Showing posts with label Albert Pike. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Albert Pike. Show all posts

Saturday, June 20, 2020

Albert Pike

Lawyer, Poet.

Albert Pike, lawyer, poet, philologist, and for many years prior to his death the highest Masonic dignitary in the United States, was born in Boston, Massachusetts, December 29, 1809, and died in Washington City, April 2, 1891.

In early childhood he removed to Newburyport, in the same State, at which place and at Framingham he received his early education. In 1825 he entered Harvard College, supporting himself at the same time by teaching. Having studied at home for the junior class and passed the examination to enter in 1826, he found that the tuition of the two previous years was required to be paid, and, declining to do this, he completed his own education, teaching the meanwhile at Fairhaven and Newburyport, where he was principal of the grammar school, and afterwards conducted a private school of his own. In later years the degree of Master of Arts was conferred upon him by the faculty of Harvard College. In March, 1831, he went to the west, going with a trading party as far as Santa Fe, New Mexico. In September, 1832, he joined a trapping party at Taos, with which he went down the Pecos river and into the Staked Plains, where with four others he left the party and, traveling for the most part on foot, reached Fort Smith, Arkansas, December 10, 1832. His adventures during these expeditions, in which he underwent many hardships, are related in his volume of "Prose Sketches and Poems," published in 1834. While teaching in 1833, below Van Buren and on Little Piney river, he contributed articles to the Little Rock "Advocate," which attracted the attention of Robert Crittenden, through whom he was made assistant editor of that paper, of which he afterwards became owner and conducted it for upwards of two years. In 1835 he was admitted to the bar. He had read only the first volume of "Blackstone's Commentaries," but the judge of the territorial superior court said, as he gave the license, that it was not like giving a medical diploma, because as a lawyer he could not take anyone's life. He subsequently made an extensive study of the law, being his own teacher, and practiced his profession until the outbreak of the Mexican War, when he recruited a company of cavalry, and was present at the battle of Buena Vista, being attached to Colonel Charles May's squadron of dragoons In 1848 he fought a duel with Governor John S. Roane, on the occasion of an account of that battle written by him, and which Governor Roane considered reflected unjustly on the Arkansas regiment.

In 1849 he was admitted to the bar of the Supreme Court of the United States, at the same time with Abraham Lincoln and Hannibal Hamlin. A famous case pleaded by him before that tribunal was the claim of Henry M. Rector for the famous Hot Springs property in Arkansas. In 1853 he transferred his law office to New Orleans, having, in preparation for practice before the court of Louisiana, read the "Pandects," making a translation into English of the first volume, as well as numerous French authorities, and he also wrote an unpublished work in three volumes upon "The Maxims of the Roman and French Law." He resumed practice in Arkansas in 1857. In 1859, having been for many years attorney for the Choctaw Indians, in association with three others he secured the award by the United States Senate to that tribe of $2,981,247. He was the first proposer of a Pacific railroad convention, and was sent as a delegate to several conventions of the kind before the war, at one time obtaining from the Louisiana Legislature a charter for a road with termini at San Francisco and Guaymas. During the war of secession, he was sent by the Confederate government to negotiate with the five civilized tribes in Indian Territory, to secure their alliance and adhesion, and commanded a brigade of Cherokees at the battle of Pea Ridge, Arkansas. He was also for a short time on the Supreme Bench of Arkansas. In 1867 he edited the "Appeal" at Memphis, Tennessee, and in 1868 he removed to Washington City where he practiced before the courts until 1880.

From the year 1880 until his death, he devoted himself to literary pursuits and to Masonry. In his twentieth year General Pike composed the "Hymns to the Gods," poems published in "Blackwood's Magazine" in 1839, and included in "Nugae," a volume of poems privately printed in 1854. In 1873 and 1882 he printed, also privately, two other collections of poems. In 1840-45 he was the author of five volumes of Law Reports; in 1845 of the “Arkansas Form-Book;” in 1859 of "Masonic Statutes and Regulations;" and in 1870 of "Morals and Dogma of Freemasonry." Unpublished translations of the "Rig Veda," the "Zend Avesta," and other works of Aryan literature (with comments) filled seventeen or eighteen volumes of manuscript, without blemish or erasure. He composed numerous Masonic rituals, and replied to the bull of Pope Leo XIII against Masonry. In 1859 he was appointed grand commander for life of the supreme council of the thirty-third degree for the southern jurisdiction of the United States, the mother supreme council of the Masonic world. He was also at the head of the Royal Order of Scottish Rite Masonry in the United States.

SOURCE: William Richard Cutter, Editor, American Biography: A New Cyclopedia, Volume 2, p. 184-6

Tuesday, May 2, 2017

Diary of John Beauchamp Jones: April 14, 1863

We have nothing additional from Gen. Wise's expedition against Williamsburg; but it was deprecated by our people here, whose families and negroes have been left in that vicinity. They argue that we cannot hold the town, or any portion of the Peninsula in the neighborhood; and when the troops retire, the enemy will subject the women and children to more rigorous treatment, and take all the slaves.

We have news from Tennessee, which seems to indicate that Gen. Van Dorn has been beaten, losing a battery, after a sanguinary battle of several hours. Van Dorn had only cavalry — 7000. This has a depressing effect. It seems that we lose all the battles of any magnitude in the West. This news may have been received by the President in advance of the public, and hence his indisposition. We shall have news now every day or so.

Albert Pike is out in a pamphlet against Gens. Holmes and Hindman. He says their operations in Arkansas have resulted in reducing our forces, in that State, from forty odd thousand to less than 17,000. It was imprudent to publish such a statement. Albert Pike is a native Yankee, but he has lived a long time in the South.

Gov. Vance is furious at the idea of conscribing magistrates, constables, etc. in North Carolina. He says it would be an annihilation of State Rights — nevertheless, being subject to militia duty by the laws of the State, they are liable under the Act of Conscription.

Well, we are getting only some 700 conscripts per month in Virginia — the largest State! At this rate, how are we to replenish the ranks as they become thinned in battle? It is to be hoped the enemy will find the same difficulty in filling up their regiments, else we have rather a gloomy prospect before us. But God can and will save us if it be His pleasure.

