3C=3C Diary of Ephraim Shelby Dodd Member of Company D Terry's Texas Rangers DECEMBER 4, 1862 —JANUARY 1. 1864 PRESS OF E. I,. SI KCK AUSTIN ISM !■ " ■"- 1 r^' — ' 1 II '1 11— UCI33C=:- Diary of ^ Ephraim Shelby Dodd 1 1 j Member of Company D Terry's Texas Rangers DECEMBER 4, 1862 —JANUARY 1, 1864 • • • • ••* f ^1 ir PRESS OF E. L. STECK AUSTIN 1914 ■ c I c: 1 ^ If =,iJ. INTRODUCTORY NOTE In his history of "Terry's Texas Rangers," Mr. L. B. Giles narrates the following tragic incident of the East Tennessee campaign : "It was during this winter that one of the saddest events in all our career happened : the hanging of E. S. Dodd by the enemy. He was a member of Company D. He was of a good family and well educated. For many years he kept a diary, setting down at night the happenings of the day. He was taken prisoner with this diary in his pocket. On that evidence alone he was condemned and executed as a spy." In January, 1914, the State Librarian received a letter from a resident of New York State, informing him that she had in her possession a diary found on the body of a Texas Ranger hung as a spy. Negotiations for its acquisition by the State Library were opened at once, and terminated successfully. The only information about the diary this person could give was that it "was found by a lieutenant from a N. II. regiment, who for 3^ears was a friend of our family, and some time before his death (which occurred six years ago) he gave it to me." E. S. Dodd came to Texas from Kentucky late in 1860 or early in 1861. After visiting an uncle, James L. L. McCall, at AVaco, he made his home wtih another uncle. Dr. John R. McCall, at Austin. He wasljeflching school near Austin, and was not vet out of his teens, ■wh'efi he enlisted in Terry's Rangei's. Ernest AVilliam AVinki.kr Tex.vs State Library November 5, 1914 Sift CarT5et;i« Irstltution of Washington DIARY OF EPHRAHE SHELBY DODD Transferred from old Diary. Thursday, Decemher Wi, 1862 — I went out from ]\I. to Mr. , live mile-s from town. I went from there to Gen'l ^Morgan's IIead(|narters, leaving the Knox county filly at Mr. and riding Walker's horse. I took supper at Lewis Black's, ^Morgan's Headquarters. The Gen'l wa.s in town ])ut came in .just after supper. I went on to Chenault's camp and staid all night with John and Van Benton. Fridntij, ^>lli — Snowed all day. I rode to Alexandria and went out to Mr. Bass', seven miles, got there about night. I found all well. Saturday, 6//( — 1 remained quiet to-day. ^li.ss Frances came over. T staid all night and Sunday, 7th, I started on my return to camp. Came to Statesville, got pair of boots, $25. Came out three or four miles and staid all night. Monday, StJi — I got some cloth and came to town (]\L) ; stopped but a .short time. I saw Miss Kate, received a nice present, a sack to carry tobacco, made of red, white and blue. I came out to ^Ir. House's and staid all night. Tuesday, 9th — Came back to camp. Company on picket. Burke in command at camp. I was put on comm. guard. Wednesday, M)lh — Lieut. Ellis went on a scout. I went with him. Teii men detail went down on Wilson pike, turned off to left and staid all night with i\Ir. Smith, a clever man, nice family, daughters, etc. Thursday, 11th — Crossed the railroad and went down near Fi-anklin. Got a guide and went down country through farms, etc., to near lirentwood, sto])ped at .Miss ]\lag. ^IcGarrock's. Came back to ^Ir. Cami^bell's, two miles froni Franklin, and staid all night. Friflay, 12/// — This morning just at daylight, while in the act of eating bi-eakfast, the tight conunenced in town. A\''e put out inunediately ; found the Yanks in possesion of the town when we got there. Their pickets fired on us. We then crossed the 4 DiAUY OF EP]1K.\I.M SlIEI.By DODD creek to go roiuul and get with Smith. Got into Mr. Baugh's lot and while there came near being surrounded by a hundred or two Yanks. Came cross country to Ilillsboro, got good dinner and came back to F. by night. Yanks left about 11 o'clock. Found Smith in possession. Came out two miles and staid all night. Safurda!/.. 