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There are no known copyright restrictions in the United States on the use of the text. http://www.archive.org/details/cu31924030922680 IN CAMP AND BATTLE WITH THE WASHINGTON ARTILLERY NEW ORLEANS A NARRATIVE OF EVENTS DURING THE LATE CIVIL WAR FROM BULL RUN TO APPOMATTOX AND SPANISH FORT Compiled by the Adjutant^from his Diary and from Authentic Documents and Orders ILLUSTRATED WITH MAPS AND ENGRAVINGS '•When a historian -would be deemed omcular, He must preserve date, time, and place in his vernacular/ WM. MILLER OWEN First Lieutenant and Adjutant B.W^, BOSTON TICKNOR AND COMPANY i88s Copyright, iSSs, By Wm. Miller O'w'en. All riglUs reserved. PREFACE. A FEW days prior to the battles of Bull Eun and -^ Manassas, in July, 1861, an order was issued from the head-quarters of Gen. Beauregard in reference to the posting, at the several fords over Bull Run, the different brigades and batteries of the Confederate forces under his command, to meet the advance of the array of invasion, under Gen. McDowell, then on its march towards Rich- mond from Washington. I remember the last sentence of the order ; it read as follows : " In the event of the defeat of the enemy he is to be pursued with cavalry and artillery until he is driven across the Potomac." After the affair of the 18th July, McDowell's advance having arrived at Centreville, orders were issued, on tlie night of the 20th, or the morning of the 21st, July, to Gen- erals Ewell, D. R. Jones, and Longstreet, to cross their commands at their respective fords, and taking the different roads in their front, concentrating at Centreville, to attack IV PBEFACE. McDowell in flank as he continued his march down the ^arrenton turnpike southward. One or more of these orders miscarried, and a great dis- pute arose as to the exact hour of the receipt of others b_v the commanding oiEcers to whom thev were addressed. Meanwhile McDowell chose his crossing-place at Sudlej Ford, on Bidl Eim, completelv flanking the left of the Con- federate armv, causing the battle to be fought on entirely other ground from what was anticipated. After the battle it was readily seen how important it was for oflicers (commanding and staff) to keep an exact record of date, time, and place of all incidents by " flood and field," to assist in stating, in official reports, fiicts which coidd not be controverted. Being at that time First Lieutenant and Adjutant of the Batt:Uion AVasliington Artillerv of Xew Orleans, and real- izing the importance of this method, I resolved henceforth to be specially careful in my record of events. I adhered rigidly to this determination until the surrender of General Lee at Appomattox Coiu-t-House, and upon these records our official reports were made as long as I remained Adju- tant of the Battalion. These records, and many important original orders, are still in my possession, and, at the urgent request of Gen- PBETACE. V eral Fitz Lee and others, I have endeaTored to prepare them in this form for the use of the fatnre historian, should they prove of sufficient importance. I do not pretend to write a history of the Civil War, nor any romance, nor will I set down anght in malice, but " Will a round, luiTamished tale deliTer Of the battles, sieges, fortune, Hiat I liare pasE'd," which made up our es^perience and life during four years' service in the armies of the Confederate States. TTM. 5IILUER OWEX, Firxl Lievt. and Adj. Battalion Washington Artillery, 1861, A. N. Va. 'Sqite. — For fbe ninstiations of this Tolmne I am tmder obligatioiis to Capt. Fred iL Colston, of Baltimore, Md., fonnerly Ordnance Officer of CoL Alex- ander's Battalion ArtiHerr, A.'N'.T., for his kindness in baving photographic copies taken, ixam. original drawings in his po&ession, of War Scenes br the eminent American artists, Allen C. Bedwood, W. L. Sheppard, and John A- Elder. For the accnrate and finely execnted 'iSxgs I hare to thank Mr. W. J. Hardee, C3?il Engineer, New Oileans, La. IcETTEB FBOM Wil. PBESTOX JOHNSOIf. 136 Gravxkb Stkeet, Kett OBi.EA3rs, April 12, ISSl. Col. W. ArTT.T.vH Owes, New OrUam, La. : — • Mt deab Sie, — I hare read with great interest the MSS. of your proposed Tolnme, and can congratulate you on the success with which you hare carried out yonr plan. The book is remarkably entertaining, and full of inrident, as is quite natural. vi PREFACE. since it was harfly possible for any officer to have a more eyentful experience than you had in the army. Yon won deserved distinction on many fields, and it is a source of satisfaction to me that I perceived your merit early in the war ; and to be distinguished in a corps of such especial renown as the " Washington Artilleiy," won in such an army as Lee's, is a record of which any man may be proud. You had the good fortune, too, to gain the special commendation of some of our best Generals. The narrative of your personal experience has, therefore, a peculiar value to all students of warfare. I have not verified the historical accuracy of your book, but I may say that in the points which came under my observation from September, 1861, till the close of the war, and they are veiy numerous, your account is marked by that veracity in purpose and detail of fact without which such a narrative has no historical value. I am sure your intention is always to he just, and the magnanimity and cheerfulness of your temper make it generally easy for you. I regard your book as a valuable contribution to the histoiy of the war, and, indeed, to the history of warfare, from the side-lights it lets in on the life of the soldier. Wishing you much success, I am, very sincerely, your friend, (Signed), WM. PEESTON JOHSTSTOST. LETTER FROM COL. J. B. WALTON. New Orleans, May 31, 1884. Col. W. Miller Owen, New Orleans, La. : — Mt dear Sir, — Having carefully read your very interesting narrative, compiled from your Diary, kept while Adjutant of the Battalion Washington Artillery, and from a mass of authentic documents, it affords me peculiar satisfaction to congratulate you upon having written a book upon the war, at once entertaining and accurate in all the statements and incidents you so happily and graphically describe. My position during the war as Colonel of the Battalion Washington Artillery of New Orleans, and Chief of Artillery of the First Corps, Army of Northern Virginia, enables me to give the fullest endorsement to the historical accuracy of your intci'csting volume. You have succeeded in presenting a book upon the war, at once entertaining and so replete with fact and incident that it deserves, as it will be, to be universally read and appreciated. The advantage you possess of having been a prominent and distinguished actor in the scenes and events you describe, shows itself unmistakably all through the pages of your veracious and modest narrative. I heartily commend it as a notable and most worthy production. I am, very truly, yours, (Signed), J. B. WALTON. Co MY COMRADES "BATTALION WASHINGTON ARTILLERY" OF NEW ORLEANS, IN ADMIRATION OF THEIR GALLANTRY AND DEVOTION TO PRINCIPLE, AS EXHIBITED UPON SO MANY BATTLE-FIELDS IN THE LATE CIVIL WAR, THIS VOLUME IS DEDICATED. CONTENTS. CHAPTER I. EABLY HISTOKY OF THE WASHINGTON ARTILLERY. The Washington ArtiUeiy before the War. — Its Organization. — War Clouds, 1861. — Expedition to Baton Rouge. — Seizure of U.S. Ar- senal. — Sei-viees of Battalion Offered to Confederate Goyernment. — Accepted for the War. — Mustering in. — Ordered to Virginia. — Departure from New Orleans. — Lynchburg. — Richmond. — Camp Beauregard. — Manassas. — Camp Louisiana. — Head-quarters. — Personelle. — Our French Cooks, and Cooks in general 1 CHAPTER II. ADDRESS TO THE ARMY. Enemy on the March. — • Camp Broken Up. — McLean's Ford. Union MiUs. — Rebel Girl. — Engagement at Blackburn's Ford, July 18. — Our Armament. — Battle of Manassas. — Bee, Bartow, Hampton, and Bob Wheat. — " Stonewall Jackson." — Hard Tack and SheiTy. — Beauregard and Johnston. — Griffin's and Rickett's Batteries. — Defeat of the Enemy. — Pi'esident Davis. — Appearance of a Battle-field. — Official Repoi-ts 24 CHAPTER III. BACK IN CAMP. Back in Camp. — Retrospection. — Bountiful. Larder. — New Friends. — Appointments and Promotions. — Our Camps. — Camp Ben- jamin. — President Davis Reviews the Anny. — Centi'eville. — Quaker Guns. — New Tents. — New Battle-flags Distributed. — ix CONTENTS. Battle at Ball's Bluff. — " Chasseurs-i-pied." — " Here's Your Mule." — "Bolivar Ward." — Col. P. T. Moore. — Major Bob Wheat.— Col. Harry Hays. — " Noctes Ambrosia." — " Little White House on Salisbury Plains." — Winter Quarters. — Waltonville CHAPTER rV. JASUAEY, 1862. Conti-ibutions to Charleston Sufferers. — Mardi Gras in Camp. — Dixie Artillery and Chasseurs-a-pied. — The " Waltonville War Cry." — Snow-balling. — Beauregard Ordered South. — Attached to Long- street's Division. — Winter Quarters Abandoned. — On the March. — Orange Court-house. — Dancing Club. — Richmond. — Peninsula. — Wilhamsburg. — Yorktown. — Richmond. — Camp at Blakey's MiU- pond. — McClellan Investing the City 70 CHAPTER V. FIGHTING NEAR RICHMOND. Seven Pines. —Fair Oaks. — Dr. Garnett's. — Gen. R. E. Lee. — Gen. Johnston Wounded. — Seven Days' Battle around Richmond. — Siege of Richmond Raised. — " Change of Base." — McClellan at Harrison's Landing. — Flag of Ti-uce. — Exchange of Prisoners at Aiken's Landing 82 CHAPTER VI. RAPPAHANNOCK STATION AND MANASSAS. Gordonsville. — Gen. John Pope. — March from Gordonsville. — Distribution of Batteries. — Spy Hanged. — Engagement at Rappa- hannock Station. — Enemy Moving. — Jackson in Rear of Pope. — Salem. — White Plains. — Narrow Escape of Gen. Lee. — Thorough- fare Gap. — Enemy in Possession. — Gen. Longstreet. — Advance of Longstreet's Coi'ps to Haymarket. — Gen. J. E. B. Stuart. — Jackson Fighting. — Artillery in Position. — Second Battle at Manassas. — Chantilly. — Gen. Phil Kearney Killed. — Onto Maryland. — Ford the Potomac 99 CONTENTS. xi CHAPTER VII. "MAEYLAND, MY MAKYLAKD." Explosion of Ammunition. — Boonesbcro'. — Hagerstown. — Dr. Ma- gaire. ^ Jackson to Havper's Ferry. — D. H. Hill at Boonesboro'. — Sharpsburg. — Lost Order of Gen. Lee. — 'Washington Artillery again in Battle. — Longstreet and Slatf as Gunners 130 CHAPTER VIII- ANTIETAM. Left Attack. — Burnsme's Bridge. — A Ride for Gen. Lee. — Attack of Enemy. — Squires, Richardson, and Eshleman Engaged. — D. R. Jones's Division Pressed Back. — Arrival of A. P. Hill. — Garden's and Riley's Batteries Engaged. — Defeat of Enemy. — Meeting of Generals. — Lee Dubs Longsti-eet his "Old War-Horse." — Quiet Day- after the Battle. — Army Crosses the Potomac. — Enemy Fol- lows. — Is Beaten Back. — March to Martinsburg. — Forces Engaged. — Address of Lee to the Army 150 CHAPTER IX. FREDERICKSBURG. Martinsburg. — Cnlpeper. — March to Fredericksburg. — Alarm Guns. — Boots and Saddles. — City Bombarded.— Enemy Crosses the Rappa- hannock. — Attack on Marye's Hill. — Great Battle Fought. — Enemy Beaten. — He Recrosses the River. — Winter Quarters 168 CHAPTER X. CHANCELLORSTILLE. Contribution to Fredericksburg. — On Recruiting Service. — " Battle House," Mobile, — Manassas Club. — Admiral Buchanan's Ball. — Confederate Guards. — New Orleans Refugees. — Lieutenant E. Owen. — Montgomery. — News from Camp. — Theatricals. — Back to Old Virginia. — Enemy Moving. — ChauceUorsville. — General xii CONTENTS. Jo. Hooker. — Sedgwick at Fredericksburg. — Barksdale's Brigade. — Early's Division. — Hays's Brigade. — "Washington Artillery on Marye's Hill. — Flag of Truce. — Enemy Attack. — Guns Lost. — Hooker Defeated. — Diary of a Captured Officer 200 CHAPTEK XI. GETTYSBTJEG. Army in Motion. — Culpeper. — Stuart's Cavalry Review. — Death of Pelham. — Chester Gap. — Ewell in Winchester. — Defeat of Mil- roy. — Fording the Potomac. — Lee's Orders. — Chambersburg. — Gettysburg. — Gen. Reynolds Killed. — Lee on Seminary Hill. — Col. Fremantle. — Capt. Ross. — Gen. Barksdale Killed. — Hood Wounded. — Grand Cannonade. — Pickett's Charge. — Retreat. — Williamsport. — Pettigrew Killed. — Crossing the Potomac .... 231 CHAPTEK XII. CHICKAMAUGA. — INDIAN, A "STREAM OF DEATH." Wm. Preston Johnston. — General Longstreet. — -Richmond. — Promo- tion. — S. W. Virginia. — Abingdon. — Gen. William Preston. — Knoxville. — March through Georgia. — McLemore's Cove. — Dug Gap. — Gen. Bragg. — Gen. Breckem-idge. — Fifth Company Wash- ington Ai'tiUeiy. — Gen. Gracie. — Gen. Polk. — Battle of Chicka- mauga. — Gen. Wm. H. Lytic Killed. — Preston's Charge up Mission- aiy Kidge. — Rosecrans in Chattanooga. — President Davis 263 CHAPTER XIII. EAST TENNESSEE AND DREAVRY'S BLUFF. Charleston. — Wilmington. — Richmond. — En Route to East Tennessee. — Lynchburg. — Longstreet at Knoxville. — Dublin. — Gen. Sam Jones. — My Birthday duly Celebrated. — Richmond. — Dinner at the Oriental. — East Tennessee again. — Report to Gen. Longstreet. — Assigned to Command a Battalion of Artillery. — Winter Campaign. — Return to Virginia. — Assigned to Duty with Washington Artillery CONTENTS. xiii at Petersburg. — Battle of Drewiy's Bluff. — Butler Bottled. — Presi- dent Davis on the Field. — Gen. Beauregard in Command. — Gen. Heckman Captured. — Belger's Battery Captured. — Flag of Truce. — Col. Otis, Tenth Connecticut. — Petersburg 294 CHAPTER XIV. GRANT nsr FRONT OF RICHMOND. Washington Artillery on the Chickahominy . — Assault at Cold Harbor. — Grant Marches to James River. — Petersburg. — The Siege. — Forts Hell and Damnation. — Shelling the City. — Citizens in Bomb-proofs. — Capt. Dunn. — " Dvm iiivimus, vivamus." — Gen. Alexander. — — Fourth of July. — Col. Walton's Resignation. — Explosion of the Mine. — Negro Troops. — Gibbs's Battalion of Artillery. — Flag of Truce , . 327 CHAPTER XV. IN THE TRENCHES AT PETERSBURG. Enemy on a Raid. — On the March. — Ice and Snow. — Christmas Din- ner. — Virginia Hospitality. — Gen. Pegram Killed. — Gen. J. B. Gordon — Louisiana Brigade. — Winter Quarters. — Hatcher's Run. — Short Rations. — Fasting and Prayer. — Sherman in Charleston. — Promotion. — Pickett at Five Forks. — Lines Broken. — Defence of Battery Gregg. — Petersbm-g Evacuated. — Gen. A. P. Hill Killed 358 CHAPTER XVI. SURRENDER OF THE ARMY OF NORTHERN VIRGINIA. On the Last Retreat. — Amelia Court-House. — Forty Hours without Food. — .Pursued by Cavaliy. — Wagons Burned. — Ai-my Demoral- ized. — Fighting, Marching, Starving. — Organization giving Way. — Marching without Orders. — Appomattox. — Gordon Fighting. — Artillery Captured — Custer, Sheridan, and Longstreet. — A Game of " Brag " 374 xiv CONTENTS. CHAPTER XVII. DISBAKDM'ENT, and HOIVIE AGAIN. Less than 8,000 Veterans with Lee. — Terms of Surrender. — Paroles. — Turning in our Batteries. — On to Mexico. — Lee's Farewell Addi'ess. — Dispersion of the Confederates. — On to Richmond. — General Halleck. — Sherman's Army. — Fortress Monroe and Baltimore. — " Barnum's Hotel." —" Maryland Club." —" New York Hotel." — Steamship " Monterey." — Bound for Home. — "Pelicans" Returning. — New Orleans. — Home Again CHAPTER XVIII. The Fifth Company Battalion Washington Ai'tiUery . . ._ CHAPTER XIX. CONCLUSION. The Washington ArtiUeiy after the War 425 ADDENDA. Popular Camp Songs of the Washington Artillery. — Muster-Eoll of the Washington Artilleiy from 1861 to 1865. — Memories of "TiytJs." — Roll of Honor 433 ILLUSTRATIONS. Facing Page Camp Louisiana 50 The Artillery Duel 104 Forming Line op Battle; Artillery and Skirmishers Engaged 276 Tout Perdu 392 MAPS. First Battle of Manassas, July 21, 1861 ... 40 Second Battle of Manassas, Aug. 29 and 30, 1862 . 116 Battle of Antietam, Sept. 17, 1862 142 Battle op Fredericksburg, Dec. 13, 1862 . . , 180 Federal Attack on Marye's Heights at Fredericks- burg, May 3, 1863 . . . . . . . .212 Battle op Gettysburg, July 3, 1863 250 Battle of Drewry's Bluff, May 16, 1864 . . .816 Entrenched Lines at Petersburg 330 XY THE WASHINGTON ARTILLERY. IN CAMP AND BATTLE THE WASHINGTON ARTILLERY. CHAPTER I. EARLY HISTORY OF THE WASHINGTON ARTILLERY. The Washington Artillery before the War. —Its Organization. — War Clouds, 1861. — Expedition to Baton Rouge. — Seizure of U.S. Ar- senal. — Services of Battalion offered to Confederate Government. — Accepted for the War. — Mustering in. — Ordered to Virginia. — Departure from New Orleans. — Lynchburg. — Richmond. — ■ Camp Beauregard. — Manassas. — Camp Louisiana. — Head-quarters. — Personelle. — Our French Cooks, and Cooks in general. THE Washington Artillery of New Orleans is distin- guished as being the oldest military organization in the State of Louisiana. In the year 1840 the Washington Regiment, com- manded by Col. Persifer F. Smith, was the only mili- 'tary organization in the American quarter of the city. It was composed of cavalry, infantry, and artillery, partaking of the character of a legion. The Washington Artillery, then just reorganized (Feb- ruary 22, 1840), was the right-flank company of the regi- ment. 2 THE WASHINGTON ARTILLERY. Thus composed, the regiment became the crack corps of the State. Upon the breaking out of the war with Mexico, in 1846, the Washington Artillery, under a requisition from Gen. Zacharj Taylor, volunteered, and with its battery of six 6- pounder bronze guns, proceeded to Corpus Christi, Texas, where Gen. Taylor and his army were then encamped, and remained there three months in the service of the United States, without incident. At the expiration of that time the battery returned to New Orleans, and was mustered out of service. In May, 1846, another requisition was made upon the State of Louisiana for a brigade of four regiments of infantry. The Washinffton Recriment was the first to offer its services, and was the first in the field. The Washington Artillery, acting as infantry, was Com- pany A of the regiment, and served with it, under Gen. Taylor, until all the volunteers on the Rio Grande line were, by orders of the Secretary of War, sent home and discharged. From that period the company, in face of all adverse circumstances, constantly maintained its organization in a state of efficiency and readiness for service, at the individual expense of the members. In 1852 another i-eoi-ganization took place, and Gen. E. L. Tracy was elected captain. He was succeeded by Soria, who lost his life by the premature discharge of a gun while the battery was firing a salute. After this sad event the company languished until but THE WASHINGTON ARTILLERY. 3 thirteen members answered to roll-call. But on the 19th of March, 1857, the command was offered to, and ac- cepted by, Col. J. B. Walton. From that date the command began to build up, and in 1860 a full company had been organized, splendidly uni- formed and equipped. It was perfectly drilled in infantry as well as artillery tactics, and was possessed of both rifles and cannon in its arsenal. For efficiency, drill, and discipline it was not surpassed by any organization of citizen soldiery in the Southern States. On the 6th of December, 1860, I was elected a private in the command. Early in January, 1861, the city of New Orleans was in a great state of excitement, and rumors were current that the State authorities intended to take steps hostile to the United States authorities, and orders were issued to the various militia organizations in the city to prepare for service. The Artillery received the following order : — Head-quarters First Brigade, First Division L.S.M., New Orleans, January 9, 1861. To Capt. Walton, Washington Artillery : — You -will repair immediately to the foot of Canal street, in conformity to orders from head-quarters, to receive the reports and assume com- mand of the following-named companies : — Washington Artillery, Louisiana Grays, Louisiana Guards, Chasseurs \ Pied, Saksfield Rifles, Orleans Cadets. Crescent Rifles. 4 THE WAS limaTON ARTILLERY. You will report the command when formed to the Adjutant-General for further orders. Strict order and discipline will be enforced by you, in accordance with the rules and regulations of war now in force in the army of the United States. By order of Brig. -Gen. E. L. Tracy, T. F. WALKER, Brigade Inspector. At a late hour in the evening of the 9th of January, 1861, the company assembled at the arsenal, completely equipped for service as infantry, and embarked on board the steamer "National," with the other city companies, and then it was made known that the purpose of the expedition was to seize the United States Arsenal at Baton Eouge. Upon arriving at that place ball cartridges for our mus- kets were issued, and it began to look serious. Some of the young soldiers, who had come on a frolic, commenced to look a little blue. After breakfast, on the 11th, we were all marched ashore, where we met some country com- panies, not uniformed, to whom the commanding officer of the barracks had refused to surrender his post. With a 12-pound musket on my shoulder and a heavy knapsack on my back I tramped around in the rear rank through the deep dust of the streets of the city. At last we were halted, stacked arms, and rested, and while doing so a few of us went out in the direction of the United States Arsenal, the acting adjutant, Lieut. H. M. Isaacson, accompanying us. On the way we met an ordnance sergeant of the U.S.A., who told us he was of our way of thinking, and intended to desert. By and by we marched THE WASHINGTON ARTILLERY. 5 to the arsenal, and, Major Haskins surrendering, we took possession in the name of the State of Louisiana. The casualties were few. Sergeant Buck Miller fell down a cellar when performing a "backward dress," and two privates, who were overcome by the excitement, were brought in under arrest. At night I was detailed for guard-duty, and my post was the gangway plank, where I paced my "two hours on and four off," all night. It began to rain, and I got wet, and when I lay down to rest during my "four hours off," using a coil of rope for a bed, with my legs hanging over one side, and head on the other, I felt cramped and miserable, but, with my then developing soldier spirit, I thought it was all right. My sergeant was my friend Eshleman, and we divided the coil of rope be- tween us. The expedition returned to New Orleans on the 12th of January. A few days after our return from Baton Rouge I was appointed by Major Walton, adjutant, with the rank of first lieutenant, in which position my duties were more con- fining and numerous, but pleasant. By the surrender of the arsenal at Baton Rouge the State came into possession of a large number of small arms and some old-fashioned cannon.^ 'New Okleans, April 27, 1S61. Major J. B. Walton, Commanding Battalion Washington Artillery: — SiK, — Having, in conformity to orders from you under date of 25th inst., visited Baton Rouge for the purpose of " ascertaining, through Capt. Booth, at the Ordnance Department, what there may be there subject to requisition which may he used to place our battery In complete order for active service," I beg leave to report as follows : — 6 THE WASHINGTON ARTILLERY. This was regarded as a proceeding of the gravest impor- tance, in view of the fact that it constituted the first serious act of hostility to Federal authority. The harsh voice of war, with all its attendant horrors, was even then heard resounding throughout the Southern States. The bombardment and fall of Sumter, and the universal rush to arms North and South had not then occurred. On the 22d of February the ladies of New Orleans pre- sented to the Artillery a magnificent stand of colors, and the presentation speech was delivered by the Hon. J. P. Benjamin, then the distinguished senator from Louisiana, Through the kind assistance of Capt. Booth and Mr. Lambert, military store- keeper, I discovered the foUowinjj-named arms, etc., subject to requisition of the militar}' commander of this district, viz. : — 350 Artillery sabres. 350 Artillery sabre-belts, and sword-knota. 220 Hall's patent carbines. 48 Colt's patent carbines. An abundance of old-fashioned pistols and holsters, altered from flint-locks. An abundance of Colt's army revolvers. A large quantity of fixed ammunition for 6-pounders. 200 fixed shells for 12-pounder howitzers. I found one batteiy-wagon that can be spared. Capt- Booth is now fitting up a battery of six 6-pounders, for which he will require the only forge and caissons he has on hand. He has no extra carriages or wheels. I found an abundance of the following articles, viz. : — Cannon locks, and percussion caps for same. Fuse gouges, hammers, shears, spikes, pouches, etc. There is no camp or garrison equipage of any description stored at this post. I regret I am unable to make a more satisfactory report. Capt. Booth in- formed me that the numerous requisitions made upon him within the last few weeks have almost stripped the arsenal. I noticed in the workshops a large number of hands employed in making rammers, fuses, port-fires, and filliuf shells for columbiads, moulding bullets, etc. I have the honor to be Very respectfully, your obedient servant, Wm. Miller Owen, First Lieutenant and Adjutant, B. W.A. THE WASHINGTON ARTILLERY. 7 and later the late eminent Queen's Counsel of London , who made the startling announcement that war was inevitable between the States, North and South, and told his au- dience to prepare for the great struggle, the end of which no one could foretell. On May 3, 1861, the command was increased, by the election of new members, to four full companies, fully equipped. Authority was given to their Major, J. B. Wal- ton, to offer their services to the Confederate States gov- ernment at Montgomery, Alabama, which was done in a communication of that date to the Hon. J. P. Benjamin. On the 13th May the following telegram was sent to Hon. L. Pope Walker, Secretary of War, by Major Walton : — The Battalion 'Washington Artillery under my command, numbering upon its rolls over three hundred men, two hundred and fifty for service, and divided into four companies, with a battery, complete in all respects, of six 6-pounder bronze guns, two 12-pounder howitzers, one 8-pounder rifle gun, is ready and desirous to take the field. The Battalion can take the field within a very few days after being notified and, provided with horses, camp, and garrison equipage, etc., for which, of course, I will be obliged to make requisition upon the Con- federate States. A delegation was sent — consisting of E. A. Palfrey, who had been elected captain of the second company, and private David Urquhart — to Montgomery to make the necessary arrangements for receiving the command directly into the service of the regular Confederate army. They were instructed to offer its services " for the war." 8 THE WASBINGTON ARTILLERY. On the same date Secretary of War Walker sent the following telegram : — Major J. B. Walton, — Tour Battalion of Artillery is accepted for the war. You are ordered to Lynchburg, Virginia. L. POPE WALKER, Secretary of War. Immediate preparations were made. Contributions were received from ladies and citizens generally, in great profusion. Large amounts of money were contributed by members and friends to fill the military chest to overflowing. Each member furnished his own uniform and equipment, of- ficers their own horses. The whole command was put upon a war footing without expense to the State or general government. In organization and equipment the Washington Artillery was not excelled by any command North or South, and the finest material in the State of Louisiana filled its ranks. On the 26th day of May, 1861, — a bright Sabbath morning, — the four batteries, in their showy uniforms, bearing aloft the silken colors, the gift of the ladies, marched and formed in double file in Lafayette square. They were then formally mustered into the service of the Confederate States by Lieut. Phifer, C.S.A. It was an impressive scene ; the square was densely packed with the friends and families of the young soldiers. After the ceremony of being mustered in was concluded, the com- mand was marched through the streets to Christ Church, which ancient and sacred edifice was filled to its utmost capacity by the immediate families and friends of the de- TEE WASRINOTON ARTILLERY. 9 parting soldiers, and by the Battalion. Their colors were distinguished by being placed against the chancel rail. The venerable Dr. Leacock, Rector of Christ Church, delivered a most eloquent address, v?hich impressed pro- foundly all who were present. Suppressed sobs of mothers, sisters, wives, and sweethearts were audible throughout the church. He enjoined all to remember that they were educated to be gentlemen, and it behooved them to bring back their characters as soldiers and gentlemen unblemished with their arms. He concluded by saying : " Our hearts will follow you, our ears will be open for tidings of your condition, and our prayers will ascend for your safety and return." After the discourse the colors were held aloft before the altar, and the benediction was pronounced, the entire assembly rising to their feet, roused to the highest pitch of hope, patriotism, and enthusiasm.^ ^ The following are the names of the officers and men who, on Sunday morn- ing, May 26, 1861, answered to Lieut. Phifer's roU-eall, and who thus became mustered into the Confederate service ; — Staff. — Major, J. B. Walton; Adjutant, Lieut. W. M.Owen; Surgeon, Dr. E. S. Drew; Quarter-master, Lieut. C. H. Slocomb. N'on-commisdoned Staff. — Sergt.-Major, C. L. C. Dupuy ; Quarter-master Sergeant, Stringer Kennedy ; Color-Sergeant, Louis M. Montgomery. Color Guard. — Corporals, George W. Wood, E. L. Jewell, A. H. Peale, J. H. Dearie. Buglers. — E. de P. Villasana, Jo. Ejngslow. Boll of First Company. — Captain, H. M. Isaacson; First Lieutenant, C. W. Squires; First Lieutenant, J. B. Kichardson; Second Lieutenant, H. G. Geiger; First Sergeant, Edward Owen; Second Sergeant, 3. M. Galbraith; Third Sergeant, C. H. C. Brown, Jr.; First Corporal, F. D. Euggles; Second Corporal, E. C. Payne ; Third Corporal, W. Fellows ; Fourth Corporal, F. F. Case. Privates. — Thomas S. Turner, G. M. Judd, E. I. Kursheedt, J. W. Kearney, C. Eossiter, W. Chambers, W. F. Perry, J. E. Rddd, M. E. Jarreau, J. A. Tarlton, T. Y. Aby, C. Chambers, G. W.Muse, L. Labarre, M. Mount, P. A. J. Michel, J. M. Payne, K. McK. Spearing, A. F. Coste, J. E. McGaughy, E. A. 10 THE WASHINGTON ARTILLERY. At an early hour on the 27th of May, 1861, the crowds of citizens assembling upon the streets gave token of excitement in the public mind. From every tongue came the remark, " The "Washington Artillery is going to the war." Then men in the familiar uniform of the corps could be seen flitting about, completing preparations for the journey. At the arsenal all was commotion, — wagons being loaded, knapsacks packed, and blankets rolled. The Cowen, F. A. St. Amaiid, W. T. Harclie, H. Chambers, E. T. Wiltz, J. P. Manieo, L. E. Zebal, H. L. Zebal, W. R. Falconer, G. B. DeEussy, F. Lo- brano, C. A. Everett. Artificers. — S. G. Stewart, W. D. Holmes, Israel Scott. Drivers. — George Bernard, Sergeant; Michael Hock, Charles Rush, Jno. E. Scheman, jno. O'Ncil, W. K. Dirke, John Wilson, Pat. Mooney, H. Meyer, Jno. Jacobs, Thos. Kerwin, David Nolan, Wm. Forrest, J. L. Hoch, Fred. Lester, B. Nicholas, Jno. Charlesworth, Jno. Anderson, Matthew Burns, Jas. Heflogh. Roll of Second Company. — First Lieutenant, C. C. Lewis, commanding; First Lieutenant, Samuel J. McPherson ; Second Lieutenant, C. H. Slocomb ; First Sergeant, J. IL DeGrange ; Second S.ergeant, Gustave Aime ; Third Ser- geant, H. C. Wood ; Fourth Sergeant, C. Huchez ; First Corporal, J. D. Ed- wards ; Second Corporal, C. E. Leverich ; Third Corporal, Jules Freret ; Fourth Coi-poral, B. V. L. Hutton. Privates.— 11. N. Payne, J. S. Meyers, Tracey Twichell, T. J. Land, J. W. Emniett, J. A. Hall, G. Humphrey, W. C. Giffen, J. C. Woodville, A. A. Brins- made, E. L. Hall, R. Axson, Wm. Roth, E. D. Patton, A. G. Knight, J. D. Britton, W. A. Randolph, W. F. Florence, J. W. Parsons, J. Howard Goodin, Thomas H. Sutcr, F. Alewelt, F. P. Buckner, G. E. Strawbridge , A. R. Blakely, E. Bannister, Jr., R. C. Lewis, H. B. Berthelot, W. J. Hare, J. H. Randolph, W. H. AVilldns, Samuel Hawes. Artificers. — .John Montgomery, Leonard Craig. Drivers.— John Weber, Toney Hulby, John Fagan, George Barr, Wm. Carey, B. B. F. McKesson, William Little, James Crilly, John Cannon, Jas. Leyden, Ed. Loftus, Edwin Lake, James Brown, W. F. Lynch, Louis Roach, William Oliver, Corn'l McGregor, Alex. Buchor. Roll of Third Company.— Captain, M. B. Miller; First Lieutenant, J. B. Whittington ; Second Lieutenant, L. A. Adam ; First Sergeant, Frank McElroy ; Second Sergeant, A. Hero, Jr. ; Third Sergeant, L. Prados ; Fourth Sergeant, J. T. Handy ; First Corporal, E. L. Jewell ; Second Corporal, A. H. Peale ; Third Corporal, W. H. Ellis ; Fourth Corporal, W. A. Collins. . Privates. —Napier Bartlett, H. D. Summers, J. H. Moore, W. Mills, Robert Bruce, John Holmes, T. II. Fuqua, O. N. DcBlanc, E. W. Morgan, P. W. Pettis, E. Riviere, F. Kremelberg, Chas. Hart, Samuel C. Boush, George THE WASHINGTON- ARTILLERY. 11 day was fearfully hot, the thermometer ranging over 90°. The march to the railroad station, escorted by all the city troops, was a perfect ovation. All places of business on Canal street were closed, and ladies filled the galleries, waving their handkerchiefs. At the City Hall the Rev. Mr. Palmer delivered an address, and wished the Battalion " God speed." After what was to the young soldiers, under the intense heat, a fearful march, the station was reached, but not, how- ever, without the loss of two privates, — Lane and Carl, — McNeil, J. H. Collis, Frank Sliaw, Jr., E. Toledano, W. S. Toledano, P. O. Fazende, Fi-ed. L. Hubbard, Jos. II. DeMeza, L. E. Guyot, J. F. Randolph, S. Chalaron, J. T. Brenford, C. W. Deacon, Stringer Kennedy, Howard Tully, Wm. Leefe, I. W. Brewer, C. H. Stacker, J. R. Porter, S. G. Sanders, B. L. Braselman, R. P. Many, F. A. Carl, C. E. Forticr, R. Maxwell, E. Avril, E. Charpiaux, T. M. McFall, M. W. Cloney, Ed. Duncan, C. A. Falconer, li. J. Phelps, T. Ballantine, E. W. Noyes, M. W. Chapman, W. P. Noble, W. G. Coyle, L. P. Forshee, George H. Meek, J. C. Bloomfield, A. B. Martin, R. Turnell. Artificers. — Jos. Blanchard, Jas. Keating. Roll of Fourth Company. — Captain, B. F. Eshleman ; First Lieutenant, Jos. Norcom ; Second Lieutenant, Harry A. Battles ; Second Sergeant, W. J. Behan ; Third Sergeant, G. E. Apps; Fourth Sergeant, J. D. Reynolds; First Corporal, Geo. "Wood; Second Corporal, J. W. Dearie. Privates. — A. D. Augustus, B. F. Widler, J. R. McGowan, J. M. Rohbock, H. F. Wilson, C. C. Bier, J. C. Wood, Jno. S. Fish, F. A. Brodie, E. Lauer, G. Beck, R. F. F. Moore, H. H. Baker, J. \V. Burke, Jno. Meux, J. B. Valentine, Phil. Von Coin, T. B. "White, Bernard Hufft, G. L. Crutcher, J. F. Lilly, T. J. Stewart, Samuel A. Knox, "Wm. Palfrey, L. C. Lewis, J. H. Smith, G. Mont- gomery, Isaac Jessup, A. F. Vass, W. "W. Jones, P. C. Lane, T. Carey, W. P. S. Crecy, W. C. MoiTell, W. T. O'Neill, A. Banksmith, Frank WilUams, H. N. "White, Jno. B. Cbastant, W. Snead, H. D. Seaman,"Eugene M. Bee, C. \V. Marston, C. A. Deval, E. A. Mellard, J. W. Wilcox, V. D. Terrebonne, E. F. Eeichart, Thos. H. Cummings, R. H. Gray, S. T. Hale, J. "W. Lesene, Chas. Hardenburg, J. C. Purdy, E. Jaubert. Artificers. — Levy CaUahan, .Jno. McDonnell. Band. — J. V. Gessner, Leader; T. Gutzler, Ch. "W. Struve, J. Arnold, Jno. Deutsch, Jno. Geches, Peter Trum, Jno. Loi-bs, Thos. Kostmel, J. H. Sporer, Charles Meir.l 1 The Battalion, when in Virginia, was eeveial times recruited to fill the places of the killed, wounded, and disabled, who averaged about one huudxed to each company. 12 THE WASHINGTON ARTILLERY. both sunstruck. En route, my old friend, Mr. John Connelly, threw around my neck a little amulet, saying : " Wear that, my boy, and your life will be sayed." It was of the class of medals that were blessed by the Pope and sent to the French soldiers in the Crimean war. The train moved out of the station amidst the firing of artillery and the strains of brass bands. The boys cheered, the engine whistled an adieu, and the Battalion Wash- ington Artillery was off " for the war." On June 2 the Battalion reached Lynchburg, Virginia, after an uneventful trip. There we found preparations on a grand scale for our reception. A large building had previously been engaged for our use, and a capital lunch served. In fact, at almost every stopping-place along the route reception committees waited upon us, and a free lunch was extended. The Battalion paraded the principal streets of Lynchburg in the afternoon, just " to take the wrinkles out," as was said, and, as we were to remain there until the followino- morning, the citizens carried off the boys for the night to their hospitable homes. The Colonel, importuned by so many to go and spend the night, and unwilling to show a preference, concluded to go to the hotel, whither he went, with the adjutant and the chief bugler. The command was dismissed, with orders to report in the morning at reveille. At daybreak, June 3, the bugles rang out the re- veille at all the corners of the streets, and effectually awakened the whole town, and soon the boys, singly and in TBE WASHINGTON ARTILLERY. . 13 squads, were seen rushing to roll-call, like college students a little late at chapel. The companies were formed briskly at the rendezvous agreed upon, and, to the credit of the discipline of the command be it said, not a single man failed to answer "Here" at the call of his name. The boys were then allowed to breakfast with their hos- pitable hosts, with orders to report at 10 A.M. at the station for departure. At that hour an immense crowd assembled to see them off, and with the band playing " Dixie ' we mpved out of the station en route for Richmond, followed by the enthusiastic cheers and waving of handkerchiefs of the throng. Many a heart was left behind with the fair maidens of dear old Lynchburg. During our whole trip from New Orleans to Richmond we had a special train, — passenger cars for officers and men, box cars for private horses, and open platform cars for our cannon, — twenty-one cars in all. When passing through East Tennessee, Brownlow's country, we expe- rienced some delay at Morristown by the desertion of an engineer, who was too " loyal " to pull us through ; and another, truly "loyal," abstracted Capt. Eshleman's trunk from one of the open cars, much to the disgust of its owner. This was the first practical application of the term " heavy baggage to the rear." Just before daybreak, on the 4th of June, we arrived at Richmond, and noticed with some interest the sentinels on post about the large warehouses near the station, con- 14 THE WASHINGTON- ARTILLERY. taining, we supposed, quarter-master's stores. This began to look like business. At 8 A.M. the command fell in for breakfast, and, -with the band playing, marched, without sabres, to the Ex- chano-e Hotel. This concluded, and the score settled, amounting to two hundred and fifty dollars in " gold coin of the realm " from our military chest, we were oi'dered to prepare to march to the location selected for our camp. About noon we were marched to Union Hill, a bald spot, — not a tree or a shrub upon it. There tents were furnished us, and by dark our canvas city was pitched, and by common consent dubbed " Camp Beauregard." As ordered, we reported our presence to Gen. R. E. Lee, commanding the Virginia forces. Here we expected to remain for some time, to be supplied with horses and harness, and some changes to be made in our armament, and numerous things to be done needful for service in the field. Our camp was thronged daily at dress-parade with the elite of Richmond, — scores of ladies in their carriages being always present. President Davis frequently rode through- the camp. One day he rode up to the sentinel on the flank of the camjj, and as he was passing through he was halted by the man on post (Von Coin) . " Don't you know the President?" asked Gen. Wigfall, who accompanied him. "No," said Von, " I know no one. I only know my or- ders. Go round by the guard tent : you can't pass here." The President, who was an old soldier, was rather pleased at this display of discipline in the command. Of course, our Colonel, being a fine-looking soldier, and THE WASHINGTON ARTILLERY. 15 commanding such a splendid contribution of the best of 'young Louisianians to the Virginia army, was feasted and fited ; and the adjutant shared the hospitalities extended to his chief, and sipped 1798 Madeira at the hospitable board of Mr. Macf d, breakfasted with the charming Mrs. S d, and supped with ponderous statesmen and briga- diers, who had yet to win their spurs. -^ On June 24 the first and second companies, having completed their equipment, were ordered off to Manassas, with orders to report to Gen. Beauregard. Head- quarters accompanied this detachment, and the third and fourth companies were left under command of the senior officer, Capt. H. M. Isaacson,' to complete equipping and to follow after. On the 25th of June the two batteries reported to Gen. Beaureguard at Manassas, and by his orders pitched their tents on the banks of Bull Kun, at Mitchell's ford. Here a beautiful camp was laid out, — plenty of 1 The Richmond (Ta.) " Dispatch " of the 20th of Jane, 1861, says : — " On Tuesday evening the commissioaed and non-commissioned staff of the Battalion Washington Artillery, with Major Walton, came from camp to this citj-, accompanied with their excellent brass baud of twelve pieces, and sere- naded President Davis at the Spottswood House. After discoursing several appropriate airs to the admiration of a large audience, Major Walton and staff were invited to the reception-room of the President, where Mrs. Davis did the hospitable attentions, aided by a large number of ladies, in her wonted generous style. An hour was agreeably passed, both Mr. and Mrs. Davis paying the Battalion high compliments. The Battalion band also serenaded some of our distinguished citizens, and after three or four hottrs of festive entertainment, the staff returned to 'Camp Beauregard' toward the 'sma' wee hours.' " This Battalion is now being supplied with an additional battery by the Con- federate government, composed of 6-pounders, 12-ponnd howitzers, and rifled- cannon, and are now in a very superior state of artillery di ill, ready for action. In the course of si-t or eight days they will gel marching orders for the seat of war." 16 THE WASEI\GTON ARTILLERY. fresh o-reen orass and shade trees, and fine bathing in the clear mountain stream. This was called " Camp Louisiana." Before leaving Richmond there had been assigned to the Battalion, Lieuts. T. L. Eosser, James Bearing, and J. J. Garnett. These young officers had been at ^Yest Point Academy when hostilities broke out, resigned, and came home to Virginia before graduating. They were assigned to the artillery as instructors and for general service, and assisted very materially in battery drills upon the ^Manassas plains. In due time the glorious Foiu-th of July came, and was duly celebrated, as of yore. Information was received that it would not be long before we should smell " villanous saltpetre." The enemy was reported very active between Fairfax Court-House — our outpost — and Washington. The two companies which were left behind at Richmond joined us on tlie 8th, and the family was again united.^ "\Ye were drilling ' MoRxiNG Reports Batt-u-ion 'V 'ASHIXGTON J Vrtiu. ERY. July 13, 1S61. O ;=: 5 o *« c > a 1 j^" ^ '^ Ph H < < < Field and Staff i 4 8 . . . . s Fii-st Company 4 8 6S 70 1 . , 71 Second Company 3 7 59 69 . . 69 Thii-d Company 4 8 50 62 1 63 Foni'th Company 4 S 61 63 63 19 35 218 272 1 1 274 THE WASHINGTON ARTILLERY. 17 constantly, and had perfected ourselves in light-artillery manoeuvres, having been provided with excellent horses and equipment. The first section of the first company had been off on an expedition to Occoquan creek, and the boys were in hopes of paying a few compliments to the enemy, but were disappointed. The following is a list of the detachments that afterwards made themselves famous : — Rifle Piece. Lieut. Squires commanding. First Sergeant Edward Owen.^ First Corporal F. D. Euggles.^ Private G. M. Judd.i W. F. Perry.i " C. Eossiter.i " E. I. Kursheedt.i T. S. Turner.i " J. AVatts Kearney. " W. Chambers.! " John E. Eodd.^ - 12-pd. Howitzer. Lieut. Slocomb ^ commanding. Sergeant J. M. Galbraith.^ Corporal J. N. Payne.' Private J. R. McGaughy. " W. L. Norment. ' Killed or wounded in battle. 18 TEE WASHINGTON ARTILLERY. Private R. McK. Spearing.^ W. T. Hardie.i A. F. Coste.i E. Riviere. P. O. Fazende.' H. Chambers.^ And now a vrord about the personnel of our field and staff. Imprimis, our Colonel, and for a description of him I quote from a special correspondent, vrho has written (after enumerating all the officers of the command) : "These are all men. of marked character, and gentlemen in every sense of the word. Col. Walton is a man -of powerful frame, straight and soldierly, and looks very much like the portraits of Napoleon III. He has a heavy mustache and barhe d'Afrique, now tinged with gray. His dress, like all the officers of this corps, is always neat and becoming, giving the wearer an appearance of elegance seldom seen among army officers in the field." Second Lieut. C. H. Slocomb, Second company, acting quarter-master, was a young man of twenty-eight years, and an efficient officer. By his personal magnetism he endeared himself to the whole command. Dr. E. S. Drew, surgeon, or, as he was called by the boys, "Drugs," was an experienced " sawbones," and was looking forward to the time when his beautiful case of instruments would come into requisition. Sergeant-Major C. L. C. Dupuy was a most careful, con- scientious, and methodical officer. Pie kept his roster care- ' Killed or wounded ia battle. THE WASHINGTON ARTILLERY. 19 fully preserved in folds of cotton cloth, as voluminous as the wrappings of an Egyptian mummy, and after the unrolling process was completed he could inform the adjutant just how many men or fractions of men could be drawn for daily guard-detail. The irreverent ones dubbed him " Sergeant Detail." He was not only a walking encyclo- paedia, but had compiled a perpetual calendar, and, if one had any desire to know on what day of the week the Fourth of July would fall one hundred years hence, he could furnish the information in a style " equalled by few and excelled by none." Ordnance-Officer B. L. Brazelman was also a conscien- tious and faithful adjunct to the staff, always busy about the guns, overhauling the ammunition chests, replacing implements, careful as to fuses and primers. No gunner lacked any essential for instant action. Color-Sergeant L. M. Montgomery, or " Bliffkins," as the boys called him, was a decided character. Why he was called "Bliffkins," or "Bliff" for short, no one knows. "Bliff" was a Bohemian, in New Orleans, connected with the press. In full-dress uniform he was immense ; and to see him with his red kepi cocked upon three hairs, with his Dundreary whiskers, one would be apt to mistake him for a major-general at least. " Bliff" had a charger assigned him by the Colonel, and when he was off duty, which was about three hundred and sixty-four days out of the year, he was allowed to roam over the country, and would return with long yarns of what he had seen and heard. We could believe as much as we chose of it all ; but, from all accounts, the commander-in-chief had no grave secrets "he did not 20 THE WASHINGTON ARTILLERY. impart to "BlifF." Everybody knew him, and he was al- ways welcome. He was our perambulating news-reporter. During a battle he was all in all to us, for he would bring the news from the right and from the left, how this or that command had gone in, who had been hurt, how things were g-oincc, and the like. Late in the war " BlifF" was commissioned in the adjutant-general's department, and whUe on his way to the trans-Mississippi was intercepted by gun-boats ; so he reported to Gen. Pemberton, at Vicksburg, and was the only ofBcer with that general when the famous interview was held with Gen. Grant to ar- range the terms for the surrender of the city. And now for our immediate minage at the Colonel's tent. First, John Bahr, a plethoric, full-breasted, and bow- windowed native of Germany, who, filled with patriotic ardor, volunteered with the command as hospital stew- ard. The Colonel appointed him his major-domo. John looked after the "flesh-pots," so to speak, and would ride miles and miles for provender for the mess ; but woe unto him, if, when returning from a raid, laden with chick- ens, eggs, butter, and buttermilk, he passed near the drill-grounds of the batteries. As soon as he was descried an immediate cessation of drill was ordered, and the mounted officers would charge down upon him and make the lightning flash before his eyes with their sabres, and demand " toll," which they generally got by a fair divide ; and he was paroled with the injunction, that, if he told the Colonel, they would chop him up into sausage-meat ; but stolid John would only say, " All recht ; vait dil dot pay- master konls. I get you even on der leetle game of boker." THE WASHINGTON ARTILLERY. 21 "Mistress John," his /mw, whom Slocomb had uni- formed as a vivandiere before leaving home, accompa- nied us, and bore the fatigue of the campaigns as well as any. She made herself indispensable in many ways. The little woman was a heroine in her way, as true as steel ; and many a sick or wounded fellow has felt her motherly hand as she bathed his hurts or made for him a good broth or a cup of Creole coffee. The boys, always ready for sobriquets, dubbed the worthy couple, more from alGPection than from any disrespect, the " he-bear and the she-bear ; " and so they were known for the term of the war. But the all-important personage was our French cook, Edouard, from Victor's restaurant, in New Orleans. Ah ! he was magnifique. A Frenchman of great resources, his dishes were superb, and the objects of admiration of all visitors who did not enjoy the luxury of French cuisine in their own camps. But Edouard soon tired of camp-life, and after a whUe, when, with the curtailed transportation, his utensils used to be pitched into the ditches by the road- side, his reputation was at stake, and he finally returned to his dear New Orleans, with his sole companion, his pet fox. Frangois, a splendid specimen of a Creole darky, speak- ing better French than English, succeeded. It was said he had a lady-love in every section of the Old Virginia State we travelled over. A French darky was a curi- osity. The negro cooks in the Battalion were an institution unto themselves. When the command left New Orleans 22 THE WASEINOTON ARTILLERY. for Virginia every mess had its two or three servants, or "boys," as they were universally called. These "boys" would take charge of the mess, and, in very many cases, were the slaves of the officers and men. They were ex- pected to black the shoes, forage for provisions at times, rub down private horses, etc. Many were accomplished body-servants, good barbers, and the like. Quite a number served faithfully until the end of the war ; some deserted to the enemy when it was bruited amongst them that the war had set them free, and appeared in the Northern papers as "intelligent contrabands." Of the latter were Jim Ingraham and Dick Kenner, who served the fourth company officers' mess. They both, in reconstruction times, became prominent politicians, and served in the legislature of Louisiana, but always leaned kindly towards the interests of their old masters. In the field and in the trenches the " boys " would prepare the meals for the officers and men at the front, and carry them to them dur- ing quiet times ; but let the guns open, and they would make tracks to the rear in a hurry. They were not without humor, as, for instance, old Frangois, the Colonel's French servant, who, upon one occasion, while unloading the head-quarters wagon, drew forth a small stove, of which one leg of the four was miss- ing. The Colonel, very wroth, demanded to know where the missing leg had gone. Frangois, with a grimace and shrug of the shoulders peculiar to his class, said: "Mus- choo Col-o-nel, I do not know, but I dink it must be lost on de battlefield." At the first battle of Manassas the enemy fired some TEE WASEINOTON ARTILLERY. 23 very large shells, that made a peculiar humming noise ; they were dubbed " bird-cage shot." The darkies declared they said in their flight, " Whar is yer ? Whar is yer ? " and would take to their heels to hide from them. The flight or passage of a minie bullet was translated into " Zip ! I've got yer ! " But let justice be done these faithful servants, for surely many were devoted and faithful to the bitter end of the war, in camp and in the far-away homes of wives and children of the men who were in the armies ; and then, too, their class is extinct : they are now politicians and office- holders. 24 THE WASHINGTON ARTILLERY. CHAPTER II. ADDRESS TO THE ARMY. Enemy on the March. — Camp Broken Up. — McLean's Ford. — Union Mills. — Rebel Girl. — Engagement at Blackburn's Eord, July 21. — Our Armament. — Battle of Manassas. — Bee, Bartow, Hampton, and Bob Wheat. — "Stonewall Jackson." — Hard Tack and Sherry. — Beauregard and Johnston. — Griffin's and Eickett's Batteries. — Defeat of the Enemy. — President Davis. — Appear- ance of a Battlefield. — Official Reports. JULY 17tli, 1861. — The enemy is on the move. We can hear his guns at Fairfax Court-House. Our ad- vanced forces all falling back steadily to cross to the south side of Bull Run. We will watch and hold the fords. Camp broken up, and tents and baggage sent to Ma- nassas, under charge of tlie quarter-master. Until this business is concluded we will rough it in the open air. The morning report of the Battalion shows two hundred and eighty-four officers and men for duty, and an armament of thirteen field-pieces, say : — Six smooth brass 6-pounders. Four 12-pounder howitzers. Three 6-pounder rifles. The whole command was marched to McLean's ford, and bivouacked for the night under the shelter of the pine thickets. Our first night out. Some wounded men from the outpost TSE WASHINGTON ARTILLERY. 25 passed by this afternoon, one fellow with his ear shot com- pletely off, — a close scratch. On the 18th we were up and stirring at the peep of dawn, and, after a hasty breakfast of fried bacon and crackers, mount, and with the four howitzers, under Lieut. Eosser, moved in the direction of Union Mills ford, fur- ther down the E,un, where it is crossed by a railroad bridge. The other guns of the command were left at Blackburn's and McLean's fords, under Lieut. Squires and Capt. Miller. Union Mills ford was the extreme right of our line, which extended for eight miles up the stream to the stone bridge at the Warrenton turnpike, where our left rested. From our elevated position at the Mills we could see the enemy's Zouaves coming out of the patch of woods opposite, drawing water from the tank beside the railroad. They were evidently there in force, and Rosser wants to shell them out ; but Gen. Ewell said, "Wait awhile." While lounging under the trees we were surprised to see riding towards us a little lady, with the rebel colors pinned upon her dress. We sprang to our feet, and, with our kepis doffed, greeted her. What a strange sight ! — so young and gentle a girl here, among a thousand soldiers and frowning cannon awaiting battle. To our inquiries where she was from, and how she came, she replied, " Oh, I'm from Fairfax Court-House. I came around the Yankees, and have information fof your com- mander ; who is he?" We told her Gen. Ewell was in command, and, at her request, escorted her to his head-quarters. What news she brought we never knew; 26 THE WASHINGTON ARTILLERY. but we all thought she was a brave little woman any- how. About noon, away on the left, we heard the boom of a big gun, and then another ; soon the rattle of a volley of musketry, and, as the sounds increased in volume, we knew the enemy was attacking one of the fords, but which one we could not tell. At any rate, some of our boys were engaged, we knew. The bugle sounded the assembly, and the cannoneers took their posts at the guns, ready for action if the Zouaves opposite proved troublesome ; but they made no move. The heavy firing on the left kept us on the anxious seat until it ceased, about 4 o'clock P.M., when "Bliffkins," "whip and spur," was seen coming towards us up the road, his horse covered with foam. A general rush was made for him, and an avalanche of questions hurled at him : " What's the news, ' Bliff,' old boy ? Give us the news ! " " Any of our fellows been in ? " " Anybody hurt ? " " Have we licked 'em? " Poor "BliiF," all out of breath, tried to speak, but could only get out : " All right — Blackburn's ford — Been in — Whipped enemy's artillery — George Muse killed — Eshleman, Zebal, Tarleton, Tully, Harry Baker wounded — Eest all right — Gim'me a drink, some- body ! " This was good news indeed, and we danced and shouted ourselves hoarse over it. We bivoiiacked that night at the Mills, and the boys, around the camp-fires, discussed the chances of "getting a show " on the morrow. The Colonel and I slept in a cabin, in which were also quartered Col. Siebal and his ad- THE WASHINGTON ARTILLERY. 27 jutant, Lieut. John B. Gordon^ of the Sixth Alabama, and Col. Seymour of the Sixth Louisiana. On July 19th I visited the battlefield at Blackburn's ford, and that portion of the command that had been engaged, saw Lieut. Squires, who had been the senior officer in command of the guns, and he reported as follows : — " Early yesterday morning the three rifle pieces of artillery under my command were ordered to move in the direction of Blackburn's ford, with Col. Early's brigade. Upon arriving at McLean's farm-house we were joined by two more guns of our Battalion, under Lieuts. J. B. Whit- tington and L. A. Adam, and were ordered to act together as one battery. The enemy very shortly opened fire upon a barn of McLean's that was occupied by the medical de- partment as a hospital. Musketry fire soon opened along the banks of Bull Run, and our infantry became engaged with the enemy. A section of our battery was soon ordered to follow the Seventh Louisiana regiment, which was mov- ing into position, and two of the rifle guns, under command of Lieut. J. B. Richardson, assisted by Capt. Eshle- man, did so. One rifle and two G-pounders remained with Col. Kemper's Seventh Virginia regiment. Lieut. Garnett then came/ up with two more of our guns (6- pounders), that had been attached to Gen. Longstreet's command. Pre3«intly the rifles under Richardson opened fire, — thelSfsf shots fired at the enemy by the Washington 1 Lieut. Gordon afterwards went through the grades of major, colonel, brigadier, major, and lieutenant-general, and was wounded a number of times. His wife accompanied him in his marches, riding by his side on horseback. He has, since the war, served as U.S. Senator fi-om Georgia. 28 TEE WASEINGTOU ARTILLERY. Artillery. These rifles were soon joined by the five other guns, — making seven in aU, — and at it we went. We had a lively time of it ; but the boys behaved splendidly. Richardson, Garnett, and Whittington deserve special men- tion for coolness. The former had his horse shot under him. Sergts. Edward Owen, John Galbraith, and Ike Brewer, together with Corporals Ruggles, Fellowes, Payne, and Ellis, and, in short, all the cannoneers and drivers, deserve thanks for coolness and perfect obedience to orders." "Sergts. Edward Owen and Galbraith I shall recom-- mend highly for promotion. They behaved most gallantly throughout the whole of the engagement, reporting at every moment the difierent positions of their guns, the ammunition they were using, and every little detail con- nected therewith." " The enemy's shells bursting in the midst of the guns killed George Muse, and wounded, Avhile doing their whole duty, Capt. Eshleman and privates H. L. Zebal and J. A. Tarleton of first company, and H. Tully of the third company, and H. H. Baker of fourth company. We fired away three hundred and ten rounds in the engao-e- ment, and lost six horses, killed and wounded." I had the pleasure of congratulating upon their " fiery baptism" Watts Kearney, Eossiter, McGaughy, Hardie, L. E. Zebal, and others. They had all donned the high black army-hats of the enemy, found on the field, and were about as fierce a looking set of brigands in appear- ance as one could wish to see. They were all in hio-h THE WASHINGTON ARTILLERY. 29 spirits and chock-full of confidence in themselves and their capacity to whip anything and anybody. On my way back to Union Mills I met Gen. Beau- regard, who said to me, " Tell Col. Walton I want to see him, to tell him how like veterans his boys behaved." I felt quite mortified that I had been so unfortunate as not to have been in the engagement myself. On the night of the 18th, the company of American Rifles, under Capt. W. D. Rickarby and Lieut. Sam Flower, 7th Louisiana regiment, crossed Bull Run and hastened the falling back of the enemy by a sharp and unexpected fusilade upon his flank. In Gen. Beauregard's official report of the engagement of the 18th July, he says : — " Our artillery was manned and officered by those who, but yesterday, were called from the civil avocations of a busy city." "They were matched with the picked artillery of the Federal regular army, — Company E, Third Artillery, under Capt. Ayres, with an armament, as their own chief of artillery admits, of two 10-pounder rifle Parrott guns, two 12-pounder howitzers, and two 6-pounder pieces, aided by two 20-pounder P0,rrott rifle-guns of Company G, Fifth Artillery, under Lieut. Benjamin." "Thus matched, they drove their veteran adversaries from the field, giving confidence in and promise of the coming efficiency of this brilliant arm of our service." "The skill, the conduct, and the soldierly qualities of 30 TSE WASSmOTON ARTILLERY. the Washington Artillery engaged were all that could be desired." " The officers and men attached to the seven pieces al- ready specified won for their Battalion a distinction which, I feel assured, will never be tarnished, and which will ever serve to urge them and their corps to high endeavor." After sundown I accompanied Col. Walton to the head- quarters of Gen. Beauregard, at McLean's farm-house. While there quite a number of general officers rode up and dismounted. There were Longstreet, Ewell, Bonham, Early, D. li. Jones, and Kershaw. As they sat under the trees it was a subject for a painter, — their grave faces plainly showing the seriousness of the occasion. A battle had. been fought, but a greater was to follow to-morrow, or the next day. The delibera- tions were carried on in a low tone, and we youngsters and staff officers smoked our pijDes as we lay upon the grass at a respectful distance. All was so calm and still that it was difficult to realize the fact that within a radius of probably ten miles many thousands of soldiers were encamped awaiting the dreadful work before them. And the homes of these men far away ! Alas, how many were house^g of mourning before three suns had set ! At last, when each commanding officer had received his definite instructions as to the part he was to play in the approaching drama, they arose to go. Beauregard then said to them, in a tone loud enough for us to hear, "Now, gentlemen, let to-morrow be their Waterloo." THM WASHINGTON ARTILLERY. 31 We all sought our diflFerent bivouacs, and in an uneasy ^ sleep I dreamed of the story I had once heard of the old guide upon the field of Waterloo, who, in describing the battle, said, "About this period of the action a most tremenjos shower-r-r-r of musket-balls was heard, and the Duke of Wellington was heard to exclaim, ' Up, black- guards, and at 'em ! ' " A little incident occurred at the close of the fight on the 18th that the boys tell with gusto. They were right well used up, working the guns this hot July day, when Sergt. Dearie happened to espy, at the foot of the only tree on the plain, a demijohn. It was quickly seized, and upon examination proved to be, as it was labelled, spir- itus frumenti, which was translated into " throat wash." There was an immediate rush for the tin cups that had enclosed the cartridges, and which lay in profusion all around the spot where the guns had been worked, and each tired cannoneer took a hearty pull with a feeling of pro- found thankfulness for the unknown giver of such a wel- come stimulant. It turned out afterwards that the demijohn had been sent from the hospital to Col. Moore, of the First Vir- ginia regiment, by its surgeon, Dr. CuUen. The negro servant, in whose care it was placed, was " stung by a bung," and, dropping the demijohn under the tree, where he had taken refuge, decamped, and without ceremony "extended his rear." We had a laugh at the expense of the colonel and the surgeon of the First Virginia when, in after army life, we knew them better. 32 THE WASHINOTON ARTILLERY. The total casualties of all our forces engaged on the 18th were as follows : — Killed . . . .15 Wounded . . . .53 Of the enemy we buried about 64, found a few wounded, and took 20 prisoners, 175 stands of arms, a large number of accoutrements and blankets, and quite 150 hats.i i"His (Longstreet's) battery was the ' Washington Artillery' of New Or- leans, and it fired superbly. " After four years* fij^hting, in half a hundred battles, it attained no greater skill than it displayed in this its first action." — Extract from J. Esten Cookers, novels '■^ Hammer and Rapier " Nicolay, in his " Outbreak of the Eebellion," says of this same affair : — " About noon, on the 18th, they (Tyler's division) were within a mile of Black- burn's ford. Then followed the ever-recurring experience in such affairs. First, an experimental cannonade from a couple of field-pieces, before which the enemy's guns retired. Next, the advance of a skirmish line, before which the enemy's skirmishers retired. Then, the advance of some of the field-pieces and the planting of a stronger battery, the posting of a regiment to support the skir- mishers, and soon after the posting of the entire brigade to support the regi- ment, followed by calliug up a reserve brigade to support the first. " Thus the afternoon's work drifted quicldy from a reconnoissance to a skirmish, and from a skirmish to a preliminary battle. It was not until sixty men bad fallen, until the two exposed field-pieces were with difficulty extricated, until one regi- ment (Twelfth New York) had retreated in confusion and the other three were deployed in line of battle to make a new charge, that Tyler heeded his instruc- tions, and withdrew his reluctant officers and men from the fight, partly demor- alized and generally exasperated, and returned to CentreviUe." Swinton, in his "Army of the Potomac," says: "From CentreviUe Gen. McDowell proceeded to push out reconnoissances with a view to a projected movement by his left, but examination soon proved the impracticability of the ground for the purpose. ^ " Moreover, the character of Gen. McDowell's move was revealed to Beaure- gard by an aifair which the silly ambition of a division commander brought on that afternoon at Blackburn's ford on Bull Run. " Gen. Tyler had been ordered to occupy CentreviUe with his division, and thence observe the roads to Bull Run, but was cautioned not to brin"- on an engagement. In obedience to this he pushed a brigade forward to Blackburn's ford, which proved to be about the centre of Beauregard's true defensive line along Bull Run. " Reaching the heights on the north side of the stream, he opened an artilleiy THE WASHINGTON ARTILLERY. 33 On the 20th of July Gen. Jo Johnston arrived at Manassas from the " Valley," with the brigades of Gens. T. J. Jackson and Bee, the advance of his army. These troops were posted near Bull Eun, at Mitchell's and Black- burn's fords. On the 21st of July we were up and stirring at daylight, and rode over to Beauregard's head-quarters. The enemy, throwing an occasional shell over us from a big gun on the high ground between Blackburn's ford and Centreville, were evidently feeling for our lines. To-day the guns of our battalion were assigned for duty as follows : — Four 12-pounder howitzers, under Lieut. T. L. Eosser, commanding; Lieuts. C. C. Lewis, C. H. Slocomb, and H. A. Battles, with Gen. Ewell, at Union Mills ford. Two 6-pounder smooth bores, under Capt. M. B. Miller and Lieut. Joe Norcom, with Gen. D. E. Jones's Third Brigade, at McLean's ford. One rifle 6-pounder and one smooth 6-pounder, under command of Lieut. J. J. Garnett and Lieut. L. A. Adam, with Gen. Longstreet's Fourth Brigade at Blackburn's ford. fire of t»vo 20-pounder Parrott's, which had the effect of first developing, and afterwards silencing, the enemy's batteries near the ford. " Thus far he had not exceeded his instructions : but he got it into his head that the enemy would run whenever seriously menaced, and he declared that * the gi'eat man of the war would be the man that got to Manassas first, and he was going thi-ough that night.' His notion as to the method of executing his proj- ect was to file his brigade down to the stream, draw it up parallel to the other shore, and open an unmeaning fusilade. While engaged in this fooling, a force crossed the stream from the other side, and, striking his left flank (the Twelfth New York), disrupted it completely. This admonished Gen. Tyler to defer his intended visit to Manassas that night, and he withdrew." 34 THE WASHINGTON ARTILLERY. Three 6-pounder smooth bores, and two rifle 6-pounders, under command of Lieut. C. W. Squires and Lieuts. J. B. Richardson and Whittington, with Col. Early's brigade, bivouacking near McLean's farm-house, — thir- teen guns in all. At 7 o'clock A.M. orders were received to send the five guns under Squii'es to Stone bridge, following Gen. Jack- son, who, with his and Bee's brigades, had been ordered to that point, as the enemy had crossed Bull Eun on the extreme left of our line, where there was but a small force of ours under Gen. Evans. Col. Walton and myself, Lieut. Bearing, and the buglers accompanied the five guns, and, upon arriving at the Lewis House, we found the situation about as follows : The enemy had crossed to our side of the Run, above the Stone bridge, where Evans, with a demi-brigade, and Latham's battery of four guns, were posted. Evans, becoming convinced that the enemy was only making a feint at the bridge, left two of Latham's guns and some of his infantry there, and had hastened to put himself in the way of the advancing Fed- erals, who were marching against our left flank. Major Bob Wheat's battalion of Louisiana Tigers were with him, and Bee had just gone to help him with his brigade and two regiments of Bartow's. They were fighting hard against superior numbers. Besides the two guns of Latham's, with Evans, Imboden's battery was in position and firing. This was about 10 o'clock. The firing grew heavier as new troops were put in by the enemy, and they had two or three batteries at work. Lieut. Richardson, with our two rifle-guns, was ordered to a position on a plateau near the THE WASHINGTON ARTILLERY. 35 Henry farm-house, not far from Imboden's guns. The conflict was. raging in full view, and Richardson did some excellent firing, dismounting one of the enemy's guns. Between our position and the hill where Evans and Bee were engaged is a valley, through which runs Young's Branch, a small stream, that crosses the Warrenton turnpike and empties into Bull Run below the Stone bridge. But it was useless to try and hold in check the enemy, with the small force under Evans, and our men fell back, down the hill, across the Warrenton turnpike and Young's branch, and ascended the hill upon which is the Henry House, situated upon a plateau skirted with dwarf pines. Richardson held his position as long as possible, and then fell back after the retreating infantry. The direct road to Manassas juiiction passes over the Henry Hill, and many of Evans's men kept straight on to that place, spreading the report " that all was lost," "they were cut to pieces," etc.- Bee and Bar- tow's men appeared in great confusion, and not much dis- posed to rally and form promptly. Two of Richardson's boys were wounded, — E. C. Payne and Crutcher, — and all hands were furious and fighting mad that they had fallen back. They expected everything to go as easily as on the 18th. Sergt. Edward Owen was making things sulphurous with his damns. " D — 'em ! We'll beat *em yet — d — 'em ! — before the day is out ; " and he expressed the feeling of all hands. But aflTairs looked squally indeed. Lieut. Leftwich, of Latham's battery, with one gun, came up at a run, and desired Col. Walton to allow him to attach himself to our battery ; but the colonel said he had better go in on his own hook. Capt. 36 THE WASHINOTON ARTILLERY. Atkins, a tall Englishman commanding the Wheat Life- Guard of the Tigers, came up with tears in his eyes and a bayonet in his hand, and said his men had all scattered, and he feared Wheat had been killed. But now came Jackson's brigade and Hampton's Legion, and a line was quickly formed in the woods skirting the plateau. Bee, being informed of Jackson's arrival, rode over to him and said, excitedly, " General, they are driving us back." " Sir," replied Jackson, "we must give them the bayonet." Bee, riding rapidly back to his disordered troops, shouted to his men to rally and form, and, pointing with his sword to Jackson's brigade, said, " See ! there's Jackson standing like a stone wall." It was now about noon. Squires, who had been sent to Gen. Cocke with his 6-pounders to engage a battery across Bull Run, where a demonstration had been made by the enemy to cross, checked it. His guns were then joined with Richardson's Rifles at the Lewis House. Just at this time Gens. Johnston and Beauregard dashed at full speed upon the field, and rallied the troops, and restored order. They had concluded that here was to be the fight, and, ordering to our assistance the brigades of Holmes, Bonham, and Early from their positions on the right, along Bull Run, had ridden rapidly up to look into the condition of things. As they passed our guns Gen. Johnston inquired whose they were, and we told him, and he ordered them to follow him. After ua came the batteries of Pendleton (little 4-pounders, from the Virginia Military Institute) and Alburtis, which gave us thirteen guns in all. We were put in position between THS WASEINOTON- ARTILLERY. 