SOURCE: John Beauchamp Jones, A Rebel War Clerk's Diary at the Confederate States Capital, Volume 1, p. 292-3

Monday, November 28, 2016

Diary of John Beauchamp Jones: December 23, 1862

The battle of Fredericksburg is still the topic, or the wonder, and it transpired more than nine days ago. It will have its page in history, and be read by school-boys a thousand years hence. The New York Times exclaims, “God help us — for man cannot.” This is another war sheet. The Tribune is bewildered, and knows not what to say. The Herald says “everything by turns, and nothing long.” Its sympathies are ever with the winning party. But it is positively asserted that both Seward and his son have resigned, to be followed by the rest of the cabinet. That example might be followed here without detriment to our cause. And it is said Burnside has resigned. I doubt that — but no doubt he will be removed. It is said Fremont has been appointed his successor. That would be good news. I think Halleck will be removed, and MeCIellan will be recalled. No matter.

It is said our President will command in Mississippi himself — the army having no confidence in Pemberton, because he is a Yankee.

We have a letter to-day from Gen. Pike (another Yankee), saying the Indian country is lost — lost, because Gens. Holmes and Hindman — Southern men — won't let him have his own way! The news from North Carolina is still cloudy. Gen. G. W. Smith is there (another Northern man).

Gen. Elzey has been appointed to command this department during Gen. L.'s abseuce. Gen. E. is a Marylander. In the President's absence, it is said this appointment was made by Gen. S. Cooper (another Yankee) to insult Virginia by preventing the capital from being in the hands of a Virginian. The Richmond papers occasionally allude to the fact that the general highest in rank in the Confederacy is a Yankee — Gen. S. Cooper.

Gen. Lee says his ammunition is bad in quality, and that his new guns burst in the late battle — all under charge of the chief of the Bureau of Ordnance — another Yankee. Gen. D. H. Hill writes a scathing letter to the department in response to a rebuke from the new Secretary, occasioned by some complaints of Major Palfrey in Gen. Cooper's (A. and I. General) office. I do not know where Major P. came from; but the fact that he was not in the field, gave the general occasion to rasp him severely. It must have been caused by an order transferring, furloughing, or discharging some soldier in Gen. H.'s division — and his patience vanished at the idea of having his men taken out of the ranks without consulting him, by carpet knights and civilian lawyers. He says 8000 are now absent from his command — and that Gen. Johnston's army, last spring, was reduced from the same cause to 40,000 men, where he had to oppose 138,000 of the “rascally Yankees.” He concludes, however, by saying it is the duty of subordinate generals in the field to submit in all humility to the behests of their superiors comfortably quartered in Richmond. But if justice were done, and the opinions of the generals in the field were regarded in the matter of discharges, etc., the lawyers, who have grown fat on fees by thinning our ranks, would be compelled to resort to some more laudable means of making a living.

A letter from Gov. Shorter, of Alabama, introduces Judge Rice, agent for P. S. Gerald and J. R. Powell, who propose to bring goods into the Confederate States through Mexico, to be paid for in cotton, etc. This was referred by the Secretary to the Quartermaster-General — who protests against it on the ground that it might interfere with his agents already engaged in the business.

The President publishes a retaliatory proclamation to-day against Gen. Butler, for hanging Mr. Munford, of New Orleans, who took down the United States flag before the city had surrendered. He declares Butler to be out of the pale of civilization; and orders any commander who may capture him, to hang him as an outlaw. And all commissioned officers serving under Butler, and in arms with negroes, to be reserved for execution.

There is a rumor that an agent of the Federal Government has arrived in the city, to propose an armistice. No armistice, unless on the basis of uli possidetis ante bellum!

Bethel, Leesburg, and Fredericksburg are victories memorable for our great success when fighting in advantageous positions. They teach a lesson to generals; and it will be apparent that no necessity exists for so great an expenditure of life in the prosecution of this war. The disparity of numbers should be considered by our generals. I fear the flower of our chivalry mostly perished in storming batteries. It is true a prestige was gained.

SOURCE: John Beauchamp Jones, A Rebel War Clerk's Diary at the Confederate States Capital, Volume 1, p. 221-3

Thursday, July 7, 2016

Diary of John Beauchamp Jones: October 23, 1862

The Gov. of Florida calls for aid, or he thinks his State will fall.

Albert Pike, writing from Texas, says if the Indian Territory be not attended to instantly, it will be lost.

Per contra, we have a rumor that Lee is recrossing the Potomac into Maryland.

SOURCE: John Beauchamp Jones, A Rebel War Clerk's Diary at the Confederate States Capital, Volume 1, p. 175

Wednesday, January 16, 2013

From The Arkansas Rebels --- They Extend Their Retreat --- Pike’s Indians Absquatulated --- The Rebel Force And Prospect

ROLLA, MO., March 29. Reliable persons just from our army in the southwest, say that the rebels numbering some 35,000 under Van Dorn and Price, have retreated entirely across the Boston Mountains, and are now at Van Buren and Fort Smith receiving supplies from Memphis and little Rock, via the Arkansas river, which is high.

The Texas troops are much disheartened at the death of McCulloch, and the Arkansas troops feel the loss of McIntosh very severely.  The rebels are badly off for clothing and shoes.

Pike’s Indians have mostly returned to the Indian nation.  They were not formidable in battle, being panic stricken at the effect of our artillery.

Price receved his Major General’s commission in the confederate service on the 16th.

One regiment of Texas troops reached Van Buren on the 15th to reinforce Van Dorn, and more were expected from Louisiana.  The whole rebel reinforcements will not exceed 5,000 in the next six weeks.

They were badly frightened and retreated very rapidly, and for the first three days of their flight had nothing to eat.  Their cannon and baggage train might have been easily captured.

Gen. Curtis’ army fell back to Keitsville to secure forage, Arkansas north of Fayetteville being entirely out.

Our forces are now camped at the head of Cross Timber Hollow, were water and forage are plenty.  Our pickets extend into Arkansas and the rebel pickets come north to the top of Boston Mountains.

Fayetteville is unoccupied.  Very little union sentiment has been developed in Arkansas.

– Published in The Burlington Weekly Hawk-Eye, Burlington, Iowa, Saturday, April 5, 1862, p. 4

Sunday, September 23, 2012

The Pea Ridge Battle

Further Details of the Fight.

(Correspondence of the Missouri Democrat.)

PEA RIDGE, Near Sugar Creek, Ark.,
March 9, 1862

During the past three days we have had some terrible fighting against fearful odds.

On Wednesday, Gen. Curtis, commander-in-chief, whose head-quarters was at Camp Halleck, received reliable information that the rebels, under Van Dorn, McIntosh, McCulloch, Price and Pike, were marching on us with a large force of Confederate Rebels and Confederate Indians.  All prisoners taken give the rebel forces from 35,000 to 40,000.  Gen. Curtis then ordered Carr’s division to move from Cross Hollows to Sugar Creek to take a strong position he had previously selected in case of attack.  Col. Carr marched in the night and joined Col. Davis, who had previously taken position before break of day, in good order.

