Showing posts with label Thomas J McKean. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Thomas J McKean. Show all posts

Sunday, August 20, 2017

Captain Charles Wright Wills: November 15, 1862

Camp at Lagrange, Tenn., November 15, 1862.

We're having more of a rest here than we anticipated when we arrived. Suppose that the organizing of the army into divisions and brigades delays us some; and, maybe, the change of commanders in the Potomac army has something to do with it. Or possibly we're waiting for McClernand to move from Memphis. I don't think our army here (the Corinth and Bolivar forces) is very large, though some estimate it quite strong, as much as 50,000 or 60,000. I think we have about 35,000, maybe less. General Lauman has been relieved from command of our division by General McKean and ordered to Memphis. Am sorry to lose him. He has few equals for skill in handling a division or honor and courage as a soldier. Am much afraid that the rainy season will catch us in the midst of our slow motions, and then good bye all hopes of the war's closing next spring. McPherson and Logan promised in speeches a few days since that we would finish up the business within 40 days; and I believe we can, West of Georgia, if this weather will continue and our commanders will improve it. Don't believe that Price will dare to fight us anywhere, certainly not this side of Jackson. We can't have more than 40 days' of marching weather yet until the rains come, and in that time we ought at least to make 250 miles. The more I think about the matter, the surer I am that we won't do much before next May. Well, I enjoy soldiering and can stand the delay in proportion; but inactivity when a fellow can't see the reason therefor, is provoking to a degree extensive. We made a capital start from Peoria to this place in five days, but the thing hasn't been followed up. Our cavalry has been doing some dashing work here, sums up about 300 prisoners, etc. But the 7th hasn't figured much therein, at least not in reports, although the 7th boys say they did their share. I have seen all my acquaintances in the 7th, and the 8th Infantry is also here. Fred Norcott and Milo are both looking splendidly. Also Ben Rockhold. 'Tis said that General Logan publicly disgraced the 17th to-day for some insult to himself. Never thought much of that 17th and think less now than ever before. They certainly show no signs of discipline that can be seen by the naked eye. The 7th Kansas Cavalry, 'tis said, proposed in writing to General Grant, that if he would give them a certain time, (no other condition), they would capture or kill General Price. I wish he'd do it. They would raise the d---1 around the Rebel army, and I believe it practicable at any time for 500 daring men to reach the person of any of our commanders, and why not theirs. They are cutting our baggage down to a very small compass, so that six wagons can haul for ten companies. I'm opposed to it, but Halleck ranks me and I will have to submit. Nobody in this country seems to care a cuss whether McClellan is removed or not. General feeling is that the Potomac Army is only good to draw greenbacks and occupy winter quarters. We're in hopes that Pope will be sent back to us after he finishes hanging those Indians. I don't believe there is a regiment in this army that would not cheer him as its corps commander. Everybody seems to be willing to bet something on Pope. Hurlbut is the most popular man here as a division commander, and I think that Grant could get more votes than any other man for commander of the army, always excepting Rosy. Grant is not so popular among the general officers, as far as I know, but the whole line believe in him, mostly, because he is for going ahead and will fight his men. The Memphis force hasn't moved yet that I can hear of. Everything goes on swimmingly in the 103d. The old regiments try to bore our boys by calling them conscripts and $40 men, but don't succeed well. In a march of 15 miles last week an old regiment, 3d Iowa, tried to run us down but it ended in our marching right through them. Dorrance is an excellent fellow in the field, wouldn't trade him for any other lieutenant in the regiment. The Democratic victories at the polls don't excite anyone here. We only wish the soldiers could vote. Illinois would talk differently if we could..

SOURCE: Charles Wright Wills, Army Life of an Illinois Soldier, p. 143-5

Saturday, August 19, 2017

Captain Charles Wright Wills: November 21, 1862

Camp 103d Illinois Infantry, La Grange, Tenn.,
November 21, 1862.

Every one seems to think that we will start about day after to-morrow, Monday. We have drawn eight days' rations, and 200 rounds of ammunition has also been drawn for our corps. I don't think we have more than 14,000 in our corps, Logan's and McKean's Divisions, although there are some eight or ten new regiments here that I don't know, where assigned. Report to-day says that Sherman has moved from Memphis on the Holly Springs Pike. We are having delightful weather. No fires are necessary until dark, and we have had no frosts since our arrival. Hope we will keep ahead of cold weather if compatible with the interests of the service. I “borrowed” some citizens clothes and wrote myself a pass as suttler's clerk, last night, and strolled around the town a couple of hours. There are many fine buildings here, among the rest two very large academies. Many of the Memphian nobility have country seats here, some of them most elegant. Holly Springs, though, is the most important summer rendezvous for the Memphis folk. Our people have left the Springs, and I don't know that we have any troops in advance of this place. I am very comfortable in my quarters. Have plenty of blankets and a good stove. My colored boy, Dave, went into the country 20 miles last night and returned this p. m. with his wife, a delicate looking black woman, neat and much above the ordinary slave. She has been a sewing girl all her life, and I think would be worth something to a family that has much plain sewing to do. I think I will try to send her to Mrs. S. C. Thompson. “Dave” is a first rate cook and waiter, and I'll keep him with me until the war closes (if he don't spoil) and then take him to his woman. How'd you like a good colored woman for your kitchen? This woman mended my pants (I have two pairs) as neatly as any tailor could. Our regiment beats 19 out of 20 of the old ones for discipline, and averages with them for drill. Colonel Dickerman is a star, and Lieutenant Colonel Wright is proving himself much better than we expected. Colonel Oglesby has figured away ahead of anybody I've heard of yet in procuring wagons, tents, etc., for this regiment. Ours is the Only regiment I've heard of yet that is allowed to retain the old complement of transportation, equipage and tents. I'm officer of the day and 'tis my duty to make the rounds of the sentinels to-night at 1 or 2 o'clock; but in consideration of — etc., think the formality will be dispensed with.

