MILITARY: James Reed Civil War Diary; Lansingburgh, Rensselaer co., NY

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DJS 
James Reed
Born Ireland 1839
Veteran Civil War
Lived in Lansingburgh NY
Enlisted in Army

NOTE: This is an account of his Civil War Diary starting with Page: 1. The 
total document is 33 pages but is formatted to resemble the original contents 
of the small black book, 115 Pages to the End of the War. 

PRINCIPAL EVENTS OF MY EXPERIENCE IN THE WAR OF THE REBELLION TAKEN FROM
DIARY KEPT DURING 2 YEARS OF SERVICE

ENLISTED AT LANSINGBURGH APRIL 25TH 1861 CO. A.

CAPTAIN SAMUEL KING, 1ST LIEUT, JOHN H. CAMPBELL, 2ND LIEUT. FRANCIS
DARGEN,ORDERLY SGT WM. SHELLEY

SWORN INTO THE SERVICE OF THE UNITED STATED JUNE 1ST 1861
30TH REG. OF THE NYS INFANTRY, 2 YEARS COL FRISBIE OF ALBANY IN COMMAND. 
LEFT CAMP IN ALBANY FOR THE SEAT OF WAR. 
Page: 1

June 26th 1861, Thursday: 
>From NY at 5 PM for Amboy, Took car from there for Camden. Crossed the
Delaware in boat for Philadelphia at 1 o'clock AM.
Furnished supper by the Ladies at 2 o'clock at the depot took a nap on
soft side of a plank for one half hour, then took train for Baltimore, Slow
traveling, Picked berries on the road. Stopped at Wilmington, and had
some refreshments. Reg. was cheered all along the route. Arrived in Baltimore
at 1 o'clock am. Stopped till 8, people more according than in NY. Colored 
ladies more plentiful than white and some of them as white as many Northern 
Women. Arrived at Washington Sunday morning 2 o'clock 29th of June. Quartered
in the 5th story of a brick building. Slept on floor, Went to church at St.
Matthew's. 
Page:2 

Rained all day. Dirty streets Left 30th at 8 o'clock am. Left Washington for 
camp at Brightwood about 5 miles outside city, very hot. With heavy knapsacks. 
We got there around Noon. Pitched
tents while it rained hard first night in camp 7 in a tent. Lay as close 
together as a lot of chickens under a hen.

July 1st, July 2nd Picket-Guards about 3 miles from camp. 3rd captured a
rebel who proved to be the colonels steward, hot day. Ordered for review
next day. July 4th, left camp at 6 am for Washington. Arrived at 9.
Reviewed by President, Generals Scott, Wool and others. Marched back to
camp again without stopping very hot day. Dropped out of line near camp.
Took a bath at a creek off main road near Crystal Spring. After bathing
took a good drink of good stuff at the Shakespeare Tavern, called as you
like it, bent back to camp and felt fresh and good. 5th very hot and had
drill in forenoon. 6th on guard on the road in the day in wood at night.
Heard heavy firing in the distance. 7th very hot. Washed my clothes in
creek below Crystal spring. First washing in that line. 8th nothing new.
9th Barney Corrigan visited us in Camp. Came from Alexandria, Ellsworth 
Zouaves slept in the tent with us one night.

Page: 3

10th, Barney left at 8 o'clock am myself and 2 other comrades went little
way on road to see him off. Rained at night and next day. 11th and 12th all
quiet. 13th double quick to Crystal Spring. Stacked arms on Dancing
platform where the officers bought Lager for us. 14th July on Guard.15th
practiced firing in evening. 16th fired at target, 17th thp mills, from
home called at camp had several letters for the boys. Went away same
afternoon. Under marching orders. 18th letters from home. 19th another,
20th went to Washington to church, after church saw the Principal Buildings
and parks in city. Arrived at camp in evening found regt. In line ready to
march left camp about 10pm for the front. when near Washington orders
countermanded returned back to camp. Great Battle at Bull Run reported.
July 21st. Hospitals in the city filled with wounded. 22nd and 23rd
wounded still arriving in city. 24th left camp for Virginia. Crossed the
long bridge at night arrived at General Lee's estate Arlington Heights.
Camped there 2 days. 28th, Camped at Hunter's Chapel.
Our Regiment is the advanced Guard, went out on picket 

Page: 4

in the woods,out skirmished on the road. 29th, After being on guard day
before.
Routed out every night and slept on our arms. 30th inspected by 2 United
States officers with our knapsacks on. 31st. All quiet. Aug. 1st hot
rained hard at night. 2nd on Picket. 3rd sick very hot. 4th very sick
all day and night-could not eat. 5th better but weak. Went at 6 am on picket.
First County sign. Black jokes one. 10 from each co. 1 day's rations a
loaf of bread and piece of salt junk, went towards Fairfax. Crossed enemy
lines on Alexandra and Leesburgh R Road. Got a piece of telegraph cable,
it was strung along road. 6th Relieved at 9 AM enemies cavalry seen close at
hand by pickets. Reached camp felt sick all day. 7th better. Col.
complimented Regt at dress parade. 8th officer at dress parade-their
commission. 9th camp guard. Heavy thunder and lightning at night while on
guard. Had rain storm, guards had a glowing spell about 27 sleeping in 1
tent. Col. let us sleep at his quarters 9th all quiet. 10th Paid off. 1
month. Felt very sick severe pains in head and vomiting. 11th little better
went to church. Church close by had a priest from Washington officiated.
Went to Gauhaldi's camp and from there

Page: 5

to Fort Albany saw J Leary 1st Mass, Inf. 12th very tired and sick rain all 
day.
13th raining, 14 went with CO on scouting party with co. G and E. Capt. King
in command were out 36 hours slept at night in a Methodist church about 4
miles from chain bridge 15th in evening back to camp unwell next 4 days Plenty
of rain 2oth on guard over the magazine. CO went to chop wood to Arlington,
21st wrote home 22nd on police digging up stumps had whiskey in afternoon.
22nd to 25th out of our co. on picket. Had trouble with rebels drove them
back 23all quiet fine day 24th ordered to be ready to leave camp at one.
Role of drums and 3 taps tents all struck an attack expected lay on our arms
all night, left camp at 10 PM for Arlington. 25th camped there. 26th whole
brigade reviewed by our first brigadier gen. keyes and Sherman brigade
reviewed at same time President Lincoln sec, Maj. Gen. McClennan

Gen. McDowall and several other officers. Grand site. Roads very dusty and
very tired when got back to camp next 4 days nothing new very hot. 31st Ist
inspected Gen. Keyes he paid our Company in particular.

Page: 6

Our Brigade is 14th Brooklyn on right 24th 22nd and 30th on Regt. on left 
nothing new
up to 5th.Sept on Picket about 5 miles to Hales House. Rained all day 6th
relieved by 14th very tired when I got to camp. 7th had a walk with Rev.
Father Scully chaplain 9th Mass. 8th. Went to his Regt. To mass, 9th all
quiet. 10th Brigade drill by Gen. Keyes, surprised at how well we done for
the short time, in service and best drilled on the side of Potomac. 11th
got new clothes, full outfit jacket pants shirt drawers, shoes blanket cap
of brigade. Dull afternoon in fair 12th another brigade drill rained hard at
night. 13th another brigade drill 14th same drill 15 Sunday inspection,
sermon by DR newsman of Albany smart talker ordered to be ready to move
straight orders, against leaving camp. 16th left wing of Regt on picket.
17th paid off in gold and treasury notes. Heavy thunder and rain storm 18th
plenty of whiskey in camp at night and some gambled all night by light of
moon. 19th all still fun at night by some of our fellows and 14th concert
Many drank in camp

Page: 7

20th Sept 1861 on picket, pleasant time 21st back to camp very tired. 22nd
inspection 23rd on guard 24th reviewed by Gen. McClelland and staff
Prince De Joineville and suite and others, grand sight. 25th stick frill 12
from each CO with _, corn, officers, false alarm at night 26th Thanksgiving
and fast read all day 27th went off to dig but rained so hard sent back to
camp. 28th inspection and review by Gen. McDowell and staff, knapsacks
on, after dress parade in evening ordered to march our whole division at dark 
by
Ball cross roads. Cavalry and artillery rough March through woods to
Munson's hill. Evacuated by the rebels. Halted at Uptons hill
slept all night no covering, raining all night 29th felt very stiff, officers
got us some whiskey from commissary went out chopping. Oct. 1st regt. Under

Capt. king guarding men at work easy time under him. 2nd 3rd near Falls
Church chopping trees, lost my jacket, but found it again still no tents
and raining. 4th , digging on fort. 5th Picket at Falls Church at Dr.Harolds.

Page: 8.

A few books there easy time while there. 6th all quiet. 7th terrible
Rainstorm all night still no tents, 8th chilly and wet had to on fort on 9th
10th tents came at last felt at home once more. 11th digging on fort « day.
12th same, 13th same dull all quiet. 14th 15th digging. 16th on guard, 17th
out on a scout, Dunne, Dempsary Ferguson and myself went fear Fairfax
hospital.all around. Country had a good time had Dinner with pickets of
25th. Got to camp about 9 at night. 18th nothing to do. 19th digging at
fort soon came back and it rained hard. 20th, Sunday. Brigade inspection
Ladies Prescut. 24th went beyond Fall Church with Dunn and Webster had to
dodge Pickets coming back. Had hot Pumpkin Pie at a home at Falls Church.
Got to camp after drill parade. 21st quiet on guard. 22nd rain day and
night on guard miserable weather, 23rd right wing out digging, cold night
24th on police very cold. Lieut. Casey of Co b died, Diarrhea, 25th Reg
brigade and knapsack drill 26 drill CO and battalion in afternoon Sunday 27th 
all quiet.
Col left for Albany several officers went with him to Washington on horseback

Page: 9

Uptons Hill October 1861 27, sergeant from 22nd buried at Fall Church. 28th 
skeleton Drill went digging. Potatoes. Co drill in afternoon and concert in
evening by the NY Ethiopian minstrels and dedicated to Gen. Keys Brigade. The
Gen. and staff and several ladies was present and well pleased. 30th on guard,
Brigade Drill 31st. Brigade inspections and muster washed clothes in
afternoon.
Nov 1st on police 2nd heavy rain all day 3rd Sunday quiet all day writing.
4th went 2 miles away to brigade drill. 5th same. 6th brigade drill in mud
after heavy rain on 5th at night 7t h on Picket at falls church took our
knapsacks along answered letters on picked. Was stationed at a house known
as Dan Delaneys an old darky 80 years old was all left in the house went
serenading at night when off picket beyond the lines with lieut. C and 5 or
6 comrades. Had to go through swamps and woods and cross over streams to
avoid our pickets to get to the house after serenading, 4 young ladies
invited us for refreshments. Declined as the hour was late and we were all

> mud from out tramp went back to our pickets to relieve them 8th relieved.

9th,Division Reviewed by Gen. McDowall Brigades.

Page: 10

1st Keyes 2nd Wadsworth 3rd Wisconsin Regiments of Cavalry and 4 batteries
of artillery of about 15000 men all told after passing in review. Rained
hard and went back to camp. Sunday reg. inspection by Col. Washed clothes in
afternoon. 11th on guard. Paid off in afternoon $26, at 13 a month for 2
months. Off guard at night. Plenty whiskey don't know where it came from and
did not care, some of our boys had a row with the hoe handles Co. no one
hurt. Plenty noise. 12th considerable fun in camp, had a shake hands with
Father Scully. Very nice man, he did not stay long. Ordered to all in for
brigade. Drill was Munsons Hill only 30 of our CO to report, rest off some
place after got to the Parade Ground ordered back, letter and pair of
gloves from home. Gave Capt. King $15.to send mother all in treasury
notes.13th
Brig. Drill near railings Col. Phelps in command. Had fun in the afternoon

selling apples for a Peddler. Plenty to drink. 14th on picket at r. road
crossing, searched wagons stopped all without a Pass. Many drunk about camp.
Rained hard in evening .

Page: 11

A recruit for 7th Michigan left behind by his comrades stayed
with us all night. Gave his breakfast next morning. 15th relieved on picket
by 22nd very muddy, LADLIE BOX CAME EVERYTHING PERISHABLE SPOILED EXCEPT
WHISKEY. GOT MY BOTTLE AND 3 LETTERS ALL THAT WAS LEFT OF MY STUFF.
Company jovial all day. 2 big fellows of the 24th reg. Picked a row with
myself
and Dunn and another in defending Dunn biggest fellow gave me a black eye.
Got satisfaction later, 16th. Battalion drill and blank cartridge firing.
50 men sent out on a foraging expedition under Capt. Lansing and 2nd Lieut.
Andrews. 6 wagons 24 horses all told about 4p.m.2 of the party returned
without their rifles and reported Keleher and Hunter shot and all the rest
prisoners but soon after Keleher came in with his musket and later on Flynn
without his cartridge box all our Co came in but Sgt. Webster was captured.
Capt. Lansing, Lieut. Andrews 5 wagons, 20 horses and about 30 privates.
Col. ordered every man in line in 5 minutes to go in pursuit but Col.Sullivan 
of the 24th

____________________________________________________________________________
_.
Page:12.

The men were now very mad on account of it. They wanted vengeance on
the REBS. Sunday 17th at noon got orders to fall in line at once all who
wished
to go under Capt. King and his Co and scour the woods in the neighborhood of 
the Capture.