Gen. Sigel, at Bentonville, was also ordered to rejoin Gen. Curtis at the same point.  Gen. Sigel’s rear cut their way through the enemy at the latter place, and kept up the fight for six miles.

The rebels on Friday morning having made a detour from Bentonville, got a heavy force directly on our rear and right, occupying the heights and brush on both sides of the Fayetteville road.  Colonel Carr’s division was sent to dislodge them.  The battle commenced at half-past 10 a. m., and raged eight hours, until darkness put an end to the contest.  They played on us from masked batteries.  At night we occupied a position considerably nearer our camp.  The carnage was dreadful on both sides.

Simultaneously with the action on our right fighting tool place opposite our front near Leetown, between Gen. Davis and another large body of the enemy.  The latter were forced from the field and hastened to form a junction with the rebels on our right.  The numerous instances of gallantry and heroic devotion which occurred, cannot be mentioned in this communication.  The move of the enemy caused a change of our line.  The battle was resumed next morning, (Saturday) about half past six o’clock, our guns opened on the enemy.  Gen. Carr formed in the center, with Davis on the right and Sigel on the left.  The line of battle was a magnificent sight.  The enemy occupied an open wood directly in front, a perfect hive of them.  They also covered a high bluff more to the left where a battery was planted.  They had another battery playing on us from a more central position, and also a battery of twelve rifled pieces on the Fayetteville road.  We opened upon them with five batteries planted at different points along our whole line, the cross fire produced such a tremendous effect as caused the enemy to falter.

Soon after 10 a. m. Gen. Curtis gave the order to advance, and the infantry becoming engaged, poured in such a murderous fire of musketry that the enemy fled from the field in all directions.  The victory was decisive. – Under the eye of Gen. Curtis, Commander-in-Chief, Gen. Sigel followed the flying enemy for several miles.  Col. Bussy with a cavalry force, is in pursuit toward Boston Mountains, after the main body.  We captured five cannon.  It is impossible to give our loss at this time, or any reliable estimate of the enemy’s loss.  We have taken prisoners, Acting Brig. Gen. Herbet, the commander at Cross Hollows; also Colonel Mitchell, adj. Gen. Stone, Col. Price and majors and captains in abundance.

The loss of valuable officers on our side is deeply deplored.  We have four general hospitals established for the relief of the wounded.

The rebel McIntosh is reported dead, and also McCulloch, who was known to be mortally wounded.

Price was wounded in the hand.

Van Dorn got away safe.

Col. Reeves of the rebel Second Missouri, is mortally wounded.

Albert Pike Commands the Indians.

Many of our wounded have been tomahawked and scalped by the Indians, with savage ferocity unbecoming civilized warfare.

I give a list of our casualties in killed and wounded.

Col. Hendricks, 22d Indiana, was killed by Indians.

Liet. Col. Herron was wounded in the foot and taken prisoner.

Maj. Black of the 37th Illinois, wounded in the arm.

Lieut. Col. Fredricks, 59th (late 6th Missouri,) reported mortally wounded.

Gen. Asboth, wounded in arm.

Lieut. Colonel Trimble was wounded in the mouth.

Lieut. Col. Crittenden, Co. K, 3d Iowa cavalry, was severely wounded.

Major Coyle of the 9th Iowa in shoulder.

Lieut. Porcher, Co. H, 4th Iowa, severely wounded in thigh.

Color Sergeant Teal, 4th Iowa, shot in the arm.

Captain Burger, Co. H, 4th Iowa, wounded in head.

Add Pea Ridge to the list of battlegrounds.

All our letters including my dispatches, have been detained several days here – cut off by the enemy.


STILL LATER FROM THE BATTLE-FIELD

(By Dispatch from Rolla.)

ROLLA, Missouri, March 16. – The remains of Colonel Hendricks, of the 29th Indiana, who was killed at the battle of Pea Ridge, Arkansas, arrived here yesterday, accompanied by his brother and two or three other gentlemen, who left the battle-ground on Monday following the battle.

They represent the contest as having been a terrible one.  The rebels fought desperately, using stones in their cannon, when their shot gave out.  Their force is stated at 35,000 including 2,200 Indians under Albert Pike.

As near as can be ascertained, our loss is six hundred killed and 800 to 1,000 wounded.  The rebel surgeons, who came into our lines to dress the wounds of their soldiers, acknowledge the loss of 1,100 killed and from 2,500 to 3,000 wounded.

We took 1,600 prisoners and thirteen pieces of artillery, ten of which were captured by Gen. Sigel’s command and three by Col. Patterson’s brigade.

Two of our cannon, belonging to Davidson’s battery, were taken by the rebels, but were recaptured by our troops.

The rebels were completely whipped, one division under Price fleeing in one direction and the other, under Van Dorn, taking another. – Maj. Hebart of one of the secession regiments, who was taken prisoner, says that Gen. Erost of Camp Jackson notoriety was killed.

– Published in The Burlington Weekly Hawk-Eye, Burlington, Iowa, Saturday, March 22, 1862, p. 4

Friday, September 14, 2012

The Battle of Sugar Creek


Terrible Fighting against Rebels and Indians – the Savages Scalping their Friends – Heroism of our Troops – 12,000 Whip 28,000.

SUGAR CREEK BATTLE FIELD, via Rolla, March 11. – The battle of Sugar Creek Field was the most brilliant achievement of the war.  The enemy approached our forces with double our number, and in consequence of this difference were enabled to attack us on all sides.  The fighting was in some instances desperate, but the superior valor of our troops, and the superior generalship of the Federal army, triumphed over the immense odds.

The Federal force was not over 12,000 while that of the rebels is acknowledged to have been 25,000 including 7,000 Indian savages under command of Albert Pike, of Ark.  Sigel added fresh laurels to his already bright fame.  With two regiments he twice cut his way through seven regiments of the enemy.  His men all fought like heroes, and he escaped unhurt.

The Federal loss in killed and wounded will amount to 1,500.  The enemy’s loss is, beyond doubt, at least 2,400.  McCulloch and McIntosh are undoubtedly dead, and many other Confederate officers were killed and wounded.  Our sharp-shooters picked them off with an unerring arm.  The number of prisoners now in our possession amount to 1,600, and they are still coming in.  Many of them are taking the oath of allegiance and receiving their discharge, satisfied that their cause is a bad one and hopeless.