SOURCE: Charles Wright Wills, Army Life of an Illinois Soldier, p. 141-2

Thursday, August 17, 2017

Captain Charles Wright Wills: November 17, 1862

Camp at Lagrange, Tenn., November 17, 1862.

Our whole regiment went on picket Saturday evening. Didn't reach our posts until 9:30 p. m. Had plenty of fresh meat next day (notwithstanding stringent orders), and beautiful weather. Our going on picket saved us a tramp of 22 miles, for which I am duly grateful. They had a scare at Summerville while we were out; our brigade (except we who were on duty) were started out, nobody hurt, happy to chronicle. Squads of prisoners taken by our cavalry are constantly arriving from the front. Very little skirmishing though, mostly unarmed citizens, etc. There are an immense number of slaves at the different military posts through here and in this vicinity. The officials are using them to good advantage in securing the large crops of cotton to the Government. The camps are overflowing with them, and their music and dancing furnish the boys with amusement unlimited. Don't have half the fun with the natives that I used to, in fact haven't spoken to any since I have been out this time. Guess I'm steadying down some. Like soldiering as well as ever but the novelty's gone, and its more like a regular way of living to me than a spree as it used to be. Don't see any immediate prospect of a move, but a chap can't tell what any symptom means here. I'd bet several times that we're on the point of starting. We have been reviewed twice within four days by Grant, McPherson, McKean, Logan and Pugh.

SOURCE: Charles Wright Wills, Army Life of an Illinois Soldier, p. 141

Monday, September 15, 2014

Governor Samuel J. Kirkwood to Abraham Lincoln, December 4, 1861

[December 4, 1861.]

His Excellency the President: — The State of Iowa has now in the field and in camp, waiting arms and equipments, fourteen regiments of infantry and four of cavalry. I feel that I can justly say, and am proud to say, that so far as they have been tried either on the battlefield or in the scarcely less arduous duties of camp life in Missouri, they have shown themselves to be at least equal to any other troops in the service. For some reason this State has not been very highly favored in the distribution of Brigadier-Generalships. Brig.-Gen. Curtis was appointed during the summer, and was the only Brigadier-General from this State, until the quite recent appointment of Brig.-Gen. McKean, and these two are all yet appointed from this State. Were this a matter involving the mere proportion of officers, I think I would not be disposed to press it upon your attention. But it involves more. Our regiments are scattered among brigades heretofore in all cases commanded by Brigadiers from other States, and composed mainly of troops from the State whence the Brigadier in command comes. Under these circumstances, it is but natural that our troops should fear their commanding officer would feel partial to the troops from his own State, and perhaps but natural that officers should feel that partiality. I have learned satisfactorily that the opinion prevails extensively among the troops from this State, that they have been unfairly dealt by in having had assigned to them the most laborious and the least desirable duty in Missouri, and that in the report of the battle of Belmont, gross injustice has been done them, and I am sorry to be compelled to say, that in my judgment this opinion is not wholly without foundation. This seems to me to be an unfortunate state of affairs, and one that should not be suffered to continue, if it can be readily avoided. I therefore very respectfully propose that you appoint from this State a number of Brigadier-Generals, sufficient to take command of our troops, and that our troops be brigaded and placed under the command of these officers.

It seems to me that a spirit of State pride will in this way be called into action that will tell well in the service, and at the same time all cause of complaint will be removed. I take great pleasure in submitting to your consideration for the positions indicated, Col. G. M. Dodge of the Fourth Iowa Infantry, Col. Nicholas Perczel of the Tenth Iowa Infantry, Col. M. M. Crocker of the Thirteenth Iowa Infantry, and Col. W. L. Elliott of the Second Iowa Cavalry, from among whom I hope you will be able to select the number to which our State will be entitled, in case our troops shall be brigaded and placed under our own officers.

Trusting this matter may receive your early and favorable attention, I have the honor to be

Very respectfully your obedient servant
SAMUEL J. KIRKWOOD.

SOURCES: Henry Warren Lathrop, The Life and Times of Samuel J. Kirkwood, Iowa's War Governor, p. 177-8

Saturday, January 4, 2014

Major General Henry W. Halleck's Special Field Orders, No. 35

SPECIAL FIELD ORDERS No. 35.

HDQRS. DEPT. OF THE MISSISSIPPI,
Pittsburg Landing, Tenn., April 30, 1862.

I. Major-General Thomas' division is hereby transferred from the Army of the Ohio to the Army of the Tennessee, and General Thomas will take command of the right wing, which will consist of his own and the divisions of Brig. Gens. W. T. Sherman, T. W. Sherman, S. A. Hurlbut, and T. A. Davies.

II. The divisions of Major-General McClernand, Major-General Wallace, and one division from General Buell's army corps, to be designated by him, together with the heavy artillery, will constitute the reserve, to be commanded by Major-General McClernand.