37 the newly formed line of Jackson and Bee, reinforced by- Hampton, who had just arrived at Manassas and hurried to the field. Our line was well concealed by the pines skirt- ing the plateau over which the enemy had to cross. As our guns went into position I could not but admire the coolness of our officers and men. They went "into battery" as coolly as upon drill. I must confess I was in rather a nervous condition in this my first experience under fire of the enemy's guns, which had opened again, and a little uncertain how I would stand the plunge ; but the un- uneasiness soon passed off, and, as we came up the hill, I espied two remarkably fine-looking hard crackers lying in the grass, probably dropped' by some soldier. Dis- mounting and picking them up, I placed them in my saddle-pocket, intimating to Col. "Walton -that " perchance we would be glad to have them for dinner, and that I had a flask of sherry in my off-pocket." The Colonel laughed, and replied, "You are a cool one." I was all right after that, and my confidence in myself was some- what assured. After our guns commenced firing we could see but little of our surroundings, owing to the thicket, through which we fired, and the smoke. Two of the enemy's batteries were in front of us, near the Henry House, at short range, but aiming high, sending their shells over our heads and away off into the valley beyond. The Colonel, Lieut. Dearing, and I dismounted, and went in amongst the guns, and the gunners of the Rifles allowed us to try a few shots, and we were inclined to think we made some good hits. The mfantry of Jackson and Bee 38 THE WASBINOTON ARTILLERY. were banging away on our right and left at the enemy, who was standing and delivering volleys around the Henry House, sometimes attempting to advance, but each time falling back, showing gaps in their ranks. A shell burst over our heads, — aimed better than the others, — and a fragment struck Sergeant Reynolds in the head, entering the brain. The grass around the guns now took fire ; but we stamped it out and cut it down with our sabres. While the firing was at the hottest Gen. Beauregard and staff rode up, coming down the lines on our left. He called out, "Col. Walton, do you see the enemy ? " — " Yes," was the reply. " Then hold this po- sition, and the day is ours. Three cheers for Louisiana ! " The "boys" cheered wildly and with a will, and worked their guns the faster. The cheer was taken up all along the line of battle, and gave much encouragement. Just as the General turned to ride away, a shell burst under his horse, disembowelling him, but not injuring the General. Sergt. Owen's clay-bank mare was quietly nibbling grass about the caissons when she was appropriated by Capt. Chisholm of the staiF, and the General mounted her and rode away. When the sergeant, after a while, discov- ered his loss, the fact that his bag containing all his toilet articles, etc., had gone too, was too much, and his temper, expressed a short time before, was eclipsed by the very sulphurous expletives in regard to this transaction. It was but a short time after the General had gone down the line that the enemy's guns ceased firing, and, as the smoke lifted, they could be seen, abandoned upon the field. They then became the object of charge and counter-charo-e THE WASHINGTON ARTILLERY. 39 and to secure them was the aim of each combatant. At 2.45 P.M. a general forward movement caused the enemy to retire beyond the plateau, and our guns were withdrawn to refill the ammunition chests, followed by the batteries that had been firing on our right. Troops that had been ordered up by Johnston and Beau- regard (Kershaw and Cash's regiments, S.C. troops) now began to arrive > and as fast as they came up were sent to the left of our line to confront the enemy, whose right was being extended to outflank our left. At about 3.30 P.M. Gen. Kirby Smith arrived from Winchester, with Gen. Elzey's brigade, and was formed also on the left. Gen. Smith was wounded, and the command de- volved upon Gen. Elzey, who immediately assailed the enemy, and Beauregard gave orders for the whole line to advance. The enemy was driven from the hill, and fell back upon his reserves on the Warrenton turnpike, and rallied for another and stronger attack. In the meanwhile, at about 4 P.M., Col. Early came upon the field with his splendid brigade, composed of Kemper's Seventh Virginia, Early's Twenty-fourth regi- ment Virginia Volunteers, and Hays's Seventh Louisiana regiment, and was ordered to move around the left of our line and attack the enemy's right, just re-forming and apparently about to resume the offensive. This was done, our own Seventh bearing aloft the colors of Louisiana in the van, yelling and firing as they advanced. They were joined by a section of artillery under Lieut. Beckham, and a squadron of cavalry under Col. J. E. B. Stuart. The enemy's right was thrown into confusion, and, a gen- 40 THE WASHINGTON ARTILLERY. eral charge being immediately ordered by Gen. Beaure- gard, a panic ensued, and the whole Federal army fled in wild confusion from the field. The artillery captured in front of the Henry house was turned upon its late owners by Capts. Chisholm, Ferguson, and others of the staff, and a number of rounds fired. Eleven guns were taken here from the enemy. At 4.30 P.M. I rode over the field, near the Henry house, where we had been fighting, and saw the effects of battle for the first time. Dead and wounded men lay about on every side ; broken muskets, pieces of clothing, dead horses, disabled cannon were scattered about. We found men in the uniform of the New York Fire Zouaves, the Marines, the Seventy-ninth Highlanders, and the Fourteenth New York regiment. To the wounded we gave water, and had some of them sent to the hospitals. The Fire Zouaves thanked us for our attention, but frankly said they were " after us " especially, and would not have given us quarter. The batteries we had been fighting were those of Griffin and Ricketts. A large proportion of their men and horses were killed or wounded. Some of the men got away on the battery horses, cutting them loose from the traces with knives. Capt. Ricketts was left behind wounded, and fell into our hands. Any damage our guns failed to inflict upon them was completed by the Thirty-third Virginia regiment, of Jackson's brigade, who approached so near the guns as to •wipe out the cannoneers with one volley. rORST BATTLE xJuly aier 1861. ■■ Confedej'ate troops ^ Federal troopa locale of tAfiles IV tr^nt^*k . o. s. TEE ^VASHINGTON ARTILLERY. 41 Close by an exploded caisson, near the Henry house, was the body of a handsome lieutenant of artillery. He was noticed particularly for his splendid apparel. He wore the finest of linen, and silk stockings. His mustache was waxed to a nicety. Pie was dressed with evident care, as though going to a ball. He was recognized by an old acquaintance, a Virginian, as Douglas Ramsey, a well-known member of "Washington society. I met Gen. Jackson riding about the field, and spoke to him of the events of the day. He had been slightly wounded in the hand, and had it bound up in his handker- chief. He was a very quiet, plain-looking man, dressed in a blue military coat, and wore the shoulder-straps of a colonel in the United States army. His cap was of the old army pattern, in vogue during the Mexican war, — blue cloth, flat on top. Lieut. Bearing and I secured the colors of the Second Wisconsin regiment, and took them to Gen. Beaure- gard. At about 5 P.M., President Davis came upon the field; as he passed the spot where our guns were halted, the boys cheered him, and, turning to his Aid, he said, as he raised his hat, " Don't they look like little game-cocks ? " While the enemy was rushing off towards Bull Run, in a panic, we could see them quite distinctly from the Lewis- , house hill, and opened fire upon them with our rifles, just to "help them along," but soon received an order from Gen. Johnston to cease firing, and "save our ■ ammunition for the pursuit." ■ 42 TBE WASHINGTON ARTILLERY. Our day's work being done, the Colonel and I sat down under a spreading oak-tree, and lunched upon the two hard crackers and the sherry, verifying to the full my re- mark, that " we would be glad to get them." We heard a good many reports from the field from Bliffkins. Bob "Wheat had been desperately wounded, and might die. His "Tigers" had scattered. The Seventh Louisiana received much praise. They double-quicked five miles to get into the fight, and some of the men were overcome by the heat. They say,Capt. Dan Wilson, commanding the "Blues," although a large man, made as good time as any one, and called out to his men, when they showed fatigue, " Come on, Blue-birds, light on me ! " The soubriquet of " Blue-bird Wilson " had already been applied to him in the regiment. During the day (21st) Gen. D.R. Jones moved his com- mand across Bull Eun at McLean's ford, — in conformity to the original orders of Gen. Beauregard, — and advanced along the road towards Centreville, but soon encountered a heavy force of infantry and artillery strongly posted be- hind an abatis of felled trees. He was met by a furious fire of infantry and artillery at short range, and withdrew his troops to his former position. While doing so one of Capt. Miller's 6-pounders got fast against a tree, and there was some little delay in moving it on. An irate staflf- officer rode up, and began finding fault with the men at the piece. This annoyed the sergeant, and he called out, "Who are you, anyhow?" To which the officer replied, "I am Oapt. A. Coward, of Gen. Jones's staff. Who are you ? " "I am Sergt. A. Hero, of the Washington Ar- THE •WASHINGTON ARTILLERY. 43 tillery." The singularity of names and meeting put all hands in a. good-humor. The Howitzer Battery, under Lieut. Eosser, was on the march from 2 P.M. with Ewell's brigade in the direction of Fairfax C.H., and, returning to Union Mills, arrived at our position, with the reserves, unfortunately too late to take part in the battle. The guns under Lieut. Garnett, with Gen. Longstreet, were not ena:a£red. All the officers and men of our battalion were uni- formed in blue, as were many other commands, and re- sembled the Federal troops. A lot of red-flannel strips were distributed to us to be tied upon the left arm above the elbow. And we so wore them. The commissary wagon coming up, all hands enjoyed a supper of bacon and hard-tack, and bivouacked under the trees. On the 22d we were awakened by the rain beating upon our faces ; and it was wet, muddy, and disagreeable. After breakfast I rode out with Eosser along the Warrenton turnpike, following the route taken by the enemy on the previous afternoon. We came across evidences of great demoralization ; the road was strewn with muskets, cloth- ing, haversacks, all abandoned in the flight. At Cub Eun, a small stream crossing the turnpike near Centreville, there was a narrow suspension bridge. In the headlong flight this bridge became blocked by wagons, ambulances, and cannon, those following in rear jammed against those in front, and the result was confusion and death. The barricade was complete. Here a battery 44 TEE WASHINGTON ARTILLERY. of artillery was found and a small boat howitzer. Dead men were in the abandoned ambulances, and, altogether, it was a dreadful and sickening sight. A canvas-covered trunk lay wide open in the middle of the road, marked " Col. Berry, Fourth Maine Regiment." The contents had evidently been already overhauled, so my conscience permitted me to examine the remainder. I found a new uniform coat, of blue cloth, — judging from its size, the colonel of the Fourth Maine must have been a large man, — a bag of tea, some warm under-clothing, which I appro- priated as "spoils of war." We had heard from prisoners that at Centreville there had been quite a large party of excursionists. Congressmen, and others from Washington, who had come out with their women to " see the fun." We saw evidences of their presence in the shape of baskets of champagne, etc., and several carriages of differ- ent kinds were being carried to the rear. One of these Rosser secured, and accredited its ownership to the Hon. John P. Hale, of New Hampshire. We gathered up as many red blankets, overcoats, and other "loot," as we could carry upon our horses, and started back to the battery. En route we saw in a fence corner a full set of brass-band instruments ; but the musicians had beaten them all out of shape. The bio- drum, however, was in good order, and I took it up be- hind me after the manner of a travelhng circus, and sent it to our band leader, who was at Manassas Junction, attend- ing our wounded. Upon our return to our bivouac we distributed the blankets and overcoats to the boys, and they THE WASHINGTON ARTILLERY. 45 gladly received them, as it was raining hard. Col. Berry's uniform fitted our Colonel exactly, and so he appropriated it. Col. Tom Taylor afterwards wore it into Washington on flag-of-truce duty. During the 22d and 23d of July there was a general clearing up of the battle-field. Details were burying the dead, ordnance officers collecting arms and equipments, ambulances, wagons, etc. A new bridge was brought by the Federals to replace the stone bridge, in case we had blown it up. It was reported that a large lot of handcuffs had been found in a wagon, — several thousands of them ; we presume, if the enemy had defeated us, all the prisoners would have been furnished with bracelets free of cost, and we would have marched into "Washington as the animals went into Noah's ark, two by two. The sorriest sights upon a battle-field are in those dread- ful field-hospitals, established in barns, under large tents, and in out-houses. The screams and groans of the poor fellows undergoing amputation are sometimes dread- ful, — and then the sight of arms and legs surrounding these places, as they are thrown into great piles, is some- thing one that has seen the results of battle can never forget. No longer do the rush, roar and boom of shot and shell, and the volleys of musketry bring the fire to the soldier's eye and make his blood tingle through his veins in glorious excitement ; but now the saw and the knife prove that all is not glory when grim-visaged War shows his wrinkled front, and strikes down so many thousands of brave fellows, who, but yesterday, boldly marched in serried ranks. 46 THE WASHINGTON' ARTILLERY. On the 24th of July we were allowed to return to our old camping-ground, and our tents were pitched as before. We were glad to get where we could rest. We had experienced a lively time of it since we struck tents a week ago, and no mistake. Since the afternoon of the 21st — when we were told to " save our ammunition for the pursuit " — we had heard nothing in reference to the intention then to pursue. "We had seen some printed placards from Washington calling upon stragglers to rejoin their regiments, and peo- ple who came through the lines reported great demorali- zation and fright prevailing. We presumed the President and our generals had good reasons for our inactivity. During the battle of the 21st our army numbered, all told, 32,070 men; but we had only 13,000 engaged, the remainder beincf stationed at the several fords alongf Bull Eun, — so far away they could not get into action. Our loss was put down at : 378 killed, 1,489 wounded, 30 missing. We captured: 28 pieces of artillery, 4,500 muskets, 500,000 cartridges, a garrison flag, 10 regimental colors, besides 64 artillery horses with their harnesses.^ * Exti"act from Johnston's XaiTative, p. 55 : — The retreat was marked by great disorder, all semblance of military organi- zation being lost. Many did not even stop on reaching the camps on the south of the Potomac but fled by the bridges and femes to Washington. The Union loss must have been above 2,000 (2,952 ?) , for tlie prisoners, well and wounded, left in Beauregard's hands, numbered 1,460. — Swinton,p. 57. TEE WASHINGTON ARTILLERY. 47 ADDRESS TO THE ARMY. Head-quartees Akmt op the Potomac, Manassas, July 25, 1861. Soldiers of the Confederate States : — Oae week ago a countless host of men, organized into an army, with all the appointments which modern art and practical skill could devise, invaded the soil of Virginia. Their people sounded their approach with triumphant displaj's of anticipated victory. Their generals came in almost royal state ; their great ministers, senators, and women came to witness the immolation of our army, and the subjugation of our people, and to celehrate them with wild revelry. It is with the profoundest emotion of gratitude to an over-ruling God, whose hand is manifest in protecting our homes and our liberties, that we, your generals commanding, are enabled, in the name of our whole country, to thank you for that patriotic courage, that heroic gallantry, that devoted daring, exhibited by you in the actions of the 18th and 21st of July, by which the hosts of the enemy were scattered and a signal and glorious victory obtained. The t%vo affairs of the 18th and 21 st were but the sustained and continued ef- forts of your patriotism against the constantly recurring columns of an enemy fully treble your number, and this effort was crowned on the evening of the 21st with a victory so complete that the invaders were driven disgracefully from the field, and made to fly in disorderly rout back to their entrenchments, a dis- tance of over thirty miles. They left upon the field nearly eveiy piece of artillery, a large portion of their arms, equipments, baggage, stores, etc., and almost every one of their wounded and dead, amounting, together with prisoners, to many thousands. And thus the northern hosts were driven by you from the soil of Virginia. Soldiers, we congratulate you on an event which insures the liberty of our country. "We congratulate every man of you whose glorious privilege it was to partici- pate in this triumph of courage and truth, — to fight iu the battle of Manassas. You have created an epoch in the history of liberty, and unborn nations will rise up and call you blessed. Continue this noble devotion, looking always to the protection of a just God, and, before time grows much older, we will be hailed as the deliverers of a nation of ten millions of people. Comrades, our brothers who have fallen have earned undying renown on earth, and their blood, shed iu our holy cause, is a precious and acceptable sacrifice to the Father of truth and right. Their graves are beside the tomb of Washington, their spirits have joined his in eternal communion. We will hold the soil in which the dust of Washington is mingled with the dust of our brothers. We will ti'ansmit this land free to our children, or we will fall into the fresh graves of our brothers. We will drop one tear on their laurels and move forward to avenge them. Soldiers, we congratulate you on a glorious triumph and complete victory. We thank you for doing your whole duty in the service of your countiy. (Signed) J. E. Johnston, General, C.S.A. (Signed) ^ G. T. Beauregard, General, O.S.A. 48 THE WASHINGTON ARTILLERY. CHAPTEE m. BACK IN CAMP. Back in Camp. — Retrospection. — Bountiful Larder. — New Friends. — Appointments and Promotions. — Our Camps. — Camp Ben- jamin. — President Daris Reviews tiie Army. — CentreTille. — Quaker Guns. — New Tents. — New Battle-flags Distributed. — Battle at Ball's Bluff. — " Chasseurs-a-pied." — ■" Here's Your Mule." — "Bolivar Ward." — Col. P. T. Moore. —M.ijor Bob "WTieat. — Col. Harry Hays. — " Noctes Ambrosia." — " Little White House on Salisbury Plains." — Winter Quarters. — Waltonville. HOW delightful it is to stretch one's self upon the clean straw on the tent floor and have a good, long rest, taking time to recall the events of the past week ! No enemy to bother you, no sudden orders to be up and doing, no bugle sounding " Boots and saddles," or " Column forwar-r-r-d ! " Nothing to do but eat and sleep and drink ! Happy soldier, to feel that lie has been through the fiery furnace and has come out with his escutcheon bright and his body whole. "What a physical change has come over us ! We are bronzed by exposure and seasoned thoroughly. We have given our dead a soldier's burial and our wounded are lionizing it in Richmond. Lucky fellows, with their hurts ! Of course they will hurry back to us less fortunate ones. Oh, yes ! of course, if the charming girls will let them. We can just imagine the full charges of " Pizzini's " ice- cream they wUl be loaded with, the nice Virginia rolls the THE WASHINOTON ARTILLERY. 49 dear matrons will provide, and the sweet flowers and fruit they will receive from the maidens, and all that, filling the sick-room with delightful and fragrant odors. Then the time when the crutch comes to the front. Good gracious ! — two of them ! — two crutches ! A double charge of "Pizzini" — then the box from home, and — the imagination fails — we roll over and fill a pipe with "Lone Jack," and try to think what kind of rations our cook will serve to-day. How we have reduced our equipment since active service began ! Knapsacks have been voted a bore, and have been or will be thrown aside. On leavings home each man had his revolver for "cloSe quarters," and the sabre was part of the regulation uniform. Both are in disgrace. The re- volver will be traded off, sold, or sent home, and the sabres (all that are left, for many have disappeared during the past week) wUl be turned over to the cavalry. ^ Even the officers will hereafter strap theirs to their saddles, or, better still, hang them up in the company wagons. ' Head-qhakteks Dept. Nob. Virginia, Rapidan, March 23, 1862. General Orders, No. 34. I. Commissioned officers are forbidden to carry fire-arms except pistols. Non- commissioned officers and privates are prohibited from canying pistols. II. On the march, captains of batteries will not allow the cannoneers to ride on the limbers or caissons, nor allow any baggage to be carried thereon. III. Brigadier-generals and colonels are especially charged with a rigid en- forcement of this order. IV. The chief of ordnance is directed to purchase, at a fair price, all pistols or carbines of which their owners may wish to dispose. By command of Gen. Johnston. Thos. G. Khett, ^. A. Genl. 50 THE WASHINGTON ARTILLERY. A blanket snugly rolled inside of a rubber cloth, the ends tied together and thrown over one shoulder, will hold all the necessary change of clothing ; the haversack will carry the crackers and bacon, the comb, the soap, and the towel, and the tooth-brush will decorate the button-hole of the jacket, together with tobacco-bag. We still retain our white gaiters and red kepis, but they are bound eventually to go. The blue cloth dress uniforms have been shipped to Richmond, and will there remain for swell occasions. We were called " Band-box Soldiers " by the commands which came to Richmond direct from Pensacola, and saw us there before we took the field. We are now fast approach- ing an appearance that would have met their entire appro- bation, only, as Bull Run flows just back of our camp, we could claim to be somewhat cleaner than the average ; and let it be of record, that, all through the war, the Washing- ton Artillery-man, though he might wear a ragged jacket and torn shoes, was clean and presentable. Indeed, this condition of things was necessary, as the command had, or claimed to have, cousins and aunts in every city or hamlet in the whole of the eastern part of the Old Dominion. The best rooms everywhere were opened to them, and the land flowed with eggs, chickens, milk, and " wild honey." August 1 we were still in camp, and were visited by numerous sight-seers, who came to look at the battle-field. There was an exploded caisson near Mrs. Henry's house, and the boys had so constantly informed the curious that it belonged to Sherman's battery that they began to be- lieve it themselves, and chips of it were sent far and wide as souvenirs. The Henry house was also beino- t-l o a SI > THE WASHINGTON ARTILLERY. 51 chopped down, with a prospect that, in a little while, only the stone foundation would be left. Thanks to kind friends in New Orleans, our larder was bountifully supplied with claret, pates, sardines, etc., and our caterer, Capt. Johnson, or " Captain Shabrack," as the boys called him, on account of his handsome saddle-cloth, in conjunction with the major-domo, procured for the mess, from the surrounding country, milk and butter, eggs, chickens, and ice. Our military chest was the " Aladdin's lamp." Our circle of acquaintance was gradually extending among the Virginia regiments encamped near us, and especially in the First Virginia. The surgeons of the latter, Drs. Cullen and Maury, afterwards on Gen. Longstreet's staff, we saw much of, and became greatly attached to. The Hon. John Slidell and Judge Alexander Walker of Louisiana were often in our camp. Mr. Slidell was a guest of Gen. Beauregard, whose head-quarters, re- moved to Weir's house, were not far from our camp on Bull Kun. We often rode over after dress-parade, in the evening. In the yard a number of tents were pitched for the general and his staff. The office of Col. Jordan, his adjutant-general, was in the house. Capt. Gray Latham, with his red flannel shirt, was the hero of the hour, his battery having fought well with Evans on the 21st of July. Capt. H. E. Peyton also loomed up as a hero. On the 21st he was a private in the cavalry, but stuck so tight and so gallantly to Beauregard, as a volunteer aid, that the General had him promoted to a staff position with the rank of captain. 52 THE WASHINGTON ARTILLERY. The General's staff was composed mostly of young South Carolinians of good family, such as Capts. Hey ward, Chisholm, Ferguson, and others. He had also a number of volunteer aids, all men of distinction. Ex-Governor James Chesnut, William Porcher Miles, Col. John S. Preston, and ex-Governor Manning, a most charming gentleman. His juleps, made of his own dark Cognac, and served in a large bucket, with huge lumps of ice, and plenty of straws protruding from the fragrant mint, were simply marvellous. We shall never forget them. Drs. Chopin and Beard, of New Orleans, were also on Gen. Beauregard's staff as surgeons. It appears that we were now booked as the " famous Washington Artillery" for our services on the 18th and 21st of July, and, in truth, a finer set of fellows never "drew sword or poised a lance." They enjoyed every hour with a gusto that is always catching ; — sometimes, but not often, under roof, sometimes, in the drenching rain, they slept without a murmur, and woke in the morning with the same cheerful faces and happy hearts. When they had food all ate and grew fat, and when they had none they smoked cigarettes and fought just as well. The camp of the artillery is always picturesque, but es- pecially so when on outpost. The guns are parked in order, the caissons in rear, and the horses near by ; four streets of tents, when in regular camp, run back in straio-ht lines to the line of officers' quarters, at right angles, in the rear. In front of the camp is the guard-tent, and on the rear line are the Colonel's head-quarters, and the flag-staff and bulletin board for posting the orders of the day. The THE WASHINGTON ARTILLERY. 53 camp-flag is hoisted every day at reveille and lowered when the bugles sound retreat at sunset. The men, when not on fatigue duty, lounge about, smoking, playing euchre, crib- bage, or chess ; some are reading or writing letters. The arrival of the mail from home is a moment of great excite- ment. As the package is opened by the adjutant and dis- tributed, what joy it brings to some, what probable distress to others ! Who knows ? On the 1st of September camp was moved to Centreville, and called Camp Orleans. This camp was laid out with great regularity, and the company streets were covered over with arbors of green boughs. Close by, the Seventh Louisiana regiment was encamped, and there was much social intercourse between us. We often met Col. Harry Hays, Lieut. -Col. Penn, Major Eickarby, Capts. Sam Flower, Morgan, and the adjutant, Lieut. John New. A frolicsome humor came over a party of officers one evening, and a raid was planned, led by " gallant old Eickarby," — "officer of the day," — who, returning with some of us to our camp, convinced the sentinel over our guns that it was " all right," and we removed all the " fifth wheels " from the caissons and rolled them noiselessly through the main street of the camp, and piled them up in front of head-qua:rters. At guard-mounting next morning, our " officer of the day" got a raking from the ColoneP and pined away in arrest for a week. 'After the first battle of Manassas Major Walton was recommended by Gens. Johnston and Beauregard for promotion to the rank of " colonel of artillery." No such grade being possible at the time in artillery, — major being the highest rank in that branch of the service, — a law was passed by the Confederate Con- gress to meet the case, and, on receiving his commission, Col. Walton was at 54 THE WASHINGTON ARTILLERY. While at Centreville the battalion' received a new fatigue outfit for the men, — jackets and pants, "made to order " by Ira Smith & Co. Each man was measured for his suit, and they came, properly labelled, to their owners, — another good thing from the military chest. The material was what is known as the Crenshaw Mills stuff, a bluish- gray in color, and gave the command a neat and distinctive appearance. Thus far we had no use for government money. Messieurs Lanier, Wood, and Cammack arrived from New Orleans as commissioners for the State of Louisiana to furnish clothing to the troops. It was doubtful whether we should be included in the distribution, as we were not really " State troops " but entered directly the regular Confederate army. They had expressed a desire to visit the outposts, and we proposed to take them out and get up a little skirmish for them, so they could astonish the people at home with their experiences. The enemy crossed the Potomac river September 11 in force, accompanied by Griffin's battery of eight guns. They were met by a regiment of infantry and two of our guns from Munson's Hill, under Lieut. Eosser.^ The affair occurred at Lewinsville, five miles from Munson's Hill. The enemy retired. once appointed by Gen. Beauregard Chief of Artilleiy of the " Army of the Potomac" (as the Confederate army in Virginia was then called), remaining, however, in command of the Washington Artilleiy. ' Head-quaeteks TniED Battery, Washington Artillekt, Munson's Hill, September 14, 1861. Colonel : — ■ In obedience to an order received from Col. J. E. B. Stuart, on the nth inst., about 12 o'clocli, I immediately proceeded with one section of my Battery (one 3-inch rifle gun and one 12-pound howitzer) in rear of the rci- THE WASHINGTON ARTILLERY. 55 We had a report that night that the enemy had crossed on our left flank, and a battle was looked for in a day or two. Gen. McClellan was in command of the Federals. Gen. Beauregard had moved his head-quarters to Fairfax C.H. His son, Rene Beauregard, pitched his tent in our camp as a cadet. He came to perfect himself in artillery. We had but two companies now in camp, the Third and Fourth ; the first, under Lieut. Squires, was at Ger- mantown, and four of our guns were under Rosser, at , Munson's Hill, overlookino- Washinflrton. The dome of the capitol could be distinctly seen, and the flags waving over large fortifications. The enemy was apparently in large force. Our skirmishers were engaged daily. ment of infantry ('whicli I found at Taylor's cross-i'oads), in the direction of Lewinsville, until we reached, in the vicinity of the enemy, and considerably in his rear, a narrow lane, where the column halted. I then rode forward, to obseiTe the position of the enemy. I ascertained that his right had discovered our approach, and was moving rapidly to the rear and left to join the main body of his forces. But, before the alarm had been communicated to the left, I moved my section of artillery forward, and surprised, by asbot from the rifle, a large bodyof infan- tiy which was occupying an iuclosure and house about six hundred yards off. This evidently was their first notification of our presence, and threw them into great confusion. This shot was followed quickly by a spherical case from the howitzer, whose ef- fect was to scatter the enemy and put him in retreat. The road over which the enemy retired is, in this locality, nearly parallel to the lane in which my pieces were planted, and, from the rapidity of my fire, and the confusion of the enemy consequent upon every discharge, I can but believe that he suffered terribly. After he had been driven from the field I rode over this ground and found two killed, one mortally wounded, and captured one prisoner. The road here was ploughed by my projectiles and thick with fragments of shell, and strewn with the canteens, haversacks, and a few guns (muskets) of the enemy. Upon a slight eminence was a house, a few paces from the road, and to the rigbt of my position were posted two field-pieces, a I'iiie and a howitzer, which returned our fire wai-mly until their retreating column had passed, then, rein- forced by six more pieces, kept up the fire for a short time from this position, then fii-ed retiring, evidently supposing themselves pursued, for, as I rode along 56 THE WASHINGTON^ ARTILLERY. A few days previously the enemy sent up a large balloon, and our boys fired at it with a rifle-gun. The ball must have passed unpleasantly close, as the balloon was imme- diately drawn down. Our first company under Squires returned from an expe- dition to Little Falls, on the Potomac, where they fired into a large Federal camp, inflicting some loss. The enemy struck tents and moved away. The following order was issued : — Head-quaeteks Washington Artillekt, Camp Orleans, Centreville, Va. Oedek No. 34 : — September 29, 1861. The attorney-general and acting secretary of war haying decided finally that the 11th section of the Act of Congress of the 6th of March, in their rear, I observed their projectiles falling far in advance of me and fully a mile in advance of my battery. It affords me great pleasure to say that the conduct of my. men was admirable. Though in position, when the enemy's greatly superior force could be clearly seen, and opposed by great superiority in numbers of cannon, every man per- formed his whole duty coolly and cheerfully. My attention was called particularly to Lieut. Slocomb, for whose gallant ser- vice I am truly grateful. He was engaged all the time, assisting the cannoneers in pointing and ranging the pieces, by pointing out the enemy and observing the effect of each fire. One of the gunners being sick, I assigned private John D. Britton to the im- poi'tant post of gunner of the howitzer, and the accuracy of his fire, his coolness and energy entitle him to the greatest praise. The inefficiency of the case and shell projectiles furnished me a few days since for the seiTice of the rifled guns was again exemplified in this engagement, not one of them (owing to the want of suflicicnt windage for the time fuze) exploding. The " Boarman-" fuze, with which the spherical case and shell for the howit- zer were served, showed, in their manufacture, gi'cat deficiency. There was no uniformity whatever in their burning. Some cut at five seconds did not burn, in many cases. Two others cut at two, burnt as long as four or five seconds. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, T. L. EossER, G.S.A., Col. J. B. Walton, Commanding Battery 2, W-A. Uommanding Washington A rtillery, Cenireville, Va. Note. In this engagement, sixty-six (66) rifle and forty-one (41) spherical cases were fii'ed. TSJE -WASHmaTON ARTILLERY. 57 1861, entitled "An Act for the establishment and organization of the Army of the Confederate States of America," is the law which governs this battalion in the filling of vacancies in the commissioned officers, the president has made the following appointments, to wit : — First Lieutenant C. W. Squires to be a captain vice Capt. H. M. Isaacson, resigned. Second Lieutenant H. A. Battles to be a first lieutenant mce Lieut. C. C. Lewis, resigned. Second Lieutenant H. G. Gieger to be a. first lieutenant ' vice Lieut. J. B. Whittington, resigned. Second Lieutenant C. H. Slocomb to be a first lieutenant vice Lieut. S. J. McPherson,' resigned. First Sergeant Edward Owen to be a first lieutenant to fill an orig- inal vacancy. First Lieutenant T. L. Rosser has been appointed to temporary rank of captain for service with volunteer troops, under Act No. 155 of 2d section of Congress, approved May 21, 1861, and ordered to report to these head-quarters for duty. Second Lieut. J. J. Garnett is in like inanner appointed to temporary rank of first lieutenant, and ordered to report to these head-quarters. Capt. Eosser will assume command of the second company, to which he has heretofore been attached as lieutenant commanding. Lieut. Battles is assigned to the fourth company. Lieut. Gieger is assigned to the second company. Lieut. Edward Owen is assigned to the first company. The vacancies of second lieutenants will be filled at an early day by the president. The following comprise the officers of this Battalion : — Captains. — M. B. Miller, B. E. Eshleman, C. W. Squires, and T. L. Eosser. First Lieutenants. — Joe Norcom, J. B. Eichardson, W. M. Owen, H. A. Battles, J. J. Garnett, H. G. Gieger, C. H. Slocomb, Edward Owen. Second Lieutenants. — AH vacant. By order of J. B. "WALTON, Colonel Commanding. W. M. Owen, -Adjutant. 58 THE WASHINGTON ARTILLERY. The vacancies were afterwards filled by the appointment of meritorious non-commissioned officers. The Battalion sustained during its first year a severe loss in the resignation of some of its best officers, among whom were Capt. Isaacson and Lieuts. Lewis, Slocomb, Whit- tington, and Adam, whose talents had greatly contributed to the successful organization of the Battalion in its infancy, and most of whom afterwards did good service in other companies. On the 14th of October our batteries were moved forward to Fairfax Court House, and we called our tenting-place " Camp Benjamin," after the distinguished secretary of war. The Second company remained on outpost duty under Capt. Eosser, with Gen. J. E. B. Stuart, near AVashington city. While at " Camp Benjamin " we received three 24-pounder howitzers, which gave us a complement of four guns to each battery — making a total of sixteen (16) guns. The battalion of " Chasseur s-bj-pied^'' Major St. Paul, of New Orleans, were here assigned to our Battalion as sharp-shooters. They were all Creoles, and splendid fellows. During our stay at " Camp Benjamin " we experienced one of the severest thunder-storms conceivable, and sad havoc was made with our canvas coverings. Lieut. Garnett shared my tent, and, as the wind rose and the thunder rolled, we sprang from our blankets, and each seized a tent-pole, and steadied our frail habitation as best we could; but it soon became evident that we must succumb to the elements. Just as Garnett .cried out " that THE WASHINGTON ARTILLERY. 59 it was glorious to die for one's country ! " down went the whole structure prone upon the ground, with the rain pat- tering upon our backs. I could hear Garnett ripping and tearing about " patriotism ! " " love of country ! " " It's glorious so to -live, — yes, very, in mud and water," "Whose war is this, anyhow?" etc., etc: I asked him what we had better do about it, and he replied, "Do about it? Why I'm going to stay right here, just to be revenged upon the whole Southern Confederacy ! " So we did, — upon wet blankets in the mud, — and the tent-cloth flapping like a wet sail over us. At daylight we discovered the whole camp in about the same condition, and the Colonel had fared no better. The wind had actually carried his loose articles, including his watch, to a neighboring fence corner, and it puzzled the " major-domo " not a little to get them all together again. The army was reviewed here by President Davis. On October 19 the enemy made a strong demonstra- tion upon Fairfax Court House, and our army was with- drawn to CentreviUe for a better position, there to encamp and fortify. In most of the works "Quaker guns" (logs of wood mounted on wagon wheels, and covered partially with brush) were placed. They made a formidable appear- ance, and " intelligent contrabands " could report them to MacClellan. The Battalion received from New Orleans a full set of new tents, and our camp was pitched close by Gen. Beauregard's head-quarters, and called " Camp Hollins." The tents were of excellent material, and presented a most comfortable appearance. 60 TBE WASHINGTON ARTILLERY. An inspection being ordered, everything was found in "apple-pie order." Passing along the line of tents one could see a hundred evidences of the character of the men. Everything was as neat as a parlor, and in perfect order. Many of the tents had been floored, others filled with straw, over which rubber cloths had been spread. Knap- sacks (a few still remaining) and blankets had been care- fully packed and rolled, and arrayed along the back wall, in the centre of which was a rack for clothes and small arms. Every tent looked really comfortable, and gave evidence of the remarkable ingenuity of the men. The Chasseurs destroyed their baggage upon leaving Fairfax. They had a lot of trunks, and, having no wagon to bring them off, set fire to them, thinking the emergency greater than it really was. While here the army received the new battle-flags, — a blue St. Andrew cross upon a field of red. This was the particular flag of the army, wholly different from the " Con- federate flag," and is not to be confounded with that. The new flag was from a design furnished Congress by our Col. J. B. "Walton and E. C. Hancock, of New Orleans, and the first ones made were fashioned by the Misses Carey, of Baltimore, out of their own silk dresses. They sent three to Centreville, — one for Gen. Beauregard,' another for Gen. Johnston, and a third for Gen. Van Dorn. Every regiment had now its own flag. 1 Gen. Beauregard's flag was sent to New Orleans, and when the city fell into the hands of the Federals it was sent to Havana. It now (1883) rests amono- the archives of the " Washington ArtiUei-y," in its new Arsenal in New Orlean^, having heen presented to the command for safe-keeping by the General. TEE WASHINOTON ARTILLERY. 61 On the day of presentation the whole army was massed upon the heights of Centreville and received their colors with great enthusiasm. Gov. Letcher, of Virginia, presented each Virginia regiment with a stand of State colors, — blue ground with the coat of arms in the centre. After the ceremony of presentation was over, a large number of officers were by invitation assembled at the head-quarters of Gen. Van Dorn, where a collation was spread, and as Capt. Fairfax, of Gen. Longstreet's staff, had sent to his ancient manor-house, in Loudon county, for South-down mutton and rare old wines, we had a royal time. On the afternoon of October 21 a courier galloped to Gen. Beauregard's head-quarters with information that an engagement had been fought at Leesburg. Evans's brigade had been attacked by Federal troops under command of Col. Baker. It was reported that the odds were greatly against our forces. Four Federal regi- ments crossed the Potomac at Edwards's ferry and were met and checked by Barksdale's Thirteenth Mississippi regiment. Five other regiments crossed at Ball's Bluff, and were met by Hunton's Eighth Virginia, Featherstone's Seventeenth Mississippi, and Burt's Eighteenth Mississippi regiments, and after a furious fight were driven over the Bluff in a panic equal to Bull Run. Many rushed into the river and were drowned. Col. Baker was killed on the field. This affair waked us up considerably and increased con- fidence in the powers of our army, already so well and 62 THE WASHINGTON- ARTILLERY. securely established. AVe heard that Col. Jenifer was very active and came in for a larg-e share of credit for tlie suc- cess of our troops. On the 22d it was deemed necessary, in view of further movements of the enemy at Leesburg, to send some troops to Evans, and among the forces ordered out for the march we received orders to send the "Chasseurs'" and a battery. It was the " Third company's " turn, as they didn't have much of a show on the 21st of July, and so the men roUed their blankets and received three days' rations. The other companies that were to remain behind were satisfied, however, not to leave their comfortable tents for a long inarch through mud and rain. The "Chasseurs" filed out of camp about 8 A.M. ; the Third company's bugle sounded, "Boots and Saddles," and the boys marched away, followed by the cheers and good wishes of their comrades. The parting of Major St. Paul and his cook (female Irish) was affecting in the extreme. " Adieu, Louise ! ma ch'ere! Adieu, I may never more the plaisir to see you again. Adieu ! " and with tears in his eyes he gave her a French hug, throwing his arms around her two hundred pounds avoirdupois. " Good luck to ye, ye ould divil ! " Louise murmured, and returned to her camp-fire. In the evening news came of another affair at Leesburo-, our troops again driving the enemy. On the 29th the "Chasseurs " and the " Third company " returned to camp, tired out and disgusted that they had "marched up the hill, and then marched down again," and didn't get a shot. They stood the quizzing of the boys THE WASSINGTON ARTILLERY. 63 with resignation and philosophy, and settled down again to camp-life. That mythical personage, "Bolivar Ward," seemed to have arrived to-day, for he was much inquired after. It was a camp joke to send some credulous fellow oiF on a wild-goose chase to find a letter or a package from home, or something imaginary, said to be in the possession of" Bolivar Ward." The information would probably emanate from the guard-house, and the victim would be sent to the extreme end of the camp for " Bolivar," only to be sent to the other extreme, all the while asking every one he met, "Have any of you fellows seen Bolivar Ward?" — "Oh, yes ! I saw him at the picket rope," one would reply. At the " picket rope " he had been seen at the Colonel's quar- ters, and back he would go ; after wasting his precious time for a few hours, he would discover the "sell" and "acknowledge the corn." This aflTorded great amusement, and it became a standard reply to all inquiries such as "Where'sthe skillet?"— "Bolivar Ward has it."-" Where's the water-bucket ? "— " Bolivar Ward has it." The expression of " Here's your mule " seems to have come into vogue in this camp. It seems to have origi- nated when an old farmer visited the camp in search of a lost mule. When it became known in camp that some one was in search of a stray hybrid, from all quarters would be heard, " Here's your mule ; " and the searcher was trotted about as was the anxious inquirer after "Bolivar." At this time our forces had dwindled down to about 40,000 men, and it was reported by scouts that MacClellan 64 THE WASHINGTON ARTILLERY. was organizing in front of Washington an army of 100,000 men. We had an immense number of absentees ; in fact, it looked as thougli tlie authorities had been thinking that "Manassas" ended the war, and that everybody could go home and have a good time ; that they had come on to Virginia for the summer months, and to have a "day's shooting." The weather was now so bad and the roads so deep in mud that it was not believed possible to move an army or begin a campaign until early spring. During the month of November Col. P. T. Moore, of the First Virginia regiment, returned from sick leave, having been wounded on the 18th of July. We had many social gatherings at our respective head-quarters, his regiment being encamped alongside. He had an excellent band, better, I think, than ours, and each gave excellent music at guard-mounting and dress-parade. " Listen to the Mocking-bird" was the favorite air of the Virginians. We became intimate with " the Surgeons," and we had Capt. Willie Allan, the quartermaster of the First Virginia, and Major Bob ^Vheat (who had recovered from his wound), of the "Louisiana Tigers," besides other kindred spirits, for our coteries. We had a frame house transported from the outposts and fitted up for head-quarters, with a right royal fire- place of the old baronial hall fashion whereon one might roast an ox whole ; and many very delightful evenings did we pass in the "little white house on Salisbury Plains," as we called it. The sparkling wit, the song, the anec- THE WASHINGTON ARTILLERY. 65 dote, — accompanied by hot punch, that drove dull care away, and brought oblivion of the enow; the mud, and rain outside, — can we forget them? Never ! Allan, with his song of "Sally in our Alley," and the " Prisoner's Lament," — who was always " cussing hia eyes," and going " up Tyburn hill in a cart ; " Rosser, with his "Dragoon bold," and Garnett, with "The Captain with his Whiskers," accom- panied by a sly glance at the imaginary pretty girl behind the blinds, and the "Soldier's Dream;" Brewer, with his "Maryland, my Maryland!" — their voices rang out, awakening the echoes of the Blue Ridge. Moore was full of Irish song and story; his "JMr. McShane" and "Jacob and Esau " were inimitable ; while " Old Bob Wheat " would contribute a roaring chorus, and would at intervals prognosticate the future life, — "when, on the high bat- tlements of Heaven, George Washington would be officer of the day, and Bob Wheat officer of the guard." One day, when the snow was on the ground half a foot deep, we received a visit from Wheat and Major Cabell, chief quartermaster of the army. As they dismounted from their horses we observed a pair of new boots tied together at the tops, and flung over Wheat's saddle after the fashion of hostlers. They were made welcome before a roaring fire of hickory logs. After a little while, when they were thawed out. Wheat said, " Walton, I have a treat for you : please ask your servant to bring in those boots that hang on my horse." Was he going to present the Colonel with boots ? In came the boots ; they were remarkably heavy. "Now," said Wheat, "have you any glasses? If so, have them filled with snow." We had glasses. 66 THE WASHINGTON ARTILLERY. and they were, as requested, filled with snow ; then, to our surprise, he pulled out of each boot a bottle of cham- pagne. It was a surprise. Pop went the corks, and the sparkling fluid was poured into the snow-filled glasses. It was delicious, — the best champagne, we thought then, we had ever tasted. Almost daily we mounted, and made visits to diflTerent head-quarters ; and it is safe to say there never was such a sociable and agreeable set of officers and men assembled together as those of the army that fought at Manassas. We often welcomed to our fireside Gens. Longstreet, Sam Jones, Fitz Lee, J. E. B. Stuart, Capt. John Pel- ham, Col. Tom Ehett, and a host of others. At Gen. Johnston's head-quarters, in Centreville, where Rhett pre- sided as adjutant-general, we had some excellent suppers, after the " green cloth " had been removed, which was usually about the " witching hour of night." Upon one occasion quite a number of officers made a long ride to visit Col. Julian Harrison, of the cavalry, and spent a delightful evening. " The shades of night were falling fast " when we mounted and started for Centreville. The snow had fallen and the paths through the woods were obliterated ; but Gen. Sam Jones, who was supposed to be a good woodsman, took the lead. He was mounted on a gray steed and directed us to " follow the gray, " which we did, in Indian file ; but after proceeding a mile or so, he halted, and confessed himself at fault : he had evidently gone astray. Just then a light was seen, and we rode to- wards it "following the gray." It was a camp-fire of the Eighth Georgia regiment. THE WASHINGTON ARTILLERY. 67 The General inquired the way; the sentinel gaye the dkection. " All right ! " cried the General, " follow the gray ; " and away we went. After a while we saw a light again, and a lone sentinel. "What camp is this?" said the General. The answer came: "The Eighth Georgia." " The mischief it is," quoth the now puzzled General. " Which way to CentrevUle ? " "I told you before," replied the sentinel ; and again he gave the direction, and away we went, the General saying, " All right, now ; just follow the gray." We probably rode for more than an hour through the thick woods, the branches sometimes scraping our faces, — and, besides, the cold was not pleasant, — when we approached what seemed to be another firelight ; but, again, in answer to the General's question, came back the same reply, — " Eighth Georgia." We began to think this was becoming monotonous ; but just then an officer appeared and said, " Gentlemen, you are evidently lost. You have already stopped at this fire three or four times. I am the adjutant of this regiment, and the Colonel sends his compliments and invites you to alight, and come into his tent and warm up." We did not wait for a second invitation, but dismounted at once, and Col. " Dignity Smith " gave us a hearty welcome and hot punch, after having a laugh at our mishaps. It was in the small hours of the night when we again started for our objective point, Centreville, with a guide furnished by the Colonel, and we sent the gray in disgrace to the rear. But Gen. Jones for a long time after was sure to be reminded of' "following the gray." On the 21st of December Stuart had a brisk fight at 68 TBE WASSmCTON ARTILLERY. Drainsville with a body of the enemy. He and they were both out with foraging parties and met. Stuart engaged the enemy until his trains were safe, and then fell back with his escort. "We were ordered to begin building winter quarters, and selected Blackburn's ford, on the ground which the enemy occupied on the 18th July, 1861. The year ended sadly for the Battahon, for we were called upon to record the death of Hubert Chambers, one of the three brothers of the First company, who died of typhoid fever in camp. He was much beloved for his quiet and genial nature, and had gained the admiration and esteem of his comrades for his behavior on the fields of the 18th and 21st of July. On the 31st of December these comrades and brothers bore him to a young pati-iot's grave. We buried him with all military honors, and his body rested one day in a temporary grave on the battle-field of BuU Eun, and was then forwarded to his relations in the far South. All hands were now hard at work building winter quar- ters, and the ring of the axes and falling of trees was heard the livelong day. The winter camp was laid out with great regularity, each company having its street, only, instead of canvas tents, log huts are substituted. The " Sunday soldiers " had learned to handle the axe with skill, as well as their cannon. Through the kindness of the depot quartermaster. Col. Fisher, we were supplied with planks for roofing, window sash and glass, and a lock and door knobs for each hut. Each mess had its habitation, and over the doors its appella- tion, — the " Growlers," the " Howlers," the " Pilgrims," THE 'WASHINGTON ARTILLERY. 69 " Buzzard Eoost,"" Sans Souci,""No. 4 Carondelet," etc. , etc. The officers had double cabins at right angles with the streets. In front of the camp were the stables for our horses, a double line running across the whole front of the camp. These had plank roofs, and the sides were filled in with brush, to temper the wind to the animals. In front of all, our guns were parked, and snugly stored under tarpaulins to protect them from snow and rain. Near by we had the " Ohasseurs-a-pied" and the "Dixie" battery of artillery, also in huts. We were now settled down for an almost Arctic winter , and , with big fires roaring all the time in the big mud fireplaces, killed time as best we could with snowballing, chess, euchre, and a little poker. We have named our camp " Waltonville," out of compli- ment to the Colonel of the Battalion. 70 THE WASHINGTON ARTILLERY. CHAPTEE IV. JANUARY, 1862. Contributions to Charleston Sufferers. — Mardi Gras in Camp. — Dixie Artillery and Chasseurs-a-pied. — The " Waltonville "War Cry." — Snow-balling. — Beauregard Ordered South.- — Attached to Longstreet's Division. — Winter Quarters Abandoned. —On tlie March. — Orange Court-house. — Dancing Club. — Eichmond Peninsula. — Williamsburg. — Yorktown. — Richmond. — Camp at Elakey's Mill-pond. —McClellan Investing the City. THE Battalion learned with regret of the great fire at Charleston, S.C., and the distress of the people caused thereby, and subscribed for the .relief fund the following amounts, to be deducted from the forthcoming pay-rolls. A general order was issued to the army, asking aid, and this was our reply : — Head-quaeters Washington Artillery, Jan. 4, 1862. Major W. L. Cabell, Chief Quartermaster, Depariment of Northern Virginia : — Major, — Responding to the suggestion contained in the circular of Maj. Thos. G. Rhett, A.A.G., A. P., that a collection be made for the relief of the sufferers by the late fire in Charleston, S.C, I have the honor to report to you, as recommended, the following amounts con- tributed by the Battalion AVashington Artillery : — Pield and staff $40 00 Pirst Company 328 50 Second " 600 00 TRE WASHINOTON ARTILLERY. 71 Third Company ^151 jg Fourtli " 379 50 $1,499 16 Col. Thoa. Jordan, A.A.G 20 00 $1,519 16 Of which amount I hand you, enclosed, $75 in cash and $1,444.16 subscribed, to be deducted from next pay-roll by the quarter-master, who has been furnished with a list of the subscribers. I am. Major, Tour obedient servant, J. B. WALTON, Colonel Commanding. Col. Walton and some of the company officers, having obtained leave of absence, left us for Nfew Orleans, Capt. Eshleman, of the Fourth company, being in command of the Battalion and camp. Before moving from " Camp Hollins " to " Waltonville " we obtained from the quartermaster's department, Rich- mond, overcoats for the men, and received a great bale of blankets from the ladies of New Orleans. From their variety and quality it was easily seen that the ladies had stripped their own beds that the boys should be comfort- able. All praise and honor to these noble women ! Now all were talking about how we should celebrate " Mardi Gras," for we did not mean to let the carnival go by without paying it due respect ; it would remind us of home, if such reminder were necessary. It was determined that we should give a grand fancy and masked ball, a grand supper, and such other " diver- tisements " as the occasion demanded. 72 THE WASHINGTON ARTILLERY. The " Chasseurs " ^ and the Dixie Artillery, now our neighbors, the latter commanded by Lieut. W. H. Crisp, our histrionic friend of yore, were to participate. The day at last came, and, in spite of short rations and of cold, the ball was given, and never did more gayety pre- vail in any assembly, whether under the " gilded panels of a palace " or the " green foliage of a kingly park." Ladies, personated by our youngest fellows, and showing right pretty arms and necks, were there with their girlish chat and their coquettish flirtations ; and under improvised masks and dominos one might believe they were the genuine article from our celebrated " St. Louis " and " Odd Fellows' balls." The most ludicrous and outlandish costumes were there in all the variety that the most splendid costumer, during the carnival, could have supplied. iLisT OF Officeks Battalion " Chasseuks-a-Pied." Major, Hemy St. Paul. Adjutant, J. W. Sanders. Co. A. — " Chasseurs-a-pied. Lieutenant Commanding, Edgard Macoin. Second Lieutenant, Charles M. Rene. " " D. P. ■White. Co. B. — " Catahoula Gverillas.'' Captain, I. W. Bulioup. First Lieutenant, S. W. Spencer. Second Lieutenant, AV. Guss. I. H. Dales. Co. 0. — " Crescent Blues." Captain, I. McG. Good^vyn. First Lieutenant, G. AV. Crump. Second Lieutenant, V. G. De I'lsle. TITE WASBINOTOK ARTILLERY. 73 Corporal Bob Many was so pretty and girlish with his plump neck and rounded arms that he was voted the "belle of the ball," and had a train of admirers following him the whole evening. The boys actually wanted to hug him, but the floor committee wouldn't permit such infractions. The band, led by Gessner, was discoursing, now the sweetest, now the most warlike, music, during the supper. Capt. Eshleman presided. And the supper ! — a genu- ine Virginia shoulder, flanked by ponderous corn-meal cakes. And the party ! There was Rosser and Dearing, Miller, Squires, McG. Goodwyn, Edgar Macoin, Spen- cer, and Adjt. Sanders of St. Paul's Battalion, whose com- mander, the major, sat at Eshleman's right. And as we sat chatting of the monotony of camp-life, citing the methods of the French in the Crimea, who man- aged to amuse themselves with their theatres, almost every corps having its own daily bulletin, to which all could contribute, Montgomery ("Bliffkins") proposed that we should start a paper. The idea was hailed with enthusi- asm, and Major St. Paul was elected "editor-in-chief," and a solemn pledge was given that the first number should be issued on the following Saturday. A bottle of whiskey was passed around and all drank to its success. In honor of Colonel Walton it was to be called the " Waltonville AVar-cry, — a national paper issued occasionally." In due time the " War Cry " appeared. It was written on foolscap, the sheets being fastened together top and bot- tom, and rolled on a stick. It was spicy in the extreme, and was passed around, causing much amusement. 74 TUS WASEmOTON' ARTILLERY. But alas for the plans of men ! ,0n the Sd of March the first paper appeared, but, before the next Saturday, marching orders came, and the second number was never issued. Gen. McClellan was responsible for this loss and the destruction of the printing materials, namely, half a bottle of ink and one steel pen. Meanwhile Gen. Beauregard had been ordered south and Gen. Joe Johnston was left in command, and the TTashington Artillery was by his order attached to Gen. Longstreet's division. At this time the army near Manassas numbered only about 25,000 men, and it was said jNIcClellan was massino" o 100,000 men near TTashington. On INIarch 6 preparations were begun to take leave of winter quarters and "seek pastures new." We were not sorry to go, for the country had been completely eaten up. TVe were ordered not to set fire to the huts, because ilcCleUan, perceiving the smoke, might come on to see what was the matter, and Gen. Johnston rather pre- ferred to take " French leave " and glide away modestly. Our guns were brought from under cover and put in order for the march. Quartermasters' stores were selected to fill the wagons and the remainder were destroyed. It was great fun to start a barrel of flour from the top of the steep banks of Bull Bun and see it bounce to the bottom, covering the surrounding rocks and trees with snow-like whiteness. When the enemy came into possession of " Waltonville " they found the cabins so well constructed that it was dig- nified by being converted into a large commissary depot. THE WASHINGTON ARTILLERY. 75 McClellan fell heir to a good many of our yaluabks that we were compelled to leave behind, especially the batteries of " Quaker guns " in the forts of Centreville. Much good may they do him ! At last the garrison flag was lowered for the last time, and a sanguinary black flag run up in its place, and we hauled out on the Warrenton turnpike to join the column of march en route to the Eapidan. Stuart brought up the rear, and McClellan followed a, few miles, cautiously, to see that Johnston was surely off. After an uneventful march of one hundred miles the Battalion reached Orange Court-house, and pitched tents on Terrill's farm, in a charming grove of pines. But in lack of incident the daily march and bivouac were inspirit- ing. The rumbling of the guns on the smooth macadam road, the rattling of the harness, the laughter and jokes of the boys as they tramped along were decidedly pleasant after a winter in log huts and over smoky fires. And then we had again the " square meals," which the boys picked up in this new and undiscovered country, where the straggler hath not been " heard in the land," with his plaintive "Please, mam, can't you give a poor soldier a little snack, — I'm so hungry, — I don't know where I'm going to sleep to-night." The Battalion contained at least one skil- ful "pirooter" (forager), who never wanted a dinner, but only a " snack." Upon one occasion, when he had made a detour of a few miles to head off" the Battalion, he came to a farm-house, upon the gallery of which he sighted a party of officers. He flanked them and made for the kitchen, where he found the " lady of the house " up to her 76 THE WASHINGTON- ARTILLERY. elbows cooking dinner for the officers. "Oh, my ! " said M -, " I don't want a dinner, madam, not a bit of it. Just a little ' snack ' will do, — half a chicken, a ' pone ' of corn-bread, some ham, and a hard-boiled egg, if you have one, that's all — '^ only a snack.'" He got it, and, passing tbe officers on the gallery, he pulled away at his half-chicken and half a foot of ham, and, being observed, M 's " snack " was after that day a by-word in the command, — " only a snack, madam ! " While at Orane:e Court-house we discovered that the town was plethoric, with pretty girls, so we organized a dancing club at the tavern, and our band and that of the First Virginia furnished the music. The dancing men were as follows : Gen. A. P. Hill (just promoted from Colonel), Col. P. T. Moore, Capt. Allan, Dr. Maury and Adjt. Palmer of the First Virginia ; Col. Williams of the Seventh Virginia, Maj. Sam Mitchell, Capts. G. M. Sorrel, Manning, Fairfax, and Goree of Gen. Longstreet's staff, Dr. J. S. D. CuUen, also of the staff; Capts. Eshleman, and Eosser, Lieuts. Owen, Garnett, Dearing, Brewer, Battles, Capt. Miller and Dr. Drew, of the Washington Artillery. Our little hops at the old-time tavern were decidedly delightful, and again hearts were thrown around loosely and vows and hair exchanged, the latter done up in blue ribbon. But all things have an end somewhere ; so marching orders came one bright Sunday morning, the 6th April, when all were in church, and we galloped away, bidding the dear girls an affectionate "adieu." We moved out of camp at 8 P.M., and marched down TEE WASHINGTON ARTILLERY. 77 the plank road,' and it was 3 A.M. before we were in- structed to go into bivouac. It was rumored that Mc- Clellan was transferring his army to Fredericksburg, and we were heading in that direction. On the 7th April we were halted all day in the road, and it was snowing and sleet- ing ; we had no wood for fires, and no shelter, and, to cap the climax, no rations ; so we had anything but a pleasant time of it. On the 8th and 9th, having retraced our steps, we were put on mud roads en route for Louisa Court-house, the snow and sleet still falling, and the mud axle deep. Men and horses suffered terribly. Miller's heavy 24-pounders were almost out of sight in the snow and mud, and Lieut. Apps, with one gun, stuck fast. Finally they gave up, and took possession of a huge tobacco barn, and built immense fires to warm up. The First, Second, and part of the Fourth companies, pressed on and bivouacked in a church at Thorn Hill. This had been a regular " Valley Forge " day, and we could realize what our " Rebel " forefathers may have suffered in the first Revolution. On the 10th the Battalion reached Louisa Court-house, where we found Col. Walton and Lieut. Norcom at the tavern, having just arrived from New Orleans. The army was being transferred to Richmond, and on the 13th we again pitched our tents near that city. McClellan had gone to Yorktown to try and get in by the " back door " as it were. On the 20th the guns and horses were embarked on transports on the James river, bound for the peninsula. The wharf at which we embarked was just opposite the 78 THE WASHINGTON ARTILLERY. rear of the Libby prison, and the Federal officers watched our movements with interest, saying, " Well, never mind ; McClellan will be here in two weeks, and take Kich- mond, and let us all out." On the 21st we arrived at King's wharf and disembarked the command, and before a camp could be pitched we M'cre treated to a heavy rain-storm, that drenched all hands completely. On the 23d the Battalion was reported to Gen. Longstreet at Lee's farm-house. McClellan had laid siege to Yorktown, and, now that our whole army was concentrated, the question seemed to be, "What shall be done with it? " Gen. Magruder had been deceiving the enemy here for some time ; having but a small force, he had, by marching and countermarching from point to point, so bewildered the enemy as to his strength that they had magnified it fourfold. On the 25th the Battalion marched from Blow's mills to Williamsburg, leaving the Second company, under Capt. Eosser, in front of Yorktown, and on the 2d of May, while in bivouac at Burnt Ordinary, we received news of the fall of New Orleans and its occupation by Gen. Butler. Thus we were cut off from friends and home, and left here in Virginia, a band of orphans, as it were. On the 4th of May our troops evacuated Yorktown, on account of some evidences of McClellan's getting on our flank, by the way of York river, and placing himself be- tween our army and Richmond. The enemy shelled Yorktown for more than an hour after our people left, and then marched in and took possession. The army fell back towards Richmond, the enemy fol- lowing. THE WASHINGTON ARTILLERY. 79 On the 5th the enemy attacked our rear-guard, under Longstreet, and was defeated, losing a battery of artillery, and the march was resumed. On the 6th the enemy renewed the pursuit, and some of our infantry of Gen. D. R. Jones's command were ordered back; but, on account of the bad condition of roads, the artillery remained in bivouac, in a beautiful pine grove, where there was a spring of cool, clear water, and we had a good rest. On May 7 we received an order from Gen. Jones to "move forward," crossing the Chickahominy at Long Bridge. This order was rather indefinite as to the distance to be marched ; but, in the absence of further instruction, we con- tinued on until the 8th, when, after a march of twenty- three miles, made in six hours, we went into camp at Blakey's mill-pond, two miles from Richmond, leaving the army away in the rear. This was a rapid march, but the boys made it without much evidence of fatigue. We reported our arrival in Richmond to Gen. R. E, Lee, who was surprised to see us, as our coming was unlocked for. We had presumed too much upon the indefinite order of Gen. Jones, and perhaps a slight desire to get to Richmond had its influence upon our inter- pretation of it. However, here we were, and Gen. Lee instructed us to be ready to march again at any moment. Blakey's mill-pond was a delightful camping-ground, and bordered by a grove of large fine trees. It was only a short ride to Richmond, and we visited the city frequently to see the friends whose acquaintance we made when we halted there in June of last year. 80 THE WASHINGTON ARTILLERY. We enjoyed promenading the Main street, gazing into the shop-windows, and lounging about the " Spottswood Hotel," rigged in our swell uniforms, and forgetting Bull Run and Manassas. On the 13th May the enemy's gun-boats were reported coming up the James river, and this created quite an alarm among the good people of the city. Gen. Lee sent for a battery to go to Drewry's Bluff to aid in repel- ling an attack, and Capt. Miller, Third company, with his 24-pounder howitzers, w-as sent off upon this duty."^ On the 14th Gen. Lee ordered the Battalion to report to Gen. Jo Johnston on the Chickahominy, which order was immediately obeyed. Capt. Miller joined us upon the road with his battery, the iron-clads of the enemy having been beaten off by the guns at Drewry's Bluff. The Battalion returned on the 17th May to Blakey's mill-pond, and went into camp again. The entire army was now concentrated about Eichmond, and McClellan had invested the city. Our camp was delightfully pitched, and we received many visitors. Among them were our friends " the sur- geons." Dr. Cullen had become medical director of ' Richmond, May 13, 1862. Col. Walton, Washington Artillery : — If 3'ou have a light hatteiy that you think -will be efficient on the banlis of the river, 1 wisli you to send it on the left bank, either to Chapin's BhifTor opposite the obstructions at Warwick's Bar, to retard the ascent of the enemy's gun- boats said to have arrived at City Point. The batteiy must select concealed positions, not near residences, and en- deavor to cripple and destroy the wooden boats, and drive from dect the men on the iron boats. Veiy respectfully, E. E. Lee. THE WASHINGTON ARTILLERY. ■ 81 Longstreet's corps, and Drs. Maury and Barksdale were associated with him. Col. P. T. Moore, of the First Vir- ginia, also rode out often, and we enjoyed their hospitality at their homes in Richmond. McClellan had begun a regular siege, and " spades were trumps ; " meanwhile the Battalion had nothing to do but refit and enjoy itself. 82 THE WASHING TOy ARTILLERY. CHAPTER V. FIGHTING NEAR RICHMOND. Seven Pines. — Pair Oaks. — Dr. Garnett's. — Gen. K. E. Lee. — Gen. Johnston wounded. — Seven Days' Battle around Richmond. — Siege of Richmond raised. — "Change of Base." — McClellan at Harrison's Landing. — Flag of Truce. — Exchange of Prisoners at Aiken's Landing. ON May 31 McClellan placed two corps of his army on the Richmond bank of tlie Chickahominy, and heavy rains having ev^rollen that river until it had over- flowed its banks and cut off these troops from other por- tions of his army, Gen. Johnston determined to attack him •at Seven Pines or Fair Oaks. Gen. Longstreet com- manded the Confederate right, and attacked on the Williamsburg road. The fighting was fierce and desper- ; ate, and we could hear from our camp the furious fusillade. We mounted our horses and rode out to see what was going on. Of course all sorts of rumors were afloat. That the affair was a very serious one we could see from the number of wounded that were cominsr in and the lono' o a lines of prisoners being escorted to the rear under guard. We learned that at Seven Pines the enemy, under Gen. Casey, were attacked and routed. In front of his position large trees had been cut down to form an abatis, through which our men had to climb and crawl. We met " Bliffkins," who reported that our old friends, the Chasseur s-a-pied, had been engaged and had been roughly TEE WASHINGTON AUTILLERY. 83 handled, McGoodwyn wounded and Edgar Macoin killed. We met Col. Coppens, of the New Orleans Zouave Battal- ion, coming out in an ambulance, badly wounded, and his ted breeches rather the worse for the mud he had fallen into. Dearing, who had lately been put in command of a battery, had been in and lost very heavily in men and horses. There was a battery of four Napoleons lately belonging to the enemy stuck in the mud and abandoned on the field. " Bliffkins " was sent to bring up Capt. Buck Miller and his horses to haul off the prizes. Miller soon accomplished the task, and was allowed to keep them for his battery, turning in to the ordnance department his clumsy 24- pounder howitzers. By a singular coincidence the captured battery had been commanded in the Federal service by a Capt. Miller. The " boys " declared the Federal was a brother of our Miller, and the leaving of the guns behind was only an evidence of a "brotherly esteem and regard." At about 7 o'clock in the evening the army had the. misfortune to lose its chief, Gen. Johnston being stricken down by a severe wound, and the command devolved upon Gen. G. "W". Smith, the next in rank.' Early on the 1st of June Gen. Pickett engaged a body of the enemy and drove him from the field, and our army ' . . . The Union army (lost) upwards of 5,000. But a severer loss befell the Confederates ... for the able chief of the army of Northern Virginia was stricken down with a severe hurt. Preparations for withdrawal were actively pushed forward during the night, but, through some accidental circumstance a portion of Sumner's line having become engaged on the morning of the 1st of June, there ensued an encounter of some severity, which lasted two or three hours." — Army of the Potomac. SWINTON. 