst Division, 6th Corps Army of the Potomac Washington, D.C. Send a bill of the articles you put in with price also express charges. I do not think of anything else I shall need this month. Write as soon as you send it. Yours, Delavan P.S. Dispose of that money as you think best. Washington, February 20, 1864 Father, I am in Washington for ten days. My leave was so short I concluded not to come home. I have received pay for November and December and send a check for 100 dollars. I do not need my trunk here any longer and shall send it home by express before I go back. You can have it and the contents also. The weather is pretty cold but no snow. I was in the capitol this fore noon and saw those bronze doors. They are the most beautiful things I ever saw. I went before General Casey's "Nigger Board" yesterday and was examined. They make recommendations to the War Department for officers for the colored troops. They recommended me for a second class Lieutenant Colonel so if they get niggers enough and don't have enough first class Lt. Colonels I shall get a leaf on my shoulder instead of bars. I don't put any dependence on getting the position though and don't care a great deal. I went before it more to see what I did know than anything else. Capt. Kidder is home recruiting and will call on you before he comes back. Help him as much as you can about getting recruits. Write as soon as you receive this and also when my trunk arrives directing as before to the 121st New York Volunteers as I shall be back in camp before an answer would reach me. I guess though you need not write until the 25th of the month even if you get this before for I shall not leave here till the 27th. Delavan Bates Camp of 121st N.Y. Vols March 11, 1864 Mother, I just received Father's last letter containing your and his photographs. They look very natural and I am so glad you sent them. Have the girls taken now, the first chance you get for me. I am glad the trunk got through safe. I intended that Bible for you, but forgot to write my name in it. Father's overcoat you must line with flannel and put in some decent pockets. I put the ones in that are in now, last winter. That pistol will kill a man at 250 yards with one of the cartridges I sent with Bruce. Father asks if I am promoted. No, only recommended by General Casey for promotion in the colored troops. If they raise niggers enough I shall be however. It is abut 8 o'clock in the evening now and I am alone in my tent writing. It is raining hard outside and there is some thunder. Your pictures make me think of home and I almost imagine I see you sitting by the stand sewing or knitting and the children on the other side reading the last paper or some interesting book. Father of course has gone to bed. I shall go in about an hour and thank heaven I have some good dry blankets to get in between and a nice dry tent to stay inside tonight. It is something like the night we spent last July crossing the Catoctun Mountains in Maryland. It was after the fight at Gettysburg. We started from near Fairfield, Pa. on the 6th just before dark. Marched all night, rested about an hour the morning of the 7th at Emmittsburgh, Md. Then started again for Middleton which place we intended to reach that night as we were entirely out of rations, some of the men only having two crackers-for breakfast. Just at dusk we reached the foot of the mountains, and took a wood road that led over. We had to wait about an hour for the artillery to pass. It commenced raining. Was dark as pitch, mud from 6 to 9 inches deep. Two creeks to cross, water knee deep and no bridges. The men tired completely out, commenced falling out by the side of the road and laying down. It was an awful time for those who kept up, tramp, tramp, tramp through the mud. Slipping down, tumbling over rocks and running against one another. Between 12 and 1 at night about a dozen of our regiment with the Coronel reached the top of the mountain. Capt. Kidder, myself and two men was all that was left of Company I. The rest strung along by the side of the road from the foot of the mountain, tired out, had laid down to rest. At the top, the rest of us stopped and spread out our blankets under the nearest tree and thanked God that we were permitted once more to rest. The next morning we waited near where we rested until about 200 of the regiment came up, and then marched down to Middleton where we found rations awaiting us. I hope we never shall see such a night again or such marching. Do you wonder that I was completely worn out when we got back in Virginia and had to go to the hospital? I only wonder that I lived through it at all. I sent a piece of our flag that has been through Crampton Pass, lst to 2nd Fredericksburgh, Salem Heights, Gettysburg, Rappahannock Station, and Mine run (?). Tell the children to write soon. Delavan Bates Washington, D.C. March 17, 1864 Father, My highest anticipations are more than realized. I have received an appointment as Colonel of the 30th U.S. Colored Troops. I have accepted the appointment and now if I fail it will be nobody's fault but my own. I shall remain here until my resignation as Lieutenant in the 121st New York Volunteers is accepted, which will be perhaps a day or two and then proceed to Baltimore where I am ordered to report. I do not know anything about the condition of the regiment I am to command. If I can obtain a leave of absence for a few days I shall come home. But it is very doubtful as Major Foster, Chief of the Colored Bearers (?) told me that my presence with the Regiment was needed immediately, so you need not look for me. Tell Ellen I received her last letter and will reply as soon as I get settled somewhere. I have obtained my position by the examination I passed before General Casey's board. I understood at the time it was to be Lieut. Colonel but it is a first class colonelcy. All the outside influence I had was a recommendation from the officers in the 121st in regard to my military history and moral character, which is necessary for anyone to have that goes before the board. I send the children some photographs for their album. You need not write until you hear from me again. Delavan Baltimore, Maryland March 31, 1864 Father, I arrived at this place safe last night. Found everything in good order and think I shall have no difficulty. I had a pleasant ride down. Am very glad I did not try to fetch a horse as our Sutler is a good judge and will buy one for me. The darkeys look well and take a great deal of pride in their new profession. Direct all letters to D. Bates Col 30th U.S.C.T. Baltimore, Maryland April 10, 1864 Baltimore, Maryland Father, Everything still goes on well. I of course make a mistake once and a while but nothing of consequence. I think we shall remain here sometime as the president has ordered that so many colored soldiers be turned into sailors. We first had orders that the whole regiment would be turned into the navy, but now I shall only furnish between 200 and 300 and then fill up again with recruits. I have received the balance of my pay and send you a check for $200. Write as soon as you receive it. D. Bates Camp 30th U.S.C.T. May 16, 1864 Chancellorsville, Virginia Father, I suppose you are all looking with anxious eyes for news from the colored division to hear how they have fared during the terrific battle that has been raging for the past ten days. Although with the army of the Potomac, we have not yet been actively engaged in the fight, but have been and are at the present time guarding the supply trains of the army, a duty that relieves just so many veterans and gives them an opportunity of assisting in front. We left Manassas Junction May 4th, crossed the 6th corps and being hard pressed Gen. Sedgewick ordered us to the front, but Gen. Grant himself countermanded the order and assigned us to our present duty. The fight has been on awful one, both armies fight with desperation. The Rebs have been forced back to Spotsylvania Court House. There have been two days incessant fighting there without any definite result. We have. taken 31 pieces of artillery and about 10,000 prisoners and lost between 30,000 and 40,000 killed, wounded and missing as near as I can learn. The 121st N.Y. Vols is entirely used up, having only 4 officers unhurt. Col. Olcott is wounded and missing. Capts. Kidder, Cronkhite, Paine, Gordon are wounded. Capts. Fish and Butts with Lieuts. Pierce and Foot were killed. Major Galpin wounded, Col. Upton lost a horse but escaped unhurt. I have heard no particulars about the enlisted men, with the exception that there are only 70 left for duty. We were up all last night expecting a raid from Stuart's cavalry but none came around. Our cavalry is in the rear of Lee's army destroying all they can. We are encamped about 1/4 of a mile from the Chancellorsville house, the ground is covered with the bones of last year's dead. The colored troops stand everything well that we have had to go through yet. How they will fight remains to be seen. We have no mail communication yet and I do not know when this will reach you but shall send it the first opportunity. I wish you would send to Cooperstown the first chance you have and have the journal directed after this to D. Bates Col. U.S.C.T. 4th Division, 9th Corps Washington, D.C. If the time is out for which I subscribed, please hand them a couple of dollars more. Everything in the regiment goes on well. Tell Sloan that I have made Davidson adjuntant. He is all right and makes a good officer. Page -2- Letter of: May 16, 1864 Col. Sigfried is commanding our Brigade. He is an experienced officer having had command of a white Brigade about a year. I had command until he came but was glad enough to be relieved from the responsibility. I forgot to mention that the colored troops were in two Brigades. The first is comprised of the 30th, 39th, 43rd U.S. and the 27th Ohio. The second of the 19th and 23rd U.S. and 30th Connecticut with Col. Thomas commanding. I have missed a bloody time by joining the colored troops but don't know how it will turn out. We may have our turn before it is through yet, but can't fare worse than the 121st did, whatever comes. However, I am willing to accept. Write often. D. Bates Headquarters, 30th U.S.C.T. May 26, 1864 Near Mattapany (?) River, Virginia Father, I have written several times since we crossed the Rapidan but have heard that the mail goes no farther than Washington at present and as I have now an opportunity of sending a letter through I write again. The colored division is yet engaged guarding the supply trains of the army. We follow immediately in the rear of the main army, have but little opportunity for drilling but improve every chance. I find no difficulty so far and am well pleased with my situation. We have been under arms several times expecting an attack from rebel cavalry that are watching every opportunity for a raid. The 23rd had a man or two wounded. The men were always cool and I think would have fought well had we been seriously attacked. Our advance is at Hanover Junction, but little firing is heard today. My horse goes well. I do not intend trying another as I have a good mule to carry rations, and I think I was very fortunate in getting my position when I did, escaping at least one bloody field where the 121st N.Y. Vols were cut up very bad. Col. Upton has got a star, however, by it. Our turn I expect will come next though, and when it does we are ready to take our chances. The report from the front is that everything is going well and that Richmond must fall before this campaign closes. Delavan Bates Camp 30th U.S.C.T. June 27, 1864 Near Petersburg, Virginia Father, Everything remains as usual with the colored troops. Of course, you know all about our changing position to the south side of the James and attack on Petersburg. Several lines of works have been taken but as we approach the city we find plenty of other lines to take. I think the day of charging has passed and that we shall take the remainder by regular approaches. In several of the last charges we were repulsed losing many. Our lines extend from the Appomattox on the east of Petersburg around to very near if not quite the same river on the west of the city. The colored division of this corps is acting now as reserve for two whole divisions in front. We were in front last week and shall be again probably next. We have lost but few men yet. Have been in no regular battle, but have been under sharp picket fire, shelling, etc. Are under arms once or twice every night now. The men do well so far. The colored troops in Butler's command took a line of very strong works since we have been here, fighting splendidly. They took no prisoners. My Lt. Col. has returned to his regiment having had poor success trying to raise another so I have plenty of help. It is very warm weather but we manage to get along quite comfortable by erecting arbors of bushes around our tents. Grant, I think, has found the job of taking Richmond a little more extensive than he expected, but such bull dog perseverance as he shows cannot fail to bring success, such a campaign as this never was seen before. Fifty days steady marching or fighting and the end is not yet. Did you get the letter in which I wished you to change the address of the Cooperstown journal? And have you seen Shaw since? I wrote to have you give him a couple of dollars more and change the direction, but I have not received a copy-since I joined this regiment. Tell the children to write soon. D. Bates Camp 30th U.S.C.T. July 16, 1864 Father, Yours of the 6th also a package of journals was received the other night. The journals were very welcome. Their familiar face reminding me of home more than anything I have seen in some time with the exception of your letters. I see another draft is in progress through the north carrying consternation through the hearts of every able bodied man. How glad I am to be safe from the monster. No fears