The Indians fought with a savage fury, and in their frenzy and demoniacal thirst for white blood, killed and scalped friend and foe alike.  Many of the Arkansas troops, scalped and disemboweled by their savage allies, have been found on the battle field.  Their atrocities are frightful.  The remnant of the rebel army has fled to Boston mountain, whither they are being pursued.  They can be pursued no further with our present force and supplies.

JUNIUS.
{Cor. Cincinnati Times.

– Published in The Burlington Weekly Hawk-Eye, Burlington, Iowa, Saturday, March 22, 1862, p. 4

Sunday, August 26, 2012

From Gen. Curtis


ST. LOUIS, March 19. – Telegrams from Gen. Curtis state that his loss in killed and wounded at the battle of Pea Ridge was about 1400.  The enemy retreated entirely south of the Boston Mountains.  There are no more troops in Northern Arkansas, except marauders and Pike’s Indians, who will kill and plunder from all indiscriminately.

– Published in The Burlington Weekly Hawk-Eye, Burlington, Iowa, Saturday, March 22, 1862, p. 3

Tuesday, August 14, 2012

The Great Battle Of Pea Ridge


Full Particulars of the Three Days’ Fighting.

(Correspondence Cincinnati Times.)

CAMP SIGEL, PEA RIDGE, Benton Co., Ark.,
Monday Evening, March 10.

Before this reaches Cincinnati, you will have learned of the great three days’ battle fought on Pea Ridge, in Benton county, Arkansas, commencing on Thursday morning, the 6th, and closing on Saturday afternoon, the 8th inst., certainly one of the severest engagements during the war, and little, if any, behind the great struggle at Fort Donelson.

This battle, like that up the Cumberland, extended over a great deal of ground, and was characterized by a vast amount of irregular fighting, such as it is impossible to embrace with the eye, and almost impossible to describe in detail.  Such particulars, however, as I can gather amid the tumult and confusion, that attend and follow a battle, I will endeavor to furnish in my usual crude and desultory form.


FEARS FOR OUR TROOPS.

No marvel fears were felt for the safety of our soldiers, notwithstanding the confidence reposed in such officers as Sigel, Carr, Davis, Osterhaus, and others, who had been tested by sever ordeals on the fields.  That their situation was precarious – that the odds were largely against them – and the prospect of their success dim and distant, is evident at a glance.

Our little army seemed rather to consult its ardor than its prudence, and marched steadily on in the face of frowning dangers and formidable opposition.  Our advance reached Fayetteville forty-five miles below the Missouri State line, and still Price retreated.

At Boston mountains the Missouri rebel was joined by Ben. McCulloch, Van Dorn, Albert Pike and his Indians, and McIntosh, who had been made Generalissimo of all the Secession forces in Arkansas, much to the chagrin of Sterling Price, really more deserving of the great dishonor.

At this time Gen. Curtis, hearing of the rebel reinforcements, and knowing their force more than twice his own, had no doubt he would be attacked, or at least have an opportunity for battle in a very few days.  He discovered that the vicinity of Sugar Creek was much better adapted for camping, and he therefore ordered his advance to fall back to the neighborhood of that stream.  Up to this time Price and McIntosh had believed the Federal army at least 50,000 strong; not supposing Curtis and Sigel would have the temerity to enter a thickly settled State, whose every man, woman and child had been reported as hostile, to the last degree, to the odious Yankees.

Hearing of Curtis’ retrograde movement, McIntosh had no doubt that he was retreating in hot haste, anxious to escape from the toils in which he had discovered himself, as it was hoped to late for extrication.  When he learned, too, through one of his spies, the exact number of the Federal troops, he was confident they were flying, and thereafter the only effort was to destroy or capture the Yankee host.


THE FEDERAL ARMY.

Our effective force could not have been more than twelve thousand on the day of the first engagement, and was composed of Indiana, Illinois, Iowa, Ohio, and Missouri troops.  The army was divided into three divisions, under the command of Gen. Samuel R. Curtis, a brave and patriotic officer, and was brigaded, as nearly as I learn, in the following manner:


GEN. SIGEL’S DIVISION.

FIRST BRIGADE – COL. GREUSEL.
Thirty-sixth Illinois, Col Greusel.
Twenty-fifth Illinois, Col. Koler.
Forty-fourth Illinois, Col. Knoblesdorf.

SECOND BRIGADE – COL. OSTERHAUS.
Twelfth Missouri, Col. Osterhaus.
Seventeenth Missouri, Col. Hassendeufel.
Second Missouri, Col. Schaeffer.

THIRD BRIGADE – COL. ASBOTH.
Third Missouri, Col. Friala,
Illinois Cavalry, (one battalion,) Captains Jenks and Smith;
Third Iowa Cavalry.


GEN. DAVIS’ DIVISION.

FIRST BRIGADE – COL. BENTON.
Eighth Indiana; Col. Benton;
Eighteenth Indiana, Col. Patterson;
Twenty-second Indiana, Lieut. Col. Hendricks.

SECOND BRIGADE – COL. _____
Fifty-ninth Illinois, Lieut. Col. Fredericks;
Thirty Seventh Missouri, Col. _____
Missouri Cavalry, battalion, Major Bowen;
Second Ohio Battery, Col. Carlin;
First Missouri Light Artillery, one battery.


GEN. CARR’S DIVISION.

FIRST BRIGADE – COL. DODGE.
Fourth Iowa, Lieut. Col. Galighan;
Twenty-fifth Illinois, Col. G. A. Smith;
Twenty-fourth Missouri (Battalion), Major Weston.

SECOND BRIGADE – COL. VANDEVIER.
Ninth Iowa, Lieut. Col. Herron;
Twenty-fifth Missouri, Col. Phelps;
Thirdy Iowa Battery, Capt. Hayden;
First Iowa Battery; Lieut. David.

THIRD BRIGADE – COL. ELLIS.
First Missouri Cavalry, Col. Ellis;
Third Illinois, Lieut. Col. _____
Sixth Missouri (battalion) Major Wright.


THE REBEL ARMY.

The rebel army was composed of nine or ten perhaps twelve thousand Missouri State troops, under Major General Sterling Price; some six or eight regiments of Arkansas, under Gen. Ben McCulloch; five or six regiments of Texans, under Gen. Earl Van Dorn; some three thousand Cherokee, Choctaw, Creek and Seminole Indians, under Col. Albert Pike, all under the command of Major General McIntosh.  In addition to those mentioned, there were two or three regiments of Louisiana troops, and companies of Mississippi and Alabama soldiers, under their respective Captains, Majors and Colonels, whose names are unknown alike to your correspondent and to fame.  The entire rebel force could not have been less than thirty thousand; many persons estimate it still higher.