84 TEE WASHINGTON ARTILLERY. held the ground all dav not molested by the enemy. Gen. Lee was assigned to the command of the army on the same day, and by his order the troops were withdrawn to their camps near Richmond. When Gen. Casey's troops were driven in on the 31st ult.,afine head-quarters ambulance was captured, — a two- seated, covered vehicle, with outside seat for the driver. It was marked upon the sides in gilt letters, "Second Rhode Island Regiment." It was appropriated by " the surgeons," and by them presented to Col. Walton. It accompanied the Battalion upon all of its marches during the war, and was of great service. On June 6 Capt. Squires, witli the First company at Dr. Garnett's farm, on the Chickahominy, together with the Maryland Battery, Capt. Snowden Andrews, and some guns of Col. Stephen D. Lee's artillery battalion, engaged the enemy's batteries across the river at New bridge. The cannonading cointinued two hours, and the snemy withdrew his batteries, losing one caisson (exploded) and several horses and men killed. Our loss was two men in Andrews's battery wounded, and two horses killed. In the evening Squires shelled a regiment of the enemy, who were engaged in building a pontoon bridge across the river below Dr. Garnett's, scattering them. The battery then took position near Dr. Garnett's residence, and opened fire upon a house occupied by Federal sharp-shooters, dis- tance about six hundred yards. The shells drove the enemy out, but failed to set fire to the house. Lieut. E. Owen volunteered to head a party to burn the house. A dozen of the Eighteenth Mississippi regiment volunteered THE WASHINOTON ARTILLERY. 85 to accompany him,, and they started at a double-quick. Lieut. Owen crept through a window and fired the stair- case, and the building was soon reduced to ashes, nothing remaining except the chimneys. The adventurous party returned safely, not having been fired upon, although in close proximity to the enemy's lines. For three weeks the Battalion spent the time pleasantly enough in camp, — in the city and riding about the lines. Gen. Jeb. Stuart, with his cavalry, took an extended ride around McClellan's army, and returned safely, and Gen. Lee was watching the enemy closely. One day Gen. Longstreet visited our camp, accompanied by his staff, and announced to Col. Walton that he had appointed him " chief of artillery " of his right wing of the army, and that the " Washington Artillery" would be his reserve artillery, reporting directly to him and receiving its orders from him. We were pleased with this arrangement.^ Col. Walton was, however, to retain command of the Battalion. Mean- while Gen. McClellan made but a slow advance upon Richmond, seemingly satisfied with throwing up dirt. Capt. Eosser, with the Second company, had been out with Stuart, and had been wounded in the arm during a skirmish at Mechanicsville across the Chickahominy. Upon ^ Head-quabters Kight "Wing, neak Richmond, June 20, 1862. Genekal Orders, 'So. 28 : — Col. J. B. Walton, of the Battalion Washington Artilleiy, having reported for duty with this command, is announced as chief of artillery. He will be obeyed and respected accordingly. By command of Major-Gen. Longstreet. G. M. SORKEi, A.A. a. 86 THE ^^AsmsoToy artillery. liis recovery he was promoted to a majority in tlie artillery service at large, and soon afterwards transferred to the cavalry and to the command of the Fifth Virginia cavalry reoriment. Before the war closed he reached the rank of o major-general and was greatly distinguished. On the 26th of June orders were received for the Bat- talion to move out of its camp and halt upon the Meehan- icsville road,^ and, everything being in readiness for action, we marched, and halted at a farm-house directly upon the turnpike. Lee was about to pounce upon McClellan. Gen. A. P. HiU's division rested, stretched along the Meadow Bridsre road. Longstreet's division was on the ilechanicsville road. At a dwelling on the right of the road the g-eneral officers and their staffs were congregated, their horses tied to the trees and fences. A big movement was evidently on foot, and all were await- ing the word from Gen. Lee to begin. Some said they were waiting to hear from Jackson, who was expected from the valley to strike the enemy's right when Hill and Long- street attack. At 3 P.M. there was a great stir, and Hill and Longstreet mounted their horses, and staff officers dashed alons the lines of the divisions, up and down the roads, carrying orders to ' Head-qhabters Losgstrzet's Corps, June 26, 1862. Colonel : — The commanding general directs me to write you to move oat until the head of yooi' column reaches the Mechanicsville turnpike. I am. Colonel, with great respect, jour most ohedient John W. Fairfax, A.A. and Jnsp. General. Col. ■Walto:n, Chief o/ Artillery, Right Wing, A. S. Va. TSE WASHINGTON- ARTILLERY. 87 the brigade commanders. The loud voices of the officers could be heard calling, " 'tention ! 'tention ! Fall in, men, fall in ! " The columns were quickly formed and moved forward, the canteens rattling and the company officers crying, " Close up ! close up ! " Across the Meadow Bridge Hill's men went; at a swing- ing pace, and into the woods on the other shore. Almost instantly the crack of the rifles of the skirmishers was heard, and the gallant fellows , who but a few minutes ago were resting by the roadside, were engaged in deadly conffict. A. P. Hill having crossed and unmasked the Mechanics- ville Bridge, Longstreet and D. H. Hill followed with their fine divisions over the bridge. Longstreet turned to the right and followed along the banks of the stream. D. H. Hill went to the support of A. P. Hill, and now the artillery opened its brazen tongues and the battle had begun. Lee had "let slip the dogs of war" upon McClellan's right, and we had it "a Voutrance." All day long the Battalion remained in the road in re- serve. The boys were impatient to go ahead, but must await orders. The roar of battle continued unceasingly. Wounded men were carried by in ambulances, and many prisoners passed under guard ; among the latter a goodly delegation of the Pennsylvania " Buck-tail Eangers." The battle continued long into the night ; our men said to be doing well. The Battalion bivouacked on the road- side. The roar of battle began at early dawn on the 27th, with 88 THE WASHINGTON ARTILLERY. artillery and musketry. We were still in reserve. The sound of the conflict was moving away from us. Old "Stonewall" was up, and was pounding away upon the enemy's right. We bivouacked another night upon the road. At 9.30, on the morning of the 28th, orders were re- ceived from Gen. Longstreet to move the Battalion to the Mechanicsville Bridge.^ "Boots and saddles " were sounded, and we were off, all in fine spirits, glad to be in motion. The First and Third companies were ordered to cross the Chickahominy to report' to Gen. Longstreet upon the field. The Second and Fourth companies bivouacked near the bridge. Desperate fighting yesterday, and the enemy driven beyond the Chickahominy near New Bridge. At 9 A.M., on the 29th, the Second and Fourth com- ^ Head-quaetees, June 28, 1862, 8 A.M. Colonel : — Please move two of your batteries by the Mechanicsvflle Bridge and road, to report to me on this road. Very respectfully, J. LONGSTEEET, Major-General Commanding. Colonel Wai-ton, Commander Artillery : — T sent a messapfe to put your command on the New Bridge road. You had better keep it on the Mechanicsville road near the bridge, and on the Richmond side of the Chickahominy. Head-quaetees, June 28, 1862. Colonel : — You will please send your extra horses and some cannoneers to take ofi the Yankee guns captured. By order of the commanding General. With great respect, your obedient servant, Jno. "W. Faiepax, A.A. and Insp. Gen. Col. Walton, Chief of Artillery. THE WASSmOTON ARTILLERY. 89 panies were ordered to the Williamsburg road.^ The First and Third companies joined them. McClellan was falling rapidly back to the James river, our forces pressing closely after him. At 5 P.M. the Battalion marched down the Darbytown road, following closely the rear of Longstreet's division. That night we bivouacked in the dark and in a pelting rain. On the 30th we marched at 6 A.M., and, passing Longstreet's troops, halted by the roadside and awaited orders. "By particular request" we outraged military etiquette, and requested Longstreet to "put us in some- where." He said "he would try to do so." The boys did not fancy being in reserve. In the afternoon Long- street, with his own and Magruder's division, passed by us going to the front. I saw my old friend, Lieut. Eugene Janin, marching with his company (C, Tenth Louisiana regiment). The troops that passed us fought the battle of " Frazier's farm " that evening. All day long on the 1st of July, we remained in bivouac, listening to the roar of battle at " Malvern Hill." " Will Longstreet send for us to-day?" is asked on all sides. 1 The following orders wei-e received dui-ing to-day : — Heab-qitakteks, June 29, 1862. CoLONEi.: The General directs that you move your two batteries back towards Richmond in front of redoubt No. 3. Your other two will be sent in this morning. Very respectfully, P. T. Maotjing, A.D.O. Col. Walton, Chief of Artillery. Longstkeet's Head-quaktees, June 29, 1862. CoLOifEL : — The Major-general commanding directs that you park your artillery where it is now and be ready to move early in the morning. Very respectfully, G. M. SoKBEL, A.A. General. ■ Col. WAiTON, Chief of Artillery. 90 THE WASHINGTON ARTILLERY. The guns are " in park," and in perfect order. The horses are partially harnessed, and the boys, without exception, have their traps ready for a quick move ; but the day wears on ; the roar and pounding at Malvern continue ; we are three or four miles away. We are becoming indifferent, from inaction, and the meal termed dinner is despatched, and we spread our blankets upon the ground, just to take "forty winks." But at 5 P.^NI. a courier comes galloping down the road. Is he looking for us? He turns into the field ; he has a despatch in his hand. The boys are on their feet in an instant. " Orders ! orders ! " they call to one another. The courier draws rein. " Is this the Washington ArtUlery?" he asks. "Yes! yes!" ciy a hundred voices. "Wliere is Col. Walton?" asks the cornier. " Over there, by that ambulance," is the reply. He puts spurs to his steed, and draws up at head- quarters. " Col. Walton, despatch from Gen. Longstreet," and hands him a small scrap of paper without envelope, and is off like a flash. Frank, the bugler, has lifted his bugle almost to his lips. The boys look at the group at head-quarters anxiously ; drivers are quietly arranging their harness upon their teams. It is but a moment of suspense ; it seems an age. The despatch reads : — HeAD-QDAETEKS, BATTLE-FrELD, July 1st, 1862. Colonel: — The general directs that you move the "Washington Artillery " down as soon as possible. Yours, etc., P. T. MANNING, Major and Ordnance Officer. To Cot. Walton, Chief of Artillery. TMJ31 WASHINGTON ARTILLERY. 91 Instantly comes the order for " Boots and Saddles," and the welcome notes from the bugle are given tongue. The boys yell with delight; the quiet bivouac is changed as if by a magician's touch ; all is hurrying to and fro. But few moments pass, and the Colonel's loud-voiced order comes : " 'Tention ! Drivers, prepare to mount. Mount ! " "Cannoneers, mount!" "Column, forwa-r-r-rd ! " And the Battalion moves out into the road towards the battle- field. This is a supreme moment in the history of the Wash- ington Artillery, — the first time it ever ^ moved in full armament, with its four batteries, to the battle-field. As we stretch out upon the road the Colonel orders, "Bat- talion, trot, march ! " The drivers sling their strong whips and the teams break into a brisk trot, and away we go, with the carriages rumbling, the harness rattling, and the iron hoofs of the horses striking fire from the flinty road. What a glorious sight it is ! See the sixteen guns ! What beauties ! the finest in the world, — rifles and Napo- leons taken from the enemy at Manassas and Seven Pines. Sixteen caissons, — thirty-two .carriages in all, — nearly three hundred men and two hundred horses. What a sight to gladden a soldier's eye ! In front of all rides the Colonel, on his black stallion, " Eebel ; " a pace behind rides the adjutant ; then the chief bugler, and the guidon-bearer, carrying the little scarlet banner with its blue cross, the gift of Constance Carey, fashioned from her own gown. Just behind come the batteries, the captains riding in front of each, — Squires with the First, Richardson with the Second, Miller with the Third, and Eshleman with the 92 THE WASEINOTON- ARTILLERY. Fourth, the lieutenants on the flanks, the sergeants beside their teams. The officers are in full rig, with sabre and pistol. The " Washington Artillery " has at last given proof of perfection, and evinces the discipline imparted by the commander. It is complete ; it is perfect in all- its parts. Now could be realized its terrible power for battle, its capability of meeting its like in the armies of the world. The dust is fearful, and the boys are covered with it, as we trot along uphill and downhill ; no drawing of rein, but straining ojir eyes in the direction of the smoke curling above the pines, while our ears take in the sounds of bat- tle. As we reach the level ground the bugler sounds the "Gallop." We are approaching the outskirts of the field; the customary sights greet our eyes : the dead, wounded, and the dying, the field-hospitals, the ambulances, and the ordnance-wagons. We pass a battery at the side of the road ; it is our old friends, the "Dixies," of Waltonville ; they have been in the fight and are crippled; they recognize us, and three cheers are given for the "■ Washington Artillery," with a yell. The Colonel touches his cap. We rattle past a brigade of Texans, and again we are cheered. It makes our hearts leap to hear them. " Here's the ' Washington ^Artillery!' Bully for the ' Washington Artillery ! ' Go in, boys ! Hurrah for Longstreet's reserve ! Now we'll have hell ! " The boys take it all in, and their nerves are strung to the utmost, lips compressed, and eyes flashing bright and fierce as those of the " Tiger," the noble emblem of the corps, about to spring upon its prey. THE WASIimOTON ARTILLERY. 93 There on the left of the road is our surgeon friend, Cullen, in a group of officers. He must know where Long-street is. The column is halted. Cullen, in his cheery voice cries out, "How are you, Walton? How are you, Adjutant? How magnificent the Battalion is to-day! You're grand." ""Where's Longsti-eet ? " tlie Colonel asks. "On the hill to the left," is the reply. "Adjutant, go forward and report ; we will wait here ! " It is now almost dai-k, — when I find the General, it is quite so. He says, " We have done all we can to-day ; will need you to-morrow. Pai-k your guns in the field alongside of tlie road." It was a great disappointment to us all, but no fault of GUI'S that we were not " put in." A few shells whistled over our heads after we had parked, so we were under fire ; and that was some con- solation, altliough tlie boys hardly thought so, and growled outrageously. July 2d. — Slept in a fence-corner last night. A field- hospital was near by, and the groans and cries of the wounded kept us from sleeping ranch, although tired out. As usual, after heavy cannonading, it rained. The little camp-fire, where our "major-domo" (who had come up with the " Second Rhode Island ") was cooking the break- fast, had a hard struggle for life. The Battalion was ordered to march, and to follow liOngstreet's division. We passed over the battle-field of yesterday. The dead were lying thickly around. The enemy had the crest of ^Malvern Hill covered with two tiers of guns, and the gun-boats in the Jiunes 94 THE WASBINGTON' ARTILLERY. river protected Kis flanks with heavy pieces. We saw several of his big shells unexploded ; the boys called them "lamp-posts," for they were apparently as large. Our troops had been expected to drive him from the crest, but, by some mischance, regiments were put in to do the work of brigades, and consequently were cut to pieces in detail. The Tenth Louisiana regiment, under Col. Eugene Waggaman, made a most gallant charge, fought their way into the batteries, and fell, or were captured among the guns. Col. Waggaman was taken prisoner, after he had defended himself like a hero. His sword had been wielded by his father at the battle of New Orleans, and was returned to the Colonel by its gallant captor after the war ended. The Third Alabama was also much cut up amongst the enemy's guns. The pine thicket we marched through to reach the field was cut up into " toothpicks " by solid shot, and at the edge of the field we saw a battery of ours knocked out of shape, and were informed it was done in two minutes. We would have had a hot time of it had we been put in yesterday ; and one is made to reflect upon the fact that, after all, it is a good thing to wait for orders, — patiently. McClellan had continued his flight to the James river. Lee was again pursuing. On the road we passed the "Louisiana brigade," and saw many old friends in the Seventh Louisiana, — Harper, Flower, and others. Old " Stonewall " passed, and recognized our cheers by lift- ing his old, faded cap. We bivouacked in the rain near the Poindexter House, where Lee had his head-quarters. President Davis rode by us to-day, and was loudly cheered TEE WASEINOTON ARTILLERY. 95 by the troops. He wore a Mexican "serape," to keep off the rain, which was falling. He was constantly with the troops, and getting himself under fire more than he ought. On July 3d McClellan found shelter under cover of his gun-boats in James river. Unfortunately for us, but fortunately for the enemy^ Stuart pushed his cavalry too far in pursuit, opening Pelham's guns from elevated ground which commanded the whole position of the enemy where his troops were massed. McClellan at once detected the importance of getting possession of the ground occupied by Stuart, and attacked him in large force, driving him off and fortifying the position. Our infantry was too far away to take advantage of Stuart's movement. We biv- ouacked on Waterloo farm. On the 6th of July Capt. Squires, with the First com- pany, accompanied Col. S. D. Lee below McClellan's position, and fired into the enemy's transports, doing con- siderable damage. As it was now impossible to inflict more damage upon the enemy the bulk of the army was with- drawn to Richmond. On the 12th of July we were all in camp again on Almond creek, near Richmond, and all the artillery of the First corps was there massed. We called it " Camp Long- street." We again enjoyed the gay society of Richmond. Our camp was visited daily by ladies and their escorts. A large number of wounded officers captured during the seven days' battles were to be exchanged, under the direction of. our friends, "the surgeons," and a member of Gen. Longstreet's staff. Dr. Cullen invited us to join the 96 TEE WASHINGTON- ARTILLERY. party, and with him we visited the " Libby prison." While passing through one of the wards I was hailed by a wounded officer, and, going to his cot, I failed to recognize him. He said, " Why, don't you know your old secretary of the 'Prairie Shooting Club' (an old-time institution in the West), Stanhope?" Of course I did, and was glad to meet my old friend even under these peculiar circumstances. I told him my mission, and, at his solicitation, had him put on Cullen's list for exchange. He was made happy at the prospect of seeing his home again. A long line of ambulances and wagons was drawn up before the Libby, and in these the wounded were care- fully placed, and we rode with them to Aikin's landing on the James river, where we found the fine steam-boat "New York," flying an immense white flag, awaiting the arrival of the exchange train. We were introduced to a number of Federal officers, and I had the pleasure of meeting Col. N. B. Sweitzer, of Gen. McClellan's staff, an old school- mate. We "fraternized " at once. The cabin of the boat was filled with cots, aU beautifully clean and fresh, and under charge of the " Sanitary Com- mission." The arrangements for the comfort of the wounded were wonderfully complete, and surprised us poor "Confeds." not a little, so accustomed were we to getting along with the merest necessaries of life, and sometimes not even those. The officers treated us most hospitably, and in the after- cabin a lunch was served, and the blue and the gray harmonized beautifully, and had a good time. Some surgeons onboard made aloud "hullabaloo" about THE WASJTTN&TOJSr ARTILLERY. 97 the way they had been treated in Richmond, cursing every- body generally, and Gen. Winder in particular. Col. Glitz, whose cot was at the end of the row in the after- cabin, became incensed at their conduct and language, and suddenly raised himself on his elbow, and shouted, "Here, you d — doctors ! don't you know you are under a flag of truce?" Just then Col. Sweitzer came in, and, beino- in- formed of what had happened, turned the whole lot of " medicos " out of the cabin, and up to the hurricane roof, and made them " mark time " until we went ashore. After concluding the business of the exchange we bade Stanhope, Clitz, and Sweitzer good-by, and rode back to Richmond, much pleased with the excursion. Ex-Lieut. L. A. Adam, who resigned his commission last fall, has rejoined the Battalion Washington Artillery as a private, in the Third company. Pie says he "didn't feel at home except with his battery." On the 5th of August Gen. McClellan made a demon- stration against Gen. Evans's troops at Malvern Hill, iDut being repulsed, fell back again to the river, and troubled us no more. The siege of Richmond was raised. More than 10,000 prisoners, including officers of rank, 52 pieces of artillery, and upwards of 35,000 stand of small arms, were captured. The stores and supplies of every description which fell into our hands were great in amount and value, but small in comparison with those destroyed by the enemy.' On the 20th of June, McClellan reported present for 1 Bise and Fall of the Confederate States. Jefferson Davis, p. 153. 98 THE WASHINGTON ARTILLERY. duty in front of Richmond 105,825 men. He reached the James river with between 85,000 and 90,000 men.' The effective strength of Gen. Lee's army in the seven days' battles around Richmond was 80,762.^ Granting that the losses in Lee's army were 19,000,^ it would then appear that when McClellan reached James river with " 85,000 or 90,000 men," he was being pursued by Lee with but 62,000.* " Thus the campaign which had been prosecuted after months of preparation, at an enormous expenditure of men and money, was completely frustrated."* ' Swinton, Army of the Potomac. 2 Four Years with Lee. Taylor, p. 53. ^Swinton, Army of the Potomac. ' Four Years with Lee. Taylor, p. 56. c Else and Fall of the Confederate States. Davis, 153. THE WASHINGTON ARTILLERY. 99 CHAPTER VI. RAPPAHANNOCK STATION AND MANASSAS. Gordonsville. — Gen. John Pope. — March from Gordonsville. — Distribution of Batteries. — Spy hanged. — Engagement at Rappalian- nock Station. — Enemy moTing. — Jackson in Eear of Pope. — Salem. — White Plains. — Narrow Escape of Gen. Lee. — Thoroughfare Gap. — Enemy in Possession. — Gen. Longstreet. — Advance of Longstreet's Corps to Haymarket. — Gen. J. B. B. Stuart. — Jackson fighting. — Artillery iu Position. — Second Battle at Manassas. — Chantilly. — Gen. Phil Kearney killed. — On to Maryland. — Ford the Potomac. ON the 9th of August, 1862, we were put under marching orders. We were to assume the offensive. McClellan was powerless, and Lee proposed to draw him away from Richmond. On the 10th we marched from " Camp Longstreet," and took the turnpike towards Gordons- ville, where the whole army was concentrating, and where Jackson's corps was already encamped. On the 13th, by order of Gen. Longstreet, we pitched our tents at Gordonsville. Jackson had already marched northward. The Federal army, under Gen. John Pope, was in our front, and on the 16th we heard that Jackson had encountered him at Cedar Mountain and worsted him. Pope had been issuing all sorts of brutal orders, threaten- ing to burn farm-houses and lay waste the country. * "We marched from Gordonsville at 3.30 P.M. on the 16tli of August, and pushed on until 1.30 A.M., encamp- inof within a mile of Orange Court-House. HJn route we 100 THE WASHINGTON ARTILLERY. had the pleasux-e of seeing some of our fair dancing- club friends, and some of us took supper with them. Early on tlie 17th we were on the move again, closing up on the enemy. On the 18th we moved out of camp at 12 M., and reaching the neighborhood of Raccoon Ford, over the Eapidan river, bivouacked for the night at 11 o'clock. On the same day orders were issued by the chief of artillery to the different batteries of Longstreet's corps, to be assigned for duty as follows : — Capt. Rogers's battery to Gen. Kemper's brigade. " Stribling's " " " Jenkins's " Anderson's " " " Wilcox's " Maurin's " " " Pryor's ' ' Chapman's " " " Featherstone's ' " Brown's " " " Anderson's " Boyce's " " " Evans's " Leake's " " " Drayton's " Eshleman's battery (4th Co. Washington Artillery) to Gen. Pickett's brigade. " Richardson's battery (2d Co. Washington Artil- lery) to Gen. Toombs's brigade. " Squires (1st Co. Washington Artillery) , " Miller (3d Co. Washington Artillery) , held m reserve. The several captains were ordered to report immediately to the brigade commanders for duty during the present campaign. THE WASHINGTON ARTILLERY. 101 On the morning of August 21, as the troops were march- ing towards Stevensburg, a mounted man, clad in gray uniform, rode up to Gen. D. R. Jones, commanding division, and told him that Gen. Jackson had sent him to say that he was to halt his column where it then was. As Jones was under the orders of Gen. Longstreet he couldn't understand why Jackson should send him orders of any kind, especially as it -was known that Jackson was a long distance in advance. Suspicion being aroused, the man was ordered to dismount, his person examined, and a memorandum-book found containing an account of all of our movements since we had advanced beyond Gordons- ville. A cipher alphabet was also found. One barrel of his pistol was empty. The night before, one of Gen. Long- street's couriers, while carrying despatches, was joined on the road by a mounted man whose description corresponded with this man. After riding a short distance with the courier, the stranger dropped a little to the rear, and shot the cou- rier through the back. He fell from his horse apparently dead, and was then robbed of his despatches. He was dis- covered in the morning still alive, and then told his story. Further examination of the man's clothing showed the uniform not to be of the Confederate regulation, the cuffs and collar of his jacket being black instead of yellow. His under-clothing, boots, and spurs were unmistakably those furnished the enlisted men of the United States army. A drum-head court-martial was convened, circumstantial evi- dence was against him, and he was condemned to be hung as a spy. He took his sentence quite coolly, and gave his name as Charles Mason, of Terrysville, Pennsylvania. 102 THE WASHINGTON ARTILLERY. Longstreet's couriers requested permission to carry out the sentence of the court, to avenge their fallen comrade, mur- dered in cold blood by this spy. He was marched into the woods, placed on a mule, a rope looped around his neck and its end thrown over a limb of a tree, when a stalwart courier, with aheavy stick, by striking the mule upontherump, caused him to surge ahead, and Charles Mason, "spy" and murderer, was left swinging. When dead, a grave by the roadside was dug, and he disappeared from the face of the earth. This affair, of but little moment in the history of an army, detained the division nearly three hours. We had now come close upon the enemy near Brandy station, and our batteries were engaging some of his just ahead. We were ordered to move along briskly. One of Fitz Lee's aids informed us that he had captured Gen. Pope's head-quarters ambulance, with papers and his full-dress uniform. The uniform was sent to Richmond for the curious to feast their eyes upon. Pope's orders were dated " Head-quarters in the saddle," and he seemed to have a very poor opinion of his army, as, in his address, he wrote as follows : " I have come to you from the West, where we have always seen the backs of our enemies ; from an army whose business it has been to seek the ad- versary, and to beat him when found, — whose policy has been attack, and not defence. I jjresume I have been sent here to pursue the same system." T'f^e " presume " he expects to see the "backs" of the army of Northern Virginia. He will probably be astonished before long. On the afternoon of the 22d August the two batteries THE WASHINarON ARTILLERY. 103 (reserve) arrived in the vicinity of Rappahannock station and Beverly Ford, across the Eappahannock river, and Col. Walton, accompanied by Major Garnett and Capt. Squires, was ordered to make a reconnoissance of the enemy's position, who, with considerable artillery, held the oppo- site bank, also the railroad bridge and a " tete de pont" on the south bank. Under orders from Gen. Longstreet the enemy was to be driven from his positions on both sides of the river with artillery. The reconnoissance completed and positions selected for the different batteries to occupy in the morning, the party was returning, when, approaching the woods in which lay the brigade of Gen. Drayton, they were suddenly challenged and a couple of rifles brought to bear upon them. "Who are you? " — "Friends."— "Don't believe it : dismount ! " The Colonel remonstrated. " I am Chief of Artillery of the corps, on a reconnoissance," — " Can't help it. You look like Yanks ; down with you, quick ! " And the party dismounted in high dudgeon. The officer of the guard coming up, all hands were marched off to Gen. Drayton. Explanations followed, and the party sought our bivouac, thankful for getting off without perforation by even a friendly bullet. At daylight on the 23d the guns detailed for duty were put in position from left to right as follows : at Beverly ford, one gun of Capt. Anderson's battery, two guns of Capt. Rogers's battery, and the Third company Washington Artillery, Capt. Miller, four guns. At the " tete de pont " and the railroad bridge, the First company Washington Ar- tillery, Capt. Squires, four guns ; two guns of the Dixie artillery, under Lieut. Chapman ; Capt. Stribling's battery 104 THE WASHINGTON ARTILLERY. of four guns ; and two guns of the Donaldsonville Artillery, under Lieut. Landry, — nineteen guns in all. The fog was lying heavily over the river when the guns took position, but at sunrise, it having lifted, Capt. Miller was ordered to open fire upon one of the enemy's batteries opposite. This was the signal for all the guns to open along the line, and the guns to the right of Capt. Miller, that had been placed under the command of Major Garnett, immediately opened upon the " tete de pont " and the batteries on the opposite shore. The enemy's guns were not long in replying, and their fire was rapid and accurate. The battery opposite Miller's position engaged him hotly and well, but its fire had almost been silenced when the guns of Eogers and Anderson, on his left, that should have engaged the battery in their front, were withdrawn from the field without orders. The enemy's battery, thus disengaged, turned its guns against the Third company Washington Artillery, whose front was changed to meet this new antagonist. The battery opposite, which had been supposed silenced, reopened, and under this cross-fire our battery suffered considerably in men and horses, and was withdrawn by half battery from the field. At the railroad bridge Squires, Stribling, Chapman, and Landry were hotly engaged, and in about two hours, the enemy was driven across the river, abandoning his " tete de pont." The brigades of Gens. Evans and D. E,. Jones, the latter under Col. G. T. Anderson, moved forward to occupy this position. It was found untenable, however, being exposed to a cross-fire of artillery from the other bank. The troops were therefore partially withdrawn, > •SJ lllhlllllll Ihl THE WASHINGTON ARTILLERY. 105 and Col. S. D. Lee was ordered to select positions for his batteries, and joined in the combat. The enemy's position was soon rendered too warm for him, and, after setting fire to the railroad bridge and the private dwellings in the vicinity, he retreated in haste. This was an artillery battle only, as our infantry was not engaged, and the losses in the two batteries of the reserve, the First and Third companies Washington Artillery, were, in proportion to the number of cannoneers at the guns, very heavy. The withdrawal of Rogers's and Anderson's guns, for the reason of "having one of the guns of the former choked by a ball," led to the heavy loss in the Third com- pany, under Capt. Miller. As Miller's guns were being brought off, the enemy shelled him vigorously, and, one shell bursting directly over the heads of Col. Walton and mySelf, wounded my horse, killed that of the bugler, and a fragment ripped open the shoulder of Sergt. Collins's jacket. A wounded horse dashed by us with an officer's sabre strapped to the saddle. I recognized it at once as that of Lieut. Brewer, who was brought oif the field in_a dying condition.^ ' REPORT OF COL. WALTON. Head-quabteks AktilI/Eet Corps, Right Wing, Dept. Nobthebn Vieginia, August 25, 1862. I have the honor to report that, in ohedience to an order received from Major- Gen. Longstreet, on the evening of the 22d instant, aoeompanie^ by Major J. J. Garnett, Chief of Artillery, on the staff of Brig.-Gen. D. R. Jones, and Capt. C. W. Squires, commanding the First company Washington Artillery, I made ^ reconnoissance of the position of the enemy in the vicinity of Beverly's Ford and 106 TEE WASHINGTON ARTILLERY. At night a burial detail performed the last sad rites to our dead comrades by the flickering light of a blazing fire of logs and rails, having made rude coffins of the pews of " St. James's church," which, meaning no sacrilege, were appropriated for that purpose. Rappahannock station, on the Rappahannock river, with the view, as instructed, to place the long-range guns under my command in position to open upon the enemy's batteries early on the following morning. Having, during the night, made all necessaiy preparation, at daybreak, on the morning of the 23d, I placed in position on the left, at Beverly's .Ford, Capt. Miller's battery Washington Ai'tillery, four light 12-pounder Napoleon guns, a section of two 10-pounder Parrott guns, under Capt. Rogers, and one 10-pounder Parrott gun, under Capt, Anderson ; and on the right, Capt. Squires's batteiy Washington Artillery, four three-inch riHes; Capt. Stribling's battery, one three-inch rifle and three light 12-poundcr Napoleon guns; a section of Capt. Chapman's battery, one three-inch rifle and one light 12-pounder Napoleon gun, under Lieut. Chapman, and two Blakely guns of Capt. Maurin's battery, under Lieut. Landry. The heavy fog prevailing obscured the opposite bank of the river and the enemy's positions entirely from view until about 6 o'clock A.M., at which hour, the sun having partially dispelled the fog, I opened fii-e from C.apt. Miller'3 battery upon a battery of long-range guns of the enemy, directly in front, at a range of about one thousand yards. By previous arrangement the batteries on the right and left of Oapt. Miller's position immediately opened, and the fire became general along the line. AVe had not long to wait for the response of the enemy, he immediately opening upon all our positions a rapid and vigorous fire from all his batteries, some in positions until then undiscovered by us. The battery of the enemy engaged by Capt. Miller was silenced in about forty minutes. Notwithstanding the long-range guns under Capts. Rogers and Anderson, on the left, bad, shortly after the commencement of the engagement, been with- drawn from action and placed under shelter of the hill on which they had been posted, thus leaving the battery of the enemy, which it was intended these guns should engage, free to direct against Miller, and the batteries on the hill on the right, a most destructive fire. At this time Capt. Miller changed position and directed his fire against the opposing batteiy, when one on the right of that which had been silenced opened upon him, subjecting him to a cross-fire, and causing him to lose heavily in men and horses. The fire was continued by Miller's battery alone on the left until 7 o'clock, when, after consultation with Gen. Jones, and the fire of the enemy having greatly slackened, I ordered him to retire by half battery, which was handsomely done, in good order. At this time Lieut. Brewer fell, mortally wounded. The combat on the ri^ht was gallantly fought by the batteries there placed in position. Capt. Squires assumed command of that part of the field, and won for himself renewed honors by the handsome manner in which he handled his batteries and for the good judgment and coolness he displayed under the heavy fire of the enemy, to which he was subjected during four hours without intermission. THE WASHINOTON ARTILLERY. 107 It was far into the night when the following order was received : — Head-quakteks Longstreet's Coeps, August 23, 1862. Colonel, — Our brigades are ordered to more at 4 o'clock in the morning. If you are ready by daylight it will do. As heretofore, follow in rear of the column. Veryresp'y, G. M. SOEEEL, A. A. Gen'l. Col. Walton, Chief of Artillery. The object sought to be obtained by this engagement, I am happy to say, was fuUy accomplished by driving the enemy from all his positions before nightfall, and causing him to withdraw from our front entirely during the night. I have to lament the loss, in this engagement, of a zealous, brave, and most efScient ofBcer, in Lieut. Brewer, Thh'd company "Washington Artilleiy, who fell at the, head of his section at the moment it was being withdrawn from the field, and of many non-commissioned ofiBcers and privates. The officers and men in all the batteries engaged are desei'ving the highest praise for their gallantry upon the field. The attention of the general commanding is respect- fully directed to those named particularly in the reports of Capts. Miller and Squu'es. Too much praise cannot be awarded to Capt. Miller and his brave company for the stubborn and unflinching manner in which they fought the enemy's battery in such superior force and position on the left, and to Capts. Squires and Stribling, and Lieuts. Landiy and Chapman on the right. I am indebted to Capt. Middleton, of Brig.-Gen. Drayton's staff, to Lieut. 'Winiams, of Gen. D. E. Jones's staff, and to Lieut. WiUiam M. Owen, adjutant, Washington Artillery, all of whom were constantly with me under fire during the engage- ment, for their valuable assistance and zealous conduct on the field. Thei-e are none more brave or more deserving consideration than these gentlemen. I annex a list of casualties, and have the honor to be, J. B. Walton, Gol. and Chief of AH., Bight Wing. EEPOET OF CAPT. MELLEE. I proceeded with my battery of four smooth-bore 12-pounder Napoleons to Beverly's ford, on the Eappahannock, one thousand yards from the river. My po- sition, on a hill sloping towai-ds the river, was not sucha one as I would have desired, though doubtless the best the locality afforded. At sunrise I discovered a bat- tery of the enemy in position immediately in front of us, on a hill on the north side of the river, and I opened on it with spherical ease. The enemy replied briskly, and for half an hour the firing was very spirited. During this time I was considerably annoyed by an enfilading fire of a long-ranged battery, posted to our right, and entirely beyond our range. After nearly an hour's engage- 108 TSE yrASEINOTON ARTILLERY. At 11 o'clock in tKe morning of the 24th we marched as ordered, in the rear of the brigades, crossed Hazel river and camped. On the 25th the swollen condition of the Rappahannock was such as to prevent the army from ment, I was gratified to notice tliat the fire in our front had perceptibly slackened, indeed had almost entirely ceased. Up to this time but one of my men had been wounded, and two horses killed. The batteries supporting me at this time retired from the field, subjecting me to a gaUing cross-fire fi'om the enemy's rifle battery in their front. I immediately changed front on the left and replied. The enemy, having our exact range, replied with terrible precision and effect. For some time we maintained this unequal conflict, when, having nearly ex- hausted my ammunition, and agreeably to your orders, I retu'ed by half battery from the field. My casualties were : Killed — First Lieut. Brewer, privates Thompson, Mc- Donald, Joubert (mortally wounded) , and Dolan. Wounded — Corporal P. W. Pettiss ; privates James TuUy, Levy, Fourshee, Maxwell, Crilly, Kenvin, Lynch, — eight. Twenty-one horses killed ; 356 rounds of ammunition expended. I would be pleased to pay a tribute to the coolness and intrepidity of my command, but, where all acted so well, it would be invidious to particularize. I should be wanting in my duty, however, where I not to mention Lieuts! Hero and McElroy, and my non-commissioned ofiicers, Sergts. McN'eil, Handy, Collins, Ellis, and Stocker, and Coi'porals Coyle, Kremmelburg, Pettiss, and DeBlane, who, by their coolness and close attention to duty, contributed not a little to the efficiency of mj battery. Hespectfully, M. B. MiLLEK, Capt. Commanding 3d Co. S. W.A. REPORT OF CAPT. SQUHIES. Early on the morning of the 23d of August, the artillery, composed of the First company Washington Ai'tilleiy (four three-inch rifles), and Captain Strlbling's battery (three Napoleon guns and one three-inch rifle), marched in the direction of the hill opposite to Rappahannock station. . . . The bat- teries were formed in line from right to left in the following order ; First com- pany Washington Artilleiy, four three-inch rifle guns ; Dixie artiUeiy, one Napoleon gun and one three-inch rifle ; Stribling's batteiy, three Napoleon guns and one three-inch rifle. This had scarcely been accomplished when the signal was given from your position to " commence firing," which was quickly responded to by the enemy. The combat was briskly caiTied on by the artillery directly in our front for half an hour, when the enemy placed a battery on the extreme left, and had partly succeeded in enfilading our batteries when I with- drew the section of Lieut. Galbraith and directed him to engage the enemy on THE WASniNOTON ARTILLERY. 109 crossing at any of the fords, so it moved to the left, up stream. Pope was on the opposite bank moving parallel with us. We camped at sundown near Jeffersonton. During the evening the enemy treated us to a little artillery the left. Lieut. Galbvaith accomplishecl this under a heavy fire, and was partly forced from his first position when Lieut. Landry, with a section of Capl. Maurin's battery, reported, and was sent to assist Lieut. Galbraith, the four guns being placed under Lieut. Galhraith, who managed to keep a heavy enfilading fire from the main batteries, by the coolness and braverj' with which he manoeuvred this battery. The fire on both sides now became general and rapid. The enemy placed more artillery in position, and for some time I thought I should have to retire ; but the enemy soon after slackened his fire, and it was evident he was worsted by the projectiles with which our artillerists assailed him. An ofiicer now came from the right, and informed me that the infantiy were preparing to charge, and to cease firing as soon as they appeared. I kept up the fire, returning shot for shot with the enemy, who appeared willing to give up the combat. Seeing this, and being informed that Gen. Evans (commanding the infantry) was advancing to attack the enemy, I ordered the four (reserve) guns of Lieut. Galbraith in position to engage the enemy's artilleiy and draw his attention while our troops were advancing. The enemy finally gave up his position, retired across the Eappahannock, and only replied occasionally to our fire, and in an hour after ceased firing altogether. It is with pleasure I am enabled to speak of the gallantry with which Capt. Stribling, ofiieers and men, behaved on this occasion. Lieut. Chapman, with his section of Dixie artillery, behaved with great coolness, and handled his guns with efTect; To Lieut. E. Owen, J. M. Galbraith, and those under their ■ command, I would especially call your attention. Both officers commanded full batteries, and handled them with coolness, bravery, and good judgment, which have so often on previous occasions won the confidence of their men. Sergts. T. Y. Aby, C. L. C. Dupuy, and L. M. Montgomery rendered me efficient service ; the latter, on previous occasions, has placed me under many obligations for his voluntary sei'vices. First company batteiy Washington Ai'tillery, killed : privates W. Chambers, B. T. Marshall, J. Eeddington, and II. Koss. Wounded, Corporal W. II. West, privates, John E. Fell, T. S. Turner, M. Mount, and W. E. Falconer. Dixie artilleiy, wounded ; privates, John Eddins, Westley Pence, John Knight, and Daniel Martin. Strihling's batteiy, wounded : Lieut. Archer and one private. First company battery Washington Artillery, horses killed, 1 ; wounded, 1. Strihling's battery, horses killed, 4 ; wounded, 0. Dixie batteiy, horses kiUed, 1 ; wounded, 0. Total, 6 killed, 1 wounded. One three-inch rifle gun exploded daring action. The batteries were engaged from about 7 o'clock A.M., to 11 o'clock A.M., and expended the following ammunition : — 110 TEE WASJJINOTON ARTILLERY. practice, which did no damage except frightening the colored cooks and some of our teamsters almost out of their senses. On the morning of the 26th the enemy had disappeared. We were careful in marching to keep out of view of the enemy's signal stations, so we kept under the shelter of woods, and moving through Amissville crossed the Rappahannock at Hinson's INIill and camped at Orlean. Lee was making every effort to circumvent Pope. It was reported that old " Stonewall " was very near Manassas. We must have it out with the general having his " head- quarters in the saddle " in a very few days. At 9 A.jNI. on the 27th, the army moved, passing through Salem, and camped at White Plains, placing guns in position to guard against surprise. On the march to-day the column halted on the outskirts of Salem, and many men and officers, Gen. Lee among them, went into the village to get some refreshment. While thus engaged a cry was raised, " The Yankee Cavalry ! Yankee Cavalry are upon us ! " And then there was " hurrying to and fro " First company Washington Artillciy, 400 ; section of Dixie artilleiy, 209 ; section of Maurin's artillery, 119; Sti'iblin^*3 artilleiy, 354 ; Leake's artilleiy, one gun. Total, 1,182. Capt. Leake reported after the enemy had retired with one rifle and three smooth-bore guns. He sustained no loss. About 2 o'clock P.M., Major Garnett rode up and requested me to send four rifle guns to Col. S. D. Lee, who was on the right, near Central Eaih-oad. For this pui-posc I detached Lieut. Owen witli one section of the Washington Ai'tillerj-, and one section of Maurin'a batteiy. In obedience to your orders, at 5.30 P.M., I ordered all the guns back to their respective commands. Veiy respectfully. Colonel, your obedient servant, C. W. Squikes, Capt, Cmnmanding First do. Bat. W.A. To Col. Walton, Commanding. THE WASHINGTON ARTILLERY. HI at a great rate as a squadron of horse dashed down the main street of the town. Some of our people — about -fifty — were taken, and Gen. Lee himself narrowly escaped. Not knowing but the enemy might be in force, a line of battle was formed, and two pieces of artillery were placed to sweep the road ; but they came not, so all visions of captures of horses, pistols, and silver watches had to be abandoned. Upon reaching Thoroughfare Gap in the after- noon of the 28th, Col. G. T. Anderson, commanding the Georgia brigade, was ordered to clear it of the enemy, who was found there. Col. Beck, with his regiment (Ninth Georgia), was ordered to advance, and sent forward two companies as skirinishers on a reconnoissance. Proceeding cautiously he drove a mounted picket before him, killing three of them, and cleared the pass, moving some quarter of a mile beyond, and held his position until attacked and driven back by a whole brigade and a battery. The whole of Anderson's brigade was now ordered forward, and, moving rapidly to the front, met Col. Beck falling back very slowly before the large force of the enemy, and he was at once ordered to form his regiment on the right of the railroad, and the other regiments were formed on the left as fast as they came up. The line being formed, and skirmishers advanced to the front, the brigade moved for- ward gallantly, the men climbing the rough mountain sides on their hands and knees to reach the enemy, who were occu- pying the crest of the hill and delivering a murderous fire in their faces as they made the perilous ascent. From the nature of the ground and the impenetrable thickets of laurel and brush, but one regiment obtained a favorable' position, 112 TUE WASHTXGTOX ARTILLHRr. that being the First Georgia, wliicli inflicted a severe loss upon the enemy. Capt. Fatten brought down five men ■with his pistol, killing three of them. After Anderson had entered the Gap, Gen. D. E. Jones ordered in the remainder of his division, placing Drayton's brisade and two resiments of Toombs's brisrade on the right of the gorge, holding the other two regiments of Toombs in reserve. The enemy appeared in force upon the plateau in front of the Gap, and opened an artillery fire upon the troops now emerging from it. The artillery fire was kept up until after nightfall, when the enemy retreated, and Jones's division bivouacked beyond the Gap immolested by the enemy. ^ During tlie afternoon Gen. Hood, with his ovra and Gen. TTliiting's brigade, was ordered by a footpath over the mountain to turn the enemy's right, and Gen. ATilcox, witli his own, Featherstone's and Pryor's brigades, was ordered through Hopewell Gap, three miles to our left, to turn the right and attack the enemy in rear. Both com- mands bivouacked beyond the mountain, but tlie enemy had alreadv retreated. lEarlv in the morpin^, caralry wci'e sent to the Gap to reconnoitre, and, on theii' report that the enemy were advancing through the Gap, Elckett's division, which was to bring up the rear, and wliich was to have followed on King's left, and mai-ched to Manassas Junction, ■n^as detached and sent to the Gap bj- way of Ha_\Tuai-ket, wlicre it arrived at 3 P.M. Eicketts was seriously delayed by wagon-h'ains in mai-ching from bis bivouas of the night before, west of Buckland Mills to the ro.id, where he tui'ncd off to the left to go to Ilaymarket and the Gap. However, his troops deliiyed the passage of Longstreet's ti-oops through the Gap during the rest of the day and eaily pait of the evening, and the enemy were obliged to send three brfgades through Hopewell Gap to the north of ThoTOUghfaije Gap before our troops retired. After dai-k, Eicketts fcU back to Gainesville. — Arniy under Pope^ Hopes. THE WASHmOTOy ARTILLERY. 113 August 29. — Gen. Longstreet slept in a small cottage last night, on the moimtain, near the Grap, and his staff, Col. "Walton, and myself on the porch in front of his door. I don't believe the General slept a minute, as he -was tramping up and down the floor, it appeared to me, all night. Just before day, when it was very dark, he opened his door, and, stalking across the gallery, disappeared in the darkness. Presently he called his orderly, Morris, and ordered his bay horse saddled, which being done he rode away alone. Sorrel and Fairfax were sleeping soundly. I gave each a kick with the toe of my boot, and told them " they had better be crawling out, that the General was off and in the Gap by this time." Then came the hurrying and scurrying of busy feet; horses were saddled, blankets rolled, and off we all scampered. It was often noticed that the General would, upon occasions when his mind was much occupied, mount and ride away, not noticing whether his staff was following or not ; but when he turned his head to the right or to the left, he expected staff officers to be at hand, and they generally were there. At daylight no enemy was in sight at or near the Gap. Hood and WUcox joined the column of march early in the mominsT, as it moved in the direction of Gainesville. Xoticed a few dead Federals in the Gap, one a captain, said to be named Carpenter ; he was a fine-looking man, fully six feet in height. Our two reserve batteries, the First and Third compa^ nies Washington Artillery, marched at the head of the 114 THE ■WASHINGTON ARTILLERY. column, immediately in rear of Geng. Lee and Longstreet and their escorts. We are nearing Haymarket and Gainesville, and can hear the roar of cannon and small arms over on our left, towards Bull Run, where Jackson is supposed to be. If Pope has locked horns with him he must be hard pressed ; but he has a way of taking care of himself. The heat and dust are something terrible, and the men suffer much for water, some stooping down and drinking from the pools of dirty water by the road-side and from the cow tracks. A squadron of cavalry emerges from a piece of woods on our left. Not knowing whether they are friend or foe, the column is halted. But soon the cross of St. Andrew is recognized upon their guidon, and a body of officers approaches rapidly. We soon distinguish the manly form, flowing beard, and plume of Gen. J. E. B. Stuart. Gen. Lee greets him, and says : " Well, General, what of Jackson ? " "Pie has fallen back from Manassas, and is holding the enemy at bay at Sudley's ford." " We must hurry on and help him," said Lee. " Is there no path by which we can move our tired men and get them out of the heat and dust ? " Evidently there was none, and the troops were once more put in motion. The roar of the guns and the rattle of the small arms fill every heart with that indescribable emotion a soldier feels when he knows a battle is at hand. It is not fear nor anxiety. What is it? Let others answer. It is a glorious feeling, however, and the men step forward briskly, " eager for the fray." THE WASHmOTON' ARTILLERY. 115 At 11.30 A.M. the reserve batteries (First and Third companies Washington Artillery) reach Gainesville, where we come into the Warrenton turnpike, and, turning to the left in the direction of GroA^etOn, move along a mile or two, when we are turned off into a piece of woods on the left of the pike and halted. The infantry then deployed in line of battle : Hood, the first to arrive, with the Texans, on the right and left of the turnpike, at right angles Avith it, and supported by Gen. Evans's brigade. Then come Kemper's division, with his own brigade under Col. Corse, Pickett's brigade under Col. Hunton, and Jenkins's brigade, who form on the right of Hood ; then D. E,. Jones's division of the brigades of G. T. Anderson, Drayton, and Toombs, form- ing on Kemper's right, with his own right resting on or near the Manassas Gap Radroad. Wilcox's division arrives last, — having followed the rear of the column, — with his own brigade and those of Featherstone and Pryor. He passes through the woods on the left of the pike, where our reserve batteries have been halted, his men going through our guns, and deploys in a field in front of us, his right on the turnpike near Hood's left. Jackson's right is just in front of Wilcox, his line extendincr alonoj an unfinished railroad cut, leading off towards Sudley's ford, where he rests his left. As soon as the head of our advancing column of in- fantry is sepn by the enemy they retire from the high ground in front of us, where they have been attacking Jackson's right, and change front to meet Hood and Evans 116 THE WASHINGTON' ARTILLERY. At 1 o'clock Gen. Longstreet sends for Col. Walton, and we find the General, with his staff, in the field where Wilcox is forming his lines, dismounted and standing behind their horses, for the sharp-shooters are popping away vigorously. He orders " all the long-range guns that can be gotten up to occupy the hill just aban- doned by the enemy, and to open upon the enemy's left." Capt. Miller's Third company Washington Artillery, with four Napoleon guns, was at once sent forward, pass- ing through Wilcox's unformed line, much to his disgust, and immediately took position and opened fire. Capt. Squires, with the First company Washington Artillery, with three rifle-guns, under Lieut. E. Owen, followed and took position on Miller's left. These were followed by Riley's battery, four guns ; Bachman's battery, four guns ; one rifle-gun of Capt. Anderson ; one Xapoleon of Capt. Chapman, and two Blakeley guns of the Don- aldsonville Artillery, under command of Lieut. Landry, — nineteen guns in all. These guns filled the space between Jackson's right and Longstreet's left, and opened a terrific fire on the enemy's infantry and some of his artillery at Groveton. Jackson's men hear the wel- come sounds and know that Longstreet and his brave men are near. A mighty yell of recognition surges from thousands of throats along the battle line above the sounds of cannon. Lee's grand army of brave Southern hearts is reunited ! Who can stand before his veterans? Upon . the ground now occupied by the nineteen guns of Longstreet's corps the enemy has left his dead and THE WASBING TON ARTILLERY. 117 wounded ; the latter are helped out of the way, but, the grass having caught fire, many are badly burned. The enemy's artillery fire having slackened greatly, and an attack upon Jackson's left by the enemy's infantry having been broken up, I was sent to report the condition of afiFairs to Gen. Longstreet, then with Gen. Lee on a hill a little in the rear of our infantry, on the right of the Warrenton turnpike. I found the General, and reported. Old " Stonewall " was with him. Gen. Lee was evidently anxious to attack the enemy at once, and said to Longstreet, " Hadn't we better move our line for- ward ? " But Longstreet replied, " I think not ; we had better wait until we hear more from Gen. Stuart about the force he has reported moving against us from Manas- sas ; " and our line was not moved. Gen. Jackson paid a compliment to our artillery, saying, after having ob- served the practice of the nineteen guns, " Gen. Long- street, your artillery is superior to mine." Our timely arrival probably caused him to look most favorably upon the batteries engaged, to the detriment even of the fine artillery organization in his own corps. As Col. "Walton, "BlifFkins," and I were sitting on our horses in the road behind the batteries, a shell ex- ploded over our heads, killing a poor fellow, who had been enjoying the luxury of see-sawing in a rocking-chair. But a moment before we had observed him, remarking that he was the picture of ease and comfort ; the next instant he had joined the great majority. The nineteen guns were withdrawn from their positions upon the hiU at 3.30 P.M. , to refill their chests with ammu- 118 THE WASHINGTON ARTILLERY. nition from the ordnance wagons, which had just come up. It is always a comfort to know that plenty of ammunition is to be had, and Capt. Fred Colston of the ordnance is always on hand. " Give me plenty of ammunition, and unlimited horses, and I will fight my batteries day in and day out," said Col. Snowden Andrews. While refilling the chests Gen. Longstreet sent for a battery to go over to his right, and the Third company Washington Artillery caissons were hurriedly filled, and the battery sent over. Wilcox's three brigades were also marched over to our right, as an attack was apprehended in that quarter from Manassas ? but nothing came of it, and Wilcox's men and our battery were returned to the left again. Hood's two brigades, supported by Evans, and joined by Wilcox, moved forward about 4 o'clock, and made a gal- lant attack against a force of the enemy advancing to attack Jackson. There was a severe brush : one piece of artillery, several regimental standards, and a number of prisoners were taken, when the enemy retired, and at midnight Hood, Evans, and Wilcox resumed their former places in line. The army bivouacked in line of battle ; water was scarce, and much suffering was experienced in consequence.^ On the morning of tlie 30th the enemy again advanced. 'One thing, however, is certain, and that is that the presence of Porter's corps that afternoon not only retained Jones on the railroad, but for a certain space of time brought over "Wilcox also from the turnpike. It is understood that Gen. Lee wanted to attack that day, and that Gen. Longstreet was opposed to it. If he had attacked that day he would have had certain advantages which he did not have the following day. The divisions of King and Eicketts, as well as those of Porter, were all out of position on Friday. — Army under Pope. EoPES. THE WASHINGTON ARTILLERY. 119 and began skirmishing along the whole line. Jackson and Longstreet maintained the same position that they did yesterday* Gen. R. H. Anderson's division had arrived at Gainesville, where it was held in reserve. Stephen D. Lee's battalion of artillery occupied the same ground our nineteen guns occupied yesterday, and engaged the enemy until noon, when all firing ceased, and an ominous silence prevailed. At about 3 o'clock the enemy advanced against Jackson's left in heavy force, his glitter- ing lines of battle in magnificent array. Jackson's men keep under cover of the railroad embankment until the enemy come in close range, when all along their front sud- denly comes a crash of musketry. The enemy wavers and falls back. Our men behind the railroad cut are running short of carti-idges, and many run out and strip the dead and wounded of their cartridge-boxes. A second and third line of the enemy, of great strength, move up to support the first, and come forward with apparently irresistible force. Jackson's men, having no ammunition to spare, again await them until at close range, and then pour their volleys into them with unerring aim ; but the enemy fights doggedly and well. Many Confederates, getting out of ammunition, pick up great stones, and throw them into the faces of the foe with deadly effect. The result of the fighting seems to tremble in the balance, and Jackson sends for reinforcements, when the enemy fortunately comes in range of the left flank of Longstreet, who quickly orders four of the batteries of Col. S. D. Lee's battalion to open upon him. The effect is instantaneous : the heavy columns, until now holding their own or gradually pushing the hard-fought and tired 120 THE WA8EINOT0N ARTILLERY. troops of Jackson, break and fall back in great confusion. Their efforts to rally are unavailing, and, thus relieved of the pressure, Jackson's men leap out of the cut, and, press- ing forward against the foe with wild shouts and yells, drive him in confusion and dismay. Then Longstreet, riding down his lines, gives the command to charge the enemy's centre and left. The men, eager and anxious for the fray, like blood- hounds unleashed, leap forward to help " Old Stonewall." ^ Hood, with his Texans, followed by Evans, leads the attack. Anderson gallantly supports Hood, while Wil- cox takes care of the left and Kemper the right ; D. R. Jones on the extreme right. Forward sweeps the line, steadily, determinedly ; no halting, but " Forward ! " " For- ward ! " always " Forward ! " No other order is necessary. The reserve batteries (Washington Artillery) follow, but so rapid is the advance that they cannot get a shot. On the right the Second and Fourth companies Washing- ton Artillery are fully engaged. The Fifth Texas strikes the Fifth New York Zouaves, and short and bloody is the work. Kemper pounces upon a battery of "Napoleons." Richardson's cannoneers of the Second company Washing- ton Artillery run forward and man the pieces, and open them upon their late owners. Eshleman, with the Fourth com- pany Washington Artillery, following Rosser's and Stuart's cavalry, sweeps around the enemy's extreme left, and en- 1 Porter meantime, about 4 o'clock, pushes Morell's division in front. They drive the enemy from the outlying woods back upon the old raih'oad embankment. Sykes's division of regulars is in reserve. To the right Hatch pushes in King's division. The attack is made with great resolution. Jackson's veterans resist them with their never-failing tenacity and pluck. — Army under Pope. KoPES. TH:E WASHINGTON ARTILLERY. 121 gages him, moving from hill to hUl. On, on, the fiery line advances ; voUeys and yells, shell and canister, — the slaugh- ter is terrible. The enemy breaks from one position after an- other, and at last retreats to the opposite bank of Bull Run, But over there, upon the well-known "Henry-house Hill,"^ stands like a wall of glittering steel the division of 1 The slope of the hill behiud the village (Groveton) was covered with a mass of men without order. Beyond these were other troops posted at right angles with the first, and among them the Zonaves, who were thenhalf a mile away from where they were posted in the morning. The Confederate line came out on the open ground, moving in fine order, and firing as it advanced. The insignificant force opposing it was swept from the field in a few minutes, leaving the hill-side strewn with dead, a, great number of whom were of the Zouave regiment. The fugi- tives fled towards the turnpike and towards the next ridge, and the Confederate line halted to re-form the ranks, and the batteries advanced to the open ground. The Second brigade moved along with the mass into the road and down to the toll-gate at the foot of the Henry Hill. Near this spot a little brook enters Young's branch from the south. Beside the turnpike, and on the opposite side of this bi-Ook, stood Col. Warren and sixteen Zouaves of the Fifth New York Volunteers, with, the regimental colors, — the remnant that came out of the battle intact. Warrcasat immovable on his horse, looldng back at the battle, and as if paralyzed, and the sixteen men, formed in files of four, blackened with dust and smoke, stood under their coloi'S silent as statues, and gazed vacantly at the tumultuous concourse passing by. — Recollections of a Campaign. Wm. E. Dougherty, Capt. U. S. Army. We pass now to the struggle for the Henry-house Hill. Here were Sykes*s regulai-s, in first-rate order, and ready to receive the enemy. Buchanan, an old veteran of the war with Mexico, who had with his own hand forced open the door of Molino del Rey, commanded one brigade ; Chapman, his comrade in the same gallant fight, the other. Here, too, were gathered all the troops that could be collected from the front. It was a post of the last importance. We could not aiford to lose it. There was no position west of Bull Run which offered such advantages for defence as this. The army was in full retreat, though in orderly retreat ; but that orderly retreat would be changed into a rout if the enemy should drive us from om' position on the Henry-house Hill and its neighborhood. There would be nothing between them and the stone bridge across Bull Kun. And they did not carry it. Their exertions had been severe before they reached this position. They had marched a considerable distance, and over difiicult country. They- attacked, however, with their accustomed energy and courage, and, while they suffered much, they inflicted heavy losses upon the regulars of Sykes. But, fortunately for the Federal army, darkness came on, and the exhausted Confederates ceased from farther assaults upon their obstinate antagonists. — The Army under Pope. John C. Ropes. 122 THE WASHINGTON ARTILLERY. regulars, the rear-guard of the volunteer army of Gen. Pope. Their perfect discipline and steadiness render them no mean adversaries for our exultant troops. That wall of fire stands immovable, while our arms beat against it with giarantic blows. It alone stands between Lee and a rout like unto Bull Kun. At last, after long waiting, night spreads its mantle over the scene of blood. Bat- teries near the Chinn House, and our Fourth com- pany at the Conrad House, with Eosser's cavalry, con- tinue the' cannonade, until finally the brave regulars move steadily off the field, and passing over Bull Eun at the stone bridge the battle is ended, and Pope has found "lines of retreat," and has not seen the " hades " of Lee, Long- street, " Stonewall Jackson," and their men. Lee has scored another victory. With 49,000 men, of all arms, he has defeated Pope with 75,000, and put him to inglorious retreat on the road to Washington. Seven thousand prisoners have been taken, besides 2,000 wounded left on the field. Thirty pieces of artillery, and upwards of 20,000 small arms, numerous colors, and a large amount of stores, besides those taken by Jackson at Manassas Junction, were captured. EEPOET OF COL. "WALTON, OF SECOND BATTLE OF MANASSAS. Head-quaetees Battalion Washington Aetillekt, November 30, 18G2. To Majoe G. W. Soeeel, Assistant Adjutant General, Right Wing, A.N.V.: — I have the honor to transmit the following report of the operations of the Battalion Washington Artillery, of New Orleans, undey my command, THE WASHINGTON ARTILLERY. 123 on the 29th, 30th, and 31st of August last, at and after the second battle of Manassas. On the 29th of August, 1862, the four batteries composing the battalion were assigned and served as follows : The Fourth com- pany, consisting of two 6-pounder bronze guns, and two 12-pounder howitzers, under Capt. B. F. Eshleman, Lieuts. Norcom, Battles, and Apps, with Pickett's brigade ; the Second company, with two 6-pounder bronze guns, and two 12-pounder howitzers, under Capt. Eichardson, Lieuts. Hawes, DeRussey, and Britton, with Toombs's brigade ; the First company, with three 3-inch rifle-guns, under Capt. C. W. Squires, Lieuts. E. Owen, Galbraith, and Brown, and the Third company, with fonr light 12-pouuder guns (Napoleons), under Capt. M. B. Miller, Lieuts. McElroy and Hero in reserve. About noon on the 29th the two batteries in reserve, having halted near the village of Gainesville on the Warrenton and Centreville turn- pike, were ordered forward by Gen. Longstreet, to engage the enemy then in our front, and near the village of Groveton. . Capts. Miller and Squires at once proceeded to the position indicated by the General, and opened fire upon the enemy's batteries. Immediately in Capt. Miller's front he discovered a battery of the enemy, distant about twelve hundred yards. Beyond this battery, and on a more elevated position, were posted the enemy's rifle-batteries. He opened upon the battery nearest him, and, after a spirited engagement of three quarters of an hour, com- pletely silenced it, and compelled it to leave the field. He then turned his attention to the enemy's rifle-batteries, and engaged them until, hav- ing exhausted his ammunition, he retired from the field. Capt. Squires, on reaching his position on the left of Capt. Miller's battery, at once opened with his usual accuracy upon the enemy's batteries. Unfortunately, after the first fire, one of his guns, having become disabled by the blowing out of the bushing of the vent, was sent from the field. Capt. Squires then placed the remaining section of his battery under command of Lieut. Owen, and rode to the left, to place additional guns (that had been sent forward to his assistance) in position. At this time the enemy's infantry were engaged by the forces on the left of the position occupied by our batteries, and, while the enemy retreated in confusion before the charge of our veterans, the section under Lieut. Owen poured a destructive fire into their ranks. 124 THE WASffl.yGTOy ARTILLERT. The enemy's artillery, haring withdrawn beyond our range, the sec- tion was ordered from the field. Botli batteries, the First and Third, in tills action, fully maintained their well-earned reputation for slcilful practice and gallant behavior. Witli tliis duel ended the operations on the left of our line for tlie day. The next morning, SOtli of August, tlie Second company of Capt. J. B. Richardson was ordered forward, from its position on the Manassas Gap Ballroad, to join its brigade (Toombs's), tlien moving forward towards the enemy. Capt. Hiehardson pushed forward until, arriving near the Chinn House, he was informed that our infantry liad cluirged and taien a battery near that position ; but, owing to hea\y reinforcements thrown forward by the enemy, were unable to hold it witliout the assistance of artillery. He immediately took position on tlio left of the Chinn House and opened on tlie enemy, who were advancing rapidly, in large num- bers. After firing a short time he moved his battery forward about four hundred yards, and succeeded in holding tlie captured battery of four Napoleons, forcing tlie enemy back, and compelling a battery im- mediately in his front, and wliich was annoying our infantry greatly, to retire. He then turned the captured guns upon tlioir late owners, and at night brought tliem from tlie field with their horses and harness. 'Capt. Eichardson, in liis report, makes special mention for gallantry of privates J. B. Cleveland and 'ST. W. Davis, who were the first to reach the captured battery, and, with the assistance of some infantry, fired nearlj- twenty-five rounds before being relieved by their comrades. Lieut. Hawes had his horse shot under him during tliis battle. T^^hile Richardson, with the Second, was doing such gallant services near Chinn House, Eslileman, witli the Fourtli, with his short-r.ange guns, was doing good work in the same neighborhood. Following his brigade (Pickett's) , he shelled tlie woods in tlieir front, while they advanced in line of battle against the enemy, whose skirmishers were seen on the edge of the wood. Finding it would be impracticable to follow the brigade, owing to tlie broken nature of the ground, he p.assed rapidly to the right and front, going into battery and firing from every clev.ated position from which he could enfilade the enemy, until he had passed entirely to the right of Gen. Jones's position (overlooking nearly the whole space in front of Cliinn House), from which his shells fell into the ranks of the enemy with great execution. A persistent attack on tlie ftont and flank THE VTASBIXGTOX ABTILLERT. 