III. Brigadier-General Hamilton's reserve division of Major-General Pope's army will remain under General Pope's direction until further orders.­*

IV. Major-General Grant will retain the general command of the District of West Tennessee, including the Army Corps of the Tennessee, and reports will be made to him as heretofore, but in the present movements he will act as second in command under the major-general commanding the department.

*          *          *          *          *          *          *          *          *          *

Brig. Gen. T. W. Sherman is hereby assigned to the command of the Sixth Division of General Grant's army, now commanded by General McKean.

By order of Major-General Halleck:
 J. C. KELTON,
 Assistant Adjutant-General.
__________

* See tabular statement of the two wings and reserve, under date of May 13, p. 185.

SOURCE: The War of the Rebellion: A Compilation of the Official Records of the Union and Confederate Armies, Series I, Volume 10, Part 2 (Serial No. 11), p. 144-5

Monday, October 7, 2013

16th Iowa Infantry Correspondence

CAMP NEAR PITTSBURG, Tenn.,
May 4, 1862.

EDITOR GAZETTE. – I have been intending to write to you for some time, but our frequent moving, sickness, &c., have prevented.  Even now there is no certainty that a letter commenced will be finished at one writing or in the same camp, even if it take[s] only an hour to write it.  Our marching orders are sudden, and the brief interval is a busy time of preparation.  At all times we have to be prepared for a battle, and generally with rations cooked ahead.  The battle will be daily or hourly expected until it happens, unless we should get news of Beauregard’s retreat, something we do not expect.

A little over a week ago we were in camp thirteen miles from our present location.  An order to move received after dinner, a dismally rainy afternoon, took us four miles away through mud and mire to supper.  We left a beautiful camp, but located in one even more lovely, we occupy the left, the 15th next, 13th next and the 11th on the right, Col. Crocker of the 13th commanding the brigade – (these are the regular positions of the regiments of the brigade in camp.)  Had a brigade inspection, by Inspector Gen. Judah, and our regiment was probably more complimented than any other.

On the 29th our brigade was ordered to march with all the ammunition we could carry, and two day’s rations.  We started in the afternoon, with the prospect of a fight ahead, Lieut. Col. Sanders in command of the 16th, Col. Chambers being absent for some days, with the intention of staying perhaps a month, on business connected with his old government duties.  We marched eight or nine miles and after dark we halted in the woods, where we slept on the ground without covering, in the old style.  In the morning we marched about a mile farther, halted, and soon about faced and marched back to our own camp.  Gen. Wallace’s cavalry attacked Purdy, and we were sent out to support him, and make a reconnoissance.  But he took the place without our aid, and destroyed a long railroad bridge and another property used by the rebels – a serious disaster to our butternut breeched friends.

April 30th, we had our regular inspection and muster for May.  The “pay” has not yet turned up, however.

May 1st, We again struck our tents, and made another move of four miles towards the advance, and in such a lovely place we felt an inward conviction it could not long be enjoyed by us.  Here we received notice that our Division (6th) had a new commander, Gen. McKean being transferred to the first division, and Gen. T. W. Sherman (Port Royal and “Sherman’s Battery” Sherman) commanding our division.  He is reported a splendid officer.

My 3d, yesterday we again moved our camp, taking a five mile step in the advance.  This time the 16th landed with its tents in the middle of a wheat field, far different from the rare forest beauties of our other camps.  The wheat is about a foot high and moderately thick.  The planter is doubtless with the rebel army.  At all events as there are tents scattered all over the immense field, the crop will be effectually blasted.  This country is sparsely settled, and but little cultivated.  It is a beautiful region, but soil generally poor – yet good enough to produce will under free culture.  Whether our camp is in Tennessee or Mississippi, I do not know.  It is certainly very near the line, and about seven miles from Corinth.

Yesterday afternoon there was heavy artillery firing several miles off, and for an hour or two we expected to be called to march and mingle in the strife.  The roar of guns finally died away, and the cause remains yet unexplained to us.  At night we were ordered to provide four days rations, and may any hour be ordered to march leaving our tents behind.

Yesterday, our regimental commander commenced “stripping” us for a fight or quicker marching.  Each company left behind two or three of its five Sibley tents, one of the two officers’ tents, and all the “property” that could be spared, the hospital and extra commissary stores, bed ticks, extra blankets and sick.  Although we have not so large a sick list as a week ago (about one hundred off duty now) yet the sick have been a great incumbrance, and their frequent removals over these very rough roads have been anything but beneficial.  Every regiment has a train of convalescents straggling in its rear when changing camps, with the bed confined to follow in ambulances and wagons.  Yesterday our sick were sent to the river hospital, excepting those likely to be ready for duty in a few days.  This will greatly relieve us, and be better for them.  Several of our officers are sick, and this morning Capt. Smith, of Co. A, will be sent to the hospital, where he out to have been days ago.  He is the “noblest Roman of all,” did his whole duty in the battle, and has been the most eager for another fight.  The prevailing sickness is diarrhea, and it seems uncommonly difficult to control.  Mere astringent medicines will not do it in most cases, but the cause has to be struck at.  The 15th has about two hundred on its sick list, and ever regiment has a pretty large list.  There are however, but few deaths.  Several have died in our regiment, and among them is the old drummer, Mr. Russell, of Boone county.  He was 78 years old, and was a drummer in the war of 1812.  He had not been well since we left Camp McClellan, and here he got the diarrhea which in a few days carried him off.