here of conscription. No dreams of Canadian safety, or wishes for a touch of rheumatism, consumption, liver complaints or other diseases upon which a doctor could base a certificate of disability. Of course you know that the theater of active operations has been changing to the District of Columbia and vicinity, leaving us I guess in the safest place as everything is perfectly quiet around Petersburg. Now and then you hear a cannon or a few rifles on the front line but there has been nothing serious for a week or two. The colored troops are at present engaged in building a line of earthworks to protect the left flank and rear of our line. I saw Jerome yesterday. He is in for three years more, his regiment enlisting as veterans. He has been promoted to Captain. You know he went home for conscripts last July. He remained in Michigan until April when he rejoined his regiment. In May he was wounded in the shoulder not very severe, but enough to send him to the hospital about six weeks. The weather is very dry and I have not seen a drop of rain since June 2nd. We have to dig wells to get water enough to drink. Get good water at 6 feet in some places. The 4th passed off quietly. The Sanitary Commission furnished the whole army with a ration of pickles, onions and dried apples for dinner that day. The health of this regiment is very good, mine never was better. I have received but few letters from home lately. Mail communications are very regular now. The only obstructions are between Baltimore and Washington I believe at present. Write often. Delavan Laurens [Laurens was Capt. Kidder's home town], August 11th 1864 Dear Friends, Capt. Kidder is at home very sick unable to sit up. We saw the name of your son among the list of wounded officers that were engaged in the late battle before Petersburg. We are very anxious to hear how he is getting along, and how badly he is wounded. My husband's sickness is caused by a wound in the head that he received at the battle of Spotsylvania May 19th. Please write by return mail. Capt. Kidder sends his respects, hoping your son's wound is not serious. Respectfully yours, Mrs. J. S. Kidder Headquarters, 1st Brigade, 3rd Division, 9th Corps Near Petersburg, October 28, 1864 Father, Yours of the 24th of this month is just received and I reply immediately. I wrote you when I first arrived here and also have written Ursula since. I knew you would be anxious and so I sent a letter the second day but it must have been lost or miscarried. There was no money in it for I did not have the proper papers to obtain my pay from any but the regimental paymaster and he had just taken the cars for Baltimore as I reached Washington. I had a pleasant trip down stopping in New York two days and Washington one and a half. Reached city point on the evening of October 8th. Took the cars and arrived at Hancock Station where I expected to find my regiment, about 8:00 P.M. But the colored troops had moved the day before across the Welden (?) road to near Poplar Groove Church and I hardly knew where to spend the night when by chance I found that Jerome was only a few rods from the station acting as Assistant Adjutant General on Gen. Pierce's staff. I at once started for his quarters and stayed with him all night. He has since been mustered out of the service, his three years having expired. The next day I stayed with Dr. Jackson my regimental surgeon who is in charge of the Division Hospital. On the 1lth of October I joined the regiment and being senior officer had to take command of the Brigade, Col. Sigfried's time having expired he has left the service. I have been in command all the time since but hope I shall be relieved before we get into a fight for I don't care for quite as much responsibility as a person commanding from three to four thousand men has to bear. If everything goes off right why it's very nice but if it don't somebody's got to take the consequences. We have just returned from an expedition which came very near being a big fight but didn't quite. Yesterday morning at 3:00 A.M. the 5th and 9th Corps made an advance toward the Southside railroad. The 2nd Corps taking the extreme left started the night before making quite a detour to avoid the enemy. We had six days rations, the teams with all surplus baggage and extra stores were sent within the entrenchments at city point and as our front lines were to be held by artillery we expected a "big thing". As soon as our advance was discovered however the rebs commenced sending reinforcements from other points and just before night the 2nd Corps found itself in a pretty tight place. I have not heard the particulars but I know that this morning or about noon rather we all came back and the report says the 2nd Corps lost very heavily. The 9th Corps drove the reb skirmishers about a mile when we came on to the main line of works. It not being part of the program to attack unless the 2nd Corps had good success we escaped a fight. The brigade lost one officer and six men killed and six officers and about 50 men wounded. We advanced about half a mile in line of battle through the worst piece of woods I ever saw. The underbrush, briars, logs, etc. made it a part of the way almost impenetrable and when we halted in front of the enemy works a line of breastworks had to be thrown up and the timber slashed to prevent a surprise and be able to resist an attack if the rebs should undertake one. It was an awful Page -2- Letter of: October 28, 1864 job and I guess if I did it once I rode twenty times in front of the Brigade to see that the work was going on right. I tore my coat and pants, and scratched my hide besides running the risk of a great many stray bullets. Two horses belonging to my staff were shot. But fortunately the affair terminated without great loss to our division or corps. I presume Butler attacked on the right the same time we did at the left but I have not heard what he accomplished. As usual when we make a move it rained like fury all night. I got a little wet but feel no effects from it yet. My head gives me no trouble. I can eat very well and think I shall remain in the service a spell longer. So many officers have been mustered out this month that have been in three years, it takes a very strong case to get a resignation through. The weather today is pleasant. The nights are quite chilly but not half as cold as you had when I was home. There has been one very slight frost since I returned and the forest leaves are just beginning to turn. Write often. Delavan Headquarters, 1st Brigade, 3rd Division, 9th Corps Near Peebles House November 6, 1864 Father, It is Sunday evening and as I have nothing to do of any consequence I thought I would write home. I know how anxious you feel on my account and if nothing happens I will write every Sunday keeping you informed in regard to my health. I wish you or the children would write as often for I do not receive any news from you half as often as I would like to. Since the last move for the Southside Road, this army has quietly settled down in its' old position and everyone is fixing up for winter, building fireplaces, logging up tents, building stables, and preparing for cold weather as much as possible. We have no orders to prepare winter quarters but there are many little things in the management of the army that make it look like we are staying where we are for some time. The weather is pleasant most of the time. Once in a while a cold rain prevails for a day or two. The nights are quite cold and last night a slight frost made its appearance. I was up about midnight, being awakened by a tremendous cannonading interspersed with volleys of musketry. I thought first it was near but on arising I found it was at least two miles distant and today learned that the Second Corps pickets were attacked last night at 11:40 pm. Twenty posts were captured and the rebs held the line till early this morning when they were driven back with the loss of one officer and forty men. A rather small affair for so much noise. I had a brigade dress parade at half past four this afternoon and found my voice all right, making fifteen hundred men hear with ease. This is the first time I have tried to give a command vocally since my return. I found I could make more noise than I expected. The colored division has been reorganized, another brigade having been formed by taking one regiment from the first and two from the Second, leaving three regiments in each. Each brigade is commanded by the senior colored in it, which gives me the command of one Col. Thomas and one Col. Russell. I don't fancy the position much as it increases the responsibility, expense and everything else excepting pay. There is a rumor afloat now that we are to be sent to Butler's department before long so that all of the "American citizens of African descent" in these parts be together. I like the plan decidedly for if Butler gives them a chance to fight often, he also gives them their due when they accomplish anything. Butler I hear has been sent to New York to keep things straight through election. A brigade of regulars also left for that place last week. I am afraid there will be trouble through the north before peace is again established, but hoping not and that I may live to see the union fully restored and moving on happy and prosperous as formerly. I remain as ever, Your son, Delavan Headquarters 1st Brigade, 3rd Division, 9th Corps Near Peebles House November 13, 1864 Father, Another week has passed and I again find myself writing home. How fast time passes now. It hardly seems a week since I started from home and yet when I count back I find that six sabbaths have come and gone since then. Election was then in the future and every one was anxious to assist in determining the result. Now it is an event of the past. Lincoln is re-elected and whatever policy he may pursue we have nothing to do but acquiesce to it for four years more. The soldiers, as I told you, gave a large vote for him. The question as discussed here was taken in a very different light from what you had it North. Here it was union or disunion. There you had it union and peace with slavery or an abolition war ending no one knew when without slavery. Most of those who voted for McClellan were recruits just arrived with home opinions strongly impressed upon their minds. Nothing of importance has transpired here during the past week nor will until we receive more men. I hear that many thousand of the last call remained north until election was over. If so, perhaps we shall have enough when they arrive to do something. If not three hundred thousand more may expect an invitation before next April to visit the theater of war. Sherman is again on the move. Results that will tell with force on the rebellion are expected from his department. Three brigades of the enemy were seen moving around our left toward the Weldon road a day or two ago. Very likely they are going South to assist in defeating Sherman's plans, but it will take more men than Lee can spare to overcome the five corps that Sherman has. A deserter came in yesterday from the rebs who said that the rebel army was going into winter quarters as soon as a few more fortifications were finished. Many of our new recruits have deserted lately. Obtaining large bounties was all many enlisted for. As soon as they arrive they begin planning means of escape and as no other feasible method presents itself they desert to the enemy, running the risk of getting through to Mexico or Halifax. Colonel Oakman returned tonight. I am very glad he has come for the regiment has but few officers present for duty. Adjutant Davidson is present all right. He is one of the best officers I have, understands his duty well and has not been absent a day since we left Baltimore. The troops are drilling when the weather permits about five hours a day and are improving very fast. My health continues good, I have a good floor in my tent, and a chimney which makes everything very comfortable. The weather today is quite chilly so that a fire is required to keep comfortable. The paymaster has not been around since my return, perhaps will not be until January although he may the last of this month. I just received a letter from Angeline Bates. She writes that William and Alexander were both drafted, lucky for them that they enlisted when they did. Write soon. D. Bates Headquarters, lst Brigade, 3rd Division, 9th Corps Near Peebles House, Virginia November 20, 1864 Father, All quiet in front of Petersburg, the morning papers report and truly too for I have not heard a rebel gun during the past week. There is however a little excitement in the colored division on account of the rumor that General Meade had agreed with General Butler to trade us off for white troops, which has obtained general credence as two regiments of the third brigade left night before last with orders to report at Point of rocks. The remaining regiments will doubtless go in a few days, and I am glad of it for I have always thought the colored troops ought to be placed together, and under Butler there is no doubt but that they will have credit for all they do. Gen. Burnside paid the corps a flying visit a few days ago arriving at night and leaving the next morning. I have not heard what his business was but presume it was to consult his old division commander as to whether they would like to accompany him on an expedition which I hear he is to command. It is raining today not very fast but a steady disagreeable drizzling rain that makes one feel very thankful that he has a good shelter over his head and a good fire to sit by. The weather is not very cold. We have had a few slight frosts this month. I have a good brick chimney and fireplace in the side of my tent. The brick came from the ruins of somebody's mansion that once stood near our camp. The inhabitants left just before we came and in a short time everything that could be used to increase the comforts of