18/// — Came back to Camp. I went on forage. Sunday, l-ith — Got a good dinner at Mrs. T. Monday, 15th — I and Jeff Burleson went out and got a good dinner and my clothes. Came back and found the Company in Camp. To-night I, Eslinger and Jessy Johnson went out cross the hills to preaching. Parson Bunting officiated. I went doAvn with Eslinger and the girls to Mr. Page's, got some good apples, set till bed time and came to Camp. Tuesday, 16th — Remained in camp. Wednesday, nth — Saturday, 20th — During this time had sev- eral false alarms amounting to a run down the pike and back to Camp. Also regular turns on picket. Sunday, 21st — Go on the famous detail to M. after guns which cost me three days' roots. I went to see Miss Kate, spent about three minutes, had to make flying visits. Called to see Mr. Lane's family. Coming back to Camp, stopped to get supper and did not get to Camp till after night. Monday 22nd — Put on three days. A false alarm caused us to go to the front. Tuesday, 2'Srd — Went on picket. I was put on at the Widow Wednesday, 24//; — Was transferred to Black's picket at Holt's and stood to-night. Thursday, 23th — This morning just after being relieved the Yanks made a break on us. We were fired on just as we reached the Com., fought them all day, falling back about four miles (Christmas Day). Returned to Camp. Friday, 26th — Were aroused early this morning with tlic woi-d the Yankees are in Nolensville. Went up at doul)lc (niick and found them there. Fought them there all day until uiglit, falling back to our old Camp at Mr. Page's. Staid there to- night. Our loss, one piece of cannon and a few men — .McClure of Company E killed. December 27, 1862— January 4, 1863 5 Saturdan, 27//(— Comiueiiced .skirmishing early, falling' l)ack slowlv; fought tlirongh Triune and Ijeyond Mr. Perkin.s. Rained on us all day. After paasing Mr. P's, we took up line of mareh, came up three miles and turned off for Murfrecsboro. I stopped and spent the night in a kitchen; came on Sunday 28th and overtook the Regiment. We came in five miles of M. T^Iet the wagons, unloaded them and prepared to cook three days' rations, but were ordered to saddle up and get out to meet the Yankees. A. false alarm. Staid out until near mid- night. Came back to where we left the wagons l)ut they were not there. Monday, 29f/i— Went out this morning to the end of the Wilkerson pike. :\ret the Yankee.s and skirmished with them all day, falling back gradually. Their cavalry charged us once but paid dear for it. A number of prisoners were taken. We fell back to our infantry this evening. Tuesday, 30t/i— Rained to-day; all quiet till evening; fight then opened between the infantry and continued until dark. Wedticsdau, 31.sf— The great day of battle commenced at day- light and raged heavily all along the line until 3 o'clock, Yanlvs drove back four miles. Our Boys took in prisoners by the hundreds. Captured twelve cannon and during the day about 2000 prisoners, 160 odd beeves, some wagons, etc. Thursday. Isl January, 1863— Went to La Vergne and pitched into their wagon train, captured and burned a good many wagons, 200 prisoners. Friday, 2 nci— Transferred to the right wing. Saw the fight this eve. Breckinridge had to fall back. Raining all the time. Saturday, 3r^/— Raining all day; sent out on a scout last night beyond Stone River to :\Ir. Black's. All (piiet. » Sunday, 4//)— This morn before day our Army couunenced to retreat. I left the Regiment on the Plaza in ^l. and. went out to the end of tlie Wilkerson pik(>. Got my clotliing and came across to the Salem pike, found a number of unparoled Yanks on my way. I met Gen'l Buford but he would not send back to parole them. I went on to town, went to see Miss Kate, took a bite to eat and bid them goodbye. Went up to Mr. Lane's and from there out to Col. Smith's Regiment and back to Col. Cox in town. lie promised to attend the Yanks. I then started 6 DiARV OF I-'JMIKAIM S 1 1 KI ,|•.^• DoDD for the Command. Came out to Col. Lytle's, stopped, found Morton of the Battery tliere. I took supper there but did not la!j, 14//j — Squadron went on scout. I went to shop and on bread detail. Sunday, 15tk — Remain in Camp. Monday; 16/A — Last night had a meeting of the Lodge; passed two and raised one ; made the acquaintance of Dr. Moore and lady, also Miss Stern, a niece of the Doctor's. Monday y l^th — Another meeting; one passed and two raised. Tuesday, Mth — I listened to some delightful music this morn- ing by ]\Iiss Stern, particularly the Texas Rangers, dedicated to Mrs. Gen'l Wharton. I started back to Camp but met the Regiment going out on picket. I fell in and went out and had to come back or go back and get my blankets. Came out half a mile from D. and camped. Wednesday, \Wi — Remained in Camp all day. I am very unwell. Thursday, l^th — Came on picket this morning. Friday, 20th — Our Squadron sent on post this morning. I joined Tom Taylor's mess; Jessy also. I and Tom went out to Mr. Elmore's and got some bac(m and milk. I stood to-night. Saturday. 