A letter in the Lyons Mirror has created great indignation among our men and officers, from Clinton Co. especially.  Speaking of the battle the writer (suspected to be an officer most ridiculously bepuffed in the letter) says the 15th did not leave the field until the 77th Ohio and the 16th Iowa had retired.  Now the fact is, the 16th did not leave till that identical 15th flag sent home to the State Historical Society with several holes in it, had gone from the field, and the most of the 15th with it.  This flag had been stuck up on a stump in the battle, and was a pretty mark to shoot at, and without endangering the color sergeant or guard.  I was in another part of the field, but these are told me as facts by a number of reliable officers and men who witnessed what they state.  Our color sergeant was killed while gallantly bearing his banner, and six of the eight color guard wounded.  The 15th did not occupy the position at all stated by this Lyons Mirror correspondent, who was either not in the battle or too badly scared to notice the position of things.  Both regiments did well, and neither should, in doing justice to itself, do injustice to the other.  Both have been outrageously slandered, without cause, and both are eager for another fight to properly annihilate these slanders by deeds instead of words.

Our old friend Wilkie, the war correspondent of the N. Y. Times, is in our camp nearly every day, and is actively at work getting items in this great field of military operations.

J. B.

– Published in The Davenport Daily Gazette, Davenport, Iowa, Thursday Morning, May 15, 1862, p. 2

Tuesday, July 16, 2013

From The 11th Iowa Regiment

2 MILES WEST OF BATTLE GROUND,
PITTSBURG, TENN., April 28.

EDITOR GAZETTE:– On Friday last the Iowa 11th and 13th struck tents and marched out about 3 miles to a new camping ground, to the front and in line of battle with the army here.  Shortly afterwards the Iowa 15th and 16th arrived, and moved to our left.  These four regiments constitute the third brigade of the 6th division of the army of the West.  The division is under Gen. McKean, and this brigade is commanded by Col. Crocker of the 13th Iowa, and is the first and only brigade made up wholly of Iowa troops.

The Colonel commanding the brigade has the entire confidence of all who know him.  Col. Crocker is a good officer; at the head of his troops and in the thickest of the fray on Sunday, he gallantly lead the regiment, until Col. Hare’s injuries compelled him to leave the field, and the command of the brigade devolved on Col. Crocker, and no one who witnessed the heroic endurance with which his command still held the foe at bay, until night closed the scene can fail to appreciate the skill and honor his heroism and that of his men.

Our New Iowa brigade will do no discredit to our gallant State.  The best feeling prevails between the different regiments, and we all feel happy to be brigaded with a regiment that has so nobly vindicated the courage of our State, as the 13th, and under so noble a commander as Col. Crocker.  I might give thrilling incidents of the conduct of both officers and men of the 13th in the late engagement, as narrated to me, but prefer to leave this to others, who say and partook of the action with them.

We all concluded on Monday that among the most beautiful and moving things in history of poetry, were “Buell’s lines on Beauregard.

On Saturday our regiment had scarcely settled down in our new quarters, and dried off the rain of the day before, from clothing and accoutrements, when we were visited, on half hour notice, by. Gen. Inspection, (who is at no time a very welcome visitor to the soldiers) by Gen. Halleck, Inspector General.

Gen. Pope’s army has arrived, bringing up the Iowa 2d Cavalry and the 4th and 10th regiments of Infantry.  Your readers may think it a vastly pleasant time here to visit friends and enjoy this warm spring weather – birds singing overhead, and the pleasant breezes blowing through your evening tent, as you sit around the supper table, narrating thrilling incidents and “hair-breadth escapes.”  In reality it is almost as difficult to visit one’s friend outside the division to which we belong, as though States intervened.  Gen. Halleck has issued orders, forbidding company officers or men leaving their own division (except on duty) under any pretext, without leave from headquarters.

Mr. Editor, as one who had some little part in the battle of Pittsburg Landing, I am vexed to see those who took no part in Sunday’s fight, saying we were whipped that day.  I desire to deny the assertion.  Borne back by numbers, but with unconquered will, 20,000 brave men of the morning army fought through this day and lay on their arms at night to renew the fight next morning, and with Lew. Wallace’s division we would have won the battle on Monday.  No army is beaten while it can raise such a force and with such feelings as animated out brave men.

The sun shines once more warm and drying.  Skirmishers are out ahead and little encounters of pickets and skirmishers are of daily occurrence.  Look out for large events ere long.  Our army has all confidence in Gen. Halleck.  The health of our men is improving and we were ready to act at any time.

We have already buried over 3,000 of the rebel dead, from the late battle, and we are still finding them were their wounded were abandoned in their flight of Monday night.  Our present camp is near where Gens. Johnston and Beauregard lay the night before the battle.

Yours truly,
Co. B, 11TH IOWA.

– Published in The Davenport Daily Gazette, Davenport, Iowa, Monday Morning, May 5, 1862, p. 2

Thursday, June 27, 2013

Thomas Jefferson McKean

WEST POINTER AND CIVIL ENGINEER

Another soldier by profession was Thomas Jefferson McKean, born in Burlington, Pa., August 21, 1810. He was graduated from the Military Academy in 1831 and was assigned to the Fourth Infantry. In 1834 he resigned to engage in engineering. He became engineer-in-chief of the “Ramshorn” railroad, between Keokuk and Dubuque. During the Florida war he served as adjutant of the First Pennsylvania Volunteers. He served in the Mexican war as a private and was wounded at Cherubusco. Brevetted second-lieutenant, he resigned and returned to engineering. He became paymaster in the regular army in 1861, and in November of that year was appointed brigadier-general of volunteers. He served in the Mississippi campaign in the spring of 1862 and participated in the battle of Corinth. In 1863 he commanded the northeast district of Missouri. In 1864 he was in command in Kansas, on the Gulf and in Western Florida. He was brevetted major-general in March, 1865, and in August of that year was mustered out. He then engaged in farming near Marion, Iowa. In 1868 he was a delegate to the Republican National Convention. In 1869 he declined a pension agency tendered him by President Grant. He died in Marion, April 19, 1870.