All our Co. not on duty went and several from the other companies numbering 
110 in all. 

We came up to a large party and were about to fire on them 3 times our numbers 
but discovered in time

they were our own men the 8th NY Dutches. Could find no enemy but took old man 
Duliss prisoner.

The man who betrayed our men. Found 4 of the muskets thrown away
on our road back and 2 cartridge boxes . Got back to camp. Very tired. 18th
On review left wing on picket Mcdowal sent after left wing. It was a grand
sight to see Cavalry artillery and infantry. Col. Frisbie, acting
brigades, as he was and Col. G. Keyes in command of a div on the other
side of the river Potomac, after supper fell in line to go help 14 reported
they were surrounded all in line, order countermanded, one 14th man came
in reported one of his comrades shot after shooting a rebel Capt. All 14th in 
picket 8 or 10 prisoners taken.

Page: 13.

Nov 61. Relieved by 22nd, a Liuit Campbell 2 of 14 found dead in the
woods, all mashed up. Reb lost several don't know how many as they carried 
their
men off in a wagon. Rebs known as Stewards Cavalry. 22nd had a quick
time. 20th Nov. Largest review was seen in the County at Baileys Cross roads.
70,000 men, 55,000 of their infantry, 100 pieces of artillery and the rest
cavalry. Gen. McClellans now in command in Scotts Place with his staff.
President sec.Cameron, sec of State and a Large number from Washington and
other places. Our regt. was on picket could not attend review. We
expected on attack on picket line all day. 21st got back from picket relieved 
by
the 24th. Nov 22nd answered several letters on guard rain all night. 23rd.
Nov, Lieut. Campbell gone home recruiting for the reg. Also Capt. Pruyn. 24th
Sunday Regt inspection 25. Battalion drill with blank cartridge. Corp. of
Co. K died, said to be too much whiskey. 26th battalion drill and blank
cartridge, attended the funeral of Corp his body sent home 27th
Battalion and cartridge firing 28th no drill, Thanksgiving Day.

Page: 14, Nov and Dec, Uptons hill

> Proclamation of Gov. Morgan read and sermon from Chaplain very dull day
> rained hard at night. 29th very muddy no drill. Wrote letters. 30th went
> after Father Scully to camp of 9th Mass for Coleman who was very sick he

was not at camp. I had a muddy walk several miles. Paid $2.00 for a pair of
leggins at 14th sutters had a good dinner when I got back of things we got
from home. With Ferguson after dinner Father Scully called to see Coleman.
Very muddy. Dec 1st Sunday Regt went on picket, I was on Camp guard. Very
cold. Got letters from home all well. 2nd washed my clothes. Regt back from
picket with a deserter. 3rd Battalion drill wrote letters 4th same drill
5th, on picket again, pickets not placed in good way too far apart and reserve
too far back 6th relieved by 35th at dress parade. Abe Olin and several
senators present. Coleman died and body sent home.
7th division reviewed, very muddy, foggy, Gov. Morgan present.

Page: 15

Gen. Mcdowell and other generals. Very tired after I got back. Letter
came. Sunday 8th wrote letters. 2 brothers Morrison and Finnegan. 9th raised 
tent
with logo after dinner long role beat to fall in when in line orders 
countermanded.
10th div. drill at cross roads Baileys. 2 boxes came from home
with quilts for the boys in co. 11th boxes opened on picket at the R. road,
in box was vest tippet paper and envelops for me. Very cold night on
picket. Could get no sleep. 12th headache all day from want of sleep did
not drill. 13th ordered out for inspection but no inspector came. Div drill
in afternoon got more letters from home. Feel bad for the boys who have no
loved ones at home to get letters from. They look so sad when the mail
comes and no letters for them 14th div drill and sham battle. Sunday 15th
wrote home and attended service at 10 AM 16th review near r.road in full 
marching orders, whole Brigade.

Page: 16, Dec 61

In line at 8 « o'clock. Gen. McDowall and staff with our new brigade
commander Gen. Augur. 17th arms stacked all day in Co strict ready to
receive our new general. He did not come. 18th sent chopping forenoon in
afternoon div drill at old grounds and another grand sham battle with a
great many civilians snobs from the city of Washington they enjoyed the fun
better than we did with our heavy load on back and double quick.. 19th no
drill wrote letters, fixed up our streets with evergreens getting ready for
Christmas. 20th Brigade inspection in afternoon with Knapsacks, 3 letters
from home. Sat 21at 8 « AM ordered on picket for 2 days to relieve 22nd.
Took but 1 days rations as the rest was to be sent us cold night. Saw a
party of the enemy a distance, suppose they were on same duty as ourselves.
all quiet. Sunday 22nd rations was fixing for 24 hours more when were
relieved by the 23rd NY one of Co.E men killed coming from picket by
fooling with another. Same old story but he knew it was loaded and all ready 
to go
off. One more fool gone. Felt very tired after I got back to camp. 

Page: 17 
Rained all night 23rd, man that was shot, body sent home to Poughkeepsie. Rain 
all
night wind very rough so I could not sleep.. expected our tents to blow
away. 24th very cold heavy wind still blowing answered letters. Big case
from home came with good things for our company, turkey, pie and other good
things too numerous to name. A party of 12 of us messed together and we
were all very happy and jovial if we were from home, eat drank and sang
songs until 12 at night. 25th Christmas Wednesday, splendid nice day like
summer rather lonesome thinking of home. Each man got a pie and every 4 men
a turkey. All the boys from LANSINGBURGH in the other companies and there
was several a man invited to spent the day with us. Big box came in the
afternoon with good things in it, at night a party of us enjoyed ourselves 
Page: 18 
with hot stuff and had a good time 26th, guard at Railroad, first day for
brigade guard. 27th regt. Out on a foraging Party 24th and 23rd and 2 other
Regt with a party of cavalry got back all night they had about 90 wagons in
the train. 28th division drill could not go out was lame. New recruits
came to regt. Took Tommy Kent and Kennedy in our tent. Got letters and
answered them. 29th Sunday fine day. Not many attended service. The
chaplain hoped those who stayed sway would surely go to heaven. 30th no
drill 31st. Recruits sent to Co H. Hoorack inspected and mustered for next
pay. Inspector complimented us for cleanliness of person and arms. Could
not sleep at night for the firing New Year in at 12 o'clock. All the bands
in the division struck up it was fine a good many of the boys finished the
old year out in a noisy manner. Jan 1st 1862 unusually fine day felt lonesome, 
thinking of home although 
Page: 19 
plenty of fun afloat, foot races running
in sacks, chasing a pig, greased and shared for prizes. No one outside the
regiment allowed to enter the lists each Co won a prize the boys of 14th
Brooklyn was in luck near all of them over the Bay in the afternoon washed
my clothes. Got letters at night 2nd brigade drill. Wrote home. 3rd div
drill and sham battle with 20 rounds of blank cartridge. Very nice and
exciting and interesting to visitors to see the solid columns of infantry
marching up to support the Batteries first on the right wing and again in
the center we being in the center, we had a battery on each side of us to
support the cavalry charge. Was exciting and was a grand sight-men pitched
head first out of their saddles, while their horses kept in line same as if
the rider was on his back at. Night. Rain and hail fell. 4th Jan. cold
day and snowing no drill. 
Page: 20 
5th fine but cold and snowed all day. 6th Brig.
Drilled snowed all day and night cold 7th cold battalion drill 8th cold and
sloppy Co..and Batt drill. Rained all-night and slippery hard walking. 9th
wrote home rained all night. 10th on picket at the front whole Regt for 8
hours. Our Co. turned out 60 men rank and mile marching through mud like
walking through fields of glue. Up to over our knees, also heavy fog. Our
co. with G and K on the reserve first 24 hours. We amused ourselves around
our Bivouac fires as best we could and at night by singing songs telling
stories and the Col. Major doctor and other officers sat with us for some
time and enjoyed it especially the Doc with his cough medicine, alias
gin bottles. I was invited to try the medicine on the condition that I
would sing but I politely declined and told him I did not use the article.
No sleep all night. 11 Sat., after breakfast, the companies on reviewed
relieved those on duty on outposts.

Page: 21 Jan. 1862 Uptons hill.

12th pleasant. Relieved by the 20th NY of Wadsworth brigade very muddy and
hot going back to camp. Civilians we met at Falls Church pitied our
condition. After we got back to camp saw John Ames, and Cap Noyes, and
Whipple and had a good shake hands with my old boss Jon Ames. Got a good
deal of information from him on business and other matters of interest.
Rained at night and on 13th co. and batt. drill. Ames and co. left camp.
Cold at night and snow. 14th plenty of snow and very cold. No drill
answered letters. Cold at night and Hail. 15th rain and very cold, no
drill. Got letters. All well at home. 16th no drill. Charles Clark the
tailor Mr. Writer and Shook arrived in camp. Had friendly talk with
charley they came to see the sights of camp life. 17th wrote home paid in
treasury notes for last 2 months. 
Page: 22 
Bought paper 4 envelopes bought a stove for our tent 4 of us together. 
Our new comers were Fred Bauer and brother in law John Kirkpatrick. 
Stove and fixins cost $3.50. Got letter from White
Creek from Jas. Reilly stating my cousin John Flood was in the 6th Wisconsin 
Kings Brigade. 
Our Division. 18th on guard rain all day strict orders
against any one leaving camp. Guard not allowed from guard house when on
duty. Sunday 19th raining all day. Had sent home $14. And wrote letters.
20th. Still reining, very muddy. Got letters rain all night 21st still
raining but light. 22nd Saw 6th Wisconsin return from picket did not see
Flood as he passed before I got a chance they had it rough on picket. 

Page: 23 

Plenty of mud nothing new. 24th on guard John G. McMurray left after a
night. Orders strict very stormy. Lieut. Campbell got back Conroy Tom
Kelly and 4 other recruits came with him got some things from home. Good time
with the boys at night PAGE 23, Upton Hill, Tom Kelly staid with us all night. 
25th unwell,
too good a time night before. Sunday 26th muddy and lonesome wrote home.
Forgot to state that John G. McMurry while visiting with us sat in our tent
quite a while talked on various subjects. 27th Co. and Bat Drill. T.Kelly
still with us, rain hard at night. 28th no drill Rain. Inspection by Gen.

> McDowell postponed on account of rain. 29th very muddy. 30th on guard,
> raining all day 3qst Regt on picket did not have to go as I was not off
> guard yet. Myself and t. Kelly lived pretty well on extras. Feb 1st on
> guard again all quiet. Sunday 2nd had a good dinner Regt. back from

picket, Rescued Sergt Smith of Co. G. from being all burned up. I pulled him 
out of
his tent and he was asleep whit it was all in a blaze and his clothes on
fire. 3rd showering hard no drill. Got letter from East troy Wisconsin
from sister. 4th all quiet. 5th Co drill and inspection. 6TH RAINING AND
FREEZING ALL DAY. 7TH ON GUARD AT THE PICKET. 
Page: 24 
Sunday 9th all quiet, 10th Co. drill and skirmish drill first time 11th Feb, 
fine day, 12th, dress parade at 9
am. Private of Co I. Named Thos..McDonald, alias Nickey the goat got drummed
out for being a general nuisance and striking his Capt. He was sent to
Georgetown penitentiary for 6 months. He did not seem to care. 13th all
quiet. 14th wrote letters, very cold on Guard. 15th Plenty of snow
volunteers asked to serve on Gunboats from our division for southwest. 60
wanted 5 from each company. Volunteers as they did not want any one except
those who understood sailoring and how to handle cannon. Roanoke Island
reports taken on 13th with 3000 prisoners in the evening news of fort
Donalson being taken with the evacuation of Bowling Green. 8000 prisoners.
Great cheering Sunday, 16th fine day 17th Morrison left for Fort Louis to
serve on gun boat only one from Regt. Ed Remington. 

Page: 25 Feb 1962. Upton Hill

Leave some time said he was captured outside our lines taken to Richmond and
escaped at night from prison said he was on Roanoke Island when Gen.
Burnside bombarded it. Escaped from a rebel gun boat-swam to Burnsides
fleet and gave him news how to reach the Island. How much truth was in it he
knew best however the Gen. He said gave him a pass and letters to Gen.
McClellan who ordered him to join his regt. He name however did not appear
in Gen. Orders and no report of his bravery mentioned. Great cheering on
dress parade on report of Fort Donaldson taken and 15000 prisoners. Gen.
Floyd and Gen. Pillow escaped at night 400 killed and 800 wounded reported
on our side. 18th. out practicing target shooting. Reported capture of
Savanna Ga. 19 rain all day. 20th cold. 21st went on picket 48 hours a
prisoner brought in to our line by cavalrymen while on scout near Fairfax.
Very stubborn and well armed. 