125 droTe the enemy back into the woods, and notr the immense clouds of dust lisriig from CentceTille road indicated that he was in full retreat. He was directed br Gen. D. R. Jone5 to more fonrard and shell the wood and road, which he continued to do until directed by Gen. J. £. B. Stuart to send a section of his battery to the hills in front of the Conrad House, and to fire into a colnmn of caralrr adTancing in his rear. The section nnder Lient. Xorcom was detached, took position on the left of the Conrad House, and fired into the enemy tmtil directed to cease by Gen. Snu-irt, his object having been accomplished. The remaining section of the battery, imder Lient. Battles, was then ordered by Capt- Eshleman across the Sndley road, filing, as it ad- vanced, into the retreating enemy. Al this time CapL Ushleman's only support was one company of sixty men of Gen. Jackson's sharp- shooters, nnder Capt. Lee. AKer a short intenral the enemy again appeared in force near the edge of the wood. Capt. Eshleman immediately changed his front to the left, and ponied into the enemy's ranks two rounds of canister, with deadly eSect. Those not MQed or wounded ran in disorder. After throwing a few shells into the woods Capt. Eshleman retired about two hundred yards to the rear, being unwilling to risk his section with such meagre supp-jrr. In a few minutes an order was brought from Gen. Stuart directing the section to be brought again to the vicinity of the Conrad House. It was now dark, and Capt Eshleman kept up from this last posi- tion a moderate fire until 9 o'clock, in the direction of the Centreville load, when he was directed to retire, with Lieut. Jsorcom's section, that had joined him on the field, and rest his men. Capt. Eshleman, in his report, applauds hi^ily the conduct of his officers, non-conmiis- sioned officers, and men, to whose coolness and judgment he was indebted for the rapid evolutions of his battery and precision of his fire. The nest day, August 31, 1S62, Lieut. Owen, with two gnus of the First company, accompanied Gen. Stuart, co mmandin g cavalry, in pur- suit of the enemy to and beyond Germantown. They came up with the enemv at several points, driving him ahead of them and capturing five hundred piisoners. Capt. Squires, on the same day, with one gun, accompanied Col. Bosser to Manassas, going in rear of the enemy, capturing a large 126 TEE WASnmGTON ARTILLERY. amount of stores (quartermaster's and surgical), ambulances, horses, etc. My casualties in this battle were, one killed, — private H. N. White, — of Second company, and nine Trounded. Thus ended the operations of this battalion in this great second battle of Manasses, fought almost on the same ground and in sight of the field where our guns first pealed fortb a little more than a, year before. I hare the satisfaction, in conclusion, to say that all the officers and men gave in this important battle renewed evidence of their devotion, judgment, and cool bravery, in most trying positions. No eulogy of mine can add to the reputation they so worthily enjoy, earned upon bloody battle-fields. I am under obligations to Lieut. W. M. Owen, my always devoted and brave Adjutant, for distinguished services under fire. I have the honor to be your obedient servant, J. B. WAXTON, Colonel Commanding. Our army bivouacked upon the battle-field, and this morning (August 31) it is raining hard, as it always does after a heavy cannonade, making everybody uncom- fortable. Eichardson has appropriated the battery that Kemper captured yesterday, pi-eferring the new guns to his old ones. Yesterday Gen. Lee sent the following order to Gen. Longstreet, who referred it to Col. Walton: — The General commanding directs that you economize greatly your ammunition of all kinds, but especially artillery, as it cannot be re- placed immediately. By order of Gen. Lee, E. H. CHILTON, A. A. G. THE WASHINOTOX ARTILLEUY. 127 All the battle-field orders that we receive are written on little scraps of paper, torn sometimes from memoran- dum-books, without envelopes. TTe occupy ourselves riding about the field, observing the effects of the battle, which has been fought on the same ground fought over in July last, with the positions of the opponents reversed. The dead are lying thickly around, and where the Fifth Texas encountered the Fifth Xew York Zouaves, the dead of the latter are distinguished by their gay uniforms. We were told that the body of the adjutant had been identified. Our forges have been kept busy all day repairing damages, and shoeing the horses. In the afternoon we received the foUovping order : — Head-quaetees, Aug. 31, 1862. CoLOiTEL : — General Longstreet wishes you to move your batteries after the column this evening to Sudley Ford, halting and parking just this side of the ford. Yours truly, G. 11. SOEEEL, A. A. G. Coi.. Walton comcCg, etc. Get a guide and take the shortest route to the ford. All the bat- teries that are not with the brigades are to be brought on by you. G. M. SOEEEL, A. A. G. "We bivouacked at Sudley Ford. On September 1st all the army crossed Bull Run at Sudley Ford, moving towards Germantown. Gen. Lee has taken to his ambulance, as his hurt wrist, sprained yes- terday, does not permit him to control his horse. Jackson is movino- at the head of the columns, and trying to get in on the flank of Pope at Fairfax Court-House. At Chan- 128 THE WASHINGTON ARTILLERY. tilly he encountered the enemy, and had a sharp engage- ment in a driving rain. Ex-Governor Smith, of Virginia, — "Extra Billy " as he is called, — veas the cause of much merriment to-day. Although wearing his uniform as a Colonel, he insists on sporting a high beaver hat of the stove-pipe order, and a blue cotton umbrella. To-day, while it was raining, he rode about with his umbrella raised, and on all sides came the cry from the troops : " Come out of that umbrel ; I see your legs ! Come out of that hat ; want it to boil the beans in," etc., etc. Gen. Phil. Kearney was killed to-day, and his body is in our hands, lying upon the porch of a cabin near the road- side. He is a very soldierly-looking man, with heavy mustache and goatee; one arm is gone, — lost at the gates of Mexico. Lee, Longstreet, and many others, knew him well. He was killed in the thick woods at dark. Having evidently mistaken our troops for his own he rode up to our lines, and asked, " AVhat troops are those? " The reply came, "Louisiana Brigade ! " At that he turned his horse at full speed to escape, when a shot fired after him brousrht him to the ground. On the morning of the 2d his body was returned to the enemy, under flag of truce, together with his horse. The weather is now clear and cool. I rode forward to see friends in the Louisiana brigade, and saw Col. Penn, Tom Morgan, Flower, and others. JNIy old and intimate friend, Eugene Janin, was killed on the 30th, while charg- ing: with his men.^ 1 Eugene Janin was the son of the late Louis Janin, Esq., one of the most distinguished and learned members of the Louisiana and Washington city bar THE WASBINGTON ARTILLERY. 129 Three days' rations ordered to be cooked. On the 3d of September the army marched at daylight, and bivou- acked at Dranesville. The two corps of the army are now united, and the e.nemy is peeping over his forts in front of Washington. " On to Maryland ! " is now the cry, and the heads of columns are directed towards the Potomac, — the First corps bivouacked near Leesburg. On the 5th of Septem- ber the march was resumed, and the banks of the Potomac reached. On the 6th the army began early in the morning to ford the river into Maryland. a contemporary of Grimes, Roselius, S. S. Prentiss, and Benjamin, a gentleman of the old French school ; he bore a national reputation. The captain of Eugene's company, Company C, Capt. T. N. PoweU, having been shot through both thighs on the 29th, Eugene had command of his company on the 30th, and early in the engagement had been wounded slightly in the hand or arm. When the enemy made their last determined assault upon Jackson's front they came close to a common fence which separated the two opposing lines, and over which the engagement raged the fiercest. Soon the enemy began to scatter, and Janin, observing this, climbed the fence, calling upon his company to follow hi^i, and tried to seize the enemy's colors just in front. He had almost accomplished his object when he was struck by a bullet full in the forehead, and was killed instantly. But his death was not unavenged, for the Federal soldier who had shot him was bayoneted by a soldier named Burns, of Company D, Tenth Louisiana regiment, who had followed Janin's lead. On the 18th of August, in a pleasant letter wi-itten from camp on the Eapidan, he said, " The banks of most of the little brooks about here are lined with mint, suggestive of the ' Sazarac ' and happier days ; but whiskey and sugar are scarce ai-ticles, or I would drink copious libations to the health of yourself and other absent friends." He adds : " I presume the expected battle cannot be far distant. "We have about 80,000 men up here of the oldest troops of the Confederacy, led by its most experienced generals. Bumside has joined Pope, and between the two they doubtless can bring 100,000 men in the field ; but the difference between the character of the troops will more than compensate for the diflference of numbers." Little did he think that in the " expected battle " he would be called upon to offer up his young life upon the altar of country. He died, as he had lived, a brave and noble gentleman. He was buried upon the field where he fell. 130 THM WASHINGTON ARTILLERT. CHAPTEE Vn. "MARYLAND, MY MARYLAND." Ejtplosion of Ammunition. — Boonesboro. — Hagerstown. — Dr. Ma- guire. — Jackson to Harper's Ferry. — D. H. Hill at Boonesboro. — Sharpsburg. — Lost Order of Gen. Lee. — Washington Artillery again in Battle. — Longstreet and Staff as Gunners. AFTER all the batteries were safely across the Potomac this morniDg, I immediately straggled, with Kur- sheedt and "BliflFkins," to get something to eat, as of late the army has been on short rations, living mostly on roasting ears of corn, plucked from the fields on the march. We call this, even now, the " Green-corn Campaign." Every one we meet says he is a " rebel," and we are most hospitably received wherever we go. We get plenty to eat and to drink. The young ladies are wild to see Gen. Lee, and we agree to find him for them ; so in the afternoon a caravan is made up of all the old family car- riages in the country, and filled with pretty girls, and we escort them to where " Uncle Robert " is resting. He is immediately surrounded, and kissed, and hugged, until the old gentleman gets very red in the face, and cries for mercy. We young ones look on, and only wish they would distribute those favors a little more "permiscus," so to speak ; but the fair ones, though coy, are very agreeable, and we each forthwith select one whose colors we shall wear TEE WASHINGTON ARTILLERY. 131 until we reach the next town. But all pleasures have an end, and the bugle sounds "Forward," and away we march upon the soil of Maryland, wondering if she is now going to "breathe and burn." " Maryland, my Maryland ! " On the 7th of September we crossed the Monocacy river, and encamped near Frederick. Jackson's " foot cavalry '' has been here before us, and has gobbled all the plunder ; but we found a grocer, a good, sensible fellow, with " rebel sympathies," and we invested a few hundred dollars, "Confederate scrip," in coffee, sugar, whiskey, Scotch ale, champagne, and a few other " necessaries of life," much to the disgust of his partner, who did not take a bit of stock in "Jeff Davis," and who felt remarkably sore when the last of his stock of gro- ceries, was exchanged for Confederate notes. We told him when Maryland began to "bum" they would be good in New York for gold. Oh, what a time we had in camp that night ! Oh, my ! ! Green-corn dinners, hard marches, thirst and fatigue, — all were forgotten. " Champagne flowed like water " (not too much water, but just enough) > the " crys- tal goblets were filled to the brim," and we " sipped the nectar," and felt mighty good, not to express it in stronger terms. Final result, by a mental calculation, a headache in the early dawn ; but a plunge in the cold waters of the Monocacy brought us about all right again. We are encamped (the two reserve batteries of the Washington Artillery) in a beautiful grove of oaks. On one side of us the head-quarters of Gen. Longstreet are 132 THE WASHINGTON ARTILLERY. established, and with him is Gen. Lee. On the other side " Stonewall " has pitched his tents. The latter passes our camp and our tent several times a day. " Old Jack," as the boys call him, is rather an ungainly person on foot. It is only when the roar of battle breaks forth that his eye lights up and he looks the " mighty man of war " he is. He told Gen. Longstreet that "he (L.) was the only commanding officer he ever knew who had a body guard of artillery." He thought it a good joke, — it was for " old Jack." The engineers are destroying the railroad bridges across the river, and Gen. Lee has issued a proclamation to the people of Maryland, asking them to come and "breathe and burn." They haven't burned much so far.^ 1 Heab-quakters Abmt Northern Virginia, Near Frederick, Sept. 8, 1862. To THE People of Mabtland : — It is right that you should know the purpose that has brought the army under my command within the limits of your State, so far as that purpose concerns yourselves. The people of the Confederate States have long watched with the deepest sympathy the wrongs and outrages that have been inflicted upon the citizens of a Commonwealth allied to the States of the South by the strongest social, poli- tical, and commercial ties. They have seen, with profound indignation, their sister State deprived of eveiy right, and reduced to the condition of a conquered province. Under the pretence of supporting the Constitution, but in violation of its most valuable provisions, your citizens have been an'csted and imprisoned upon no charge, and contrary to all forms of law. The faithful and manly protest against this outi-age, made by the venerable and illustrious Maiylanders, to whom, in better days, no citizen appealed for rights in vain, was treated with scorn and contempt. The government of your chief city has been usurped by armed strangers ; your Legisla,turo has been dissolved by the unlawful aiTest of its membei's ; freedom of the press and of speech has been suppressed ; words have been declared offences by an arbitrary decree of the Federal Executive, and citizens ordered to be tried by a militaiy commission for what they may dare to speak. Believing that the people of Maiyland possessed a spirit too lofty to submit to such a government, the people of the South have long wished to aid you in throwing off this foreign yoke, to enable you again to enjoy the inalienable rights of freedom, and restore independence and sovereignty to your State. THE WASHINGTON ARTILLERY. 133 The 10th of September was a bright, beautiful day, and the army of Lee, with bands playing and colors flying, marched through Frederick. The citizens crowded the streets and windows to see the troops pass. Ladies were demonstrative, and waved their handkerchiefs ; but the men looked coolly on as though afraid to express their feelings either way. The artillery boys marched in front of their batteries, and sang their choruses, led by Lieut. Frank McEli-oy. The army passed through in good order, and all in the merriest and jolliest mood possible, indulging occasionally in good-natured chaff, as was their wont. Any peculiarity of costume or surroundings of any person was sure to bring out some remark that would set whole regiments in a roar. On a small gallery stood a buxom young lady, with laughing black eyes, watching the scene before her ; on her breast she had pinned a small flag, the "stars and stripes." This was observed, and some soldier sang out, "Look h'yar, miss, better take that flag down ; we're awful fond of charging breast-works ! " This was carried down In obedience to this wish our anny has come among you, and is pi-epai'ed to assist you with the power of its arms in regaining the rights of which you have been despoiled. This, citizens of Maryland, is our mission so far as you are concerned. No consti'aint upon your fi-ee will is intended ; no intimidation will be allowed. "Within the limits of this ax-my, at least, Maiylanders shall once more enjoy their ancient freedom of thought and speech. We know no enemies among you, and will protect all of every opinion. It is for you to decide your destiny, freely, and without constraint. This army will respect your choice, whatever it may be, and while the South- ern people will rejoice to welcome you to youi' natural position among them, they wiU only welcome you when you come of your own fi-ee will. E. E. Lee, General Commanding. 134 THE WASHINGTON ARTILLERY. the line amid shouts of laughter. The little lady laughed herself, but stood by her colors.-^ The columns were soon upon the high road towards Boonesboro', and we were all struck with the beautiful scenery of this section of the country. As we climbed the hills long stretches of valley extended as far as the eye could reach in the direction of the Potomac. How still and peaceful it all looked; and yet armies were to tramp over it, and the desolating foot of war was to stamp out, ere long, all its sweet freshness. As we were marching to-day over the turnpike road the rear chest of a caisson exploded. Although against the orders of his officers, private Alsobrook seated himself for a ride upon the caisson and smoked his pipe. Presently came the explosion, and he was hurled twenty feet into the air, and fell upon the road, entirely denuded of all his clothing, and burned from head to feet. Strange to say he received no serious injuries. He had hardly been removed when the shells in the chest began to explode, and caused a stampede of officers and men. Then Corporals Kursheedt and Ruggles, of the First company, stepped to the front, and, going deliberately up to the smoking-chest, emptied their canteens of water upon the burning cotton used for packing; then taking the shells, some already ignited, threw them into the ditch of water alongside the road, where some exijloded, making an awful scatteration of mud and water, but fortunately hurting no one. The 1 The poet J. G. Whittier has written a poem called " Barbara Frietchie," the scene of his story being laid in Frederick on this day. K the events be relates occurred it is strange wo did not know it. " Poets have license, but not always reason." TBE WASHINGTON ARTILLERY. 135 danger over, the march was resumed. For this gallant act these corporals quite modestly received the warm approbation of their comrades, and no more was thought of it. But the " Victoria " and the " Cross of the Legion of Honor " have been pinned to a soldier's breast for acts of lesser heroism. On the 11th the march was continued towards Boonesboro' and Hagerstown. We find that our welcome along the road is not cordial, and the " general rising" of "down-trodden Maryland " will not be on hand. On the 12th we reached Hagerstown, and find the people here are more demonstrative, and we have much polite attention shown us. Many young girls approached us as we marched through the streets, and presented us with beautiful flowers. We remember gratefully the kind at- tention of Dr. Maguire and his charming family. At Boonesboro' the command of Gen. D. H. HiU was left to guard Turner's Gap, and Jackson and A. P. BQll have marched towards Harper's Ferry, to take that place. We did some "shopping" in Hagerstown, devoting ourselves chiefly to the " dry-goods line," and bought water-proof cloth and some dress patterns to present to our lady friends in Richmond, where they were in great need of such things. I should have liked to carry a wagon-load back. One merchant had upon his top shelves, where they had lain for many years, about one hundred old-fashioned, bell- crowned beaver hats, with long nap upon them, just the stjde our fathers wore, and caricaturists are wont to place upon the head of Brother Jonathan. These were discovered by some funny fellow, who appeared upon the street with one upon his head. The new "mode" took like 136 TBE WASHINGTON ARTILLERY. wildfire, — as new fashions always do, — and the store was soon relieved of the stock of beavers, and the streets were thronged with men with the new " Brother Jonathan " hat. They wore them upon the march, and went into the battle of Antietam with this most peculiar head-gear for warriors. On the 13th it was reported that a cavalry skirmish had occurred at Frederick, and that McClellan with a large army, was following in our wake. We found excellent lager beer and cigars in Hagerstown, and the " secessionists " entertained us hospitably. On the 14th the enemy, under McClellan, reached Turner's Gap, near Boonesboro', and attacked D. H. Hill's division of 3,000 men. Long- street's corps marched at daylight from Hagerstown to his relief. McClellan has caught us in a bad fix, for Jackson and A. P. Hill are still away at Harper's Perry. Our column (Longstreet's ) moves as fast as it can, and the firing at Boonesboro' is distinctly heard. As we'reached the outskirts of Boonesboro', at 3 o'clock, we met an ambu- lance, conveying the body of Gen. Garland, who had been killed during the afternoon. Upon reaching the gap, two divisions (D. R. Jones's and Hood's) of Longstreet's corps were sent up the mountain to aid D. H. Hill ; but it soon became manifest that our forces were not sufficient to resist McClellan's efltire army, and, in view of this, Gen. Lee, at dark, ordered the troops to withdraw. Gen. Pitz Lee, of the cavalry, estimate McClellan's force at 100,000 men.i 1 As we have now reached the point at which the nucleus of Lee's ai-my has taken position in front of Sharpsburg, while two divisions of McClellan's army have formed up for the attack, the time seems to have come for some remarks upon the character of the two armies. There is no occasion for saying much about the rank and file of either side, for the soldierly qualities of both "are too well known. After eighty years of peace, the surface of which had been THE WASHINGTON' ARTILLERY. 137 At 11 P.M. Longstreet and D. H. Hill, having been withdrawn, are marched in the direction of the Potomac to Sharpsburg, so that they may connect with Jackson and Hill when they shall come from Harper's Ferry. The road is blocked with wagons and our movements are necessarily slow. Gen. Lee and staff pass by and urge every one to move along as fast as possible. Reports are received that the enemy's cavalry occupies Sharpsburg. We reached the vicinity of that town early in the morn- ing of the 15th, crossed the Antietam by a stone bridge, and formed line of battle along the lange of hills between the town and the stream, with our backs to the Potomac' ■ scarcely ruffled by the war of 1812 and the Mexican war, the men of the North and of the South had shown that they still possessed the soldierly qualities of the Anglo-Saxon race. For fourteen months they had been opposed to each other, and from the first and second Bull E,un, at 'Williamsburg; and Fair Oaks, and Gaines's Mill and Malvern Hill, and in all the campaigning which came between the first clash of arms and the last struggle at South Mountain, they had dis- played intelligence, courage, endurance, tenacity, and patriotism. The qualities which enabled the South to win the first Bull Run, and had made Massachusetts men " stand in the evil hour " at Ball's Bluff, had been developed and disci- plined by the experience of war, and Lee and McClellan now had each an instru- ment to work with, which had been not perfected, but much bettered, by the tempering process of the field. When we pass from the men to the commanders there is more to be said. 1 Lee had Longsti'eet, and D. H. Hill, and Hood, and Stuart with him, while' Jackson, A. P. Hill,McLaws, Anderson, and 'Walker, were hastening to join him. McClellan had, for corps commanders. Hooker and Sumner, and Porter and Franklin, and Bumside and Mansfield, while his division commanders were Cox, Couch, Doubleday, French, Greene, Hatch, Meade, Men-eU, Richardson, Eick- etts, Eodman, Scdgwicli, Slocum, 'W. F. Smith, Sturgis, Willcox, and Williams. K a student of military history familiar with the characters who figured in the war of secession, but happening to be ignorant of the story of the battle of the Antietam, should be told that the men we have named held the high com- mands there, he would say that with anything like an equality of forces the Con- federates must have won ; for their leaders were men who made great names in the war, while the Federal loaders were, with few exceptions, men who never became conspicuous, or became conspicuous only through failure. Their names are for the most part unknown to the public, and few can say who among them ai'e alive or dead. — Oen. F. W. Palfrey, p. 52. 138 THE 'WASBINOTON ARTILLERY. On the opposite shore of the Antietam the banks are quite steep, and afFord good position for artillery. Long- street's corps forms on the right of the main road, and D. H. Hill on the left. All the batteries present are placed in position along the ridge. Longstreet says, "Put them all in, every gun you have, long range and short range." The guns of the Washington Artillery were posted as follows : on the ridge east of Sharpsburg, and on the right of the turnpike which runs through the town, was the First company, under Capt. Squires, Lieuts. E. Owen, Galbraith, and Brown, with two 3-inch rifles and two 10-pounder Par- rotts ; on Squires's right came the Third company, under command of Capt. Miller, Lieuts. A. Hero and McElroy, with four 12-pounder Napoleons ; across a ravine on the right, in an orchard in front of Gen. D. R. Jones's division, was the Second company, under Capt. Richardson, Lieuts. Hawes, Britton, and DeEussey, with two 12-pounder Napo- leons and two 12-pounder howitzers ; near Eichardson, and still farther to the right, was the Fourth company, under Capt. Eshleman, Lieuts. Norcom, Battles, and Apps, with two 6-pounder bronze guns and two 12-pounder howit- zers. On the ridge near the First company were the bat- teries of Bachman and Eiley, and here Gen. Lee established head-quarters . ^ A courier arrives in hot haste, with news that Jackson 1 The National Cemetery at Sharpsbm'g 13 situated upon the crest of a hill to the eastward of the town, and just outride the houses. It fronts upon the main road from the town to Keedj-sville, and lies on the southerly side of the road. It commands a Tiew of remarkable beauty and extent. Within its enclosure is a small mass of limestone, upon which it is said Lee stood to direct the battle. Antielam and Fredericksburg. P-vlfkey,^. 50. THE WASHINGTON ARTILLERY. 139 has captured Harper's Ferry, with its garrison of 12,000 men, 70 pieces of artillery, and 13,000 small arms. "This is indeed, good news," said Gen. Lee ; "let it be announced to the troops ; " and staff officers rode at full gallop down the line, and the announcement was answered by great cheering. Our lines were scarcely formed when the enemy appeared upon the opposite bank of the Antietam, and our artdlery opened upon him a few guns, just to let him know that we were going no further, and were at bay. Couriers were sent to Jackson and Hill to come to us as soon as possible. Our numbers in their absence are fear- fully small, hardly 15,000 men, being those of Longstreet, D. H. Hill, and Stuart's cavalry; and McClellan has 100,000 ; but they must be but hastily raised militia regi- ments, and don't count for much. Where do all these men come from? Pope had but 50,000 after the battle at Groveton last month. All this day our thin line faced the whole of McClellan 's army, and it closed with a little artillery practice on each side. The Colonel and I quartered ourselves in a dwelling- house on the edge of the town. Gen. Toonibs was under the same roof, and Gens. Lee and Longstreet were in a house on the opposite side of the street. For some unknown reason Gen. Lee expressed his belief that there would not be much fighting on the morrow. He did not then know, as we learned afterwards, that McClel- lan held the key to all his movements, by having in posses- sion a most important order, lost by Gen. D. H. Hill at 140 THE WASHINGTON ARTILLERY. Frederick, and expected, from the information obtained, to crush Lee's army. McClellan was reported as saying, " If I don't crush Lee now, you may call me whatever you please." ^ At daylight, on the morning of the 16th, the enemy is 1 Major Marshall, of Gen. Lee's staff, mentioned to me as one of the greatest misfortunes which has happened to them during the war (greater, he thought, than the faU of Now Orleans) , the accidental loss, through carelessness, by a gen- eral of division, of a very important order of Gen. Lee's. McClellan, who had been slowly and carefully feeling his way, totally ignorant of Gen. Lee's plans and the whereabouts of his main force, is said to have exclaimed, on finding this order, " Well, if I don't destroy Lee this time, you may call me what you like ;" and he immediately pushed on as fast as he could march, and caught the Con- federates befoi-e they were ready. The drawn battle of Sharpsburg, or Antietam Creek, followed ; and Lee, not destroyed, but thwarted in the main object of his campaign, soon afterwards recrossed the Potomac. In the meantime, however, Jackson had captured Harper's Feny, with its garrison of 12,000 men and im- mense stores, so that Lee stiU reaped some advantage from his ably-conceived plan of campaign. McClellan alludes to this matter, in his evidence before Con- gress on the conduct of the war, in the following terms : — " When at Frederick we found the original order issued to Gen. D. H. Hill by direction of Gen. Lee, which gave the orders of march for the whole army, and developed their intentions. The substance of the order was, that Jackson was to move from Frederick by the main Hagerstown road, and, leaving it at some point near Middleburg, to cross the Potomac near Sharpsburg, and en- deavor to capture the garrison of Martinsburg, and cut off the retreat of the gar- rison of Harper's Ferry in that du'ection. Gen. McLaws was ordered, with his own command and the division of Gen. Anderson, to move out by the same Ha- gerstown road, and gain possession of the Maiyland heights, opposite Harper's Feny. Gen. Walker, who was then apparently somewhere near the mouth of the Monocacy, was to move through Lovettsville, and gain possession of Lou- don's height, thus completing the investment of Harper's Ferry. Gen. Long- sti'eet was ordered to move to Hagerstown with Hill, to serve as a rear-guard. Their reseiTC trains were ordered to take a position either at Boonesboro' or Hagerstown, I have now forgotten which. It was directed in the same order, that after Jackson, Walker, McLaws, etc., had taken Harper's Ferry, they were to rejoin the main army at Hagerstown or Boonesboro'. That order is important in another sense. It shows veiy plainly that the object of the enemy was to go to Pennsylvania, or at least to remain in Maryland. Upon learning the contents of this order I at once gave orders for a vigorous pursuit," etc. Singularly enough, the same general lost an equally important order before the seven days' fighting around Richmond, and it was found on a prisoner who was captured at Gaines's Mill. Unaware, perhaps, of its importance, he had not sent it on to head-quarters, or it would have done incalculable mischief. — Boss's Camps and Cities of the Confederate States. THE WASHmOTOK ARTILLERY. 141 in plain view on the high ground upon the opposite bank of the Antietam. His batteries are in position. They open fire, and become annoying. We reply with Squires's, Bachman's, and Edey's batteries of long-range guns ; but the distance is too great to make a duel effective, and the firing is stopped by order of Gen. Lee. The long-range guns of the enemy, however, make their shot whistle over our heads, and plunge into the town, setting fire to some houses. Eiding through the town, to find Gen. Longstreet, I met Gen. Lee on foot, leading his horse by the bridle. It was during the artUlery firing, and the shells of the enemy were falling in close proximity to him, but he seemed per- fectly unconscious of danger. He directed us to keep the artillery ammunition for the enemy's infantry only.'^ During this evening, 16th, Gen. Jackson arrived with EweU's division (Gen. Lawton commanding), and Jack- son's division (Gen. J. R. Jones commanding), and his men were placed on the left of Gen. Hood, who had been sent over to the left from our extreme right, and had formed on the left of D. H. HOI. A battery of the enemy opened fire upon Jackson's division, but it was silenced in a few minutes by a well-directed fire from Poague's battery. ' Tuesday, the 16th, was a tenibly hot day in its early hours, with a burning sun and no breeze ; but at about eleven the sun became overcast, and a little air stin-ed from time to time. It was a day of mere idleness throughout for a large part of the army, and no one but the gunners had anything to do in the foj*e- noon. We lay about on the eastern slope of the ridge which interposed between us and the valley of the Antietam, and occasionally we would go to the crest of the i-idge to see what we could see. There was plenty to see, but unfortunately . that was not all of it. The Confederate batteries were wide awake, and their practice was extremely good, and projectiles flew over the crest so thickly that mere curiosity was not sufficient to keep any one there long." — Gen. F. W- Palfrey, p. S6. 142 THE WASHINGTON ARTILLERY. Other batteries opened soon after upon our lines, and the firinff continued until dark. About 10 P.M. Lawton's and Trimble's brigades relieved Hood, who had been more or less engaged during the evening. This afternoon our strength was less than 18,000 men, consisting of the commands of Longstreet, D. H. Hill, the two divisions under Jackson, and two brigades under Walker. Couriers were sent to hurry up A. P. Hill, Anderson, and McLaws, from Harper's Ferry. The troops slept that night upon their arms, disturbed only by occasional picket-firing. The Federal corps of Gen. Hooker had crossed the An- tietam in the afternoon, and were bivouacking in front of our lines. We made our head-quarters in the Dutch Reformed church in the town where our friends, the " surgeons," have also established tliemselves. They treated us to a good supper, and M'e smoked our pipes, and spread our blankets within the chancel and slept soundly. At daybreak on the 17th skirmishing commenced in front of our left, and the Federal batteries opened a severe and damaging fire. This was replied to by Poague, Car- penter, Brockenbrough, Eaines, Caskie, and Wooding. About sunrise. Hooker's corps, now being reinforced by Mansfield's corps, advanced to the edge of the woods on the eastern' side of the Hagerstown turnpike. Batteries were opened in front, and for an hour a terrific storm of shot, shell, and musketry was poured into our men. Gen. Jones, commanding Jackson's division, was wounded, and _'*' .O .,M,trcett Ct/ii^/e^e r O'ia 'Z'ro «/C j S'6€£ayezZ STr^-'^j^ TSE WASHINGTON ARTILLERY. 143 compelled to leave the field, and the command devolved upon Gen. Starke. With heroic spirit our lines advanced, at times driving the enemy, and at times being compelled to fall back before his destructive fire. At this early hour Gen. Starke was killed. More than half the brigades of Lawton and Hays were killed and wounded, and more than a third of Trimble's, and all the regimental commanders in these brigades, except two, were killed or wounded. Thinned in their ranks and their ammunition ex- hausted, Jackson's division, and the brigades of Lawton, Hays, and Trimble, retired, and Hood again took the po- sition from which he before had been relieved. Early now took command of Ewell's division, and de- termined to hold his ground if reinforcements could be sent to him. A small command under Col. Grigsby kept in check the advance of the enemy on the left flank, while Gen. Early attacked, with great vigor and gallantry, the columns on his right and front. The force in front was giving way under this attack, when another heavy column of Federal troops was seen moving across the plateau on his left flank. It was Sedgwick's division of Sumner's corps, which had crossed the Antietam after Mansfield, and joined in the fight, advancing with spirit near the woods in which was the Dunker church, planting a bat- tery across the turnpike near the edge of the wood. But now the expected reinforcements come with a rush upon the field, — Semmes's, Kershaw's, Barksdale's, and Cobb's brigades of McLaws's division, — and the whole, including Grigsby's command, now united, charge upon 144 THE wAsmNOTOJsr artillery. the enemy, checking his advance, and then drive him back with great slaughter at all points, sweeping the woods with perfect ease. The enemy was driven not only through the woods, but over a field in front, over two high fences beyond, and into another body of woods, more than half a mile distant from the ground where the fight began, our forces regaining and occupying their original position. No other advance, beyond demonstrations, was made by the enemy on the left. This was about 10 o'clock.' Sedgwick's Second division of Sumner's corps, having crossed the Antietam and attacked our left under Jackson, and been beaten back, the Pirst and Third divisions of the same corps, under French and Richardson, followed, and, moving southerly and parallel to the Antietam, encountered three small brigades of D. H. Hill's command, near the EuUet House, and, pushing them back, advanced upon the centre of Lee's line. The brigades were Colquitt's, Ripley's, and Garland's (under McRea), and they were fighting gallantly when Capt. Thompson's Fifth North Carolina cried out, "They are flanking us ! " This cry spread like an electric flash along the ranks, bringing up recollections of the flank fire at South Mountain. In a moment they broke and fell to 1 " Thus," says Gen. Palfrey, " by about 10 o'clock the successes of the morn- ing were lost. Our lines had been withdrawn almost altogether to the east of the turnpike, though we had more or less of a lodgment near the Dunker church, and some of Sedgwick's men were west of the turnpike in the neio-h- borhood of the Miller House, or nearly as far north. Two corps and one division of the Federal army had been so roughly handled that but small account could be made of them in estimating the available force remaining." And it was here some old opponents were met, for Gen. Palfrey adds : " The Fifteenth and the Twentieth Massachusetts had been at Ball's Bluff, but their fate at Antietam was harder yet." TBE WASHINGTON ARTILLERY. 145 the rear. Thus three of Hill's brigades had been broken, and much demoralized, and all the artillery had been with- drawn from his front. Gens. Eodes's and G. B. Anderson's brigades still held the line on an old road, and some stragglers had been gath- ered up and placed upon their left. It was now apparent that the enemy was massing on Hill's front, and that their grand attack would be made upon his position, which was the centre of our line. Reinforcements were sent for, but before any arrived a heavy force, consisting of the divisions of French, Richardson, and Smith's division of Franklin's Sixth corps, advanced " in three parallel lines with all the precision of a parade day." They met with a galling fire, however, recoiled, fell back, and finally lay down behind the crest of a hill and kept up an irregular fire. By some unfortunate misunderstanding of orders Gen. Rodes's brigade was moved to the rear, and finally retreated in confusion. Gen. D. H. Hill immediately intercepted them and rallied a few men, not more than forty in all, and the remainder of the brigade disappeared from the field. This small number, together with some Mississippians and North Carolinians, about one hundred and fifty in all, were stationed behind a small ridge, leading from the Hagers- town road. Gen. G. B. Anderson still nobly held his ground, but the enemy began to pour through the Gap made by the retreat of Rodes. Anderson himself was mortally wounded, and his brigade was totally routed. Col. Bennet, of the Fourteenth, and Major Sillers, of the Thirteenth, North Carolina regiments, rallied a portion of their men, and the Third Arkansas and Twenty-seventh 146 THE WASHINGTOlSr ARTILLERY. North Carolina, of Walker's division, steadfastly held their ground. The enemy crossed the old road, which we had occupied in the morning, and took position in a cornfield and orchard in advance of it. They had now got within a few hundred yards of the hill which commanded Sharpsburg and our rear. AiFairs looked very critical. Longstreet, who had ridden rapidly to the centre, saw at once the condition of affairs, and sent for a battery. The Third company Washington Artillery, Capt. Miller, was ordered to him. As Miller went into position a well-directed shot of the enemy's battery . exploded one of his caissons ; he immediately unlimbered and opened upon the enemy, who was advancing in force. This attack was met by the troops of Walker, Miller's battery of the Washington Artillery, and two guns of Boyce's South Carolina battery, and the enemy was driven back in some confusion. Our weak line, with enthusiasm, made an effort to pursue. Col. Cooke, of the Twenty-seventh North Caro- lina, very gallantly charged with his own regiment, but his supply of ammunition being exhausted, and he being un- unsupported, returned to his position in line. Miller suffered considerably under the fire of the Fed- erals, losing two of his gunners, and several cannoneers were wounded. The enemy having fallen back beyond effective range our guns ceased firing. In about twenty minutes the enemy advanced again. Cooke stood with empty guns, and waved his colors to show that his troops were in position. Miller played upon their ranks with cannister. Lieut. Hero was wounded, THE WASHINGTON- ARTILLERY. 147 and Lieut. McElroy having been sent to watch the enemy's movements on the right, Capt. Miller found himself the only officer with his battery. With only men enough left to work a section, he opened upon the enemy with two guns with fine effect, and placed the remaining section under Sergt. Ellis, directing him to take it completely under cover. He then continued the action until his ammunition was nearly exhausted, when Sergt. Ellis brought up the remaining caissons. The enemy had made two determined attempts to force our line, and had been twice signally repulsed. They were now advancing the third time, a little to the right of the last, when Sergt. Ellis, who had succeeded in rallying some infantry to his assistance, gallantly brought one of the guns of his section into action on ililler's left, and the two batteries played upon the enemy over the heads of R. H. Anderson's men, who had come to their support. The enemy was again signally repulsed, and withdrew. '^ Mill- er's guns remained in position, supported by the troops of R. H. Anderson, until about 4 o'clock, when he withdrew to refill his chests. This defence of the centre lasted an hour and a half. When Miller became short-handed, by reason of his loss of cannoneers, the staff officers of Gen. Longstreet, 1 Musketiy fire ceased about 1 o'clock. Eichardson, still holding Piper's house, withdrew his line to the crest of a hill, and at about the same time re- ceived a mortal wound. Why he withdrew his line, and whether bis wound was the cause of the cessation of operations at this part of the ground does not appear. Hancock was placed in command of his division, A sharp ai"tillery contest followed the withdrawal of Richardson's line, in which a section of Rob- ertson's horse battery, of the Second artilleiy, and Graham's battery, of the First artillery, were engaged on the Federal side." — Palfrey, p. 101. 148 THE WASHINGTON ARTILLERY. Majors Sorrel, Fairfax, and Thomas Walton, dismounted from their horses and helped work the guns. Sorrel and Walton were wounded, and the horse of Fairfax was killed. Gen. Longstreet directed the fire of the guns in person, and by example animated the soldiers near hira.^ The corps of Hooker, Mansfield, Sumner, and Smith's division of Franklin's corps (Sixth) had been rendered Jiors du combat, and had no spirit in them.^ ^ One line of the enemy's infantry came so near us, tliat we could see their colonel on horseback waving his men on, and then even the stripes on the corporal's arms. How it made our blood dance and nerves quiver as we saw their colors floating steadily forward, and how heroically and madly we toiled at our guns ! Our men worked that day desperately, almost despairingly, be- cause it looked for a time as if we could not stpp the blue wave from coming forward, although we were tearing it to pieces with canister and shell. Long- street was on horseback at our side, sitting side-saddle fashion, and occasionally making some practical remark about the situation. He talked earnestly and gesticulated to encourage us, as the men of the detachments began to fall around our guns, and told us he would have given us a lift if he had not that day crippled his hand. But, crippled or not, we noticed that he had strength enough left to carry his flask to his mouth, as probably everybody else did on that terribly hot day, who had any supplies at command to bring to a carry.^ Finally the blue line disappeared from our front, and we managed to hobble off with our pieces, though with the loss of a good many men, horses, and some wheels of our gun carriages. — Bartlett. ^ The heavy masses of the enemy again moved forward, being opposed by only four pieces of artillery, supported by a few hundred men belonging to the different brigades, rallied by Gen. D. H. Hill and others, and part^ of Walker's and Anderson's commands ; Col. Cooke, with the Twenty-seventh North Carolina regiment of Walker's brigade, standing boldly in line without a car- tridge. The firm front presented by this small force, and the well-directed fire of the artilleiy under Cax^t. Miller, of the Washington Artillery, and Capt. 1 Gen. Longstreet says, in his report, that the enemy on the 17th renewed an attack commenced the night before on Hood's brigade, — a handful compared with those before him. Hood fought dcaper- ately until Jackson and Walker came to his reHcf, the former Boon moving off to fla.nk the enemy's right. The enemy "now threw forward his masses against my left; met by Walker, two pieces of Cnpt. Miller's battery of the Washington Artillery, and two of Boyce's battery. The enemy was driven back in some confusion ; an effort was made to pursue, but our line was too weak. From this moment our centre was extremely weak. The enemy's masses again moved forward, and Cook's rcimcnt etood with empty guns, moving his colors to show his regiment was in position. The artillery played upon the enemy with canister. Their lines hesitated and after an hour and a half retired. " Another attack was quickly made a little to the right of the last. Capt. Miller, turning his pieces upon these lines, and playing upon them with round shot {over the heads of R. H. Anderson's men) checked the advance, and Anderson's division, with the artillery, held the enemy in check until night." THE WASHINGTON ARTILLERY. 149 Hooker was wounded and Mansfield killed. There is little more to be said of the operations of the Federal right. The serious fighting there ended at about 1 o'clock. In the afternoon, in obedience to instructions from Gen. Lee, Gen. Jackson made a move towards the Potomac with a view of turning the enemy's right, but found his numerous artillery so strongly and judiciously posted as to render it inexpedient to hazard the attempt. At the close of the day Jackson held the ground he had held in the morning. Boyce*s South Carolina batteiy, checked the progress of the enemy, and in about an hour and a half he retired. Another attack was made soon afterwards, but was repulsed by Miller's guns, which continued to hold the ground until the close of the engagement, sup- ported by a part of E. H. Anderson's troops. — General Lee's report. 150 THE WASHINGTON ARTILLERY. CHAPTER Vm. ANTIETAM. Left Attack. — Burnside's Bridge. — A Ride for Gen. Lee. — Attack of Enemy. — Squires, Kichardson, and Eshleraan Engaged. — D. R. Jones's DiTision Pressed Back. — Arrival of A. P. Hill. — Garden's and Riley's Batteries Engaged.- — Defeat of Enemy. — Meeting of Generals. — Lee Dubs Longstreet his "Old War Horse." — Quiet Day after the Battle. — Army Crosses the Potomac. — Enemy Fol- lows. — Is Beaten Back. — March to Martinsburg. — Forces Engaged. — Address of Lee to the Army. "YXTHILE standing with Col. Walton in Squires's y V battery, about noon, Gen. Lee walked over to us. One hand was in a sling, it not having recovered from the accident at the second Manassas ; the other held his field-glass. He said, in his quiet way, " Well, Colonel, what do you make of the enemy : what is he going to do?" The Colonel replied, "They seem to be moving a battery more to our right." At this moment a courier rode up, holding in his hand a despatch, which he held out to the General, and, both of his hands being engaged, I took it from the courier and read it to him. It was as follows : "The enemy is moving a six-gun battery to our right, evidently with the intention of covering with it their crossing." It was signed "Johnson, Engineer Officer." "Yes," said the General, " I see they are. Colonel, can you spare this young officer (myself) to ride for me? None of my staff are present." Of course the Colonel said " Yes," TSM WASSINGTON ARTILLERY. 151 and I modestly awaited ray instructions, feeling consider- able pride that I was about to do something for Gen. Lee. Turning to me the General said, "Go to Gen. D. R. Jones, and tell him I wish that battery " — indicating with his field-glass the one he meant — "moved farther to the right, to cover the lower ford, where the enemy will soon endeavor to cross. Let it be done at once." Saluting, and spring- ing upon my horse, I plunged down the ravine, and up the other side to the orchard, found Gen. Jones, and delivered the order. " "Where is my chief of artillery ? " he asked. No one knew. " This is bad ; the battery must be changed at once ; Lieutenant, won't you do it for me ? " Of course I would, and went over the ground like a flash. I passed Richardson (Second company Washington Artillery), then firing at the enemy, who was endeavoring to cross the stone bridge opposite Toombs's brigade, and found that the battery indicated by Gen. Lee was our Fourth company, under Eshleman. Giving him his instructions, and leav- ing him in the act of receiving the first fire of the six-gun battery, I rode back to where I had left Gen. Lee, and, dismounting, reported " the order had been obeyed." He replied, "I see it has. Thank you, ' Gaptain.'" Of course I felt taller in stature for having ridden for " Uncle Robert " on a battle-field, and under a hot artillery fire, too, from the enemy's batteries on the opposite bank of the Antietam. From an early hour in the morning heavy masses of men had been observed in front of Gen. D. R. Jones's position, who endeavored to cross the Antietam at the lower bridge to attack the right wing of our army. Gen. Jones had 152 THE WASHINGTON ARTILLERY. stationed at the bridge, to prevent the enemy's crossing, two small regiments, the Second and Twentieth Georgia, numbering only 403 muskets, and Richardson's battery, Second company Washington Artillery. The attempt of the enemy to effect a passage was repulsed again and again, and he manoeuvred as if to cross below, at the "lower ford," where Eshleman, with the Fourth company Wash- ington Artillery had been posted by order of Gen. Lee. Jones's force at noon consisted of the two regiments of Toombs (Second and Twentieth Georgia), and the brigades of Kemper, Drayton, and Jenkins, the latter under command of Gen. Joseph Walker. Gen. Jones gave his strength in the early morning, with six brigades, as 2,430 men. At this time two more of Toombs's regiments, the Seventeenth and Fifteenth Georgia, joined him, accompanied by five companies of Anderson's brigade, and were at once placed at Gen. Toombs's disposal to aid in the defence of the bridge. Before, however, they could be made available for that purpose, the gallant Second and Twentieth Georgia, hav- ing repulsed five separate assaults, and exhausted their ammunition, fell back, leaving the bridge to the enemy. The advance troops of Gen. A. P. Hill were now coming on the field, and Mcintosh's battery, of Hill's division, was sent forward, and opened fire from the ridce. The enemy, now swarming over the bridge, received the fire of Squires's guns (First company Washington Artillery) from the hill east of the town, together with that of Garden's and Moody's batteries. Together they poured shell and canister into the heavy columns of the enemy, inflicting serious loss upon them as they deployed TSE WASHINGTON ARTILLERY. 153 in lines of battle for the assault ; but, undeterred, except momentarily, by this fire, he advanced in enormous masses to the assault of the heights. Sweeping up the crest they were mowed down by the fire of Richardson's, Brown's, and Mcintosh's batteries. They overcame, however, the tough resistance ofi^ered by the feeble forces opposed to them and gained the heights, capturing Mcintosh's battery. Kemper and Drayton were driven through the town. The Fifteenth South Carolina, Col. De Saussure, fell back slowly through the town, and in good order, forming the nucleus on which the brigade (Drayton's) rallied. Jenkins's brigade, under Gen. Walker, held its own, and from its position in the orchard poured a destructive fire on the enemy. Gen. Toombs, with a portion of his brigade, with Richardson's and Garden's batteries, joined Jones's troops, forming on their right. None too soon did the head of A. P. Hill's column reach the battle-field, at 2.30 P.M., having marched a dis- tance of seventeen miles in seven hours, from Harper's Ferry, coming by the road crossing the Antietam near its junction with the Potomac. Pender, in advance, was joined by Eshleman, with the Fourth company "Washington Ar- tillery, near the Blackford House, where he had been en- gaging the enemy at the "lower ford." Hill's line was immediately formed, with Pender and Brockenbrough on the extreme right, and Branch, Gregg, and Archer, extending to the left and connecting with Toombs, who had joined hands with D. R. Jones on his left. Gen. Garnett, with Pickett's brigade of only 200 154 THE WASHINGTON ARTILLERY. men and a few men he had picked up among many who had lost then- commands, came upon the field and joined Gen. Drayton. Quickly the line was formed to check the advance of the victorious enemy, — the Ninth corps of the Federal army, 14,000 strong, under Gen. Burnside. Hill's batteries, under Braxton, Pegram, and Crenshaw, were placed in position along the line, and guns from differ- ent batteries of the Washington Artillery and others, who had borne the brunt of the fighting all day long, having replenished their ammunition, were put in position to assist the movements of A. P. Hill to check the enemy. There were the Fourth company Washington Artillery, under Eshleman, four guns ; one rifle of the First com- pany, under Lieut. Galbraith ; one Napoleon of the Sec- ond company under Lieut. Britton ; two Napoleons of the Third company, under Lieut. McElroy, and two guns of Kiley's battery. These six guns were placed under com- mand of Capt. Miller, of Third company Washington Artillery : two 12-pounder howitzers of the Second com- pany, under Lieuts. Hawes and De Russey, and Capt. Garden's battery of four guns. The enemy was advancing in three lines of battle and in full tide of success, when, with a yell of defiance, Toombs and Archer charged ; all the guns along the line opened a furious fire. Mcintosh's battery was retaken, and the enemy was driven pell-mell, while Branch and Gregg, with their sturdy old veterans, held their ground and poured in destructive volleys, till the tide of the enemy surged back, and, breaking in confusion, passed out of sight. THE WASHINGTON ARTILLERY. 155 But 2,000 of Hill's "Light division" were engaged in this, the final conflict of our troops with the enemy upon this sanguinary field. At night Lee's army slept upon the ground it had occupied in the morning.^ This battle was fought against great odds, and such straggling of our men had not been seen before. The 1 It is now necessaiy to look to the other end of the Union Hne, held by the Ninth corps, under Gen. Burnside. This force lay massed behind the heights on the east bank of the Antietana, and opposite the Confederate right, which it was designed he should assail, after forcing the passage of the Antietam by the lower stone bridge. ....... Gen. McClellan, appreciating the full effect of an attack by his left, directed Burnside early in the morning to hold his troops in readiness to assault the bridge in his front. Then, at 8 o'clock, learning how much opposition had been devel- oped by Hooker, he ordered Burnside to carry the bridge, gain possession of the heights, and advance along their crest upon Sharpsbarg as a diversion in favor of the right. Longstreet, having removed the entire divisions of McLaws and "Walker from the Confederate right to the left, left on that entire wing but a single hostile divis- ion of 2,500 men, under Gen. D. E. Jones, and the force actually present to dis- pute the passage of the bridge did not exceedyowr hundred. Nevertheless, it was 1 o'clock before a passage was effected, and this beiag done, two hours passed be- fore the attack on the crest was made. This was successfully executed at 3 o'clock, the Shai-psburg ridge being taken, and a Confederate batteiy that had been delivering an annoying fire captured. (Mcintosh's batteiy.) It was one of the unfortunate results of the long delay in their operations on the left, that, just as this success was gained (taking the ridge and Shai-psburg) , the division of A. P. Hill, which Jackson had left behind to receive the surrender of Harper's Ferry, reached the field from that place by way of Shepherdstown, and, uniting his own reinforcement of 2,000 men with the troops of Jones, that had been broken through in the attack, he assumed the offensive, recaptured the bat- tery (Mcintosh's), and drove Burnside over all the ground gained, and to the shelter of the bluff bordering the Antietam. It was found that the losses on the Union side made an aggregate in killed and wounded of 12,600 men, while the Confederate loss proved to have been above 8,000. — Army of the Potomac, p. 221. Swinton. The enemy fled in confusion towards the river and bridge, making two or thi'ee efforts to rally, which were soon defeated by the vigorous charges of our troops, aided by Capt. Eichardson's batteiy (Second company Washington Ar- tillery) , which I ordered up immediately upon the recovery of the heights, and which, with its accustomed promptness and courage, was rapidly placed in posi- tion and action. The enemy, to cover his reti-eating columns, brought over the bridge a battery and placed it in position. I ordered Capt. Eichardson's batteiy to open upon it. 156 THE WASEINGTON ARTILLERY. forced marches had used the men up, and hundreds upon hundreds were unable to keep up with their colors. •In endeavoring to turn our left the enemy attacked with three full corps of their army, numbering at least 40,000 men. To have resisted this mass of men so successfully, with reduced numbers, shows the stuff our soldiers were made of. Leaving orders with the battery officers to bivouac where they had ended the battle, the Colonel and I rode to find Gen. Lee's head-quarters. Lieuts. John Britton and Edward Owen were severely wounded this evening, as were privates John Holmes, McCartney, and Michel. As we were riding through the fields an infantry soldier passed by, having in charge a Federal colonel of infantry, prisoner. We asked his name and regiment. He gave it as "Col. Jones, One Hundred and Twentieth Ohio Volun- teers, of Columbus, Ohio." I had known Col. Jones years before as captain of a militia company, styled the " Co- lumbus Fencibles ; " so we renewed our acquaintance under these remarkable circumstances. I relieved the infantry- man of his charge and took Col. Jones with us to Gen. and at the same time ordered the Fifteenth and Twentieth Georgia forward, who pursued the enemy so close to his guns as to bring them witliin range of musketry, which compelled his battery, after a few shots, to join his flying infantry, and retreat across the bridge. Capt. Richardson and his officers and men, of the Second company of "Washington Artillery, attached to ray own bri- gade, were conspicuous throughout the day for courage and good conduct. Capt. Richardson clnng to the infantry amid every danger, and, being nobly seconded on every occasion by his officers and men, largely contributed to every success. During the whole connection of this battery with my command its oificers and men have so conducted themselves everywhere — on the march, in the camp, and on the battle-field — as to meet and receive my special approbation. — Gen. B. Toombs's Official Report. THE WASEINOTON ARTILLERY. 157 Lee, where Col. Chilton endeavored to " pump " him ; but he knew nothing except that he was a "prisoner," and didn't exactly know how it all had happened. His regi- ment had gone to smash, — he knew that. I consigned him to the care of the provost-marshal, and bade him good-by. We found head-quarters established in an open field back of the town. A large number of general officers and staff- officers were assembled about Gen. Lee. The occasional crack of a rifle, the groans of wounded men being carried by on stretchers, the crackling of the timbers of a burning house near by, which cast a lurid glare upon the group, made it a scene not soon to be forgotten. Old " Stonewall " was talking to Gen. Lee when we ap- proached. The two Hills, Hood, Jones, and Early, were there. "But where is Longstreet?" Gen. Lee inquired anxiously. " I saw him at sundown, all right," said Col. Venable. Just then Longstreet rode up, smoking the cigar which he had held all day, unlighted, between his clenched teeth, as was his custom when business "was pressing and urgent." Gen. Lee stepped forward as Long- street dismounted, and, grasping him by the hand, said, " Ah ! here is Longstreet ; here's my old war-horse I Let us hear what he has to say ; " and they conversed in a low tone together. Everybody was saying what a pity " old Jack " had not been able to get around the flank of the enemy this after- noon ; but it could not be done on account of the superior positions of the Federal artillery, and their line having been extended to the banks of the Potomac. 158 TBE WASHINGTON ARTILLERY. Had it been accomplished we would have scored a great victory.' "We found our friends, " the surgeons," on the edge of the group ; took a "nip," lit our pipes and enjoyed a sooth- ing smoke, then sought our ambulance, after visiting Dr. Drew's field-hospital, ate a little supper, stowed ourselves in our blankets, and slept well. At daylight on the 18th it was reported that the enemy was preparing for another attack ; but Longstreet said, judging from the position in which they had massed their artillery on the heights across the Antietam, it appeared as though they were fearful Lee would attach them. Our guns were returned to their old positions east of the town, from which they had been forced back by Burnside last evening. We saw Gen. Jones at his position at the orchard, and found him exceeding sad, having learned from prisoners that his brother-in-law, Col. Kingsbury, was in the Federal attacking column and had been killed at the bridge. Some ammunition was received for the artillery this morning, but not enough for a long: eno;aK /A /ftrrJe* g*.f ■JtJy daises Oon/edefctte /itrces THE WASHINGTON ARTILLERY. 251 under him as he rode across the plain. Pickett, whose men were now well ia, and in the flush of victory they deserved, galloped down and implored the men to raUy. Many other officers did the same ; but it was all in vain. It was a panic such as will, at times, strike the best and bravest troops, and no efforts could iuduce them to form anew while under that terrific storm of fire. The division lost frightfully, but the worst effect was that Pickett's men, who had behaved so gloriously, were now left to fight alone against overwhelming odds. Encouraged by their success, the enemy, freshly rein- forced, now turned upon them with redoubled energy and courage. Pickett's men continued the charge without supports, and in sight of the enemy, and, moving steadily forward, leaped the breastworks, and, driving back the foe, planted their battle-flags upon eleven captured cannon, amid shouts of victory, — dearly won and short-lived victory. Then Pickett, who had so proudly said to Longstreet : " I shall lead my division forward, sir ! " when he reached the ridge his men had so gallantly charged, had but to look around him to see that the ground could not be held. His supports all gone, his men falling around him, his trusted Generals, Garnett, Armistead, and Kemper, and all the field-officers dead, or wounded unto death, his men fightino- over the guns with clubbed muskets and banner- staves, the enemy in front and on each flank, and crowding upon them in overwhelming numbers, he threw away his empty pistol, and, with his great soldier heart almost burst- ing, gave the order for his remaining braves to fall back. 252 TEE WASEINGTON ARTILLERY. But they had won undying fame by their glorious on- slaught ; and as long as this war is remembered so long will the charge of Pickett and his brave Virginians be spoken of with the same proud satisfaction with which Englishmen tell of the charge of the six hundred at Bala- klava. Wilcox's division, that had been engaged the previous day, was to have supported Pickett's right, and moved splendidly forward ; but, not observing an oblique move- ment of Pickett's that carried him to the left, Wilcox charged on, only to find himself confronting a very superior force of the enemy, and was compelled to fall back with heavy loss. The remnants of the attacking division who reached our lines in safety, resumed their old places in line of battle, and were ready to give the enemy a warm reception had he advanced from his works ; but he seemed satisfied with hav- ing bafifled us, and, with an occasional shot from our artillery, the battle on our right is over.' Our boys worked their • When Pickett's division was repulsecl, and the whole plain covei'ed with fugi- tives, we all expected that Wellington's command at Watei'loo, of " Up, guards, and at them ! " would be repeated, and that a, grand countercharge would be made. But General Meade had made no arrangements to give a return thrust. Msade rode leisurely over to the Fifth Corps, on the left, and told Sykes to send out and see if the enemy in his front was firm and holding on to their posi- tion. A brigade, preceded by skirmishers, was accordingly sent forward, but as Longsti-eet's troops were well fortified, they resisted the advance, and Meade — finding some hours had elapsed, and that Lee had closed up his lines, and was fortifying against him — gave up all idea of a counter-attack. He (General Lee) did not for a moment imagine that Meade would fail to take advantage of this golden opportunity to crush the army of Northern Virginia, and end the war. The fact is, Meade had no idea of leaving the ridge. I conversed the next THE WASHINGTON ARTILLERY. 253 guns splendidly to-day, and my leather bottles were passed around and received vrith pleasure. Our loss in the TTash- ington ArtUleiy, in kiUed and wounded, has been hea-sy : 3 privates killed; 3 officers and 20 privates wounded; 39 horses kUled. Our ammunition is weU-nicrh exhausted, and we have not enough in the caissons to fight two hours more. Lieut. C. H. C. Brown, who commanded the section of the First Company, TVashington Artillery, which fired the signal-guns to-da}', made the following report : — " 'WTien the Battalion TVashington Artillery was assigned its posi- tion on the 3d of July, commanding Cemetery Heights, my section was placed npon the right of all the artilleTy on the line. " It was assigned to me to fire the two signal-guns for the artillery duel. My right gun, under TV. T. Hardie, was directed by him on a bat- tery directly opposite our position, and, at a distance of from eight hun- dred to a thonsand yards, exploded a caisson. "The second gun, under Sergt. P. O. Pazende, fired at the same battery and exploded another. Tlie gunners had not compared dis- tance, range, or elevation. Of course the battery gave no further trouble in the action that followed. "When Picketfs division advanced, our firing ceased. Seeing I could be of no use in the position I was in, I advanced my guns to the open field in front of the right flank of Pickett's division to within three hundred yards of the enemy's lines, being enabled from my position to enfilade their entire line where I knew my guns did most excellent service. I was joined here by a gun of some North Carolina battery, name unknown, which, however did not stay long, as the enemy concen- trated a heavy fire upon us. morning with a corps commander who had just left him. He said, " ifeade says Tie iMnis he can hold out for part of another day here if they attack him." At 6.30 P.M. the firing ceased on the part of the enemy, and, although they retained their position, the next day the battle of Gettysburg was virtually at an end. — ChaneellorsvUle and Gettysburg. Doubleday. 254 THE WASHINGTON ARTILLERY. "When Pickett fell back, having exhausted all my canister, my guns were withdrawn. "While in this advanced position I was severely wounded, and left in the hands of the enemy when the army fell back. I think our guns were the furthest advanced of any on the field." This afternoon (3d July) the enemy made a desperate attack, with a force of cavahy, on the Emmittsburg road, against our right flank, where the brigades of Eobinson, Anderson, and Benning, of Hood's division, were posted. They charged through some fields op the left of the road, and were decimated by our fire, which encircled them. Stone fences or walls met them in almost every direction when they turned to retreat, and again and again they rode around in their vain endeavors to escape. To add to the slaughter, Maj. Henry's battalion of artillery, of eighteen guns, opened upon them from behind a stone- wall on the road. Gen. Farnsworth, one of the Federal commanders in the charge, was left upon the field, desperately wounded. It was related that when he was approached by some of our men, and was asked if he surrendered, he said, with a defiant air, " He would be d — d if he would," and, before he could be prevented, blew his own brains out with his revolver. It was a gallant charge of the cavalry, but foolhardy and disastrous. On the 4th of July, 1863, the rising sun shone on the thousands of dead and wounded men lying between the lines of the two contending armies. The Confederates stand firmly upon the ground held yesterday at the close of the battle. THE WASHINGTON ARTILLERY. 255 Batteries are in position, but with only a scanty supply of ammunition, but the enemy apparently evinces no curiosity as to our condition. At about noon I rode over to a hill where Longstreet has taken up his position to overlook the whole field. He is looking well, and seems evidently deter- mined to put on the best face possible. " What o'clock is it?" he asks. — "Eleven fifty-five " is my answer. " Gen- eral," I added, "this is the 'glorious fourth,' we should have a salute from the other side at noon." Twelve o'clock came, but no salute. " Their artUlery was too much crippled yesterday to think of salutes," said the General. " Meade is not in good spirits this morning." The General then went on to say that last evening, a little after dark, he rode along our skirmish line near the peach-orchard, where he came across a battery of artillery. He was surprised to find it so far in advance of our line of infantry, and inquired whose it was. A tall oflEicer, quietly smoking a pipe, approached, and said, "I am the captain." It was "Buck" Miller, of the Third Company of "Washington Artillery. When he rec- ognized the General he informed him he " was out there to have a little skirmishing on his own account, if the ' Yanks ' came out of their holes." The General laughed at the captain's idea of "skirmishing" with 12-pounder Napoleons. Ever since the battle of Sharpsburg ( Antietam) , when the Third Company held the centre of our line, and Longstreet and staff worked with the guns, Miller has been a great favorite at head-quarters.-' 'At 6 P.M. we heard a long and continuous Yankee cheer, which we at first imagined was an indication of an advance ; but it turned out to be their recep- 256 THE WASBINOTON ARTILLERY. Wagons and ambulances are passing to the rear towards the Potomac. We cannot remain without ammunition, and must retire. We are in momentary expectation that the enemy will advance and interfere with our quiet and orderly arrangements for moving off. Gen. Longstreet desires the smallest battalion of artillery to accompany General Imboden with the trains to Williamsport, and the Washington Artillery, ten guns, under Major Eshlenian, is detached for that service. At 9 P.M. orders were issued to withdraw all the bat- teries from the lines, and put them on the road to Williams- port. It was dark and raining, and, being Adjutant of the artillery corps, it was my duty to carry out the order. At midnight the withdrawal was completed, and I sought Col. Walton at Gen. Longstreet's camp-fire on the road- side. There were Gen. Lee and staff, Freemantle, Law- ley, Ross, and Phillips, and the surgeons. I made my report that the batteries were all off; and tried to take a nap, coiled up on the roots of a tree, — a decided failure. I then sought Cullen's ambulance, and he kindly filled my canteen. I heard Gen. Lee say to Gen. Longstreet (or tion of a general officer, whom we saw riding down the line, followed by about thirty horsemen. Soon aftenvards I rode to the extreme front, where there were four pieces of cannon, almost without any infanti-y support. To the non- withdrawal of these guns is to be attributed the otherwise surprising inactivity of the enemy. I was immediately surrounded by a sergeant and about lialf-a- do2en gunners, who seemed in excellent spirits, and full of confidence, in spite of their exposed situation. The sergeant (Coyle) expressed his ardent hope that the Yankees might have spirit enough to advance and receive the dose he had in I'eadiness for them. Whilst we were talking, the enemy's skirmishers began to advance slowly, and several ominous sounds in quick succession told us that we were attracting their attention, and that it was necessary to break up the conclave. I therefore turned round and took leave of these cheery and plucky gunners. — Freemantle. THE WASSINOTON ARTILLERY. 'ihl perhaps he was speaking to himself) , " It's all my fault ; I thought my men were invincible ! " Capt. Johnston, of the engineers, rode up. From what I could gather he had been looking for favorable grounds in our rear to lay out a line of battle. Reports were coming in from scouts that the enemy was falling back, and there was nothing in front of us except cavalry, and that the rumbling of guns had been heard that evening. Had Meade had enough of us ? We thought then that if Lee had not already withdrawn the troops from our lines an effort might have been made to ascertain correctly what the enemy was about. But it was now too late. The army was on the march, and it was dark, and raining heavily. We all clustered around the fire, and piled on the rails, but it was a miserable, wretched night, and, in spite of India-rubber cloths, we were wet to the skin. I offered my canteen and a tin cup to Gen. Lee, saying, " he must be cold, and a little of its contents would do him good." I never saw him do it before ; but, for " his health's sake," he took a few drops. I had intended to keep that cup as a souvenir, but lost it on the march. At daylight on the 5th we took the road, following the troops. The battery-horses are slowly dragging the heavy guns through the roads, axle deep. The infantry are picking their way through the fields. On the 6th we reached Hagerstown. As we approached the town the enemy's cavalry attacked ours in front, and were driven off towards Williamsport, where all the army- wagons and ambulances are under charge of Imboden's cavalry and the Washington Artillery. The enemy attacked 258 THE WASHINGTON ARTILLERY. them and were driven off by the artillery, cavalry, teams- ters, and quartermasters, together with some wounded men, who were armed with muskets found in the wagons. They made a very gallant fight of it and saved the trains. The artillery had seventeen men wounded and ten horses killed. On the 7th it was reported that more ammunition had arrived, and communication reestablished with Richmond. We have gone into camp one mile from Williamsport. The Potomac is too high for the army to cross. Meade has followed us cautiously, but does not seem disposed to trouble us.