SOURCE: Johnson Brigham, Iowa: Its History and Its Foremost Citizens, Volume 1, p. 376-7

We make the following extract from a letter . . .

. . . to the Washington Press, written by its editor, then at Pittsburg:

PITTSBURG, Tenn., April 20, 1862.

Gen. McKean, of Iowa, arrived here from Missouri on the 12th, and was immediately assigned a division in the advance.  He found his troops in a very disorganized condition, and almost entirely destitute of field officers.  The 18th Wisconsin and 25th Missouri had only two captains in each regiment – all the rest having been killed, wounded or taken prisoner.  The 15th and 16th Iowa were the only troops from our State in the division, and they with all the rest, suffered severely in the battle.  Gen. McKean immediately set about reorganizing and strengthening his command – his first effort being to get the 11th and 13th Iowa transferred from McClernand’s to his division, and, with the 15th and 16th, constitute a brigade of troops which could be depended upon in all emergencies.  This has finally been effected, or is about to be, and the brigade will be commanded by Col. Crocker of the 13th, one of Iowa’s best officers.  Gen. McKean’s division will now consist of the four Iowa regiments first named; the 16th, 17th and 18th Wisconsin, the 15th Michigan, and the 21st, 53d [sic] and 25th Missouri.  This division will be the advance of Gen. Grant’s command, and when the troops move, will advance by the left, throwing the third brigade, Col. Crocker in its front.

Gen. McKean is a very fine appearing, courteous and affable officer, rather below the medium stature, but compactly and solidly built, his hair and thick growth of whiskers well sprinkled with silver gray.  It is not difficult to perceive that he has been a regular army officer, from the decision to precision with which he manages the details and movements of the troops under his command; the confidence reposed in him by Gen. Halleck may be inferred by his being placed in command of the division of a Major General in the advance.

The Incessant rains that have fallen here for several days have interfered somewhat with the movement of the troops, but the cheerfulness of our men is unflagging.  They feel that Buell and Halleck here, competent men are in command, and that there will be no more surprises.

The telegraph connects the camps of our various division is front with General Halleck’s head quarters, and ever movement is controlled and directed by him.

– Published in The Davenport Daily Gazette, Davenport, Iowa, Friday Morning, May 2, 1862, p. 1

Thursday, May 2, 2013

Iowa Legislature

(Special to the Hawk-Eye.)

– Des Moines, Jan. 24.

Nothing important in the Senate.


HOUSE. – A resolution was introduced requesting Adjutant General Baker to furnish the House with the names of all the members of the Governor’s staff – compensation of each, and from what funds paid.  Adopted.

Mr. LANE, of Scott, presented a resolution instructing the Committee on Ways and Means to inquire into the expediency of transferring the School Fund monies to the State as a loan, and provides that the State shall pay the annual interest thereon.

Mr. HARDIE, of Dubuque, tried to get up the tabled resolution instructing the committee to report a license law.  Negatived, 77 to 15.

The vote on the special order of 2 P. M. for assuming the Federal tax, vote in favor of the bill stood, ayes 90, nays 2. Kellogg, [of] Decatur and Hardie, of Dubuque, voting against the bill.  The bill provides for the collection of $450,000 each year for the years 1862 and 1863.

The House adopted the bill making the issues of the State Bank of Iowa and Us demand notes receivable of taxes – ayes 71, nays 19.

A provision was also adopted that the bill expires by its on limitation February 1st, 1864.  A good day’s work.


(Special to Burlington Hawk-Eye.)

DES MOINES, Jan. 24, 1862.

Hon. C. C. Carpenter, of Ft. Dodge, has received the appointment of Brigadier Quarter-Master under Brigadier General McKean, in Missouri, secured through the influence of Hon. James W. Grimes.
T. H. S.


DES MOINES, Jan. 25.

HOUSE. – A communication from the Governor in answer to the resolution of the House asking how regimental officers were appointed, was received and read.  The paper is an able one, citing the law of Congress on the subject, and fully justifying the course.  Ordered to be printed.

Also, a resolution of the House, asking how many acres of Railroad land had been certified to the Secretary of the Interior showing there has been seven hundred and twenty sections certified to the Dubuque and Pacific Railroad, by the Governor and his predecessor, and the same amount to the Mississippi and Missouri Railroad.  He has no official notice of the length of the Burlington and Missouri Railroad, and has certified no land to that company.  Passed.


SENATE. – A resolution was presented asking the attention of Congress to the neglected condition of Iowa troops and their want of more surgeons, nurses and hospital stores.

Mr. HARDIE of Dubuque presented a petition forty feet long asking the repeal of the prohibitory and establish a license law.

The Military Committee reported back Mr. Delavey’s resolution asking a reduction of the salaries of commissioned officers, abolishing sutlers, and all except one band to each Brigade.  It will pass.

The Senate spent most of the Session discussing the Post Master question for the Assembly.