Page: 26 Feb 62 Upton Hill 

The Col. sent him under guard to guard house. 22nd on Post great firing in 
honor of Washington's birthday. Jeff. Davis to be inaugurated today . 
Prisoners taken at Dulins House by the pickets of left wing. Nashville
reported taken, rain all night Sunday 23rd Relieved by 20th NY very tired.
24th on guard at railroad very cold and rain wind high great damage reported 
in Wash. Steeples blown down and buildings tents torn in pieces at thecamps 
and some cases trees torn up by the roots. 25th fine day. Co drill.
Col. Wood of 14th Brooklyn back from Richmond was taken prisoner at Bull Run 
and now exchanged. Regt turned out to receive him in a speech he told the boys 
they would soon be home. Will they? Heard from J. Leary 1st Mass at Budds 
Ferry. Wrote letters 26th target shooting, orders to be all ready to march at 
a moments notice and all officers not to be absent from there. 

Page:27 Feb 62 

Orders read no baggage allowed with officers but a carpet bag. 4 wagons to 
each Regt. All women ordered from camp and all.Looks like a move. 
Heard firing at night 24th very windy and cold. Webster back after prisoner
in Richmond Right wing of Army reported on advance. Very windy felt sick
caught cold. 28th Muster and inspections, very windy and cold, got letters.
Sat March 1st 1862 cold roads hard. Sunday 2nd forenoon fine. Afternoon
snow. Packed up extra clothing to store away. Co. detailed as skirmish
also Co. B.,3rd, rain at night, sloppy, target practice in forenoon. Skirmish
drill in the afternoon at dress parade Washington's farewell address read.
Regt formed in a square. Letter from Jersey City (A.K) Target practice and
skirmish. 5th got light shelter tents to carry with us. 3 men together each
man to carry his 2 pieces as they are bottomed together. Threw over a pole
each end resting on crotch in ground and pegged down with a piece at the ends 
Page: 28 
completed the whole it could be made as long as you wanted to, by
stretching out the pieces, but had to crawl on your knees to get in it was
so low. Battalion drills in full marching orders with each man having his
pieces of tent in knapsack. Skirmish drill in afternoon. 6th skirmish drill
and target practice fine day. 7th on guard very cold, letters, 8th felt
unwell. Brig drill in afternoon with knapsacks practiced pitching our new
tent 4 and one half-hour drill. No fun for the money. 9th Sunday fine day
knapsack inspection. Sent home letters by Mrs. Buck she came on to try to
get her son Mike off but could not. All routed up at 12 at night orders to
march at 5am. Great excitement. 10th left at 8am to Baileys Cross roads.
Men kept dropping out on march, teamster from Jersey Brigade said his
Brigade has camped 2 miles beyond Fairfax, had with him rebels horses one
was mounted in a fight wher 4 rebels was 
Page: 29 
killed and 12 taken prisoners all the troops on the move grand sight men very 
tired near Fairfax and was dropping out on the road. Some threw away some of 
their things. At Fairfax some
rough earthworks was thrown up. It is a very ancient looking village with
some large but miserable looking houses, saw some plain looking women there
the
men so tired some even threw away their knapsacks. It was a hard march for
the first one the order to rest on the road was given after and about 5
miniutes at a time when I first started the load was nothing, but at night it
weighed a ton. When I sat down to rest and then tried to get up. Could
hardly move my feet. PATRIOTISM IS VERY SELDOM APPRECIATED BY THOSE WHO DON'T
KNOW THE HARDSHIP OF A CAMPAIGN THE FEELING AT THE TIME I CANNOT. After 18 or
more miles halted for the night near Wadsworth Brigade.

Page: 30 March 62 
when the Regt halted for the night. I lay down exhausted and soon fell asleep. 
My 2
comrades after a while arrived and pitched the tent and after eating some
hard tack all lay down for the night 11th awoke feeling little better rained
on the march at 10am the whole brigade was in line Gen. McDowell and
McClellan with staffs rode along, the men cheered McClellan he saluted the
troops with hat off. Men have confidence in him, more in McDowell. Next
camp near Centerville the place reported evacuated as also Bull Run and
Manasses and Forts destroyed, no mail since 9th a General order read in
regard to stealing and killing pigs, hens, and provost guard posted at the
houses to protect property. One of the Wadsworth men reported shot for> 
stealing sheep. Batl drill in afternoon, nothing to eat for supper large force 
of cavalry went toward Manasses. 
Page: 31 
12th nothing for breakfast. Orders read on dress parade forbidding the men 
leaving camp. 
Contrabands came in to camp from Wanneton, fine looking fellows. Reported they 
had to work on the
forts at Centerville and Manasses. Brigade went to Centerville stacked arms 
on the fort and the men allowed 3 hours to look around. I went to Bull Run 
looked over the Battlefield Some of the Bodies only partly covered by a woman
at a house nearby by where we had dinner. Said the Louisiana tigers dug some
of
the bodies up. Got back as the brigade was ready to move off the where we
left, 5 miles back from Centerville to Battleground. 13th Batt Drill. 14th
Skirmish drills in forenoon, Brig in afternoon. Jim Dargas was on and was to
take some letters home. 15th sat. Went on the march with 2 days rations
before we marched, Gen. McClellans order was read to the Brigade.
.
Pg: 32, Gen. McCLELLANS ADDRESS TO THE ARMY OF THE POTOMAC.

> MARCH 15 1862 

Headquarters army of the Potomac. Fairfax court house Va.

Soldiers of the army of the Potomac for a long time I have kept you
inactive, but not without a purpose. You were to be disciplined armed and
instructed, the formidable artillery you now have had to be created. Other
armies were to move and accomplish certain results I have held you back that
you might give the deathblow to the Rebellion which has distracted our once
happy country. The patience you have shown and your confidence in your
general are worth a dozen of victories. These preliminary results are now
accomplished(?) I feel that the patient labors of many months have
produced their first the army of the Potomac is now a real army.

Page: 33 March 15, 62 McClelland Address Continued:
.
Disciplined and excellently equipped and armed. Your commanders are all that
I could wish. The moment for actions has arrived and I know that I can
trust in you to save our Country. As I ride through your ranks, I see in
your faces sure prestige of victory. I feel that you will do whatever I ask
you the period of inaction has passed. I will bring you face to face with
the Rebels and only pray that God may defend the right in what ever
direction you may move, however strange my actions may seem to you, ever
bear in mind that my fate is linked with yours, and all I so is to bring you
where I know you wish to be, on the decisive Battlefield. It is my business
to place you there. I am to watch over you as a parent over his children
and you know that your general loves you from the depths of his heart it MARCH
15 1862 

Headquarters army of the Potomac. Fairfax court house Va.

Soldiers of the army of the Potomac for a long time I have kept you
inactive, but not without a purpose. You were to be disciplined armed and
instructed, the formidable artillery you now have had to be created. Other
armies were to move and accomplish certain results I have held you back that
you might give the deathblow to the Rebellion which has distracted our once
happy country. The patience you have shown and your confidence in your
general are worth a dozen of victories. These preliminary results are now
accomplished(?) I feel that the patient labors of many months have
produced their first the army of the Potomac is now a real army.

Page: 33 March 15, 62 McClelland Address Continued:
.
Disciplined and excellently equipped and armed. Your commanders are all that
I could wish. The moment for actions has arrived and I know that I can
trust in you to save our Country. As I ride through your ranks, I see in
your faces sure prestige of victory. I feel that you will do whatever I ask
you the period of inaction has passed. I will bring you face to face with
the Rebels and only pray that God may defend the right in what ever
direction you may move, however strange my actions may seem to you, ever
bear in mind that my fate is linked with yours, and all I so is to bring you
where I know you wish to be, on the decisive Battlefield. It is my business
to place you there. I am to watch over you as a parent over his children
and you know that your general loves you from the depths of his heart. 
  
branch. Kept on
the look out and threw up barricades in the road at Noon. 6th Wisconsin
relieved us and we followed on main body. Marched on when at 8PM Gen.
Gibbons orderly met with our Adjt. and told him to report to the Gen. The Col.
told us how far we had to go about 8 miles farther and likely to have a fight 
in the morning.
We felt in trim.

Page: 65

Just then for it reached the halting place, for the night at 12
o'clock and we lay on the wet damp grass all night. 26th. Woke up at
daylight wet and stiff. Hunted around for water to make coffee, but ordered
to march at once. On the road after going about 2 miles the battery was
halted and marked on the road side, left wing of our Regt. remained to
support it and the 23rd NY little farther back, right wing of our regt.
under Col. Searing went ahead to the support of 2nd Wisconsin, the Cavalry,
and the Skirmishers. We halted a little way from them. The Page: 34 

It shall be my care as it has ever been to gain success with the least
possible
loss. But I know you will willingly follow me to our graves for our
righteous cause. God smiles upon us. Victory attends us; yet, I would not
have you think that our aim is to be obtained without a manly struggle. I
will not disguise it from you that you have foes to encounter. foe men
well worthy of the steel that you will use so well. I shall demand of you
great and heroic exertions rapid and long marches desperate combats and
prinations, we will share all these together. And when this sad war is over,
we will return to our homes and feel that we can ask no higher honor than
the proud consciousness that we belonged to the Army of the Potomac.

> GEORGE B MCCLELLAN MAJOR Gen. COMMANDING.

That order was received with enthusiasm. 

Page: 35 
  
March 15th 1862. Started on march back for Alexandria about 23 miles,
rained all the day. Had to cross several streams swollen by the rain above
our knees, bet clean through within about 3 miles of Alexandria. It rained
in torrents at McCloud's Mills. Had to cross a stream that raised 10 feet in 
2 or 3 hours. 2 men and 3 horses with wagon drowned. Myself and Dunn
succeeded in crossing on a large tree felled so it crossed the stream like a
bridge in the delay Regt. Got scattered. Felt almost dead, so exhausted
reached Alexandria at dark all places ordered closed. Met a black man who
conducted us to a place where we got whiskey. His own included. We also got
supper and tried to dry our clothes. Hired a bed for the night, a sucker
belonging to the provost guard who got his whiskey for nothing from the
proprietor, went off and made a complaint that the man who sold whiskey to us
provost Came could find no whiskey , stole 2 silver mounted revolvers from 

Page: 36 
  
The proprietor and took him off to the slave pen. He was fined 10 dollars
next morning for selling liquor to soldiers 38 more arrested for same. .
Could not get our clothes dry as the rain poured through the roof on us in
bed. Felt bad in the morning Sunday 16th woke up had to wring my pants
before I put them on were as wet as when I took them off night before. Had
a drink and some breakfast went to hunt up the regt. The proprietors son
gave us a card with his address. It was no. 233 King Street. Found the Regt. 
After a while they were quartered in an Episcopal Church. The
minister was arrested a week before for preaching secession. When we got
there the Regt was all in line, orders to go back to old camp at Uptons
Hill. Went back to King St. and got our traps old man back from jail
swearing vengeance against spy who gave him away and stealing his revolver
and cigars. When we reached Regt again they were in line at depot ready to 
take the train to
old camp to Uptons Hill. Train very slow engine no good, 5 hours going 8
miles. 
  
Page: 37 
  
Got to old camp about 9pm very cold. 17th. Cold day. Jim Dargen went
home no drill. 18th fine wash day ordered at 3pm to march 2-day rations.
Packed up wet shirts as they were left at 3. Marched about 4 miles. Camped
on side hill on Alexandria road about 3 miles from city. Felt cold. 19th
cold and chilly rained all night. 20th. Ordered for review, order again
countermanded on account of the rain. Rained all night. It poured through our
tent down our necks and back, not pleasant. Grand night at night to see all
the camp fires as far as the eyes could reach. 21st. Dull wrote, rained
again all night 22nd got letter from home with money in it, rained again all
night 23rd Sunday quiet 24th Saw john Flood of Wisconsin, brigade, 25th went
with J..Flood to Alexandria had a good time. Regt. was out on review when I
got back. 26th cold role called 5 times and plenty drilling. Cold night
drew a pair pants.   
  