ARMS OF THE FEDERALISTS AND REBELS.

Our troops were of course generally well armed, while the rebels varied as usual in the style, character and effectiveness of their weapons. – Many of the Confederate arms were excellent, embracing Mini rifles, Enfield muskets, and good United States muskets; but the greater portion were rifles and shot guns, with which Sterling Price once swore he would establish the Southern Confederacy against the opposing world.

The rebels and 82 field pieces, some 20 of which were rifled; while we had but 49; most of them, however, being of superior manufacture to those made in Secessia.


THE FIRST DAY’S FIGHTING.

As I have said, the rebels, before they began the new memorable battle in Benton County, Arkansas, on Thursday morning, March 6th, 1862 were entirely confident of success, and their chief concern only how to destroy or capture our whole force.

Gen. Curtis anticipated an attack from the South, and accordingly had the trains placed on the north, under the protection of Gen. Sigel, with a body of eight hundred men – the principal federal encampments and main lines being to the eastward and near the head on both sides of Sugar Creek.  Meantime, the rebel forces were moving in full strength from Bentonville, whence they had proceeded from Cross Hollows, and with rapid marches were endeavoring to cross the creek, and by placing themselves on the north to cut off our retreat.

An advance of about two thousand cavalry reached the desired point, and made a fierce onslaught on Sigel, hoping to take possession of our large and valuable train.

Sigel proved himself the right man in the right place.  He gallantly met the enemy, and while he repelled their charge, prevented them from seizing upon our wagons.  The brave and accomplished officer seemed ubiquitous.  He rode rapidly here and there; giving orders and observing the point of attack and the situation of the enemy, at the same time cheering and encouraging his troops.

Often he was in the thickest of the fight, and hey he was always cool, calculating, and skillful; exposing himself as a common soldier, and yet preserving the calm judgment and fixed purpose of a Commander-in-Chief.

Sigel’s desire was to keep the communication open between himself and the main camp, and the enemy’s design to cut off this avenue for reinforcements.  They closed round him with tumultuous shouts, and believed they had accomplished their purpose, when Sigel rushed in upon them with his brave followers and compelled them to give way.  Sigel could not relinquish the trains and so he fought on, and exhorted his men to renewed hope and courage by his example.

For two hours the strife went on with great ardor on both sides; but it seemed as if the Federalists would soon be compelled to yield.  There seemed no hope for them.  They must become exhausted, and doubtless they must have done so, had their destiny been in less powerful and expert hands than Sigel’s.

The waves of opposition rolled around Sigel’s band once more, and gain the traitorous shout went up to the sky, and swept like a note of victory along the rising hill.  Many a stout loyal heart doubtless sank when that cry was heard; but Sigel had no thoughts of failure.  He was fighting for his adopted country, and the salvation of his little band, and ordering three companies of his men to charge bayonets the rebel cavalry was dispersed, and the way was open once more.

Still no reinforcements came, and our gallant soldiers appeared contending as a forlorn hope.

About the trains the din of strife rose louder than before, and the rattle of musketry and the booming of cannon awoke the surrounding echoes.

The enemy were losing ground.  They rallied and fell with redoubled force on our heroic band, two hundred of whom had already proved their patriotism with their blood.

The combat was hand to hand.  Horsemen were dismounted, and struggled with the infantry, while the officers were sometimes seen defending themselves against the advancing bayonets of the common soldiers.

A superhuman effort on the part of the enemy, and a third time the Federalists were surrounded.

Firmer and firmer were the rebels closing round the five or six hundred braves, who were evidently going to the wall.

The sun of Hope seemed sinking, though that of Nature was shining clear from out the quiet sky.

Sigel saw the smile of Heaven, only, and would not despond.  His eye flashed, and his form expanded, as the shouts of the enemy rose above the din of the struggle.  Only one way was left.

“Follow me!” thundered Sigel, and his proud steed trampled an approaching rebel under his haughty feet.

A deep, strong, earnest cry from the Unionists, and they met the foe with the rush of determination and the energy of despair.

The Secession line could not endure the shock.  It recoiled, was thrown into confusion, and retired from a position that was immovable as an Alpine rock.

And Sigel was victorious with the sun still beaming clearly out of the quiet sky.

The train was saved.  The first day was won.  The future looked blue with hope as the violets of the early year.


THE SECOND DAY’S BATTLE.

The enemy, during the night and early in the morning, poured in from the Bentonville, road, and gathered in heavy force to our rear, sweeping round to the right, and occupying both sides of the Keetsville road, a position from which it was absolutely necessary to dislodge them, or surrender all hope of success.

Truly, before the second day’s engagement began, the prospect was very dark.

Defeat seems to stare us in the face, and the sole thing possible appeared a struggle to prevent too disastrous a discomfiture.

The way to Missouri was defended by thirty thousand of the enemy; and we had little more than one-third of the number to dispute the perilous passage.  On the south were the Boston mountains.  To the east or west we could not go.  Were we not hemmed in by nature and the enemy?

Could we longer resist?  Could we say we were contending only for victory when the shadows were lengthening and deepening on our hearts?

Gen. Carr’s division was sent by Gen. Curtis to force the enemy from their position, and about ten o’clock in the morning the battle was renewed with increased ardor, and soon the batteries from both sides were replying to each other with death dealing voices.  The main action in the morning was to the right of our encampment, and for seven hours the field was hotly contested.

Gen. Carr made a spirited and heavy charge upon the enemy under McCulloch and Price. – The musket and rifle firing was very sharp, and every few seconds there boom of the batteries burst  across the country, and the iron hail swept down the stream of life, and filled the surging and noisy waves with spectral corpses.

The rebels reeled as we went against them, but their column did not break.  The charge was repeated.  Still the foe stood firm, opening a galling fire from two batteries whose presence had not before been known.  Our troops were thrown into confusion, and three companies of infantry and Col. Ellis’ cavalry were ordered to silence the destructive guns.

Like lightning our men leaped forth prompt to the word, and raged about the rebel batteries as ravenous wolves around a sheep fold.

Everywhere the strife roared; everywhere the smoke crept; everywhere the ground shook.

The sunbeams glanced off from the swords and bayonets; but they ceased to shine for many eyes on that blood stained day.

Carr’s column advanced and fell back and advanced again, and beyond them, up the hill, the cavalry and infantry were struggling to capture the detested guns.  The regiment which protected the batteries met them fairly and freely, and for half an hour, the two combatants were so comingled that they almost failed to recognize one another.