camp life was appropriated. The timber in this section is mostly second growth pine and as it is full of pitch burns very readily. Adjutant Davidson left for home this morning on a fifteen days leave. If you are out to Cooperstown or Cherry Valley this week perhaps you may meet him. I have not heard from Ellen since my return. Please mention in your next letter how she is getting along and also send me a few stamps. Yours as ever, D. Bates November 27, 1864 Headquarters, lst Brigade, Ferraro's Division, Defenses of Bermuda Hundred. Mother, Your letter with the children's was received a few nights ago and a welcome messenger it was I assure you. It hardly seems like Sunday today we have been so busy. The long expected move to Butler's department took place yesterday. Camp was broken early in the morning and night found us on the north side of the Appomattox River near Port Walthal. This morning we took our position in the front line of works and are now fixing up and preparing for cold weather again. The rebel line is a quarter of a mile in front of ours. The pickets are very peaceable, not firing at each other very often. At one point, however, the Rebs made all mounted officers dismount and go past on foot by hollering out, "Get off that horse or we will fire on you" when any one approaches on horseback. We are near a very high lookout station from which can be seen Petersburg, the line of railroad to Richmond, and any number of rebel works. The Rebs don't appear to be discouraged on account of Lincoln's election but profess their willingness to fight another four years. I guess, however, before another year has passed they will be fully satisfied. I am feeling well as usual and will write to the children next Sunday. Direct your letters until you hear further to the above address. Delavan Headquarters Detachment, lst Divison, 25th Corps Chaffins Farm, Virginia December 25, 1864 Father, After a hearty Christmas dinner of turkey, beef, mutton, almonds, raisins, etc. which our sutler was thoughtful enough to bring down with his last lot of goods, I feel so dull and lazy I hardly know what to write and if I had not promised to write every Sunday I believe I should not think of trying. I do believe that I am forgetting all I ever knew for I can think of nothing to write and when I can I have no words to express my thoughts. But to commence something or other I will say that I received your letter of the 16th of December with stamps and I am very thankful to hear that you are all well amidst the many cases of fever around you and fervently hope that the same good fortune may be with you many years. You wish to know about where I am, if you will take the map and trace the James River down from Richmond about nine miles and then turn square to the left ascend the bluff and cross the plain in a northerly direction about one mile and you are right here. If Chapins (or Chaffins) bluff is down on the map, that's the place. Dutch Gap is- perhaps one and a half miles southeast. We hear nothing definite from the expedition yet, but a rumor from a reb deserter is in circulation to the effect that they had taken Fort Fisher near Wilmington, N.C. The eighth and nineteenth corps are arriving daily and I presume when our troops on the expedition obtain a foothold we shall join them and the white troops will take our place. I don't see what hopes the South can have to make them resist another summer. Hood defeated, Georgia overrun, Lee's army fully occupied at this place, and three hundred thousand fresh troops to be in the field against them in the spring. They must give up soon. Deserters coming in say that the Georgia troops are very much dissatisfied, saying that if Lee will not defend their state, they will not fight much longer for Virginia. And bye the bye there is a rumor just in to the effect that Jeff Davis is on his deathbed, but that has been told by deserters so many times to gain favors that no one believes it now. So like the "boy and the wolf" if it is true it does us no good. My health remains first rate and I can just put my thumb in my mouth flatways so you see my jaw as improved materially since I left home and hoping I may see this affair through and be with you safe at home once more. I remain as ever, Delavan Headquarters Detachment, 3rd Division, 25th Corps Chaffins Farm, Virginia January 8, 1865 Father, I have just received that truly home letter of the first instance. If Ursula had only written a few lines the whole family would have been represented individually. Tell the children I was very much obliged for their kind wishes but as for the "happy new year" it didn't come this way. The expedition from Wilmington had just returned and everything was in confusion. The men all hard at work fixing up tents to keep warm and dry, they had but little time for the scanty enjoyment afforded here and by the by I guess it will not be contraband to say that all those troops that went before started again last Tuesday for the same place, Wilmington. It was mighty rough for the poor fellows. They had been for twenty days on board transports and now to go again without having had time to clean up a particle was asking most too much. They started off however with scarecely a murmur and I do hope they will be successful this time. On account of some dissatisfaction between the commanding generals, the number of the divisions have been changed in this corps. Gen. Paine although junior officer was assigned to the 1st division and Gen. Wilde to the 3rd and to make things smooth the 1st is now called the 3rd and the 3rd the 1st which will explain why I am in command of a detachment of the 3rd instead of the 1st as I was before. My appointment came from the President. It is Brigadier General of Volunteers by Brevet and to make it lasting will require the confirmation of the Senate. As you say the honor is about all it amounts to although when assigned to duty as a Brevet Brigadier General it is just as good as a full Brigadier General except the pay and that used to be the same but a late law spoiled all that. Colonel's pay, however, does very well or would if it was not for the awful taxes. I have to pay over one hundred dollars a year and I don't want you to pay a cent on what I send home. I received my pay yesterday and send you a check for $1,400 dollars. Use it to the best advantage you can, so that it will be safe, until I come. I want you to write as soon as you receive this that I may know it has gone through safely. Del. Bates Headquarters Detachment, 3rd Division, 25th Corps January 15, 1865 Father, I presume you have learned from the papers before this, that we have a new department commander, Gen. Butler left the day I wrote you last. Everybody is well pleased for old Ben was not liked first rate. Gen. Ovel (?) is in command now, he is a good corps commander but I don't know whether he is capable of running an army. We are hoping that Sheridan will be assigned to this department. If he is, I don't think his time will be spent in digging Dutch Gap canals, and come to think I guess I have never mentioned the fact that New Year's day the end was blown out of Butler's canal. It made but little noise and the dirt all fell back so it is of no consequence. We did not hear of it until a week after and the Rebs are so disgusted with the closing performance that they have not fired a shot since in that direction. Not a word has been heard from the last expedition yet. Some think it went to Savannah to garrison the city so that Sherman could take all his forces when he makes his next move but I think Wilmington has heard from them on this. Deserters are coming in now and then, I saw twelve pass this place during the past week. Stout hearty looking fellows and wore good clothes. Some were from Georgia. "Gen. Lee can't make us fight for Virginia when he allows the Yanks to run all over Georgia" one of them remarked. They said that preparations were being made in Richmond to move the machinery that was used for making arms back into the interior near Danville. I received a letter last night from Alexander Bates. His regiment is near Bermuda Hundreds (?). Came down from the Shenandoah Valley on New Year's. He is the only one I have heard from of that number that enlisted while I was home. He doesn't like the business very well. How does the last call for three hundred thousand affect the North! Are you raising such large bounties as before or will you wait and let the draft fetch out the quota? The army is in perfect rapture over the call and think old Abe is really in earnest now. Have Warren and Jeff returned yet? If they have, they will be just in time. I have been about sick for a few days. Neuralgia in my face. One side was swollen so that I could not see from the eye on that side. It is getting better, however, today and by next Sunday shall doubtless be as well as ever. This is the first time I have been off duty a day since my return. If you can't get a good mortgage for that money I sent last week, you can buy 7 x 30 or 10 x 40 bonds. I guess there is no doubt but they will be redeemed in time. If you can use it to good advantage, I think I can send 400 or 500 more by the first of April. Del. Bates Headquarters Detachment, 3rd Division, 25th Corps January 18, 1865 Father, Yours of the 13th is just received. It is evening. The drums are just beating for evening roll call, and I sit down to reply to your welcome letter. The money you will have to use your own discretion about, for I know nothing about financial affairs in New York, and in fact precious little about my own affairs in the future. I know I am in the army now alive and well. I may be next week, next month, next year, and perhaps I may be occupying six feet by two of Virginia soil at either of those periods. This business is mighty uncertain. Now you are here and now you are not. Now you see it and now you don't. Now you are in this world and now you are in the next. No man can tell what a day may bring forth and hardly an hour. At ten o'clock this morning I was riding along our picket line, being officer of the day. Two hundred yards in front, and in front of Fort Burnham not over one hundred and twenty five yards, the rebs were leisurely walking their beats, guns on their shoulders occasionally glancing toward our line and no doubt aching to break the quiet that has long prevailed on this line by firing at that "Nigger Officer". If they had, good bye to all plans for the future if I had any. To be sure, it was not absolutely necessary to go there, but others do, and not to go looks rather cowardly in one whose profession is to shoot and get shot at. And so, my life often hanging upon the slender thread of a rebel's good faith or the uncertainties of a battlefield, I have selected no calling for the future. I may remain in the service until next August, for I really don't want to give it up until the old regiment, the 121st, is mustered out for I promised the boys to stay just as long as any of them when I came out. But about the money, I will give you a slight idea of what I would desire. If everything was favorable so that you could invest in that way, I would like to have papers that can be turned into money at six or eight months notice. I think a mortgage would do with the last payment due in three or even five years. It could be sold I guess most any time if actually necessary. Government bonds I think are pretty good. I don't suppose you think very highly of them, but they have got to stand unless the government itself goes to the devil which occurrence I am not expecting. But I leave it all to you. Do as you think best. And now for mother's question: Do I wear a star? I do at present. If the Senate confirms the appointment I shall very likely continue to. If not I shall don the eagles again. I am now both Col. and Brevet Brigadier General or as the appointment reads Brigadier General of Volunteers by Brevet. I can wear the uniform of a Brigadier General or of a Colonel as I choose. Letters you can address to Delavan Bates, Col. 30th U.S.C.T. 3rd Division, 25th Corps, Washington, D.C. Either would reach me and either would be correct. All military communications I receive are addressed to me as Bvt. Brig. Gen. Bates. It is immaterial to me what they say on the outside if I only get the letters. I am slightly deaf yet in one ear. My face swells when I take cold but I am half inclined to think it is as much caused by a decayed tooth as by the wound as an ulcer generally closes up the performance. Page -2- Letter of: January 18, 1865 As for news there is not enough in the Department to swear by. Fort Fisher was taken by the expedition, of course you know, on the 15th of this month with 1,OOO prisoners reported captured. This entirely destroys the value of Wilmington as a blockade running post--and one more stone knocked from the support of the fast falling Confederacy. It must come down with a crash before long. And what a grand rejoicing there will be when that hour comes. Last night I took up the Herald and the first paragraph that caught my eye was "Edward Everett Obituary". The mail came and with it the journal. I opened that and the first thing I saw was James A. Waters, dead. How forcibly it brought to my mind "The old must die, the young may die." And it really affected me more than to have seen a dozen men shot. Especially James' death. So young and robust and apparently long lived, and in no dangerous vocation. It must have been hard for Mrs. Waters. She would never hear a word of his enlisting and now he is taken by the unsparing fever. I don't know but I have chosen the path of safety after all. Delavan Headquarters Detachment, 3rd Division, 25th Army Corps Chaffins Farm, Virginia January 29, 1865 Father, The past week although bringing forth no great results has not been devoid of interest. Monday night a fleet of rebel iron clads came puffing and snorting down the river and at the same time the rebel