The Ways and Means Committee reported back Senator Gue’s bill fixing juror’s fees at one dollar and twenty five cents, and collecting six dollars cost to be paid by the losing party.

– Published in The Burlington Weekly Hawk-Eye, Burlington, Iowa, Saturday, February 1, 1862, p. 4

Wednesday, September 14, 2011

Flying Visit

Capt. Wm. T. Clark, A. A. A. G., arrived in town Saturday evening from the South, and after a short visit home left again for the army yesterday morning.  He is still on Gen. McKean’s staff.

– Published in The Davenport Daily Gazette, Davenport, Iowa, Tuesday Morning, March 25, 1862, p. 1

Wednesday, August 31, 2011

Iowa At Island No. 10


It is pretty certain that the Iowa brigade, under command of Brig. Gen. McKean and composed of the 6th, 11th and 18th regiments and the 5th Ohio Battery, is a participant in the battle now being fought at Island No. 10, in the Mississippi river.  Our State is represented, and bravely so, in every battle that occurs in the West.  It is our battle ground.

– Published in The Davenport Daily Gazette, Davenport, Iowa, Tuesday Morning, March 18, 1862, p. 1

Friday, August 26, 2011

From The Eighth Iowa Infantry


SEDALIA, Mo., March 10, 1862.

TO THE EDITOR OF THE DAVENPORT GAZETTE. – The time we have been wishing to arrive has, I believe, come at last.  An order has been received by our Col. ordering our regiment to the seat of war.  Orders of this kind are you know, usually exceedingly brief – simply stating the fact, and leaving the point of destination in interesting and exciting obscurity, thus giving ample scope for those in camp who have to speculate on the unseen and unknown, to exercise their speculative features.  I believe the present order commands our regiment to proceed to St. Louis so soon as railroad cars for men, baggage, mules, horses, wagons, &c. shall have been sent here in sufficient number for our removal.  When we reach St. Louis we shall probably learn more definitely where we are bound for.  From what I have been able to learn from authentic sources, it seems a brigade of Iowa troops is soon to be formed, to be commanded by Brig. Gen. McKean, and designed to take an active part in the fighting which is expected to be done in Kentucky, Tennessee or further South.  This brigade is to consist of the 6th, 8th, 11th and 13th Iowa Infantry, all of which are now stationed at different points along the Pacific RR.  One regiment will probably get off to-morrow evening or the next morning.  Our boys are all rejoiced at the prospect of meeting the enemies of our country and flag in open and fair field fight.  We are quite willing to leave “bush wacking,” for the more honorable civilized mode of warfare.  Remembering the caution, “let not him that putteth on his armor boast himself as much as he that taketh it off;” we make no promises or protestations, further than that we will do what we can to maintain in undimmed brightness, and if we are able add to the luster of that glorious halo which already surrounds the arms of the State of Iowa.  We have full confidence in our field and line officers, none less in the valor and patriotism of our men.

The order to march was received by our Col. – sent on to him by an express from Sedalia – while on

A SCOUTING EXPEDITION.

Information had been brought by refugees that an organized band, variously estimated at from 300 to 1,000, under the command of Jackman and Marchbank, recruiting officers holding the rank of Captain in Price’s army, was stealing, robbing and murdering in Bates Co. and the lower portion of Henry Co.  This information being regarded as reliable, Col. Geddes determined to pay his compliments to these armed marauders in a way they would be likely to remember.  Last Monday morning, Mch. 3d, he left Sedalia for the purpose of executing this determination.  The force which he commanded in person, consisted of the 1st battalion 1st Iowa cavalry, under Maj. Torrence, five Cos. 8th Iowa infantry, under Lieut. Col. Ferguson and Maj. Andrews, three Cos. 26th Indiana and two of the 6th Missouri, under Maj. Clark (this battalion was sent up from Otterville,) and one section 1st Mo. light artillery, under Lieut. Marr.  The weather was exceedingly cold, the wind blowing strong and freezing across the prairies and directly in our faces.  Nothing of interest occurred the first day out.  The second day, in temperature and wind, was like unto the first.  We passed through the village of Belmont, formerly very strongly “secesh,” now almost deserted, and thence onward to  Clinton, the county seat of Henry Co., When near this place the advance guard was ordered to charge on the town, and guard every load leading out.  This order was promptly and well executed.  When the command came up we found about 40 persons “corralled.”  A motley group this; clothed in various colored home-made linsey, divers[e] and curious head rigging in the shape of what were or had been hats and caps, with blankets white and blankets grey thrown over their shoulders and ingeniously fastened about the neck.  We had come upon the town unexpectedly, and with a rapidity which gave the fellows from the country, who were in town, no chance for escape.  Doubtless most of those we caught had been in Price’s army – perhaps some belonged to Jackman’s band. – One man was taken on a Government horse branded U. S., with a Government saddle; two we took along with us and have brought into Sedalia.  The balance, as nothing could be proved against them, were sworn en masse and turned loose. – It was a novel sight, that – forty men, more or less, with uncovered head and right hand uplifted, swear allegiance to the Constitution and the “Old Flag,” and to repudiate the Jefferson D. confederacy.  I fear they will not all keep that oath.  That night we went on to the Deep Water, and lay out in the timber on its bank.  We were well sheltered from the wind, but the ground was frozen hard, and where I lay down not very smooth.  Next Morning we were up by daylight, and by sunrise we were on our way to one Rickey’s store, a notorious stronghold and headquarters of the thieving rebel band where we expected to meet the enemy in force.  In this we were disappointed.  The rebels by some means found we were too strong for them, and ran for their hiding places like rabbits.  As we approached the store, we could see mounted men on all sides, hastening with all dispatch across the prairie to the timber.  They were too far from us, and too near the timber, to send out cavalry in pursuit.  Soon as the command came up to the store, skirmishers of infantry were sent out through the timber, and scouts of cavalry over the prairies in different directions.  Some of our skirmishers had the pleasure of exchanging shots with the rebels, and returned late in the afternoon, with a diversity of fire-arms, and many prisoners.  The cavalry were out all night, and next morning brought in between 20 and 30 prisoners and arms in proportion.  Among the prisoners was Capt. Marchbank.  The scouting party which took him got after Jackman, but he, being acquainted with the country, and well mounted, while our horses were jaded with the three days’ and one night’s hard riding, escaped their grasp.  Next evening our command started from Round Prairie, taking an occasional prisoner and fire-arm as we passed along.  Soon as the men could get at it, skirmishing and scouting parties were sent out.  Cos. C & K had a very interesting skirmish with some rebel pickets, killing one and capturing several of their horses.  We had by this time 60 or 70 prisoners, about as many firearms – rifles, muskets, shot guns, carbines, &c., - three kegs of powder, and several pounds of shot.  The afternoon and evening at headquarters were very busily occupied in examining the prisoners and administering the oath, requiring bonds, and then turning them loose, or remanding them again to the charge of our soldiers for safe conduct to this place. – Thinking that perhaps some of your readers may be curious to know what we make the fellows swear I send you a copy of the