21st — Brigade went out on scout. Oar Company supported battery, drove the Yanks back to their main camp and returned. Sunday, 22nd — Parson Bunting preached for us to-day. Noth- ing occured to change monotony of camp. Sick, and time drags slowly with me. Monday, 23r at John's, Green Crews ami John West came in. T went with them over to Mrs. Dinah Hiiffey. A. soon came, said Yanks were about. I staid all night. He went to John West's. Miss Polly is a fast one. Friday, Sth — T went to John MitchelTs to meet A.; was not there. T went on to John West; saw ^Miss Jane Wiley; came back to D's; found A. tiierc. I came back to John West, and on to Dots Belt's; staid all night; on to Green Crews this morn- ing. 16 Diary of Epiiraim Shelby Dodd Sat iirddij, Ulh — Start this eveniiij;, six of ns, to Allen County, Ky. Went up in eisht miles of Scottsville ; stay all night or day in woods. To-night go by Ayres, Will Span's and old man Span's. At the latter place we got into hot water. Bush- whackers attacked us, killed my horse, stampeded all. I got separated from the rest, went, one mile, got two horses, eame on through to New How Monday, 11th, and on across to Coats- town. Find Will at Mrs. Iluffey's, shot. ^liss Sallie Key there on visit. I stay all night. Tuesday, VltJi — I and Will Rogers went over to Green's and Bass's; met by John ]\I. Green getting in. ^let Al- bright, went back to D's and stay all night. S. K. there. Wednesdai/. 13/// — I met some of ^Morgan's men; Harper with them. I joined them and went cros.s railroad at JMitchellville over to Wickwire's, eight miles from railroad. Stopped, at Mr. Simpson's and got breakfast. Miss Sue Offutt, Miss Jimmy Wickwire there. After breakfast went to the woocLs and staid all day. TJiurxday, \Alh — This evening we all went in and got supper then down to Mr. Wickwire's and got supper and the supper is a mistake; danced nntil 12 o'clock. I and ^liss Jimmy danced two sets. I enjoyed it finely, then bid them adieu and came out to Pete Laurence's by daylight. Birch swapped horses on the way. Pete 's sister brought us provisions. Friday, \Tylh — To-night stopped to see two Lincolnites; got six shooter from one, single barrel from the other; stopped at Squire Henry's; got some cherry bounce; played off Yankee on him ; got all the information we wanted and went on to Wickwire's; fed at Mr. Simpson's; girls got up, chatted them awhile. I, IIari)er and Gibson then left the crowd, crossed the railroad and bought two horses and came on to Bracken's and got breakfast. From there to Ashlock's and got dinner. Came cross the pike and I left thein, went by Bass's and on to Crews and staid all night. Saturday, 16^/t — Sunday, 11 th — Came to jMrs. Huffey's, found Albright. Monday, 18/// — Tuesday, 19/// — Yesterday went to Tompson's Shop ; not at home. This morning to Hughes ; gone to Gallatin. May IOtii to 21tu, ISGl] 17 Came by Jordan Carr's, got dinner and on to ^Toss's. Found Jim Berryman there. Harper came soon. Went down to Sulli- van's, fed and I left. Went on to John Stewart's, staid all night. Wednesday, 20th — Down to Hughes, got my horse .shod, came back, and nine of us started. Came up near Epperson Springs, found the Yanks were there and at Scottsville too strong for us. Got supper at Stinson's, a regular tory. Tjanib swapped horses with him. Then started for New Row. Came across to Bracken's, got breakfast, three of the boys had left us. Thursdai), 21st — We came this evening out to where the others were; Yanks in New Row; so we could not go there. Came to Widow Hodge's. Five of boys went on; two slept in bushes; I and Jim Berryman slept in house. Friday.. 22nd — Came cross the pike to Meadows, fed our horses. I, Jim and Lamb started back to Kentucky. We came cro.ss pike to Mr. Hodges and got supper, then cross railroad and out through IMitehellville to Norris ten miles from railroad: staid all day and to-night. Saturdaif, 2'^rd — Went down, to Finche's and got a horse. ]\Ir. Finch came out with us some distance. Came back to Norris ; staid all night ; nothing to eat. Sunday.. 2-ifJi — To-night went down near Redman's; run into Yankee pickets, and started back. Came cross railroad and out to Sherwin's, got breakfast and on to Boss iMeadows. From there to Hughe's Shoj) ; got two shoes and nails made. Went down to Essick's and got supi)er and on toji ^fountain and staid all night. M(>)ida]i. 2^)111 — Tucsfkiy, 26th — This got my mare shod, went on, found A. at Henry ]\fitcheirs came back to Hardy Silver's, found the boys and started back to the railroad to get some boots. Took .sui)i)('i- with .Mi', llodiic and on lo ixodiniore's; had not the boots; then came back cross i)ik('. 