skirmishers advanced on our lines on the south of the James, called the Bermuda front. A cavalry force was also reported on our extreme right on the Charles City road. Their intention was at once apparent. The capture of our batteries on the south bank of the river, the iron clads then pushing down to Deep Bottom destroying our shipping on the way, which by the by was only defended by one double turreted monitor (and her captain was so scared when he saw the rams coming down that he at once ran her way down below the pontoon bridge), and then operating with the force on shore they were to turn our right and use the army of the James as they pleased. This was very nicely planned but like many other nice plans of theirs was entirely spoiled by the "blue bellied yanks". They could not break our lines on the Bermuda front and the first thing they knew was one of the iron clads was going up in the air, blown up by a shell from one of our water batteries on the south side of the river. Two others also ran aground. Seeing the land attack had failed and fearing a like result for the other boats they ran back under shelter of the Howlet House battery and there remained until Wednesday morning when just before day they again ran the guantlet of Fort Brady and passed up to a safe harbor nearer Richmond. Fort Brady, however, doesn't amount to much as the rebs have fifteen or twenty guns bearing on it about half or 3/4 of a mile distant, and when they open as they did while the iron clads were passing woe be to the unlucky man that dares to expose himself. The first shot knocked a 100 pounder off its carriage. The next went through the bomb proof killing three men. The next hundred pound shell lodged under an officer's log shanty, exploded and you ought to have seen the splinters fly. Lightning striking a tree is no comparison. No one was in at the time and lucky too for if there had been he would have been sent to heaven cross lots. I don't see how those poor devils in Fort Fisher stood the bombardment so long, fifteen inch shells weighing about 400 pounds falling like hail around through the fort. The shelling of Fort Brady was no comparison and that was perfectly awful. Battery no. 4 is right in front of our camp and during the performance the captain in command thought he would do something smart and so he threw a few solid shot from his little 12 pound smooth bore Napoleon guns down toward the river. The rebs noticed it and sent over half a dozen of those big shells and elevating their pieces a little too high for the battery, the shells all landed right around us. Oh, how the darkies did jaw about the Captain's drawing their fire over this way. "I jes wish one of dem shell would strike in dat battery" they said. I saw a tree one of them hit. It was a tall hemlock about twenty-four inches through. The shell struck it about twenty feet from the ground and took it square off. Imagine such a piece of iron striking a man side of the head. Herricks pills wouldn't save him. Page -2- Letter of: January 25, 1865 Frank Blair Senior passed through our lines Wednesday afternoon from Richmond. He thinks everything is looking favorable. I didn't dare to ask him what old Jeff thought about peace. He had a pass signed by Abraham Lincoln and I shouldn't wonder if he was really on business looking toward a settlement of our difficulties. I received orders yesterday to have everything ready to start for Fort Fisher as soon as transportation could be obtained. So my next letter may be written there and if you do not receive one in a fortnight, don't be alarmed for our mails I presume will not be as regular from that point. We shall very likely start within three or four days. Col. J. H. Holman of the lst U.S.C.T. has returned to duty having been absent wounded since October. He outranks me as colonel about a year and as I have not yet been assigned to duty by the President according to my brevet rank. I suppose when we all get together he will have command of the brigade (the 1st, 30th and 10th regiments compose the lst brigade now). I shall be glad of it for when in command of a brigade my responsibilities are trebled and expenses doubled and not a cent more pay do I get for it all. To be sure there are a few more privileges connected with Brigade headquarters but hardly enough to pay for the increased expense. Col. Holman has been in the service as Lieut.Col. and Col. since 1861. He is a gentleman and well informed. I like him very much. Delavan Bates P.S. - If you don't have a good opportunity to let that money at 7 percent just put it in the bank. It will save you some trouble and perhaps I may want it before the year is out. Headquarters Detachment, 3rd Division, 25th Corps Chaffins Farm, Virginia February 12, 1865 Father, We are yet patiently waiting for transports to arrive upon which we can embark for Fort Fisher. I hear that the vessels have been engaged carrying troops to Sherman, some that come from Gen. Thomas's army to Annapolis by rail. It was considered more important to reinforce Sherman the first thing. I think there is little doubt but that we shall leave this week. I am very glad, however, that we are on land safe and sound today for the wind is blowing a perfect gale out of doors and it must be fearful going round Cape Hatteras in such weather. Nothing of importance has transpired on this side of the river during the past week. On the other side, the Army of the Potomac has made another of its periodical flank movements, with what success I have not yet heard but presume it will turn out as usual a "reconnaisance in force". Of course you have heard all about the peace rumors and Lincoln's coming down to Fortress Monroe to meet Stephens, Hunter and Campbell. I thought surely something of importance would result from such an interview, but as far as I can learn nothing but a more bitter feeling of animosity in Southern minds against the north has come to pass. Deserters say that as soon as the commissioners made their report in Richmond, war meetings were held and resolutions passed stating that Lincoln had insulted them by inviting commissioners and then offering no terms except unconditional submission with such favors as Congress might choose to grant them, and closing up with the determination that every dollar and every man must be used up before such terms would be noticed. I think, however, about one year more of such fighting as last year will change their minds slightly. Oh, the committee on the war have at last made a report about that blowing up affair last July where I got the hole in my head. They lay the failure to Gen. Meade's interfering with or rather changing Gen. Burnside's plans after he had the mine ready, the troops selected and drilled in readiness to take advantage of any chance that might be offered by the explosion. Gen. Grant said he thought if the colored troops had went in as first intended by Burnside the day would have been ours and I have no doubt of it for if we could have got in before the rebs got so many guns bearing on that point we would have been all right. Write often and don't forget to send a few stamps for I shall use the last one on this letter. Our mails all go to Fort Fisher now so I don't expect to hear from you till we get there. Delavan Bates Headquarters, 3rd Division, 25th Corps February 19, 1865 Chaffins Farm, Virginia Father, Not yet embarked, but prospects favorable for going soon. Last Tuesday I sent 1,200 men and this morning a load of horses, baggage, etc. It will take two or three more boats to take what is left. General Ingalls, Chief Quartermaster of the armies operating agai6st Richmond, says the scarcity of boats arises from the blocking up of the Potomac and Delaware Rivers by ice. The 23rd Corps which I supposed was to join Sherman landed at Fort Fisher which gives us a force of about 30,000 to operate against Wilmington on Federal Point. No news during the past week here, but such a spell of muddy, rainy, nasty weather as I do not wish to see again this winter, about half the time the ground is frozen up solid and the other half mud knee deep all over. I shall be glad when we get down where it is summer all the while. I don't like such a mixture as this. Yesterday I saw a specimen of our new 25th Corps badge. For the enlisted men it is simply a square inch of cloth. Red, white or blue according to the number of their division. For officers blue enamel square with gold border and smaller square of gold braid inside for 3rd Division, white for 2nd and red for lst. I was much disappointed with the emblem for besides distinguishing brigades, divisions and corps the badge ought to express some idea. For instance, if it had been a rising sun with a few links of broken chain, it would have been very expressive of the origin of the corps. Perhaps the one selected though is intended to tell that the "darkey" is at last on a "square" with other folks. I shall expect at least a dozen letters when I get down to Fort Fisher for I have not had one in a month. Our mail all goes there now and has for some time. Tell the children to write me a good long letter telling about everything. I send a "Harperís Weekly" and Frank Leslie's newspaper to them with this but perhaps they will not go through as I have no stamps to put on but I must close with hoping my next letter may be mailed at Federal Point. Delavan Fortress Monroe, Virginia February 21, 1865 Father, We are at last on our way to North Carolina. Letters will be about two days later reaching you from our destination as it is 36 hours sail from this point to Fort Fisher. I shall bid adieu to old Virginia without a sigh and am very thankful for the opportunity to leave her desolate acres. I don't know as North Carolina is any better but it will be a change in name if nothing more. I have just received my pay and send you a check--invest in 7 + 30 bonds if you have no better chance. Write as soon as you receive this and also mention how you disposed of the other. I had a letter from Kidder the other day. He is back with his regiment on duty now, returned about the lst of the month. I have no time to write more. Delavan Bates Steamship Daniel Webster Cape Fear River six miles from Wilmington February 24, 1865 Father, Last Monday morning at daylight we left our old camp and proceeded to Bermuda Hundred where we found the ocean steamer Dan Webster waiting for loading for Fort Fisher. At 3 o'clock p.m. the troops were all aboard, and the hold full of baggage. The captain immediately weighed anchor and we went down the river perhaps 50 miles, then stopped until morning. Tuesday at 10 o'clock a.m. found us at Fort Monroe. I went ashore with a number of other officers received my pay, and sent you a check. At 5 O'clock p.m. we put to sea and Wednesday morning 8 o'clock a.m. found us off Cape Hatteras with a smooth sea and pleasant weather. Thursday morning 6:00 a.m. found us abreast of Fort Fisher where we learned that Wilmington was evacuated by the rebs Tuesday night and occupied by our troops Wednesday morning. We also learned that we could not cross the shoals at the harbor entrance until night when the tide was high. I with a few of the officers aboard went ashore, went through Fort Fisher, Fort Buchanan and the Mound Battery, enough labor had been expended on this point, had it been properly directed, to have made it impregnable. Five o'clock p.m. the steamer came and received orders to proceed to Wilmington with her load. So this morning we started up the river and have now reached the line of obstructions sunk by the rebs. We have to wait here a short time for some things or other. The rebel iron clad Chickamaga is sunk just ahead of us. Our troops are 10 miles the other side of Wilmington pursuing the rebels that left the city or were there the last we heard. The colored troops have had several skirmishes. All behaved well. One regiment lost 60 men and a few officers on the skirmish line one day. My regiment has lost two officers killed, and one wounded besides a dozen or so men. 11 o'clock a.m. Thursday. In Wilmington, the boat struck a snag and came very near sinking about 5 miles down stream. She is now on a shoal with several feet of water in her. We remain in the city tonight. Have good quarters in a secesh house. Will write again Sunday. D. Bates Wilmington, North Carolina March 5, 1865 Father, Your letter of February 20th is received. Also one from Ursula of the 17th February finding me all right as usual. On the 2nd of March I moved out to the front at North East Station and the next day the brigade was united again. This morning I received an order to report to Wilmington as member of a court martial assembled for the purpose of trying a colonel of one of the Pennsylvania regiments charged with defrauding soldiers of their bounty money. Arrived in town at 10 o'clock a.m., not enough members being present to form a quorum adjourned until tomorrow morning. The weather since I have been in North Carolina has been very gloomy raining most every day. The rains, however, are very warm, something like your April rains with a June temperature. The face of the country from here to the front is very low and swampy with an occasional sand bank. The forests are all pine and cypress, pine on the sand plains and cypress in the swamps. Turpentine and rosin are the principal articles of produce. The rebs burned a great quantity of rosin just before our army arrived. We have received about nine thousand prisoners at this point during the past week. I saw Captain Paine, one of my old comrades in the 121st N.Y. among them, also three of my lieutenants taken July 30th at the explosion. They stayed all night with me and Capt. Paine said it was the first regular meal of victuals he had eaten in ten months. The men looked horrible, especially the sick. About two hundred negroes taken at Fort Wagner were among the lot. They looked decidedly better than the whites. I guess they stand rough usage