OATH OF ALLEGIANCE.

“Without mental reservation, I do most solemnly swear, in the presence of God whom I call to witness my sincerity and fidelity, that I do, and will hereafter continue to bear true and faithful allegiance to the Government of the United States and to the old flag, ‘the stars and stripes;’ that I do, and will forever repudiate all allegiance to, or sympathy with the so-called Confederate States of America; and that I will never aid or abet, or render any assistance or comfort by word or act, or in any way or manner to the so-called Confederate States of America, so help me God.”  This oath was gotten up by one of our number for the occasion, and was taken by no less than thirty-six, whose names and places of residence I have carefully recorded.

While at Round Prairie the order to go South reached our Colonel.  It was his intention to give the rebels in that neighborhood a longer benefit, but the order cut our visit short.

Friday morning we took the back track, bringing along with us several Union refugee families whose neighbors would not allow them to remain.  This action of the refugees – coming away under the protection of our command – excited still more the ire of their enemies, who hung in squads about our rear threatening an attack, which, however, they were prudent enough not to attempt.  This afternoon information was brought Col. Geddes that a band of about 150 rebels were skulking in some timber a little off our line of march.  He immediately sent out a detachment of cavalry who engaged in a skirmish with them, but neither killed or captured any.  In this skirmish a man was slightly wounded in the neck by two buckshot, and his horse was killed.  This was the only casualty in our command.  We went in camp Friday night having marched that day 34 miles.

Saturday we came on to Sedalia.  The command came in about 4 P. M., making 36 miles.  It will be seen that in less and two days we marched 70 miles.  This, I think, will be admitted on all hands, as very good marching for Infantry, even though they did ride in wagons drawn by mules.  The aggregate distance was about 150 miles, exclusive of the extra miles, and they were many – travelled by skirmishers and scouting parties.

We brought in with out about 30 prisoners, who in due time will be tried, and some of them, I think, sent to the penitentiary at Alton.

The country through which we passed was very fine indeed.  I cannot conceive of a better agricultural country.  Our course was southwest through broad rich prairies, well supplied with timber and streams of water.

It has not yet transpired what Infantry regiment will take our place here.  Nearly all the 1st Iowa Cavalry are now here, the balance will be in a few days.

I hope to write you again before many days, and to have the satisfaction of dating my letter many miles south of Sedalia.  I trust the onward movement may be pressed with activity and vigor, till secessionists are swept from “Secessia” into the Southern Gulf.  Let us nail to the flag-staff a red flag on which is emblazoned in indelible characters the watchword “Forward to victory,” and bear it in advance of the glorious old “Stars and Stripes,” till this revered ensign floats triumphantly over the tomb of Rebellion, and the dishonored ashes of traitors.

Yours, &c.

C.

– Published in The Davenport Daily Gazette, Davenport, Iowa, Saturday Morning, March 15, 1862, p. 1

Wednesday, July 27, 2011

From St. Louis

ST. LOUIS, March 10.

The expedition sent out from Sedalia by Brig. Gen. McKean into Bates county has just returned with 40 prisoners of war, recruits for Price’s army, and a quantity of arms and ammunition.


Special to St. Louis Democrat

CROSS HOLLOW, Ark., March 1.

Vigorous reconnoisances are kept up to watch the enemy’s movements and foraging parties are active in obtaining supplies. – Pork and beef are purchased in abundance in the vicinity, and about half the quantity of flour required is obtained in the same manner, and all our forage.

Price, whose retreat is acknowledged on all hands to have been ably conducted, has found refuge in Boston mountains.  From two deserters, who came into camp yesterday, it is ascertained that he is encamped on Cave Creek road, while McCulloch is posted one and a half miles distant.  The latter had burnt the village near the Indian frontier, known as Caul Hill.  The supplies of the rebel army are obtained from Van Buren.