27th fine day out 
  
Page: 38 
  
On review. Lord Lyons and several 
Europeans Nobles present. Gen. McDowell and McClellan. 28 Co and Batt
drill. 29th Co. drill snowed all day rained all night. Sunday 30th went
with J. Flood and sergeant Mangin of their Regt. 6th Wisconsin to Alexandria
had a good time got back at dark. Letters from home. 31st. Co and
Batt.drill. April 1st 1862. Went to old camp and washed clothes warm day.
Brig. Drill in afternoon. 2nd no mail men about camp raising the devil with
peddlers kicking over their wagons and co. brig drill 3rd very windy and
dusty. Capt. Chrysler new Major treated the Regt. 4th on guard Adjt.
Bentley left camp to join 63 Regt, Irish Brigade as major. He was well liked
by the men. His regt. to embark today, div inspection ordered
countermanded. We had to fall in line at 3pm with 3 days rations, forward
toward Manasses our brigade on right of div. Went by Caileys cross roads.
Halted after going 9 miles for the night. 5th moved again at 7 am Rained
hard on reaching Centerville took road to left had road 
  
Page: 39 
  
halted about 4 miles beyond Bull Run. Felt tired after marching 19 miles. 
Halted for the night,
6th Sunday, took a good wash before we started at 7 am crossed Manasses
plains, saw several graves of Mississippi soldiers with inscription on
boards at the head. Splendid place for a battle. Had to wade through a
large and deep stream. Water up to our waist. A mile on the stream halted
about 9 miles from our last nights stopping. Place very hot-day got letters
with money and stamps. 7th Co. inspection at 8am. Snowed all day and
night, had to sleep in my wet clothes. 8th felt miserable, snow and rain
all day. Now at Bristoe. News came at night to the Col. from McDowell of
capture on islands No. 10 with all their boats some Iron Clods large size
guns ammunition and a large number of prisoners. Some escaped in the night.
Slept another night in wet clothes. No chance to dry them. 9th woke up wet
and miserable. Snowed all day and cold wind blowing hard and snowed all
night. 
  
Page: 40 
  
10th, cold and cleared up. some dress parade at 5pm orders read to
us that Gen. McDowell takes charge of the dept. lying east of the Blue Ridge
and west of the Potomac to the Rappahonack and apart from McClellans, forces
known as the Grand Army. 11th fine, news of battle at Cornith with
Beauregard and Johnson on the rebel side and Grant and Buel on the Union.
Rebels defeated. Johnson killed and Beauregard reported lost an arm, but
not confirmed, heavy loss on both, and ours said to be 18000 or 20000 men
and the Rebs 28000 or 30000 but not authentic. Greatest battle of the
campaign. Fight lasted 3 days. It was called BATTLE OF PITTSBURGH LANDING.
News came of battle at Yorktown. Rebs defeated. Dress parade at 6 new move
adopted sending for the colors while dress parade was going on. 12th fine
no drill. Men allowed to wash and clean up. Reported surrender of
Beauregard, not confirmed. Beautiful day. Franklins division of McDowells 
Corps. went to Alexandria.

Page: 41 April 62 Bristoe 

And from there to join McClellan. 13th moved about 1 and « mile to a
splendid grove to camp. Rumored we are on detached service to watch out for
Guerrillas and guard R.Roads in Prince William County. 14th Co drill and
batt. Some farmers came in and took the oath and asked for a guard to their
premises. Some soldiers, ignorant ones, abused them. 15th. Rain, batt. Drill
at 2pm. Double quick orders at 4 to march left camp and went along the
railroad. 2nd Wisconsin was on guard on R.Roads. Had marching at night in
the dark. Went about 7 miles to Catlett station then to the left by
McDowells head quarters. Halted in a wood after going 8 miles. Wagons got
left behind. 16th fine dress parade at 8am. Batt in afternoon very hot
orders to leave at 6 next morning. 17th left at 8 am route to the left
through fields and woods crossed several creeks, many threw away their
knapsacks very hot day, after going about 9 or 10 miles.

Page: 42

Came up with rebel pickets our cavalry drove them. Country about here looked 
fine after going about 15 miles halted very tired and pitched tents, but had
to move in 2 hours while there I was on guard went 5miles further in all 20
miles that day. Lay down to rest in wood routed up at 1 am got half on hour
to cook coffee moved on slowly as the wagons was in our charge, had to be
very cautions enemy retiring before our advance halted at 8am for coffee and
let all the wagons get up some were stuck in the mud. Myself and Dunn tried
to buy some food at a house near by but could not get it they reported to us
about the fight at Yorktown. 18th while waiting for the wagon train rest of
the brigade got ahead about 4 « miles from the Rappahonnock. Capt. Hodge
rode back ordered us to hurry up and we would be soon up with the rest, next
some cavalry came along and reported hot walk before us.

Page:43

Next came along ambulance wagons with wounded. Things began to look like work.

Soon, a squad of cavalry past us on the fly. We soon reached the place where 
the brigade doctor stopped and the wounded was brought there as the fight took
place a little farther on. Between some of the Harris Cavalry supported by a
few of 1st Penn against a battalion of Rebs infantry and cavalry. We threw up
our knapsacks before we reached this place left a guard over them and prepared
for battle. Our men did not see the Rebs as they were behind breast works
until they fired a volley from behind into our men 7 and a lieut. was
killed. Lieut. Col. Kilpatrick had his horse shot we passed 3 of our men
dead on the road and several horses ambulances busy. Saw one man burying
his comrade, we followed the enemy double quick but they got over the bridge
at Fredericsburgh and fired it before all their men got over,

Page 44: 18 April 1862 at Falmouth

our cavalry close on their heels. Took 5 prisoners. Killed and wounded several 
of the enemy.
Falmouth is quite a village. The bands played Yankee Doodle going through.
We camped on the heights saw the enemy retreating over the hills on
Fredericsburgh side, our knapsacks did not come slept in mud all night. No
cover and it rained all night. 19th the Gen. notified the authorities of
Fredericsburgh to surrender or he would shell the city. They did so.
Knapsacks came fine day slept well all night. 20th Easter Sunday wet
miserable day. Gen. Patrick's brigade arrived on 19th 12 hours or more
behind he gave us the title of the IRON BRIGADE for making such good time.
Dress parade and religious service afternoon, the Col. complimented us for
doing well on our March. 21st wet a black man came in to camp and reported
40 of the enemy killed on the 18th from our shells, the battery done well.
B.Battery Gibbons Regulars.

Page: 45, at Falmouth, April 1862.

Rained very hard all day, 22nd fine. Co. Lee reported to be in command of
the Rebels here abouts, his forces said to be a Battalion of infantry and 1
cavalry, 2 Batteries of Artillery, the wenches flocked into camp to see the
soldiers and listen to the Band. 23rd fine day, Wisconsin troops brought
our mail were 3 days coming, cold night and heavy wind. 24th. cold morning
and snowing turned to rain and rained rest of day and all night. 25th wet
morning and nothing to eat. Commissary empty, no crackers, sugar or
anything else. 26th Paid off $26.00 sent mother draft for $20.00. Report
that a mail carrier was lost with the mail and drowned but he turned up.
27th Sunday fine day, dried my clothes that I washed on day before. Service
at dress parade. 28th Co. Drill and Batt. 29th New Orleans reported captured,
dress parade at 9 am ordered to fix up for muster and inspection at 10 AM
for 30th. 30th capture of New Orleans confirmed. Rained all night and felt
sick last 4 days. May 1st Review at Gen. Kings headquarters. 

Page: 46, May 62, at Falmouth.

Our brigade by Gen. McDowell and some English Nobles. Saw some held
deserters in Uniform. Rain all night. 2nd Co. drill fine day Batt. at 4.
3rd hot day on guard, formed our camp into streets. Bought a knife, Sunday
4th hot day bought a pair suspenders had my hair cut and drew a pair of
shoes. Dress parade and service at 5. Yorktown reported evacuated got news
at noon from headquarters, felt unwell all night 5th got a powder from the
doctor, rained some, whole Regt got leggins, rain all night. Tuesday 6th
skirmish drill and Batt in afternoon all with leggins on. Number of NY
troops in service so far reported by Washington Republican of May. 5th
infantry,105 Regts. Cavalry ll artillery 5th Pennsylvania 68___?__ __?__ _?___
7th Co. and Batt. Drill 8 on guard hot day. Joyful news reported McClellan
drove the Rebs beyond Williamsburgh and Gen. Pope captured. 2000 Rebs near
Framingha ,saw John Flood.

Pg: 47

9th hot day the Col. Marched us beyond the battleground of the 18th
APL, felt sick and tired back at dark. 10th washed my clothes and got
medicine from doctor. Windy, report McClellan had the Rebs surrounded.
Sunday11th hot news at night McClellan 20 miles from Richmond and the
Merimac blew up. Norfolk in our possession. News by telegraph, great
cheering while at supper orders came to fall in at once, cross the river.
Expected a fight but countermanded. A party was out reconnoitering and
drove Rebs took a Lieut. And 18 prisoners. 12th hot Co. and Batt. Drill. No
papers came. 13th very hot brigade drill in afternoon. Wrote letters, 14th
raining, McClellan reported 26 miles from Richmond fell back(6) 15th on
guard rained all day and night. McClellan now 15miles from Richmond 16 fine
day Batt got papers and letters.17th fine drew a pair of drawers and got 1 
pair from C. Keleher.

Page: 48 May 1862 at Falmouth.

Gunboats Left Camp,reported repulsed, 7 miles from Richmond. 19th got
cross belt and returned old one. Battalion drill by Lieut. Co C. blundered.
Offers 70th to work at depot. 21st to 23rd sick, Co at the depot shields div
arrived. 23rd sick Gen. Auguer and Gibbons Brigades received by old Abe and
others; also Shields Div was reviewed. 24th washed wet day orders to be
read to march by 10am on 25th. Sunday 25 one of the 23NY killed in the city
of Fredericsburgh by the explosion of a torpedo and torn to pieces by it.
At 3pm left camp went through Fredericksburg. It is a nice place. Went over
the hill and camped for the night about 6 miles south, saw J.Flood Our
company acted as rear Guard. Country looked beautiful as we passed. 26th
reported repulse of banks in the valley, Shields ordered back to the
Valley. 27th on guard, rained hard before daylight, but day fine. 28th
Hot. 29th orders to march back to Catlett station left at 10am went 15miles
halted for night. 7 miles beyond Falmouth.

Pg: 49 On March to Catlett May 62

30th Resumed our march at 7 am. Very hot felt sick had to rest often,
rained hard in evening, went about 22 miles and halted for the night about
11 miles from Cattlet. Wet night. 31st. Moved early to Catlett. Saw some
of the 104th Regt. there took cars in evening for Manasses and then to White
Plains going all night. Very close in the cars could hardly breathe, one man
was killed and about 40 reported wounded from a collision, said to be the
berdan sharpshooters. This happened before daylight on June 1st Sunday. It
was the intention to capture Jackson, Stonewall, but it was delayed. Left
White Plains for Point Royal, valley, nice place. 150 prisoners reported
taken near there at a late fight and a lot of wagons captured. We had to
stand up in the cars all night, no room to lay down. Gen. Sugur wanted the
engineer of the train to run through, and over a Bridge to Strasburgh at
night but he refused afraid of the bridges being tampered with. Went to

Page: 50

about 12 miles of Strasburgh at daylight 2nd
Engineer examined Bridge, found it sawed halfthrough on underside intending
to kill all on board. Heard heavy firing in distance, supposed to be
Tremont and Jackson at it. Little later heard he escaped to the mountains.
Saw where Col. Ashby, (rebel) lived beyond Blue Ridge. Could not repair
bridge in time to answer our purpose so we were ordered back, reached
Haymarket at dark. After many narrow escapes halted for night. Rain all
night. 3rd, fine went to camp formed it in streets, took a good wash. Our
Co. on guard at night-rain all night. 4th rain all day streams flooded and
rain all night. 5th regular detail for guard begins again. Men had no meat
in 3 days. 6th ordered to march at 7 am to Manenton about 12 miles went as
far as Broad Run, Gibbons Brigade took the right of us, had to cross several
creeks,

Pg: 51 June 1862, at Cedar Run on march.

Crossed Cedar Run on a single plank one man fell in and was nearly drowned
it is the same creek we crossed before on our march near Catlett. Arrived
at Waneuton 7pm Pitched tents, very tired. 7th hot day fixed up camp
reported Capture of 50,000 of Beauregards Army including prisoners,
deserters and ??. 8th Sunday, started for Waneuton to Church with Dunne went
all over the town, pretty place. At 1PM Met a Col. of Gibbons Brigade, told
us to hurry up, as the order was issued to march, found boys all packed up
left camp at 2pm. Through Warrenton to Catlett, a bad road to travel, went
12 miles halted at noon. Pitched our tents on the spot we halted at on the
night of the 30th of may. Dress parade at 6pm. June 10th rained all day
the runs all swelled to torrents. The Gibbons Brigade

Page: 52

left at 6am in rain toward Falmouth but could go
only 4 or 5 miles on account of the roads. Hard for artillery. Memphis
reported taken. 11th the Domince took the mail to Washington. Fine day
dress parade at 6pm. 12th fine day. Jackson reported badly cut-up and
Ashby killed battle between Shields and Jackson advance at Port Republic
valley heavy loss both sides. 13th hot day moved camp about a mile further
and while going got soaked heavy rain with thunder. Laid out camp in
streets but orders came to march early next morning. 14th left early
towards Falmouth hot went about 18 miles, I could not keep up had to drop
out several times, all played out, but got to camp a little after the Regt.
Camped about 8 miles from Falmouth got the first mail we had since we left
Falmouth May 25th or Fredericsburgh 27th. Lots of letters from home, with
paper and stamps heard from Leary near Richmond.