^ Our engineers are having a pontoon bridge built, and to do so are ransacking all the barns for tar, oakum, and tools. On the 8th the river is still booming, and we are in rather a delicate position. Meade on one side, and a big river on the other. Frankly speaking, we are in a decidedly " tight box." We trust to " Uncle Robert " to get us out of it. On the 10th our batteries are supplied with ammunition, for which we are thankful.' • Scarcely had we arrived at Williamsport before we were attacked by Kil- patrick, with a body of Federal cavalry, wLo had already harassed us at Hagers- town, on our retreat, and captured some of our ■\>^gons. At Williamsport, the morning after our arrival, there was a sudden dash and hotly contested fight. These assailants were, however, ultimately driven off, with the assistance of the wagonei-s, who now shouldered the muskets they had been hauling, and fought like Trojans. In this teamsters' fight, the enemy were driven away without doing any serious damage. — Bariletfs story. ^Head-qcabtees Artillebt Coeps, July 10, 1863. CoLOJTEL: — More artillery ammunition has amved opposite 'Williamsport. Have battalion commandei'3 directed to send, immediately, caissons to report at Col. Baldwin's park, and, as he may direct, get the ammunition as soon as it is brought across (the Potomac) . It is hoped there is a good supply of rifle am- munition. TEE WASHINOTON ARTILLERY. 259 On the 11th our army began intrenching their position. Meade is doing the same on his lines in front of us. On the night of the 13th the pontoon bridge was com- pleted, — an engineering triumph over difficulties , — and the army crossed to the Virginia shore, leaving only two of Major Garnett's guns, and a couple of broken-down wagons, stuck in the mud, — a clean retreat. But we have had the Inisfortune to lose a gallant officer. Gen. Pettigrew. It had been reported to him that a small body of cavalry, about sixty in number, were riding towards his lines and works. At first they were supposed to be our own men. They displayed a Federal guidon, but our men thought they might have captured it. As they approached our lines they put their horses to the gaUop, and began yelling and discharging their pistols. It was then discovered that they were Federals, and, as they charged over our works in their headlong course, Pettigrew's men seized their muskets, and not one of the cavalry escaped, all were shot or bayo- netted ; but a pistol-shot had laid low the gallant and chival- rous Pettigrew. • It was presumed they thought our lines were abandoned, and came to see, but they ran into a brigade of infantry, and, while sacrificing their own lives, deprived us of a valu- able officer. • On the 16th we encamped at Bunker Hill, and, on the 20th, we once more pitched our tents in our grove at Mill- Act in these matters, if you please, very promptly. Eespectfully, your obedient sei-vant, W. N. Pendleton, Brig.-Gen'l and Chief of Artillery. Col. 'Waiton, Ohiff Artillery, First Corps. 260 THE WASHINGTON ARTILLERY. wood. We have "seen sights" since we left this delight- ful spot a few weeks ago. I am better oW by two pairs of pants, and a new pair of riding-boots, which a $5 gold- piece procured, after many denials, on the part of a store- keeper of the Israelitish persuasion, in "Williamsport, that such things were to be had in the whole State of Mary- land. Oh, the power of gold ! On the 5th of August we encamped at Orange Court- House, and the campaign is over. General Longstreet, his staff, and our friends " the Surgeons " are encamped close by us, and we have a sociable time of it. We contemplate renewing our dancing-club at the Court-House, pour passer le temps. Our army at Gettysburg, in Pennsylvania, numbered 62,000 of all arms, — 50,000 infantry, 8,000 cavalry, and 4,000 artillery.! The Federal army numbered 105,000.^ ^ Colonel Taylor, "Four years with General Lee," p. 113. ' General Meade's report. NOTE. Abmament of First Coeps Aktilleet, A. N. Va., • July 19, 1863 Battebies. 1 s «3 P.frc s •do ii si a o 1.2 •SI i Colonel Alexander's Battalion. Captain Jordan Woolfolk " Moody . ... " Parlier . . . " Ficklin (Eliett) . . . " Taylor (Eubanlt) . . 4 3 1 2 4 2 2 4 4 2 6 4 2 4 7 1 6 2 2 4 22 THE WASHINGTON ARTILLERY. 261 Battebiks. 1 a CO u n o 03 O is h 1^ ll r 3 Washington Artillery, Colonel J. B. Walton. Captain Squires " Eichardson " MiUer " Norcom 1 1 2 3 2 1 • 1 4 3 2 Major Henry^s Battalion. Captain Bachmin " Garden 1 1 3 2 8 4 3 2 2 1 10 4 " EeiUy '* Latham. . . 1 6 Major Deanng^s battalion. Captain Blount 1 1 6 1 2 11 2 6 4 2 18 4 4 fi " Caskie 4 Colonel Cabell's Battalion. Captain Manly " McCarthy " Carlton 1 1 2 3 2 2 12 2 2 1 1 2 1 18 4 4 3 " Frazer 1 4 4 4 2 4 1 15 Total guns 14 14 39 7 4 5 83 262 THE WASHINGTON ARTILLERY. Wm. Millek, Owen, Adjutant First Corps Artillery. Camp at Bunker HUl, Va., July 19, 1863. Report of Inspection made of the Artillery of the First {Longstreet's) Army Corps, Army Northern Virginia, July 25, 1863, at Oulpeper Court- - House. Col. Cabell's Battalion. General condition, good. No horses wanted. Ammunition required. Can move at any time. Five new wheels needed. Major Deaking's Battalion. Thiiiy-two horses lost at Gettysburg ; 36 horses required to fill up. Horses in weak condition, needing a few days' rest. Cannot march under four days unless provided with horse-shoes and corn. Battalion "Washington Aktillebt. Day after to-moiTow horses will all be shod, and will then be able to march ; 12 horses required to fill up. Men badly off for shoes and under-clothing. General condition veiy good. Majob Henbt's Battalion. All batteries in good order except one ; that requires rest ; 40 horses needed to fill up. Men all well shod. Ammunition requu-ed. Two chests full of ammunition abandoned on the march. Colonel Alexander's Battalion. Eighty horses needed to fiU. Tolerably well shod upj 170 pairs of shoes needed for men. N B. Shoes for the men greatly needed. Horse-shoes and nails are needed by the whole ArtiUeiy Coi-ps. J. B. "Walton, Colonel and Chief of Artillery, First Corps A.N.Va. "W. M. Owen, Adjutant Artillery, First Corps. Head-quarters Artillery Corps, July 30, 1863. Order No : — In accordance with General Orders No. 43, June 13, 1862, A. and I. G. C, the following promotions are announced. Sergt. William J. Behan, of Capt. Norcom's Company of "Washington Artilleiy," to be a second lieutpnant, vice George E. Apps, promoted March 26, 1862. By command of Brig.-General W. N. Pendleton. D. D. Pendleton, Captain, and A.A.G. Official: J. B. Walton, Colonel and Chief Artillery. TEE V'ASHiyGTOX ARTILLERY. 263 CHAPTER XII. CHICKAMAUGA — DTDIAX, A " STEEAM OF DEATH." Wm. Preston Johnston. — General Longstreet. — Bichmond. — Promo- tion. — S. W. Virginia. — Abingdon. — Gen. William Preston. — Knoxrille. — March through Georgia. — McLemore's Core. — Dug Gap. . — Gen. Bragg. — Gen. Breckenridge. — ^ Fifth Company, 'Wash- ington Artillery. — Gen. Gracie. — Gen. PoLfc. — Battle of CMcka- mauga. — Gen. Wm. H. Lytle killed. — Preston's charge np Mis- sionary Sidge. — Kosecrans in Chattanooga. — President Davis. A UGUST 10, 1863. — While sitting in front of our tents last eveninor, chatting, our courier brought me the following letter : — BiCHMO>T>, Aug. 7, 1863. I,rEUTE>"AXT W. JX. GVTES : Mt dear Sib, — I received from my uncle, Gen. TVilliam Preston, conunanding a district in South-western Virginia, a letter to yon, enclosed to me, offering yon the place of ■' Chief of Artillery " with him. He has ten guns, two howitzers, and Saltrille is to be fortified with ten guns more, — ■ twenty-two guns. Tou would have the rank of Major. Tou would find the service in some respects rough; but the association with Gen. Preston himself would be agreeable. On consultation with your friends here we were' unwilling to trust to the uncertainty of the mails, especially as Gen. Preston wished immediate action. It has, therefore, been submitted to the War Department, and I do not doubt that you will receive the appointment. I write you to learn if it will be agreeable to you. Very truly yours, WM. PRESTON JOHNSTON. Had a shell exploded at mv feet I could not have been 264 TffE WASSIXGTOX ASTILXFSr. more surprised than I -svas at my sudden promotion. It vras totally unsought ; but I coidd not bear the thought of leaving old friends and comrades in the " Armj of Xorth- em Tirginia," and then — " South-western ATrginia ! "' a part of the countrj' that seemed out of the -w-orld, where I woidd be buried in obsouritr, — vroidd be lost — ne\-er heard of again. I half decided I would reject the appointment. However, we took a toddv to " Saltnlle and G-en. Pres- ton," and turned in to sleep on it. At an early hoiur this morning I went to head-quarters to show Colonel Johnson's letter to Genend Longstreet. and ask his advice. He told me to accept at once ; that he thought young men should always take promotion when ofiered. I told him I re- gretted leaving the old corps, etc. He said, " Oh ! don't be afraid ; we will meet agtvin." I then applied for leave of absence to go to Eichmond ; got it, and started imme- diately by rail. In the evening, I called upon the president, and -was greeted by him as " ]Major O." The commission was fixed, that ■was evident. Keceived the congratidations of the ladies of his feuuly, and passed with them a pleasant even- ing. General Preston wants me to report to him as soon as possible ; so I am oiF to-morrow to camp, for my traps, and then "Ho! for South-western "Virginia," — a "Life Insiutmce Department." On the night of the 19th of August I found myself at Abingdon, S.W. Va. I was asleep when the train pidletl THE WASHISGTOy ARTILLERY. 265 np at the station, and, although I had requested the condnc- tor to =€6 that I was notified, he faOed to do it, and I was carried to the next station, seven miles, where I got ont, and marched back the whole distance, otct the cross-tiei, to Abingdon. It was ten o'clock when I reached the vil- lage. All the oflScers at head-qnarters were asleep, except a select party, who were in a closed room, fix)m which the sound of the rattling of ivorr checks lefit a enspicion upon mv mind that something of the nature of ''' poker " Tnig ht be going on ; so I went to the Tillage tayem, and was pro- vided irith an indiflFerent bed. Bright and early, on the 20th of August, I walked into General Preston's oflfe, and reported for duty, and was announced in Orders, aa " Chief of Artillery of the Depart- ment of Sontb-westem Virginia " to be " obeyed and re- spected accordingly." In six weeks I had changed my locality from the bloody heights of Gettysburg to the forest-covered mountains of South-western Virginia. The General is a most agreeable gentleman, and has an excellent cook, and capital mese. His staff 15 composed of young Kentuckians. I think we will all puU together admirably. Will at once make a ceneral inspection of the department. Aug. 23d. — Eumors have been rife for sereral days that Bumside is moving this way from Kentucky, and the Gen- eral and staff, are ordered to Ejioxville, to report to Gen. Buckner. At KnoxvUle many wild rumors of the movements of the enemy are ia circulation. Tins city and our department are to be evacuated. General Buckner is in command. 266 T3E WASHINGTON- ARTILLERY. While at dinner to day General Preston informed me that General Buckner had offered him the command of a division of infantry, and that he had accepted. He then propounded the question : " Will you go with me as Chief of Staff and Assistant Adjutant-General, on an active cam- paign, or would you prefer going back to our department, and report to General Sam Jones, at Dublin? " TThat an unlooked for opportunity ! Without a moment's delay I decided upon the active campaign. So, farewell to old Tirginia ! General Bragg is at Chattanooga, and we will withdraw in that direction. The quartermaster's stores are being removed from the city as speedily as possible. On the 24:th of August we were busy getting ready to march. The weather was oppressively hot. I am in a bad fix. My "kit "is at Abingdon, and I have with me only one blanket and my cape, and one change of under- clothing. My horses are on the journey somewhere be- tween Orange Court-House and Abingdon ; so I am badly prepared for a campaign of, — no one knows how long. I obtained, however, from the quartermaster's department, a little, round-bellied gray horse, and one of the worst Confederate saddles I ever saw. The first chance I get at the enemy it will be " A horse ! a horse ! jNIy kingdom for a horse ! " But, Uke Mark Tapley, I shall " endeavor to be jolly under adverse circumstances." On the 25th of August we left Knoxville for Loudon, on the Tennessee river, wlaich place is being fortified. Here there is a long bridge, which can be destroyed, should the movements of the enemy render it necessary. Knox- ville was given up to-day, and Gen. Buckner and staff THE WASBINGTON ARTILLERY. 267 have arrived here. It is a pity to give up this beautiful country, with its ripening crops, to the enemy. To-day Gen. Preston took command of his division, in Buckner's corps, consisting of the brigades of Gen. Gracie, Col. Trigg, and Col. Kelly, and the Fifth regiment of Kentucky volunteers, under Col. Hawkins. The division staff is announced as follows : — Major W. M. Owen, A.A.G. and Chief of Staff. Major Edwaed Ceutchfield, Chief Quartermaster. Major Bradfoed, Chief Commissary. Capt. John Sanfoed, A. A. General. Capt. Ed. Peeston, A. Inspector General. Lieut. S. F. Adams, A. A. A. General. H. EuTHEEFOED, Chief Surgeon. Lieut. H. H. JoKNSTON, A.D.C. Lieut. Ed. Whitfield, Ordnance Officer. Capt. J. C. S. Blackburn, Vol. A.D.C. The following tabular statement shows the composition and strength of the division : — 268 TSE WASHINGTON ARTILLERY. Division or Gen. Wm. Preston, Aug. 26, 1863. First Brigade. Brig.-Gen. Archibald Gracie, Jr. 63d regiment Tenn. Vols., Col. J. A. Fulkerson. 43d regiment Ala. Vols., Col. I. M. Moody 41st regiment Ala. Vols., Col. M. L. Stansel Hilliard's Alabama Legion, 1st, 2d, and 3d bat- talions. Lieut.-Col. J. H. Holt, Lieut.-Col. B. Hall, Jr., Major J. A. Sanford Second Brigade. Col. E. C. Trigg commanding. 6th regiment I'la. Vols., Col. J. J. Findlay 7th regiment Fla. Vols., Col. R. Bullock 1st regiment Pla. cavalry (dismounted). Col. G. T. Maxwell 54th Va. Vols., Col. Jno. J. Wade Third Brigade. Col. J. H. Kelly commanding. 58th regiment N. C. Vols., Col. J. B. Palmer . . . 65th regiment Ga. Vols. , Col. Moore 63d regiment Va. Vols., Col. J. J. McMahon. . . Attached. Col. H. Hawkins. 5tli regiment Ky. Vols Morgan's dismounted cavalry, Lieut.-Col. Bowles. Totals Strength. Ecgi- ments. 827 633 867 422 Bri. gades. 3,597 2,772 2,327 422 9,118 Pres- ent for duty. 2,206 1,940 1,509 296 5,951 Artillery, Leyden's battery. Williams's battery. Eldridge's battery. People's battery. WoUihan's battery. Jeffries' battery, with Gracie. TSE WASHmOTOy ARTILLERY. 269 On the 31st of August the division took the field, and the march was begun towards Chattanooga. We encamped on the banks of the Sweetwater, seventeen miles from Loudon. On the Ist of September the division marched to Eice- ville, seven miles from Charleston ; on the 2d to Car- michael's Ford, on Candy creek; and on the 3d to George- town. To-day (the 4th) I rode with Generals Preston and Pegram, to Blythe's Ferry, on the Tennessee river, and observed the enemy's pickets on the opposite bank. On the 5th the march continued to Harrison, on the beautiful creek called by the Indian name " Ooltowha," where we had a splendid bath, and enjoyed ourselves in the water to our hearts' content. On the 6th and 7th we continned our march ; on the latter date some unknown exigencies caused us to march all night, much to the disgust of every one. Gen. Bragg is evacuating Chattanooga, and we can hear the distant cannonading. On September 8th marched to Ringgold and camped, and on the 9th marched to Pear-vine church. TVe — the staff — have now been marching and camping together for the past ten days, long enough to become well acquainted with each other ; and, in all my experience in the army, I have never met with a better set of gentlemen than we have assembled here at head-quarters. Gen. Preston himself is a most interesting travelling companion as well as polished gentleman ; a handsome, large-framed man, somewhat resembling Col. TTalton, my old chief, and has the appearance of what we can imagine a French marshal should have been in the wars of the first Xapoleon. 270 TBE WASHINOTON ARTILLERY. He is chock-full of anecdote, and many an hour have I listened to his experiences and travels of long ago, — before either of us believed we should ever be marching over the dusty roads of Tennessee and Georgia at the head of a column of nearly six thousand stalwart soldiers clad in gray. The General is a Kentuckian, — from that State which has produced so many great orators and statesmen, and has served his commonwealth in the halls of Congress ; but what interests me most is the story of his life at the Span- ish court, when he occupied the high position of minister plenipotentiary from the United States, and spent each year, in keeping up a grand establishment, fifty thousand dollars over and above the government salary. How he astonished the Dons ! And had they inquired of him what that salary was, he could have replied, as Col. John B. Magruder once did to the English officers, whom he was entertaining in princely style at Fort Niagara, on the lakes, when asked what was the pay of a colonel in the United States army, that enabled him to do such magnificent things ? " Why, really, now, I don't know ; I always hand it over to the servants." As we jog along, he on his Kentucky thorough-bred, and I, on my round-bellied, quartermaster, nondescript "Rosi- nante," he tells me of his French cook and the atlachis of his palace ; how the former was brought from Paris regard- less of expense, and what dinners he served for state occasions ; and when we halted in some patch of woods to bivouac in the open air, and partake of our slice of bacon and dip our crackers in the grease, he would give a sigh of satisfaction, and say, " Ah ! Owen, this is just as good. TBE WASBTNGTO^r ARTILLERY. 271 Xow we are greased for another day." And so the time passed pleasantly enough as we campaigned together in Georgia. Then, there was Ned Preston, a gallant, hand- some yoxmg fellow, and Harris Jolmston, Ed. Whitfield, Sanford, and Joe Blackburn, — impetuous, gallant Joe, fuU of snap and vim, and as brave as a lion. They and all the balance of the staff were made of the right stuff. September 10. — It having been reported at head-quar- tei-s that a corps of the enemy (Xeglev's) has passed through Cooper's Gap, in Lookout Mountain, and entered McLemore's Cove, between it and Pigeon ^Mountain, Gen. Hindman, with his own and Stewart's and Preston's divis- ions, with the light batteries of Leyden, Williams, and Eldridge, under my command, are sent to capture or destroy it. The divisions marched from Pea- Vine church and moved to ^lorgan's Ford, over the Chickamanga Creek, which runs through the cove and empties into the Tennessee river near Chattanooga. Here the command bivouacked, and a council of officers was held. Gen. Preston attended, and we of the staff kicked our heels outside of the house where they met until midnight. While riding to our bivouac the General told me that •we were to move at daylight, and attack the enemy as soon as we should find liim. We slept upon our saddle-blankets, on the grovmd in the open field. On September 11 we were up and stirring at daylight, and the division ready to move. Our cook has not yet overtaken us with the provisions, so we content ourselves 272 THE WASHINGTON ARTILLERY. with roasting-ears of com and water. It is seven o'clock before the march begins, and then we moved slowly, halt- ing often, and at 11.30 halted to rest. This don't look like marching to " attack the enemy when we shall find him," but rather as though we were afraid he would find us. At 12.15 a single gun is heard in the distance. At 12.45 the column is moved forward, and a line of battle formed, and there is some skirmishing in front. A* 4.35 our line advances, and the enemy retires rapidly before us, our men moving at a double quick, and by dusk he is in full retreat to the gap through which he entered the cove. Our bat- teries were not used. Our movements have been so much upon the snail order that the enemy has been enabled to slip away from our front, when we should have captured or destroyed him. As the result of the little skirmishing with his rear-guard, we found, in a cornfield, one poor little Yank, who had died that day for his country. Our expedition having come to naught, we push on to Dug Gap, over Pigeon Mountain, en route for La Fayette, where Bragg is concentrating and preparing for battle. On the 12th we arrived at La Fayette, about 3 P.M., having had a hard time getting our troops and wagons over the mountain. The different corps are concentrating here. Met Gen. Polk to-day ; the change in his appearance from a clean-shaved, white-robed bishop to a soldier " bearded like the pard," and wearing a black slouch hat and a faded gray uniform, is very striking. His corps is to move to- morrow in the direction of Pea- Vine church, to attack THE WASfflNGTON ARTILLERY. 273 Crittenden's corps, said to be moving after us in that direc- tion. It appears that the Federal army is moving its different corps independently of each other, and Bragg is trying to catch them in detail whenever he can, Hope Polk will be more successful this time than Hindman was on the 10th. At daylight on the 13th Preston's division was ordered out to support Polk's movements, and marched on the road five miles from La Fayette. At 12.25 some firing is heard in the direction of Rock Spring. At 1 P.M. we are ordered back to La Fayette, to support D. H. Hill, who is skirmishing below the town on the SummervUIe road. Weather excessively hot, and roads dusty, and our men suffer much for water. At 5 P.M. we were ordered into camp. Another failure. Crittenden has slipped away from Polk, as Negley did from Hindman. Our movements are wretchedly slow. "We are not in luck " bagging " corps. I called, with Gen. Preston, to pay our respects to Gens. Bragg, Dan Adams, and Breckenridge. At 4.15 A.M., September 14, Trigg's brigade and People's battery were ordered to support Helm, on the Summerville road; at 7.30 A.M. they were ordered to rest for the day. We left Abingdon on the 22d of August, and since that date we have marched three hundred and four miles, averaging fourteen miles a day, passing over bad roads and through a mountainous country. The Fifth company Washington Artillery passed our bivouac, and I was delighted to meet my old friend and comrade, Capt. Slocomb, not having seen him since he left us at Centreville, Virginia, in 1861. He left us then 274 TIIS WASBIXOTOS AJBTIZLZSr. to return to Xew Orleans on business of the greatest im- portance, and when the Fifth eompinv w:i5 oipuiized. joined it as a private, was eleoted a lieutenant, and, after the battle of Shiloh. where he w:is desj^enttely woundtxi. wsis pro- moted to the eaptaincT, when Capt. Hoilgsou resigiieil on siceount of foiling health. I also had the pleasure of meeting Lieuts. LeTerich, Chalaron, and Taught. The Fifth company has made a brilliant record in this army, as its brothers of the four companies in Virginia hare done. On the 15th we had Gens. Breckenridge and Grade to dine with us ; not much dinner, and no champagne. How- erer, the piece de i-esistance of bacon was passable, and the apple-brandy toiUy wiis good. Breckenridge is regarded as a fine soldier, wliilom an orator, and Vice-President of the Uniteil States. Grade is a rising yotmg General, deroted to his profrssion, a graduate of TTest Point. He is justly proud of his brigade of young soldiers, most of whom have never yet Ix^en under fire. They will do good work. Passed the eA-en- ing at the camp of the Fifth company. Tliey .ire all eager to know what the four companies in Alrginia are about. Becoming tired of the position of Adjutant-General and being awakened at all hours of the night to ligljt stumps of candles and tiy and decipher incomprehensiMo de- spatdies, all crumpled from the courier's pocket, where, in all probability, he has stored his pipe and tob.acoo aiid his parched com, I have persuadetl tlie Genej-al to announce me as Chief of Artillery of the division, and to let some THE WAsmyorox abtillest. 275 one else, holding a cooimissioii in the Adjutant-General's department, do the candle and cooiier bnsine&s. A battle order firom Gren. Bragg has been reeeivedj in trhich he annoonces his intention to march and find the enemy, and attack immediatelT. The armv is in fine spirits and faQ of fight, and it is to be hoped we will find the enemv this time. On the 17th we marched from La Faverre at 10 A.M., and reached Eock Spring at 3 P.M. Gen. Frank Arm- strong reports the enemv- at TTorthing's Gap, six miles from Bock-spring chnrch. Encamped to-night on Pea-Vine Creek. September 18. — Marched at -S.oO A.M. to and beyond Pea-Yme church, and crossed the ridge at Xapier's Gap. "We are now in the core ; enemy just in fitjnt, across the Chickamanga Creek. 5Iove on to Dalton's Ford, over the creek. Enemy now in fall Tiew ; brisk skinnishing. Placed "WoDihan's and People's batteries in position to cover onr crossing. At dusk a stafi-officer of Col. KeUy's rode np to report a camp of the enemy in fidl view, and in ardlleiy range, across the creek on onr left. At the request of Gen. Preston, I accompanied the officer to the spot, where we could overlook the camp, and, dismounting and throwing the bridle of my horse over my arm, began to use my glasses. Within a thousand yards was a large encamp- ment, with fires burning, and the men evidently preparing supper. I was turning over in my mind how we could stir them np with a battery, when, right at my very feet, there was a fiash of a rifle, and a bullet whistled by my 276 THE WASHINGTON ARTILLERY. ear. That miserable, round-bellied quadruped had, by his light-grayish color, betrayed my presence to one of the enemy's pickets on the banks of the creek. I put up my glasses and turned to mount. The gray pulled back, the picket fired again, and again missed. The aid-de-camp put off through the woods, and left me and the gray to our fate ; but, by perseverance and cussing, I got alongside, mounted, and was off before my very attentive friend could reload and fire again. Reported to the General that, if he would lend me Kelly's brigade awhile, I could make that place secure for a battery of artillery. He regretted he could not comply with my request at the moment. At midnight Grade's brigade and Jeffrey's battery were put across the creek. The Chickamauga is crossed by two bridges and three fords. The plan of attack is about as follows : Gen, Bushi'od Johnson's division is to cross at the lower bridge (Breed's), push on up stream, on the opposite side. When opposite the second bridge (Alexander's), Walker's division is to cross and sujiport Johnson's movement. Buckner is to cross at Tedford's Ford. Polk's corps is at Lee and Gordon's Mdl, and D. H. Hill's coi'ps, the extreme left, at Crawfish-spring Ford. They will conform to the movements of Johnson, Walker, and Buckner. At daybreak on the morning of the 19th, Kelly's and Trigg's brigades, with Wollihan's and People's batteries, crossed at Tedford's Ford. At 8.30 A.M., Johnson is already engaged on the rio-ht. The firing is heavy. o Si tH E- -_ a THE WASHINGTON ARTILLERY. 'ill After crossing the Chickamauga the division is formed in column of brigades at right-angles with the stream. The enemy is in plain view at Lee and Gordon's Mill. Johnson is forcing the enemy back towards the Chatta- nooga road. We opened fire upon the enemy at Lee and Gordon's Mill with a rifle-gun. At 10.40 he replied with long-range Parrott guns, causing us to cease firing, and killing a lieutenant and two men in Trigg's brigade, and demoralizing somewhat our men, as it always does troops when lying down under artillery fire awaiting orders. 12 M. Firing very heavy on the right ; Johnson and Walker hard at it. At 4 P.M. our division advances. Trigg moved to the right, and the line of battle made to connect. Our forces are swinging around towards the Chattanooga road, and pivoting on Preston's division, this left of the line. Trigg's skirmishers become engaged, and then his brigade, and he loses nearly two hundred men. 7 P.M. Very heavy skirmishing in front of us, and heavy firing on the right. Just as Gen. Preston and staflT were taking a rest behind our line, the bullets of the skirmishers came thickly, but flew high, for which much thanks. With the exception of Trigg's brigade, our troops have been idle. We can hear but little reliable news from the right. We can only judge of the state of affairs by the sound of artillery and musketry. We have all sorts of reports ; one is that Hood's division is here, just from Richmond, and has been in to-day. Hurrah for the old army of Northern Virginia ! Longstreet is expected with more troops. The General's i?7S TBJE WASHIXGTOy ARTILLEBT. boy (Sam) brought us a canteea of coffee, so called... of which •we partook, and, atter feeding our horses on com shucks from a neighboring field, we wrapped onrselres in our blankets, and, with our saddles for pillows, slept sotrndlr behind our line of battle. September 20lh. Poftrs and D. H. Hill's corps, find- ing it impossible to cross the Chiokamaoga at Lee and Gordon's and Crawfish-spring Fords, niOTcd down during the nisrht and crossed a£ Tedford's Ford. Moving then, in our rear, to the extreme right of the line, ther have taken the places of Johnson's and Walker's tired troops, and Polk lias orders to attack the enemy at daylight ; but we have not yet heard his guns. The old ''war-horse" Liongstreet is here at last, with Hood's and Kershaw's divisions, about 7,000 men. I had the pleasure of shaking hands with him as he was riding along the line this morning. He said, '^I told you we would meet again." Hr<; presence is an omen of Tictory. Liatrobe, Sorrel, Goree, and Manning are with him. It is glorious to have these fellows out here. It recalls our old fights. I feel certain we wUl have a victory to-day. 10.45. Heavy firing on the right. Polk has at last gone in. Should have attacked at davli^ht,^ but waited • A heaTy fog hnng over Uie batde-field dnring the earir moming. Bragg, before daylight, 'rciih his £ta^, took pocsitiOB immediacelT ia i^ar of the ceutre of his line, and waited for Polk to begin the attack, waiting until after sunrise with increasing anxjetr and disappointment. Brag^ then sent a s::-.ff-officcr to Polk to ascertain and report as to the cause of the delay, with orders urging him to a pyvimpt and speedy attack. Polk was ]H>t found with his troo|:^ and the staff-cfeer, learning that he had spent the night on the east side of Chickamanga Oeet, rode over there and deliTered his m^sage. Bra^r. TBE WASHINGTON ARTILLERY. 279 for his men to get breakfast. He commands the right wing of the army; Longstreet, the left. Now we wUl catch it. Trigg's brigade detached to support Hindman. Line parallel to him and in rear. 11 A.M. Buckner's order to remove the enemy's wounded from our iront suspended on account of our surgeons and litter-bearers being fired into. 11.30. Our time comes at last. Latrobe gallops up and says, " Gen. Longstreet orders your division to move forward, keeping closed to the right." Trigg, Kelly, and Gracie advance, leaving our batteries to watch the enemy on the banks of the Chickamauga. We are swinging around on Polk's corps, which is now the pivot. Our division, in advancing, passes the spot where Gen. Bragg is seated upon his horse on the Chattanooga road. He looks pale and careworn, his features rendered more haggard by a white Havelock he wears over his cap and neck. The enemy seems to be fighting in detached bodies.^ impatient at the delay, proceeded in pei*son to his right wing, and there found the ti-oop3 wholly unprepared for the movement. Messengers wei-e sent for Polk in hot haste, and, on his reporting, he was urged to a prompt execution of his ordei-s, and to make a vigorous attack at once. — The Army of the Cwm^ berlani. H. M. Cist. ^ Just at this time the order of battle on the enemy's line had reached Longstreet's command, who, seeing this gap, ordered his troops, foimed in heavy columns, to advance. Into this gap they poured, Stewart's, Hood's, Kershaw's, Johnson's, and Hindman's divisions dashing impetuously forward, with Preston's large division as supports. Our right, disabled as it was, was speedily turned, the line of battle on the enemy's front, extending nearly from Brannan's centre to a point far to the right of the Widow Glenn's house, and from the front of that portion of the line Sheridan's brigades bad just been taken. 280 THE WASHINGTON ARTILLERY. Longstreet discovers, with his soldier's eye, a gap in their already confused lines, and, forming a solid column of at- tack, composed of Stewart's, Hood's, Kershaw's, Johnson's, and Hindman's divisions, with Preston's as supports, breaks through and strikes the enemy, and short and bloody is the work. We move steadily forward, no halting. The men rush over the hastily-constructed breastworks of logs and rails of the foe, with the old time familiar rebel yell, and, wheeling then to the right, the column sweeps the enemy before it, and pushes along the Chattanooga road towards Missionary Ridge in pursuit. It is glorious ! We hear that Kershaw's and Hood's men are fighting, as they always do, sjilcndidly. Several thousand prisoners and fifty pieces of artillery reported captured. General Lytle killed. At 2.45 P.M. our exultant troops are halted to rest; our division has followed on, supporting those in front who have so far done the fighting. There' is no enemy left except a email force on Horseshoe Eidge, which is a very strong position ; those troops of the enemy who were on Longstreet's left, when he broke through the McCook, to resist this fierce assault, had only Carlin's and Ilcy's brigades, of Davis's division, and Laibold's brigade, of Sheridan's division. On finding the rebel troops passing through the spaco vacated by Wood, MeCook ordered Lytle and Walworth to change front and return to assist in repelling the enemy. Wilder and Harrison closed in on Sheridan with theii' commands as speedily as possible, and aided in resisting the cucmy's attack. Davis, being overpowered by the immense number of the rebels, was com- pelled to retire to save his command. Laibold was in turn driven back in confusion, and the tide of battle then struck Lj-tlc and Walworth, who con- tended nobly against the overpowering columns, and for a time chocked the advanoe of the enemy on their immediate front. The rebel troops, swarming in, turned the left of these brigades, and tliey were compelled to withdraw to escape being suiToundod. At this point the gallant Lytle was killed. Here our army lost several thousand prisoners, forty guns, and a large number of wagon-trains. — Army of the Cumberland. H. M. CiST. TBE WASMINOTON ARTILLERY. 281 lines, are falling back to positions of greater safety, and are flying to Chattanooga. Longstreet says " They have fought their last man and he is running." 3 P.M. While our division was resting at a halt, under an occasional fire of a battery posted on Horseshoe Eidge, I rode to the right and rear of our line, and there saw Gens. Longstreet and Buckner, seated on a log, eating their lunch, which their boy had brought to them. General liOngstreet hailed me, and asked for a pipeful of tobacco. I produced my little bag, and he filled his meerschaum pipe. I then asked him what he thought of tiie battle ; was the enemy beaten or not ? " Yes,"' he said, " all along his line ; a few are holding out upon the ridge np yonder, not many though. If we had had our Virginia army here, we could have whipped them in half the time. By the by," he added, "don't you want some guns for your conmiand? I think my men must have captured fifty to-day." I told Mm I did, and would like to make a change for better ones, those we have being very indifferent. " Well," he said, " you can have as many as you want." — " General, hadn't you better put that in writing ? " He laughed, and instructed Latrobe to write an order for the guns, which read as follows : — The ofiScer in charge of the guns captured by lieutenant-General Longstreet's eommaud, and sent to the rear, Trill deliver them to Major Owen, of Preston's diTision, upon his receipt. By order of I" LATEOBE, A.A. Gen'L BATTisfiEU), September 30, 1863. 2S2 TSS WASBIXGTOy ASTILLERT. The Greneral then said, "I thmk there must he some horses. I certainlv saw some go bv with the jrtms." — " Oh ! ^ I said, "include the horses bv all means," and the horses were added to the order. Before leading the group. Latrobe calletl me aside, and, with a wink, said, " Owen, old fellow, mr horse is lame, not much account anv wav ; won't tou brinij me a irood one and jou shall have mv blessing?" — " AU right !" I told him, " jou shall have choice Xo. f?. for Xo. 1 wiU ivplace my old 'Eosinante' ; that is an assiu^d foct. if I live to get to Alexander's Bridge." It was now 4 o'clock, and the renm.int of the Federal armj still stubbornlv held tlie Horseshoe Eidge, although dm"ing the day they had been assaulted bv Breckenridije, Buslirod Johnson, Patton, Anderson, Ilindman, and lastly by Kershaw, and all had lost heavily. Longstreet determined to take the ridgv, and sends to Bragg for some of the trc>ops of the riglit wing, but Bragg says, " they have been fought out and can do him no good." The position held by the enemy is a very Gibraltar, its sides precipitous, and difficult to climb, but the dav is wearing away, and no time should be lost. Longstreet determines to put in his Tenth legion, Preston's 5,000, and sends for the General, and orders an immediate ad- vance. "It shall be done," replies Preston, and the com- mand Attention ! is given down the lines of the three brigades. The young troops spring to their arms ; it is their first baptism of fire, and if they are whipped they won't know it. TBE WASHIXGTOy ASTJLLESY. 283 The lines are dressed, and at the command?. Forward I forward ! the 5,000 move on in beautiful order. The enemy opens a terrific fire ; but up the hill our men ad- vance : now the enemv's bullets be^n to tell upon the lines, and men fall to the right and left, dead and wounded ; but the r^ more on undismayed, firing rapidly as they advance ; but the artillery and infantry fire is too hot for them, al- though they hare fought most gallantly, and, halting under the crest where some protection is had, the lines are dressed, and General Preston, reassuring them by his presence, rides down the lines and coolly examines each man's cartridge- box, and says, "Men, we must use the bayonet, — the bayonet, — we will give them the bayonet I " The men, one and aU cry out, " Go ahead. General ! we are not whipped yet ! " Confidence restored by the General's cool demeanor, and with the enthusiasm of the troops raised to the highest pitch, Preston rides to the front and centre of his line, and leads the way with splendid dash and bravery, war- ing his cap above his head, his gray hair floating in the breeze. With fierce yells and shouts the troops advance, — Grracie on the right, Kelly the centre, and Trigg the left:. It is a brave sight. Gracie and Kelly meet a determined resistance ; but Trigg, who had been pushed to the enemy's right in the hope of overlapping and flanking him, sweeps •down on his flank and rear, capturing 500 prisoners, the colors of the Twenty-first Ohio, the Twenty-second !Michi- gan, and two of regiments imknown, together with Colonels Lefeb^TB and Carlton, and Lieut.-Col. Glenn. The enemy, assailed on front and flank, falls back, and the battle-flags 284 THE WASHINGTON ARTILLERY. of Preston's division are planted upon the summit of Horseshoe Ridge, and the battle is won.' It was now growing quite dark, and the last divisions of Rosecrans's army were soon in full retreat on the road to Chattanooga. The troops we had fought upon the ridge were under General Thomas, — the commands of Brannan, Wood, and Granger, men of Ohio, Kentucky, and Michigan. Our tired men slept upon the field among the enemy's dead and wounded. September 21. Presenting Longstreet's order for the captured artillery to the officer in charge at Alexander's Bridge, I equipped our batteries with the pick of the new guns, rifles and Napoleons, and divided pro rata twenty- six horses, after selecting a mount for Latrobe, my courier, and myself. I have secured a fine animal of power and action, new saddle and bridle, red blankets, curry-comb, etc., etc., etc., as the auctioneer says, too numerous to mention. My old Eosinante has gone back to the quarter- master's department. Gen. Gracie very proudly showed me this morning the battle-flag of the Second Alabama Volunteers, carried by Sergt. Hiatt yesterday, that was pierced eighty-three times 1 After Hindmaa "was driven back, Longstreet, about four o'clock, determined to retake the ridge. Askinj^ Bragg for reinforcements from tUe riglit, he was in- fonncd by him " that tliey had been beaten back so badly that they could be of no service to me." Longstreet then ordered up his reserve division of fresh troops under Preston, four ( ?) brigades strong, supported by Stewart's corps, and directed him to at- tack the troops on the ridge. Advancing with wild yells, confident of success, Preston dashed boldly up the hill, supported by Kershaw's troops, with Johnson's, part of Hindman's, and, later on, by those of Stewart's. — The Army of the Cumberland. H. M. Cist. THE WASSINOTON ARTILLERY. 285 dui'ing the contest on the ridge. The Sergeant was not touched. This battle has been fought upon the highest ridge that divides the Atlantic and tlie Mississippi river, on the banks of the Chickamauga, an Indian name, meaning the " stream of death." Thomas's, Granger's, McCook's, and Critten- den's corps vpere all engaged. More than fifty pieces of artillery have been taken, and many thousands of small arms, prisoners, and many stands of colors fall into our hands. Gen. Bragg's head-quarters are established on the Chat- tanooga road, at the foot of Horseshoe Ridge, and here he is receiving the captured colors, which are being brought in by the men who have been so fortunate and gallant as to have taken them from their late owners. These men will be mentioned in the General Orders of the Army, and be selected for promotion. Our division is still bivouacked on the ridge where the battle ended. Burying-parties are ordered out, and small arms are being collected by the ordnance-officers. Upon the loftiest point of the ridge, where the colors of the enemy's battery had floated, we found the body of the man who had fallen in advance of all his comrades, and buried him there, where he gave up his young life. A board from an ammunition-box was procured and placed at the head of his grave, upon which I inscribed as follows : — GEORGE W. NOREIS, Co. E, 2d Alabama Volunteeks, Killed at the head of the command, Gracie's Brigade, September 20, 1863. 286 THE WASHINGTON ARTILLERY. To be buried on the spot where he fell, and where the flag of the Federal battery was planted. "WM. PRESTON, Brigadier-General. There let the young hero sleep until the resurrection " When the long years have rolled slowly away. Even to the dawn of earth's funeral day ; When, at the Archangel's trumpet and tread, Rise up the faces and forms of the dead ; When the great world its last judgment awaits. And when the blue sky shall swing open its gates. And one long column march silently through, Past the great Captain for final review ; Then for the blood that's been shed for the right. Crowns shall spring up untarnished and bright. Then the glad ear of this war-martyr's son Proudly shall hear the glad tidings, ' Well done ! ' " While riding through the woods yesterday I came upon the dead body of Gen. Lytle, of Cincinnati, Ohio. I recognized him at once. We had been friends in the old days, as our fathers were before us. A Confederate soldier was standing guard over the body. From what I learned from the guard it appeared that a brigade of Alabama troops, under command of Gen. Zach. Deas, while advanc- ing in the charge Longstreet made, had struck Ly tie's brigade. The latter was behind rude entrenchments of logs and rails. These had been swept by Deas's men, driving Lytle's back. About this time Lytle was struck, and his men, retreating, left his body where he fell. He was recognized by his uniform as a general oiScer, and Capt. West, of Gen. Deas's staff, took charge of his watch and TBE WASEmaTON ARTILLERY. 287 papers, and placed the sentinel on guard over the body. Dismounting, I asked the man his instructions, and he replied, "I am here to take care of this body, and to allow no one to touch it." "All right," I said. "I hope you will do it." I then looked to see where Lytle had been struck, and found that one ball had entered his right instep, and another his mouth, knocking out some teeth, and making its exit in the back of the neck. When he was killed he was smoking a cigar. He was dressed in fatigue uniform. His shoulder- straps — one star — indicated the rank of brigadier-general. He wore high riding-boots, a regulation overcoat, dark kid gloves. While standing beside the body. Gen. Preston rode up, and asked, " Who have you there?" I replied, "Gen. Lytle, of Cincinnati." — "Ah!" said Gen. Preston, " Gen. Lytle, the son of my old friend. Bob Lytle ! I am very sorry indeed it is so ; " and he dismounted and was much affected. After asking the sentinel his instructions, and receiving the same answer I had obtained, he said to him, " See that you do it, my man." We then mounted and rejoined the division, which had halted on the road. Lytle's body was returned in an ambulance to his friends, under flag of truce, and, as he was known to the gentlemen of the Southern army to be a gallant and chivalrous soldier, as well as the author of the beautiful poem entitled, "An- thony and Cleopatra," all were sincerely grieved at his taking off. As the ambulance containing the remains passed on its way to the enemy's lines the road was lined with officers and men, who testified their respect for the dead General by removing their hats and looking on silently. 288 THE WASHINGTON ARTILLERY. During the heat of this battle Gen. Benning, of Georgia, one of the bravest men that ever lived, came charging up to Gen. Longstreet in great agitation. He was riding an artillery horse, and was using a rope trace for a whip. His hat was gone, and he was much disordered. " General," he said, "my brigade is utterly destroyed and scattered." Gen. Longstreet approached him, and said quietly, "Don't you think you could find one man. General ? " — " One man ? " he said, with astonishment. " I suppose I could. What do you want with him?" — " Go and get him," Longstreet said very quietly, laying his hand upon his arm, "and bring him here ; then you and I and he will charge together. This is the sacred soil of Georgia, General, and we may as well die here as anywhere." He looked at Gen. Longstreet curiously a moment, then laughed, and, with an oath, lashed his horse with his rope trace, and was off like a flash. In a few moments he swept by at the head of a command that he had gathered together somehow or other, and he was in the fight again. Gen. Longstreet does not think it necessary to swear at the men, to whoop 'em up as it were ; he always adopts the demeanor of quiet assurance and confidence, which is always better than strong oaths. On the 22d of September we are once more on the march, moving towards Tyner's Station. At 3 P.M., bivouacked at Red Plouse Ford, over Chickamauga Creek. It is believed we are going into Tennessee. On the 23d, to our amazement, we are ordered to march to Chattanooga. We thought we were to leave Eosecrans behind, and move on Knoxville", drive Burnside out, and THE WASHINCTON- ARTILLERY. 289 go into Kentucky. But the programme is evidently changed, for reasons unknown to us. On the 24th we bivouacked at the foot of Missionary Eidge, in full view of Chattanooga, where Rosecrans is fortifying. We should have followed him closely into the town with cavalry and artillery. As it is, our army is encamped around the place, and we have established our head-quarters half way up the mountain. Capt. Robert Ford, of Kentucky, joins the staff as volunteer aid. He is fresh in the field, and has fine horses, fine saddles, negro boys, and an equipment that makes us ragged fellows quite envious. He is a capital fellow, and an agreeable addition to the mess. October 10. Since we have been here in front of Chatta- nooga we seem to have accomplished nothing, save throw- ing up a few weak works that are already falling down from being washed by the rains. Enemy still fortifying, and evidently has great difficulty in getting provisions over the mountain roads. We suppose Bragg is trying to starve him out. We pass our time riding about visiting friends. The Englishmen, Lawley, Eoss, and Vizetely, are here, the guests of Gen. Longstreet. They call often, and we like them greatly. Our guide (the term out here for couriers), Dyer, is a good forager, and the staff made up a purse for him one day to invest in sheep, which he has done successfully. We have a flock close by, and feast our friends on fine mutton. One day Gen. Longstreet and Latrobe dined with us. We killed the fatted mutton, and had a royal 290 THE WABSINQTON ARTILLERY. feast, ending up with a liberal supply of hot peach-brandy toddy in the General's own particular pewter quart mug. When the time came for honest folks to part, Latrobe was to be the guide, and he and Gen. Longstreet rode down the mountain side. The General must have been lost in revery, thinking of the last battle probably, or something, when he was aroused by a quick challenge, — " Halt ! who comes there?" Somehow they had reached the pickets of the enemy, and they immediately put spurs to their horses, and got Lookout Mountain over the right shoulder quickly. A great wonder the General wasti't captured ; that would have been a big thing for our friends in blue.' Have received a letter from Abingdon. My trunk, which I left behind, has been expressed to Richmond to the Spottswood Hotel. My horses are at Abingdon. I am somewhat scattered about the Confederacy, but not demoral- ized, but would like to gather myself together again some time. Rode with Gen. Gracie to call on Gen. Kershaw. Called at Gen. Bragg's head-quarters, and at Capt. Slocomb's Fifth Company Washington Artillery camp. The six guns of the battery are in position at the foot of 1 Capt. Boss, of the Austrian Hussars, in his *' Cities and Camps of the Con- federate States," says : " If any one can boast of a leg of mutton he considers it quite a company dish, to which friends must be invited. One of tlie most successful caterers is Gen. Preston, and another is his Chief of Artillery, Maj. Owen, an old friend, who, in Virginia, was aid to Col. Walton, Chief of Artillery of Longstreet's corps. Owen is believed to have a flock of sheep hidden away somewhere in the mountain. The General gave us a splendid supper one even- ing, with a profusion of delicate viands, and more than one bowl of hot puncbi made of some capital peach brandy." TH3 WASHINGTON ARTILLERY. 291 Missionary Eidge. They were severely engaged in the last battle, and lost heavily. President Davis arrived from Richmond, and Gen. Pres- ton and staff rode with him along the lines. Col. Wm. Preston Johnston stayed with us to-night. Gen. Brecken- ridge dined with us to-day. October 11. Dined with Cullen, who kindly gave me a tent, which I carried to camp in front of me upon my horse. Have it pitched, and Harris Johnston and I make ourselves quite comfortable. Gen. Preston said he believed if I was shipwrecked upon a barren island I would find all things needful for comfort. To-day, at the request of Gen. Preston, I took Hiatt, the color-sergeant of the Second Alabama Volunteers, Grade's brigade, to Gen. Bragg's head-quarters to present to the President, on behalf of that command, the flag that had been so riddled going up Horseshoe Eidge. The President received us graciously, and complimented Hiatt upon his gallantry, saying, "he had never seen a flag so tattered in such a' short time." He said, he would take it to Eichmond with him, and placed it in the custody of Col. Chestnut. The President instructed Gen. Bragg to have the sergeant announced in orders first lieutenant in his company. The President then turned to me and ' said, with affected severity, " Major Owen, I thought you were sent to South-western Virginia to take charge of the artillery in that department : how is it I find you here ? " I stammered out, "So I was, Mr. President; but Gen. Preston gave me my choice either to stay in Virginia, or go with him on the campaign, and I chose the latter, and 292 THE WASHINGTON ARTILLERY. here I am." — "Well," said Mr. Davis, "it can't be helped now ; but if you had lost your life at Ghickr amauga, I should have said you were out of your place." After, a little more chat I marched off with Lieut. Hiatt. Gen. Preston laughed when I told him how the President had pitched into me. Hiatt told me that this was his first battle, and I questioned him as to how he •felt when he was climbing the ridge with the colors ; if he wasn't afraid ? He replied modestly, " No ; I didn't think of it. The boys kept on crying out ' Go ahead ! go ahead ! ' and I went ahead." Then, after a moment's reflec- tion, added, "It's mighty queer I wasn't killed, isn't it?" I told him he was a lucky fellow to be so distinguished by his General and the President. To present a good appearance as a staff-officer when I took Hiatt to head- quarters I borrowed our surgeon's new kepi, all covered with gold braid, and Ned Preston's new coat. My horse and equipment were en regie. On my return it began to rain, and I was dreadfully afraid my 'borrowed feathers would be spoiled. On September 17th I rode over the battle-field of Chick- amauga, which is seven or eight miles from our camp. The Federal dead are still unburied, which is a shame. Perhaps Gen. Thomas thinks it beneath his dignity to ask permission to bury them ; or perhaps he thinks Gen. Bragg will do it for him. This, however, he has no right to expect, as he is little more than a mile farther from the field- than Bragg, who, if he sent large details of men eight miles- to the rear whilst active operations are going on. TEE WASBINGTON ARTILLERY. 293 would just as much have to demand a truce for the pur- pose as Gen. Thomas, whose business it is. On September 18 th the welcome order was issued by Gen. Buckner relieving Gen. Preston and staiF from duty, on account of the reorganization of the corps, and I im- mediately took the cars for Charleston, S.C., en route for Eichmond, glad to leave behind me the mud and rain of Missionary Ridge. 294 THE WASHINGTON ARTILLERY. CHAPTER Xni. BAST TENNESSEE AND DEEWEY'S BLUFF. Charleston. — Wilmington. — Eichmond. — En Route to East Tennessee. — Lynchburg. — Longstreet at Knozville. — Dublin. — Gen. Sam Jones. — My Birthday duly Celebrated. — Eichmond. — Dinner at the Oriental. — East Tennessee again. — Report to Gen. Longstreet. — Assigned to Command a Battalion of Artillery. — Winter Campaign. — Eeturn to Virginia. — Assigned to Duty with Washington Artillery at Petersburg. — Battle of Drewry's Bluff. — Butler Bottled. — Presi- dent Davis on the Field. — Gen. Beauregard in Command. — Gen. Heckman Captured. — Belger's Battery Captured. — Flag of Truce. — Col. Otis, Tenth Connecticut. — Petersburg. ON the 22d of October I reached Charleston, S.C., and called upon Gen. Beauregard, who was in com- mand of the city. He seemed pleased to hear news from Chattanooga. A large portion of the city has been de- stroyed by the enemy's shells. I dined with two of the General's staff-officers, Capts. Chisholm and Deslonde, but we had to change our restaurant twice to get out of reach of the enemy's fire. After dinner we went to the battery and there witnessed some firing between Fort Sumpter and Morris Island. On the battery were the two 700-pounder guns lately received from England. One had been injured by injudicious loading, and could not be used. In the evening I continued my journey towards Richmond. Upon arriving at Wilmington I met at the railroad station my old comrade. Surgeon T. Y. Aby, of the "Wash- ington Artillery. The Doctor had remained behind with our wounded at Gettysburg, and had been sent to Fort THE WASHINOTON ARTILLERY. 295 Delaware, from which prison he escaped, and left the country. He took passage on a blockade-runner which had been chased by a blockader and had been beached. Aby escaped, and came to Wilmington, minus all baggage. He accompanied me to Richmond to rejoin the Artillery wherever it might be. On the 24th I arrived at Richmond at 7 A.M., after a hard campaign of sixty days, was warmly greeted by Col. Walton and my brother (Lieut. E. Owen), whom I find luxuriating at the Spottswood. Excavate my trunk from the baggage room and once more don the habiliments of a gentleman of elegant leisure. Here I shall await the orders of Gen. Preston and enjoy the society of the capital. On November 19th I received a letter from Gen. Pres- ton from Abingdon telling me he does not expect to be assigned to duty soon, and advises me to look around for some other sphere. It is likely he will be sent to Mexico, with Capt. Walker Fearn, to interview Maximilian. I am enjoying Richmond society very much, riding and dancing with the pretty girls, and having a good time gen- erally. I don't believe there ever were so many pretty girls to the square inch as there are now in Richmond ; it is re- markable. There is the fascinating Miss H , at the White House ; the petite and charming Miss Lizzie G , the grand daughter of one of Virginia's ancient governors ; the beautiful trio, the Misses Hettie, Constance, and Jennie Carey, from Baltimore and Alexandria ; the irresistible Miss Mattie P , who counts her admirers by the score ; the adorable Miss Champ C , whose brilliant eyes create more palpitation of hearts than does an advance of the foe ; 296 THE WASHINGTON ARTILLERY. the lovely and sprightly sisters, the Misses Truxie and Fannie J ; the queenly Miss Sallie E , who enter- tains with such rare and royal grace in her delightful home ; those most perfect of rosebuds in this garden of girls, Miss Norvall C and Miss McF , and a host of others, whose pleasant memories, even after a lapse of years, brighten our retrospection of those dark and gloomy days of war. We had delightful starvation parties, the men furnishing the music and the hostess the bread and butter. The girls are always prettily dressed, and they don't care if you know what a hard time they have to do it. They say they twist and turn all their old things because they can't get new ones. Fashion-plates are scarce. I had a photograph of a sister sent me through the lines. The costume was peculiar, — some new kind of an overcoat, I think, which attracted the girls' attention, and I was beset by a number to let them use it as a pattern. Such is the tyrant, fashion. If any one receives a box through the lines with gloves, stockings, etc., they have many friends. When I went on recruiting service to Mobile I carried orders for stockings and corsets, and have the sizes still. While I was in ' Mobile a joke was perpetrated on a brother officer, who, upon leaving Richmond, had inquired of his belle if there was anything he could bring her on his return from his leave of absence. The next day a dainty little perfumed note reached his hands as he was leaving ou the train, bidding him to think of her, and as a reminder that he had done so he could bring her " Cosette." He read it " Corset," and was THE WASHINGTON ARTILLERY. 297 considerably puzzled over what he thought a strange re- quest, and went through a variety of mental gymnastics about sizes, proportions, etc., and finally took a friend into his confidence, and between them they managed to select what they conceived to be the article of proper dimensions. This treacherous friend, more familiar with the current literature of the day, knew that the young lady had in view "Cosette," the last production of Victor Hugo, but, in- stead of enlightening him, could not resist the temptation of a joke, and gravely assisted him in the purchase of a pair of corsets, and sent him on his way rejoicing at getting through with his difficulty. Quite elated, thinking he had managed to get the right thing, on arriving at Richmond he hastened to present his purchase. One can imagine the blushes and embarrass- ment of the fair recipient, who, being a young and timid girl, lacked the savoir faire with which a more experi- enced society girl would have concealed the fact that it was a mistake. In turn our friend was overwhelmed with confusion, and from the heights of self-satisfaction and com- placency he was at once reduced to the deepest pit of mor- tification. However, the corsets were kept, his visits and attentions redoubled, and we were apprehending serious consequences in his defection from bachelor ranks, when he was ordered to the front and the consummation of his hopes delayed until the following spring, when our gay but raffsred uniforms contributed their share toward makinof DO O his wedding a brilliant one. The joke, however, was too good to keep, though' it became dangerous to mention Victor Hugo at the mess table. To return to my story. 298 THE WASHINGTON ARTILLERY. Everything is growing dearer and dearer in Rich- mond. Some of my lady friends, married ones, told me that Confederate money was so depressed that they carried it to market in the market-basket and took home their purchases in their pocket-books. I have not yet felt the want of money, having been so long in the field, and living on Government I'ations of bacon and crackers. The quarter- master owed me a ton of money when I came from Chicka- mauga, but it is now going fast. Have just paid the French boot-maker (Francis Thomas) |125 for a pair of top boots, and $18 for a patch on an old pair. Hotel bill $25 a day. I have sold a citizen's overcoat, once very swell, to the colored porter at the Spottswood for $450. And now Bob Ford, of our staff, has arrived here with a trunk full of silver spoons, and whenever we need money we take a spoon down to the Three Balls and our uncle buys it ; and mighty glad he is to get it for his scrip. "We call this our Spoon Campaign, and, being that way inclined, I acknowledge the soft impeachment in more ways than one. Ford says I shall not go back to the army as long as he has a spoon in the locker. Just at this time private theatricals were the rage in Richmond, and a performance took place at the residence of Mrs. Ives. The play was " The Rivals." Mrs. Clement C. Clay, of Alabama, represented Mrs. Malaprop ; Miss Con- stance Carey, Lydia Languish ; and Capt. Frank Ward, of Maryland, Bob Acres. It was all admirably done. These performances were followed by fancy dress and dancing parties, the young ladies appearing in the old. THE WASHINGTON ARTILLERY. 299 resurrected costumes of the Revolutionary period of ancient Virginia belles and grandmothers, and right glad to get them of that or any other period. On one occasion, at a party given at Gen. Cooper's by his daughter. Miss Jennie, I was dancing with a pretty girl, and had been admiring lier di-ess, — lace over blue silk I took it to be, but she told me it was mosquito bar over blue muslin. After a short waltz she suddenly gave a little scream, as girls do when a mouse runs across the floor, and placed her back against the wall. " Quick ! quick ! " she cried, in agonized tones. " My cloak ! Take me home : my spencer has bursted open in the back." The dress was pretty, but frail. Another young lady at this same ball had made use of a whole piece of mosquito-netting, and with a long train and lots of ruchings and puffings, with concomitants of Turkey red run through the puffs and a single bow of red ribbon to match, really presented a most elegant ball costume, and one which any man could not have told from a Worth or Parisian importation. Confidentially she told me that her skirts were so arranged as not to cut into it too much, as her mother had only loaned it, and designed making use of it for household purposes. Some demure, long-faced people said it was a shame to be dancing while our soldiers were suffering in the field ; but we danced and had a good time when we could, for who could tell how soon any of us might fill a ditch, yclept a soldier's grave ? And we didn't take the trouble to think of it. Besides, Gen. Lee said, " Let the young fellows enjoy themselves : they'll fight all the better for it." 300 THE WASEINOTON ARTILLERY. But after all I became tired of inaction, and Ford said it must be that my affaires du coeur were going wrong, but says if it is spoons that's the matter he has some left. But no ; I want to get away from Richmond. The fact is, my girl is looking favorably upon a Brigadier-General, who sports more gold lace than I, as a Major, can afford, and I am miserable. So I apply to my friend. Col. Johnston, to have me ordered off. "VSTiere to? Well, no matter; away from Richmond, to South-western Virginia, where I can be good and miserable as possible. So it is all ar- ranged, and I am delighted to get back to the field again, and am told to write my own order, which I proceed to do, and here it is : — Adjutant and Inspector-General's Office, BiCHUOND, December IG, 1863. Extract Special Orders, No. 298 : — VIII. Major W. M. Owen, Artillery, P.A.C.S., will proceed to Abingdon, S.-W. "Virginia, and resume command of the artillery of the district lately commanded by Brig.-Gen. Wm. Preston. He will report to the senior officer commanding in the district upon his arrival, who will see to the execution of this order. Should the original batteries have been removed from the district, the commanding officer will, if practicable, place the requisite number of guns under the command of Major Owen. By command of the Secretary of War, JOHN WITHERS, Assistant Adjutant- General. I immediately prepared for roughing it again, and started upon my journey. After many delays, caused by the THE WASHINOTON ARTILLERY. 301 destruction of the railroads by the Federal General Averill, I reached Abingdon on Christmas eve, and the members of Gen. Preston's staff, who came here after Chickamauga, and were like so many Micawbers, waiting for something to turn up, greeted me enthusiastically. The General was absent, so I took possession of his comfortable quarters at Mrs. Triggs's, and from thence wrote to Gen. Longstreet, enclosing my orders. He is in East Tennessee, some- where beyond Bristol. He had been sent by Gen. Bragg to capture Knoxville, but his well-laid plans came to naught by the carelessness or indifference to orders of one of his Generals, who, having been instructed to have his men make and carry fascines when they charged the enemy's works, failed to do so. This officer maintained that his men would go over the works without such nonsense ; and when it came to the charge they advanced without them, and approaching the fort ran against lines of telegraph-wire stretched about it, tripping them and causing confusion. Those who did get over and into the ditch found it too deep to get out of again, and the enemy, who had abandoned the front line when the charge was begun, now returned to the parapet, and threw lighted shells and grenades amongst the assailants in the ditch. Col. Fizer, of the Seventeenth Mississippi regiment, always brave, sprang upon the parapet and lost an arm. Capt. Winthrop, an English officer^ who was with the Washington Artdlery at Gettysburg, also dis- tinguished himself. He was shot through the shoulder, and the blade of his sabre was snapped in two by a bullet while he was encouraging, by example, the men to advance. ' Twenty-second British Ini'antiy. 302 THE WASSJNGTON ARTILLERY. Gen. Bumside having been reinforced from Chattanooga after Bragg's defeat on Missionary Eidge, Longstreet re- tired in the direction of Bristol. All this I hear from the staff as the news from the front. On Christmas-day we were all at a loss what to do for the accustomed eggnog and trimmings, when, at the suggestion of some great genius, we determined to caU upon one of the belles of the town, the youngest member of the staff, and the ladies' man, promising to introduce us all. We went, and the young lady was quite charming. We had all the eggnog and plum-cake we desired, and had a pleasant time of it. On the 27th Capt. Sanford and I rented half of a small cottage and fixed ourselves up in soldier fashion and settled down to await orders. We passed the time reading Pick- wick and Shakespeare, — the extent of our library, — and mending old clothes, in which accomplishment I had be- come quite proficient, having been provided with a collec- tion of needles, thread, buttons, and the like, done up in a little leather case, the gift of a lady in New Orleans. On the 31st received a letter from Col. Sorrel, Long- street's Adjutant-General, saying that he has no objection to the immediate return to my command of Jeffries's bat- tery, but that Davidson's battery, now with the battalion of Lieut. -Col. King, cannot be spared. Leyden's bat- talion, to which Jeffries's battery is attached, is at Bristol, and, beiag within the department of Gen. Sam Jones, this battery may be ordered to me by him on my application. On the 7th of January, 1864, I left Abingdon for Dublin, to report to Gen. Jones, and upon my arrival THE WASHINGTON ARTILLERY. 303 found him absent on a scout, but at head-quarters were Capts. Willie Myers and Jim Fraser, two devil-may-care fellows, who insisted upon celebrating my birthday on the 10th. From a beef-contractor we procured a barrel of milk, and drew upon the commissary for spiritus fru- menti, and the result was plenty of milk-punch with the invariable next-morning headaches. On the 15th Gen. Jones returned from the scout, and having no duty to assign me to at present, I applied for leave for a short trip to Richmond. I am restless, and feel that I must go and see the dearest girl in the world, for I hear that there's a General and a Colonel now besieging her. I went, I saw, and I returned with a flea of mastodon proportions in my ear. The Colonel was ahead by several lengths. I was miserable now, thor- oughly, and determined to throw my life away in battle with the Yank. I was crushed completely. However, notwithstanding the broken heart, in Richmond I dined at the Oriental restaurant with our English friends, Ross, Lawley, Vizetely, of "Illustrated London News," Capts. Woodruif, of the Coldstream Guards, and Hewitt, of the Royal Navy ; and if it hadn't been fof this relaxation the most desperate consequences might have resulted. The bill of fare I preserved as a souvenir. It represents Confederate prices in Confederate scrip. In English gold it was not as much as in peace times, and the bill was set- tled in English sovereigns. I held one in my hand to see how it felt after the long deprivation of such coin. This is the bill of fare : — 304 THE WASHISGTOS ARTILLERT. Soup, per plate . . . $1 50 TTirifS. Turkey, " ... S 50 Champagne, per bottle . . $50 00 Chicken, " ... 3 50 Madeira, " . 50 00 Eockfish, " ... 5 00 Port, ii . 25 00 Eoast beef " ... 3 00 Claret, i» . 20 00 Boast pork" . . . 3 00 Sherry, (( . 35 00 Beefsteaks, per dish . 3 SO H.im and eggs, " S 50 ' Liquors. Boiled eggs .... 2 00 French brandy, per drink . S3 00 Fried oysters .... 5 00 Apple i, cc . 2 00 Baw " .... 3 00 Bye whiskey, " . 200 Cabbage 1 00 Potatoes 1 00 Malt Liquors. Porter, per bottle . . . S12 00 Pure coffee, per cup . . 3 00 Ale, . 12 00 Pure tea, " . . 2 00 Ale, half bottle . . 6 00 Fresh milk . . . 2 00 Bread and butter . . 1 50 Cigars. Hot rolls 1 50 Fine HaT.ina .... . SI 00 Game of all kinds in season. Terrapins serred up in every style. Peter K. Mokgax, Sk., Proprietor. Xine of lofl sat down to dinner, and the following is the score : — OETENTAL SALOOX. RiCHMO>"i>, Ta., Jan. 17, 1S64. 5 bottles Madeira . . . $250 00 6 bottles claret 1 urn cocktail Jelly . . . Soup for nine Venison steak Fried potatoes Seven birds . Baked potatoes Celery . . . Bread and butter Coffee . . . Apples . . ■ Dinner §13 50 31 50 9 00 24 00 9 00 13 50 14 00 IS 00 12 00 $144 50 Cake . . . 1 dozen cigars Total . . 120 00 65 00 20 00 20 00 12 00 §631 50 THE WASEISaTOX AJtTILLERT. 305 Capt. Hewitt is a Victoria Cross man, having gained it at Inkerman. He had command of the navy battery, and when the Eussians charged he stuck to his gun to the last minute, then -with a leaden bullet and mallet, spiked it, and got off unharmed. TThat a pity our boys have no V. C.'s to look forward to ! They are doing things every day that deserve decorations. On the llth of February orders came for me to join liongstreet in East Tennessee, and by first train I am off, horses and all, to join my old friends at jMorristown, where I am met by Latrobe and Surgeon ilaury, and my return is duly celebrated. Gen. Longstreet is at New Market, to which place head-quarters are to be moved to-morrow, so I am in the nick of time for the advance. On the 12th rode with staff to Xew ilarket, where I met Gen. Longstreet, who welcomes me back with a cordial grip. He quizzed me considerably, having heard a false rumor that I had become a benedict. I was assisted to the command of the Thirteenth Virginia battalion artillery, 17 guns, 540 men, its commander, Lieut. -Col. King, being absent on sick leave. The weather is very cold, and the ground covered with snow nearly a foot deep. The enemy is moving near Strawberry Plains, and Col. Alexander's battalion of artillery is ordered to that point. The horses are suffer- ing so much from exposm-e it is with great difficulty they puU the heavy guns along the road. Our cavalry has all been sent to Gen. Jos. E. Johnston, and we can do but little without their aid. "Wlule dining to-day at the head-quarters of the sur- 306 • THE WASHIXGTOy ARTILLERY. geons Cnllen, Barksdale, and Maury, a young soldier of Kershaw's brigade -n-as brought in with his right hand crushed. He had deliberately placed it upon the railroad track, and allowed a locomotive to pass over it. The dinner-table was cleared, and the boy placed upon it, and ia a little while his hand was flung out of the window. A friend of the boy had wounded himself a short time since, and had been sent home ; so this one was trying the same means to accomplish that end. It was the act of a poltroon, and he. was made an example of and coinpelled to remaia ia the hospital. I had seen a man or two who had shot fingers off in battle to obtain sick leave, but never before one who deliberately allowed a locomotive to run over him. Eeceived marching orders and reported with the Thir- teenth battalion to Gen. Kershaw. After moving a few miles towards Bristol, and countermarching two or three times, reports were received tliat the enemy was following us, and we finally encamped at Greenville. Here we have terrible weather for men and horses, snowinsc and sleeting all the time, and the men badly provided with underclothing and shoes. There is much suffering. The batteries composing the Thirteenth Virginia bat- talion are the Davidson, Lowry, Einggold, and the" Otey" battery of Richmond, Ya. The latter is a noteworthy organi- zation, composed of the best material of the young men of Richmond and Virginia generally. They are well equipped, well disciplined, and commanded by officers of high stand- ing and ability. The officers are as follows : Capt. D. L. Walker, Lieuts. Boiling, Gunn, Norvell, and Langhome. THE WASHINGTON ARTILLERY. 