better. There is to be a move soon. The 23rd Corps are under marching orders. Those stamps you sent in both letters are received. Delavan Bates Wilmington, N.C. March 12, 1865 Mother, Last sabbath when I wrote I had just arrived in the city as member of a court martial. Today I write just before leaving the city for the front. Our business was completed yesterday and the court adjourned. Today is the first real nice sunny day we have enjoyed since our arrival. I had almost come to the conclusion that the "sunny south" was a humbug but today I can fully appreciate all I ever read of the beauties of a southern climate. It is delightful. Inhabitants say that the spring is backward but with flowers blooming on every side and peach trees in full blossom the middle of March I think it very early. But I presume it is because my earlier impressions of this month were of cold blustering snowy weather. Yesterday morning our scouts from Sherman's army arrived in this city. They left Sherman near Fayetteville. He has had but little fighting thus far. His army is in good condition and capable of managing anything the rebs have in this section. Gen. Schofield with his corps left here last Monday for New Bern and last night we heard he was moving on Goldsboro having taken Kingston. The confederacy will soon be a thing of the past. I have been boarding with Mrs. Marshall during the past week. She is the wife of a pilot who has been engaged on vessels running the blockade. He received three thousand dollars in gold each trip for his services. Just before we came Mrs. Marshall had bought three slaves for 18,000 dollars to get rid of some of her confederate money which she had any quantity of and after we came she sold 16,000 dollars for 200 in greenbacks. The buyer had some debts in the country he wished to pay with it. The higher classes are very secluded, do not fancy the Yankee soldiers much. There is a family of Bates living in the city. Two brothers came from Massachusetts or Connecticut, I forget which, about 25 years ago. I met one of them. His name is Edward. He was not familiar with the names of his northern relatives but mentioned a brother he had north by the name of Lorin and if I am not mistaken I think I have heard Melvin's wife speak of a Bates of that name, a distant relative, and I think she also told me once that some cousins moved south. I wish you would ask her about it some time and write me what she says about it. I think they are distant relatives of our family. I have not heard from home since Ursula's letter of February 17th and as she spoke of your being hurt by a fall I am anxiously waiting the arrival of another letter. Write soon. Delavan Hd. Qrs 1st Brig 3d Div. 25 Corps North East Station, North Carolina March 15, 1865 Once more in the field for good and tomorrow morning on the march up the railroad to Goldsboro. Deserters and contrabands report no enemy of consequence on our route and we expect no fighting until we join Schofield who went up to New Bern last week, and is now working his way slowly toward Goldsboro. My appointment has been confirmed and I am in command of this brigade. Our present camp is on the North East branch of the Cape Fear river just where the Wilmington and Weldon railroad crosses. It is ten miles from the city and the road passes through cypress swamps and over sandy belts of land covered with pines. These pine trees have all been boxed to obtain turpentine. This and rosin were the chief articles of export before the war of this section of country. In the swamp and along the roadside the trees are covered with a species of moss that looks very picturesque. It is dark grey color and sometimes hangs two or three feet from the limbs like drapery. There are plenty of snakes through the swamps in the hot weather. Copperheads and other venomous ones. When the weather is pleasant everything appears beautiful. Today we are having April showers. Last evening I received a very welcome letter from Mother and the children. As we expect to move tomorrow I write today. I am very happy to hear that Mother has recovered from the effects of her fall and earnestly hope she may be blessed with her usual good health for many years to come. I was much pleased with Valetta and Valerie's writing. They have improved materially since their former letter both in composition and chirography [penmenship]. I guess father helped a little, I know he used to help me once in a while when I was a school boy and those horrid compositions were called for. Oh, how I did dread them, my imagination was so dull I could think of nothing to write. Valerie wishes I was in a telegraph office. So do I or somewhere else where I could tell one night where I was to sleep the next, but this job I suppose is to be finished up the first thing and as I am in I might as well stay and see it through and then look out for telegraphs. I guess I shall be home by the time the cars come rattling through the quiet valley of Worcester. Mother wishes to know if my address is changed. You can if you choose direct in future to: Bvt Brig Gen Bates lst Brig, Ed Div. 25 Corps Washington, D.C. The Journal I get once and a while. The address has never been changed from the 9th Corps. When father goes to Cooperstown he may change it and pay up if anything is due. I like to see a copy occasionally. Delavan Headquarters, lst Brigade, 3rd Division, 25th Corps Faisons Station, North Carolina March 26, 1865 Dear Parents, I did not write last Sunday for I knew I should have no opportunity of sending a letter when written, as we had cut loose from all communications with the North and were moving through the enemy's country to join the gallant Sherman. We broke camp at North-East Station on the morning of the 16th of this month and boldly pushed up the railroad towards Goldsboro. Gen. Sherman was at Fayetteville and Gen. Schofield with the 23rd Corps at New Bern whither he had went a week previous to assist Sherman in reaching the coast, if necessary. Our column consisted of Ames' division of white troops and Paine's division of colored. For miles our road lay through pine forests and swamps similar to what we had already passed through from Wilmington to North-East. The swamps were much easier passed than the Virginia lowlands as these had a hard sandy bottom while the Virginia mudholes had no bottom at all. After leaving these lowlands and pine plains we passed through a very fertile and promising country, very much like the Northern states with the exception of high hills, instead of which we found a gently rolling surface. Sherman's style of living on the country was pursued and many were the ducks, chickens, sheep and cows that graced the tables of the colored division. It is very nice for the soldiers but terrible for the inhabitants, the last mouthful in many instances being taken by unprincipled scoundrels, some of which you know are found in every class of society and every pursuit of life. On the 21st of the month we found the invincible columns of that unequaled hero W.T. Sherman at Cots Crossing on the Nense River twelve miles above Goldsboro. Slocum's column was fighting at Bentonville and Schofield advancing on Goldsboro. That night the rebel army retreated and the next day Gen. Sherman issued an order to his troops stating that the campaign was ended and that they should now have rest. Sherman's army passed down the river road towards Goldsboro the 22nd and 23rd. The 24th Gen. Butler's (?) rebel cavalry hunting for Sherman's train ran into my brigade. They did not stop but a few minutes, however, not liking the appearance of the colored troops. I lost one man killed and eleven wounded. The next day Sherman's columns that were going to Goldsboro having all passed by safely, we were ordered to this point to guard the railroad which is in operation until everything is in readiness for the next campaign which I expect will be in about one month. The regular mail communications are not yet opened, but I shall send this letter off hoping it will reach you soon. Delavan Headquarters Ist Brigade, 3rd Division, 10th Corps Faisons (?) Depot April 9, 1865 Dear Parents, I am very happy to hear you have let out your farm and now do try and enjoy the remainder of your days without working so hard. If you need money for anything use mine. I am sure I should not enjoy it more if I used it myself. We march tomorrow to find the rebel army once more. I hardly think they will make a stand. Lee has been so terribly whipped at Richmond. If Johnson dares to risk a fight, however, why Sherman's boys are just the ones to meet him. I am in the best of health and enjoying myself very much. Went down to Wilmington Wednesday and stayed till Saturday just for a pleasure trip. Found everything lovely. On Friday news was received of the fall of Richmond and such a celebration you never saw. The weather is delightful. It is really a pleasure to live in such a climate. Our Corps has again been changed. We are now 1st Brigade, 3rd Division, 10th Corps. The change was made on General Terry's account. All the troops that came down to Fort Fisher with him and several other detachments were consolidated, forming the 10th Corps. No news of importance, except from the army of the Potomac, which of course you get before we do. Write often. Delavan Bates Headquarters, 1st Brigade, 3rd Division, 10th Corps Raleigh, North Carolina April 16, 1865 Dear Parents, Another city has been added to the list of the conquering hero. Raleigh, the capitol of North Carolina, is in our possession and the combined armies of the Cumberland, the Tennesee and the Ohio are encamped on the gently sloping hillsides surrounding the city. Two weeks ago while speaking of his next campaign Gen. Sherman said "on the 10th this army will move toward Raleigh and I don't care a damn who knows it and what is more, in three days from that date Raleigh shall be mine." Everyone was surprised to hear him divulge his plans this openly but says he "It makes no difference; I can go where I choose" and so we all think now, Sherman can go where he chooses. Johnson left the city on the morning of the 13th without firing a gun for the defense of the place. Kilpatrick's cavalry have done all the fighting since we left the Wilmington and Goldsboro road. A few slight skirmishes were all he found necessary to make his way through. Terry's Corps moved up on the extreme left. Cox with the remainder of Schofield's army on our right, then Slocum's column and next Howard's on the extreme right. The cavalry covered the advance and left flank. We marched about fifteen miles a day starting at six in the morning and the head of the column getting in camp long before dark. Those guarding the trains were of course later, but as the roads were very good most of the way, everything was in generally good season. Our Corps arrived on the 14th and expected to march yesterday at 9:00 a.m. toward Hillsboro where Johnson is supposed to be. Slocum's column was to start at 6:00. We had notice also that we would pass in review before Sherman while going through the city. At daylight, however, a very heavy rainstorm set in and at eight o'clock orders were received that we would not march, accompanied with a rumor that Johnson had sent in a flag of truce with an offer to surrender if the terms granted Lee would be allowed him. The rumor has not been confirmed yet and no one is very particular or cares much whether he surrenders or not. If he wants to have a good square fight before he gives up, why Sherman is just the man to give it to him. The inhabitants acknowledge themselves whipped and are willing to accept the Yankee rule with good grace provided we will protect what property they have left, and give them free access to our commissary department. I have found but few however that are in love with the Union. They accept it because they must and some of the most wealthy talk of leaving the country rather than be forced to live under the Stars and Stripes again. This generation will hardly become reconciled to the Lincoln government as they persist in calling our national head in Washington. There is another rumor afloat. I hear the men cheering, let me see what it is--Hurra! Hurra! Hurra! Gen. Johnson's army is to march in today and deliver up their arms. Gen. A. C. Howard has arranged the preliminaries and the war is ended. No wonder the men cheer--Hurra! Hurra! Hurra! But stop, perhaps this is premature and it is only a rumor. I'll ride up to the city and see and as the mail may leave today, I'll put in this letter. If the rumor is true I'll write tomorrow again. So good bye, Yours as ever, Delavan Bates Headquarters, 1st Brigade, 3rd Division, 10th Corps Near Raleigh, North Carolina April 23, 1865 Dear Parents, The war is over. General Sherman announces the "suspension of hostilities and an agreement with Johnson and other high officials which, when formally ratified, will make peace from the Potomac to the Rio Grande." I can hardly realize it, however. To think that we have no more deadly bullets to face, no more glittering bayonets to meet in the murderous charge, no more shells howling and shrieking through the air, mangling and tearing in pieces your comrades on either side. It seems to me as the doctrine of universalism does to many. "Too good to be true". But notwithstanding my feelings it is nevertheless true. And how thankful that I have been spared to witness this day. You cannot begin to imagine the happiness and joyful feelings that fill each soldier's breast as he thinks of the past four years of bloody warfare coming to such a glorious end. The only thing that marrs our enjoyment is the death of Lincoln. That he should be killed by a cowardly assassin just as the dawn of peace was breaking forth into the full open day. It is too bad, too bad .... Our Corps passed in review before General Sherman the 20th of April. The 23rd Corps on the 21st, and the 20th Corps yesterday. I was down yesterday to