Page: 53 

Sunday June 62. Up at 4am felt sick went about 6 miles tired out. Put
knapsack in doctor's wagon. Got to our old camp at noon. Fixed tents. Put
on guard. 16th, 24th and 22nd NY got paid off. Took a walk to village in
evening of 17th. The Brooklyn and Sharpshooters paid off. On Police.
Officers all off, no drill. 18th our Regt got paid in morning. Our Co.
relieved Co. B on guard at Fredericsburgh, had a good time with a few
comrades at Mannix. Played on the accordian, got well used. Co. B. after
they got paid relieved us again, left there about 5 pm. Rained hard going to
camp a good many fights among G. Co. the hoe handles as they are nicknamed.
They had it with the pioneers( cause whiskey.) 19th fine had a picture
taken, very windy in evening and rainy. 20th sent home the likeness in
Capts. Box. Saw John Flood Batt. At 5PM small party went to village after
supper. 21st. Fine day washed new shirts & drawers.

Page: 54, Sunday 22nd.. 

Hot, knapsack inspection went to Fredericksburg to church with John Flood and
others of his co. (Wisconsin 6th) Saw the tomb of Washington's mother all
defaced, said to be done by rebels. Lots to drink. Saw S.A> was glad to see
me. Had dinner to the house, left at 4pm late for dress parade. 23rd, on
extra guard first since I enlisted. Very hot terrible thunderstorm with
lightning, rain all night. Carried off the bridges across the Rappahonnock.
24th fine 25th. On Guard fine day. Batt. At 5 PM. Wrote home, festival
mentioned in K.'s letter was to be on 24,25,and 26, was 20 years old on
15th. 27th Note on police, my account with the US Government for clothes
leaves me $11.04 ahead of allowance. Spoke for a pass across the river28th
Got pass it was signed by Capt. King and the Col. but returned from Gen.
Augers headquarters not signed as he was leaving to take the
command of King's Division and promoted to Gen. Fremont Command, the latter 
said to have resigned. 

55 June 62 at Falmouth Gen. Auger promoted. 

Page: 55

Pope takes the command of the 3 corps. McDowells, Banks and Fremonts call the 
department
of Virginia all the officers went over the river.
I myself and Valentine took chances on the pass went to Fredicsburgh. Had a
good time and a present of a handkerchief from S. A.M. stayed to dinner.
New potatoes and cabbage got well used? Left at 4PM. Promised to call soon,
again on our return the provost examined our pass at the Pontoon Bridge and
found fault said they knew the Gen. Signed no passes that day. After some
talk they let us go. (I signed the Gen. Name on that pass myself and they
could not detect it.) Got back in time for dress parade, Sunday 29th wet
morning, inspection afternoon, hot and in parade and preaching by Chaplain
of 2nd Berdans sharpshooters. 30th Muster in and inspection at 9am. all looked 
well.

Page: 56, Sunday.

A man of Co E. drowned in the Rappahonnock while bathing
buried today at 1 pm. Batt drill at 5 a committee of 3 from each Regt in
the Brigade appointed to arrange for a little time on the 4th of July and
some fireworks from our Regt, Major Shyster and Capt. Landon. July 1st fine
day drill and inspection at 8 am. The Gen. told the committee not to incur
any expense, as we might not be here on the 4th. Saw J.Flood and took a
walk to the Pontoon Bridge after supper. Went to the Village. 2nd Rain all
day, went to Fredericsburgh with Valentine. Good time at S.A. M. and had
tea there and a present of a gold ring. Left at 6pm asked to call on 4th.
Went on guard at 11 pm in Joe Boyce's place. Rained all night. 3rd. fine
day heavy fighting reported before Richmond Magruder Rebel Gen. With 2000
prisoners reported taken. Continued fighting for 3 days, great excitement.
Richmond reported taken but false, next came news.

Page: 57 At. Falmouth, McClellans retreat to James River.

McClellan fell back to James River, near 30 miles from Richmond fighting all
the way, orders to us, no duty on the 4th except Guard. At Midnight bands
in the vicinity struck up National An. And at sunrise salutes fired, 4th hot
day on Police, in afternoon went with Valentine to Fredericsburgh, good time
plenty to eat and drink got picture from S.A.M Went to the quarters of the
Construction corps good many. Tight in the city. Crossed the railroad
bridge on return to camp, saw Baltimore Sun (paper) it stated McClellan had
7 day fight before Richmond, loss estimated at 20,000 and Rebs 25,000. Got
to camp after dark saw some fire on the gunboat on river. 5th hot day
washed clothes, got letters and answered them. 6th very hot 97 in the
shade, no papers came. Had news from McClellans army, inspection at 8 am.

Page: 58, July 62 at Falmouth

7th very hot went to see dam above Falmouth. Saw where Washington used to
mold cannons, time of Revolution. Splendid view along river. Stopped at the
butchers headquarters and got some meat. Very hot 105 in shade. Back at
noon. Vicksburgh reported taken, not confirmed also Fort Darling . Jackson
reported killed our loss reported 15,000 in 7 days fight. Rebs 20,000.
McClellan reported all right, he issues another address to his army. Orders
read to us that Gen. Augur was to leave us and take Command of a division
under Banks, late Siegel Div. Our men felt sorry to lose Gen. Augur, Col.
Sullivan of 24th NY in command of the Brigade until a General is appointed.
8th hot Brigade in line to bid Gen. Augur goodbye. All wore white gloves.
He rode down the line, hat off, followed by staff, all the men cheered and
was soon dismissed. The Col.'s and all field officers of Brigade called on
him. 

Page: 59, July 6.

Very hot, 105 in shade McClellan reported advanced 7 mile
since 4th. 9th very hot on guard. Nothing new. 10th very hot orders on
dress parade to be ready to march at a moment's notice and wagons carry 10
days rations. Quartermaster ordered to pack up everything to be ready to
leave. 11th no passes allowed. Went with Valentine to Fredericsburgh,
crossed in a boat saw, S.A.M. Good time plenty to eat and drink. Came back
in evening. Crossed in a boat Co.B of our Regt on Provost
duty at city ,all the others sent to join their Regt. John Flood sent to
Fredericsburgh to hospital. Cool night. 12th fine, wash day, after supper
took a walk to the river, saw Mr. Arnold from Lansingburgh. Sunday 13th
Regt. inspections at 8am. Hot day all sick in camp sent to hospital at
Fredericsburgh all ready now to leave.

Page: 60

McClellans Address. #2 , Harrisons Landing July 4th 1862

Soldiers of the Army of the Potomac. You achievements for the last 10 days
have illustrated the valor and endurance of America Soldiers attacked by
Superior Forces and without hope of Reinforcements you have succeeded in
changing your base of operations by a flank movement regarded as the most
hazardous of military exceptions. You have saved all your material.. All
your trains and all your guns except a few lost in battle taking in return
guns and colors from the enemy upon the march. Although you have been
assailed with fury by men of your own race and nations skillfully masked and
led under every disadvantage of numbers and positions, you have also in
every conflict beaten back your for with enormous slaughter. Your conduct
ranks you with the celebrated armies of history. No one will question that

Page: 61

Each of you with pride say I belonged to the Army of the Potomac. You have
reached the real base. Complete in organization and unimpaired in spirit
the enemy may at any time attack you we are prepared to meet them. I have
personally established your lives. Let them come and we will convert their
repulse into a final defeat. Your government is strengthening you with the
resources of a great people on this our Nations birth day we dedicate to our
foes who are rebels against the best interest of mankind that this, our army
shale enter the Capital of the so called Confederacy, that our National
Constitution shall prevail and that the Union which alone can secure
internal peace and external security to each state MUST AND SHALL BE
PRESERVED COST WHAT IT MAY IN TIME TREASURE AND BLOOD 

George B McClellan. Commander.

Page: 62

JULY 1862 AT FALMOUTH
NAME OF BATTLES FOUGHT BEFORE RICHMOND.

Thursday June 26 Battle of Mechanicsville
Friday June 27 Gaines Mills
Sat June 28 Chickahominy
Sunday 29 peach orchard and Savage's station
Monday 30th White Creek swamp & creek
July 1 Charles City Cross Roads and Turkey Bend.

Monday July 14th on Guard In Ladlies Place. Hot day 15th washed clothes
very hot. Officers packed their tents and sent them off ,but they cam back
again. Rain hard at night. 16th fine day on police. 17th fine day went to
Fredericsburgh with Valentine. Good time all day at ,M ____? They were all
getting ready to go to Staunton to see friends. Would start at 4 AM on 18th
rained all afternoon. Left at 6 pm got to camp at dark. 18th got letters
from home, it rained some. 19th fine day washed. 20th Sunday fine day all
quiet, wrote letters. 21st fine day all quiet. 22nd on guard, no news from

Richmond, letters from home, times dull.

Page: 63, July 62 

July 23 Capt. Mansfield of 2nd Wisconsin ordered under arrest while acting
as provost Marshall, he granted passes to citizens through the line to the
enemy. 4 or 5 prominent citizens also arrested. No more passes issued to
cross the River. The Harris Light Cavalry made another bold dash beyond
Beaver Dam destroyed a rebel camp, took 5 prisoners and killed 4 men. 2
companies of the 14th went about 12 or 14 miles with them a few days age.
Same cavalry destroyed part of the railroad near Beaver Dam and a depot
captured. 300 barrels flour, a Capt. Sergt, and 3 privates. Gen. Pope at
the City of Fredericsburgh today said to be popular with the Army. 24th on
Police, ordered to start after dinner in light marching orders. 2 days
rations on expedition to consist of Cavalry. The 4th Regulars Battery B
infantry, 2nd Wisconsin 23rd NY & 30th Regt left at 3pm.

Page: 64

Stopped at S.A.M. as we passed through Fredericsburgh. Went about 12 miles
felt sick and very tired. Lay out all night in a field, no covering. It poured
rain during the night. Woke up in the morning very stiff, hardly able to move, 

sharpshooters passed on ahead of us, 25th went as far as where the
roads branched off near longs woods. Our Regt halted, ordered to stay there
until another Regt. relieved us. The others followed up the plank road
our Co. was sent up a bye road about a mile to another sharpshooters
wounded a Reb Lieut. And killed one. Man it looked like as if we were in
for it red hot- scouts came in and reported the enemy in too strong a force
to give theirs battle. Were within 2 or 3 miles of Grange Court House,
distance about 40 miles from Fredericsburgh, as our instructions was to find
out the enemy's strength not to bring on an engagement if there were too
many for us.

Page: 66, Near Grainge & Court House.

The pickets were called in we were allowed to make coffee and
retreat ordered. The rebel cav. On our heels. I was taken with cramps in
my stomach and had to lay down on the road, after going about 3 miles .
then the Rebs Cav. Made a dash on our rear guard, the artillery unlisted to
give them a shot when they would skedaddle back each time. They halted. I
would move along as best I could close behind the rear guard. The troops
reached a place called Pedinoville or Wedinsville hotel, the rear halted and
formed in line for battle. Artillery and skirmishes all reads but the enemy
kept back. An artilleryman carried some of my traps, with my cartridge box.
Our fellows got some bacon while the halt was called. For about an hour I
lay on a stoop. The woman of the house very much scared sure we were going
the fight. The march resumed, rain commenced.and I was not able to keep up

Page: 67

I went in a house a little off the road to get something to eat, raining
hard. Our men went on and left me in the enemy's lines. I was wet through
and sick. Some 8 or 9 of our Regt. was at the house, dried my stockings and
jacket and eat some supper. After that the woman made up a good fire in her
best room and her daughter sang for us, but I was so sick could not enjoy
it. About 9 o'clock the woman spread a bed on the floor for us 3 feather
ticks. I went to bed and slept until 6 next morning Sunday 27th. I got up
but would not wait for breakfast did not want to be captured. Some of the
fellows waited and got captured. I went on with 3 Dutchmen of the party
and some miles farther on halted at a house to make our coffee. While the
colored woman got it ready a young girl in the house joked us , said Jackson
was after us but the Dutchman got mad, could not take a joke

Page: 68

and started off. I fared better, the girl gave me 2 or 3 biscuits I told
one Dutchman. She sent one to him but he swore and said it was poisoned and
would not eat it. While we were at the house the wench was baking a hoe
cake for On-Cav.near guard when they saw us coming they took us for Rebs
and formed line of battle first but soon cleared off without the hoe cake.
We soon came up to them and had a laugh on them. The Dutchmen halted, I
went on alone the rest of the way and stopped at several houses after going
about 18 miles I halted. One house a union man lived in when about 10 miles
from Fredericsburgh. Left my guns outside the door, asked for dinner the
man gave me my dinner but cursed some of our soldiers for trying to steal
his horses. The family consisted of himself wife and 3 daughters all young
ladies. He told me he had 2 sons drafted in the Rebel Army, the Family wished 
me well.