1 went with Berryman to shoj) ; Hughes not there. T left him, came on to Jack Stewart's. 1, Albright and Lamb started back for Gran- ville this evening; cajue on to Griggs, got supper. From there to Staffords and staid all night. Wednesday, 21th — Met Thompson's and Stalc\ 's men. 18 DiAKV OF ElMlRAI.M SlIKI.BV DoDD TInirsday, 28th — Came to Montgomery's. Lamb left us. We came on to AVidow Ballon 's. Yanks close at hand. We staid in bushes to-night. Friday, 29th — AVcnt to Dixon Springs to-day to get a Yankee saddle; liad to wait until the two Regiments of Yankee cavalry and train passed out. We then went in, I and Ward. I went up to "Sir. Alexander's; Miss ]\Iollie knew me, Miss Nannie did not. 1 took supper and staid till 10 or 11 o'clock and left, ("ame back to Mrs. Ballon \s. Satttrdaij, 30th — Came to i\lr. Beasley's and staid all night. Siuidai/, 'Slst — iNlet up with Parker as Lieut. Brown. I got a horse for ^Mason Rector. Came on to Granville, found Company D there, and that we were published as deserters. Came out near Cookville to-night. Monday, 1st day of June — Came to Mrs. Brown's, took break- fast, got our clothing and came on to Camp. Camp moved this evening. Proceedings stopped until Kyle comes up. Our names sent with others to be published in Houston Telegraph. Came out to-night to pasture and turned in. Tuesday, 2nd — Came in to Camp, find that my name has been sent on with others to be published as a deserter. Wednesday, 3rd — Ordered to remain in Camp. Thursday, Ath — Wm. Hamby got in from Austin, Texas; staid all night with me. We went out to a private house and spent the night. Friday, oth — AVilliam left me this morning. To-night I and Eeuben went out to JMr. Mills and staid. Saturday, 6th — Lieut. Black* took all men able for duty and started to Sligo this morning. To-night the Company got in from G. Sunelay, 7^//— Started for left wing, went to Sparta, halted there hour or two ; came on to Cany Fork and camped. Monday, Sth — Came to McMinnville this morn. Ordered Regiment to Hoover's Gap to picket; wagons to Manchester. I w^ent to the wagons to get a saddle, stopped with Dave Nunn, staid all Tuesday, 9th. Came to camp, rigged my tree and JuxK IOtii T(» 27tii, lS(i:^ 19 Wednesday, lOtli, caiiu' to the eoinniand. caiiiix-d near Beech Grove on pike. Tlmrsda]), llth — Came on picket. Fridaij, V2th — On picket duty; camped at our ohl stand. Saturday, VMh — Company jjo on picket. Sundai/.. 14//t — I and Capt. Hill go out after i)rovi.sions, stop at ^Ir. Mankin's, Prayters, Jacob's, ^lankin's and return. Monday, lotJi — I took dinner to-day with 'Sir. Guess. Relieved this evening. Five of us went on scout ; got supper at ]\Ir. ]Man- kin's. I left my valise at Mr. Guess's. I forgot to note leaving undershirt and pair of drawers at >Mr. Brown's on Palling Water. Tuesday, 16//* — Regiment relieved and came into camp. Wednesday, Mth — Di-ill inoi-niiig and cvcninti- inspection. Received two letters, one from Cousin .lennie, one fi-om Tom Maxwell. Thursday, 18th — Review of Brigade by Gen'l Hardee. Friday.. 19//( — Regiment came to Fairfield and fri)iii Hiere to Bell Buckle and camped. I went out to ^I'r. Suggs anil got some bread baked and returned. Saturday, 20th — Remained iu camp to-day. Thi-ee of the Ar- kansas Post boys came up from Wartrace and among the num- ber was Doc. Norwood. Staid with us to-night. Sunday, 21st — Came over to Old Fosterville to picket. Monday, 22nd — All quiet. Tuesday, 2'ird — Wednesday, 24fh — Company on picket. T came back to attend a court nuirtial ; staid all night in Camp. Thursday, 25/// — Rained all day. Yanks made a general at- tack on our pickets. I went out to the Company about 11 a. m. ; fell back to Ransom's; went over to Bell Ruckle; traveled all night. Came on to Fairfield; staid a short time and came on back to Ransom's and camped. Fridai/, 26tli — Saturday, 2Hh — Came to Bell Buckle this morning and from there to Wartrace, our infantry falling back to Tullahoma. Went a short distance beyond Warti-ace; llth Texas and 4th Georgia skirmished with "them a littK>; a few wotuuled. We came to Duck River and camped. 20 Diary of Epiiraim Shelby Dodd Sundai/.. 2Sth — Came on to-day to Tullaboma; continues to rain night and day. I saw James Maxwell, Billy Dunson, Julius Len- sing and Doc. Norwood. Monday, 29th — I was detailed to go to the shop; came on to town, found Stroud and came out five miles to shop. Still raining. We spend the night at the shop. Tucsdaij, 'MVIi — Our work finished and we return to Camp at Tullahoma. Regiment came in soon after. I got a letter from Miss S. A. Jourdan. I went over to the Texas Brigade, saw Doe. Norwood, G-eorge Holman, George Jourdan, Frank Wilkes and Billy Dun.son. Came back and our Regiment moved out on the right and camped. I went on a scout with Black to Hills- boro; went within one mile and came back; no Yanks there. Traveled all day or I should have said all night. Got back and found the Army on the retreat. Wednesdlai/.. July 1st — Army in full retreat. Came on to Alisony bout 11 o'clock. While on the move from that point my mare fell and broke her left foreleg just below the knee. John Henry was left with me. We came on short distance and went to sleep. I left my mare where