the city during the review. General Sherman does not put on much style. He was in full uniform but without sword, belt or sash, his coat unbuttoned and his manner was very easy and unassuming. He was surrounded by a host of lesser heroes such as Slocum, Schofield, Cox, Terry, Williams, Hagen, Mowers and others. A galaxy of military celebrities that are not very often to be seen together. There are rumors afloat that we (the colored division) go down to New Bern soon. I hope not for this is a delightful country and very healthy. Raleigh is one of the prettiest cities I ever saw. Every Yard and the sides of almost every street are filled with beautiful shade trees giving a very refreshing look to the streets and residences. Two papers are published daily. Both profess union sentiments and endeavor to persuade the citizens to return to their old love for the Union. The railroad is in operation from here to New Bern and that you may have some idea of how soon we receive news I will tell you that Lincoln's death reached this point on the morning of the 17th. Many, however, refused to believe it until New York papers came clothed in mourning. Of course you will now begin to enjoy life with a new zest as I shall only be exposed to the common accidents of life which of course I should be in any business or anywhere. I am very glad that I remained in the service to the end and now do not care if the colored troops are mustered out tomorrow. Yours as ever, Delavan Bates Headquarters, 1st Brigade, 3rd Division, 10th Corps Southfield, N.C. April 30, 1865 Dear Parents, The rebels have surrendered everything east of the Chatahoochi River and our forces are being distributed as the Generals commanding deem proper. The Army of the Tennesee and the Army of Georgia march north to Richmond and thence to Alexandria or Washington, to be mustered out, I presume. Schofield's Army of the Ohio remains in North Carolina. Paine's Division (colored) are on the march for Goldsboro and have halted a this point for dinner. It is expected when we arrive at Goldsboro the brigades will be distributed, one going to New Bern and one to Wilmington and the other remain at Goldsboro. I don't care where my brigade goes to. I have been assigned to duty according to my brevet rank and have all the rights and privileges of a Brigadier Genera), everything but the pay. That remains as before, a colonel's pay only. The pontoon bridge over the Muse (?) River was taken up yesterday and we had to wade the river. It was about breast deep and it was real fun to see the boys come through, such hollering you never heard. Just as if they were making a charge. One of my staff fell in head over heels off his horse and such a yell as went up then. The rebs appear to take things very cool. One, a member of the legislature, Hon. William Smith, I met today. He has just signed a call for the citizens to meet to devise means for bringing the state into the union again so as to have everything go on harmoniously. We thought the suffering had been so great the past year everybody would be glad enough to receive the protecting folds of the Stars and Stripes once more. I think so, too, that most everybody has seen enough of war. But if any have not, all they have to do is to make their wishes known and they can have a little fight any time they desire. Just give my regards to all inquiring friends and hoping you are all enjoying yourselves very much over the news of peace, I am as ever, Your son, Delavan Headquarters, lst Brigade, 3rd Division, 10th Army Corps Goldsboro, North Carolina May 14, 1865 Dear Parents, Your very welcome letter of the 30th of April arrived today, which shows that communication with the north is at last getting systematized. Before this, letters have been three, four and sometimes five weeks reaching me. I have just returned from church (Episcopal ), the second time I have been to such a place since I left Worcester last October. The congregation was small, many members refusing to attend I hear because the Pastor mentions the President of the United States as worthy of the Almighty's special favor. There are two other churches in this place, Presbyterian and Methodist Episcopal. The latter is run at present by "American citizens of African Descent" and a loud time they have too, preaching every night and Sundays thrice during the day and night. Two colored chaplains are running the concern. The prospects are quite favorable for our remaining at this point until the civil government of the state is reorganized. Meetings are being held throughout the state by those who are willing to renew their devotion to the Union. All yield a passive obedience but many say boldly ìwe are subdued, not converted." "Perhaps we may learn to love the Stars and Stripes but we certainly do not love them now." Companies of from seventy to one hundred men have been sent to the different counties in the state under discreet officers to disperse guerrillas if any should be found and to organize "house guards" from the most loyal inhabitants. These guards take the oath of allegiance and are furnished with arms and are to act as a sort of police, keeping order, and preserving the peace. They are to be subject to orders from military commanders in the state also, and if they answer the purpose for which they are intended, it will obviate the necessity of keeping troops in the state except at a few central points. Major Cronkhite of the 121st N.Y. Vols lost a leg during the closing up campaign near Petersburgh I see by the papers. If you can obtain any information as to how he is getting along be sure and send me word. You ask about my wound. The hearing of my right ear is quite seriously impaired. This and the unpleasant sensations experienced in opening my mouth is all that I feel from the effects of the bullet. I do not mind either, however, very often and feel well satisfied to find myself at the close of the war in as good condition as I am. I did expect to get stove up before the thing was through. If four weeks is time enough to go west, Mother may have things ready to go next fall, for I think even if I do not leave the service, I shall be home as long as that; and prefer if the time is not too short, to go there with her instead of going elsewhere. I presume Valetta and Valerie are going to school in this beautiful weather. I have been expecting a letter from them for some time and shall continue to expect one for four weeks longer and then Page -2- Letter of: May 14, 1865 if it is not here conclude that they have forgotten how to write. If they want to know what to write about, I would like to hear about everything and everybody in town, Tuscan, Worcester, East Worcester, South Hill, West Hill, Decater, Maryland, etc. The schoolmistress, who is she? Is she good looking? Who goes to school? Who gets good lessons? And who gets whipped? I know it is not right to tell tales out of school, but soldiers you know are entitled to a great many privileges that are not exactly right. I saw in a Cooperstown paper a little account of a fight in Tuscan where several were severely injured. Who were the parties? And how did it happen? Valerie may write about that and Valetta the other items. What were the particulars about William Bates' death? Mother writes he was murdered? All I have heard was that he was shot by guerrillas while asleep. Was he on picket or did the guerrillas surprise their camp? And while I am writing all this trash I guess I will give you (the children) a word or two of advice. Mother says you are living in Tuscan. Now not more than a hundred miles from Tuscan I have heard little girls swear like troopers and also seen little girls with great big cigars in their mouths puffing like a steam engine. Of course I don't expect to find one of you with a "long nine" in your mouth when I come home. Neither do I expect to be greeted with a volley of oaths, but I wish to say to you "Be very careful in forming your habits this summer that you do not get any bad ones." You will have to be much more watchful where you are than you were on the quiet hillside. Many more temptations to overcome, and many more vices to avoid. But I have no doubt with the home teaching you have had you will pass through in safety and fervently trusting and hoping I remain as ever, Delavan Headquarters, 1st Brigade, 3rd Division, 10th Corps Goldsboro, N.C. May 21, 1865 Dear Parents, Everything and everybody are moving quietly along at this point. The parties that went out in the adjoining counties to raise home guards to act as a local police force had good success, organizing a company of about fifty men in each county. These men took the oath and are furnished with arms and a small quantity of ammunition. This week an officer has gone to each of the same counties to learn the standing and predelictions of the justices of the Peace. I presume there will be an order issued for those who have not been too bitter against the government to continue in the administration of their duties. Gen. Schofield has issued a very wise order for the government of Freedmen until the restoration of the state government. I send you a copy of the order that you may see how easily a department commander can arrange affairs. To have obtained a law embracing those principles would have taken years. He has also issued an order stating that no rations will be given away to citizens after the 31st of this month. Since we have been here I think we have been feeding from this post three of four thousand people. Seven hundred came in on one road in one day. Many of these owned farms of from three hundred to a thousand acres. The loss of their personal property of course makes it inconvenient for a time, but if they have any spunk at all they will get through this summer some way. The citizens are feeling quite sad over the news of Jeff Davis' capture. Notwithstanding the untold miseries he has heaped upon the South they still feel for his welfare and have all the while hoped for his escape. I presume it is for the reason that he is the only thing visible that remains of their cause. It would be a little consolation also amid so many defeats to say "Oh, you Yanks could whip us five to one but you were not smart enough to catch Jeff Davis." Do you take the World now? If you do I wish you would send me a copy occasionally. It is very seldom we get anything but the Herald here and that not very regularly so I hardly know how or what is going on in the North. Write more about the home news also and in your next letter I wish you could mention how much money I have with you and how it is disposed, and also whether you could invest to an advantage if I send you money through the summer. With a little trouble I can get my pay at any time when I have a month's wages due, but I hate to bother with so little unless you think it better. Delavan Bates Headquarters, lst Brigade, 3rd Division, 10th Corps Goldsboro, North Carolina May 28, 1865 Dear Parents, How rapidly the days and weeks run by. It hardly seems a day since I mailed a letter for home and here seven have passed and I am writing again. It is so pleasant here I hardly notice the fleeting days as they pass. All it lacks is the social circle to make me perfectly contented. For several days Col. Holman (?) of the 1st Regiment and Col. River of the 10th together with myself have been examining the officers of this brigade preparatory to sending a report to the war department in regard to their relative merit, what rank they are qualified for, whether they wish to remain in the service or not, etc. Every brigade in the army is being examined in the same way. I presume the Secretary of War desires this knowledge to assist him in reorganizing the army. I think I shall signify my willingness to remain a short time longer if my services are desired, although I feel many times as if I ought to soon enter upon some business that I can follow through life. What would you advise me to do? Cherries and plums are just beginning to ripen. I have not tasted any yet but shall go out in the country this week and get some. Strawberries are gone already. We had several dishes and with nice sweet milk (we keep a cow) and white sugar. Oh, how delicious! I find that martial law works first rate even in time of peace in this country. Last Wednesday evening one of our neighbors came home slightly intoxicated and as customary with him commenced breaking in the doors of his house, smashing things to pieces, beating his wife and raising the devil generally. My guard arrested him, brought him over to headquarters and just for an experiment I had him tied to a tree standing near, his hands above his head and his toes resting on the ground. It rained quite severely during the night and in the morning his fighting propensities had entirely oozed out. Upon letting him down he confessed he felt the enormity of his crime and promised to go and sin no more. I think his conversion is genuine. How is the railroad progressing and when do you expect it will be completed through out the valley of the Schenevas? I want to get off the cars at Worcester next time I come home. My kind regards to all. Write often. Delavan Headquarters, 1st Brigade, 3rd Division, 10th Corps Morehead City June 4, 1865 Dear Parents, It is with haste I scratch off a few lines in place of my weekly letter. We have just arrived at this point from Goldsboro. My Brigade occupied all the posts on the coast from here to Roanoke Island. I think I should make my quarters at Beaufort. Shall go over tomorrow and see how I like it. I will write more particulars as soon as we get located. D. Bates Headquarters lst Brigade, 3rd Division, 10th Corps Beaufort, North Carolina June 18, 1865 Dear Parents, I hardly know what to write for today's letter. The first one or two weeks stay at a place is quite interesting. Then as the novelty disappears it is so monotonous one hardly knows whether he is dead or alive. And now the war