Page: 69

and invited me to call if I ever came that way again. I thanked
him and went on a few miles farther. Saw 2 men on horseback coming toward
me, thinking them the enemy examined my rifle and found the cap gone, it
must have been removed at that house and the artillery man had my cartridge
box and caps. They asked me how far out our men was and how many was behind
me. I judge they were Rebs and spies so I told them a whole brigade was
behind me. (The there was only the few I left behind that was captured after
I left the house way back where I slept all night) Near the city of
Fredericsburgh about « a mile. I stopped at a house for a drink of water had
a chat with on old soldier said his name was Reed who invited me to call on
him stopped at Mannions, no one home waited about an hour, no one came.
Crossed the river on RR.

Page: 70 

Back to camp at Falmouth. Could not find my cartridge box at
the artillery camp. Some infantryman took it. Got to camp, my comrades was
surprised to see me thought I was taken prisoner, Capt. Had sent an
ambulance back several miles but could not find me. All glad to see me.
Some writing home stating I was captured. Letters waiting for me. Slept
well all night. 28 fine day, on guard, the boys all complaining of sore
feet after the march. 29th took a good wash in afternoon. Got Jim Hickeys
cartridge box and bayonet. Rained hard all night. 30th fine day took a walk
to the theater in village in afternoon. Wisconsin Regt moved their camp
over the railroad. McClellan at Washington, 22nd regt. to pair off.
July 31st.all quiet wrote home. Aug 1st fine day not feeling well, dull,
washed. Sunday 3rd got medicine from doctor. Knapsack inspection being
sick did not go out.

Page: 71 At Camp Falmouth.

Answered letters. 4th very hot all quiet. 5th moved
our camp about a mile back on the right of Bend and Sharpshooters. Very
hot, just got our tents up and orders came to go out on a foraging
expedition. Whole brigade, Gen. Hatch our new brigadier arrived and took
command. Left at 3pm Lieut. Col. In command of regt. Col. Frisby. Sick
tough march. It was hard on me being sick last 3 or 4 days. Felt weak, the
Lieut. told me not to go out but I preferred to go with the boys. Very hot
our blankets carried in the wagons. A good many fell out in the march and
was sent back to camp. While the Regt was in Fredericsburgh, I managed with
a few more to drop out and call at Manonix's and got all they wanted to
drink felt better and soon we caught up with the Regt 22nd and 24th Regts
went one road our regt. 30th and 22nd another route by telegraph road south
of Fredericsburgh when we halted for the night. Felt jovial.

Page: 72 Forage Expedition South of Fredericsburgh:

Lieut.Campbell in command of Co. B as rear guard, lay out in the
field all night after going about 13 miles. Made coffee. 6th woke up at
daylight, heavy dew after getting coffee went ahead of 22nd regt. about 4 or
5 miles halted. Gen. Gibbons and his men out towards Beaver dam. Jim
Rooney of our Co. and another sent to Fredericsburgh with 2 men. Our co.
took prisoners some of our Co sent through woods on our right about a mile
skirmishing and if all right to come back « mile an establish a picket.
After coming back the « mile heard commorading in our rear. The rebels had
gotten in so we joined our regt. found them in line with the cavalry and
artillery. Went back the road on the double quick, left our blankets
behind. 

Page: 73

The doctor said he would take care of them and see them carried to
camp about 4 miles back came up with the enemy they had come on the Bowling
Green road and came across on Loaded wagons going back to camp. Captured them 
and started off with them.
Our artillery banged sway at them but did no damage as they were on a steep
hill and we in the hollow. Our wagons had no guard with them as no enemy
was thought to be near. John Dargan in charge of the wagons was captured.
Jim Hickey and other drivers captured and we learned they took them south
about 70 miles and on to Richmond. Later Rooney while in charge of the
prisoners was nearly captured he fired on some of the enemy and came back
with his prisoners to the regt. We followed the Rebs for some distance but
could not overtake them. They killed Gen. Hatch's orderly Gibbons,
artillery fired several shots at them and it was reported 10 of theirs
killed. They were of Stewarts Cavalry. The Gen. And staff being at Dr.
Bullock's house for dinner our shells drove them off in a hurry with the
doctor and wife. We stopped at the house and some of the men took several 
articles there. 

Page: 74 Aug, 1862

About dark, went back to where we stopped night before but
no blankets. The doctor did not bring them so had to sleep without them all
night. 
Went about a mile for some straw to lay on. 7th Started for Fredericsburgh
early arrived at Noon. Called at Mannix had dinner there, got to camp at
dark. Jovial. Some left in canteen slept well all night. 8th Fell tired,
no rations everything looked blue. Went to our old camp for an old pair of
pants, got a new Korsouth Hat and 2 dollars. 9th hot day marching orders for
10th at 3am for the front. 10th started at daylight. I was detailed as
guard on wagon train with Khop. McClenahan. Went through Falmouth saw John
Flood on the march. Went about 8 miles or more on the old Catlett Road.
Turned to the left on the Culpepper Road. Quartermaster Sergent Gallager in
one of the wagons. Filled 2 canteens and my own. Going down hill had to run
to keep up with the wagons, very hotand tired, went about 11 miles before we 
halted to rest.
_________________________________________________.

Page: 75 Aug 11, 1862

Crossed the Rappanhonnack at 2 am. 11th. Crossing the
road several teams got stuck in the water arrived where the Regt stopped.
They were scattered all over the field and lay down to sleep. Stayed there
until Gibbons train passed us. We left at noon and the Regts piled up
their knapsacks here. We put ours in the wagons myself and McGlenahan. Had
a big hill to climb. Hard road and nothing to ear on the way but apples.
Saw a wounded cavalry man shot in the leg accidentally. Was taken back to
Fredericsburgh. Burnside was there with his whole forces. All our Div.
Came on to get a cup of tea, at night on the road our wagons got behind so
we had to run to catch up throwing in knapsacks in wagons. A gun fell out
picked it up got a few drinks on the road crossing through a little village.
We went on the fly, could not keep up. Saw the rebel signal lights on a
mountain to our left, lots of stragglers on the road.

Page: 76

Reported battle not far off. Got to where our Regt. halted for night, a
few miles beyond Culpepper, about 40 miles since Sunday morning. Very hard
road and very hot. About midnight found them asleep in a field on their
arms. I slept none in 3 nights. 12th Gen. Augin drove the enemies pickets
from here and had his horse shot under him while ahead of his men. Here
where to Battle commenced of the Sunday before and about 3 miles further on
was hotly contested at Cedar Mountains. About 6 or 7 miles from Culpepper.
Rebels said to be about 40 or 50,000 strong. Gen. Banks in command of our
forces. His corps about 3000 killed and wounded reported on each side.
Banks had his horse killed, Gen. Augur got wounded and several other
officers. The Regt who lost most was the 5th Connecticut, 28th NY 8th and
12th Regulars, 3rd Maryland, 27th Indiana. Crawford brigade being in the
advance suffered most. Men fought nobly. We were ordered to be in readiness

We packed and unpacked the wagons twice but did not start.

Page: 77 

Our division expected to go to the front. Gens Pope, McDowell, Banks and 
Siegel on the field.
Rained hard in the afternoon. Saw the Regt. engaged in the late battle
coming to the rear all cut up. Some Regts. Not having 200 men they went
back to Culpepper all the wounded sent there. Jackson reported to have fell
back 10 or 12 miles and Burnside in his rear said to have gone out by way of
Fredericsburgh. Paper at night mentioned the late battle and the recent
order issued in reg, and the drafting, and several getting ready to leave
the states to avoid it. The government must have men, I myself and Tommy
McClenahan slept in wagon all night. Regt. laid out in the woods close by.
13th. Hot day orders to let no one take anything from the wagons. All
quiet. Trains going out all night, said to be Sigels. After dinner went out to 
the battlefield had job going

Page: 78

through the pickets. About 4 miles from where our troops halted. The scene of 
the battlefield looked dreadful, dead
horses, broken caissons ambulances, and portions of rebel uniforms and union
soldiers scattered about and all blood as torn from the wounded. Saw on oak
tree 18 inches in diameter cut clean off. I suppose a solid shot. Saw
where a lot of our men was buried in a big trench on the battlefield. The
enemy was driven off the field 3 times and driven into the woods but
returned a galling fire and drove our men back again. The Rebs retreated
after it was over. I got back to the wagons about 5 PM tired. 14th up at
daybreak. Moved the wagons mares to camp and gave men their knapsacks. The
wagon guard was then relieved. Grand review ordered for 7 oclock am. The
whole division and the men looked well. Gens Pope, McDowell with their
staffs and Brigadiers were onhand. 

Pg.: 79 Near Cedar Mountain.

Got through before 11 am. Report in the papers, Gen. Winder and another
rebel General killed. No mail came since we left Falmouth. James McCormick
Lansingburgh, alias Crow of Co. H publicly disgraced on dress parade for
stealing 4 dollars in rebel money from a sick nigger wench. Marching orders
for 15th tomorrow at 9am. rain all night 15th answered letters mailed on
5th got them at Falmouth on 9th. Mail came got letters orders to march
postponed for 16th. Sat. left camp near Culpepper...over the late
battlefield saw several graves and lots of dead horses. Went about 5 miles
to the foot of Cedar Mountain. Halted put up our tents The Col. Took command
being some time sick before this. Dress parade at 6 wet night 14th Sunday
wrote letters to send home by Lieut. Dargen who has furlough to go home 
tomorrow
recruting.

Page: 80

18th Muster at 10 am struck tents. Orders to move at a moment's notice,
attack expected. Moved at 1am, Jackson reported at the Rapidan with a large
force. We retreated towards Culpepper. The boys got lots of things at a
sutters place there as the sutter did not want the Rebs to get it. Near all
the Regt. got tight halted after a long march about 9 miles from
Rappahonnock. crossed the bridge at the station the Rebs close on our
heels. We halted little ways from the station. The artillery on both sided
engaged across the river. We changed our positions nearer to the river.
20th between the two fires all day supporting the batteries, the shells
falling close by. We guarded a fort all night to prevent surprise. 21st.
had to support battery again, a shell fell close by my head where I lay. At
11 am on march to Warenton , very tough march, left Rappahonnock Station.

PG: 81 Left Rappahonnock Station

Nothing to eat for 40 hours. Halted at night in a swamp near Warrenton.
Made a bed from 3 rails of a fence and slept and dreamed. I dwelt in a
marble hall with vassals and a _?___by my side. 22nd Sat. Marched on a
little farther. Sun 23rd at Warrenton all day. 24th left for Sulfur Springs
here we were in line expecting an attack. Gen. Artillery and the Rebs had
it all day small loss reported both sides. Staid here all night. I was on
guard. 25th ordered back towards Warrenton enemy gone up the valley and
around by the gap towards Manassas. They raided our wagons at Catlett and
Bristoe station. We went through over old road to Haymarket halted at
night. Stopped _near Baltimore to make coffee and went to little
Washington. Stopped there all night 26th. Left at daylight saw about 150
Rebel prisoners, went through Gainesville & Haymarket,

Page: 82

the enemy now near Manasses in force. We kept moving about all day. 28th The 
Rebs shelled
McCalls wagons. We followed them up , Rebs, all day and in the evening had
a battle with them. We passed along the road with Gibbons, Wisconsin
Brigade in our rear. When the enemy was discovered in Gibbon's front, in
the woods we opened with his artillery then the carnage began. Jackson in
our front with 30000 men with our little division in his front the
Wisconsin Brigade lost very heavy...about 700 men. The musketry firing was
the most rapid I ever heard. Our Regt about at dark was ordered up to their
support. of of our Co. Paddy Welsh was killed about 4 feet from me. His
head blown off. We deployed in to line on the battlefield, yelling going in
the firing. Suddenly it ceased. We staid on the field with 2 lines of 
skirmishes all night and

Page: 83

within range of the enemy who were in the woods.
We could hear them plainly talking at their campfire, but the groans of the
wounded I can never forget. One poor fellow calling for his mother, another
for his wife, some for water and the dying calling for their comrades. WAR
IS A SAD THING, BUT A NECESSARY EVIL.
Aug 29th before daylight left the field on the quiet-our wounded behind what
remained on the field and made a quick march to Manasses Junction. Water
there very scarce and muddy. While halted to cook coffee McClellan's army
passed us going to the front. About noon after drawing rations we again
returned to the front. McCalls division engaged the enemy and drove them in
the evening. 

Page: 84

Our Brigade was orderd to charge. we did so while crossing BullRun, McDowalls
yells out. Now boys they are on the run give it to them. 