“Our men have the batteries,” was announced and the Federals rent the welkin with their huzzas.

Yes, it was so.

Through the blue curling vapors our men could be seen dragging the guns after them.  Ere they had gone a hundred yards, the rebels were behind them struggling like Hercules for the repossession of the pieces.

Blood streamed anew, and shouts and groans and prayers and curses went up with gigantic forms of smoke into the upper air.

Appropriate incense to waft the elements of battle to the skies.

No noise now.

All as silent as when men are holding their breath for a deadly purpose.  The suspense is awful.  It cannot last.

Do you not hear a thousand hearts beat across the plain?  Anxiety has made the roar of battle almost inaudible, so keenly is the sense upon the rack.

Five thousand throats are roaring with triumph.

Brief triumph.  The batteries are lost.  Our men have been overpowered by numbers.  They retire, and blood marks their progress, and many dead are abandoned.

The recaptured guns are avenging themselves.  Their shot and shell are tearing up the ground, and tearing open brave bosoms, and making history and peopling graves.

The batteries are sought once more.  We win them back with blood.  We are hurrying them off.  The rebels stare like demons out of malignant eyes, and curse through firm-set teeth.

Triumph is about to crown our efforts, when a large force of the enemy, repulsed by General Davis from that section of Pea Ridge known as Leetown, throngs to the rescue.  A dozen combats over the guns, and the contest is still undecided when the darkness gathers, and through the night the enemy are seen bearing off their twice captured, twice recaptured guns.

Nature is no longer an impartial witness.  She draws the curtain, and the camp fires blaze along the road and light up the trees.  Man’s Pandemonium is profaning the holy night.

Midnight comes; and the scattered words of the sentinel are heard; and the Federalists and rebels are sleeping on their arms, dreaming, it may be, of the time when they were friends and brothers, and America had not become one vast military camp.

The stars, too, are keeping watch on the battlements of Heaven.  They challenge no one. – They seem to say to all the weary and worn, “Come hither!  Here is peace!”

Speak, they, or be forever silent, there are many spirits in the air seeking the peace that is not of earth.


THE THIRD DAY’S BATTLE.

At 6 o’clock our guns opened on the enemy, and our fire was returned from 20 pieces.  The firing did little harm.  The enemy’s shot passed over our heads.  Our cause was growing darker.

This day must win or lose the battle.  As yet the fortunes of war incline not to our side.  We have reason to be alarmed, but home and courage are strong counselors, and add strength to weak arms.

Gen. Sigel observes new positions for our operations.  We plant six batteries at different points commanding their principal forces.  A fire of ball is shattering the space with its roar.

The enemy’s list of mortality is swelling. – They do not understand our great advantages.  They turn pale and hesitate to advance.  No time is given them for reflection.  They are seized in their soul’s perplexity, while judgment tosses in fevered sleep.

Our army move forward.

Our entire infantry is engaged.  The rebels meet our dreadful volleys of musketry for a quarter of an hour, and their fire slackens.

Still our batteries are forcing the verdict of the outraged nation into their startled souls.

The cannon answered the musketry – the musketry replies to the cannon.

Every inch of ground appears alive with troops.  Every twig and dry leaf seems ablaze.  The balls are falling like the large drops of a summer shower.  The Pentecost of war is descending.

The rebels can endure no longer the sheet of flame out of which go death and pain in [a] thousand forms.  They have lost their faith in their bad cause and themselves.  They fly, and a roar of victory follows them as the waves of the river the lean and hungry shore.  They turn not back.  Two of their Generals have received their mortal wounds, and the word is: “Save himself who can.”

The Yankees have beaten them, and their star has set over the verdureless ridge of this hard fought field.

The birds twitter over head.  The sun shines warmer and clearer.  The atmosphere of blood is purified by the feeling that it was shed in a sacred cause.

The spring greets the victors, and kisses their burning brows with the same pure lips that call forth the early flowers.  Nature rejoices over the triumph of principle, for Nature is the order and the law.

The rebels are hastening away.  The Federalists pursue the broken columns, and the breezes come wafting the victorious shouts, and the incense of the youthful March, revealing that all is well, and that the future is secure.


THE LOSS ON BOTH SIDES.

Our loss cannot be known at this time, but it must be in the vicinity of 1,700 – 500 killed and some 1,300 wounded, most of them slightly. – Our officers, contrary to the past experience of this war, suffered little, though they exposed themselves recklessly, as Americans always will do on the battle-field.

The rebel loss will never, I presume, be accurately ascertained, as they are lying all over the ridges, in the ravines, among the brush and along the roads.  The casualties among the enemy, however, were far greater than with us, and three thousand, of which nine or ten hundred were in killed, I am confident, would not be an over statement of their loss.  Their officers fell thick and fast in the engagement, and their dead and wounded Majors, Colonels, Captains and Lieutenants, were at least double ours. – The Secession officers were generally brave and dashing, and fought in so praiseworthy a manner as to leave us no regret, so far as courage goes, that they were born upon our own beloved soil.


THE HEROES OF THE FIELD.

It is not possible to mention all who distinguished themselves, or those who did not; for men and officers seemed determined to do all that lay in nerve and limb to shed luster on our arms, and gird the glories of three illustrious days with the laurels the great Julius so ambitiously, but deservedly wore beneath the eagles of eternal Rome.

Under no circumstances, I cannot forbear to mention as I believe Gen. Curtis will, the heroic conduct of Generals Sigel, Carr, Davis and Asboth; Colonels Dodge, Osterhaus, Hendricks, Vandevier, [Greusel], Schaeffer, Benton, Ellis, Herron, and a host of Majors and Captains., in fact, I have heard of no complaint in any quarter.  All shone like heroes in a heroic cause, and were worthy the fame, past and future, of the country deserving ere many months to resume her proud title of the Model Republic.


BENIGHTED CONDITION OF ARKANSAS.

The semi-barbarous condition of Arkansas has become proverbial in this country; and yet no one who has not traveled in the State can have just idea of the ignorance and immorality that prevail there.  If a foreigner were set down in this Patagonia of places, and told that it was one of the component parts of the Great Republic, famous for its school houses, railways and newspapers, he would not believe a story so apparently self-contradictory.

Here in Benton county one sees very few indications of civilization, and it would seem an anomaly if loyalty ever could have flourished on so barren a soil.  The population is not now over eighteen hundred, though it once boasted four thousand, and the dwellings are usually miles apart, and made of logs and mud, presenting a most cheerless and squalid appearance.