the accident happened. Tlinvsdcuj, Jul If 2nd — Came on to Deckerd this morning. From there took wrong road and came up Cumberland Mountain to the University with Hardee's Corps. Found there that we had taken the wrong road. John went down to the house to get some information and I lost him. I came down to the railroad and staid all night. Polk's Corps crossing all night. Friday, '3rd — I waited until our wagons came up and ]>ut my luggage on them and rolled on. Came to foot of ^Mountain to- night. Saturday, -ith — Came down to Battle Creek from head of Sweden's Cove; portion of Polk's Corps crossed j^ontoon at mouth of Battle Creek and cross the river. We came ■ on to Bridgeport. Crossed this evening. Met Bob Ship here. Sunday, 5th — Came up to the foot of the mountains and camped. Monday, 6th — Start cross the mountains. Came up, I and Paul Watkins, to Nicka Jack, staid all night with IMrs. Porter. July 7tii — ArorsT r)TH, 1863 21 Tuesdmj.. 1th — Came cross the mountain tlirough Hamburg, got dinner there at Mrs. Reeves and came on to Camp within one and a lialf miles of Trenton. Wednesday, ^th — Remain in camp. Thursday, 9fh — Saturday, llth — All (luict. i'ut on one month's roots for the Kentucky trip; read at dress parade yes- terday evening; commenced this morning. Sundait, 12th — Start this morning for Rome, Ga. Came on top Lookout iM'ountain; rained to-night. Monday, l-^fh — Came on through Lafayette and six miles beyond. I and Hob Ship, Tom Peterson and .Jim ^McGuire stayed all night about one mile from Camp. Rained very hard for a while. jNIusic to-night. Tuesday, 14#/i — Came to within fifteen miles of Rome, passed through Chanyville. Wednesday.. liSth — Came to Rome; pretty ])lace for the Coun- try. Camped two miles from town and spent all day in town. Thursday, l^th — Remain in camp all day. Friday, llth — All quiet in Camp. Brigade officers had a ball in town last night. Saturday, ISfli — jMoved camp down on Silver Creek four miles from town. Sunday, Idtit — Friday, 24:th — Usual routine of camp duty. A protracted meeting going on, conducted by Parson Bunting and others, commenced Sunday. I am on duty every other day Weather warm and dry. Saturday, 2i)fh, to 1st day of Aiiyust — All ([uict : u.sual routine of camp duty. Two days since, wliile out on forage, I saw ]\Iiss Anna Ransom at Mrs. (iarrctt's — a givat pleasure to meet with them. 'Ard, Atb, Wednvsday, i)th — Tiie barbecue and presentation of the horse to Gen'l Wharton came off to-day. Jno. Rei-tor made the presentation speech. Gen'l W. replied. Harrison made a few remarks; diiuier was then announced. After dinner Billy' Sayers and Adams of Company C maile speeches. Everything passed off finely; quite an array of beauty present. The Misses R. and (J. pi-eseiit. I paid my respects to them. 22 Diary op Kimiraim Smklhv Dodd Thiirsdai/, (ilk, to Fridai/. 14/A— Nothing l)ut roll call, in- spection, dress parades and drill. AVe are living high on peach pie. 1 have made a few acquaintances, hut don't find the hospi- tality that we did in Tennessee. I was over at Mir. Bryant's to-day. Can't say that 1 enjoyed it very highly. I pass from 14th to 20th. Nothing stirring. Oh ! yes, the wedding — Charley Littlefield to Aliss MoUie Maddry, by the Rev. Air. or Lieut. Simpson of Company B alias Sim Brnce of Company E. ]\Iy time passes very pleasantly. 25th — Went to town to-day. Passed the day pleasantly ; took dinner with Rome. Saw Cousin JMollie; came out to Mr. Mobley 's ; took supper. Met with Col. Cox, IMr. Barrick of Glasgow, Ky., and Mr. John.son and Lady of Nashville. Miss Mobley was very sociable. I sit till bedtime. Time passed pleasantly. Now, that we are acquainted, have become attached to the folks, we have to leave ; always the case. I made the acquaintance of Miss Maggie Ezzell, Miss jNlattie Sommers, Miss Fannie Summers and Aliss Alollie Robert and enjoyed myself with them finely. Friday.. 2Sth — "We bid our friends adieu and came out eight miles above Rome. I got my hunting shirt as I passed through town, cost me sixty-eight dollars. Saturday — Remained in camp. Simday, SOtJi — Monday; Slsi — Moved four miles this evening. I and Jim McGuire went out and spent the night with Mr. Alnderson. Tuesday, 1st — Came on to-day to INFrs. Partain's where we stopped as we went down ; found Mr. Sewell there still mending clocks; the girls looking charming. Staid all night. Music and mirth. Wednesday, 2nd September — Came on to Lafayette, camp one mile from town. Had a meeting of the Lodge this evening; 1 attended. Thursday, 'Srd — Remained here to-day; me\ again this evening at the Lodge in town. Friday, 4th — Started for Alpine; came out twelve miles and camped. September oth to 20Tn, 1863 23 Saturdai/.. Tiih — Reached Alpine, left