We followed them up about a mile or more when they took their
positions on a hill with a wood on their right, our left, and a bull run a
little to our rear. It was now too dark to tell friend from foe and when
they opened on our right front. We thought it was our own men firing on us
but soon found our mistake they had a masked battery in the woods on our
left. When we engaged them they poured in a crossfire on us and made us
retreat in haste. We lost heavily in killed and wounded. Our Co. lost
heavy. Lieut. Dargan mortally wounded while trying to rally the men. 1st
Sergt. Shelly and several others of our Co. wounded. Our Regt got
scattered, so I cound not find their headquarters all night. Woke up next
morning all wet found the Reg., our Brigade formed in line.

Page: 85 Aug 30th Battle of Bull Run

Brigade formed in line once more overlooking the battle field Col. Frisbie
furious over the defeat of the night before and the men really eager for
revenge. We kept changing positions until afternoon when we were ordered to
the frond. Had a cup of coffee on fire half made? A shell scattered the
fire in all directions. We went on the Berdaus ahead skirmishing, Capt King
being called in the morning to see Lieut. Dargan had not yet got back.
Lieut. Cross in command as Lieut. Campbell had been ordered to hospital at
Alexandria from Rappahannock station. After supporting a battery a little
while we followed up to the edge of a wood. Capt king had arrived and
reported Lieut. Dargon died. He promised to take his body home but man
proposes, and God disposes.
While halted at the woods mentioned Fitz John Porter in command. At that point

Page: 86

ordered. Gen. Hatch to take our brigade through these woods the Gen. Told 
Porter
there was troops in our advance in the woods, but he would pay no attention
to him we then moved on Bendans ahead we had 2 lines the 24th NY on our
right 14th Brooklyn NY supported the 24th and the 22nd our Regt. while
Passing through the wood we crossed over 2 lines of troops laying in the
woods. Think they were Butterfields or Martindales Brigade . In crossing a
stone wall some of our men was shot down but could see no enemy. We charged
across an open field and soon the enemy appeared on our right over the
railroad. Made a left wheel and the fun began. I fired off all my
ammunition, 50 rounds some had more. My gun got clogged up and I could
hardly handle it it was so hot . with the rapid fire. Capt King helped me to

Page: 87

get cartridges from the tins in the box. After throwing sway the tin he
told me I would not need them any more. He then went to the left of the
Reg, for what purpose I could not say, but I never saw him again. While our
brigade was engaged, we drove the Rebs several time over the embankment and
a fresh lob would come out although several lines of troops who were lying
sown in our rear was suppose to relieve us, no relief came. They fired a
few shots over our heads towards the enemy. When our cartridges was all
gone and we were obliged to fall back. the troops who ought to support us
turned and went to the rear on the run. I stood it as long as I could, got
a scratch in the forehead from I suppose a piece of shell or canister . the
rebs had their whole or most of their Force on our right then left

Page: 88

.and poured in a raking fire of shell and canister, mowing us down. Our 
company lost our camp. And
about 24 men killed and wounded. Our Regt lost very heavy in going to the
rear. Our brigade got scattered and I was trying to find them when I was
ordered to fall in with the 12thNY and go back to the front. That was what
I call fighting with 2 regts. in one day. After the 12th tried to rally the
stragglers and finding it impossible we again retired and I found myself, as
I may say alone on the road for a mile or two. I then got in with the
Bucktails and got some cartridges from them we formed a line of battle
across the road, to a charge bayonets to stop stragglers, the Duryes's 5th
NY Zouaves came along, what was left of the poor fellows, badly cut up they
lost heavy because they we to our left on the battlefield and exposed to a
raking fire their red uniforms a good target.

Page: 89 Aug 30th 1862 belonged to 3 Regts in same day 30NY 12NY and Penn 
Bucktails.

After staying here about an hour we then fell back and I went with others to
Centerville and there found our Brigade flag. Gen. Hatch was wounded in the
head. We went in to the fight 400 men and next day had 100. For rations
all the stress killed or wounded. A few taken prisoners and a few
stragglers came in later. We felt in our Co. like lost children after
losing our officers, with Dargen and King killed and Col. Frisbee and
several other of the officers. All felt sad, and we knew there would be
great crying and lamenting in Lansingburgh over the news. Sunday 31st drew
rations and moved back toward Fairfax on that road near Centerville.

Page: 90

Aug 31 1862, on retreat, Kearney and others killed, saw
James Leary, 1st Mass inf. We were there, mustered in, the Gen. 

Told our major we would be unfit for action, we were
so badly cut up. Staid there near Centerville, all night the wounded and
sick coming to the rear in ambulances very fast. Sept 1st left near
Centerville toward Fairfax in the evening Gen. Kearney and Stevens was
killed near there. at chantilly the thunder and lightning and rain was the
heaviest I ever witnessed BUT THE ROARS OF THE CANNON AND THE YELLS OF THE
MEN COULD BE HEARD ABOVE ALL, IT WAS TERRIBLE. 

Sept 2nd left Fairfax for Uptons Hill our whole Corps got there at night to 
our old camp. Found it all
weeds. Sept 3rd hot day washed, wrote home, after washing had to stand
naked in sun while my clothes was drying at camp. That night felt sick
terrible headache and passing blood. Very weak.

Page: 91

4th very sick all day 5th, also very sick. Sat. 6th sick and passing blood. 
Could not eat very sick.
Saw Jim Dargen, Alfred McMurray and Bob Dickson. They came over for the
bodies of Dargen and Capt King. Marching orders at night I could not march
with regt. The Capt. told me to go to the hospital at Alexandria or
Washington. Lieut. Campbell now in command of our Co as captain.. Got back
from hospital looking very bad. I left ahead of the regt toward Washington
with O"NEIL DUNN VAVENTINE AND THOS. MCCLENAHAN they passed us on the road.
We arrived in Washington the next morning sick and tired. Not able to
follow the Regt through Maryland. I did no go to hospital as ordered.
Stopped about 14 days at soldier's retreat-eager to join my Regt. While there.

Page: 92 Sept 20th, 1862

Sandy Gillespie went home with the major. They had the colonels, and
Capt Kings bodies with them. I went to the convalescent camp at Alexandria
with others and staid there until orders came. Nov 2nd while at Alexandria
drew 1 pants, dress coat, shirts, socks and drawers. Left 2nd from there to
Washington to join Regt. I forgot to mention on one trip from Washington to
Alexandria in September on boat a collision occurred at midday a steamboat
ran in to ours where the river is nearly 2 miles wide. One man killed.
Both boats loaded with troops. I stripped all ready to jump and looked for
a plank, but found our boat about safe, the other boat turned back to
Alexandria and sunk at the dock just as the men got off, narrow escape.

Page: 93 Nov 1862, Camp at Alexandria Convalescent.

Nov 3rd. Left Washington for Harpers Ferry. 5th left Harpers Ferry. No
rations except 1 days . Marched all the way to Washington on that one days
rations trusting to luck. Came across a sutter on the road going our route.
They asked us to help them up hill and across streams but was very stringy..
we halted at night in a church the sutter gave us a ham we found cabbage
close by. We made a fire and had a good supper. All hands the 2 sutlers
with me we took turns at night guarding their wagon. Next morning a squad
of Cavalry came along and told us to get as fast as possible enemy's cavalry
on our heels. We left our sutters and went on. They were captured with there
load and 2 horses got to camp at Warrenton, Nov 9th Sunday.

Page: 94 Sunday

Af ter a hard march and little to eat. 10th. Review, McClellans farewell
address read and to receive Gen. Augus, Burnside now in McClellans Place.
Fine day 11th Marching orders stopped about 3 miles from Sulfur Springs on
the Rappahannock. On picket all night 12th on picket reviewed at night by
20NY. 13th dress parade morning wrote and got letters. 14th inspection
drill orders to march in afternoon, 15th sat. The rebels shelled the trains
close by one man killed. Sunday 16th washed my clothes a letter from
Valentine. 17th marched on until late at night. 18th marched beyond the
Falmouth road towards Acqince creek. Halted at dark for night. 19th marched
on near Stafford Ct. House had a steep hill to go up. Rain at night. 20th
rain all day. Col Chrysler came and Adjutant Bentley,21st, rained all day, 
answered letters.

Page: 95 21st on March near Brooks Station.

22nd., Marched on about noon to near Brooks station. I was on picket
guard all night. Sunday 23rd wash day. Monday 24th, all quiet. 25th answered
letters.. Capt. Campbell went for our overcoats. 26th say John Dwyer he is
in the signal corps. 27th inspection all quiet. 28th nothing new. 29th
non commissioned officers appointed. Sergt Joe McKinney and Con Keleher,
Corp. Hugh Sands and Renny Gaston. The clothes put away at Uptons hill
arrived at Acquina creek. Cool day. Boxes came at night no overcoats.
30th got a blanket from box. Dec 1st. Wrote to Valentine, brigade drill 2nd
afternoon, Presidents message in todays papers. He advocated gradual
emancipation 37 years to free the slaves. 3rd cool day 4th orders to march
but countermanded. Brigade, Review, paid off for 4 Months up to Nov 1st.

Page: 96

Sent home 37 dollars, orders to move at moment's notice. Answered letters rain 
and snow
all day. Cold. 5th did not move. 6th same orders to move. Sunday 7th cold
day no move. 8th left camp at Brooks station towards Falmouth. 9th halted
and our regt left as rear guard. 10th our Regt got up to the brigade
opposite Fredericsburgh in afternoon, but will move again at night. Suppose
to cross the river south of the city. 11th before daylight our guns opened
up on the city. 141 cannon we left in that direction after sunrise took
position on the extreme left of the army and near the river all day. 12th
crossed Pontoons 3 miles below the city and in mounting the hill the enemy
opened on us kelling3 men. Got in position and lay on our arms all night.
13th an eventful day. Position on extreme left supporting battery, 

the Rebs tried several times to turn our left flanks but could not.

Page: 97 Dec 13th 14th 15th battle of Fredericsburgh.

Kept on double quick up and down the line
from extreme left to left center, changing position often. Men all played
out all this time shells flying in all directions. 2 men of Co. h killed.
9 wounded. Jack Spicier of our Co. wounded. At night the regt on extreme
left the rebus got range of us and poured in canister without much damage.
14th we did not have it so hard as day before the rebs tried there best on
the center and right of our line heavy loss on both sides. Principally
shelling in our front. In the afternoon a truce was held and our pickets met
the enemies pickets half way in plain view of both sides. They shook hands
cheered changed coffee for tobacco. This was to bring in the wounded. After
the time was up pickets took their position again and relied on each other 
again,

TERRIBLE WAR!

Page: 98

great picket firing all night. 14th 15th our Batteries at daylight

opened on the enemy but got no reply. Very hard fighting commenced on right 
and center. Another flag of
truce and meeting of Pickets as day before saw several narrow escapes at
night. This time the pickets agreed to cease the firing in each other at
night. Letters arrived. 16th before daylight retreated across the river.
Our Regt. the last to cross of the extreme left after we crossed we halted
in woods not far from the Rappahannock. I was a little behind the Regt.
Had to lay down very sick. Later on in the morning the Regt was close by, I
got medicine from the doctor. 17th cold day but fine some snow in
afternoon. 18th marching orders at daylight Col. paid us a compliment for
bravery in action, did not march, did not move.

Page: 99

Wrote to Father Galbury and enclosed a small present for Christmas to have
him remember me by.($2.00)
20th Sat. Marched. Pitched tents in a wood after going about 12 miles near
Belle Plain. Sunday 21st very tired on Picket at night. Changed position in
the morning. 22nd relieved at dark by the sharpshooters had to go out of
our way reached camp. Got there orders to march at 9am. Thus. 23rd went
towards the Potomac about 4 miles camped near Belle Plain landing. 24th
fine day on police. Letter from Valentine . 25th. Christmas day very
dull, short on rations, nothing to drink, officers had plenty felt sick, got
pills from doctor, day before paid $2.00 towards something for Christmas.
Felt very lonesome thinking of home. 26th all quiet, 27th Brigade inspection, 
nothing new 28th,fine heavy 
commorading heard in the distance. About noon feel sick, ordered to fix up 
tents and made ourselves

As comfortable as possible.

Page: 100 Dec 28, 1862 at Belle Plain. 

30th, under marching orders. 31st.Muster in and inspection. Jan1st 1863

fine day logged up our tents. Dull
day letter from Father Galberry. 2nd captain Campbell gone to Washington
3rd sat around answered letters. 4th Sunday, helpedT. Kelly to fix up drew
a pair of shoes, socks and mittens. 5th orders for review at 1pm. Received
by Gen. Wadsworth at the landing. After review boys had plenty whisky,.50
cts. Gallon, some of the lads had a row at night. 6th inspection by the
Col. and in the afternoon by a Regular officer and a very saucy one at that.
After inspection it rained hard, cold night 7th cold day parcels came for
the Regt. I got a box from home the boys had a time over the things at
night very cold. 8th very cold day, answered letters. 9th unloading
clothing from boats at the landing, hard work for a little while
PG101 at Belle Plain camp.