307 The other batteries are composed of good Virginia boys, who are always willing and trying to do their level best, and not afraid to handle the axe, the pick, or the spade, which all wiU be called upon to use ere long. Greenville is the residence of Gov. Andy Johnson, and his tailor-shop was pointed out to us where he worked at his trade. In a house occupied by the surgeons are many hundreds of congressional reports and public documents belonging to the Governor. We are living in the snow, and have a few old tents. My tent has a large mud chimney, and as the quarter- master has furnished plenty of clean straw we are quite comfortable. Our old friends of Preston's staff paid us a visit as they were en route for the Mississippi river. On the 29th of March we are again on the move towards Bristol. The weather is intensely cold, and some of the drivers are frostbitten. After much hardship, marching over muddy roads, and through snow and sleet, and ford- ing the sw"olIen currents of the Watauga and Holston rivers, with many narrow escapes from dro-vvning of men and horses, we encamp near Bristol and report to Gen. Field. This campaign, doing nothing But marching and coun- termarching, has been a hard one, and at a season of the year when other armies are enjoying themselves in com- fortable winter-quarters. President Davis having appointed the 8th of April as a day of fasting and prayer, our cook reports us out of bacon ; we breakfast therefore on rice, corn-bread and sorghum, and consequently we are hungry all day. 308 THE WASHINGTON ARTILLERY. Am growing very tired of this kind of life : it is too dull. I would rather be in Richmond, fed by Ford's spoons, even if the dearest girl in the world should smile upon the " General" and the " Colonel." On the 12th of April the report reaches us in camp that Longstreet's corps is going back to Lee in Virginia. I immediately apply to go with it, and am referred by Gen. Longstreet to Gen. Alexander, now Chief of Artillery, for assignment. The news of the resignation of Col. Walton has just reached him, and, as there is a vacancy in the field-officers of the Washington Artillery, I am ordered back to my well-loved command. I am delighted, and shall be off like a shot to-morrow by rail, my boy following with my horses. So farewell for- ever. South-western Virginia ! After travelling night and day I reached Petersburg on the morning of the 15th of April. At the station I found my brother's servant with a horse for me, and I immediately rode to the camp of the Washington Artillery at the Model Farm, where my reception by the boys is quite gratifying, and I am glad once more to get back home. Officers and men look so jaunty, clean, and neat, and are so well uniformed, that I feel ashamed of the mud of Ten- nessee upon my boots," and my shabby uniform, all sun- burnt and faded. After presenting my orders to Major Eshleman, the Adjutant (my successor) takes me in charge, and to his quarters, where I enjoy the luxury of a hot bath, and, as my trunk is in Richmond, draw upon my brother, Capt. Owen, for clean clothes, and once ao-ain take mine ease. Model Farm is a collection of houses about two miles TBE WASHINGTON ARTILLERY. 309 from Petersburg, built before the war for agricultural ex- perimenting. There are a large barn, stables, two rows of cottages, on each side of an open space of about an acre. At the extreme end is the superintendent's house, now used as head-quarters. The company officers occupy the cottages, and the cannoneers the large barn. The guns are parked in the x)pen space in the centre of the group, and as a place for winter-quarters answers admira- bly. After my promotion from Adjutant of the Battalion to Major of Artillery, Sergt. -Major E. I. Kursheedt was pro- moted to the adjutantcy, and Sergt. W. A. Randolph to be Sergeant-Major, — both excellent appointments of well-deserving and brave men. Col. Walton having resigned the colonelcy of the Artil- lery, has been appointed Inspector General of Field Artil- lery of the Confederate States. Major B. F. Eshleman is in command of the Battalion. The following changes have taken place : — Capt. C. W. Squires, of the First company, has been promoted to Major of Artillery in the trans-Mississippi Department, and has been succeeded by Lieut. Edward Owen as Captain. Capt. M. Buck Miller has been promoted to Major, and has been assigned to a Battalion of Virginia Artillery. He is succeeded by Lieut. Andrew Hero as Captain. Sergt. -Major C. L. C. Dupuy has been appointed to a lieutenancy of Artillery, and has gone to Vicksburg. First Sergeant Thomas Y. Aby, of First company, has been appointed Assistant Surgeon of the Battalion. 310 THE WASHINOTOJV ARTILLERY. The Major-Domo and wife disappeared when Col. Wal- ton resigned. On the 16th of April drilling is resumed and prepara- tions pushed forward with a view to putting the command in a condition for service. Gen. Lee is at Gordons vUle, and the Battalion is desirous of joining him there ; but our wish is not gratified. The command has been at Petersburg since September last, when Longstreet went to Chickamauga. It was to have accompanied him, with the troops of Hood and Kershaw, but got this far and was halted. Desiring to make a presentable appearance in Peters- burg, my good friend Mrs. Dunn has employed a sewing woman to renovate my uniform coat, to turn it inside out, at the cost of $50. This coat was quite stunning when I went to Mobile, — now it is very shabby ; but a new one costs $500. On May 5 we are suddenly aroused to activity. Gen. Pickett, now commanding the Petersburg defences, orders our guns to the City Point road. "We are short of serviceable horses, and all the teams in the city are im- pressed into service. Horses belonging to omnibuses, express-wagons, buggies, — in fact, any animal that can help haul a gun is sent to us and forced to serve. Thirty transports full of the enemy's troops and five monitors are reported coming up the James river and at Bermuda Hundreds, Gen. B. F. Butler in command. After much trouble with the new horses we get off with the following guns : — THE WASHINGTON ARTILLERY. 311 First company, Capt. E. Owen . . . 4 guns. iirst company, Capt. Jii. Uwen Second company, Capt. Richardson Third company, Capt. Hero . , , . '6 Fourth company, Capt. Norcom . . ,3 13 in all, which are placed in works on the City Point road. May 6. — Enemy reported coming up the City Point road. 5 P.M. — Firing heard across the Appomattox river. Enemy has pushed out a force from Bermuda Hundreds to Walthal Junction, on the Richmond Railroad. Has been attacked and driven back. The enemy is in large force, and we have but small support, — part of Thirty-first (N.C.) regiment and the city militia. The latter are jolly cases, — have their lunch- baskets with them, and take it all as a big joke. How little they realize the horrors of war, and what may be in store for them at home ! Here we met for the first time, in the ranks of the militia, Messrs. Hare, Kevan, Young, Potts, Friend, Duggan, and Cameron, — gentlemen whom we shall probably often meet during our sojourn here. May 7. — All quiet along the lines this A.M. Lieut. - Col. Eshleman (lately promoted) is ordered at 10.45 across the Appomattox to command the artillery there, taking with him the battery of Capt. Owen, and I am left in charge of the lines of Petersburg. Guns in position as follows : 9 guns of Washington Artillery, 5 guns of Reid's battalion. May 9. — At 2 A.M. one section of Capt. Hero's battery is ordered to report to Capt. Sturdevant to attack gun- 312 THE WASnmOTON ARTILLERY. boats in the Appomattox river. 1 P.M. heavy firing in the direction of Fort Clifton. 11.30 heavy firing across the river in the direction of Swift Creek. May 10. — A severe engagement is fought again at Walthal Junction, resulting in a repulse of Butler's forces. May 11. — 7.30 A.M. all the guns of the Washington Artillery ordered across the Appomattox river to positions on the Eichmond Turnpike. 9 P.M. all the infantry and artillery march towards Eichmond, and bivouac on the roadside near "Walthal's. "We have been marching in line of battle, skirmishers on our flank towards the enemy at Bermuda Hundreds. The enemy is close at hand, and the strictest silence is enjoined. Drums and bugles not allowed. Gen. Corse is in command, and he bunks with us for the night. May 12. — March at 3.30 A.M. The reveille in the enemy's camp can be heard, less than a mUe distant. The utmost silence and caution ordered : we are crossing his entire front. Column halted at the Half- Way House, ten miles from Richmond. 11 A.M. the enemy has dis- covered our movements, and attacks our rear-guard of South Carolina cavalry. Skirmishing kept up one hour. 12 M. occupy the fortifications around Drewry's Bluff, leaving one section of First company Washington Artil- lery, under Capt. Owen, at the Half-Way House on picket. The enemy is moving, and has now possession of the road we have passed over, between us and Peters- burg. 2.25" P.M. Capt. Owen opens fire upon the enemy's cavalry, and continues firing until dark. One brigade of the enemy is engaged and repulsed by Corse's THE WASHINGTON ARTILLERY. 313 brigade and three guns of ours. Enemy's cavalry re- ported moving around our right towards Chesterfield Court- House. May 13. — Heavy skirmishing all along the line. At 4 P.M. Gen. Ransom's position on the right of our outer line, near the Woolridge House, is flanked by the enemy under Gen. Gilmore. 6.15 P.M. our guns are withdrawn to inner line of works . May 14. — 2 A.M. our whole force of infantry falls back to the inner line of works immediately around Drewry's Bluff, leaving our outer line to the enemy, who occupies it without delay. We now have our backs to the wall, as it were, and will fight right here. Gen. Beauregard, with Colquitt's brigade and Macon's battery, arrived from Peters- burg via Chesterfield Court-House. The entire armament of the Washington Artillery in the works is as follows : — On extreme left, two (2) guns of Third company, under Lieut. Stocker. In centre, four (4) guns of Second company, under Capt. Eichardson, supported by Hagood's S. C. brigade at Fort Stevens. Four (4) guns of Third company, Capt. Hero, sup- ported by Clingman's brigade. Three (3) guns of Fourth company, Capt. Norcom ; also four (4) stationary guns, worked by Fourth company, sup- ported by Corse and Ransom. Four (4) guns of First company, Capt. E. Owen, at Gregory's Crossing, supported by Colquitt's brigade. Twenty-one (21) guns in all. Heavy skirmishing all day along the lines ; the enemy's sharp-shooters sweep 314 THE WASSINGTON ARTILLERY. with their rifles the barbette works, causing us a loss of four killed, four wounded, mostly in the Fourth company. President Davis arrives from Richmond, and visits Gen. Beauregard at Drewry's house. Capt. Owen and I call upon him. Early this A.M. Col. Eshleman, Adjt. Kursheedt, and I mounted our horses and went out to take a look at the lines. We visited the positions of all our guns, and upon our return, discovering that the sharp-shooters were observing us, we halted behind some log-cabins that had been used as winter-quarters by some troops. To go for- ward or to retreat was equally hazardous, so we held a council of war, and determined to run the gauntlet across an open field that would take us to the turnpike behind a ridge. We agreed to ride in a bunch, so that we Would present but a small mark for the enemy, and, gathering our horses well in hand, gave them the spur and started. In- stantly the sharp-shooters began firing, and the buUets flew by us like the buzzing of a swarm of bees. Our good steeds seemed conscious of our peril, and went like the wind. Some close shots were made, but no hits. Finally we heard a ' ' thud " of a bullet, and Eshleman's horse rose up on his hind legs, and Kursheedt and I thought he was a goner, but he came down again, and away we went. We reached the ridge, and were hid from view, right thankful we had run the gauntlet so successfully and with whole skins. Upon examination we found that the bullet had struck Eshleman's saddle-pocket, leaving a heavy indentation, but had not penetrated. The horse felt it as a sting, and so sprang up and forward. THE WASHmOTOK ARTILLERY. 315 We rode back to our head-quarters provided with a good appetite for our plain breakfast after our exhilarating exer- cise. On Sunday, May 15, sharp-shooting continues all day, and the positions of our guns are hot. This evening the following order for battle was issued : — Head-quarteks Department, N. C. and S. Virginia, May 15, 1864. Special Order No. 7 : — The following temporary organization of divisions for attack is hereby announced : — Major- General Hoke's Division. — Corse's, Clingman's, Johnson's, and Hagood's brigades. Major-Oeneral Ransom's Division. — Barton's, Grade's, Kemper's and Hoke's brigades. Reserve. — Brig.-Gen. Colquitt commanding, Colquitt's and Ransom's brigades. Aktillert. — Hoke's Division. ■ — Battalion Washington Artillery, Lieut. -Col. Eshleman. Ransom's Division. — Lightfoot's battalion, Lieut.-Col. Lightfoot. ColqmU's Reserve. — Macon's "Richmond Fayette Artillery," Sladen's battery, and the battery under Capt. Martin, all under command of Major W. M. Owen, Washington Artillery. By command of Gen. Beauregard, JOHN M. OTEY, A.A. General. At 5 A.M., on the morning of the 16th of May, our artillery opens fire all along the line. A heavy fog con- ceals our movements from the enemy's view. At 5.45 Hoke's division springs over the works and charges the enemy. Eansom, who had advanced upon the river road to strike the enemy's right under Gen. Heckman, did so with spirit, and that Federal General is brought in a 31 G TSE WASHINGTON ARTILLERY. prisoner. The First company (four guns), under Capt. Owen, is ordered to follow Hoke's division down the turn- pike, where he engages a heavy battery of the enemy in front and apparently directly on the turnpike. The guns of the enemy fire high, and ours, having better range, soon pile up his horses and cripple his guns. Hagood's brigade now goes forward to the charge, and, advancing directly upon the enemy's guns, captures them. At this moment Capt. Owen and his Lieutenant, Galbraith. fall wounded, the latter mortally. Sladen's battery of the reserve is now sent in to relieve Owen, and its Captain is severely wounded while getting into position. Two guns of the Fayette artillery of the reserve, under Lieut. Clopton, are hurried oiF to the right of our liae, where Gen. Corse is severely engaged. When Hagood secured the enemy's guns, one of them, a 20-pounder Parrott, was most gallantly manned by Col. Eshleman, Adjt. Kursheedt, and Sergt.-Major Eandolph of the Washington Artillery, and fired a number of rounds at the enemy. Gen. Beauregard has established his head-quarters on the turnpike, opposite Fort Stevens, where the Second company Washington Artillery is stationed. The reserve artillery is in rear of him. Here reports are received from the field. Clingman, of Hoke's division, reports the enemy fighting hard, and wants reinforcements. Johnson and Hagood are driving the enemy, and are fighting splen- didly. "Wait," says Beauregard, "until I get my left (Ransom) well in ! " StaflT-oflJcers are sent out there for news. Prisoners are passing by in large numbers. Capt. THE WASnmOTON ARTILLERY. 317 Belger, who commanded the enemy's battery, is a prison- er. The gallant soldier seemed quite dazed at his mis- fortune, and couldn't comprehend the situation. He asked " What battery was that, that I was fighting ? " One of the boys told him, " First company "Washington Artillery." The Captain's expression changed, as he replied with emphasis, " D — n that Washington Artillery ! I have been looking for it for three years, and have found it at last." Then he moved on to Richmond. The enemy is giving way, and we listen to the yells and volleys of our troops as they press forward through the timber. Our wounded are being removed to the rear. Capt. Owen passes mounted on his horse, although as bloody as Banquo's ghost from a wound in the head. Dr. Chopin rides forward to examine his hurt, and pronounces it severe but not dangerous. When Owen fell, his brave and brawny Sergeant, Jack McGaughey, carried him upon his back to his horse., Lieut. Galbraith, gallant dash- ing Johnnie, is mortally wounded. The battery has suf- fered terribly. Byron Phelps is carried by. He says, in answer to my inquiry after his wounds, " Major, I have six holes through me, and all by one ball ; " and so he had, through both his arms and breast.^ Peychaud is killed, and his brother, running forward to where the body lies beside the road, falls badly wounded. George Chambers, the fourth of the brothers in the Battalion, is mortally hurt. Everett, who is always on the list of wounded, is struck in the foot, and Rossiter is hit again. 'Phelps's left arm was amputated in New Orleans, in 1885, twenty-one years after the battle, the bone haTing become diseased. 318 THE WASHINaTON ARTILLEBY. At 1 P.M. the captured battery was brought in. It consisted of three 20-pounder Parrotts and two 12-pounder Napoleons, and they were presented to the First company upon the field by General Hagood, in recognition of their gallantry in engaging and disabling a heavier battery than their own. Our left has now got well in and the enemy is badly beaten. A small force still holds on at the Half-Way House with two pieces of artillery. Preparations are made to capture them, and two of Capt. Eichardson's guns, which have been brought from Fort Stevens, are sent down the road to the skirmish line, and open fire. We soon got a reply, and one of the enemy's solid shot struck at the feet of President Davis and Gen. Beauregard, and they changed their base to the other side of the road, out of range. The enemy soon limbers up and makes off, and Butler is in full retreat to Bermuda Hundreds. It was a part of Beauregard's plan, that Gen. Whiting, with a body of troops on the turppike, near Petersburg, should immediately advance as soon as we had joined battle with Butler, at the first sound of our guns. Marching up the road, he would naturally fall upon Butler's rear. It was now afternoon, and Butler was in full retreat, and we were waiting for Whiting's guns to assure us he was amongst the fugitives. Gen. Beauregard and President Davis, together with Col. William Preston Johnston, were standing on the works listening intently. Presently a single gun was heard in the distance. "Ah!" said Mr. Davis. "At last!" and a smile came over his face. But that solitary gun was all ; no other was heard. Whiting has failed us, and Butler TSE WASHINGTON ARTILLERY. 319 would get back behind his entrenchments at Bermuda Hundreds. At 6 P.M.. Johnson's and Clingman's brigades, and the Fayette artillery, and two guns of Martin's battery of the reserve are sent in pursuit. Butler left behind his dead and wounded, his wagons, and thousands of small arms. Yesterday William Forrest, a driver in Richardson's battery, distinguished himself by replacing the battery guidon on Fort Stevens, where it was shot away twice by the enemy's sharp-shooters. It was an act equal to that of Sergt. Jasper's in the first Revolution, — though just then times were too stirring with us for it to attract more than passing mention. Gen. Gracie told me, after the battle, that when his brigade struck Heckman's, on the right of the enemy's line, it broke at once, and as our men pressed forward, firing, a fine-looking man dressed in a blue coat and high black hat of a Federal officer was observed mixed up with our troops, shouting at the top of his voice, " Go in, boys ! Give 'em hell ! " One of Grade's men stopped, carefully surveyed the stranger, and said, " Look h'yer. Mister, those clothes don't go well with this crowd ! You come along with me. That 'ere hat's a beauty : let's swap." The prisoner was Gen. Heckman. His capture, under the circumstances, caused much merriment at the bivouac that night. The losses in the Battalion Washington Artillery at Drewry's Bluff were as follows : — First Company. — Killed : H. Peychaud, George Chambers, T. G.. Simmons. Wounded : Capt. E. Owen, Lieut. J. M. Galbraith, Corporal S. Turner, Edward Pey- 320 THE WASHINGTON ARTILLERY. chaud, J. J. Nornient, C. Eossiter, T. J. Wilson, Joseph Myers, C. A. Everett, Byron Phelps. Captured: P. O. Fazende. Second Company. — "Wounded : M. J. Lapham, George Gessner, I. N. Greenman. Third Company. — Killed : H. Madden. Wounded : G. Guillotte, A. Guillotte, A. Leefe, James Crilly. Fourth Company. — Killed : E. G. McDonald, John Faulkes, E. A. Mallard, Edward Condon. Wounded : Sergt. John B. Valentine, J. S. Hood, A. Norcom, William Martin. Total loss, 30. On the morning of May 17 we marched towards Peters- burg, following the route of the beaten enemy. Counted twenty-five dead horses, and as many dead men, where the captured battery (Belger's) had fought. Bivouacked eight miles from Petersburg. Communication open. Wise's and Martin's brigades join us to-day, ' under command of D. H. Hill. It is reported we have taken 1,600 prisoners. In spite of the seriousness of the battle-field some amus- ing things will occur. Frequently an ofiicer's horse wiU give him trouble, and raise a laugh at his expense. During the battle of the 16th Col. George Lay, formerly of the old army, and on the staff of Gen. Scott, was serving on the staff of Gen. Beauregard. During the early part of the day the General had dismounted and sat upon the earth- work, giving orders through his staff, and receiving reports from the General commanding the troops engaged on the right, left, and centre. Col. Lay's horse became right restive when the shells would scream past or explode near THE WASBINGTOlSr ARTILLEMT. 321 by, and gave him considerable trouble as he held him by the bridle in the road. In front of the earthwork was a deep ditch full of water, and the Colonel's horse manojuvrcd disagreeably close to its edge. Finally a shell burst close by, and the horse backed, and continued backing in spite of his (Lay's) hallooing " Whoa ! Whoa ! " and being dragged at the other end of the bridle. The contest between the two, brain and matter, became so intense that all the staff laughed and watched. The gallant steed was rapidly bringing his rear to bear upon the edge of the ditch, notwithstanding the appeals of the Colonel, when, with one more step too far to the rear, ker-splash ! he went into the muddy ditch, leaving the Colonel upon the bank in a quandary as to what was the next proper move to rescue the brute, — coaxing wouldn't do it, and no other means could be resorted to. And there the Colonel sat on the edge of that ditch during the whole battle watching his horse, who seemed content to be safe from the enemy's fire. When the battle was over a pioneer party dug steps into the ditch and the sensible brute was rescued. Durinff the battle of the Wilderness Col. Charles Mar- shall, of Gen. Lee's staff, was riding a parti-colored horse that he had lately purchased in a country town. He happened to be riding through an old field, that had a new grow^th of scrubby pines and some large stumps in it. When the firing began Marshall found his horse capering about in a queer fashion, and, espying a large stump, he placed thereon his fore feet, and began moving around in a waltzing fashion. The hotter the fire the more he would 322 THE WASHINGTON ARTILLERY. waltz. The Colonel had no desire to keep the thing up : it was getting monotonous ; but all at once there was a luU in the conflict, and then the well-trained circus horse — for such he was — was as easily guided as the Colonel wished ; but he never rode him under fire again. May 18. — 8.45 A.M. heavy skirmishing in front of Hoke and Hill. One section of Fourth company engaged all day at intervals with skirmishers. In the afternoon a Federal brigade made a forward move, but was driven back. This P.M. I had concluded to ride into Petersburg to see some lady friends, and had just completed an elaborate toilet, when I received an order to go and construct works for artillery, on Clay's farm, for sixteen guns. Worked all night with large details with pick and spade, and at 6 A.M. opened fire upon the enemy's lines, firing thirty-three minutes. I don't think we did much damage, save to the wagon-trains and quartermasters in the rear. The front line always " hugs the dirt " during artillery firing, and generally escapes much damage. May 20, A.M. — Ordered to report to Gen. Bushrod Johnson for duty on his lines in front of the enemy. He places under my command two 30-pounder Parrptts, at the Howlett-House battery, on the James river, and three 20-pounder Parrotts (those captured at Drewry's BluflT) of Owen's battery under Lieut. Brown. ■ - To-day an assault was made upon the enemy's line, which was carried. Gen. Walker is missing. It is sup- posed he is either killed or a prisoner. Gen. Johnson's head-quarters are at Mr. Friend's house THE WASHINGTON ARTILLERY. 323 a large dwelling built of brick. He has a pleasant staff, but his mess arrangements are not good ; has sharpened sticks for forks, and plates and cups are scarce ; but, as I always carry knife, spoon, and fork in my haversack, I am all right. We all sleep in the parlor upon the bare floor. The first night I was with the General, two monitors in the James river opened fire with their 15-inch guns. The shells flew high over our house, went beyond, and exploded. At the first report the General sat bolt upright and said, " Boys ! boys! hear that? Those infernal things will hit us sure." We assured him that they did not have our range, and there was no danger ; but he said, "But, boys, the blamed thing might wabble ! " We had a laugh at the Generars ex- pense, who was as brave a man as Julius Caesar. The idea 'of a monster gun on a monitor wabbling ! At 2 P.M. on the 21st the monitors opened fire on the Hewlett battery. Major W. T. Blakemore, of Gen. John- son's staffs, was struck by a fragment of shell, causing the loss of a foot. His beautiful mare, "Filsey," was killed by the same shell, and they were found lying together on the field. Blakemore was a great favorite with us all, and had served with distinction at Chickamauga and Drewry's Bluff. We were very sorry to lose his companionship and gallant services. The batteries of Richardson, Hero, and Norcom, of the Washington Artillery, have been ordered to the rear to rest. These batteries were all engaged at Drewry's Bluff", and did most gallant service. At 10 P.M. the skirmishing upon our front becoming quite heavy Gen. Johnson requested me to ride with him 324 THE WASHINGTON ARTILLERY. to ascertain the cause. It had ceased when we reached the front, but it is not very pileasant to ride along in the dark expecting every moment the skirmish line to open fii'e. At 10.30, May 22, the monitors again throw their immense shells at the Howlett battery. At 5 P.M. there ia a flag of truce along our front to bring in the dead lying between the lines, left there after the assault of the 20th. The bodies have become very offensive. Under the flag of truce I met Col. Otis, of the Tenth Connecticut regiment, and Major Sanford, of the Seventh Connecticut, and from them learned that Capt. Ashby, Tliird New York Artillery, commanded the three 20-pounder Parrotts, and Capt. Belger the two 12-pounder Napoleon guns taken at Drewry's. Ashby, as was Owen, was wounded in the head. Gen. Bushrod Johnson is promoted Major-General and put in command of Johnson's, "Wise's, Eansom's, and Walker's brigades. For the present I am his Chief of Artillery. On the 26th of May I apply to be relieved, being com- pletely done up, and am ordered back to the "Washino-ton Artillery, at Petersburg. Then, obtaining leave of absence, go to Eichmond to see Capt. Owen and Miss II . The former is fast recovering from his wound, and is being nursed by our good friends, the Johnstons. I fear the "Colonel," has been in Eichmond, as my reception by Miss H is decidedly and refreshingly cool, and consequently I am THE WASHINGTON ARTILLERY. 325 again in despair, and return to my duties with the Battalion at Petersburcf.i 1 Extract from a second letter from a Federal soldier present at the battle of Drewiy's Bluff, dated October 29, 1883 : — "Dbae Owbn: — " After writing you I succeeded in getting a Government map, made from sur- veya by the U. S. Engineers in 1867. " I enlarged the immediate suixoundings of Drewry's, of which I send you a tracing, with such information as I have been able to collect on the subject from correspondence with the best informed men of all theXJ. S. regiments east of the turnpite as well as a personal going over the map with many of them. " The situation on our side east of the road at the opening of the action is abso- lutely correct. The position of Grade's and Terry's and Barton's regiments is also correct I am satisfied, where the main lines came in contact. " The pickets of the Ninth New Jersey were in 'Willis's house and yard when the skirmish line of the Twenty-third Alabama Battalion routed them out, and while they engaged the attention of our main line, Col. Stansel, of the Forty- first Alabama, with his skirmishers, swung around what Gen. Beauregard calls our ' weak right,' into the road below Mr. Gregory's, when hearing the heavy firing still in their rear, and realizing the situation, with no unnecessary delay skipped back by the same route by which they came, into their main line. " There must have been over an hour's hot work across that little creek before the Twenty -third Massachusetts at the road, losing their heroic Major Chambers, went to pieces, under the persistent pressure of Gracie and Kemper, while at the same time the slackening fire of the Ninth New Jersey, their ammunition being exhausted, gave fresh hope to Grade's men, who cried out ' The Yankees have surrendered ! ' But Gracie had been too severely handled to overcome even the feeble opposition, and Terry's men, going over them, opened the gap wider be- tween the Ninth New Jersey and the Twenty-seventh Massachusetts, and went down the road nearly to Gregoiy's, then filing westward into the woods, dressed their line, and advanced upon the rear of the Twenty-seventh Massachusetts, who, all unconscious of the break in our line, were still holding the Forty-third Alabama and some of Barton's men at arm's length. " A few scattering men of the Twenty-third Massachusetts were gathered up in this grip, but the Virginians saw through the fog a much larger body of men on their left, from whom, as they faced about, came the hail, ' What regiment is that .' ' ' Fii-st Virginia ! ' ' Rebels ! Fire ! ' and eight Virginians, with their faces almost scorched with the flame of a gallant but unavailing defence, pitch forward, dead, while their comrades, with the bayonet, rush in upon the aston- ished Twenty-seventh Massachusetts, and nearly three hundrea gopd and true men threw up their hands in amazement and despair at this unexpected turn of affairs. " The Seventh Vii'ginia, pushing still further westward, first encounters a lone borseman in blue, who cries out to them, * Come on, boys, we are beating them back ! ' to which a long-haired Sergeant responds, ' Look 'yer, stranger, them 326 THE -WASHINGTON ARTILLERY. clothes don't go well in this crowd ! You come along with me.' Gen. Heck- man, commanding the brigade, refuses to surrender to the Sergeant, who attends him until Col. Floweree comes up, when the General turns over his sword. The Seventh Virginia continues on until well in the rear of the Twenty-fifth Massachusetts, but while attempting a repetition of the success of their com- rades are charged by the Twenty-fifth MaWaehusetts, whose onset they stop by a well-directed fire, but they cannot overcome it sufficiently to prevent that regiment from slipping through their fingers westward into the thick fog and thicker woods. " The next regiment, the Ninety-eighth New York, changes front, and, sup- ported by the Eighth Maine and Twenty-first Connecticut, checks the further immediate advance of Ransom's column in this direction. While one of Ran- som's brigades, pushing down the old stage road for the Proctor's Creek Cross- ing, which they were to seize and hold, runs into two detached regiments, the Ninth Maine and One Hundred and Twelfth New York, when the tide is turned, though the eventual abandonment of our line follows later in the morning. Heckman's brigade lost 42 killed, 188 wounded, 458 prisoners." Of the movements of Belger's battery, the same writer adds : — " Relger, with his Napoleons, was cavorting about all the P. M. of the loth in Gregory's orchard and the near woods, but during the night om" ' weak right ' was still fm*ther weakened by his removal to the pike, where he was in- active the most of the morning, until he took the two guns down to ' help out Askby,' and eventually the "Washington Artillery." THE WASHINGTON ARTILLERY. 327 CHAPTER XIV. GRANT IN FRONT OF RICHMOND. Washington Artillery on the Chickahominy. — Assault at Cold Harbor. — Grant Marches to James River. — Petersburg. — -The Siege. — Forts Hell and Damnation. — Shelling the City. — Citizens in Bomb-proofs. — Capt. Dunn. — '•Bum vivimits, vivamus." — Gen. Alexander. — Fourth of July. — Col. Walton's Resignation. — Explosion of the Mine. — Negro Troops. — Gibbs's Battalion of Artillery. — Flag of Truce. ON June 2, 1864, the Battalion was ordered to Rich- mond by the Secretary of War to report to Gen. Ransom. We marched at 7 P.M. with the Second, Third, and Fourth companies, leaving the First company under Lieut. Brown at the Hewlett battery. Bivouacked at Drewry's BIufF. At 6 A.M. on the 3d we again took the road and ait 10 A.M. reported to Gen. Ramson, whose head-quarters were on the Chickahominy, near Richmond, and by his orders went into position at Bottom's Bridge. Grant is confronting Lee at Cold Harbor. We are to protect the lower fords, supported by Fitz Lee's Cavalry. To-day Grant assaulted Lee's lines and was repulsed with very heavy loss. Our loss but slight. The First company joined us to-day, having being relieved from duty at Hewlett's . June 4. — This is the third anniversary of our arrival in Virginia. " Tempus fugit" sure enough. 328 TEE WA8BIN0T0N ARTILLERY. June 6. — I rode over to Gen. R. H. Anderson's head- quarters to-day. He commands the corps of Longstreet, who is absent on account of wound received at the Wilder- ness. Crossed the Chicahominy at McClellan's Bridge, and hunted up CuUen at Dr. Garnett's, dined with him and had a good time. The loss of the enemy in the last assault said to be 14,000 ; ours, 400. Dr. Garnett pointed out the ruins of his outhouse and denounced the parties whoever they were who set fire to it and burned it. He was so mad about it I took good care not to tell him my brother did it. The fate of war. Doctor. The Thirteenth Virginia Battalion of Artillery — the one I was in temporary command of when in East Tennessee with Longstreet — is now in the trenches at Cold Harbor, having come here with Gen. Breckenridge. Lieut.-Col. Kinsr is in command. o June 8 to 11. — Gen. Ransom kicks up a great row with Eshleman and d — s the battalion generally because we let our horses loose in a field to graze. He is afilicted with an awfully bad temper. June 12. — Rode along the lines to-day and visited Col. Walter Taylor at Gen. Lee's head-quarters. Dined with Cullen. June 13 . — Grant is off on another flank movement. This time he has moved towards James river, for he has found the gates of Richmond closed against him on this side. This he might have known before losing so many thousands of his men. He crossed at Long Bridge, forcing Gen. Roo- TBM WASHINGTON ARTILLERY. 329 ney Lee's Cavalry back to White Oak Swamp, where he holds the bridge. Heth's division confronts him there. Wilcox's and Anderson's divisions move to Eiddell's store and toward Malvern Hill. Gen. Custis Lee is placed in command of the "Department of Henrico." Grant is now reported crossing the James river at Harrison's Landing. An attack on Petersburg is apprehended. Heth's division, Ransom's brigade, and Eeid's battery ordered to Peters- burg. We have applied directly to President Davis to let us go also. June 16. — Heavy firing is heard this A.M. in the direc- tion of Petersburg. It is reported that the outer works have been taken by the enemy. Longstreet's corps ordered over. Nine Federal prisoners came into camp to-day. They were captured by two Confederates, — all foreigners, — German, French, and Irish. They have had enough fight- ing, and say they were all drunk when they were " shang- haied," as they term enlisted. We appear to be fighting all the nations of the earth. June 18. — President Davis has granted our request, and we are ordered over to Petersburg. We marched at once, and upon reaching that city are put in position in the earthworks, and the divisions of Wilcox and Mahone support us. Here we were destined to remain nearly one year, through the heat and dust of summer, and the mud, snow, and ice of winter, almost daily under fire, losing many of our men. Here Lee's army receives the brunt of Grant's immense forces, and gives up the lines only when our force is 60 reduced by death, wounds, and sickness that our men 330 THE WASHINGTON ARTILLERY. stand three yards apart in the trenches extending from Richmond to Hatcher's Run, a distance of thirty miles. On June 21 three brigades of the enemy march out towards the Weldon Railroad. The cavalry, under our old comrade Dearing, who is now a Brigadier, falls back before them and Wilcox's division , with six guns of Pegram's and six of the Washington ArtUlery, are sent after them. The Second company is ordered into a detached work near the Jerusalem Plank Road. This redoubt was after- wards called " Fort Mahone," and by the Federals "Fort Damnation." The Second company was distinguished in this work for checking the Federals in constructing their works op- posite, causing them to draw their lines at a more respectful distance. They built a heavy work, however, at this point, and caUed it "Fort Sedgwick," or "Fort Hell;" and "HeU" and " Damnation " were about the hottest places on the lines of Petersburg. Corporal Myers, of the Second company, was a capital shot, and on one occasion he called attention to the fact that .at a certain hour every day a number of officers gathered in " Fort Sedgwick," at a spot where he could see a white tent. He proposed to disturb them, so cutting a shell to burst properly, he carefully sighted his gun, and called all hands to look. The lanyard was pulled, and away went the shell, and so accurate was his aim that the projectile exploded exactly in front of the tent, and it and its occupants gathered no more at that spot. Myers be- came very annoying to the enemy, and on a bright Sunday THE WASHINGTON ARTILLERY. 331 morning they had their revenge, as one of their shells ex- ploded near him when sighting his gun, and laid him low. On June 2 2d Mahone attacked the Second corps of the enemy on the Jerusalem Plank Road, taking ten stands of colors, four pieces of artillery, and 2,000 prisoners. Our loss was 350. Urquart, of Second company, was wounded to-day while carrying ammunition. June 24. — At 7 A.M. some of our guns on the opposite bank of the Appomattox river opened upon the enemy's works. At 8 A.M. Hagood's brigade and Hoke's division ad- vanced upon the enemy's lines, but, not being supported as they should have been, fall back, after driving the enemy from his rifle-pits. Our loss, 300 to 400. On June 25 at 2 P.M. the enemy threw a few shells into the city ; at 10 P.M. they began shelling again, and continued at intervals all night. Several women are re- ported killed and a number of buildings struck and more or less damaged. June 26. — Enemy shelling the city all day. Our head- quarters are moved to Banks's house in rear of our guns in the works. It is sad, but sometimes amusing, — if such things can afford any amusement, — to see the terror evinced by the citizens when a big shell comes hurtling through the air. At the first explosion of a projectile shops are suddenly closed, shutters put up, and the city looks deserted ; mounted men gallop through the streets, and footmen seek strong walls or indulge in a walk towards the suburbs for fresh air. 332 THE WASfflXGTOX ASTILLERT. As the siege progressed almost everv family had its "bomb-proof in their gardens, fitted up with bedding, and a fireplace dug out of the clay wall. A " bomb- proof ■" was a cellar dug about ten feet deep and as many- feet square. Over it logs of wood were placed, and on the top of them a lot of earth was thrown ; steps were cut on the side away firom the direction of the enemy's guns. Into these holes in the ground the families woidd retire when the bombardment began, and star vmder cover while it continued. The earth roof would keep any shell or fraemient from entering. Some people had bales of cotton piled upon their porches two tiers high. Behind these, families would live in &ncied security. The enemy's fire knocked the gas-works to pieces and set fire to a number of houses ; and while the city fire department was endeavoring to extinguish the flames they would be selected as targets by the enemy and fired upon. Xevertheless they worked away courageously, and saved the city on more than one occasion from disastrous con- flagration. Our soldiers were treated with the greatest hospitality by the citizens, and all the "latch-strings hung out." "We all remember Capt. Andrew Dunn, ilessrs. Hai-e, Kevan, Cameron, and others with sincere pleasure. Capt. Dunn seemed never to tire having the officers of the army at his residence. He had served upon the staff of Gen. Long- street, and had been wounded. Xow that we were near his home his house was always open, and I fear his good wife THE WASSINaTON ARTILLERY. 833 was often sorely tried when a number of us were nolens volens taken to dinner by the captain. Dunn was one of the few gentlemen who had retained some of his old wines, and it reminded one of the old colonial times to see his venerable father, who always occupied the head of the table, raise his straw-stem glass of Madeira and say, — after the fashion of the " old Virginia gentleman," — " The pleasure of a glass of wine with you ! " " Sir, your health," you would reply, and toss off your wine with an air of .such innocence that no one would believe that you had ever drunk anything else, — in fact, had never dallied with the beverage called " apple-jack " in all your life. But now we were coming to a state of siege, and our pleasures were being narrowed down slowly but surely. We could only say dum vivimus, vivamus, and get all the pleasure out of it we could. Our head-quarters consisted of a large tent, in which Col. Eshleman, Chaplain Hall, and "Frank the bugler" dwelt. The adjutant and I pitched a small shelter tent, about five feet long and three feet high, and under this we crept at night. In front of the large tent waved the beauti- ful silken colors presented to the Battalion in 1861 by the ladies of New Orleans, when Mr. Benjamin nfade the presentation speech, and prophesied war, and told every one to go home and prepare for it. How time passes ! Then it was unfurled in the presence of thousands of fair women ; now it floats on the ramparts of a beleaguered city. Within sight of our quarters are those of A. P. Hill, Wilcox, and Mahone. During the week ending July 3d some brisk sharp- 334 THE WASHINGTON ARTILLERY. shooting has been going on, and occasionally the city has been shelled. Gen. Alexander, the Chief of Artillery of Longstreet's corps, has been wounded, and has gone away on leave of absence. The General was one of the most industrious officers I ever met, and always doing and suggesting some- thing new. At Centreville, in 1861 , he established a system of signals between head-quarters and the outposts, using lighted torches at night. After the battle of Manassas, where we found our fuzes far from being satisfactory, he set to work and improved them. He showed us how to use our 12-pounder Howitzers as mortars. He detected and im- proved upon the enemy's signal code, and often detected their signals. Durino' the siea:e of Petersburof he invented all sorts of " contra j)tions," such as wooden mortars, sharp-shooters' boxes, which were so placed on the works that the men could get an oblique fire and not run the risk of a direct shot from the enemy's quickeyed marksmen. He also furnished the guns in position along the lines with bullet- proof oak shields, which were fastened to the axles at the trunnions, and were as wide as the spread of the wheels. They had a slit cut in them, cross-shaped, through which the gunners could safely aim. He introduced a system of awards for the men who could collect the largest amount of leaden bullets and frao-- ments of shell fired by the enemy, and would have the men chasing projectiles and fragments even before the former exploded. It was while collecting bullets himself, going about in TBE WASEIXGTON ARTILLERY. 335 sight of the enemy, with a haversack half filled with lead, that he was dangerously wounded. For a certain number of pounds of lead turned into the ordnance department the men were either paid in money or received short leaves of absence. Rumor has it that TTilson's raiders have been routed by Fitz Lee and Hampton. Shelling the city seems to be the chief amusement of the enemy just now. Xearly all of the women and children have gone away from the city. Gen. Lee evidently expects heavy work to-morrow, the "glorious Fourth of July." We are ready at every point. Gen. Early is said to be marching towards Washington. Visited our pickets to-day within forty yards of the enemy's lines. Xo firing in our front. Weather hot, and dust intolerable in the trenches. Our horses have had no com for a week. Much to our disappointment the »enemy does not attack on the Fourth. At daybreak we planted the Battahon colors on " Fort Damnation " as a defiance, and to show that we could also celebrate the day our forefathers made famous, " rebels " though they were. The enemy was not slow in answering our challenge, and in a few moments every regimental flag opposite us was thrown to the breeze with cheers, which we answered with a vim. A few shots were exchanged but no damacre done. Some shells were thrown into the city. Eeport says that ilr. Chase, the Federal Secretary of the Treasury, has resigned. Some say this is good for us. How we are beginning to catch at straws ! July 8, 4.30 P.M. — The enemy has remained so quiet 336 THE WASHINGTON ARTILLERY. for a few days passed that Gen. Lee ordered the batteries to open to feel the enemy. We accordingly feel for him, and he announces that he is felt by replying -s'igorously, which burns two houses in the city. It is reported that fifteen transports loaded with troops have gone down James river, probably to look after Early. On July 9 Early took possession of Martinsburg, captur- ing 900 Federals. We are praying for rain. In the trenches it is terribly hot and dusty. To provide the troops with water, wells have been dug along the lines and good drinking-water obtained. It is raised by supporting long beams on posts so they will swing up and down. To the upper ends are fastened grape-vines or long slender poles ; to these are attached buckets or canteens, and pulled down until water is reached. It is a droll sight to watch these long poles bobbing up and down like huge cranes stooping to drink. It is a great blessing to have water so convenient. At 3.45 P.M. while at head-quarters at dinner a battery of the enemy opened iinexpectedly on our front. We were not looking for anything of the kind just there. After firing a few rounds, to which our guns replied, it was with- drawn. Its fire was fata], however, to one of our best young fellows, as a shell exploding mortally wounded Morgan Harris of First company, my cousin. Word was sent to me, and I immediately went to him in the trenches. He had been struck in the arm and leg by fragments of the shell breaking both. Poor boy ! he had crossed the lines from Maryland to join the army. He was an only child, and I tried to dissuade him from joining ; but he THE WASHINGTON ARTILLERY. 337 insisted. Captured on Marye's Hill with his gun detachment, he was afterwards excha,nged, and rejoined his battery, and now he had been stricken down by a shot from a battery that had come out to fire at Mahone's head-quar- ters, from information gained from a deserter. He died bravely, poor fellow, saying, " This is rough on me. If I had been killed in battle I wouldn't have cared, but to be shot in a skirmish it's too bad." Just before he was relieved by death he murmured, " My name is Morgan Harris. If any one wants to find me, go to battery No. 38 on the lines. I am with my gun." We spread the silken colors over his rude coffin, and buried him in a church-yard in the city, the enemy's shells passing over our heads, making a noisy requiem for the young soldier. Ah, well I we all may be called upon to take the same long journey ; let us do our duty and be prepared, as poor Morgan was, when our time shall come. July 10. — News of the loss of the steamer "Alabama" was received to-day. It is said Semmes made a good fight, and h6 and his crew were saved by an English gentleman, who witnessed the engagement from his yacht. Early's movements are creating quite a stir in the North- ern States. President Lincoln has called for more troops. Mooney, of Fourth company, died yesterday, in the trenches, of a regular case of cholera. July 15. — Early reported within three miles of "Wash- ington. He encountered the Sixth Federal corps at Monocacy Bridge. Great excitement all through the North. Grant again shelling Petersburg. 338 THE WASHINGTON ARTILLERY. July 19. — Rain has come at last. How grateful it is ! It has laid the dust, and the troops welcome it heartily. Early has retired from Maryland, crossing the Potomac at Poolesville. Gen. Joe Johnston has been relieved from the command of the Army of Tennessee, and Gen. Hood placed in command. It is currently reported that Gen. Grant was killed yesterday by a shell. Is not this another " straw ? " July 20. — Visited Cullen, Barksdale, and Col. Huger (acting Chief of Artillery in Alexander's absence), and dined with Latrobe. Gen. Longstreet is still absent. The resignation of our gallant old chief. Col. Walton, has been accepted. We shall never cease to regret the circum- stances that have induced this action. All our hearts are so attached to him that no one, no matter how capable he may prove himself, can command the Washington Artillery as he has done, in peace as well as in war.^ 1 Richmond, July 18, 1864. To the OJtcers and Members of the Washington Artillery of New Orleans : — Fellow-Soldiees, — In addressing you a brief statement of the facts con- nected with my resij^nation from the army, I trust I shall not incur the imputa- tion of undue sensitiveness or of unseemly vanity. I am convinced that the comrades with whom I came into the field at the beginning of the war, with whom it has always been my greatest pride to be identified, and to share whose hardships and perils and glories was my chief ambition, will appreciate my conduct and sympathize with my motives. You, my fellow- soldiers, will, I am sure, believe me when I say that only the sternest and most inexorable necessity could have forced me to sever my fortunes from yours, and to quit the military service of a country to which I had dedicated all that the citizen and the patriot can bestow. I therefore ad- dress you, in order that by constituting you the judges of the circumstances, I may retain your good opinion, and that by briefly recapitulating the events of my military career, I may vindicate the position I have been forced reluctantly to assume. On coming into the field as Major commanding the Battalion Washington Artilleiy, I was, I believe, the senior officer of the artillery branch of the ser- THE WASHINGTON ARTILLERY. 339 July 22. — During the bombardment this morning a shell struck Captain Dunn's house, in the city, and ex- ploded. The Captain was in his dressing-room, shaving. A fragment entered the room, scattering the plastering about and wounding him. His family, wife and children, were in an adjoining room, and were badly frightened, but not hurt. They iinmediately resolved to seek safer quarters, and vice. Cei*tamly my command was larger thaa any other similar organization in the army. After the battle of Manassas (1861), in accordance with the application and recommendation of Gen. Beauregai-d, and under an Act of Congress passed ex- pressly, as was shown by the communication of Mr. Benjamin — then Secretaiy of War — to Congress, to cover cases similar to mine, and of which mine was selected as the best illustration, I was promoted to the rank of Colonel of Artil- leiy. Immediately thereafter I was assigned to duty as Chief of Artillery of the ai-my of the Potomac remaining however in command of the Washington Artillery. At the same time Colonel Pendleton (made Colonel by temporary' rank under the law authorizing the President to confer temporary rank upon officers of the regular anny) , although my junior at the time of entering the service, was promoted to the rank of Brigadier-General of Ai'tillery. Subsequently, on the reorganization of the anny, I was announced as Chief of Artillery of the First army coi-ps, commanded by Gen. Longstreet. In the meantime repeated and pressing applications for my promotion by my commanding Generals — I being, if not the senior Colonel of Artillei-y in the Confederate army, certainly the senior in the army in which I was serving, — were met with the statement that no more Brigadier-Generals of Artilleiy wei'e requii-ed, and that consequently no more would be appointed. This I learned was the uniform reply to every application in my favor. jSTevertheless, an officer seiving upon the staff of Gen. Lee, who, so far as I am infonned, had never commanded a gun in action during the Avar, and who did not belong to the artillery branch of the sei-vice at the time, was promoted to be a Brigadier-General in that arm, and was assigned to duty as Chief of Artil- lery of the Second corps. I submitted to this apparent unjust discrimination in consequence of my desire to remain in the service and my willingness to sacrifice personal advancement to the demands of patriotism. I therefore continued still with the rank of Colonel in the performance of my duties as Chief of Artil- leiy of Longstreet's First coi-ps. ' It was then suggested that I could obtain a brigade of infantiy, the second Louisiana brigade being indicated ; but I was unable to see the reality of a promotion which removed me from the command of more than eighty guns and near 3,000 men, to place me at the head of a brigade numbering about 1,000 men, and which required me to exchange an arm with which I was fi'om ex- 340 THE WASHINGTON ARTILLERY. selected the convent at Columbia, S.C., as a place of ref- uge, where they resided until it was burned by Sherman's army. July 30. — At 5 o'clock A.M. was awakened, incur shelter-tent, by Adjutant Kursheedt sliaking me vigorously, and saying, " AYake up ! wake up ! Don't you hear the explosion ? " — " Explosion be hanged ! What's the mat- ter ? " — " "Why," he said, " the devil's to pay ; the Yanks perience familiar for one with which I had not, for seventeen years, been connected. To accede to this suggestion would have been equally unjust to myself, to the service, and to ' those gallant infantry officers who had so well earned promotion. I declined the unreal promotion, prefemng to remain a Colonel of Ai-tillery, commanding more than eighty guns and a division of men, to becoming the Brigadier of less than a regiment. It should be remarked that I was then, and had been for a long time, performing the duties of Brigadier- General of Artilleiy to the satisfaction of the Generals with whom I served. If competent to discharge those duties with the rank of Colonel, I was com- petent to discharge them with the increased grade ; and if my services warranted and deserved promotion in a branch with which I was not connected, they cer- tainly warranted and deserved promotion in the branch with which I was identi- fied, and in which I had served from the beginning of the war. At a later period, in spite of the statement that no more Brigadier-Generals of Artillery were needed or would be appointed, a distinguished oificer, formerly of the navy was promoted to that grade. Still later, after Gen. Longstreet's coips had been ordered to reinforce Gen. Bragg ■ in Georgia, an officer, formerly of the engineers in the old army, then commanding one of my battalions, was also promoted to be a Brigadier-General of Artillery, and upon being ordered to re- port to Gen. Longstreet, he was in October last assigned to duty as Chief of Artillery of my corps. Thus, without the slighest notification to me, I was thrust from the position I had so long occupied, and it was given to an officer, my junior in rank, ha being taken from my own command. On being informed of this event I immediately asked to be relieved frotn duty with the Army of Northern Virginia. My request was granted, and, at my own suggestion, I was assigned to duty as Inspector of Field Artillerj- at large. Returning from an arduous tour of inspection in the south-west, I learned that an effort had been made to cause to be declared vacant my position a« Colonel of Artillery. I was informed by Gen. Bragg that in order to guard against such a conclusion it was necessary to order me again to report to Gen. Lee for duty in the anny of Northern Virginia. You will not be surprised that I was unwilling to comply with an order in- volving the very sacrifices from which, for reasons satisfactory to the Adjutant and Inspector General, I had been relieved. I was content to remain in the ser- vice without promotion, and to see my juniors in rank one by one placed above THE WASHINGTON ARTILLERY. 341 haye exploded a mine down on the left ; " and just then the batteries began to fire. We lost no time in ffettinn: to the trenches ; our guns were all ready, but no enemy appeared on our front. StaiF-officers were dashing about, and soon Mahone's men were withdrawn from the trenches near us, and marched off to the left. We could see nothing except a great cloud of smoke, that hung like a pall over the place me. I was willing to do any duty that might be imposed upon me equivalent to the command which for more than two yeai-s I had exercised, and I applied for an assignment embracing such duty. But I submit to you, my comi-ades, that it was too much to ask me to go back to a command identical with that with which I had come into the service, and in an army where I was ranked by and would have to report to officers who had been my juniors and serving under my command. I do not complain of the promotion of those officers ; I do not say it was undeserved ; on the contrary, I know them to be gallant and meritorious gentlemen ; but that they have received promotion while it has been denied to me may be accounted for by a determination, which, I am in- formed, the President has expressed, to confer the highest grade in the artU- leiy on such officers only who have had the advantages of a scientific militaiy education. I do not possess that advantage. I was not educated at a military institution. But I participated in the Mexican war, and for more than three years have served as an artillery officer, for two years of that time doing the duty and having the command without the rank belonging to the highest gi'ade in that ann. I may state without vanity, — because you, my comrades, have by your gal- lantry and conduct illusti-ated the same fields, — that my experience of war during that time embraces as principal engagements, the battles of Bull Run, Manassas, Bappahannock Station, second Manassas, Sharpsburg, Fredericksburg, second Fredericksburg, or Chancellorsville, Gettysburg, etc., etc. To show that Gen. Beauregard, who will be admitted to be no mean authority, considered me com- petent to perform the duties of the highest grade in the artillery, I may be excused for quoting his words contained in a communication to me : — " I regret to hear that you have not been promoted to the rank of Brigadier- General of Artillery, which, in the estimation of your friends, you have won by your efi^cient sei-vices on so many glorious battle-fields, commencing with Bull Kun. If my testimony to your efficiency, zeal, and capacity, whilst commanding the Battalion of Washington Artillery in the Anny of the Potomac and acting as Chief of Artillery of the First coi-ps of that army, can be of any service to you I willingly give it to you, not as a favor, but as a right to which you are entitled." And Gen. Longstreet likewise, in a note addressed to me, says ; — *' I have on three occasions and several times in conversation expressed my opinion and wishes in favor of having you promoted to the rank of Brigadier. 342 THE WASHINGTON ARTILLERY. where the mine had been sprung. We stopped one of the stafF-officers riding by, and inquired the particulars. It appears tlie explosion occurred on General Bushrod John- son's front, blowing up Pegram's battery of four guns, and the Eighteenth South Carolina regiment. An assaulting column then advanced, with negro troops in front, and occupied our lines ; thousands crowded into the crater formed by the explosion, and lost all organization. I still think your services give you the best claim to the promotion of any officer in the service, and I am quite satisfied you are as well qualified to fill the office. I still hope your promotion may soon come." It will be thus seen that Gen. Beauregard and Gen. Longstreet, the two Gen- erals with whom I had served, both recommended that promotion which appears to have been studiously and pointedly withheld from me. That by each 1 was selected to be Chief of Artillery justifies me in assuming that they did not par- ticipate in the opinion that only graduates of military institutions are capable of discharging the duties appertaining to the highest grade in the artillery service. Nor were they able to perceive that the increased grade would diminish the capacity while in no way extending the duties of the officer receiving it. Yet I am forced to the belief that the authorities differ in opinion with these distin- guished officer's, and concede nothing to the weight of their judgment. If their repeated and pressing applications for my promotion have had no result but in failure — if their unsought testimony to my capacity and efficiency have fallen short of the desired efi'ect, — I am sure that the simple record of my services will ever remain insufficient to procure for me the reward to which it is no less the duty and the right of the patriotic soldier to aspire. I can come to no other conclusion than that the authorities consider me unfit for the position I have so long occupied ; and it therefore devolves on me to relieve them from the pur- petnal annoyance of my seniority, and to guard my own self-respect from the continual assaults with which it is threatened. You, my fellow-soldiers, know full well, that no trifling cause would drive me from the military service of my country ; that no ordinary grievance would force me from the side of those with whom I have shared the perils of so many glorious fields. You know that it could have been no motive of mean ambition, no desire for personal advance- ment, that brought me to the field. At an age of nearly fifty years, and thus, according to ordinary precedent, exempt from military seiwice, I abandoned a lucrative employment and a large income, and left behind me a loved wife and seven children, to answer the first summons of war. Ifl had not belonged to the party which desii'ed disunion on its own account I was one of the first to embrace the cause of secession when the election of Lincoln was announced ; and the first attack on the authority of the United States in Louisiana, even before the State had seceded, was made by you and other troops composing an expedition under my command. THE WASHINGTON ARTILLERY. 343 Col. John Haskell opened upon the mass with his Co- horn mortars, dropping shells right in their midst, doing fearful execution. The Federals could not be induced to advance beyond this point ; a few negroes did, however, run across the fields, to our second line of earth-works, where they were taken in and disarmed, as did also some of their white officers. The poor devils were frightened almost to death, and many of them protested that " they I recall these facts in connection with those previously related not to exalt my own sei-vices, or to minister to a censurable egotism, but in order that I may vindicate my conduct before those whose opinion I value so highly, and whose esteem I prize beyond anything that wordly ambition can oifer. It is with re- luctance I have been forced from the service, with grief that I find myself separated from you, with whom, I had hoped, should Providence permit, to re- turn to the city of our home. Circumstances have denied me this privilege ; but harsh as may be their decree, they cannot rob me of the consolatory conviction that while with you I tried to desei-ve your affection and esteem, nor of the hope that while absent I may retain them. J. B. WALTON. Head-quarters Battalion Washington Aetillekt, Petersburg Defences, August 29, 1864. J. B. Walton, Late Colonel commanding Battalion Washington Artillery, Chief of Artillery, First Corps Army, Northern Virginia, etc., etc. : — Dear Sir: — Your communication addressed to the officers and members of the Washington Artillery of New Orleans has been received. Dated, as it is, on the thu'd anniversary of the first battle in which we had the merit of participat- ing as soldiers fighting for Southern independence, we are carried back through a long series of events which now form pai-t of the history of our country. We have a vivid remembrance of those events and of our connection with them during three years as a military organization under your command. The high estimation in which our coi-ps was held at home and what glory we have since attained abroad were due to your personal influences, energy, and organ- izing talent, while the more solid attainments of a soldier — his ti-aining and fitness for his post, his previous pi-eparation for the hour of trial — were none the less due to your talents as an officer. But your communication enlightens us upon matters of which, being more personal in their nature, we were not so fully informed, and in which, as your friends, fellow-soldiers, and citizens, we were deeply interested. While we learn with painful regret of your resignation and retirement from the military 344 THE WASHINGTON ARTILLERY. never fired a shot ; " " Look at my cartridge-box, massa, if you don't believe der poor nigger." The brigades of Mahone and Wright soon cleared the trenches, and reestablished our lines. As the Federals ran back to their own lines across the intervening space, our guns on the right and left of the crater shot them down by the score. They lost more men in getting back than they did in their advance. sei-vice of the Confederacy, our solicitude at the loss of your serrices as a soldier and as commandinfr officer, and our sorrow at the severance of the more inti- mate ties of friendship that existed between us, are in some measure mitigated, by the conviction that your course has been a full vindication of your integrity as a man and your honor as a soldier and a patriot. The incessant vi^^ilance demanded by our position in the face of a persevering enemy necessitates a painfully brief acknowledgment of your friendship and past services. We all unite in the hope that in some near day of peace we may more fully express to you the sincerity of our sorrow at patting, and the high esteem in which we have long held 3'ou. With a most kindlj' remembrance of the ties which have been knit so closely by our common danger, and privations in a common cause, and with heartfelt wishes for your future prosperity and success, we subscribe ourselves, with much respect. Your obedient sei-vants, B. F. EsHLEMAN, Lieutenant- Colonel coTwmanding. W. M. Owen, Major. E. I. KUKSHEEDT, Adjutant. E. S. Drew, Surgeon. Thomas Y. Aby, Assistant Surgeon. John Wood, Captain and Assistant Quartermaster. j3. L. Brazleman, Second Lieut, and Ordnance Officer. Eev. William A. Hall, Chaplain. William A. Randolph, Sergt.-Major, on behalf of N. C. Staff. C. H. C. Brown, Second Lieutenant coTnmanding First company, on behalf of First company. Lieut. Sam IIawes, Second company, on behalf of Second company. Andrew Hero, Jr., Captain of Third company, of behalf of Third company. Joe Norcom, Captain of Fourth company. Jno. H. Stone, on behalf of Fourth company. THE WASHINGTON ARTILLERY. 345 This attack of the enemy was intended as a coup-de- main, to have broken our lines, and to have marched straight into the city ; but it was an inglorious failure. We captured eight stands of colors and many prisoners,' black and white. This was the first time we had seen black troops ; we had fought representatives of every nation on the face of the globe, including Sandwich Isl- anders and Kannucks, but never negroes. We had some curiosity to see what they looked like, and went over to where they were "corralled." If they ever had any fight in them it was out of them now. They had been told we would hang them if we caught them, and they believed it. Their white officers had torn their shoulder-straps off", so we should not recognize them as officers ; but the fresh marks showed plainly upon their sun-burned jackets, and they could not deceive Major Bob W , of A. P. Hill's staff, who nearly scared the life out of them by standing them apart from the negroes, and impressing the fact upon them that they were to swing instanter. How they begged ! — and, without exception, said " they had been forced in ; they could not avoid commanding the blacks," and all that. They were sent to the Libby. Whitcomb and Mains, of First company, and O. J. Toledano, of Third company, were killed to-day. Kremmel- berg, of Third company, was killed on the 23d, while sleeping in his bunk. Gen. Elliott, of South Carolina, was mortally wounded to-day ; and Major Gibbs, also of South Carolina, was wounded while directing the guns of the Thirteenth Vir- 346 THE WASHINOTON ARTILLERY. ginia battalion artillery, lately commanded by Lieut. -Col. King, whom he succeeded solne weeks ago. July 31. — Am again assigned to command the Thirteenth Virginia battalion ; the following order having been received at our head-quarters : — ' HEAD-QnAKTEKS ARTILLERY A. N. Va., July 31, 1864. Special Oedees, No. 32 : — Major W. M. Owen, at present on duty with the Washington Artil- lery Battalion, is hereby relieved of command with that battalion. He will report for duty to Lieut. -Col. F. Huger, for assignment to the command of Gibbs's battalion artillery, First Corps Army Northern Virginia. By command of Gen. Pendleton, D. D. PENDLETON, A.A.O. Major W. M. Owen, (Through Col. E. L. Walker, Chief Third corps artillery). On August 1st the following was received : — Head-quarters Artillery First Corps, August 1, 1864. Speciai Orders, No. 24 : — Major W. M. Owen, having reported to these head-quarters for duty, by orders from Head-quarters Artillery Army Northern Virginia, is hereby assigned to the command of Major Gibbs's battalion artillery. By command of Lieut. -Col. Frank Huger, J. C. HASKELL, A.A.G. This morning Gen. Lee allowed Gen. Grant an armistice of three hours, to bury his dead, left in front of our works after the explosion of the mine. A loner trench was duo- equidistant between our works and the enemy's, and the negro prisoners were made to carry the dead bodies to the trench and throw them in. THE WASHINGTON ARTILLERY. 347 I went down to the flag of truce, and there met Gen. Potter, of New York; Col. McElroy, of Ohio; Gen. Ferraro, and Gen. White. These officers were very- courteous and chatty, and brought out buckets of lemonade and other refreshments in profusion. They were desirous of getting a glimpse of some of our generals, and had pointed out to them Gen. Bushrod Johnson, clad in a linen duster and a straw hat ; and A. P. Hill, in a gray flannel shirt, standing upon the edge of the " Crater." They were anxious to see Gen. Lee, but "Uncle Robert" didn't gratify them. At the expiration of the three hours a signal-gun was fired, and the armistice ended. We lifted our hats to the Federal officers, bowed, and each retired to their respective lines, ready to renew hostilities. This afternoon, in conformity to orders, I took formal command of Gibbs's battalion, consisting of three batter- ies, — Chamberlayne's (late Davidson's), Dickinson's, and WaUier's "Otey" battery, 12 guns, 450 men. These are the same batteries placed under my command when in East Tennessee with Longstreet. The position of these guns is on the Baxter road, imme- diately to the right of the " Crater." The enemy's lines are scarcely 200 yards off. Heth's division is our support. August 3. — Went to the lines at 5 A.M. to inspect the position of the guns of the Battalion. Captain Walker pointed out an embrasure that did not permit the guns to bear upon and rake a ravine in front, through which the enemy might approach our works without being discov- ered. 348 THE WASHINGTON ARTILLERY. Mounting tlie parapet to get a better look, and while standing there, a sharp-shooter of the enemy fired from his rifle-pit twice ; his second shot wounded me in the right cheek. He raised his head to see the effect of his aim, and, being indisposed to gratify him with knowledge of his accuracy, I stood for a moment, and then jumped down into the trench. My wound bled profusely ; but it was a mere flesh wound, and the men running up with canteens of water, I saturated my handkerchief and tied it around my face, and went back to my tent, which was pitched in Mr. Cameron's yard. My servant, "Jacob," was shocked at my " Banquo "-like appearance. He was instructed to mount my horse and ride at once to Col. Eshleman's quarters, and have my flask filled with a "seda- tive," and notify our surgeon. That worthy soon came, and being put in an ambulance and taken to the house of a friend in the city, Mr. McCullough, I took a delicious warm bath, and was put to bed in a neat, cosey, cool room, and was soon enjoying a refreshing sleep, of which I was so much in need. At 2 P.M. was served with a " Mint Julep " and a broiled chicken. Very nice to be wounded, I find ! Some young girls sent me beautiful flowers and baskets of fruit — God bless 'em ! Think I will remain here until I am all right again. Will retain command of the Bat- talion, and have the oflScer of the day report to me daily. August 4. — "Wound not painful, but still in bed at Mc- Cullough's. Miss Lizzie G sent me fruit and flowers, beautifully arranged in a pretty basket. How charming she is I TBE WASEINGTOX ARTILLERY. 