is over and no anticipations of future campaigns and battles it is doubly tiresome. I am half inclined at times to resign. My command is so widely separated there is no opportunity for brigade drills or reviews and I have nothing to do with the exception of acting upon such official business as may be passing through the military channel up or down. I derive much consolation, however, in knowing that I have the most desirable location in the state for a summer residence. Gen. Terry I hear has been assigned to the command of Virginia relieving Gen. E. 0. C. Osst (?). Every man in the corps will feel a deep regret in parting with the hero of Fort Fisher. He is a good soldier and a perfect gentleman. Many regiments of the second division of our corps are being mustered out and I presume those that are not will be transferred to some other corps leaving the colored division by itself to garrison the state, or eastern part of the state rather as long as troops are needed here (which I think will be all summer) and then head for Texas. Gov. Holden is busy at work appointing justices of the peace and organizing county courts. His proclamation which you will doubtless see in northern papers is well received by the inhabitants. The thermometer stands at 90 degrees most of the time in this place, occasionally running up a little higher when the sea breeze is not felt. I went over to Morehead City last evening in a small sailboat. Started for Beaufort about nine o'clock, the wind went down, there was a calm. Not being prepared for rowing we drifted along with the tide until three O'clock this morning when we managed to reach the port. Although I cannot say I admired the style very much, yet it was far from being unpleasant as the night was lovely--everything so still and quiet and bathed in a flood of silvery light from the moon looked like some fairy picture. The sea also when disturbed sparkled as though filled with a thousand gems. A person with brilliant imagination and good command of language could write a very interesting article upon such a scene, but my ideas and feelings tend so strongly to the practical and worldly side of affairs that I was all the while thinking of how we could get in port and thus failed to notice one half the beauties of the scene. But I must close this uninteresting scribbling and I presume you will not care. I hope I may have more ideas next week. Delavan Headquarters, lst Brigade, 3rd Division, 10th Corps Beaufort, July 2, 1865 Dear Parents, I received today a copy of the Journal of June 16th, the first item I have received from the north since your letter of the lst of June. The paper was very welcome but a kind letter containing a few words from Father or Mother would have been prized much more highly. I presume father is so busy this summer getting ready to build that kitchen he has but little time to think of anything else and I'll bet he will do more hard work this summer than he has before in ten years. And mother too if she doesn't stop weaving I don't know what will become of her. The children of course find plenty to do running around the neighborhood with an occasional visit to Ursula's or up to the lake berrying. I guess however you know as much about what is going on at home as I do and I will tell you a little about myself and surroundings. Would you like to know what I am doing? Just nothing at all individually but a great deal through my command. From five to seven hundred men at work at Morehead City every day loading and unloading cars, steamers, sloops, etc. It is fearfully demoralizing to the troops. They think as they see the white troops leaving every day for their houses that the colored soldiers are retained on purpose to do this dirty work. The colored citizens of Beaufort intend celebrating the Fourth in the old fashioned style. The white folks haven't got over their subjugature yet enough to feel very patriotic although I see in New Bern they intend having a slight demonstration. I think I shall take a sail down to Cape Lookout for my entertainment. I have been talking of going down ever since we have been here but never got farther than Shackleford Banks, the long sand bank you see on the map between Cape Lookout and Beaufort. I expected to find some pretty shells there but so many visitors had been there before, all of any beauty had been taken. I have a nice little yacht at my disposal and can go sailing whenever I choose. I am afraid I shall be good for nothing when I get out of this business. It makes a person so lazy going two or three years without working any and always having the slightest wish obeyed without a question from anybody. It will be quite a task to change my whole life as I shall have to do and I don't know but the best thing I can do is to remain where I am a few months longer. Delavan Headquarters, 1st Brigade, 3rd Division, 10th Corps Beaufort, N. C. July 9, 1865 To Valetta and Valerie, Oh, such a pleasant time I have had today. Shall I tell you all about where I have been and what I have been doing? I will, for I know it will be very interesting to you to know how I amuse myself so far from home. Well, early this morning I went over to Morehead City and there found Gen. Paine, Capt. Soeke, and Lieut. Graves from New Bern also Col. Revere and lady and Lieut. Simpson and lady all ready for a visit to Fort Macon. We embarked on the "Goliath", a government tug, and were soon steaming along toward the Fort. Upon arriving there we met Col. Poor, the Commandant, who very courteously showed us all the interesting points of the work as the prisoners' cells, the magazine, the flank casements for enfilading the moat, the 10 inch Columbiads, 100 pound Perrot guns, 24 pound Howitzers, and any number of 32 pounders. We saw in many places the effects of Burnside's shells when he bombarded the fort after New Bern was taken. In one place a 32 pound shot broke two bars of railroad iron placed as a protection to the walls and entered three inches in the solid brick. Another shell came very near penetrating the magazine. After examining the fort as long as we pleased the gentlemen went down to the beach and had such a delightful bath in the surf. And then re-embarking we started out to sea. It was very calm and we went out three or four miles. Yes, I guess it was ten miles as we went far enough to see the light house at Cape Lookout very distinctly. All of the sailors threw a line over but no fish was foolish enough to bite. When we returned to Morehead we found an excellent dinner at Col. Revere's awaiting us to which I can assure you we did ample justice. By this time it was four o'clock and time for the review that had been ordered to give Gen. Paine (he is our division commander, you know) an opportunity to see the troops. There being no good ground nearer than Carolina City--a station two miles above Morehead--the regiments marched up to that place. The review passed off very nicely and Gen. Paine thought the troops looked first rate and much better than he expected to see them after so much hard labor at Morehead unloading vessels, handling coal, railroad iron, etc. The 30th bore the palm in general appearance and marching. By this time it was dusk and myself, Lieut. Davidson and Randall were soon in our little yacht returning to Beaufort and now I am in my cozy arm chair writing to my dear little sisters all about my day's adventures. Will they write me an account of where they went, what they saw, and what they heard on the fourth of July to repay me? And as I have another page to fill I think I will give you a description of my travels on the fourth. I have been very anxious to visit Cape Lookout since my sojourn in this vicinity commenced. And so as the fourth had to be celebrated in some way why not go to the Cape? Everybody was willing and so we went, Dr. Chalfant and his wife, Mr. Blakeslee and Miss Page -2- Letter of: July 9, 1865 Respass, Mr. Respass and Mrs. Richards, myself and Miss Richards. A goodly stock of provisions, a large demijohn of water, a few bottles of wine and any quantity of watermelons made up the load and away we went with a nice breeze. Only once we ran aground and then all of the men pulled off shoes and socks, jumped into the water and soon shoved the boat over the shoal. The remainder of the way to where we landed it was very pleasant. The tide being low we could only sail to within three miles of the lookout. All concluded to foot it the rest of the way rather than return without visiting the lookout. So we had dinner and started overland. We had a delightful walk going over to the seaside and then along the coast a mile or two gathering beautiful shells and enjoying the sea breeze. Once there we ascended the tower (180 ft. high) and took a view of the surroundings. It was a beautiful sight, a boundless expanse of water extending just as far as the eye could reach and dotted here and there with the white sails of some passing vessels. Cape Lookout at our feet running out about three miles into the sea. Shackleford Banks extending a long distance to the right and a continuation of the same bank far up to the left separating the ocean from the inlet that we came up. The lighthouse itself is a very interesting structure. A large iron pedestal running through the centre which supports the lantern, supported by eight feet mason work of brick around the outside with room however for stairs between the pedestal and brickwork. The rebs endeavored to undermine and blow up the house during the war but through their inexperience in the business only succeeded in demolishing about forty feet of the stairway, which formerly was iron but is now replaced by wooden steps. Another act of vandalism was the taking away of the large reflectors. I saw these while at Raleigh stored away in one of the galleries of the capitol. But time glided swiftly on and we had to return to our boat, and oh what a tiresome walk. Nothing to interest us on our return. We dragged our wearied limbs along over the hot sands and if ever I was thankful it was when I lay myself down on the bow of the yacht. Eight o'clock.found us gliding into the harbor of Beaufort. The colored population were just closing up their day's celebration with fireworks, but we were so tired instead of stopping to see them we hurried home and in just three minutes after reaching home I was snugly in bed. It was two days before I got fairly rested, and Mrs. Chalfant's face was burned almost to a blister. I picked up a lot of beautiful shells for you which I shall try and bring home the first time I come. Delavan Headquarters, 3rd Divison, 10th Army Corps District of Beaufort New Bern, North Carolina July 16, 1865 Dear Parents, I have yet another change to record in my ever varying experiences. I am in command of the 3rd Division, 10th Army Corps and District of New Bern. This is, however, but temporary and will extend but thirty days or until Gen. C. J. Paine returns from home where he has gone on a thirty days leave. My quarters are in New Bern. I don't like the place as well as Beaufort. There is no sea breeze to temper down the rays of a July sun, and the mosquitoes are very troublesome also. When Gen. Paine returns, Gen. Duncan is to have a leave, and after that will come my turn. This will make it too late in the season to go west and Father must go in my place. Won't you go, Father, in September? You have never been from home but little and are situated now so that you can as well as not. Now if you will I won't send up my application for a leave until you return and then come home and spend the time all in Worcester and Cobbleskill. Write me soon whether you will go or not--and you must not say no--and I will make my arrangements accordingly. I received your letter of July 2nd and also the one wherein you mentioned about the money. I am very happy to hear you have got rid of all those anxieties and misgivings about my being killed that weighed you down so during those long years of bloody war. And do hope you will enjoy the happiness arising from a contented mind during your remaining years. I do not think we shall go to Texas this summer as troops will be needed at such places as New Bern and Morehead City as long as the government has any property or is transacting any business at these places. Write soon. Delavan Headquarters, District of New Bern, North Carolina July 23, 1865 Dear Parents, I am now fairly settled in my new location and every thing is running smoothly. I have much more business to perform than I did with my brigade. A great many residences were abandoned in this place just before Burnside took possession, the owners going farther up in Dixie. They are now returning and endeavoring to obtain their property under the amnesty proclamation. Of course each case has to be examined separately to see if it is not included in the exceptions of the proclamation and it takes much time. I have a very nice house to live in, one of the abandoned ones worth seven thousand dollars. I board out, get first rate fare at eight dollars per week--at the hotel they charge 21 dollars. It is quite healthy here at present. The weather is very warm. This morning had quite a severe thunder storm and the clouds appear very threatening and occasionally a low rumble is heard as if another storm was approaching. There is a billiard table in one of the outhouses on this lot and I go out and roll the balls every now and then. On this table is the first ball I ever struck in my life. It is quite an interesting game but takes much practice to become in any way proficient. The civil authorities are getting along very well, taxing however pretty well to commence with. How are your taxes now? They must be as high as 4 or 5 percent on the valuation, are they not? Ellen writes that Harm (?) has to pay five hundred dollars. I guess there must be a heavy town bounty to make them at that figure. Is the railroad finished to Worcester yet? And where is the depot to