It is stated in good authority that Price and McCulloch had a violent quarrel before leaving Cross Hollow.

At Fayetteville we found all the telegraphic dispatches, up to the time of the evacuation of the rebels.  A dispatch from McIntosh to Herbert, in command at Cross Hollow, urges him to press forward and reinforce Price at Springfield, and all hazards, as that point is important to be held by the Confederates.

Ex-Senator Johnson, of Mo., who opened a recruiting office in Springfield, for the rebels, previous to Price’s departure, was the first to reach Fayetteville, where he stopped several days.

The Clemency of Gen. Curtis and the policy inaugurated in relations to the treatment of citizens of Benton county, is bringing its reward in the general confidence already showing indications of being restored among fugitives, who fled at our approach.

Confederate bills, which were 25 cents discount on our arrival in Benton county, have suddenly become valueless, and the inhabitants themselves refuse to take them.

Major Wright learns that the citizens of Keitsville knew of the intended attack on that place, and communicated the intelligence to the rebels, but kept all intimation of it from Capt. Montgomery.

The afternoon before the fight the ladies of the village left, one by one, and during the attack were all out.

Major Wright also learns that there are five hundred and fifty rebels in Cedar Co., Mo., and 190 in Dade Co.  These parties are committing depredations and swearing vengeance against Union men.

The health of the troops has been good particularly on the march.

– Published in The Davenport Daily Gazette, Davenport, Iowa, Tuesday Morning, March 11, 1862, p. 1

Saturday, July 23, 2011

From The 11th Iowa Regiment

FRIEND SANDERS:  In your issue of yesterday morning your types made two mistakes, rather mortifying to a correspondent.  Two say that two men were “mortally wounded,” while one of them still survives, with a fair prospect of recovery, is hardly correct.  I intended to say “mutually wounded.”  Instead, also of saying that certain ones “hug slavery as the dearest part of their souls,” it should read “dearest pet,” 8c.  Illegible manuscript was probably the cause of these mistakes.

The 11th regiment has been again subdivided.  On Saturday evening last, an order was received by Col. Hare to send two companies, together with two companies of the 3rd Iowa Cavalry, all under command of Major Caldwell, to take post at Mexico, on the North Missouri railroad.  The two companies of our regiment (D and F,) marched, of course, on Sunday as usual.  The cavalry followed next day, and all reached Mexico on Monday evening.

We had been informed by acting assistant Adjutant General Wm. T. Clark that the Iowa 6th, 8th, 11th, and 13th, together with a battalion of the 3rd Iowa Cavalry and an Ohio battery, were about to be brigaded under Gen. McKean, and moved to Tennessee.  This was good news to the boys, and when the order above-named was made known all seemed disappointed.  It may be, however, that the forming of this new brigade is only temporarily delayed.  It is understood to be the plan of Gen. Halleck to move the Federal troops from Missouri just as fast as the State militia shall be organized.  The Union people of Missouri fear as to the results of this plan, inasmuch as so long as Price is alive and at large the secessionists will still consider their cause as hopeful, and these rebels have little respect for or fear of State troops.  One regiment from Iowa is more formidable in their estimation than four times their number of Missourians.

Secessionism is by no means dead in Missouri, but everywhere, in every neighborhood, rebels and desperadoes are ready at any moment, either singly or in bands, to pounce upon the property of Union men, and would not hesitate to take the life of any who should stand in their way.  Nothing short of the death or capture of Price, or the complete subjugation of the rebels in nearly or quite all the other States, will finish up the work in Missouri.

The health of the 11th has greatly improved within the last month, though, I am sorry to say, there has been quite an increase in the number of cases of small pox.  This disease however, much as it is dreaded, has proved to be far less fatal with us, than measles or pneumonia.  We have lost 33 in all, and only 2 of small pox out of more than 50 cases.

I am at home – Durant – for a few days, on leave of absence, expecting to return, if improving health permits, about the 20th of the present month, when I shall be happy to carry messages or tokens from friends to any of the boys or officers.

But “O my!” what a winter you are having up here in March.  On Monday last.  I road 15 miles in an open buggy, and found myself covered with mud.  Yesterday – Wednesday – I reached your city, and found the Railroad blocked with snow. – We had in Missouri, the week before Christmas, about four inches of snow, which lasted nearly a week, since which time the ground has scarcely been covered.  I saw but very little snow on Tuesday, on the line of the Chicago and St. Louis Railroad – much of the way none.  In several instances the farmers were dragging down the corn stalks preparatory to plowing. – But here in Iowa king winter reigns supreme.  Still I would rather live in Iowa than in Missouri.  To say nothing of society and other things, the weather is far more even, and the climate more healthy. – And so far as the state of society is concerned – morals, religion and everything which goes to make up good society – Missouri bears no comparison with Iowa. – Should our more southern sister ever get rid of slavery, as undoubtedly she will, the way will be opened for an improvement in many respects.  But a generation must probably pass away, and a large number of a different class of people must enter the State before she can overtake Iowa in many things most desirable.  In the matter of fruit raising, Missouri is ahead of us, and will remain so.  But all things considered, a residence in Iowa is and will be at least for one or two generations, for more desirable to right minded people than in Missouri.

Yours truly,

CHAPLAIN,
11th Iowa Regiment.

DURANT, March 6, 1862

– Published in The Davenport Daily Gazette, Davenport, Iowa, Monday Morning, March 10, 1862, p. 2