No one is at home save women and children, and the old men, and very few of the last, even those of sixty years who were not diseased having been impressed into the rebel army.  The women are only such in name, and their sex, in absence of physiological demonstration, must be taken on faith.  Tall, meager, sallow, with hard features and large bones, they would appear masculine, if they were not attenuated to suggest the possibility of health of strength.  They drink whiskey and smoke as freely as the men, often chew tobacco, and go about swearing in discordant tones and expectorating skillfully, and are as hideous as any Tophetian trollops that the most prolifically depraved mind can imagine.

Very few of the common people – and Heaven knows they are common enough – can read or write; and it is not usual to find but one or two in a township so blessed beyond this kind.  Ignorance and crime are inseparable companions, and it is no wonder vice here assumes many of its lowest and most disgusting forms.  The life led is one of brutalized sense and dissipation, practical amalgamation, gambling and fighting, are the end and aim of Arkansas existence.  Not many of the people have been out of the State (just think of a being that has no idea beyond or above this Boeotia) and they live, if I may employ so inappropriate a verb, and die here, unpenetrated by a ray of beauty, unlifted by a hope of advancement, undeveloped by a thought of change.

Among some of the farmers in this country are men of considerable intelligence, but they are generally from other States.  The true Arkansian knows nothing and learns nothing.  He regards education in every form as a Yankee invention that has a tendency to interfere with the institution of Slavery, which many of the poor whites adore, because they own no negroes.


THE UNION SENTIMENT OF ARKANSAS.

With several of the more intelligent people here, and with some of the prisoners, I have conversed on the subject of the Union sentiment in Arkansas, and they say the people, strange as it may seem, would never have gone with the Confederacy if they had been allowed to determine the question for themselves.

Throughout the entire State men went as emissaries of Secession, and told the people they must go out of the Union, if they did not want to be despoiled of their slaves, and ruled over by the Yankees, who could compel them to perform all menial offices.  Their property, their wives, their homes, their very children would be taken from them; they would exchange positions with their negroes, and the latter be made their masters.

These arguments even the Arkansans could comprehend, and in a few weeks after the diffusion of such nefarious sentiments, the State was thrown into a terrible excitement.  A reaction occurred.  A few thinking Union men enlightened the half crazed community, and told them they were deceived; that Secession would ruin them; that their only safety was in the Union, and that President Lincoln had no disposition and no intention to interfere with any of their constitutional rights.

The advice came too late.  The rebels had by that time gained the power, by seizing all the arms, and thereafter they had full and absolute sway.  They pillaged and destroyed wherever they went, and the people found their worst enemies were at home.  Terror-stricken, they yielded, for they knew their lives were in the hands of the oppressors, and since that period hardly a man has dared to lift his voice against the outrageous tyranny imposed upon the State.  Perhaps the oppressed were wise in their reticence, for the means of forcing eternal silence were not wanting.

Men were often carried off by armed bands, who broke into quiet habitations at unseasonable hours of the night, whipped, tarred and feathered, dragged through horse ponds, and often hanged, or otherwise murdered, because they were charged with infidelity to the South.  Loyalty to the union was the unpardonable offence, and the individual suspected of any such sentiment was liable to assassinations anywhere.  Hundreds of men escaped from the confines of the State, leaving their families and all their property behind, fearing to remain where their lives were not worth a moment’s purchase.  Any scoundrel could make an accusation against an honest citizen that would destroy his life, or drive him an outcast and an exile from his home and all the associations he held dear.

The incidents of personal prowess and daring on the field were numerous, and the narrow escapes from death difficult to believe unless witnessed.  A few examples will not, I opine, be without interest at a time when the public pulse beats from sympathy with little else than war.


PAINFUL FATE OF A BRAVE LIEUTENANT.

A melancholy incident occurred to a Lieutenant (whose name I could not learn) in one of the Iowa companies, that I cannot forbear mentioning.  He had been shot in the leg, and had fallen.  He rose and supported himself upon a stump, cheered his company, whose captain had been killed, to push on to the then important crisis toward the reinforcement of Gen. Carr.

While the Lieutenant was waving his sword, an artillery wagon was driven madly along the road, by the side of which he was standing. – The wheel struck him, threw him to the ground and the heavy carriage passed over his neck, causing instant death.  Poor fellow.  I saw rude men weep over his corpse, and they proved themselves braver and truer for their tears.


MAGNANIMOUS REBEL.

Even Secession cannot crush the noble instincts of the heart.  Even a rebel often has the generous qualities of nature and the lofty instincts of gentlemen.

A case in point:

A Colonel of one of the Louisiana regiments saw a poor private, a Federalist, lying wounded alone by the roadside, and begging for a drink.  The colonel dismounted, and taking the soldier’s canteen, went to the creek and filled it; gave him a drink and placed him in an easier position – all this while our bullets were flying in his immediate vicinity.

I am very sorry I do not know the gallant Colonel’s name.  He never did a nobler act on the battle field.  He has some reason to boast of chivalry, though I doubt if he does so.  If the South comprehended chivalry as he comprehends it, their assumption of a high attributed would not render it a subject of merriment and an object of scorn.


A BRAVE LIEUTENANT-COLONEL.

Lieutenant Colonel Herron, of the Ninth Iowa, was wounded in the battle and taken prisoner, though he lost his liberty through no fault of his, as he seemed determined to die rather than fall into Rebel hands.  He was surrounded by ten or twelve of the enemy, and his surrender demanded in vain.  He killed one and wounded three of the rebels, and was making every resistance with his sword, when his arms were seized and his opposition rendered impossible.  He would have been killed most assuredly, had not a Southern Major saved his life, and shot an Indian dead who was trying to butcher him after his arms were bound with a handkerchief.


ATROCITIES OF THE INDIANS.

The three thousand Cherokee, Choctaw, Creek and Seminole Indians under Col. Albert Pike, a renegade son of Connecticut, committed the greatest atrocities in the field, not only plundering and maiming the dead, but actually murdering and scalping the wounded as they lay helpless and suffering on the ground.  More than one hundred and twenty of our brave men were thus barbarously treated by the savage foe, who had been wrought to a pitch of frenzy by the rebels, through passionate appeals and declarations that the Yankees designed to enslave them, and force them, with chains and whips, to do the vilest drudgery in their aristocratic homes in the North.