one wagon to the Regi- ment, and with the rest the dismounted men started for Rome. Came eight miles and camped. Sunday, 6th — A number of us started at two o'clock this morn- ing and came on twelve miles and got breakfast. I and Oly Archer turned off at Coosyville and came l)y ]\Iiss Ransom's. Miss Anna and ^liss Fannie were there, also ^Nlr. and iNIrs. Settle of Murfreesboro. AVe spent the day with them and came to camp in the evening. Monday, 1th — Camped at Col. Shorter 's; one brigade of in- fantry near us. Tuesday, Stli—A\\ quiet. I went off over to John's last night, but big Cousin was not there. Wednesday; 9th — Quiet to-day. Thursday, lOlh—l went over to Whitehead's to get some raw hide to cover my saddle. I stopped at ^Nlr. Alobley's and took dinner, chatted Miss Metta a while and went over to the Mill and on to the tan yard and back to the Mill ; found Dr. Neely there. I staid till bout 10 o'clock and came back to Camp. Time passed pleasantly, "on Angels' wings," while with Miss Mag. Friday. 11//' — Remained in camp. Saturday, Vlth — T played off on an old Georgian as Captain or with Captain's imiform, got a buggy that a private could not have reached with a twenty foot pole. I and Oly Archer rode out in it to INIr. Ransom's. Took Air. Jackson along with us. We took supper and sit till bedtime. Time passed delight- fully. Pleasant drive back to camp. Sunday.. \Wi — jNFoved eight miles from Rome out on the Kingston road to where the 4th Tennessee camped near a mill on the river. Mi'iiing, was appointed Adjutant of the Preps! Preps! Frid^lf^ 9ih — Jimmy eame in this niornin three miles from the village. To-night I went to Mi-. Green's, one mile from A. with AVin. Campbell. Left my horse and went to town and took 10 o'clock train and went to Kingston. T staid but a few minutes; did not find wli.it 1 went after. Came u]) at \2 o'clock to A., went out to Mr. (Jreen's and staid all night. Sunday, 2'tlh — Went to town this morning and sent a lettei* to Tunnel Hill by Harper to Miss Nannie. 26 DiARV OF El'IIRAlAI SlIELBY DoDD Monday, 26th — Wednesdm/^ 28th — Hothing worthy of note. TJiursdaij, 291 Ji — I went down to onr old staini)ing ground to-day. I stopped to see Miss Eugenie Holt; had just returned from a visit to Marietta and was looking very pretty; stopped but a sliort time. Went on to Mr. Davis's; nobody at home but IMiss MoUie. Crossed the River at Freeman's Ferry and went to Mr. Somers. Miss Maggie's husband at home. I staid all night. ]\liss Mattie came down this morning. I staid till bout 10 o'clock. Friday, SOth — I came back to Mr. Davis ; Mrs. D. and husband just starting to Rome. I took dinner and left. Came in to Mr. Green's, near Adairsville, and staid till bedtime and came to Camp. Saturday, 31st — Remain in camp. Sunday^ 1st November — I went to to^^^l and mailed some letters, and out to Mr. Mooney's, the tanner, and got dinner; came by Mr. Green's, stopped awhile and on to Camp. Monday, 2nd — Remain in Camp all day. Tuesday, Srd — Friday, 6th — Start this morning I and James Pickle down the country, stopped at Mr. Gillam's and took dinner. From there to Mr. Kit Dodd's and staid all night. Saturday, 1th — I met ]\Ir. Gore there, promised to write to Cousin Serena. Came on to Mr. Somer's and then to Van Wert; staid with Col. Jones to-night ; met Mr. Jones and Lady, Mrs. Cullin and ]\liss Lou, daughter of the Colonel. Had a candy pulling. Sunday, 8th — Came or went to Mr. Carmichael's and back to Van AVert before we found him. Jim left his leather with him and we came on to Capt. Wimberly's and staid all night. Monday, 9th — Came in to Cedar Town this morning. Stay all night at the Hotel, ten dollars apiece. Sold some tobacco to him. Tuesday, 10th — Came out with Clan Blakemore and Fuget to Mr. Thomas. I spent the night at John Hatchers. Miss Jane Simpson was there to-night. James Pickel was not with me;, the other bovs went back to town. November 11tii to 24tii. ISH:? 27 Wedncsdaij, lltli — I spent the day and night at Mr. Hatchers. " Thursday, 12th — Went over to Mv. Thomas'. I made a girtli for him. From there to Miss Kate Carter's. Mr. Shirry and two other gents came in, gentlemanly, merry. Friday, IStli — I came over to Mr. Hatcher's. Saturday, 14/// — Left Mr. Hatcher's and came np to Cave Spring, saw Jenkins and Capt. Hooks. Mart Lee was there bnt I did not get to see him. Came on to Dr. Richardson's near Cedar Town and staid all night, a very fine family indeed. Has one grown dtiughter. .Met Col. Bryant, a Kentncky refugee. Sunday, lotJi — Came on to Van AVert. Jim stopped at Car- miehael's and got his boots. Came on to Air. Peck's and to Mr. Somers ; stopped and spent Alonday. Novcmher, 16th — Came this evening to Adairsville ; found our Train gone to