Page: 101 Jan 1863 at Belle Plain.

Lieut. Shelly arrived from hospital in Washington. 10th raining a lot of
clothing arrived for Regt. Sunday 11 fine dull, Sergt Kennedy back from
hospital, rumor of 24th Regt. leaving the brigade.13th on guard at Div.
Headquarters., 14th Relieved, wrote letters, 15th very windy talk of moving,
rain hard at night. 16th very windy. 17th orders to march did not go
washed clothes. Missed dress parade and had to stand extra guard. Sunday
18th went out chopping fine day. 19th marching orders for 9am countermanded
for 24 hours. Plenty of whiskey in camp all day and night. 20th marched at
12pm weather gloomy went towards Falmouth, halted in a clearing all night,
felt sick, rained also night hard. 21st woke up soaking marched through the
mud toward towards Rappahannock river 3 miles above Falmouth, rain all

day, sick from cramps. 

Page: 102 Jan 22, 1863 Burnside stuck in the Mud

22nd, seas of mud. Wagons and artillery stuck 12 and 14 hours to pull an empty 
wagon stuck at
that wagons had hard time to get up with rations. Soldiers had to pull the
guns out of the mud with ropes near the river. The rebel pickets yelled
across Burnside stuck in the mud 23rd detailed wagon guard ordered back to
camp. Very sick with cramps and bleeding, had to fall out-gave a nigger 25
cents to spread my blanket for me in an old cellar. After laying a little
while got some relief, went through Falmouth out on Belle Plain road halted
near to Burnsides headquarters, lay in wind all night 24th started for camp,
got there at noon. Roads awful. Sunday 25th on sick list cloudy day, wrote
home. 26th nothing new. 27th Brigade inspection in rain wet night very
windy. 28th snowing all day. Burnside, Franklin and Summer relieved of
their commands and the command of the army turned over to Gen. Hooker.

Page: 103

Hooker in command of army. Very cold night 29th plenty of snow and very
muddy and sloppy. 30th letter from Valentine. 31st answered letter. Feb.
1st fine day. 2nd some snow very cold. 3rd. On guard very cold the coldest
I felt since I came to Virginia, guard drew off at 9pm very cold night. 4th
clear but very cold. 5th plenty snow and rain all night and day, 22nd and
24th NY on pickets. 6th wet day several batteries passed our camp, rumored
for North Carolina the 9th corps shipped on Sat. 7th fine day. 8th Sunday
washed fine day 9th got a fife from David Ferguson. 10th no news. 11 fine
on guard rain all night the guard taken off. Made ring from buttons sent one
bent ring home in letter. 12th orders for picket rained at night. 13th brigade
went on picket out about 5 miles. Our Regt. to the Potomac. 

The 14th marched to the Rappahonnock,

Page: 104

Sat 14 fine day on picket. Sunday 15th still on picket rained hard.
Relieved by the 22nd and 30th NJ at noon. Reached camp all mud. 16th fine
day. 17th snowing all day and night . 18th rain all day and night. 19th
rain. 20th guard tents search by a sutler for stolen goods, found none.
21st brigade on picket. I was left on camp guard, snowed very hard at
night. 22nd Washington's birthday, plenty of snow and very cold.
Valentine arrived from convalescent camp. 23rd fine but cold. Brigade back
from picket. 24th off guard fine day. Swore to the amt. of bill of clothes
lost. 25th fine rain at night 26th. Con,Murphy White and Longstaff got back
to Regt. 27th inspection at 10am 28th Sat. Mustered in for pay. Sunday
March 1st windy day. 2nd fine on guard rain hard at night. 3rd off guard.
A Detachment under Col Philps acting Brigadier said to be about
5000 all told left here at 3pm.

Page: 105 March 1863

75 miles from our Regt went on boats down the river Potomac, to be away 7
days. Rainy washed, cold night. 4th fine 5th went on picket for 2 days.
Pleasant. 6th all quiet on picket line. 7th back from picket rained. The
river detachment back, went down the river about 80 miles to the Cone River.
Captured a Rebel Col. , 2 men several mules and horses. Sunday very foggy
and rain 9th fine general inspection at 4pm 10th sick got powder from
doctor, snowing in the morning rain hard all night. 11th feel sick, Capt.
Campbell back from Washington 12th cold day on guard but felt sick 13 off
guard sick very cold. 14th Lieut. Shelly gone to Lansingburgh on furlough.
Sent 2 handkerchiefs a shirt and 2 pictures by him. Sunday 15th cold and
snowing 16th Gen. Inspection wrote letters on picket.

Page: 106 March 18, 1863, Camp at Belle Plain.

18th fine Co. drill orders for a party from our Regt for picket, 3 days about 
70 men, 6 men and
a sergt from our Co. 19th cold detachment went on picket at 7am worked on
roads about 3 hours. 20th snowing day and night. 21st. Wet day and muddy.
22nd sloppy. 23rd cloudy orders to pack away all extra clothes and officers
baggage. Ready to send away . Lieut. Col Chrysler ordered to Washington.
Washed, the articles we packed away at Falmouth came, my overcoat and vest
not with them. 24th cloudy and rained all night 25th. Inspection, Lieut
Skelly got back from the Burgh. Rained in evening, orders read on parade
about the different corps, the badges they are to wear on their hats to
distinguish the corps from each other.
Our corps 1st a red sphere on the cap of the 1st div, white on the 2nd Blue
on the 3rd. 26th snow and rain orders for 3 years men in Regt. To be counted 
and 
Date of their enrollment and the 2 year men date of their enrollment and
when their time expires all furloughs stopped.

Page: 107

27th orders for review countermanded, day fine, 29th rain hard all day. Capt 
Williams of Co. E.
arrived. Sunday 29th cold and windy 30th fine working on the road. 31st.
Plenty snow. Jas. Flynn and George Scott got back. April 1st furloughs
again granted. Very cold. 2nd fine day but windy, reviewed by fighting Joe
Hooker in afternoon on flats by the river, our brigade complimented by Gen.
Reynolds. Very tired when I got back to camp. 3rd hot day wrote letters 4th
cold day plenty snow 5th Easter Sunday cold day some juice and old whiskey.
Monday 6th cold 7th fine batt. Drill 8th on guard, brigade inspection
orders to march next day for review before the president and others. 9th
reviewed by President and others, 

Page: 108 April 9th 1863-Review by President.

Gen. Hooker and staff. Were in light marching orders, very hot. 18th Gent 
minister, fine day 11th fine wash day
a detachment of 89 men ordered for picket. Sunday 12th fine day pickets
went out signs of a move the mules ordered shot, 13th fine marching orders
with 2 days rations, at short notice, all got red badges for saps. 14th
rain all day . 15th all ready to move. 16th Paid off for 4 months $52.00
and $10.65 for clothes lost. $62.65 in all. Sent home $50.00 dollars by Capt.
All officers tents packed off and gone off. 17th Plenty of the boys tight,
on guard. 18th felt sick. Sunday 19th Sick, washed, marching orders for
next morning. 20th started to mover countermanded, rain all day. Pontoons
train pass our camp at night. 21st. Cloudy. 22nd fine, a private of Co. C.
drummed out for desertion great excitement in camp. Many under the
influence of whiskey

Page: 109 

Private Co. C drummed out at Bell Plain.
Jack Laidley under arrest for striking a Lieut. of Co, C Yank, put in irons
for giving the deserter money. Got letters. 23rd 8 NY mustered out day
wet. 24th wet day. 25th. Our 2 years Co. time up but will have to stay
until June 1st. Orders came to hold all 2 years men from date of swearing
in to the United States service. Wrote home. Sunday 26th fine all quiet.
27th fine day, Col. encourages us to reenlist. Marching orders 28th left
early towards Fredericsburgh, halted near river after dark about 11pm.
Ordered up at once and moved to the river. Helped to carry and lay the
pontoons. 3 miles below the city about the place in occupied under Burnside
in December 62, the rebs opened fire on us as the boats grazed on the gravel
going in the water. Just before daylight on 29th. They killed

Page: 110 April 29th, 1863, Battle below Fredericsburg under Hooker

and wounded about 150 of our division. The Wisconsin brigade orders up and 
crossed in boats
while our pickets kept the rebs engaged during the time of the laying the
pontoons. After this the Wisconsin men crossed they charged up the heights.
Captured the pickets in the rifle pits and took about 180 prisoners. The
pontoons were soon laid and our division crossed. We reoccupied the bank
all day and threw up rifle pits. Rained at night 30th our company and two
other went to the front . On picket stood in the rain, relieved at 8 am,
our muster day, some heavy firing in the afternoon on the right. 5 men of
the 2nd division killed on the east bank of the river. May 1st all quiet in
our front, until evening. Con Keleher back from furlough, brought some gin
with him which was needed very much at the time as we were wet through.


Page: 111 may 1st 1863, below Fredericsburgh ,Battle under Hooker.

We had to dig rifle pits in a hurry. We were allowed whiskey while at work.
Dug after dark. 2nd heavy firing in the morning. We crossed the pontoons
under heavy fire. 2nd and 3rd division of our corps 1st left at day light
for Chancellorsville by United Stated Ford. Before we crossed Major Perry
threw away the mailbag, he got excited, and Capt. Campbell picked it up and
carried it until we crossed the river and it was distributed. While
crossing the pontoons the rebs got range of us and made it hot for us.
Later in the day we followed up the 2nd and 3rd division by same route,
halted at night in a wood near the ford. It rained hard I was so tired I
could not sleep. My legs kept twitching, nerves all unstrung from the rapid
and forced march, we lay about an hour when ordered up to move on before
daylight till I couldn't hardly walk. I was so tired. 

Page: 112 May 3rd, 1863, Battle of Chancellorsville.

3rd. crossed the river and took position in the woods. Heavy firing up to 
noon. Gen. Berry was
reported killed. Troy 22nd Regt cut up. 6000 rebels prisoners reported
taken. Most of them quite drunk. Our men took Fredericsburgh heights
destroyed 6 miles of railroad. Enemy tried to break our line at night but
got repulsed. Our troops retook cannon captured by the enemy day before. 4th
fine day quiet in our front up to noon. 5th heavy firing in the evening.
11th corps broke at 1 am. 6th retreated back over the river in heavy rain
enemy retreating at same time, Hooker had won but did not know it. We
halted for the night near Falmouth. 7th arrived before Fredericsburgh in
the evening, we suppose the intention is cross the river again. 8th lay
still all quiet. 9th fine day moved to a nice grove Close by, washed 
answered letters.

Page: 113 May 10, 1863, Camped below Falmouth.

10th very hot. Quiet, 11th hot day firing heard on our
right toward the evening. 12th hot day answered letters. 13th 24th NY
started for home time up. 14th thunder showers heavy in the evening. All
quiet. 15th woke up before daylight orders to march, in an hour great
excitement order unexpected by us as we were preparing to get ready for
home. After we were packed up all ready orders countermanded, the gloom
soon passed away. On guard, heard firing towards the river at night. I
suppose by picket's alarm at 12 mid expected to be routed up as I was on
guard. I was all ready but no orders all quiet 16th brigade inspection at
9am. Drew a pair pants on 15th felt sick 17th on police felt sick got
medicine from doctor. 18th unwell had pants fixed fine day 19th tried
to wash my clothes, 20th, hot day.

Page: 114 May 21st 1863,on Picket at the Rappahannock, talked with Rebel 
Pickets.

May 21st. On picket at river for 2 days. Talked to rebel pickets in a
friendly way. Some of them swam across to us. They were from the 6th and
8th Louisiana Regts. 22nd all quiet on picket. Our last it was a hot day.
23rd relieved from picket. Very hot Washed . The 3 years men left us for
the 76th NY. Felt lonesome. 24th cleaning up. 25inspected and
transportation papers expected. 26th cool day expect to leave for home
tomorrow. 27th great excitement, marching orders for the front all got in
line, 14th, and 22nd and 30th regts. When transportation orders came to us
and was read. their it was the men felt in marching off. We were cheered
by 14th and 22nd. They felt lonesome after up we marched to a placed called
YU BE DAM LAUDINS. Took boat for Washington and bid goodbye to Virginia on 
arriving 
to Washington

.Page: 115 At Washington

Few of the Regt was there. One of our Co wanted to join us
but the Capt. would not allow him, as he did not come back to the Regt when
ordered. We reached Albany about 29th or 30th. And was well received. When
our Co.came to Lansingburgh we met with a grand acception. Did not get
discharged until the 18th of June, when we were paid off. We got 100
dollars, each man who served 2 years.

THE END. 

"NECESSITY AND CIRCUMSTANCES CREATES OPPORTUNITIES, OPPORTUNITES RAISES THE
LOWLY AND MAGNIFICENT WHO IF THEY HAVE ANY AMBITION FROM THE BOTTOM OF THE
LADDER TO THE TOP".

July 12th 1863, first conscription's in NY City.