Not only did the enemy thus poison their minds, but every day before the savages went into action they received large potations of whisky mixed with gunpowder, which rendered the naturally fierce sons of the forest perfect demons.  Under this extraordinary stimulus they forgot their usual caution, and exposing themselves after the American fashion, were killed in great numbers.  Still they were very formidable, and often attacked the Federalists in the rear, and as they were passing some bend in the road or piece of wooded land, and did much execution.  They yelled and danced and brandished their knives, and acted like crews of madmen; but when they became partially sober, became more prudent, and fought after their time-honored fashion – from behind trees and fallen timber.

When our troops discovered on the second day that the Indians were using the scalping-knife, their rage knew no bounds, and they made sad havoc in the ranks of the red devils; slaying them without mercy whenever and wherever they could reach them.  In one instance the Second Iowa battery which had four of its members scalped obtained the range of a body of four or five hundred of these savages and fired several charges of canister and shell upon them in rapid succession, at a distance of not more than three quarters of a mile.

The effect upon the natives was terrible. – They were cut down like grass, and the dusky demons who were unhurt ran howling from the field, and could not be rallied again that day (Friday) though Col. Albert Pike shot several with his own hand and bawled at them until he was hoarse.  Some ten or twelve of the chiefs were killed, whose names were Pri-chi-i-liko, (Seminole,) Maa-to-wee, (Creek,) Sag-a-hache, (Seminole,) Tar-a-nil-fut, (Cherokee,) No-ir-wampum, (Choctaw,) Yah-ta-min-go, (Chactaw,) Nor-i-mos-ker, (Creek,) Jor-a-tink-tinkel, (Cherokee,) Bo-re-op-o-lee, (Seminole,) and Elk-i-man-to-ros, (Creek.)

Bo-re-op-o-lee, was one of the most renowned of warriors, and though over fifty years of age was athletic and daring to an extraordinary degree, and famed in his tribe alike for his counsels and his prowess.  He had fought with the celebrated Red Jacket in Florida during the Seminole war, and bore upon his person no less than twenty wounds.


THE REBELS SLAUGHTERD BY THEIR SAVAGE ALLIES.

It is said the Indians, in the engagement of Friday, became so excited by the alcohol they had drunk, and the scenes that they witnessed that they turned their weapons upon their own allies, and butchered and scalped the rebels and Federalist with the most charming indifference.  An instance of this is given by one of the prisoners, a member of one of the companies that suffered from what the Southerners believed to be the treachery of the savages.

Four companies of the Arkansas troops belonging to Ben. McCulloch’s Division were marching upon one of the ridges north of Sugar Creek, on Saturday morning, to strengthen the enemy, who were badly pressed by General Sigel.  They soon came in sight of about three hundred Creeks and Choctaws who stood on the brow of an adjacent hill.  When within about one hundred and fifty yards of the savages the latter opened fire on them.  The rebel Major who commanded the battalion cried out to them that they were killing their friends; but the Indians did not heed what he said, and again discharged their pieces.

“The d----d rascals have turned traitors,” cried the Major.  “Upon them, Arkansans and give them no quarter.”

The Southerners needed no second order. – The attacked them with great energy, and for nearly an hour a desperate battle was waged on the Ridge; the Indians fighting with blind fury, and scalping all who fell into their hands, whether living, wounded or dead.  This is described as one of the severest actions of the entire battle, and the Indians, who were finally routed, are said to have lost one hundred and twenty-five killed and wounded.

JUNIUS.

– Published in The Burlington Weekly Hawk-Eye, Burlington, Iowa, Saturday, March 22, 1862, p. 2

Friday, March 9, 2012

From Springfield

SPRINGFIELD, Mo., Feb. 18. – It is not probable that our army will follow Price very far into Arkansas.

There is considerable talk of fortifying Neoshoe and placing a detachment of troops at Cassville.  A letter found in Price’s headquarters, reveals a strong Union sentiment in Arkansas.

Albert Pike is working wonders among the Indians.

– Published in The Burlington Weekly Hawk-Eye, Burlington, Iowa, Saturday, February 22, 1862, p. 3

Tuesday, September 6, 2011

The Pea Ridge Battle

ROLLA, March 16.

The remains of Col. Hendricks, of the 29th Indiana, killed at the battle of Pea Ridge, Arkansas, arrived here yesterday, accompanied by his brother and two or three other gentlemen, who left the battle-ground on the Monday following the battle.  They represent the contest as a terrible one.  The rebels fought desperately, using stones in their cannon when their shot gave out.  Their force is stated at 35,000, including 22,000 Indians under Albert Pike.  As near as could be ascertained, our loss is 600 killed, and 800 to 1,000 wounded.

The rebel surgeons, who came to dress the wounds of their fallen, acknowledge a loss of 1,100 killed and from 2,500 to 3,000 wounded.

We took 1,600 prisoners, and 13 pieces of artillery, ten of which were captured by Gen. Sigel’s command, and three by Col. Patterson’s brigade.

Two of our cannon, belonging to Davidson’s battery, were taken by the rebels, but were recaptured by our troops.  The rebels were completely whipped, on division under price going in one direction, and the other, under Van Dorn, taking another.

Maj. Hebart, of one of the Louisiana regiments, who was taken prisoner, says that Gen. Frost, of Camp Jackson notoriety, was killed.

– Published in The Davenport Daily Gazette, Davenport, Iowa, Tuesday Morning, March 18, 1862, p. 2

Wednesday, June 29, 2011

From Missouri

SPRINGFIELD, Mo., March 1.

Special to Mo. Republican.

On Wednesday night, Capt. Montgomery of Wright’s battalion, with his company was surprised at Keitsville by 850 rebels, supposed to belong to McBride’s division, but who represented themselves as Texan rangers.  They fired into a house occupied by our men, killing two and wounding one.  One of the rebels was killed and the balance fled, taking with them about 70 horses.  Two wagons loaded with sutler’s stores were burned the same night, at a farm two miles beyond Keitsville.

Cols. Ellis and Wright, with adequate cavalry force, were sent to Keitsville.

Price had burned several public buildings at Fayetteville, including the arsenal, lead factory, several flouring mills and 100,000 pounds of flour.  Many inhabitants along the road have fled, deceived by the lies of Price, that all would be butchered.

Strong Union feeling is exhibited by those remaining.  An old soldier of 1812 brought out a Union flag long kept concealed.

The fear that the combined forces of Price, Van Dorn, McCulloch, McIntosh and Pike will again overrun the country, keeps thousands from avowing their sentiments.  Price, after a hot chase, is cooling off in Boston Mountains, and Ben. McCulloch is on this side.

– Published in The Davenport Daily Gazette, Davenport, Iowa, Thursday Morning, March 6, 1862, p. 1