349 Col. Frank Huger and Jo. Haskell, A.A.G., called to see me. They believe the Yanks are mining under my guns. Heavy firing along the lines all night. August 5. — Gen. Gracie sprung a mine in his front at 6 P.M. My brother. Captain Xed, came over from Ricb- mond to see me ; he still suffers fi"om the wound in the head he got at Drewrv's Bluff. He had seen a telegram in the newspaper about me, and came prepared to find me much worse off than I am, thank goodness ! There was some firing on my batteries to-night, and we had two men killed and one wounded. August 7. — Though still very weak, took a short walk to-day, and called apon Miss Lizzie to thank her for her kindness in sending me so many nice things. While there my wound broke forth afresh, and she bravely dressed it for me. August 2-t. — The past fortnight has been without any event of importance. The enemy still shells the city at in- tervals. I have reported for duty again in the trenches, and am all right once more. We have established a battery of five Cohom mortars, and put it under command of Lieut. Langhome of the " Otey " Battery, — an excellent young officer, — and have laid out and completed a covered way, so we can go into our works with very little risk of being peppered by sharp-shooters. While at McCullough's convalescing I had a very nar- row escape. It was my habit each morning to sit in an easy-chair in the dining-room, and there receive reports and read the news. One bright morning, feeling strong 350 THE WASHING Toy ARTILLERY. enough, I tliought, to visit the lines, I had my horse saddled and rode out to them. While there the enemy threw a few shells into tlie city ; this was an every-day occurrence, and attracted no especial attention. When I returned to the city, and came in sight of my quarters, I was surprised to see " Jacob " shovelling bricks and mortar out of the win- dow of the dining-room, and when I had ridden closer I discovered a hole in the side wall large enouo-h to crawl through. During the shelling we had witnessed, a shell had struck the house, entered the dining-room, and there exploded. The room was wrecked and the easy-chair shattered. Had I been there in my accustomed place I should have joined the poor fellow we saw enjoying the rocking-chair at " Second Manassas." It was a beautiful sight at night to watch the shells from the 15-inch mortars, with their lighted fuses, crossino- each other in their flight through the air, and I have stood for hours at the window tracing them. One night during the cannonading one battery got the exact range of our street, and made it pretty lively. A church close by was struck, and while standing in our door-way, the ne^ro nurse at my side, a shell burst so close as to blind us, and there was a terrible crash of window-glass. The nurse turned back-summersaults into the basement kitchen in her retreat. I procured a candle, and went into the parlor to insi:)ect the damage. Half a window- sash was knocked out, and the floor strewn with window- glass. I picked up a large fragment of a shell and placed THE WASHINGTON ARTILLERY. 351 it on the mantel, as a " curio " for the family when they returned. General A. P. Hill has attacked the enemy at Reims' Station, and captured 2,500 prisoners and 9 guns from the Second Federal corps. The enemy has seized the Weldon Railroad and hold it. This interferes, very mate- rially, with our procuring food for men and animals from the south. We are kept busy in the trenches, changing positions of guns, building and repairing bomb-proofs, arranging aSafo's, etc. September 1. — Obtained leave of absence for a day, and ran over to Richmond and dined with President Davis and family. On the 12th of October one-half of our artillery-drivers are armed with muskets, and placed on duty in " Battery Gregg," under command of Lieut. McElroy of the Wash- ington Artillery. All supernumeraries are being armed, and will assist in defending the lines. Every man counts now ; no one can be spared. Our strength is being lessened daily, and there is no material to draw from. We are the " last of the Mohicans," as it were. ^ • Organization of the Artillery, Army Northern Virginia, August 31, 1864. Brigadier-Gen. W. N. Pendleton, commanding. First Corps Artillery. — Brigadier-Gen. E. P. Alexander. Gol.JT. G. OabeU's Battalion. — Manly's hattery, Capt. B. C. Manly; First Company Richmond howitzers, Capt. Anderson ; Carlton's battery, Capt. I-I. H. Cai-lton ; Calloway's battery, First Lieut. M. Callaway. Major John EaskdV s Battalion. — Branch's battery, Capt. H. G. Planner; Nelson's batteiy, Lieut. "W. B. Stanfield; Garden's battery, Capt. H.E. Garden; Eowan battery, Lieut. E. Myers. 352 THE WASHINGTON ARTILLERY. October 27. — Fighting on our right, heavy firing all day. At dark a regiment of Federals entered our lines at the position occupied by the Otey battery, near the "Crater." They were soon driven out. They were sup- posed to be our relief picket-guards, and came into our lines unmolested. Our lines are now very weak ; a force, not a large one either, could break through at almost any time. We shelled the enemy from our whole front last night with our Cohorn mortars, firing 130 shells. November 1. — The attack on the 27th instant was evidently intended to gain the Southside Railroad and the Appomattox river. Northern newspaper correspondents say the troops carried six days' rations and plenty of ammunition. A. P. Hill Major F. Utiger's Battalion. — Smith's battery, Capt. John D. Smith ; Moody s battery, Lieut. G. Poindexter ; Woolfolk's battery, Lieut. James Woolfolli; Parker's battery, Capt. W. W. Parker ; Taylor's battery, Capt. O. B. Taylor ; Ficklin's battery, Capt. W. W. Ficldin; Martin's batteiy, Capt. Martin. Thirteenth Virginia Battalion Artillery. — ^ Major W. M. Owen. Davidson's battery, Lieut. J. H. Chamberlayne ; Dickinson's battery, Capt. C. Dickinson ; Otey battery, Capt. D. N. Walker. Baiialion Washington Artillery. — Lieut.-Col. B. F. Eshleman. First com- pany, Capt. Edward Owen ; Second company, Capt. J. B. Eichardson ; Third company, Capt. Andrew Hero, Jr. ; Fourth company, Capt. Jo. Norcom. Second Corps Artillery, Brigadier-Gen. A. L. Long. Major C. M. Braxton's Battalion. — Lee battcrj', Lieut. W. W. Hardmcke ; First Maiyland artillery, Capt. W. F. Dement ; StaSford artilleiy, Capt. W. T. Cooper ; Alleghany artillery, Capt. J. C. Cai-penter. Lieut.-Col. Thomas H. Carter's Battalion. — Morris artillery, Capt. S. H. Pen- dleton ; Orange artillery, Capt. C. W. Fry ; King WiUiiim artillery, Capt. W. P. Carter ; Jeff. Davis artillery, Capt. "VV. J. Reese. Major W. B. Cuttshaw's Battalion. — Charlottesville artilleiy, Capt. J. McD. CaiTington ; Staunton artillery, Capt. A. W. Garber ; Courtney artillery, Capt. W. A. Tanner. Lieut.-Col. William Nelson's Battalion. — Amherst artillery, Capt. J. T. Kirk- pah-ick; Milledge artillery, Capt. John Milledge; Fluvanna artilleiy, Capt. J. L. Massie. THE WASHINGTON ARTILLERY. 353 beat them back. So they call it a " reconnoissance." They left behind them their dead and wounded, so must have been in a hurry. On the 6th of November, after six months' service in the trenches, exposed day and night to the enemy's fire, my battalion was relieved by that of Lieut. -Col. Mose- ley's. The enemy, hearing the noise occasioned by getting the guns away from their positions, where they were crowded in by bomb-proofs, traverses, etc., opened a brisk fire ; but, it being quite dark, we had no casualties except one horse killed. We were ordered to the extreme right flank of the army, and will hereafter act as " flying artillery," attached to A. P. Hill's "Light Bobs." We rejoice in breathing once more the pure air of the woods and fields, and having the Col. J. Thompson Brown's Battalion. — Powhatan artillery, Capt. TV. J. Dance ; Second company Richmond Howitzers, Capt. L. F. Jones ; Third com- pany Richmond Howitzers, Capt. B. H. Smith, Jr. ; Rockbridge artillery, Capt. A. Graham ; Salem Flying artillery, Capt. C. B. Griffin. Third Corps Artillery. — Col. R. L. Walker ; Lieut.-Col. A. S. Cutts's battalion : Ross's battery, Capt. H. W. Ross ; Patterson's battery, Capt. G. M. Patterson ; IiTVin artillery, Capt. T. J. Wingfield. Lieut.-Col. D. G. Mcintosh's Battalion. — Johnson's battery, Capt. V. J. Clutter; Ilardaway artillery, Capt. J. F. Hurt; Danville artillery, Capt. R. S. Rice ; Second Rockbridge artillery, Capt. Donald. Lieut.-Col. C. Richardson's Battalion. — Lewis artillery, Capt. N. Penick ; DonaldsonTille cannoneers, Capt. V. Maurin ; Norfolk light artillery, Capt. C. R. Grandy ; Hugcr artillery, Capt. J. D. Moore. Lieut.-Col. W. J. Pegram's Battalion. — Pee Dee artillejy, Capt. E. B- Branson ; Fredericksburg artillery, Capt. E. A. Maiye ; Letcher artillery, Capt. T. A. Brander; Purcell battery, Capt. Geo. M. Cayce ; Crenshaw battery, Capt. T. Ellet. Lieut.-Col. W. T. Poague's Battalion. — Madison artillery, Capt. T. J. Richards; Albemarle artillei-y, Capt. J. W. Wyatt; Brooke artillery, Capt. "VV. W. Utterback ; Charlotte artillery, Capt. Williams. 15 Battalions, 61 Batteries. — First corps, 5 battalions, 22 batteries ; Second corps, 5 battalions, 19 batteries ; Third corps, 5 battalions, 20 batteries. 354 THE WASHINGTON ARTILLERY. pleasure of stretching our limbs without the risk of receiving a rifleman's bullet. The young girls of Petersburg are as charming as are those in Richmond. There are not many of them, for the "Feds" have frightened them away. "While we were in the trenches, and matters comparatively quiet, we would often slip into town and get the girls together and have a dance. On several occasions, while we were thus enjoying our- selves, a furious firing would break out on the lines, and those officers who belonged to the batteries engaged would have to scamper, but not without securing a partner for a dance after their return. An hour or so would pass, the firing cease, and we would again return to "trip the light fantastic," and say, "You have kept the dance for me, Miss ? Only a small affair, after all : one man killed, that's all."— "Oh ! is-that all?" she would reply. "Come, they are forming the set." Riding on horseback was a great sensation for the young girls, and officers' horses were in great demand. On quiet days we would occasion- ally take them out, so they could see the lines of both armies ; but sometimes the " Feds " would be so ungallant as to fire upon the groups, although their officers must have seen through their glasses that women were there. "We are encamped in a pine thicket, near Ritchie's house, on the Boydton plank road, and are building stables for our horses, and the men are constructing loo- huts for themselves and making everything as comfortable as possi- ble. We are ordered to turn in to the Ordnance Department two caissons from each battery, for lack of horses. A dis- ease (farcy) has taken hold of our horses, and they die by THE WASBINOTON ARTILLERY. 355 twos and threes every night. I had my tent pitched, and a big chimney built to it ; a wooden door was improvised, and a pane of glass set in it. I could see my whole camp without leaving the tent. I was well off in the way of blankets, but in the mornings would have my mustache covered with ice, as was the case with my water-bucket. I thought it healthier to sleep under canvas than in a stuffy, close hut. My possessions were simple enough : my furni- ture consisted of a camp-table, a wooden inkstand from Harper's Ferry, one old camp-stool. A small valise con- tained a change of under-clothing, and a leather haversack, that was always carried on my saddle, held all my toilet apparatus, — looking-glass, comb, brushes, soap, and towel. My blankets were the red artillery blankets of the "Feds," and my large India-rubber cloth, which was rolled about them, when travelling, was a souvenir of "Chickamauga." My pistol and sabre hung on a peg on the rear tent-poJe. The sabre was presented to me by a Federal officer capt- ured at Drewry's Bluff. In the rear of my habitation was a shelter tent, where "Jacob Faithful" attended to the culinary affairs, when we had anything to eat ; and that was becoming a very serious question, which concerned the whole of Lee's army. Gen. Longstreet has returned and reported for duty, and Capt. Dunn celebrated the event by giving a dinner- party, at which there was a goodly gathering of officers of the First corps. The General still suffers from his wound, his right arm being paralyzed. Among the gayest officers present was the whole-souled, genial Gen. Gracie. It was an event of unspeakable regret when, on the morning of 356 THE WASHINGTON ARTILLERY. the 2d of December, Gracie was instantly Tiillecl upon the lines, by a spherical case shot from the enemy's works. He was one of the best officers I ever saw, and was worshipped by his men. So our numbers are being thinned, slowly but surely. The only question now is, who will see the end? A few days before Gracie's death Gen. Lee went to the trenches, as was his habit, to inspect them in person. He always went alone. When he came to Gracie's line he stepped upon the " banquette " of the work, and taking out his field-glasses began quietly to examine the position of the enemy. He was in danger, and Gen. Gracie placed himself in front of him and obstructed his view, pretending to be pointing out objects to Gen. Lee. Lee said, ''Gen- eral, you should not expose yourself so much." Gracie replied, "If /should not. Gen. Lee, why should you, the Cemmander-in-chief ? " The General smiled, and under- stood then that Gracie had so placed himself to cover him with his own body in case the enemy had fired. Lee stepped down from the " banquette " and continued his walk down the line. Col. Walter Taylor, Lee's Adjutant-General, was wont to say, in answering at head-quarters questions as to Gen. Lee's whereabouts, "I can't tell you where the General is ; he rode off alone awhile ago. Yesterday he was running the risk of being killed in the trenches ; to-day he may be down at Hatcher's Run, running the risk of capture by the Yankee cavalry." There can be no doubt Gen. Lee was very anxious at this time about the state of affairs in the army and at Richmond. We did not think he was in favor THE WASBINGTON ARTILLERY. 357 of holding on to Richmond for so long a time. Head- quarters of the government might as well have been in a baggage- wagon with the army as in Richmond. The hold- ing of that city to the last would be but a matter of senti- ment; it held nothing now that could do the army any good. 358 THE WASHINGTON ARTILLERY, CHAPTER XV. IN THE TRENCHES AT PETERSBURG. Enemy on a Raid. — On the March. — Ice and Snow. — Christmas Din- ner. — ■ Virginia Hospitality. — Gen. Pegram Killed. — Gen. J. B. Gordon. — Louisiana Brigade. — Winter-quarters. — Hatcher's Run. — Short Rations. — Easting and Prayer. — Sherman in Charleston. — Promotion. — Pickett at Eive Forks. — Lines Broken. — Defence of Battery Gregg. — Petersburg Evacuated. — Gen. A. P. Hill Killed. ON the 7th of December, 1864, the enemy started out again on a raid to our right. Our " light battal- ion " followed, with Gen. A. P. Hill's corps. We marched to Dinwiddie Court-House and towards Stony Creek. Camped at 3 P.M. On the 9th of December we crossed the Nottoway river, and camped seven miles from BeUfield. Enemy reported destroying the Weldon Railroad. We hear some firing, and presume the county reserves have engaged them. Although our march was fatiguing, every- thing came into camp promptly. During the night it rained, and then froze. The guns, horses, harness, and the men's blankets were covered with ice and frozen hard. We had large fires built to thaw out. Ice formed an inch thick. We slept under our blankets ; no tents of any de- scription. This was tolerably severe on men and animals. On the 10th of December we marched, at 6.30 A.M., towards the Weldon Railroad. Enemy's infantry falling back towards Petersburg. At mid-day we came in sio-ht of a squadron of Federal cavalry and opened a gun on them. THE WASHINOTOir ARTILLERY. 359. Line of battle formed by our infantry. Gens, Finnegan and Sorrel wounded. Chamberlayne's battery fired sixteen rounds. Enemy retreated rapidly. Troops march in pur- suit by the Lebanon road. We are ordered to encamp near the ruins of the Watkins House, destroyed by fire by the Federals to-day. It is distressing to see the ruin and desolation these columns inflict upon inoffensive citizens on their line of march. We cannot believe Americans can do these things, but that it is the work of the refuse of Europe , — the Hessians , that fill the ranks of the enemy . A Federal soldier was taken prisoner this afternoon, and some of our men wanted to throw him into the fire kindled by his own comrades ; but better counsels prevailed, and he was marched off to Petersburg. We cooked our supper in the burning embers of the house, and while smoking our pipes a boy, probably fifteen years of age, came to the fire, and, leaning against a tree, looked around for a few moments, and then burst into tears. We observed him for a little while, then called him up and asked the cause of his apparent grief. He told us, in a quiet, straightforward way, that this house had been his home ever since he was born ; he had left here yesterday morning, when he heard the Yankees were coming ; he had left behind him grandmother and mother. They had then several head of cattle, a horse, and every- thing necessary to make a comfortable country home. He had just returned to find everything destroyed, house burned, cattle gone, fences gone, garden and fields beaten down by the tramping of men and the wheels of ordnance wagons. W^here his mother was he did not know. He fairly 360 TBE WASHINGTON ARTILLERY. broke down, and sobbed as though his young heart would break, but, soon recovering himself, he clenched his little fist and said, slowly and with emphasis, "If my life is spared I'll get even with these people for inflicting this wrong upon my mother. " And, turning to Chamberlayne, he said, "Captain, can't I go with you?" Chamber- layne said, "Yes, come with me. I'll make a cannoneer of you." We shared our supper with the little fellow, and put him in charge of Chamberlayne's sergeant. December 13. — Gen. A. P. Hill's corps and our Bat- talion returned to winter-quarters. 1865, January 15. — The last month has passed quietly away, without any event of great importance. The com- mand is comfortably housed, and the blue smoke seen curling from the mud chimneys gives indication of warmth and comfort within the little cabins. We have had the Christmas dinner the people of Eich- mond proposed to give to the army. Visions of roast turkey and plum pudding hovered before our eyes. We heard fabulous stories of the thousands of fowls, hams, etc., piled up in tiers in the con^w^^ssar^ai in Richmond. At last the day came for the distribution, and the men were eagerly awaiting the arrival of the commissary wagons. They came, and our share for 500 men was one loaf of bread to each company. There was a howl of disappointment, and the men said, "The quarter- masters and commissaries have eaten all the good things, and we have the crumbs." Members of the Otey battery came to my tent and showed me little slices of bread that were their share, and said they intended to keep them as THE WASHINGTON ARTILLERY. 361 souvenirs, to show after the war. And it is quite probable these fragments are preserved as reminiscences of soldiering days in many a Virginia home. Everything being quiet on the lines, and the armies having sought winter-quarters, I took advantage of the situation to obtain a few days' leave of absence, and went to Goochland county to visit Mr. Logan and family. Adju- tant Kursheedt and Capt. Owen, of the Washington Artillery, and Capt. Walke, of Col. Walker's staff, accompanied me. What a delicious time we had, and what nice things to eat ! Seven different kinds of bread upon the table at once, — " Old Yarginny " style, — and the young ladies, Misses Annie and Jennie, were very charm- ing. We were made so welcome that when our leave was up it was hard to tear ourselves away. The enemy has not devastated the James-river country yet, and we hope he never will. January 29. — On duty in camp again. The men have built a chapel just behind my tent, and have prayer-meet- ings nightly. The whole army has taken to praying, and if prayers accomplish anything we should whip this fight yet. Peace commissioners started for Washington yester- day. No good is expected from the mission. We will certainly have a campaign in the spring, of some sort or other. Heard to-day that I had been recommended for promo- tion to Lieut. -Colonel. February 5. — Enemy reported moving again towards our right. Battalion ordered to Burgess's Mill. We were put in position by Gen. Gordon, and shelled the woods occu- 362 THE WASRINOTON ARTILLERY.. pied by the enemy's cavalry, and fired seventy-five rounds ; bivouacked near the mUl. February 6. — Marched back to camp. Gen. John Pegram was killed to-day. Only ten days ago he married the beautiful Hettie Carey, and she is now at his camp down by Hatcher's Eun. February 7. — Ordered back to Burgess's Mill. At 2 A.M. reported to Gen. Gordon, who was sleeping in the snow just behind his troops, who were bivouacking in line of battle. The engagement yesterday was a sharp one, our men driving the enemy and holding the ground. Just at daybreak, while marching down the road, we passed a group of ambulances and wagons by the roadside. They were Gen. Pegram's head-quarter wagons, and his wife was with them. She inquired piteously of me if I had heard anything of her husband. Evidently they had not told her the worst. I had not the heart to be the one to break the news to her, and said I had not seen him. She was in the greatest distress. Gen. Gordon orders our guns to the Brown House, and there we took position so as to enfilade his front in case the enemy should attack him. There is some pretty brisk firing in front of Gen. Sorrel, and he is seriously wounded in the breast. Gen. Gordon said to me, "Major, you are from Louisiana. I will send you the ' Louisiana brigade ' to support your guns." Soon after a small body of troops, not over 250, came marching towards me through the ice-covered pines, and I recognized at the head of the column the giant form of Col. Peck. And this was all that was left of the "Louisiana brigade," that had numbered THM WASHINGTON ARTILLERY. 363 over 3,000 muskets before Eichmond in the seven days' battles ! Harry Hays's regiment, the Seventh, alone num- bered 1,400 men at Manassas. This extraordinary dimi- nution of numbers showed plainly what it had gone through, and the truly gallant, unconquerable Louisiana brigade, now of 250 brave hearts, tempered like fine steel in the fiery blasts of battle, was all that was left for me to depend upon to support my guns. A few old friends were marching with their men, but, oh, how many familiar faces were gone ! And their bones are buried or bleaching on the fields of Front Eoyal, Cross Keys, or on the heights of Winchester, Manassas, and Gettysburg ! February 8. — Ordered back to camp, and then to change our winter camp to Hatcher's Eun, near Burgess's Mill. Hard at work building cabins and stables, and soon are again settled down. These are the third winter-quar- ters built by this command this season. Our camp of log huts is well laid out in regular streets, and my little tent, with its glass window and door, is at the end of it all. I bought in Petersburg to-day a side of French calf-skin for $175, and arranged with a North Carolina soldier, who had been detached as a shoemaker, to make me a pair of riding boots for $75. Total cost, $250. This is con- sidered quite reasonable, as they are selling in Eichmond for from $500 to $600 a pair.i 1 The following is an abstract from the private expense book of an officer 1 travelling from E-ichmond to Augusta, Ga., in 1865. Disbursements in Con- federate money ; — March 6. 1 cui-ry-comb $10 00 " 6. Mending pants 20 00 364 THE WASHINGTON ARTILLERY. March 10. — We have remained quietly in camp for the past month. The enemy does not appear to he in a hurry to move again. For some weeks we have been having a hard time in the eating hue, and are now receiving rations of one-fourth pound of bacon and three-fourths pound of corn-meal a day ; sometimes coffee and sugar, but not often. It was at this time that Gen. Jo. Davis, the President's nephew, and young "Jeff.," the President's son, came to dine with me. They were made welcome, but, upon con- sulting " Jacob " in reference to the contents of the larder, he informed me that the remains of my day's rations, three- fourths pound of corn-meal, was all we could boast of. What under the sun was to be done ? What a fix to be in ! The nephew and the son of the President of these Con- federate States to dine with me, a Major of ArtUlery, and three-fourths pound of meal only in the larder ! However, I was equal to the occasion. Calling the Adjutant, I requested him to present my compliments to Capt. W , Lieut. L , and the doctor, and to March 11. Meal on road $20 00 " 17. Cigars and bitters 60 00 " 20. Hair-cutting and shave 10 00 " 20. Pair of eye-glasses 135 00 " 20. Candles 50 00 " 23. Coat, vest, and pants 2,700 00 " 27. 1 gallon whiskey ■ 400 00 " 30. 1 pair pants 700 00 April 12. 6 yards linen, 2% wide 1,200 00 'J 14. 1 oz. sulphate quinine 1,700 00 " 14. 2 weeks' board 700 00 " 14. Bought #60 gold 6,000 00 " 24. 1 doz. Catawba wine 900 00 " 24. Shad and suudi'ies 75 00 " 24. Matches 25 00 " 24. Penknife 125 00 " 24. 1 package browu Windsor soap 50 00 THE- WASSINOTON ARTILLERY. 365 say I would be happy to have the pleasure of their com- pany at dinner at " head-quarters " to meet some distin- guished gentlemen ; and I added, in a low tone, tell them to bring their own rations with them, their tin cups and plates. And tell the doctor not to forget a modicum of spiritus. And giving " Jacob " a few hundred dollars, he was despatched to a Georgia regiment in the outer works for a half bushel of cow-peas for soup. Meanwhile I entertained my guests by taking them about, and showing them how beautiful my camp was, how thin my horses were, and all the objects of interest, keep- ing an eye all the while upon the kitchen. At last dinner was served, and, thanks to the officers and the doctor, the menu wasn't bad. A large tin bucket held the soup, and we dipped in with our tin cups. We had plenty of bacon and corn-bread, and some excellent coffee made from " Gouber-peas." Our sugar happened to be just out ; but we explained that to our guests by laying the blame on the " commissary." He also suffered in reputation for not supplying milh and butter. However, we can't have everything at once, and if we can just manage to grease ourselves daily, so that the joints wUl work, that is all we should expect to do. We flattered ourselves our guests were pleased, anyhow, and they bade us farewell and said they " would call again," and we said we "hoped they would," and promised them turkey, if the commissary would do his duty. We begged to be remembered to the President, and to assure him we were all right and happy. In fact, " although slightly dis- figured, we're stiU in the ring." 366 THE WASHINGTON- ARTILLEJtY. This day has been set apart by the President as a day for fasting and prayer. Sheridan has used up Early in the Valley, taken all his artillery, and is now on his way to Lynchburg. Sherman has taken Savannah and Charleston and is moving on Fayetteville. Overrunning is not sub- jugation. Congress passed a bill yesterday in Richmond to enroll and arm the negroes. Think it a bad move, and too late. Still, if Gen. Lee says it is all right, why, go ahead ! Lincoln's inaugural foreshadows nothins: but " war to the knife ; " no mercy for " rebels. " We cannot come back into the Union if we would. Nothing to do but figrht it out. Thank God, our desperate state animates the men of the army, but the people at home are getting tired and do not encourage them ! March 12. — Some reports of the enemy making a move. Horses harnessed all day. I sold to-day a dia- mond ring to a merchant in Petersburg for $1 ,500 (worth $25 in greenbacks) , and contracted for a new uniform coat for $800. March 22. — Negro troops parade to-day in Richmond for the first time. The' darkies are very jubilant, and think it great fun. The music attracts them like flies around a molasses barrel. We are really suffering now for food. Yesterday I had to order some ground corn and shucks to be taken from the horses to be distributed to the men. The distribution of rations is very irregular and unreliable. While riding down the plank road this A.M. with Col. Lindsey Walker, the Chief of • Artillery of Hill's corps, we overtook Gen. Lee, riding with an orderly, going down THE WA Snmo TON- AR TILL ERT. 367 to see the cavalry below Hatcher's Run. " Good-moming, gentlemen ! " said the General. " I hope you are both well this morning." We returned his kind salutation. We rode in silence for a moment. Col. Walker was expecting daily his commission as Brigadier-General, and he had told me / was gazetted for a Lieutenant-Colonel's berth ; but we had not received official notification of our appoint- ments. Presently the General seemed to arouse himself from a revery, and, turning to me, asked, — addressing me as Colonel, — "Colonel, have you seen Rooney Lee lately?" I told him I had not. He then said, "I didn't know but you had. Colonel ; he is a gay young fellow like yourself. I thought may be you had seen him last evening at that ball you attended in the city." Then, turning to Walker, he said, " General, have you seen him in your rides ? " — "I have not," said Walker'. ^ The Gen- eral soon took a country road leading off to the right, and Walker and I exchanged winks. The General simply de- sired to inform us that our commissions were all riarht. o Another one of his pleasantries.^ iGen. Lee frequently thus addressed those around him, not that he attached any impoi'tance to, or expected any aid from, what might be said in I'eply, but in giving expression to that which occupied his own mind, — thinking aloud, so to speak. He at the same time drew from others such infonnation as they might possess, or such yiews as they might entertain. — Four Years with Lee. Tatlok. 'Promotions in the Artillery Corps Army of Northern Virginia, 6en. B. E. Lee, Petersburg, Va., February, 1865 : — To be Brig. -General. — Co\. R. L. Walker. To be Colonels. — Lieut.-Cols. W. ISTelson, D. G. Mcintosh, Frank Huger, W. J. Pegram. Tobe Lieut.-Colonels. — Majors Jno. C. Haskell, W. M. Owen, Jno. Lane, E. V. Chew, W. K. Cuttshaw, M. Johnson, R. M. Stribling. ' To be Majors. — Ca.pts. H. W. Ross, T. J. Kirkpatrick, W. J. Dance, B. C. . Manly, T. O. Brander, S. T. Wright, N. XJ. Sturdevant, J. F. Hurt, P. P. John- son, J. A. Thompson, ■ McGregor. 368 THE WASHINGTON ARTILLERY. March 25. — By order of Gen. Lee the guns of the Otey and Dickinson's batteries are turned over to the Ordnance Department, and the officers and men are ordered to Richmond to serve stationary guns under command of Lieut. -Col. King, and, having received my commission as Lieutenant-Colonel, am ordered to report to Col. Mcintosh as second field officer with his battalion, and to take with me the battery of Chamberlayne. I consequently removed my head-quarters to the Gregg House, and began the construction of a redoubt for four guns between battery Gregg and the broken dam. March 28. — We are hard at work, with large details of infantry troops, building the new redoubt. The dam, which had been built with great expenditure of time and labor, has been washed away. It had been constructed with a view of flooding this portion of the line. This new work is the substitute for it. Lieut. Battles, with two guns of the First company Washington Artillery, will occupy the work when com- pleted. Lieut. McElroy, Third company Washington Artillery, occupies battery Gregg, with sixty-four artillery drivers armed with muskets. The enemy is again moving to envelop our right, and Gen. Pickett and his troops are sent oiF to resist them. On March 29 Battles occupied the new redoubt, which the men have named " Fort Owen." 10 P.M. — The firing in front of Petersburg is very heavy, the enemy evidently making a desperate attempt to force through our lines and prevent any more troops beino- THE WASTIINOTON ARTILLERY. 369 sent to Pickett. Our lines are very weak ; the men in the trenches stand two yards apart. Pickett took with him 8,000 men. , Rumor says Grant has 200,000 men. Lee has 35,000 only. The odds are certainly fearful. April 1. — Bad news from Pickett. He has been over- whelmed at Five Forks by the Fifth corps of the Federal army and Gen. Sheridan's cavalry. We are in a tio-ht box now, and only wondering where and when our lines will be broken.' April 2. — There was very heavy firing directly in front of Petersburg all last night ; the sky was all aglow with the discharge of cannon and the bursting of mortar shells. Several infantry assaults have been repulsed. We have been told that the Second, Third, and Fourth companies Washington Artillery, under Lieut. -Col. Eshleman, are fighting hard in their redoubts. Capt. Hero reported wounded. At the earliest dawn Lieut. Battles and I re- paired to his guns. We heard heavy skirmishing about half a mile to the right. Presently a cannon was fired, and a solid shot struck near us and showered dirt upon us. Infantry soldiers began to quit, the works, -where they have been posted three yards apart, and run across the fields. Our boys said that "they were chasing rabbits." A second cannon-shot comes crashing along ; a few mus- ket-shots ; more men running, and we now realize that it has come at last. Our lines are broken, and the army cut in twain. At daybreak we can see the heavy columns of the enemy (Sixth corps) marching across the fields towards the 1 See page 370. ' 370 THE WASHINGTON ARTILLERY. CQ CO 8 1 ■l^*"! T»< -orgo -t - Tji i •swo-gso ^ (M ^ ■<*< -* s •9AB0I ino poB paddo-icr ■noH . OS t* O CO 1— I i-H r-H r-( & •asBOSip iq pUB noil -ou m pgAiao -Dj spanojujo paip JO paina ■naH <© T*( r^ CO . C<( W CN r-l s •siaotgo : — — . cq •pDSjBuosia •aoH ■^ g5 g S S 00 OS •pojMjtsireax ■TOH t-i -^H 2 -S THE WASEINQTON ARTILLERY. 371 Appomattox river. Battles is ordered to withdraw his guns to Battery Gregg but before his horses can be brought up the enemy charge across the works and captures him and all his men. Lieut. McElroy, in battery Gregg, with his infantry artillerists, opens upon the enemy with musketry, and the force is withdrawn ; then leading a charge, McElroy recaptures Battles's guns, and the teams having been brought up, they are moved down the Boydton plank road, and opened fire upon the enemy from a posi- tion in rear of the Mississippi brigade of Gen. Nat. Harris, numbering about 500 muskets, that have been posted there by Gen. Wilcox to delay the Federal advance. McElroy, finding his fire is having little or no effect, withdraws with deliberation to battery Gregg, and goes into position in that work. At the same time some guns are put in battery Whitworth, a detached work, like Gregg, to its right and rear. Harris's brigade is now in danger of being outflanked . by the enemy, and is withdrawn from its advanced position. Detachments of the Twelfth and Sixteenth regiments, under Col. James H. Duncan, are ordered into Gregg, as are the fragments of Thomas's and Lane's North Carolina brigades, numbering in all about 200 men. The Nine- teenth and Forty-eighth Mississippi regiments are placed in battery Whitworth, and Gen. Harris commands that work. Preparations were now made to receive the assault, and Lieut. McElroy was instructed to pile up his ammunition upon the platforms, so as to easily handle it, as the caissons had been left outside of the work, and the enemy, having 372 • THE WASHINGTON ARTILLERY. planted a battery in a field seven or eight hundred yards beyond Old Town Creek, had an enfilading fire which cov- ered both Gregg and Whitworth. Their shot that would miss Gregg would strike the other, and prevented all approach to the caissons. The enemy — a full corps — now advanced in three lines of battle to the charge, and the little garrison re- pulsed them. The four guns in Whitworth were with- drawn, which the enemy observing, again assaulted both works. The assault was in column of brigades, completely enveloping Gregg and approaching Whitworth only in front. Gregg repulsed assault after assault ; — the two regi- ments of Mississippians and the North Carolinians, who had won honor on so many fields, fighting this, their last battle, with most terrible enthusiasm, as if feeling this to be the last act in the drama for them. McElroy, and his men of the Washington Artillery — fighting their guns to the last — preserved untarnished the brilliancy of reputation acquired by that corps. Gregg raged like the crater of a volcano emitting its flashes of deadly fires, enveloped in flame and cloud, wreathing our flag as well in honor as in the smoke of death. It was a glorious struggle. Louisiana, represented by these noble artillerists, and Mississippi and North Carolina by their shattered bands, stood there side by side together, holding the last regular fortified lines around Petersburg. The capture of the woi-ks was but a question of time. The blue-coats finally jumped into the ditch surroundino- THE WASHTNOTON- ARTILLER T. 373 Gregg, and after a delay of half an hour climbed over each other's backs to gain the summit of the parapet. There was a weak point on the side of Gregg, where the ditch was incomplete, and where it had been planned to connect it with Whitworth by rifle-pits ; and over this the enemy rushed. Presently six regimental standards were seen waving on the parapet. While Gregg and Whitworth were holding out. Long- street was hastening with Field's division from the north side of the James to form an inner line for the purpose of covering Gen. Lee's withdrawal that night. As soon as Harris heard of the formation of that line he withdrew with his little band from Whitworth, cutting his way through. It was Gibbon's corps of 5,000 men that captured Gregg, and 68 of its brave defenders out of 200 were killed, McElroy losing 6 of his gunners killed and 2 wounded, and the rest taken prisoners. The enemy lost 800 men in the assaults on Gregg and Whitworth. ^ At 12 o'clock that night the last man and the last srun of the brave army that had defended the lines of Peters- burg for a year, passed over the pontoon bridges, and the march began that ended at Appomattox Court-House. This morning as Gen. A. P. HUl, accompanied by a single courier, was endeavoring to ride to our extreme right, at Five Forks, he ran upon two Federal soldiers of Gibbon's corps, and by them was shot and killed. He, like the French Marshal Ney, was indeed the " bravest of the brave." 1 Gibbon stated this to Gen. Wilcox at the siuTender. 374 TSE WASHINGTON' AUTILLERT. CHAPTEE XVI. SURRENDER OE THE ARMY OF NORTHERN VIRGINIA. On the Last Retreat. — Amelia Court-House. — Forty Hours without Food. — Pursued by Cavalry. — Wagons Burned. — Army Demoral- ized. — Fighting, Marching, Starring. — Organization giving "Way. — Marching -without Orders. — Appomattox. — Gordon Fighting. — Artillery Captured. — Custer, Sheridan, and Longstreet. — A Game of "Brag." APRIL 3. — Experience a feeling of relief at getting out of the trenches and on the road once more. It is reported that Richmond was evacuated last night, and President Davis and cabinet are on their way to North Carolina. Our magazines have been blown up and the bridges burned behind us. Gen. Lee declares that now he has his little army foot loose, and out of entrenchments, he will yet evade Grant and eventually hold him at bay in the mountains. Our extra caissons, ammunition, and fodder said to be awaiting us at Amelia Court-House. April 4. — The Third corps artillery reached Amelia Court-House this P.M., having marched with scarcely a halt for forty-four hours. Have not eaten a regular meal since last Sunday, — three days. While waiting this A.M. at the pontoon bridge over the Appomattox, near Amelia, one of the men gave me a piece of raw bacon and a handful of parched corn, which THE WASHINOTON ARTILLERY. 375 he had received from home a few days since. I thought it was an excellent breakfast, and tasted as nice as a tender- loin steak garnished with mushrooms in " Victor's " best style. Sheridan's cavalry are after us sharply, and have de- stroyed some wagons. It is believed that it was the intention to remain here and oiFer Grant battle ; but it has been discovered that the provisions we expected to have found here have, by some error, been sent on to Richmond, the train being required to bring away the archives. Who cares for archives now? It is food we need. The result of this mismanagement is that the army is without subsistence for men or beast. The men are rapidly becoming demoralized, and are straggling off to find, if possible, something to appease the pangs of hunger. This A.M. I saw Gens. Lee and Longstreet. As usual they both looked confident. April 5. — Gen. Lee has decided to push on and try to reach Danville and form a junction with Gen. Johnston. Our extra caissons, full of ammunition, were fired and blown up last night. The column moved this A.M. Our great wagon-train (much too great) was sent by different roads, and was at- tacked by the enemy's cavalry and many ordnance wagons burned. Marched all day and nearly all night. When the batteries halt to rest, the men throw themselves upon the ground and immediately go to sleep. When the order is given to move forward, the horses often move 376 THE WASffmGTOIf ARTILLERY. on without their drivers, so hard is it to arouse the men. Tired and hungry we push on. It is now a race for life or death. We seldom receive orders now. The enemy has the shortest line to Danville and Burkesville, and is heading us off. April 6. — Marched all day. Enemy close behind. This afternoon our rear-guard was attacked, and Gen. Lee commanded in person. Gen. Custis Lee was taken pris- oner, and many men. The enemy's cavalry appeared in our front at Riceville. We farmed a line and fired a few rounds from our artillery, which had the effect of keeping them at a respectful distance. Gen. Rosser, of our cavalry, captured 800 of the enemy, who had been sent by Grant to destroy the " High bridge " in our front, over the Appomattox river at Farmville. I was sitting on my horse, watching the men build a rude breast- work of rails and earth, when I heard a famil- iar voice behind me, inquiring the whereabouts of Gen. Longstreet. I turned to look, and there was Rosser, mounted upon a superb black horse. I had not seen Mm for months ; we shook hands, and I inquired the news. He said, " Oh ! we have captured those people who were going to destroy the bridge, took them all in ; but Jim Bearing is mortally wounded. He had a hand-to-hand encounter with the commanding officer of the Federals, Gen. Read, and cut him down from his horse, killing him ; but Read's orderly shot Dearing through the body, and then he, too, was shot. It was a gallant fight. This is THE WASHINGTON ARTILLERY. Zll Eead's horse and this his sabre. Both beauties, aren't they? But I must see Longstreet." Then for the first time I noticed that Rosser was wounded in the arm ; but he always made light of such "scratches." We hunted up Longstreet, and then, after Eosser had made his report, I accompanied him to where his cavalry had halted, thence to our bivouac, where I learned that we were to push on again as soon as it was dark. It was 10 P.M. when we took the road again. It was axle-deep in mud. It was a fearfully trying night. April 7. — Early this morning we reached Farmville and went into park to rest. Provisions are distributed for the first time, casks of bacon being knocked open on the road-side, the tired and hungry troops helping themselves as they passed by. My orderly, whom I had left behind, to follow the command with my horse " Sam," informed me that some one had stolen him while he was sleeping, but still holding the bridle. I rated him soundly, for " Old Sam " had been a faithful friend. While resting I heard my brother's familiar whistle, coming from a mass of men in the road, and answered him, and immediately we were shaking hands. He had been in Richmond when it was evacuated, and had made his way to Mr. Logan's, in Goochland, where he obtained fresh horses, and then started oif to rejoin the army, accompanied by young Logan. I was glad to see him and to get the good mount he had brought me. We had rested but a little while when orders came to be oiF again, and then the quartermasters, headed by Col. Corley, chief quartermaster, began to burn the army wagons. 378 THE WASBINOTON ARTILLERY. The enemy was following closely over the railroad bridge that our cavalry had, in their hurry, failed to burn. A line of battle was formed and an attack of the enemy repulsed. Matters were looking, blue, and some artillery was aban- doned. In the afternoon, while our column was moving through an old field parallel to the wagon road, bullets began to whistle around our ears, and presently a brigade (Laurel) of our cavalry appeared on our flank, crying, " They are coming ! they are coming ! " I was marching at my post in rear of the column of guns, and feeling assured that the enemy was upon us gave the order at the top of my voice, "'Tention! Fire to the left, in battery!" With great promptitude the guns were wheeled into position ready for action just as the Federal cavalry came charging to the crest of the high ground. With shell cut for close range, and canister, our twelve guns were let loose, and such a scattering I never saw before. A brigade of our infantry, about two hundred men, came marching from the road to our assistance, and Mcintosh and I, now all excite- ment, drew our sabres and placed ourselves in front to lead them to the charge, when Gen. Walker, whose troops they were, and whom I had not observed, cried, " Gentlemen ! I'll lead my men myself ! " — and we subsided. Chamberlayne, with one gun, then accompanied the charge, and when our troops rejoined the column of march, they had with them, as a prisoner of war, Gen, Gregg, U.S. cavalry. The General was quite chagrined, and said " he had thought he would have had an easy time of it destroying our movino- trains, and had not expected to run into the jaws of a THE WASHINGTON ARTILLERY. 379 whole park of artillery." It was fortunate that we were there just in the nick of time, for had Gregg obtained possession of the road, he stood a good chance of cutting off Gen. Lee and staff and capturing them. I didn't know that Cullen and Barksdale had been spec- tators, until we had limbered up and moved on, then they rode up and congratulatejl us warmly, and inviting me into the bushes, produced a canteen of " medical supplies," from which I took a hearty pull. We were compelled this afternoon to leave behind, stuck in the mud, the rear chest of a caisson. We halted awhile to rest and eat something (if we had it) , and the surgeons offered to share their coffee and sugar if we would share our meat, which was done ; and we all supped together. The march was then resumed, and con- tinued without orders all night, the men falling asleep at every halt. And so the retreat rolls on. We are passing abandoned cannon, and wrecked and overturned wagons, and their now useless contents belonging to the quartermasters. Horses and mules dead or dying in the mud. At night our march is lighted by the fires of burning wagons, and the hoarse roar of cannon and the rattle of small arms befcire, be- hind, and on our flanks, are ever in our ears. The constant marching and fighting without sleep or food are rapidly thinning the ranks of this grand old army. Men who have stood by their flags since the beginning of the war now fall out of the ranks and are captured, simply because it is beyond their power of physical endurance to go any farther. 380 THE WASHINGTON ARTILLERY. April 8. — We halted just before day near New Store, Buckingham county. Here the Colonel's cook reported us out of provender ; so we resumed our march without any breakfast, halting about 9 A.M. on the road to Lynchburg. Riding to the front I was not a little surprised to see the Colonel and his Adjutant eating breakfast in a fence corner. Their cook had discovered provisions in a remarkable manner. However, I was fortunate enough to meet Col. Edmund Pendleton, Fifteenth Louisiana, who was travelling with the trains, and he shared his breakfast with me, and gave me besides, three large slabs of dessicated vegetables for making soup. We went into bivouac on Rocky Run, one mile from Appomattox Court-House. Surgeons CuUen and Barks- dale joined me at my camp-fire, and we had a bucket of soup for supper. At Amelia Court-House all of the artillery battalions of the army, except ours and that of Lieut. Col. John C. Has- kell, were sent off ahead of the army to try and reach some point in JSTorth Carolina to recruit, and obtain fresh horses if possible. These battalions were under the command of Gen. R. Lindsey Walker. After we went into bivouac this evening, the artillery firing, we had heard in front late in the afternoon, seemed to be approaching nearer. It was not a great while before long trains of wagons came tear- ing down the road from the front, the drivers whipping up their mules and shouting lustily. I mounted my horse and rode forward to see what was the matter. I had not gone far before I came up to a force of infantry that were TSE WASHINGTON ARTILLERY. 381 being aligned across the road and preparing for defence. Here I met some officers and men of the Washinston Artillery, from whom I learned that Gen. Walker's column of artillery (about sixty pieces) had been marching in front of the army all day, and at about 4 P.M. halted in a gro'Ve just before reaching Appomattox Station, on the Lynch-, burg railroad. Everything had been so quiet that they concluded to have a good rest, the officers and men taking advantage of the time to wash up and refresh themselves. It was not thought necessary to put out pickets, as the enemy was supposed to be pushing only our rear. While enjoying this supposed security, all of a sudden, a bugle-call rang out upon the air, and a squadron of Federal cavalry was seen preparing to charge. Men rushed to their guns in a hurry, horses were hitched up, and as the enemy advanced they were met by a raking fire of canister, which repulsed them. But again and again the enemy, reinforced, charged. They were Sheridan's cavalry. The artillery that could be gotten off, fired retiring, and fell back to Appomattox Court-House, where in the streets of the town, they met infantry coming to their support, who in turn drove the cavalry back with loss. But the Washington Artillery, fighting to the last, and evading capture with difficulty, destroyed the gun-carriages,- buried their guns in the woods, and nearly all the officers and men went to the mountains. They fired their last shot to-day, after three years and nine months' service in the field since Bull Run, July, 1861. The officers and men who joined me at my camp-fire were Capt. Jo. Norcom and Lieut. George Apps, of 382 THE WASIIINOTON -ARTILLERY. Fourth company, and Sergt. William Fellowes, of First company, Washington Artillery. April 9. — At 9 o'clock this morning the battalion was moved out into the road to resume the march. Just as we emerged, Gen. Lee was riding by, going towards the rear, accompanied by Cols. Marshall and Taylor of his staff. As I saluted him he reined up his horse and said, " Good- morning, Colonel! How are your horses this morning? Do you think you can keep up with the infantry to-day ? " I replied, " I thought I could ; that they had had a pretty good feed of shucks, and appeared to be in tolerable condi- tion. But, General," I added, "I have no orders." He replied, "You will find Gen. Longstreet on the hill yonder ; he will give you orders." And, touching his hat in acknowledgment of my salute, he continued his ride. I noted particularly his dress. He was in full uniform, with a handsome embroidered belt and dress sword, tall hat, and buff gauntlets. His horse, " Old Traveller," was finely groomed, and his equipment, bridle, bit, etc., were polished until they shone like silver. All this seemed peculiar. I had never seen him before in full rig, and began to think something strange was to happen. He always wore during the campaigns a gray sack coat with side pockets, quite like the costume of a business man in cities ; and after the second Manassas I had never seen him carry a sword. Not seeing Col. Mcintosh I moved the Battalion forward towards the hiH, where I was to find Gen. Longstreet. From the sound of firing in front it was evident that Gordon and Fitz Lee were attacking Sheridan's cavalry, THE WASHINOTON ARTILLERY. 383 who outnumbered them four to one, and had also the com- forting assurance that the Army of the James was not far off, to support them if needed. When ray march brought me to the hill I espied Generals Longstreet and Alexander, chief of artillery, sitting on a log. Alexander got up and came towards me. I said to him, " Gen. Lee instructed me to stop here for orders.- What do yo|i want me to do ? " He replied, " Turn into that field on the right and park your guns." Then added, in a low tone, "We are going to surrender to- day ! " We had bee?i thinking it might come to that, soonear or later ; but when the shock came it was terrible. And was this to be the end of all our marching and fighting for the past four years ? I could not keep back the tears that came to my eyes. Alexander cautioned me to keep the news quiet, and I moved on to the field designated, with a heavy heart, and parked the batteries. Col. Haskell's battalion was already in park near me in the same field. The firing continued in front for some time, and Gordon drove the " invincible troopers " more than a mile, and sent back a large number of prisoners and two pieces of artil- lery which he had captured. The latter were placed in Haskell's park. Had it been only Sheridan that barred the way the sur- raider would not have occurred at Appomattox ; but Gordon only drove back the cavalry to find himself con- fronted by tibie Army of the James, and their bayonets could now be seen advancing through the trees, and the road was blocked with ten times his number. 384 THE WASHINGTON ARTILLERY. It was then that the flag of truce was raised, by an agree- ment with Sheridan and Gordon. Presently a Federal cavalry officer was observed coming down the road towards our forces ; he wore his hair very long, and it was of a light or reddish color. In his hand he carried a white handkerchief, which he constantly waved up and down. He inquired for Gen. Lee, and was directed to Gen. Longstreet upon the hill. Upon approaching the General he dismounted and said, " Gen. Longstreet, in the name of Gen. Sheridan and myself I demand the sur- render of this army. I am Gen. Custer." Gen. Long- street replied, "I am not in command of this army. Gen. Lee is, and he has gone back to meet Gen. Grant in regard to a surrender." " Well," said Custer, "no matter about Gen. Grant; we demand the surrender be made to us. If you do not do so we will renew hostilities, and any blood shed will be upon your head ! " " Oh, well ! " said Longstreet, " if you do that I will do my best to meet you ; " then, turning to his staff, he said, " Col. Manning, please order Gen. Johnson to move his division to the front, to the right of Gen. Gordon. Col. Latrobe, please order Gen. Pickett forward, to Gen. Gordon's left. Do it at once ! " Custer listened with sur- prise depicted upon his countenance ; he had not thought so many of our troops were at hand with Longstreet. He, cooling off immediately, said, " General, probably we had better wait until we hear from Grant and Lee. I will speak to Gen. Sheridan about it ; don't move your troops yet." THE WASHINGTON ARTILLERY. 385 And he mounted and withdrew in a much more quiet style than in his approach. As he passed out of hearing, Longstreet said quietly, with that peculiar chuckle of his, "Ha! ha! that young man has never learned to play the game of 'Brag.'" The divisions of Johnson and Pickett were only a myth, and had no existence whatever after the fight at " Five Forks." Shortly after this little event Gen. Lee, with his two staff-officers, rode through our lines towards Appomat- tox Court-House, and halted, and dismounted not far from where our artillery was parked. In a few minutes a federal staff-officer, bearing a flag of truce, and who was said to represent Gen. Grant, rode up to where Gen. Lee was sitting in a small orchard by the roadside. He brought word that Gen. Grant was ready to see him at the front, and, accompanied by Col. Marshall only, he rode into the village of Appomattox Court-House. By a singular coincidence the meeting of the Generals took place in the house of Major McLean, the same gen- tleman who in 1861, at the battle of Bull Run, had ten- dered his house to Gen. Beauregard for head-quarters. He removed from Manassas after the battle, with the inten- tion of seeking some quiet nook where the alarms of war could never find him ; but it was his fortune to be in at the beginning, and in at the death. We did not immediately learn what happened at the in- terview, but it came out later that the two Generals sat at a table to confer together, when Gen. Lee opened the con- versation by saying, " General, I deem it due to proper 386 TSE WASHINGTON AETILLERT. candor and frankness, to say at the very beginning of this interview, that I am not willing even to discuss any terms of surrender inconsistent with the honor of my army, which I am determined to maintain to the last." Gen. Grant replied, "I have no idea of proposing dishon- orable terms, General ; but I would be glad if you would state what you consider honorable terms." Gen. Lee then briefly stated the terms upon which he would be willing to surrender. Grant expressed himself -satisfied with them, and Lee requested he would formally reduce the propositions to writing ; which Gen. Grant immediately proceeded to do. Gen. Lee read the propositions carefully, and copies were made of the paper by Gen. Grant's secretary and Col. Marshall. While this was being done. Grant and Lee chatted to- gether, and tvith the other Federal Genej-als (Ord and Sheridan) who were present, but nothing bearing upon the surrender, except Gen. Lee stated he had two or three thousand prisoners he would like to get rid of, for whom he had no rations. Gen. Grant having signed his note, G^n. Lee conferred with Col. Marshall, who wrote this brief note of acceptance of the terms of the surrender offered : — Head-quarters, Armt of Northern Virginia, April 9, 1865. Gejjeral: — I have received your letter of this date, containing the terms of surrender of the Army of Northern Virginia as proposed by you. As they are substantially the same as those expressed in your letter of the 8th instant they are accepted. THE WASHINGTON ARTILLERY. 387 I -will proceed to designate the proper officers to carry the stipulations into effect. Very respectfully, Your obedient servant, E. E. LEE. This terminated the interview, and Gen. Lee mounted his horse and rode back to his quarters, which were three- quarters of a mile north-east of the Court-House. As soon as he was seen riding towards his army, whole lines of men rushed down to the roadside, and crowded around him to shake his hand : all tried to show him the veneration and esteem in which they held him. Filled with emotion he essayed to speak, but could only say, "Men, we have fought through the war together. I have done the best I could for you. My heart is too full to say more." "We all knew the pathos of those simple words, of that slight tremble in his voice, and it was no shame on our manhood " that something upon the soldier's cheek washed off the stains of powder ; " that our tears answered to those in the eyes of our grand old chieftain, and that we could only grasp the hand of "Uncle Robert," and pray " Ood help you, Oeneral J " And as he rode on to his tent, and disappeared from our view, "the Army of Northern Virginia" passed away, leaving upon the page of history a record of valor and devotion never excelled ; " its battle-flags were furled for- ever, never lowered in defeat, but in accordance with the orders of its beloved commander, who was himself yield- ing obedience to the dictates of a pure and lofty sense of duty to his men." 388 THE WASHINGTON ARTILLERY. CHAPTEE XVII. DISBANDMENT, AND HOME AGAIK. Less than 8,000 Veterans with Lee. — Terms of Surrender. — Paroles. — Turning in our Batteries. — On to Mexico. — Lee's Farewell Address. — Dispersion of the Confederates. — On to Richmond. — General Hallecls. — Sherman's Army. — Fortress Monroe and Baltimore. — " Barnum's Hotel." — " Maryland Club." — " New York Hotel." — Steamship "Monterey." — Bound for Home. — " Pelicans " Eeturning. — New Orleans. — Home Again. APRIL 10. — The army slept soundly last night upon the ground, and obtained the much-needed rest they had been strangers to for many a long day. This morning it is raining, and we, at head-quarters, procured an old wagon-cover and constructed a shelter with the aid of some fence-rails. Seven thousand eight hundred and ninety-two (7,892) men only were in line of battle yester- day, with arms in their hands ; the remainder of the army have been unable to keep up for want of food and exhaus- tion, and have probably been taken prisoners. All honor to the brave men who, more fortunate than their comrades, were able to stand by Lee to the last mo- ment. In the absence of Col. Mcintosh, who had gone to the mountains, I had the Battalion assembled and informed the men of the terms of the surrender, which were as follows : that each officer and man were to go to their homes after receiving a parole. The officers to retain their side-arms THE WASHINGTON ARTILLERY. 389 and private horses. The rolls were then called and but few men were found to be missing. I was informed this morning that my baggage-wagon was burned at Appomattox Station, on the night of the 8th, so I had lost my valise containing my swell $800 uniform, books, and letters too. I received to-day the following note from Captain Haskell, A.A.G., for Gen. Alexander : — Head-quarteks Artilleet, First Corps. Colonel : — I send up a sufficient number of paroles for your com- mand, including the Thirteenth Virginia Battalion of Artillery, the Washington Artillery, ' and Donaldsonville Artillery. 1 There wag no formal surrender of the Washington Ai'tillery with the Army of Northern Virginia at Appomattox Court-House. Some of the oiBcersaud men succeeded in reaching President Davis, and acted as his body-guard, as the fol- lowing letter will show : — Washington, Ga., May 3, 1865. Lieut. C. H. C. Brown, Washington Artillery : — Mt dear Sir, — The President directs me to return to you his heartfelt thanks for the valuable services rendered him by yourself and the gallant men under your command, as part of his escort. Very truly yours, Wm. Preston Johnston, Col. and A.D.G. The names of the officers and men referred to are as follows : — Chas. H. C. Brown, Lieutenant Commanding, Washington ArtUlery. W. G. Coyle, Sergeant, 3d Company, Washington Artillery. J. F. Lilly, Corporal, 4th T. J. Lazzare, Private 4th " " E. Wilkerson, ' ' 1st J. B. McMuUan, ' ' 1st R. McDonald, ' ' 4th Webster, ' ' 4th E. N. Davis, ' 4th W. A. McKay, " 1st L. D. Porter, Louisiana Guard Artillery. W. R. Payne, 11 i< (( C. A. Longue, ' ;t •( « T. J. Domerty, ' i( (( it 390 THE WASHINGTON ARTILLERY. You must sign for all except your own, which will be signed by Gen. Alexander. There is a difference in the form, hut they are all the same. One is to be given to each man. No duplicates are to be made. Send back any blanks you don't need, as we are very short. Yours respectfully, J. C. HASKELL, A.A.Gen'l. To Lieut. Col. W. M. Owen, Commanding Battalion Artillery. With the assistance of Col. Edmund Pendleton, Fifteenth Louisiana, Captains Owen andNorcom, and Lieut. George Apps of the Washington Artillery, I proceeded to parole the men of the artillery command, as directed. The paroles were slips of paper about the size of a bank check, and read as follows : — Appomattox ConKT-HotrsE, April 10, 1865. The bearer. Private , of Battery of Artillery, a paroled prisoner of war of the Army of Northern Virginia, has per- mission to go to his home and there remain undisturbed until exchanged. (Signed) "W. M. OWEN, Lieut. Col. Commanding Battalion of Artillery. These passes were respected by all pickets and guards as much as they would have been had they been signed by Gen. Grant himself. The infantry of the army have been marched to a field adjacent to Appomattox Court-House, and have stacked their arms, and having laid down their tattered battle-flags across the stacks, and hung up their cartridge-boxes, have been marched back to their respective bivouacs. Forty -five (45) officers and men escaped under Major Buck Miller (the horses having been cut from their harness) by way of Lynchburg and the mountains, to General Jo. Johnston's army in North Carolina. THE WASHINGTON ARTILLERY. 391 Another night was spent sleeping soundly in the mud and rain, and this A.M. (11th), according to instructions, I had my teams hitched up and moved my three batteries (12 guns) to the main road, where I turned them over to the Federal officer detailed to receive them. Returning to our " shelter " I was visited by Gen. Jno. G. Hazard, Chief of Artillery of the Second Corps, U.S.A., and his Adjutant-General, Capt. T. Fred Brown. We couldn't extend to the General much polite attention, but we did the best we could under existing circumstances. Officers and men of the Federal army mingled freely with our officers and men around our camp-fires, and not a harsh word was spoken on either side. In fact the conduct of the victors was beyond all praise. They sent our starving men provisions, and not a shout of exultation nor the music of a band was heard during: all the time we were at Appomattox. A feeling of great and deep sadness filled the breasts of our army, and a feeling of deli- cate sympathy pervaded the other. Brave men who had looked into each other's eyes for four long years along the shining musket-barrel, and across the deadly, blazing trench, understood and respected one another. Something was said about our joining together under the "old flag" and marching to drive Maximilian out of Mexico, and I believe we would have gladly gone, but nothing came of it. On the morning of the 10th, Gen. Meade called to pay his respects to Gen. Lee. The latter reported to his staff after the visit, that the conversation had naturally turned upon the recent events, and that Gen. Meade had asked 392 THE WASHINGTON ARTILLERY. him how many men he had at Petersburg at the time of Gen. Grant's last assault. . He told him in reply that, by the last returns, he had thirty-five thousand muskets (35,- 000) . Gen. Meade then said, "You mean you had 35,000 men on the lines immediately around Petersburg ? " to which _ Gen. Lee replied, "No, that he had but that number from his left on the Chickahominy river to his right at Dinwiddle Court-House." At this Gen. Meade expressed great surprise, and stated that he then had with him, in one wing of the Federal army which ho commanded, over 50,000 men. The number of Confederates paroled was between 26,000 and 27,000.^ On the morning of AprU 12th, our battalion and the remnants of other battalions to be paroled were assembled for the last time in front of our camp-fire, and I read to them the farewell address of Gen. Lee, as follows : — Head-quaeteks Akmy op Northern Virginia, Appomattox Court-House, April 10, 1865. General Orders No. 9 : — After four years of arduous service, marked by unsurpassed courage and fortitude, the Army of Northern Virginia has been compelled to yield to overwhelming numbers and resources. I need not tell the brave survivors of so many hard fought battles who have remained steadfast to the last, that I have consented to this result from no distrust of them ; but feeling that valor and devotion could accomplish nothing that would ■ compensate for the loss that must have attended a continuance of the conflict, I determined to avoid useless sacrifice of those whose past services have endeared them to their countrymen. By the terms of the agreement, officers and men can go to their homes and remain until exchanged. You will take with you the satisfaction that proceeds from the con- 1 " Foui- Years with Lee." — TArLOR. Tout Pekdu. TEE- WASHINGTON ARTILLERY. 393 sciousness of duty faithfully performed, and I earnestly pray that a merciful God will extend to you his blessing and protection. With an unceasing admiration of your constancy and devotion to your country, and a, grateful remembrance of your kind and grateful con- sideration for myself, I bid you an affectionate farewell. E. E. LEE. The men listened with marked attention and with mois- tened eyes as this grand farewell from our old chief was read, and then receiving each his parole they every one shook my hand warmly and bade me good-by ; and break- ing up into parties of three and four, turned their faces homeward ; some to Richmond, some to Lynchburg, and some to far-oiF ruined Louisiana. I watched them until the last man disappeared with a wave of his hand around a curve of the road ; then mount- ing our horses and taking a sad farewell of Generals Lee, Longstreet, Gordon, and Latrobe, Taylor, CuUen, and Barksdale, we rode away from Appomattox. And now — "Oh, farewell! Farewell the neighing steed, and the shrill trump, The spirit-stirring drum, the ear-piercing fife, The royal banner ; and all quality, Pride, pomp, and circumstance of glorious war ! And O, you mortal engines, whose rude throats, The immortal Jove's dread clamors counterfeit. Farewell ! " We rode forty miles upon oiir return journey, and biv- ouacked in a tobacco-barn near Cumberland Court-House, and obtained some corn-bread and milk from a kind- hearted old negro woman. Our party consisted of Capt. E. 394 THE WASHINGTON ARTILLERY. Owen, Lieut. -Col. J. Floyd King, Maj. Thomas Brander, and William Fellowes. Bright and early we resumed our ride until we crossed the James, and halted at the hospitable home of Mr. Logan, in Goochland, where the family gave us a hearty welcome, yet withal, a sad one ; they had lost all hope for the future. We rested well — frequently falling asleep while talking with our hosts. The night before our lines were broken at Petersburg the boys of the section of the First company Washington Artillery under Lieut. Battles, placed in my possession for safe-keeping, their old battle-flag, as it was too much torn and riddled by bullets to be any longer used. I took it and hung it up in my quarters at Gregg House. Next morning, when the assaults were being made upon the Fort (Gregg), and the bullets were flying thick and fast, I remembered the flag, and, riding up to the window where it hung, broke in the sash with my sabre and secured it. I carried it in my saddle-pocket as far as Amelia Court- House, where I transferred it to John Logan, who was going home, with instructions to give it to his sisters for safe- keeping. The girls concealed it in a sofa cushion, and after Lee's army had retreated. Federal cavalry came to the house, and officers slept upon the sofa, and laid their heads upon this piece of bunting. The cushion now having been produced, a few cuts with a knife revealed the tattered guidon. While it is very wrong to "kiss and tell," it must nevertheless be recorded that Capt, Owen bestowed a hearty kiss all round. This little relic now occupies an honored place with other THE WASHINGTON ARTILLERY. 395 flags in the arsenal of the Washington Artillery, in New Orleans. We ended our journey, and rode into Eichmond on the 18th of April ; and as we passed through Main street fur- tive glances were cast and little white handkerchiefs were waved at us by the ladies at the windows of their houses. Main street (the business part of it) was in ruins. Officers in blue were lounging about our usual haunts. Soldiers in blue had usurped the places of the boys in gray. At the outpost, when we entered the city, we were kindly received by the officer in charge, and were informed by him that President Lincoln had been assassinated. We told him that" we sincerely regretted it was so. He said, " Yes, I am sorry for you all, for it wUl go hard with you now, and the whole South." The 22d of AprU found us still in Eichmond. We are not allowed " to go to our homes unmolested," on account of the assassination. I sold my horse and a mule, and this put us in funds. Fortunately some kind friends had saved my trunk of re- serve clothing, but I thought it prudent to purchase a suit of ready-made garments and a round-top hat. Some rows having occurred at the " Spottswood Hotel," between Confederate and German Federal officers, we were politely requested to leave, so we hired apartments on Franklin street, and from our windows witnessed the army of Gen. Sherman pass through en route for Washing- ton. We finally took the amnesty oath at the State- House, and called upon Gen. Halleck at the " White House," to ask permission to leave the city. 396 TSE WASHINOTON ARTILLERY. When I crossed the threshold of that house how many- pleasant memories it brought to mind, what visions and plans of happiness that were never to be realized ! How my heart went out to Mr. Davis and his family, now in so much trouble and distress ! We laid our request before Gen. Halleck, and were refused unceremoniously ; but, nevertheless, the next morn- ing we were, incognito, on board the steamboat " Georgi- ana," bound for Fortress Monroe and Baltimore. We took leave of our friends in Richmond with sincere regret ; all had been so kind to us we had begun to con- sider it our home. While we were detained in Eichmond, awaiting permission to depart, a delegation of officers called upon Gen. Lee to find out what he would say in re- gard to a half-formed resolution we had made to go to Brazil and enter the army. The General was indisposed, but Gen. Custis Lee told us that it was the expressed wish of his father that every- body should "go home and help build up the country." The Brazilian army obtained no recruits. On the 16th of May we arrived at Baltimore, and stopped at " Barnum's Hotel," and were entertained at the "Maryland Club." The 28th of May found us snugly located at the " New York Hotel," in New York city, and, dropping in at Brooks's, we arrayed ourselves in swell garments, and felt and looked like gentlemen of elegant leisure once more. I dined with Mr. William Travers, and hunted up my old friends, the Gilmans, all of whom I found, to my un- speakable regret, married ; they had a hearty welcome for THE WASHINGTON ARTILLERY. 