be? The 121st I see has reached home. How many returned of those that went with me and what are their names? Write all the particulars of their return. Yours, etc. Delavan Headquarters, 3rd Division, 10th Corps New Bern, North Carolina July 30, 1865 Dear Parents, Do you remember where I was one year ago today? It was between six and seven o'clock a.m. July 30th 1864 that I received the first and only taste of rebel lead that I have had in three years service. Oh, but that was an awful morning, between the hours of four and six I would not have bet five dollars on my being alive at the end of the next half hour. But two such hours as those were worth two years of common life. Today although a very nice sunny quiet sabbath is but a blank compared with my experiences on that day. Experiences, however, that I do not care to have repeated but once in a life time. The work of reconstruction is going on slow but sure in this state. Gov. Holden makes all the appointments of Justices of the Peace, Mayors, Common Councils, etc. The magistrates are to administer the oath of allegiance and make out lists of all the legal voters and about the lst of October a convention will be held to reorganize the state government. All acts of the state government subsequent to the secession of the state are declared illegal and are of no effect. The old state money is worth twenty five cents on a dollar. The bonds issued during the rebellion will be repudiated which will make the state taxes much lower than in northern states. The great loss for these states will be what has been taken from them during the rebellion, pay for which has been mostly confederate notes and bonds which are of no value whatever. We are having plenty of North Carolina fruit now, consisting of figs, peaches and melons. The thermometer stands at 105 degrees in the shade. In the sun 120 to 130 degrees and there has not been a pound of ice for sale in two days. Just imagine how cool we keep. Do you hear anything from Col. Kidder or Major Cronkhite since the regiment was mustered out? How do the political parties stand now? Who sustains Johnson and what platform does the opposition stand on? Delavan Bates New Bern, North Carolina August 6, 1865 Dear Mother and Sisters, Your very welcome letter of July 24th was received last night, the first I have received dated since July 2nd. Of the papers Mother mentioned, I received one "World' and two "Journal". I think father will go west. If however he does not deem it advisable, I will try and reach home by the middle of September. I am very glad to hear the cars are running to Worcester as they are so convenient. Mother must go much oftener than heretofore to Ellen's. Ellen is so lonesome. You need not feel at all uneasy about my getting out to sea for I never venture out of the harbor or Bogue sound, a body of water connecting with the harbor which has a narrow strip of land between it and the ocean. A terrible accident occurred a few days ago just off the mouth of the harbor at Morehead City. The steamer Quinnebang (?) having on board discharged soldiers ran on a shoal and sunk, and many were drowned while endeavoring to reach the shore. Awful was it not, after passing safely through the dangers of a dozen or more battlefields to be drowned just as they were starting for home. In going to my boarding place I have to pass a colored church. This morning about 7:00 a.m. on my way to breakfast as I approached the church, the most unearthly set of screeching and howlings that I ever heard in my life met my ears. Upon arriving at the church I found that the members had assembled at that early hour for love feast and were closing up with prayer and thanksgiving. And such a time as they were having, a dozen campmeetings in full blast would not be a circumstance. The design appeared to be to make all the noise that could be made by the number assembled, and with hollering and singing and clapping of hands and stamping of feet and crying and yelling I think they must have succeeded admirably in its execution. The blacks exhibit the most enthusiasm in the religious exercises of any class I ever saw. And for the information of the children I will say that the little girls with their Sunday clothes on look just as neat as any little girls I ever saw. They take a great deal of pride in having good clothes, those that can get money enough to get them with. Do not look for me till I write positively when I am coming. Write often. Delavan Headquarters, District of New Bern New Bern, N. C., Sept. 20, 1865 Special Orders No. 30 Bvt. Brig. Gen. Del. Bates is hereby relieved from command of the troops in the vicinity of Morehead City and assigned to the command of the Post of New Bern relieving Lt. Col. Bairustine. By command of Bvt. Maj. Gen. C. J. Paine New Bern, North Carolina December 3, 1865 Dear Sisters, Your interesting letter of November 26th is received. I shall leave this city on Tuesday for Roanoke island where my regiment will be mustered out. Then we shall go to Baltimore for discharge and final payment. Last Wednesday I was in Wilmington. While there I saw General Grant who is on an inspecting tour through the South. Father asks why General Paine was mustered out. It was for the same reason that I am now. His services were required no longer by the War Department. Military is "played out" in this state, but three regiments are to remain in the entire state, one colored and two white, and it is expected that two of these will be mustered out before Spring. I send some more photographs. The little girls are Doctor Chalfant's children. They lived at my Headquarters last summer. Sophia the little one was a real interesting little girl. Direct your next letter to Worcester, Otsego Co. New York. I expect to be there in a few weeks. Delvan Bates Salisbury, North Carolina March 4, 1866 Father, I can now give you a slight idea of my location and business. Mr. Snydam and myself have entered into a partnership with Messrs. Owen and Sofield, formerly sutlers of a northern regiment but since September 1865 merchants of this place. We have two stores in operation, one large three story brick store in this town and one country store at Catawba Station 50 miles west on the Morgantown railroad. We have a stock of about forty thousand dollars on hand and if we have the success we are hoping for we will make money, but like all other questions there are two sides to it and we may lose all we invest. I presume that I shall take charge of the store at Catawba although the details of our business are not settled yet. The name of the firm is Owen, Sofield & Co. We each have the privilege of drawing twelve hundred dollars from the concern per year for expenses and I have been thinking that if you choose to buy a farm worth four or five thousand dollars I would keep my expenses down so as to furnish you with two or three hundred dollars a year to help pay the amount that you would have to run in debt. If you conclude to do so just inform me at any time and I will make my arrangements accordingly. It seems quite good to get behind the counter again and I prefer it much more than soldiering, although I miss the little roll of greenbacks that used to come around regular every thirty days. The weather has been very fine since my arrival here. But few frosty nights have been seen and gardening is rapidly progressing now. Please write soon all the news that has been heard of in Worcester since my departure. Direct to this place until you hear from me again. Delavan Bates Catawba Station, North Carolina June 3, 1866 Dear Sisters Valetta and Valerie, Your kind letters of May 20th are received. I did not think you had forgotten me, but your long silence led me to suppose that you found a more pleasant may to pass your time than in writing to me. Now you have commenced please answer each of the letters that I write you (beginning with this) and I will inform you of everything of interest that transpires in my experiences. Last week I was in Salisbury three or four days. I had a very pleasant time. I went down for the purpose of being initiated in the Chapter degrees of Masonry. I have joined the Free Masons so that I may find friends wherever I travel. I have been to church today. It is not such a church as you went to the day you wrote, but an old log one. The people, however, appeared to be real good and were intelligent and well behaved. Most all of them came on horseback. What would you think of riding behind father on a mule to meeting? I saw a number of little or rather big girls do this the other day at a burial. You are improving very well in your writing and I hope to see a continual improvement all summer. Every word and every letter, try to make a little better. I don't, but that is no reason why you should not. Nothing looks better in a young lady's writing than to have the letters all made well. Our business goes on very well. My health is first rate and hoping to hear from you soon I subscribe myself as ever your affectionate brother. Delavan Bates Salisbury, North Carolina October 2, 1866 Dear Father, Yours of September 21st is received. The check I sent you in my last letter you will notice was payable to S. A. Bell, A.A. Surgeon, U.S. Army. I cashed it for him which accounts for my having it. You were right in supposing that I had no further claims against the government. Business is very dull and as the corn and wheat crops are short and these articles are the main source of income for this country, I fear we shall sink money this fall and winter so trade must necessarily be dull. I shall not be surprised if I find myself home a year from today, the same as I left four years ago--without a cent in my pocket. It will be mighty rough if this should prove true, but such things will happen in the best of families sometimes. The state election comes off soon. No excitement in this vicinity, although the radicals (a party organized by W. W. Holden, a disappointed politician) in some counties are making quite a stir. Working hard and continually hoping for the best, I remain as ever, Your son, Delavan Bates Salisbury, North Carolina November 18, 1866 Dear Father, Your letter found me in good health and spirits as usual, although badly disappointed in my anticipations of southern life. The time passes very pleasantly and if this adventure does not prove to be the "mistake of a' lifetime" I hardly think I shall regret it much. Some days when trade is very dull it will make a person feel a little blue when he adds up the liabilities that are to be met on or before a certain day and knows that if they are not met, he is ruined, but on the whole I do not think I have passed nine months of less anxiety since leaving home in 1862 than those just passed. During the war it was life or death--now it is only wealth or poverty. And to guard against the latter contingency I shall keep my expenses down so as to be able to send a few dollars home occasionally. If we could have as good a trade as today's for one year I would not take 10,000 dollars for my interest here. The cash receipts amounted to 200 dollars besides forty or fifty dollars barter. Yesterday, however, to balance this we only took in 25 dollars. A year's trade of which kind would leave me without one cent in my pocket and perhaps 20,000 or 30,000 of liabilities hanging over my head. Our store at Catawba Station is doing very well but since Owen and Sofield left the firm we have been obliged to leave it entirely in the hands of a clerk and in all probability we shall close it up the lst of January as our rent expires at that time. I presume you are having plenty of hard frosts and perhaps snow by this time. I have not seen a particle of ice yet. A few slight frosts is all we have experienced. Yours affectionately, Delavan Bates Salisbury, North Carolina December 19, 1866 Dear Father, I was very happy to receive your letter of December 9th and in reply write you the same as I did Ursula a week ago that I am glad you have purchased as desirable a farm as you have and desire that you use my money the same as if it was your own, first paying for the land and secondly--if you intend it for a life residence--beautifying and adorning the same. I wish you would inform me in your next letter whether you can pay for the place and stock it as it ought to be. And if not how much money added to what you already have would do the same. The President's message is received with general favor here and if Congress would only act as he desires the Union would soon be restored to the condition it was in prior to the rebellion. I send you a paper containing the views of the North Carolina Legislature on the "Hesvard (?) Amendment". It is an able document and I think reflects the views of each of the Southern States. Please tell Mother to write a little in every letter for she always gives me the latest news when she writes. My love to the children and kind regards to all. Hoping to hear from home soon I remain as ever, Your affectionate son, Delavan Bates Salisbury, North Carolina June 3, 1867 Dear Mother, Your letter with Valetta's and Valerie's arrived yesterday. I was very happy to hear that you were all well and also that you had received the bill that I sent you in my last letter. Valetta wants to know when I am coming home. I think now that I shall be with you in July or August although I am not certain. If I do come I shall not return to this place. I have had an offer for my interest here which I accepted and if the person does not back out I shall come home to stay. Spring or rather summer is far advanced here. We have had strawberries, cherries and other early fruit in abundance for several weeks. Garden vegetables we have had for a long time. Tell Valerie I am very much obliged for her news items and would like, the same every week. Ask her and Valetta to write me what to bring them when I come and if you desire anything please let me know and I will oblige. Your son, Delavan