Charleston. Slept on the ground. Tuesday, 17th — AVent to Grandpaps this morning and got breakfast. Jim stopped at Air. AIcDow's to see Reuben Stround. Came on and we started from Grandpaps. Came up to Air. Curtis and turned off to the right. Came up to Silvacoa and camped; got corn from a field. Wednesday, IStJi — Got breakfast, paid two dollars for it and crossed the River. Came on to Spring Place, got heel plates put on. Came out seven miles and staid all night. Camped. Thursday, 19/// — Came on to-day to Cliarlestown and six miles above to Air. Calloway's and staid all night. Friday, 20th — Came on through Athens, Sweetwater and Piiil- adelphia ; came out one and one-half miles and took supper at a very nice place — Virginians. Alet AI'cAIahon of Company [I. T and Jim came on to Camp near Loi/(don. Saturday, 2\sl — lim went to the Com. this morning 1 had an offer for my mule this eve and sold him. Sunday, 22nd — AVe remained in Camjv Mo)iday, 23rd — Aloved Camp to within two miles of Lrnoir on Little Tennessee River. I went out to .Mr. \'assey"s; let my cioth.ing. Tucsdiuy, 241 h — .Ml (|iiiet in Camp. Firing at Kiiiii-stnu. Wheeler and Wildei-. 28 Diary of Kpiiraim Siielhy Dodd Wednesdaij, 2^)th — Tlmrsdaij, 2{itli — Went to a dance io-jiii;ht. I only danced two sets. Dr. Bol) was willi me. Came back about one o'clock. Friday, 21th — Kemained in Camp all day. Saturdajj, 2Sth — Started this morning on a scout through Blunt — Charley Mason, John Kelison, Jessy Kirkland. ]Met up with Charley Pelham and Sam Piper. Kirkendol of Company G was with us. Found Steve Gallagher and Jim with Mr. Upton. Jim was wounded; Steve came on with us. We crossed the River at Niles' Ferry and staid all night at Mr. Norwood's. Sundaij, 29tJ> — We went up the road two or three miles and found all the troopers leaving Blunt. We turned and came back to Mr. Norwood 's and took dinner and came cross the River to Mr. Curtis and staid all night. Mondaij, SOth — Charley Pelham came down this morning and told the Yanks were upon us and to fall back to Mr. Upton's. Kirk was pretty merry. Went down to Hawkins to get Sam Piper and Kirkland. We came up to Upton's, met IMaj. Stevens, took dinner and sent after whiskey. Upton called up his negroes and gave them some whiskey and commenced the preparation for the move. I staid with them until they started. Four of us went to Cunningham's and staid all night. Tuesday, 1st December — We came to Mr. White's this morning and there left Mr. Upton and started for the Telico Plains, I, IVIason and Keliscm. Met Kirkland, Piper and Kirkendol; then came up to ]\lcDermot's and staid all night. Wednesday, 2nd — I and Kirk went to Cagle's and got his horses. I paid 200 to boot. Met at Mc D's. Four of us staid at Mr. Hunt's. Thursday, 3rd — I came over to the shop and had my horse shod, and I and Kirk came on to Carmichael's. Found Pete Kendall there. The other Boys had gone. Met Bulger Peoples. Went on to Hawkins; found all the Boys there; staid all night. Friday, ^th — Started for Motley Ford. Heard the Yanks were there and started for Carmichael's. Came on five or six miles and met up with Dick Tainter of Scott's Louisiana Regi- December 4th to 7th. 1863 29 ment. Came on to C. and tlierc divided; Sam J'ipor going to Mr. Shaw's with me and T. Had not heen there long till the other boys came on. We got ready to start, and they refused and Sam piper with them. I and Tainter then left them and came on to Mr. Donohiie's and staid all night. I have never taken such i\ pirute before nor never will again. Snturdaij, 5//?— Left Mr. Donohue's with Diek Tainter and came down to iMr. Carr's on the River, five miles above the mouth of Citico. Pound them all gone up the River for North Carolina. Dick did not want to go to Blunt. AA^e went across the River to Bright 's and found several men, Briscow of Com- pany K among them. AVe staid all night. Suudaif, 6th — We started for Ilolloway's with two of the Boys. AA^e got there. Dick would go no further. I\Iint and Drew and IMeroney all turned gack. I, Hugh Singleton and Briscow started for L. Came out to Old Ala.jor Pugh's and found the A^anks had prowled him of beehives and everything. Then came on cross Alotley Ferry road and through a camp they had just left. Some Yankees on the ground laying up fences with the negroes. AVe came on cross Morgantown Road, found all the roads traveled by them. Came on to Capt. Dyer's, fed our horses and got supper and on to within one mile of Louisville. Stopped at Old Man Dyer's; found the Yanks in large force near him. Stopped, and fed and walked down to within three hundred yards of their camp fires. Could not get to the Planters Hotel. Came back; six of our boys were laying out in the woods near Afr. D's. AA^e fed and slept in the barn till nearly day. Old Man woke us up, found two of the men were Carlton and Patton of Company F; others were Alorgan Alen. All came out to a thicket and spent the day. Mouday, 1th — Came in this evening to Air. Dyer's, found the A^inkees all gone, got supper and went down to the Planters, spent two or three hours. Gardner sold ihcin a horse. I must take Ali.ss Kate one. Came out to-night to Mr. Dyer's, warmed and came on to Lige Jim Henry's. I passed as a A^mkcc with Airs. Ilcni-y. Came on to Air. Holloway's and tit .Mr. I?e&s*s and got dinner. 