397 me and called me their " rebel friend," and insisted upon my saying, over and over again, " I am so sorry ! " Latrobe joined us here, but stayed but a day. Happen- ing to see an outrageous caricature of Mr. Davis hanging in front of Barnum's Museum, on Broadway, he, in great 'disgust, hurried away to Boston, and took a Cunarder for England. On the 3d of June, Capt. Hilary Cenas, C. S. Navy, and I, took passage on board the steamship " Monterey," bound for New Orleans. On the third day out we learned, through the Purser, that a number of " Pelicans " were passengers in the steer- age. So both of us, taking a bottle of champagne under each arm, climbed down the companion-way into the dimly lighted 'tween-decks, and introducing ourselves to our compatriots we were enthusiastically received, and popped the corks and had a jolly time.^ On the 13th of June, 1865, we walked into the " St. Charles Hotel," in New Orleans, where we found officiating, as head clerk, Andy Blakely, an ex-member of the Wash- ington Artillery, who took us in and cared for us, and we slept once more under a Louisiana sky, and were preyed upon and bled by the long since forgotten Louisiana mos- quito. In the morning, my last piece of " fractional currency " (25 cents) was invested in a " Picayune " and a mild re- freshing beverage, and stepping out upon the broad stone • The names of those returning soldiers were as follows : — John A. Lafaye, Numa Landiy, Ernest Landry, Henry Stan-, M. O'Neil, Honore Flotte, Alfred Lamothe, Leon Lamothe, Octave Legier. 398 THE WASHINGTON ARTILLERY. balcony of the hotel, into the warm, delicious June sun- shine, I took up again the broken thread of a business life without a dollar in the world, emphatically and completely "busted." THE WASHINOTON ARTILLERY. 399 CHAPTER XVin. THE FIFTH COMPANY BATTALION WASHINGTON ARTIL- LERY. ON tjie departure for the seat of war in Virginia of the first four companies of the Battalion, on the 27th of April, 1861, the following order was promulgated by the Major Commanding, the last issued by him previous to mustering into the service of the Confederate States : — Heai>-quarteks Battalion Washinoton Artillery, New Orleans, April, 1861. VII. — First Lieut. W. I. Hodgson, of the 4th Company, is hereby specially detailed to remain in New Orleans on recruiting service, and will forward, from time to time, to the seat of war, such recruits as may be required, and hold himself subject to any further orders from these head-quarters. By order, J. B. WALTON, Wm. M. Owen, Adjutant. Major Commanding. A reserve force of twenty men was left behind, and Lieut. Hodgson, with their assistance, rapidly organized a Mfth company ; and, in one month from the day of the departure of the Battalion, held an election for oflicers, casting over 150 votes, v^ith the following result : — Captain. — W. Irving Hodgson. Senior First Lieutenant. — Theo. A. James. Junior First Lieutenant. — Kinaldo Banister. 400 THE WASHINGTON- ARTILLERY. Senior 'Second Lieutenant. — Jerry G. Pierson. Junior Second Lieutenant. — E. L. Hews. When the Battalion left for Virginia they left the arsenal on Girod street in an unfinished condition, the roof not yet put on, the floors torn up, and everything in the way of camp and garrison equipage, artillery and ordnance stores taken with them. Yet, in order to supply their place, the reserves went to work with a wUl. They sent special committees to Baton Rouge to the Legislature, to the City Council of New Orleans, and the merchants and capitalists of the city and State. Through handsome donations from the former, a generous appropriation from the Council, and the unbounded liberality of the latter (including the present of a piece of artillery and caisson complete from Gov. Thomas Overton Moore, and a simi- lar gift from John I. Adams, a prominent merchant of New Orleans), they were able within ninety days to com- plete the arsenal, and pay for it. They besides perfected the organization of six handsome brass field-pieces, with limbers, caissons and harness all complete, with a serviceable and complete stock of camp and garrison equipage for 160 men ; all this without owing a dollar. From time to time, during the first year of the war, they sent to their comrades in Virginia reinforcements of men and drivers, artificers, etc., always forwarding under the command of an officer of the Fifth company, and always sending them oif fully clothed and equipped, free of ex- pense to the Battalion. THE WASHINGTON ARTILLERY. 401 A semi-weekly mail was regularly sent also to*the com- mand in the field, the cases being packed not only with mail matter, but with clothing, edibles, and everything intended for any member of the command, sent him by his family or friends, and with no expense to the soldier of transportation. Early in the year 1862, the members of the Fifth com- pany exhibited much military ardor, and felt unwilling to remain longer at home, while their comrades, friends and brothers, were sharing the dangers and toils of camp life. ■ In February of that year Captain Hodgson addressed a communication to Brig. -Gen. E.'L. Tracy, commanding the First brigade. First division Louisiana State militia, to which his battery was attached, asking for a new election of officers, intended for active service in field ; in con- formity to which, Gen. Tracy ordered an election on the 24th day of that month ; and under the supervision* and direction of Majors Ignatius Caulfield and John B. Prados, of his staiF, the election took place as directed. There were 185 votes cast, with the following result : — Captain. -■ — W. Irving Hodgson. Senior First Lieutenant. — Cuthbert H. Slocomb. Junior First Lieutenant. — Wm. C. D. Vaught. Senior Second Lieutenant. — Edson L. Hews. Junior Second Lieutenant. — J. A. Chalaron. On the first day of March, 1862, the following despatch from Gen. G. T. Beauregard, was published in all of the New Orleans daily papers : — 402 THE WASHINGTON ARTILLERY. DESPATCH FROM GEN. BEAnKEGAKD. Jackson, Tenn., Feb. 28, 1862. To Gov. Tugs. 0. Moore : — "Will accept all good equipped troops, under the act of 21st August, that will offer, and for ninety days. Let the people understand that here is the proper place to defend Louisiana. G. T. BEAUREGARD. Captain Hodgson immediately called a meeting of his command, whicli was held on the second day of the month, when it was shown that there was but one unanimous voice to at once offer their services for ninety days, or the war. All necessary arrangements having been made for their immediate departure for the field, the following order was issued and published in the daily papers : — Head-quarters Fifth Co., Bat. Washington Artillery, New Orleans, March 5, 1862. [Order No. 44.] I. — The officers and members of this corps are hereby ordered to appear at the arsenal on Thursday morning, the 6th inst. , at 10 o'clock, punctually, fully equipped, with knapsacks packed, for the purpose of being mustered into the Confederate States service. II. — Every member of the command is expected to be present. Those failing to appear will not be allowed to leave with the com- mand. By order of W. IRVING HODGSON, Captain. A. Gordon Bakewell, O.S. On Thursday morning, March 6, 1862, at 11 o'clock, the Fifth company were regularly mustered into the ser- THE WASHINGTON' ARTILLERY. 403 rice bv the enrolling officer of Gen. ilansfield Lovell'a staff, in Lafayette square, with 156 men, rank and file ; thej left Xew Orleans for the seat of war in ^Mississippi and Tennessee on Saturday, March 8, 1862, carrying with them their sis guns, with everything perfect and com- plete, including their camp and garrison equipage, and without the cost of one doUar to the State or Confederate government. The following is the "Eoster" of the Fifth company, as mustered, into service : — Officers. — Capt. , W.Irving Hodgson ; Senior 1st Lieut., C. H. Slocomb ; Junior 1st Lieut., W. C. D. Vaught; Senior 2d Lieut., Edson L. Hews; Junior 2d Lieut., J. A. Chalaron ; Assistant Surgeon, J. Cecil LeGare. JTon-Commtssioned Staff. — Orderly Sergeant, A. Gordon BakeweU ; Ordnance Sergeant, J. H. H. Hedges ; Quartermaster's Sergeant, J. B. Wolfe ; Commissary Ser- geant, W. E. Barstow. 1st Sergeant, J. W. De Merritt ; 2d Sergeant, B. H. Green, Jr. ; 3d Sergeant, A. J. Leverich ; 4th Sergeant, W. B. Giffen ; 5th Sergeant, John Bartley ; 6th Sergeant, Thos. M. Blair. 1st Corporal, John J. Jamison; 2d Corporal, S. Hig- gins; 3d Corporal, W. X. Calmes ; 4th Corporal, E. TT. Frazer ; 5th Corporal, Emmet Putnam ; 6th Corporal, X. L. Bruce. 1st Caisson Corporal, D. W. Smith ; 2d Caisson Cor- poral, E. J. O'Brien ; 3d Caisson Corporal, A. S. Winston ; 4th Caisson Corporal, L. Macready ; 5th Caisson Corporal, Alf. Bellanger; 6th Caisson Corporal, E. Charles. 404 THE WASHINGTON ARTILLERY. Sergeant Drivers, J. H. Smith ; Corporal Drivers, F. N. Thayer. 1st Artificer, W. A. Freret ; 2d Artificer, J. F. Spear- ing ; 3d Artificer, W. A. Jourdan ; 4th Artificer, John Beggs ; 5th Artificer, John Davidson ; 6th Artificer, Fred. Holmes. Privates. — Alex. AUain, V. F. Allain, T. C. Allen, C. A. Adams, N. Buckner, Jos. Banfil, Ben Bridge, A. T. Bennett, Jr., B. Boyden, A. J. BlafFer, John Board- man, Marcus J. Beebe, C. B. Broadwell, T. L. Bayne, Jas. Clarke, J. T. Crawford, "W. Wj» Clayton, Joseph Denegre, J. H. Duggan, J. M. Davidson, M. Eastman, A. M. Fahenstock, E. C. Feinour, E. Fehrenbach, John Y. Eraser, Charlda W. Fox, Robert Gibson, James F. Gif- fen, C. J. Hartnett, C. M. Harvey, W. D. Henderson, H. L. Henderson, Curtis Holmes, John B. Humphreys, Charles G. Johnsen, C. B. Jones, Gabriel Kaiser, W- B. Krumbharr, Minor Kenner, Jr. , H. H. Lonsdale, H. Leckie, L. L. Levy, Martin Mathis, Levi^is Mathis, H. J. Mather, E. Mussina, Eugene May, E. S. Mcllhenny, Milton Mc- Knight, H. D, McCowrn, D. C. Miller, W. R. Murphy, F. Maillieu, G. W. Palfrey, Robert Pugh, Richard L. Pugh, E. F. Reichert, S. F. Russell, E. Ricketts, J. M. Seixas, W. W. Sewell, G. W. Skidmore, L. Seicbrecht, George H. Shotwell, R. P. Salter, W. B. Stuart, Robert Strong, W. Steven, J. H. Scqtt, J. T. Skillman, John Slaymaker, Warren Stone, Jr., J. H. Simmons, R. W. Simmons, A. Sambola, E. K. Tisdale, Hiram Tomlin,. C. Weingart, T. B. Winston, James White, John W- Wat- THE WASHINGTON ARTILLERY. 405 son, C. S. Wing, J. A. "Walsli, Charles B. Watt, Charles Withan, Willis P. Williams. Drivers. — Joseph Byrnes, James Bayle, John Clayton, Eichard Farrell, William Dooly, Thomas Lynot, Patrick Long, John Leary, Daniel Moore, James Jordan, Sam. J. Davis, Patrick Kelly, Robert Norris, Geo. A. Turner, WilUam White, Thomas Williams, John Young, Michael 'Parrel, John Abbott, Thomas Lace, Hugh McCormick, W. P. Hanley, M. Campbell, J. Devernay, J. E. Daley, J. O'Donnell, G. Gillan, B. O'SuUivan, John Singin, Dan. ShiUin, Jas. Skalaghen, Wm. Tynen, Henry Day, John Haynes. Bugler. — Carl Valanconi. Arriving at Grand Junction, Tennessee, on Monday evening, March 10, 1862, the battery immediately went into camp, under the instruction of Gen. John K. Jackson, Commander of the Post. They were here supplied with their battery horses, and began drilling, and otherwise actively preparing for service. On the 27th day of March, the tents were struck, and the command started over land for Corinth, Mississippi, arriving there on the Ist day of April, 1862, and were immediately assigned to the brigade of Brig.-Gen. Patton Anderson, of Euggles' Division, Bragg's (2d) Army Corps, and went into camp the same day. On Thursday, the 3d day of April, the battery filed out through the fortifications with its brigade, and the army, destined for the battle-field of Shiloh. Of the part taken by the battery in the battle of Shiloh, the following is the official report of Captain Hodgson : ^- 408 THE WASHINGTON ARTILLERY. Head-quarters Fifth Co., Bat. Washington Artillery, Camp Moore, Corinth, Miss., April 9, 1862. To Bkig.-Gen. Patton Anderson, Commanding Second Brigade, Rug- gles' Division, Army Miss: : — General: — In accordance with usage, I hereby report to you the "action " of my battery, in the battles of the 6th and 7th instant. My battery, consisting of two 6-pounder smooth-bore guns, two 6- pounder rifled guns, and two 12-pounder howitzers, — total, 6 piec_es, fully equipped with ammunition, horses, and men, entered the field, just in the rear of Twentieth Louisiana regiment (the right regiment of your brigade), on Sunday morning, the 6th inst., on the hill, overlooking from tlie south-west the encampments of the enemy immediately to the front of it and to the north-east, being the first camp attacked and taken by our army. At 7 o'clock A.M., we opened fire on their camp, with our full battery of six guns, firing shell and spherical case shot, soon silencing one of their batteries, and filling the enemy with consternation. After firing some forty (40) roAnds thus, we were directed by Gen. Euggles to shell a camp immediately upon the left of the one mentioned, and in which there was a battery, from which the shot and shell were thrown on all sides of us. With two howitzers and two rifled guns, under Lieuts. Slocomb and Vaught, assisted by two pieces from Capt. Sharp's battery, we soon silenced their guns, and had the gratification of seeing our brave and gallant troops charge through these two camps, running the enemy before them at the point of the bayonet. At this point I lost your_ command, and on the order of General Bug- gies to " go where I heard most firing," I passed over the first camp captured, through a third, and on to a fourth, in which your troops were doing sad havoc to the enemy. I formed in battery on your extreme left, in the avenue of the camp, and commenced firing with canister from four (4) guns, into the tents of the enemy, only fifty (50) yards ofl". It was at this point I suffered most. The skirmishers of the enemy lying in their tents, only a stone's throw from 11S, cut holes through their tents near the ground, and played a deadly fire in among my cannoneers, killing three men, wounding seven or eight, besides killing some of our horses, mine among the rest. As TSE WASHINGTON ARTILLERY. 407 soon as we were well formed in battery, anil got well to work, we saw them creeping from their tents and making for the woods, and imme- diately afterwards saw your column charge the whole of them in ambush, and put them to flight. A visit through that portion of their camp, at a subsequent hour, satisfied me, from the number of the dead, and the nature of their wounds, that my battery had done its duty. Losing you again at this point, on account of the heavy brushwood through which you charged, I was requested, by Gen. Trudeau, to plant two guns farther down the avenue, say two hundred yards ofi", to shell a fifth camp farther on, which I did, and, after firing a dozen or more shells, had the satisfaction of seeing the cavalry charge the camp, put- ting the enemy to flight — killing many, and capturing many wounded prisoners. Being again without a commanding general, and not knowing your exact position, I received and executed orders from Gen. Hardee and his aid. Col. Kearney, also from Col. Chisholm of Gen. Beauregard's staff, and in fact from other aids, whose names I do not know, going to points threatened and exposed, and where firing was continual, rendering cheerfully all the assistance I could with my battery, now reduced in men and horses. At about 2 o'clock P.M., at the instance of Gen. Hardee, I opened from the fifth camp we had entered, firing upon a sixth camp, due north ; silencing the battery and driving the enemy from their tents. Said portion of the army of the enemy were charged and their battery capt- ured — afterwards lost asain — by the Guard Orleans and other troops on our left, under Col. Preston Pond, Jr. This was about the last firing of my battery on the 6th instant. Taking the main road to Pittsburg Landing, we followed on the heels of our men, after a retreating and badly whipped army, until within three- fourths of a mile of the Tennessee river, when the enemy began to shell the wopds from their gunboats. Gen. Euggles ordered us to the enemy's camp, where we bivouacked for the night. I received orders on the morning of the 7th, at about 5.30 o'clock, to follow your command with my battery, and at 6 o'clock, being ready to move, could not ascertain your position — so took position on the extreme right of our army, supported by the Crescent regiment of 408 THE WASHINGTON ARTILLERY. Col. Pond's brigade, in our rear, and an Arkansas regiment on my front, and I think the Twenty-first Tennessee regiment on my left flant ; all under Gen. Hardee, for in fact he seemed to be the master-spirit, giving all orders and seeing that they were properly executed. At about 9 o'clock. Gen. Breckenridge's command, on our extreme front, had pushed the enemy up and on to within several hundred yards of our front, when we opened fire with shell and shot with our full battery ; after firing some seventy (70) rounds, we took position farther on, just on the edge of the open space ahead, and with our full battery, assisted by two pieces from McClung's battery, we poured some sixty (60) rounds into the enemy, who continued to advance upon ns, when Col. Marshall J. Smith, of the Crescent regiment, gallantly came to our rescue, charging the enemy at the poinfof the bayonet, putting them to flight, and saving our three extreme right pieces, which would have been captured but for them. It was at this point I again met with some losses. Lieut. Slocomb, Sergt. Green, several privates, and many horses fell at this point, either killed or badly wounded. After the enemy had retreated well in the woods, I had my guns limbered and taken from the field. My men broken down, my horses nearly all slain, ammunition out, and sponges all broken and gone, I was in the act of making repairs and preparing for another attack, when I was ordered by Gen. Beauregard to retire in order to Monterey, which I did that evening, and afterwards to this point, arriving last evening with my battery all complete with the exception of three (3) caissons, a battery-wagon, and forge, which I had to abandon on the road for want of fresh horses to draw them in. At the request of Gen. Beauregard, I detailed from my command twelve men under a non-commissioned officer, to remain and act with Capt. Byrne's (or Burns') battery, on a prominent hill on the Pea Ridge road, overlooking the battle-field, to cover the retirement of our army. They all came in to-day, safe and sound. We captured two stands of United States colors, which were handed over to Gen. Beauregard ; we also captured several United States horses and mules. I cannot close this report without again calling to your favorable notice the names of my Lieuts. Slocomb, Vaught, and Chalaron, for THE WASHINGTON' ARTILLERY. 409 their coolness and bravery on the field. Their conduct was daring and gallant, and worthy of your consideration. I have the honor to be, Yours, very truly, W. IRVING HODGSON, Captain. The following is the supplementary report of Capt. Hodgson : — Head-quarters Fifth Co., Bat. Washington Artillery, Camp Moore, Corinth, Miss., April 11, 1862. To Capt. Wm. G. Berth, Acting Asst. Adjutant-General : — Captain, — I herewith tender to you a supplemental report, in regard to matters connected with the battles of the 6th and 7th instant. My battery fired during said actions, from the six guns, seven hundred and twenty-three (723) rounds, mostly from the smooth-bore guns and the howitzers, a large proportion of which was canister. Some of our ammunition-chests, being repacked from a captured caisson, and other can- ister borrowed from Capt. Robertson's battery, which he kindly loaned. The badly torn wheels and carriages of my battery from minie balls, will convince any one of the close proximity to the enemy in which we were. I had twenty-eight (28) horses slain in the battery, exclusive of officers' horses. I cannot refrain from applauding to you, the gallant actions of the rank and file of my command, all of whom behaved so gallantly on these occasions, that it would be invidious to mention names ; sufiSce it, they all remained, at their posts during the action, and behaved most gallantly ; many of them, for the first time under fire, conducted them- selves as veterans. I have the honor to be, Yours, very truly, W. IRVING HODGSON, Captain. In connection mth the battle of Shiloh , the following extracts are- taken from the official report of Gen. Daniel Euggles, Commanding Division, 2d Corps : — 410 TBE WASHINGTON ARTILLERY. The "WasMngton Artillery, under Capt. Hodgson, was then brought forward, and two howitzers and two rifled guns commanded by Lieut. Slocomb, and two guns under Maj. Hoop were put in position on the crest of a ridge near an almost impenetrable boggy thicket, ranging along our front, and opened a destructii* fire in response to the enemy's batteries then sweeping our lines at long range. I also sent orders to Brig.-Gen. Anderson to advance rapidly with his Second brigade, and as soon as he came up, I directed a charge against the enemy, in which some of the Sixth Mississippi and Second Tennessee joined ; at the same time I directed other troops to move rapidly by the right to. turn the enemy's position beyond the swamp, and that the field artillery fol- low as soon as masked by the movement of the infantry. Under these movements, vigorously executed, after a spirited contest, the enemy's whole line gave way, and our advance took possession of the camp and batteries against which the charge was made. The enemy's camps on our left being apparently cleared, I endeav- ored to concentrate forces on his right flank in his new position, and directed Capt. Hodgson's battery into action there; the fire of his battery and a charge from the Second brigade, put the enemy to flight. Even after having been driven back from this position, the enemy rallied and disputed the ground with remarkable tenacity for some two or three hours, against our forces in front and his right flank, where cavalry, infantry, and artillery mingled in the conflict. List of killed and wounded at the battles of Shiloh, fought on the 6th and 7th days of April, 1862, in the Fifth Company Washington Artillery. Killed. — 1st Sergeant, John W. Demeritt; 2d Sergeant, Benj. H. Green, Jr. ; ith Sergeant, Wm. B. Gifien ; wounded in leg, suffered am- putation and died; Private, C. J. Hartnett; Drivers, John Leary, Patrick Long, John O'Donnell. Total, 7 killed. Wounded. — 1st Lieutenant C. H. Slocomb, shot in breast ; 2nd Cor- poral, S. Higgins, spent ball in neck ; 6th Corporal, W. L. Bruce, spent ball in side ; 4th C. Corporal, L. Macready, shot in the leg ; 5th C. Cor- poral, Alfred Bellanger, lost left hand ; Privates, Thos. L. Bayne, shot in right arm; J. M. Davidson, shot in thigh; Octave Hopkins, Curtis THE WASHINGTON ARTILLERY. 411 Holmes, Milton McKniglit, wounded; Robert Strong, 'Williara Steven, John W. Watson, John A. Walsh, wounded in leg; Drivers, Jas. Byrnes, Wm. Dooley, Samuel J. Davis, M. Campbell, John Clayton. Total, 20. Killed, 7 ; wounded, 20. Total casualties, 27. After the battle of Shiloh the following men were hon- orably discharged from the service : — Second Lieutenant, Edson L. Hews, resigned ; 6th Cor- poral, W. L. Bruce, doctor's certificate; 5th C. Corporal, Alfred Bellanger, wounds received ; Privates, T. L. Bayne, wounds received ; W. TV. Clayton, doctor's certificate ; J. M. Davidson, wounds received ; J. M. Seixas, by order of Gen. Bragg ; Robert Strong, wounds received ; Middleton Eastman, by order of Gen. Bragg ; John A. Walsh, wounds received ; C. S. Wing, H. H. Lonsdale, doctor's certifi- cate. The resignation of Lieut. Ed. L. Hews having' been accepted. Gen. Bragg attached to the battery J. M. Seixas, and appointed him Lieutenant in the Fifth com- pany, to fill vacancy. EVACTJATION OP CORINTH, MISS. On the 30th day of May, 1862, the army of the Mis- .sissippi evacuated Corinth, the Fifth company Washington Artillery, with its brigade, covering the retreat of the army. The retrograde movement began at about 8 o'clock P.M., continuing during that night, and by 3 o'clock A.M., the last of the troops had passed through the town, on their way to Tupelo, Miss., via Clear Creek, a point about forty miles south of Corinth, which latter place they 412 THE WASHINGTON ARTILLERY. readied on the morning of June the 1st, and immediately went into temporary camp. The enemy did not pursue the retreating Confederate army more than ten or fifteen miles south of- Corinth, and, finding the Confederate forces ready to give battle, they returned to Corinth and went into camp. On the 5th day of June, ascertaining that the Federal army Avould not pursue or risk a further engagement in this vicinity, the Confederate army, now under the com- mand of Gen. Braxton Bragg, determined to change their base to Chattanooga, Tenn.,for a resumption of hostilities, resulting in the Kentucky campaign, — with a view to a long overland march. The army fell back to Tupelo, where there was an abundance of good water and forage, and went into regular camp, preparatory to said move- ment. On the eve of the departure from Clear Creek an order was issued from the head-quarters of the army, that aU officers and men who were unable to march twenty miles a day would go to Okalona, Miss., on surgeon's certificate, into the general hospital at that point, by a special train at 5 o'clock the following morning. It was at this point that Capt. Hodgson, who had been sick and confined to his bed for some days, turned over the command to Lieut. Vaught, as Senior Lieutenant, (1st Lieut. Slocomb, being absent on sick leave, from wounds received at the battle of Shiloh), and went to Okalona. It was while the battery was in camp at Tupelo (June 6, 1862), Capt. Hodgson, then in hospital at Okalona, THE WASHINOTON ARTILLERY. 413 forwarded his resignation to Gen. Bragg, commanding the army, which was accepted, and Lieut. C. H. Slocomb was appointed captain in his stead. Any account of the subsequent history of the Fifth company "could not be given in better phrase than that of Lieut. Chalaron, who, when speaking to a toast to the " Wa,shington Artillery, Army of Tennessee," at the re- union of the battalion, held May 27, 1882, to celebrate the twenty-first anniversary of the departure of the first four companies to Virginia, said : — Tupelo is reached, and Slocomb now commands. Suffering is forgotten in recuperation and drilling. Bragg himself acknowledges the Fifth unexcelled in drill, even by his famous battery. With Adams's brigade we march into Kentucky. Munfordsville is captured, and Perryville is fought. The " White Horse Battery" is known to friend and foe thereafter; and clamorous and enthusiastic recognition salutes it, in the streets of Harrodsburg, from the army passing in retreat. Those shouts shall ever ring in the ears of its survivors. Through Cumberland Gap, half starving and worn, retreating steps now take us to Knoxville's snow-clad fields. We meet the first blasts of a winter campaign. Our tents are finally pitched, in winter- quarters, on Harpeth's frozen banks, where Rosecrans so rudely dis- turbed us at Christmas eve. Murfreesboro follows, and Vaught com- mands; and whether supporting Hardee's crushing blow upon the enemy's right, or holding the pivot of the position, or rushing madly in that deadly charge, when Breckenridge, in grand array and stern devo- tion, dashed for those heights across Stone river, the Washington Artillery won, on that field, the highest praise that soldiers could expect ; and Anthony and Eeid are left to mark its passage. Vicksburg is sore beset, and Johnston calls, and Breckenridge is going ; the Fifth com- pany ask to follow. Mobile, in passing, gives us new recruits, as, rush- ing through, we hurry on to Jackson. But Vicksburg falls 'ere we can cross the Big Black ; and Sherman tries to intercept, but strikes us only 414 THE WASHINGTON ARTILLERY. in our works at Jackson. Four stands of colors lie amid a thousand killed and wounded before the muzzles of Cobb's and Slocomb's guns. Bragg calls in turn and Breckenridge is sent. The Fifth is pushed to Rome and Chattanooga. The echoes of the first gjins salute them on arrival. We strike at Glass's Mill, and plunging through the Chicka- mauga, leave on its banks a holocaust of dead. 'Tis Blair meeting a fate he had just predicted, and Morel, and Anderson, and Belsom, and Bailey, and Daigle ! We lay them shrouded in their blankets, and move to strike else- where. Morning finds us on the right ; Breckenridge turns the Federal left ; we cut them off from Chattanooga. Astride the road, we save the day till Liddell can be brought up ; and Graves has fallen in our midst, and bending over him Breckenridge laments his loss. Around him lie Brocard and Bayle, and Eeichert, and Duggan, and Stakeman, and Greenwood, and Woods, with shattered carriages and crushed guns, that show what fire we took unflinchingly, while pouring canister alone upon their charging lines. Breckenridge thanks us on the field. To replace Blair, Johnsen now stands promoted. , And Chickamauga's victory leads us but to Missionary Ridge. Dis- sensions and rivalries have brought about defeat. The Fifth, unmoved, indignant, and devoted, their battery sacrificed, seize the first guns abandoned in their rear, and with Austin's help check the enemy and save the bridge. Joe Johnston comes, and Dalton's cantonments ring with joy. With spring, Sherman attempts the portals of the pass ; and Rockyface and Buzzard's Roost repel him to Snake Gap. Eesaca finds us in the thick- est fray ; and on that hill, from which we.bore Simmons and Stuart, and in that pen, where Russell fell and found a grave beneath the cannon's trail, the Fifth company never showed more coolness, more valor, nor more fortitude. In quick succession come Calhoon, Adairsville, Kings- ton, and Cassville's lost opportunity. The Etowah is crossed. Dallas and New Hope Church claim more precious lives. 'Tis McGregor, 'tis Winston, 'tis Beggs, 'tis Mathis, 'tis Billy Sewell, with his la:st breath whispering into Slocomb's ear, "Captain, haven't I done my duty?" Can Pine Mountain and Kennesaw Ridge ever be forgotten? — those long days of constant fighting, those nights of sleepless vigilance and re- TBM WASHINGTON ARTILLERY. 415 curring labor, those works uncarried, where Barrail fell and Staub received his death wound. At rest for once, since leaving Dalton, we find ourselves beyond the Chattahooehie ; for Johnston waits to strike his crossing foe. But 'tis for us that comes the shock, and the Fifth company weep at the re- moval of Old Joe. Soon Peach Tree Creek recalls us to our work, and, in resisting its passage, we lose Legare, and Percy, and Kicketts. Le- gare, who begged "for one more shot at them," and fell with Percy, torn and mangled, before he could get it. First on tlie right, then through the siege, the Fifth company battles for Atlanta, till Hood must leave, for Jonesboro is gone, and Hardee's heroic corps can stand the pressure no longer. Here Frazer, Vincent, Delery, find their death, and alsp that unrecorded priest who followed us into battle. And now 'tis on to Nashville. In snow we move from Florence to the task, ill clad, and badly shod. • Columbia is taken, and Franklin's ditches are made level with Confederate dead. Bates's division is thrown toward Murfreesborough. At Overall Creek it is Leverich's canister saving us from destruction, and riderless horses sweep in line of battle through our intervals to the rear. Siebrecht is buried on the field. The morrow finds us attacking with Forrest, and yielding lines place the enemy in our rear. We lose two guns in running the gauntlet of their fire. On that sad day Bennett is laid beneath the snow. Nashville follows, and after the defeat we spike our guns and cut down our carriages, no roads of escape being left. And now comes that ter- rible retreat, in the heart of winter, where snow-beaten paths are red- dened by the blood of our soldiers' shoeless feet. "We ford Shoal Creek on that bleak Christmas-day, and drop exhausted when the Tennessee is reached. The Fifth company lost no men by straggling, yet, on the banks of that river, of its numbers, there stood in ranks 43 barefooted and half-clad men. Mobile is threatened, and we go to her defense, joining again our Louisiana brigade. They swear to capture the first enemy's battery met, that the Washington Artillery may be refitted. In Spanish Fort we stand a siege of fourteen days with Gibson, and are the last to spike our guns that night of evacuation. Rescued from out the sea marsh of Blakeley river the Fifth company is in Mobile again, where Mcllhenny and Miller had preceded them to be buried. This siege has fitly crowned 416 THE WASEINOTON ARTILLERY. our military experience. The town is doomed. We march away, as light artillery, refitted and complete. The end has come when Lee's surrender is announced. Our own soon follows. "We furl our flag in tears, and Slocomb leads us home to weep- ing households, desolated firesides, and ruined estates. Such is the hurried report of the services of the Fifth company. In their performance, soldiers never showed more courage, moice endurance, more reliability, more cheerfulness, more discipline, more devotion, more fortitude. Ever ready, ever complete, in equipment and numbers, their horses superbly kept, ambitious of distinction, they were always at the front, on the breach, in active service ; ever steady and resolute, however went the day, no danger could move, and no disaster could dismay them. In the annals of the Army of Tennessee they bear a proud name among the proudest. To the battalion's fanre they bring a harvest of laurels, won through the most trying and bloody campaigns of our great war. To the battalion flag they add the names of over forty battles, as desperate, as sanguinary, as ever fought. On our monumental shaft and roll of honor they have inscribed the names of fifty heroes, as pure, as gallant, as devoted, as ever died in a sacred cause. They have made the "Washington Artillery the only organization, as legendary with the troops of the Army of Ten- nessee as it is with the troops of the Army of Northern Virginia. And the rivalry is not ended ; they will push it in perpetuating the present organization, that our sons and latest descendants may belong to it, and proudly say, " Our fathers made the name of the Washington Artillery famous in the cause of the South on every battle-field of the Confeder- acy." And, admonished by the untimely fate of so many of our comrades who survived our campaigns, and since have fallen in the battle of life, shall I not take advantage of this occasion to speak to you, representa- tives of the survivors of the Fifth company, here in the presence of your brothers of Virginia? Can I refrain from calling upon you, boys of the Fifth company, to rise that I may say to them, "Here stand the remnants of 380 men, who carried the banner of the Washington Artillery, in equal glory and devotion with you? " Can I refrain from thanking you for your unfailing confidence and devotion to your officers ; from expressing to you their feelings of admiration and love ; from telling TEE WASHINGTON ARTILLERY. All you that they drew courage, energy, their reward, their pride, from your gallant acts, your heroic bearing, your friendly approbation? Boys of the Fifth company, the spirits of Slocomb, Vaught, and Blair at this moment marshal our brave " who roam enfranchised," and reecho my words, rejoicing at this first reunion of the Fifth and its brothers of Virginia ! May God bless you ! At the second reunion of the Battalion the same officer gave an idea of the spirit of the Fifth company, in his reply to the toast to them, in the following words : — Comrades, — Having responded at our first reunion for the Wash- ington Artillery, Army of Tennessee, I did not expect to have bestowed upon me a like distinction on this occasion. The glorious company that is toasted could well have furnished from among its veterans many who would have better fulfilled the pleasing duty. At your call, however, I take up the theme with a heart overflowing with proud recollections, and untiring in its admiration and love for the Fifth company. And how shall I portray it to you ? From its years of service, its life in camp, its record on the battle-field, what traits shall I select; what episodes shall I recount? DifBcult is the choice, and I hope you will bear with me if my remarks are not merely postprandial, but bring you into more intimate acquaintance with your brothers of Tennessee, and fix in our common records facts and episodes that otherwise might pass away. Reunions like this are doubly useful, when from attending survivors aught has been drawn that illustrates the battalion's history or redounds to its fame. And now, from memory's camping-ground, let me bring all my boys to the front. Here they come, as of yore, youthful, gay, dashing, determined, daring, heroic; yielding to discipline, impatient of inaction, uncomplain- ing under trials and hardships, superior to fatigue, of unfailing cheer- fulness, and unsurpassed in fortitude. I hear their jokes, their bragging about sections and detachments (the outgrowth of an esprit de corps, 418 THE WASHINGTON' ARTILLERY. that made all Tie to have their battery the best in the service, nnd their respective sections and detachments the best in the battery). I hear their camp songs — their glee club on tlie march, on that in Georgia especially — when, under the shades of night we stole away from uncar- ried and bloody works. Weary steps were quickened by the cadence of their voices (the only music allowed to break the stillness of the night) as the column moved to take anotlier line of battle for the morrow. I see them at Jackson gathered around the piano, saved, with chival- rous intent, from that stately nliinsion whicli war's necessities compelled us to destroy as Lauman's division charged upon our works. 'Tis Andy Swain who holds the keys, and grouped about Mm stand the boys singing, in jolly chorus, " You shan't have any of my Pea- nuts." Our redbubt is on the Jackson Railro.ad looking toward New Orleans ; the piano almost touches the guns ; traverses of cotton bales protect our flank ; some bales are on tlie parapet. The music has drawn officers and men of other commands, who hang outside the group. Gen. Adams lends his ear from his head-quarters established with us for tlie corailug fray. Above all, the piano absorbs each mind. Far across the fields in front appears a heavy skirmish line ; then comes the line of battle ; another and another still. Briskly they move upon us, pressing in our skirmishers. Ned Austin, witli his sharp-shooters, takes refuge beliind our works and stands beside our battery as its support. Near and more near comes the foe. The order rings to man the guns ; the piano's notes are hushed, that deeper and more thrilling ones may now be sounded. Our Maj. Graves is on the parapet, like some grand orchestral leader, and, when the lines are close enough, commands our fire to be opened. And there he stands until tlie cnd,'with voice and gesture urging us to " Fire low, boys." Still, on they come, looming up tlirough the dust our shrieking canister has raised, as it tears its way in ricochets across the field. Now, they are upon us almost j but our doubled charges hurl in their faces a storm of iron that nothing mortal can withstand. Down go their lines ; we know the day is ours. " Cease firing " comes from Graves, as o'er the works our infantry .spring to finish them. They yield ; and those who marched so boldly up can now be seen breaking in flight to the rear. 'Tis over; witli a rusll the piano is sought again. Not twenty minutes have sped since its last notes have died away. A thousand men have lost life or limbs, or, THE VASffTXGTOX ASTTLLSBr. 419 Tiithing, hare been made to lie sronnd four Jiar:.l5 of colors on that sv^rr field, between its tuneful sonmls ; for now they rise abore the din to the strain of '" Oh, let ns be joyful ! " and eveiy heart and every ditoat join in the choms. — as grand a psan as ever mounted to the throne of Heaven. Amid these sonnds of exultation, j r:*oi;rrs and wounded of the foe axe branoht aronnd ns, a\r^ting Gen. Adams's in- tertt^toriei. In xrondennent they look npoa this spectacle of mnsical T^jcHCiiig, and ask irhat manner of men are they vho thus glory in their terrible slangfater. And noir. iriih sadder notes and faces, bnt tvo months later, I see these boys grouped again aj«nnd our loved llsgor. Tis Chickamaugas bloody neld, the second day, and on the right. TTeVe cleared the iray. and Adams's brigsde has chained beyond ns. diivinsr the enemy in the deep recesses of woods in front. TTe stand by smoking gims, planted aen>ss the Chattanooga road. Bandom shots &am nnseen batteries drop th^r shrapnel among us. Our tiviops in front prevent onr firing m letnm. Slocomb and Graves stand motmted side by side. We see them dasp each other, and totter in their saddles. Devoted arms rush to receive fliem. Sli>eomVs hoise is iroiinded, bat Graves himself is jiereed ftom si3e to sije. TTe bear him to the hollow close in rear; and in the shade of its oidy tree, bend aroimd him while the wound is ssti^t. 'TIS mortal, and he feels it. Breckenrid^ arrives, and by his side kneels in toaoMng lamentations. He orders him borne away, for &e tide of battle seems to be driving back against ns. All ppess aroimd to take a last fereweU, and tears are coursing down heroic cheeks be- smeared witfa powder and with smoke, as Graves's hand is grasped. He gives to all, by pressure or by word, a last recognition. And one among ns takes his hand, whose &ce recalls to him some in- cident at Muifreesboro, where in the heat of battle Gisves had mis- judged the soldi^^ action, but since, had generously made amends ; and now the lecoUeetion of this ocoirrence flashes upon Ms aching soul, asd here again, before cs il'. he makes amends anew. " Boys," he tells tis. as we part, '• I know you think that I prefer my old battery to yoirs. Ii is not so. Thereisnoiiethat I admire and love more than yonrs. I wish a detail of your b?y s to cany me oS", and to remain with me until I die." He's honied off. for from th' "Wounded at Petersburg, 1865. . ', ■ ,■ Transferred to'Third Company. Promoted to Corporal, April, 1863; killed at Fredericksburg, May, 1863. Detailed in Montgomery, Alabama.' I '' , Promoted to Sergeant, March, 1862;. to First' Ser- geant, April, 1863; to Second Lieutenant, .'Sep- ■ temberj 1864. ■: ■■ • . .' .<• Caisson ran over his leg, August, 1863 ; retired by Medical Executive Board, October, 1864. Discharged, January, 1862. Wounded at Sharpsburg, September, 1862 ; (died, October, at Winchester. .:'.. . . :■ ' ■■ I I , , , , ■ / Killed at Rappahannock, August, 1862, by explo- sion of his gun. Killed at Bull Run, July, 1861. 440 THE WASHINGTON ARTILLERY. Moran, W. Michel, P. A. J., McRobert, T. M., Mains, W., Micou, A., Marks, H. H. Mathews, J. L., Milhardo, N., Meyers, Joseph, McCormiok, J. McLean, W. J. McCutcheon, J. B., McGehee, W. P. McMillan, J. B. McClellan, H. C, McCorkle, A. G. McRae, W. A., Melntire, C. M. Norment, "W. T., Ogden, E. S., Outlaw, J. "W., Perry, W. P., Payne, J. N., Parson, L. Phelps, N. B., Pendegrass, D. Pollard,^., Peychaud, E. , Peychaud, H., Peychaud, C, Eossiter, C, Rodd, J. E., Ranch, M. Riviere, E., Richardson, John, Reddington, James, Spearing, E. McK., St. Amant, F. A., Saul, W. T. Wounded at Sharpshurg. Discharged, August, 1862. Killed, July, 1864. Promoted to Eirst Lieutenant on Gen. Pry's Staff, May, 1864. Detailed to Med. Dept. B.W.A. Discharged, July, 1862. Detailed to Med. Dept. B.W.A. Wounded at Sharpshurg, lost his arm. Died at Petersburg, November, 1864. Promoted to Corporal, October, 1864. Promoted to Sergeant, April, 1863. Promoted Second Lieutenant First La. ArtUIery, April, 1864. Captured at Gettysburg, July, 1864. Discharged by Medical Board, April, 1864. Promoted to Sergeant, July, 1862 ; transferred to Major Byrne's Batallion Artillery, March, 1864. Detailed, November, 1864. Detailed, November, 1864. Wounded at Drewry's Bluflf, det. in Richmond. Killed at Drewry's Bluff. Detailed by Med. Board. Wounded at Drewry's Bluff; retired by Medical Board, October, 1864. Wounded at Fredericksburg ; detailed. Captured at Gettysburg. Detailed Q.M.D. Killed at Rappahannock, August, 1862. Promoted to Corporal, 1862 ; killed at Fredericks- burg, December, 1862. Discharged, July, 1861 ; disability. ADDENDA. 441 Street, C. N. B., Seibrecht, Ph. Simmons, P. D., Spencer, H. W., Sagee, Frank. Turner, T. S., Turner, S., Tjtrleton, John A., Turpin, J. M. Eowles, "W. E., Villasana, P. de P., Vinson, Van, "Whitcomb, H., "Wiltz, E. v., Walden, C. R., "West, W. H., Wayne, John A. "Webb, J. v., "Wilson, T. J. "Woodward, B. "Woodward, J. P. Wilkinson, H. S. White, J. N., Zebal, H. L., Zebal, L. B., Allain, H. L. Baehr, John. Charlesworth, John. Collins, H. Earls, John, Eshman, John. Parrell, John. Earrell, W. Gallagher, E. Hock, J. L., Hock, M., Hammel, J., Jacobs, J., Kinney, James, Transferred to Moody's Battery, July, 1862y. Killed at Drewry's Bluff, 1864. Died at Point Lookout, a prisoner. Promoted Corporal, 1863. , Promoted Corporal, April, 1864; wounded at Drewry's Bluff. Discharged, July, 1862, special order Secretary War. Killed, railroad accident, March, 1863. Chief Bugler of Battalion. Promoted to Corporal, July, 1863; to Sergeant, April, 1864. : Killed, July, 1864., Discharged. Killed at Drewry's Bluff, May, 1864. Promoted to Corporal, May, 1862; to Sergeant, April, 1863; killed at Eredericksburg, May, 1863. Discharged, May, 1862. Detailed. Discharged by Med. Board, May, 1864. Discharged ; furnished a substitute. Died in hospital. Promoted to Quartermaster Sergeant, Sept., 1864. Detailed in Ord. Department. Discharged, June, 1862 ; Surgeon's certificate. Detailed Medical Department. Died from wound received at Eredericksburg, December, 1862. 442 THE WASHINGTON ARTILLERY. Krafts, John, Lehman, J. S., Lenon, J., Lester, F. McCormick, J. A. McKesson, B. D. F. Norment; J. J-,. O'Neal, J. A., Oliver, William. Rush, Charles, Schmarbeck, F. , Scott, J. Smith,, E.Wi Smith, James. Stewart, S. G. Szar, A. Names Owen, E., Brown, C. H. C, Falkner, W. E., Fell, W. R., Hardie, V. T., Harby, J. R., Kursheedt, E. I., Micou, A., Myers, Jos;, ' Phelps, N. B., Rossiter, C., Turner, T. S., Vinson, Van, Wilson, T. J., Wilkinson, H. S., Zebal, H. L., Charlesworth, John, Rush, C, Detailed to Ordnance Department. Transferred to Second company. Transferred to Secoiid company. . Promoted. to Corporal,. October, 1864; wounded at Drewry's Bluff. Discharged, April, 1864. Transferred to Second company. of Wounded omitted in above Roll. Captain, at Sharpsburg and Drewry's Bluff. Lieutenant, severely wounded, left on the field, and captured at Gettysburg. At Rappahannock and Fredericksburg. At Sharpsburg and Fredericksburg. At Fredericksburg. At Fredericksburg. At Sharpsburg, 1862. ■ '■'- At Fredericksburg, 1862. ■ At Drewry's Bluff.:' At Drewry's Bluff. ' At Fredericksburg and Drewry's Bluff. At Rappahannock Station. At Gettysburg. At Drewry's Bluff. At Drewry's filutf! "' ' " ■ . ■ . At Bull Run and at Williamsport, Md. ' ■ ' ' At Fredericksburg, 1862. '' ' " At Fredericksburg, 1862. The .above statement has , been taken from the Historical Record furnished to the War , Department C.S., January 1, 1865, and is correct, aad as full as can possibly be made from that Record. LiECT. c'. H. C. BROWN,, ' Ranking Officer 1st Go.' B.W. Ai New Orleans, Oct. 2, 1874. ' ADDENDA. 443 EOLL OF SECOND COMPANY. Lewis, C. C, Lieutenant commanding company, May, 1861 ; resigned, August, '1861: Eosser, Thos. L., Captain; promoted to Lieutenant-Colonel of Artil- , , , lery; wounded at Mechanicsville. Eichardson, J. B., Captain; assigned to company, June, 1862. McPherson, Sam. J., First Lieutenant; resigned, August, 1861. Slocomb, Cuthbert H., promoted . to First Lieutenant ; resigned, Norem- , ■ . , ,, ber, 1861. ' • Hawes, Samuel,. ., Second.Lieutenant ; promoted to First Lieutenant, December, 1861. Britton, J. D., Second Lieutenant; wounded at Sharpsburg, September, 1862. DeEussy, Geo. B., Second Lieutenant; promoted from Sergeant First company; wounded at Fredericksburg, May, 1863. Wigfall, F. H., (Cadet) ; relieved from duty with. coilipany, June, 1862, by Order No. 137. DeGrange, Jos. H., First Sergeant, 1861. , Brinsmade, A. A., First Sergeant; promoted to Second Lieutenant ... . , .. . of Artillery. , . -, , Knight, A. G., First Sergeant, 1862. Aime, Gustare, Sergeant. Wood, H. C, Sergeant; discharged, October, 1861, by order of Secretary of War. Hucbezj C., , ,, .Sergeant.. , , lieverich, Charles E., Sergeant.; appointed First Lieutenant P.A.C.S., July, 1863, by order of Secretary of War. Emmett, J. W., Appointed First Lieutenant P.A.C.S., July, 1863, by Secretary of War. Strawbridge.Geo. E., Appointed, Second Lieutenant P.A.C-S., March, ; , , ; 1863;, .by Secretary of War. Eandolph, W. A.„ . .Sergeant; promote^ to Sergeant-Major, Sep- tember, 1863. Hare, Walter J., Sergeant; wounded at Sharpsburg. Fuquaj Thos. Ij[4, i- Sergeant- c .■.■.::■ . < ■■ Edwards, James D., Oorporal ; discjiarged, December, 1861. Button, B. N. L.,i :. Discharged, July, 1861, by order of Gen. Beaure- gard. Hawes, Samuel, Promoteid, Second.Lieutenant, November, 1861. White, T. B., Corporal ; discharged, November, 1862. 444 TEE WASHINGTON ARTILLERY. Hall, Ed. L., Parsons, Jno. W., Meyers, S. Isaac, Jewell, E. J., Chalaron, Stephen, WoodTille, L. C, Promoted to Sergeant, August, 1863 ; wounded at Williamsport, July, 1863. Captured at Gettysburg, July 6; exchanged; promoted to Sergeant, November, 1863. Killed at Petersburg, August, ISei. Wounded at Williamsport, July 6, 1863 ; died at Williamsport, July 19„1863. Wounded at Gettysburg, July, 1863; captured; exchanged; promoted to First Lieutenant in Nit. & Min. Bureau, May, 1864. Wounded at Petersburg, June, 1864. Goodwin.Jno.Howard, Wounded at Drewry'sBluff, May, 1864; promoted to Ordnance Sergeant, June, 1864. Twichell, C. C. Suter, Thos. H. Randolph, J. P. Patton, E. D. Clagett, Phil. A. Woodville, John C. Humphries, G. W. DeMeza, Jos., Q.M. Sergeant. Craig, Leonard, Artificer. Keating, James, Artificer. Dempsey, Jno. W., Artificer, transferred to Third company, June, 1863. PEIVATES. Alewelt, Pred., Aion, Randolph, Augustus, E. D. Alpin, Geo. Almundinger, Wm., Buckner, P. P., Blakeley, A. R., Banister, B. J., Brentford, J. T. Bee, E. M. Brown, James. Wounded at Sharpsburg ; died at Shepardstown, September, 1862. Detailed in Richmond, October, 1862, Killed at Petersburg. Transferred to Fifth regiment, April, 1862. Wounded Second Manassas, August 30, 1863; captured, August, 1863 ; exchanged, and de- tailed in Treasury Department. Wounded at Williamsport, July, 1863 ; captured ; exchanged ; drowned while on furlough, in Mis- sissippi river, February 8, 1864. ' Discharged, October, 1862. ADDENDA. 445 Byrnes, James. Barr, Joe. Brooks, Patrick, Baker, Frank. Bradley, John S., Bloom, John A. Brooks, Henry. Britton, Stephen W. Cleveland, J. B., Curtis, W. P., Coleman, H. D., Clagett, Phil. A., Carey, H. S., Coakley, John A., Cross, J. W. Cantzon, W. H., Clark, N. J. DuTall, C. A., DeValcourt, A. Davis, Wm., Dyer, Theo. O. Dougherty, Charles. DriscoU, Dan. J. Dyer, Thos. W. Florance, W. E. Poreat, Wm., Puqua, Thos. H., Fallon, L. C, Frierson, Geo. A., Freret, Annand, Freret, Jules, Forshee, John H. Francis, Wm. M., Wounded at SharpsbUrg, July, 1863. Promoted Q.M. Sergeant, April, 1861. Transferred from First company, appointed Sec- ond Lieutenant P.A.C.S., March, 1863, by Secretary of War. Discharged. Captured at Chancellorsville, May, 1863; ex- changed. Promoted to Corporal, October, 1863. Detailed in Ordnance Department. Wounded at Williamsport, July, 1863. Wounded at Williamsport, July, 1863; died August, 1863. . Detailed clerk, Ge Miller, Merritt B., Hero, Andrew, Jr., Whittington, Jos. B., Adam, Louis A., Bearing, James, Garnet, J. J., Brewer, Isaac W., McElroy, Frank, McNeill, George, Stocker, Charles H., Handy, John T., Frados, Louis, ROLL OF THIRD COMPANT. Captain, May, 1861 ; promoted to Major of Ar- tillery, February, 1864. Second Sergeant, May, 1861 ; First Sergeant, November, 1861 ; Second Lieutenant, May, 1862 ; First Lieutenant, August, 1862 ; Captain, February, 1864 ; wounded at Sharpsburg, Sep- tember, 1862 ; at Petersburg, April, 1865. First Lieutenant, resigned, 1861. Second Lieutenant, resigned, August, 1861 ; re- enlisted as private, August, 1862. Second Lieutenant ; promoted to Captain of Artil- lery, April 8, 1862. First Lieutenant; assigned to Company, July, 1861 ; promoted Major of Artillery, 1862. First Lieutenant; killed at Rappahannock Station. First Lieutenant. Second Lieutenant. Second Lieutenant; wounded at Petersburg, April, 1865. First Sergeant. Sergeant ; promoted to Lieutenant La. Brigade. ADDENDA. 449 Collins, W. A., Maxwell, Robert, Ellis, W. H., DeBlanc, 0. N., Coyle, W. G., Kremelberg, F., Pettis, P. W., Jewell, Ed. J., Peale, A. H., Portier, C. E., Morgan, E. "W., Many, E. P., Leefe, "W., Grimmer, A. E., Bartlett, N., Ballantine, T., Bland, Samuel, Ballauf, R., Cantrelle, M. B., Dicls, I. C, Porter, John R., Phelps, H. J., Collins, William A., Sergeant. Sergeant. Sergeant. Sergeant. Sergeant. Sergeant; killed at Petersburg. Sergeant. Corporalv Corporal. Corporal; discharged. Corporal. Corporal ; killed at Fredericksburg, May, 1863. Corporal ; died in Louisiana Hospital. Corporal. Corporal. Corporal. Corporal. Corporal. Corporal. • Corporal. Corporal. ' Corporal. Corporal ; wounded at Second Manassas, August, 1863. PRIVATES. Avril, E., Anderson, John, Atkins, Henry J., Andress, Frank M. Adde, J. A. Andress, S. S. Bruce, Robert, Boush, Samuel C, Blanchard, J. D., Bloomfield, James C. Becnel, Michel A., Bernard, George, Burke, M. Benton,. J. P. , Bland, Samuel, Behan, James S., Corporal; wounded at Sharpsburg, September, ■1862 ; discharged, December, 1862. Transferred from First company, July, 1861. Killed at Sharpsburg, September, 1862. Discharged, April, 1864. On duty in Quartermaster's Department. Died, March, 1864. .Promoted to Lieutenant in Magruder's army. Discharged, December, 1861, by order of Secre- tary of War. Detailed with ambulance. Captured by enemy, June, 1864. Wounded at Rappahannock, August, Died at Mobile, AJa. 1862. 450 THE WASHINGTON ARTILLERY. Barton, Wm. Bloom, Jos. Ballauf, Rudolph, Brady, Geo. Behan, Geo. B., Bush, C, Beyer, Ernest. Brady, Charles. Brooks, Henry G. Benton, Jolm H., Bryens, Geo. H., Berry, Lawrence. Bryens, Richard. Brewer, Wm. P., Bryan, B. F. Ball, Robert J., Burke, Steve. Carl, F. A., Cloney, M. W., Colles, John H., Charpieux, Ernest, Coyle, W. G., Casey, Wm., Crilly, James, Coyle, Frank E., Campbell, W. Charlton, Geo. W. Cressy, L. W., Clark, Edward A. Charlton, W. W. Collins, T. S. Clark, J. F., Deacon, C. W., DeMeza, Jos. H., Duncan, Edward, Douber, Fred., Promoted to Corporal, April, 1864. Died at Culpeper, September, 1862. Injured by falling of a tree, October, 1862. tailed in Richmond. De- Wounded at Petersburg, September, 186i ; died, September, 1864. Killed at Gettysburg, July, 1863. Promoted to. Assistant Surgeon. Transferred to First company. Died, May 27, 18fil. Wounded at Sharpsburg, September, 1862 ; cap- tured at Gettysburg, July, 1863. Discharged, November, 1861, by order Secretary of War. Wounded at Manassas, August, 1862; detailed Q.M. Dept., April, 1864. Promoted to Corporal, November, 1861 ; to Ser- geant, October, 1863. ♦ Transferred from Second company, July, 1861. Transferred from Second company, wounded at Rappahannock Station, August, 1862. Wounded at Gettysburg, July, 1863 ; killed at Petersburg, April, 1865. Killed by falling of a tree at Winchester. Killed at Gettysburg, July, 1863. Transferred to First company. Transferred to Second company, July, 1861. Captured at Petersburg and e.xchanged. Killed at Sharpsburg. ADDENDA. 451 Davis, J. F. Dumas, A. Dolan, James, DeBlanc, August. Dick, Isaac C, Dietz, H. Diclc, Benj. E., DeBlanc, Armand, Dennison, W. DeLacy, Wm. Doussan, Honor4. Dupre, Adolph, Jr., Elfer, Louis G. Evans, Edgar D. Eazende, P. 0. Fortier, Charles E., Eourshee, F. P., Fuqua, T. H., Frank, Otto, Paisans, Ilen6. Paisans, Auguste. Guyot, Louis E. Grimmer, A. E., Gras, Fred. "W. Gore, Jno. W. Gretter, J. B. Gough, C. A., Givens, S. R., Gerard, Leon M. Gerard, Philibert. Grimes, G. A. Guillote, Henry. Hubbard, P. L., Hart, C, Holmes, John, Jr., Huisson, John. Hottinger, John G. Hubbell, Ed. D. Jones, Wm. Johnson, "Wm. N. Joubert, Eugene, Died from wound at Rappahannock. Promoted to Corporal, October, 18C4. Captured at Fredericksburg and exchanged. Discharged, May, 1863. Wounded and captured at Gettysburg. Promoted to Corporal, July, 1861; discharged, September, 1861. Wounded at Rappahannock. Transferred to Second company. Wounded at Fredericksburg. Wounded at Fredericksburg; promoted to Cor- poral, November, 1863. Wounded at Gettysburg, and died. Discharged, January, 1863. Right arm injured, and discharged, October, 1861. Discharged, February, 1862. Wounded at Sharpsburg, and discharged. May, 1864. Wounded at Rappahannock, and died. 452 THE WASBINOTON ARTILLERY. Jagot, Jos. H. Jourdan, F. Jones, John, Kinslow, Joseph. Kennedy, S., Kerwin, Thos. Koblenr, Daraas, Kitchen, W. H. Kitchen, K. H. Kent, M. Leefe, Wm., Loftus, Ed., Lynch, M. P. Little, James, Leytze, G., Levy, S., Luddy, J. T. Land, John. Land, Geo. Leclere, Gustave. Leclere, Eugene. Lombard, Charles, Lazarre, T., Labarre, Murrille, Labarre, E., Labarre, Lacestiere, Laresche, P. B. Leefe, A., Lighthouse, N. McFall, T. M., McDonald, O., McCartney, J. H., Moore, J. H., Mills, W., Morgan, E. W., lyiaxwell, Robert, Martin, A. B. Meek, G. H., Marmillon, C. B., Captured and escaped, July, 1864. Bugler. Transferred to Twenty-eighth Louisiana regi- ment; resigned, 1864. Wounded at Petersburg, October, 1864. Promoted Corporal, April, 1863; died, October, 1864. Died, February, 1863. Died, June, 1862. Missing after battle of Gettysburg. Wounded at Rappahannock ; discharged, Septem- ber, 1862. Transferred to Fourth company, June, 1863. Died at Petersburg, December, 1864. Died at Petersburg, December 31, 1864. Discharged, October, 1863. Transferred from First company, September, 1863. Wounded at Drewry's Bluff. Promoted to Q.M. Sergeant, April, 1863. Killed at Rappahannock. Wounded at Sharpsburg. Transferred to Seventh brigade. Transferred to Second company. Discharged, July, 1861. Promoted to Sergeant, November, 1861 ; wounded at Rappahannock, and discharged, 1863. Promoted to Ord. Serg., November, 1863. Discharged, 1862, by Secretary of War. ADDENDA. 453 Massy, G. W., Murphy, John C. Madden, Henry A., Mahen, E. L. Noyes, S. "W. Norcom, Albert, Nesbitt, J. S., Noyes, L. T. IsToble, W. P. Nulty, T. Ozanne, F., Pettis, Peyton W., Porter, Jno. E:, Phelps, H. J., Philips, Abraham B. Peirce, Geo. A. Patin, Paul T. Price, James W. Pinckard, "Wm. F. , Pinckard, Wm. M. iRussell, C. P. Rousseau, Samuel, Randolph, J. F., Raymond, Charles. Eideau, H., Ruleau, F., Riviere, E. Rousseau, Jules A. A. Robinson, G. D., Shaw, Frank, Jr., Stocker, Chas. H., Saunders, S. G., Smith, Charles,. Seicshnaydre, A. Seicshnaydre, Leon. Slade, S. B. Smelser, C. G. Smith, T. W. Wounded at Sharpsburg ; died, September, 1862. Killed at Drewry's Bluff, May, 1864. Transferred to Fourth company. Discharged, May, 1862. Captured and escaped at Hagerstown, 1863. Promoted Corporal, July, 1862 ; wounded at Rap- pahannock and Sharpsburg; promoted Ser- geant, 1864. Promoted, Corporal, August, 1864; wounded at Petersburg, October, 1864. Corporal, April, 1863; wounded at Fredericks- burg, 1862. Wounded at Petersburg, 1864. Wounded at Petersburg. Transferred to Second company. Killed at Gettysburg. Wounded and died at Gettysburg. Severely wounded, July, 1863. Discharged by Secretary of War. ProraotM Corporal, June, 1862; Sergeant, July, 1862; captured at Gettysburg, July, 1863; Second Lieutenant, March, 1864. Wounded at Sharpsburg. Captured at Petersburg, Jung, 1864. 454 THE WASHINGTON ARTILLERY. Smith, E. Summers, -H. D., Toledano, Wm. S., Toledano, E., Tully, Howard, Turnell, Ralph, Thompson, Hugh, Tully, James, Thomas, G. J. Tew, Walter A. Tisdale, Victor R. Treme,, John. Toledano, Oswald J., Vidal, Ernest. White, J. W. Williamson, Thos. E. Williamson, W. Watson, W. J. B., White, J. N., Dempsey, J. W., Pielert, Geo. Holmes, W. D., Nugent, Tom. Keating, James, Transferred to Second company. Discharged, September, 1861. Discharged, September, 1861. Wounded at Bull Bun and Predericksburg. Discharged, November, 1862. Killed at Rappahannock. Wounded at Rappahannock. Killed at Petersburg, 1864. Transferred to- Eourth company. Transferred to Fourth company. Transferred to Second company. Transferred to Second company. Transferred to Second company. The above roll is copied correctly from the historical records of the Third company of the Washington Artillery, and contains all details as to members of the company. A. HERO, Je., Late Capt. Commanding 3d Co. B. W.A. ROLL OF FOURTH COMPANY. Eshleman, S. F., Captain, 1861; wounded at Bull Run; Major, 1862. Norcom, Jos., First Lieutenant, 1861 ; Captain, 1862; wounded at Gettysburg. Battles, H. A., Second Lieutenant, 1861; First Lieutenant, 1862; wounded at Fredericksburg. Apps, George E., Sergeant, 1861; Second Lieutenant, 1861; First Lieutenant, 1862. Behan, W. J., First Sergeant, 1861 ; Second Lieutenant, 1863. Reynolds, Joshua D., Sergeant, 1861; killed at Manassas, 1861. ADDENDA. 455 Dearie, James W., Fish, John S., Moore, Robt. F. F., Gray, K. H., Wood, John C, Banksmith, Ansel, Stewart, T. Jones, "Wilcox, John W., Weidler, B. Frank, Valentine, Jno. B., Haile, Sylvester T., Lesoene, Joseph W., Wood, George W., Brodie, Fred A., Hufft, Bernard, Babcock, O.' S., Lilly, James F., Montgomery, George Ames, Fred W., McDonald, R. G., Burke, R. S., Adams, Chas. L., Lewis, L. L., Sergeant, 1861 ; discharged. Sergeant, 1861 ; first Sergeant, 1863. Sergeant, 1861. Sergeant, 1861. Corporal; Sergeant, 1861; wounded at Fredericks- burg, 1862; discharged. Sergeant; wounded at Fredericksburg, 1862. Sergeant ; First Lieutenant Cavalry, 1864. Sergeant. Sergeant. Sergeant ; wounded at Drewry's Bluff, 1864. Q.M. Sergeant. Corporal ; wounded at Gettysburg, 1863 ; captured by enemy; appointed cadet, 1864. Corporal* Corporal. Corporal ; wounded at Gettysburg, 1863. Corporal. Corporal. Corporal. Corporal. Corporal ; killed at Drewry'a Bluff, 1864. Corporal. Corporal ; promoted and discharged, 1863. Corporal ; mortally wounded at Chancellorville. Adams, Joseph. Allen, J. S. Anderson, George, Baker, H. H., Baker, Page M., Baker, J. McR. Baker, Lewis H., Bateman, Charles, Beach, William, Bee, Eugene M., Beck, George M., Behan, Frank A. Bier, C. C. Borland, James. Burke, Joseph W. Burke, R. S., Boucher, Alexander, Wounded at Chancellorsville, 1863. Wounded at Bull Bun, 1861. Promoted '; transferred to Navy. Discharged by order of Secretary of War. Wounded and captured at Gettysburg, 1868. Transferred to Navy, 1863. Discharged. Transferred to Second company. Discharged, 1861. Wounded at Manassas, 1862. Wounded at Gettysburg and captured. 456 TEE WASHINGTON ARTILLERY. Byrne, C. M. Callahan, L. P., Cannon, John, Carey, Thomas. Carey, William. Chastant, John B., Chapman, M. B., Clayton, L. W. Cook, Edwin 0. Cowand, Alfred S. Cowand, Charles. Cox, I. M., Conden, Edmund, Creecy, W. Pryor, Cronan, Dennis. Caldwell, I., Crutcher, George L., Cummings, Thomas, Curley, William. Davis, Robert N. Davidson, Robert. Dennison, W. Dirke, W. R. Duval, C. A. Edwards, James D. Eckelberg, John. Pagan, John. Parrell, J. J. Fell, William S. Pish, John S. Powlkes, John, Gray, R. H. Gregory, G. C, Gubernator, E. P., Plerbert, Thomas S., Holt, Samuel B., Holmes, Wm. McC, Hood, I. G. Humphreys, Geo. W., Jessup, Isaac, Jones, Wm. W., Jones, W. C, Jordan, P., Artificer ; wounded at Chancellorsville. Deserted, July, 1862. Discharged, 1861. Promoted Chaplain Twenty-sixth Mississippi regi- ment, 1864. Captured at Gettysburg. Killed at Drewry's Bluff. Wounded at Gettysburg. Transferred to Pirst company. Wounded at Manassas ; discharged. Discharged. Killed at Drewry's Bluff. Died of fever. Captured at Gettysburg. Discharged, insane, February, 1865. Detailed Telegraph Operator. Wounded at Drewry's Bluff. Transferred to Second company. Captured by enemy. Captured by enemy. Wounded at Fredericksburg and Petersburg. Transferred to Third company. ADDENDA. 457 Joubert, E. Keegan, M. Knox, Samuel, Kinney, M. J., Lazarre, T. Lazarre, D. Lake, Charles. Laury, P. J. Lauer, E., Lescene, John F., Lund, J. R. Marston, C. W. Martin, William, Marisole, Bernard. McDonald, John, McCuUoch, J. B., McGregor, C. McGowan, Jno. E., McManus, John, Mellard, E. A., Meux, John, Mooney, Pat, Myers, Henry. Nicholas, R., Nolan, David, Norcom, Albert, Norris, Thomas. Nugent, Thomas, O'Neill, W. T., Palfry, "William, Palfry, Charles, Peck, H. E. Pheiffer, John G., Pipes, David W. Purdy, I. C. Plattsimer, A. L., Porter, J. N. Redman, M. B. Remy, P. Lewis. Reynolds, George "W. Discharged, sick. Taken prisoner while straggling. Discharged, sick. Died at Petersburg, of dysentery, 1864. "Wounded at Drewry's Bluff. Captured at Gettysburg, died of small-pox, Fort Delaware. Discharged, disability. Transferred to Second company. Killed at Petersburg. ICilled at Drewry's Bluff. Transferred to Second company. Died of cholera, at Petersburg. Discharged, August, 1861. "Wounded at Manassas, 1862. "Wounded at Drewry's Bluff. Transferred to Third company. "Wounded, captured at Gettysburg. Transferred to Second company ; promoted Lieu- tenant of Artillery. "Wounded at Orange Court-House ; detailed in Engineer's Department. Captured at Gettysburg. Promoted; discharged by order of Secretary of "War. 458 THE WASHINGTON ARTILLERY. Roese'ii, Louis. . Eohboch, J. M., Eyan, I. M. Seaman, H. D., Sehmetzler, C. G. Sheekler, J. Shoe, Andrew. Smith, J. H. Smith, J. Smith, Henry. Shields, Leonard. Sneed, "W. T. Soniat, A. Stone, John H. Stuart, Wilson N., Sutton, Edward. Terrebonne, IT. D. Vass, A. F. Von Coin, Philip. Walker, George. Wall, James W. Watson, W. J. B. Webster, G. T. White, T. B. White, H. P., Wilson, H. P. Wilson, John H. Wilkinson, G. W. Wood, P. N., Jr. Detailed hospital steward. Discharged, 1861. Killed at Petersburg. Killed at Second Manassas. ROLL OP MEMBERS WHO JOINED THE PIPTH COMPANY, WASHINGTON ARTILLERY, ARMY OP TENNESSEE, AFTER ITS DEPARTURE PROM NEW ORLEANS. Armant, A. Anthony J. W. Anderson, Jno. R. Arroyo, Felix. Arroyo, A. Arroyo, Chas. Adams, Jas. Arnold, Thos. Brown, Geo. E. Boatner, H. J. Butts, Jno. P. Bein, Geo. Bryan, Jesse A. Bailey, C. P. Baker, A. H. Benson, C. Belsora, D. Belsom, P. ADDENDA. 459 Belsom, Jos., Jr. Boudreaux, J. J. Brindly, L. D. Brewerton, A. W. Barrail, A. Browning, Jas. L. Berry, Jno. Brevard, A. H. Blackwell, Wm. Barrow, A. D. Barrow, C. J. Burrows, !F. Clere, P. Chalaron, A. J. Chalaron, Henry. Covey, D. II. Collins, A. Cottreaux, E. P. Carpenter, J. ID. F. Commandeur, N. Cotting, C. C. Cotting, S. A. B. Converse, F. M. Crawford, G. W. Capon, Phil. Conrad, Paul. Dapremont, L. Daigle, L. Dabney, J. W. Daniels, Chas. Delery, Armant. Delery, Anatole. Duggan, Martin. Downing, J. B. Doherty, L. M. Eldridge, S. H. Etter, G. D. Elfer, J. A. Engman, T. W., Jr. Flood, P. H. Freiler, Jno. Feraud, Henry. Frerett, G. J. Fitzgerald, Jno. Fitzwilliams, D. J. Fox. Michael. False, C. N. Giffen, R. C. Goodwyn, Fred. Gollincr, Wm. Gaines, A. Gomez, J. F. Gordon, Henry. Giles, Geo. Gillespie, Jno. Greenwood, M. Greenwood, P. P. Galpin, S. Galpin, F. H. Hamilton, G. W. Haney, J. H. Hayward, W. B. Hyde, F. Hardy, Henry. Henderson, V. Hull, F. B. Hazard, J. B. Hayes, M. Hopkins, Andy. Hopkins, Octave. Hall, W. H. ' Harrison, Wm. Kent, Jno. R. Kennett, L. M., Jr. Keheo, Thos. Keyes. Pat. Lamare, J. M. Levie, C. A. Logan, Henry. Law, Geo. H. Legare, Oscar A. Leverich, Henry. McDonald, P. A. Murray, Jno. R. McDonald, Thos. Marks, II. J. Martin, W. P. Mass, B. Van. 460 THE WASHINGTON ARTILLERY. Miller, Jno. Miller, Henry. Meader, Herman. McCormack, Jno. Metzler, Jno. Morel, Fred. Mathes, Wm. Miller, B. R. McGregor, Wm. McMillan, Robert. McNair, H. M. Marquette, L. Murray, Robert. Nish, Geo. Newman, W. J. Newman, S. B., Jr. Ogden, H. V. Ogden, Wallace. Ponder, Jno. Percy, C. E. Philips, J. Pugh, Geo. W. Pugh, J. E. Pugh, Robert L. Robertson, Kenneth. Rost, Alphonse. Rice, D. A. Richards, W. A. Ryan, Pat. Richards, H. M. Ruffier, E. Richardson, F. L. Sevey, W. S. E. Stephenson, P. D. Sheridan, M. Sebastian, Jno. B. Scruggs, D. H. Stakeman, Benj. Swain, Andy. Staub, C, Jr. Turpin, E. Tutt, W. F. Thompson, F. M. Vinson, R. Vincent, Louis. Virtue, B. J. Vecque, J. Webre, Jules. Wild, Chris. Wood, F. W. Weingate, E. H. White, T. J. White, John G. Woods, W. A. Walker, Garry. Watson, Robert J. Wheatley, R. L. Williams, Jas. Williams, Morris. Young, J. H. ROLL OF FIFTH COMPANY (PRESENT AND ABSENT) AT THE SURRENDER. Slocomb, C. H., Vaught, W. C. D., Chalaron, J. A., Leverich, A. I., Johnsen, Chas. G., Bartley, Jno., Gibson, Robert, Captain. Senior First Lieutenant. Junior First Lieutenant. Senior Second Lieutenant; wounded and prisoner. Junior Second Lieutenant. "" SERGEANTS. Orderly Sergeant. Quartermaster Sergeant. ADDENDA. 461 Holmes, Curtis, Ogden, Wallace, Allen, Thos. C, Gifeen, Jas. F., Smith, D. "W., Smith, Jno. H., Browning, Jas. L., Eice, D. A., Pox, Chas. W. AUain, Alexander. Scott, Jno. W. Clarke, Jas. Mather, H. J. Header, Herman. Euffier, E. White, T. J. False, C. N. Kichards, W. H. Thompson, F. M. Williams, Morris. Williams, Jas. Swain, Andy, Abbott, Jno. AUain, V.F., Adams, C. A., Armant, A., Arroyo, F. Arroyo, At, Arroyo, C. Barstow, W. R., Bridge, Ben. Brown, Geo. E., Boatner, H. J. Butts, J. F., Baker, A. H. Belsom, D. Belsom, F. Commissary Sergeant. Ordnance Sergeant. Sergeant of Piece. Sergeant of Piece ; wounded and prisoner. Sergeant of Piece ; prisoner. Sergeant of Piece. Sergeant of Piece. Sergeant of Piece. COKPOR.^L8. A.BTIFICEBS. FABRIEB. EUGLEK. Absent, furloughed. PRIVATES. Absent. Absent. Absent, on furlough. Absent, sick. Detailed. Absent, sick furlough. Absent, detailed. 462 THE WASHINGTON ARTILLERY. Boudreaux, J. J. Brindley, L. D. Brevrerton, A. W. Berry, Jno., Brevard, A. H. Blackwell, Wm., Barrow, C. J. Clere, P. Chalaron, A. J. Chaliiron, Henry. Covey, D. H., Collins, A. Cottreaux, E. P. Carpenter, J. D. F. Commandeur, N. , Cottlng, C. C. Cotting, S. A. B. Converse, F. M. Conrad, Paul. Campbell, M., Dabney, J. W. Delery, Anatole. Davidson, Jno., Davis, Sam. J. Dooley, Wm., Eldridge, S. H. Etter, G. D. Elfer, J. A., Freiler, Jno. Feraud, Henry, Frerett, G. J., Fjtzgerald, Jno., Fitzwilliaras, D. J., Fox, Mike.' Feinour, E. C. Fahnestock, A. M., Eraser, J. Y., Giffen, E: C, Gollmer, "Wm. Gaines, A., Gomez, J. F. Gordon, Henry, Giles, Geo. Gillespie, Jno., Absent, wounded and prisoner. Absent, sick. Absent, detailed. Absent, detailed. Absent, prisoner. Absent on furlough. Absent, wounded and prisoner. Absent, sick. Absent, wounded. Absent, sick. Absent, sick. Absent; said to li.ave been promoted. Absent, detailed on account of wound. Absent, detailed. » " Absent, furloughed. Absent, missing in Tennessee. ADDENDA. 463 Greenwood, P. P. Hay ward, W. B. Hyde, P., Hardy, H., Henderson, V., Hull, P. B. Hazard, J. B. Hall, Wm. H. Henderson, W. D., Jamieson, J. J. Kelly, Patrick, Kent, Jno. R. Kennett, L. M., Jr., Keheo, Thos. Lamare, J. M., Levie, C. A., Logan, Henry. Leverich, Henry. McDonald, P. A. Marks, H. J., Martin, W. P, Mass, B. Van. Miller, Jno., Miller, Henry, Metzler, Jno., Mathes, William, McMillan, R., Marquette, L. Mathis, Louis. Mussina, E., Macready, L., Miller, D. C. Newman, S. B., Jr. Ogden, H. V. Ponder, Jno. Pugh, G. W. Pugh, Robert. Palfrey, G. W. Robertson, K., Rost, Alphonse. Seevy, W. S. E., Stephenson, P. D. Sheridan, M., Sebastian, Jno. B., Absent, prisoner. Absent, sick. Absent, detailed. Absent, detailed. Absent, detailed. Absent, sick furlough, (t it Absent, paroled prisoner. Absent, prisoner. Absent, wounded, prisoner. Absent, wounded. Absent, detailed. Absent, detailed. Absent, prisoner. Absent, sick furlough. Absent, prisoner. Absent, detailed. 464 THE WASHINGTON AMTILLERT. Scruggs, D. H., Skidmore, D. W., Sambola, A., Stone, Warren, Jr., Turner, Geo. A. Tynen, William. Turpin, E., Tutt, Wm. F., Vecque, J. Webre, Jules. Wild, C. Walker, Garry. Wood, F. W. Wingate, E. H. Wheatley, R. L. Watt, C. B. Watson, Jno. W., Wolfe, J. B., Withan, Chas., Absent, detailed. Absent, wounded. Absent, sick furlough. Absent, detailed. ADDENDA. 405 MEMOEIES OF "TRY US,"~ Bull Run, Manassas, Munson's Hill, Hall's HUl, Lewinsville, Shiloh, Monterey, Yorktown, Corinth, Williamsburg, Farmington, Seven Pines, Mechanicsville, Gaines's Mills, Savage Station, Frayser's Farm, Malvern Hill, Eappahannock Station, Second Manassas, Chantilly, Boonsboro' Gap, Sharpsburg, Mumfordsville, Perry ville, Fredericksburg, Murfreesboro, Stone's River, Chancellors ville, Gettysburg, "Williamsport, Jackson, Chiekamauga, Missionary Ridge, Newbern, Walthal Junction, Resaea, Drewry's Bluff, Cassville, Clay's Farm, New Hope Church, Dallas, Chickahominy, Pine Mountain, Kenesaw Mountain, Peach Tree Creek, Right of Atlanta, Atlanta, Rough and Ready, Jonesboro, Lovejoy Station, Mill Creek Gap, Columbia, Franklin, Overall Creek, Second Murfreesboro, Nashville, Spanish Fort, Fort Gregg, Petersburg, Appomattox Court-House. 466 THE yVASHINOTON ARTILLERY. ROLL or HONOR. KILLED AND DIED IN SERVICE. Fred Alewelt, Henry J. Atkins, J. W. Anthony, ■William Almindinger, J. R. Anderson, R. J. Banister, George B. Behan, Georg-e H. Bryens, Lieut. T. M. Blair, James Bayle, C. P. Bailey, J. Belson, Jr., Lieut. I. "W. Brewer, J. D. BlancLiird, John H. Benton, ^Yilliam Barton, A. T. Bennett, Jr., John T. Beggs, A. Barrail, Lawrence Bery, Leon Brocard, W. Cliamhers, H. Chambers, George Chambers, J. W. Cross, ErankE. Coyle, Joseph E. Clarke, Phil Capon, A. E. Coste, E. A. Carl, L. W. Cressy, Edmund Conden, James Dolan, J. W. Demerritt, Armand Delery, Fred Douber, L. Daigle, M. F. Duggan, John Earls, • P. W. Engman, J. E. Florence, W. E. Fowles, C. A. Falconer, Armand Freret, Jules Freret, John Fowlkes, P. H. Flood, Robert W. Frazer, Lieut. J. M. Galbraith, C. A. Gough, B. H. Green, Jr., G. C. Gregory, M. Greenwood, W. B. Giffen, Morgan E. Harris, John Huission, E. J. Hartnett, William Harrison, Stanford Higgins, G. M. Judd, E. J. Jewell, 0. Jewell, Eugene Joubert, James Rimney, H. Koss, F. Kremelberg, T. J. Lutman, T. Lazarre, ADDENDA. 467 'VVilliam Layman, M. P. Laphan, William Leefe, Ed. Loftus, James Little, .G. Leytze, Murville Labarre, John I". Lescene, L. L. Lewis, J. Leaiy, 0. A. Legare, Patrick Long, R. Taylor Marshall, J. Muntinger, George "W. Muse, W. Mains, H. C. McClelland, Isaac C. Meyers, E. P. Many, D. T. Moore, G. W. Massey, O. McDonald, H. A. Madden, E. G. McDonald, John McManus, E. A. Mellard, ' J. P. Mooney, John McDonald, Martin Mathis, E. S. Mellhenny, Wm. McGregor, B. E. Miller, F. Morel, W. J. Newman, John O'Donnell, H. Peychaud, C. R. Percy, J. Philips, Joshua 0. Reynolds, Frank D. Ruggles, Herman Ross, James Eeddington, Isaac H. Randolph, H. Eideau, F. Ruleau, James "W. Read, E. F. Reichert, E. Rieketts, Samuel Russell, . R. McK. Spearing, W. B. Stuart, Louis Seibrecht, W. W. Sewell, P. D. Simmons, J. H. Simmons, C. Staub, Ben Stakeman, W. B. Stewart, Hugh Thompson, 0. J. Toledano, Louis Vincent, H. Whitcomb, C. R. Walden, W. H. West, Henry N. White, G. Watterston, W. A. Woods, T. B. Winston, Thomas P. Jones, John J. Norment, H. W. Spencer. The End.