30 DiAKY OF Epiiraim SnKi.in- DODD Tticsddu, SUi — Came .011 to Mr. IJright's and staid all night; rained all day. Wcdiiesdnij, 9ih — All quiet to-day. Didn't move. Thursiknj, 10th — AVe start for Longstreet for or via Sevier. Gave it out and started for the vicinity of Bess' Mill. Went to see Mr. Jo Gray, a Lieut, in the Yankee Army. He was not at home; took two horses and a negro. Came on to McCully's and got two of them, two guns and one pistol, two horses. Came on to Bess' but found them all gone, then came gack to Mr. Bright 's. Friday, iltJi — Started this evening for Sevier, got as far as Little River at Mv. jMcClane's and turn ])aek. Two Yanks rode right through ns. Came on by day near j\Iont Vale Spring. Stopped and got breakfast. Saw two Bushwhackers but could not catch them. Alet ^Ir. King at the Springs. Came on over to Mr. Gomly's. Satiirday, 12//t — I staid all night at Mr. Cutchberson's. Su)(d(nj, ^'Alh — All started to-night for Louisville. Rained and we sei)arated ; I, Smith and Alexander leaving the crowd at Mr. Everett's. We stopped at Mr. Best's and staid all night and all day. Monday, lUh — Start to-night for Sevier; ran into the Yanks at Maryville; my saddle turned; I lost my horse. The Boys abandoned theirs and we made our escape on foot. AVorked our way out to AlcClaine's on Little River .iust at daylight, but he would have nothing to do with ns ; could get no assistance from him. Came down the River and lay out in a little mot of timber. Tuesday, l^itJi — Came to Iliram Bogle's, erossed the Little River at Finley's, the Sheriff of the County. Got to Bogle's and got a snack to eat. Mr. Bogle had taken the oath and would give me no information, only directions to Tim Chandler's. Tuesday, 16th^ — Came on to Chandler's, got lost on the road and had to stop and inquire at a house (John Robinson's). He told me about the Home Guards being in the neighborhood. I or Me went on until we got to the house where they were camped iThere is confusion of days and dates from "Tuesday, 16th" to "Thursday, 2r,th;" for the 16th is Wednesday, the 17th is Thursday, etc. Dece.mber IfiTn TO i^O'i'ii, 18U;i 31 or near it. The road forked and 1 went up to inquire about the road. Found 'twas not a dwelling and saw the HJome Guards through the window. Went on to the next house, Mr. Johnson's, and got the information and traveled on. Got to C's 1 o'clock at night, found Mr. Ilouck there. Boys staid at the house while I went to the house. I took supper with them and got some meat and bread for the Boys. Miss Rogers was there. I could get but little information from Chandler. I went to the barn and we went into the straw to stay next day and cross at Brad- son 's next night. Wednesday, \lih — This morning the Home Guards got on our tracks, and by the aid of Citizens found us and carried us back to the Academy. Randell is Capt., Cresivell first Lieut., Rose 2nd, Moore a Private, Ingle, Keener and others. Thursflay, 18fh — Start this morning for Knoxville ; get in bout 1 p. m. Capt. Harnetts takes charge of me and sends me to Prison. Friday, 19th — I find one of the 11th Texas here, three or four of the 2nd Georgia. I send out a sunnuons to the Lodge for assistance ; two members call on me and promise to attend to my case, hut I hear no more from them. Another squad of 96 prisonei's came in, also three of j\Iorgan's men. ]\lessrs. Church and Smith. IMa.j. Smith of Wheeler's staff called on us. Two other squads came in. With the last came Will Morton of the Battery or Company F. Alexander takes the oath and left us. ]\Iorton, myself, the two Churches and two Smiths form the mess. Sund'ay, 21st — Parson preached for us this evening. Thursday. 25th — A dull Christmas. Receiving one-(iuarter pound bread a day and bout one ])0und beef, no wood hardly — freezing and starving by inches. All this bring.s me up to the 29th Monday. ^lorton tried to get to see his sister but could not. The I'arson came in and informed him that she died at 'A o'clock thi.s morning. Such is the fate of war. In I'lO yai-ds of her and yet could not get to see her. Wedtn sddif, :]0(h — ]\lorton out on street parole. 32 Diary of Ephraim Shelby Dodd Thursday, 'Mst — Miss Anna 15rool