Memphis is a handsome city, built on a
high bluff, 420 miles below St. Louis. It had a population of
20,000 before the war, and was the center of a vast trade. Gen.
Jackson's equestrian statue is in a beautiful park, in the heart
of the city, but the rebels had obliterated the inscription,
"The Union must and shall be preserved." Shortly after
arriving here, Dr. Boon, Hospital Steward, was discharged, and
Jos. A. Gravatt appointed in his place.
John A. Bering & Thomas Montgomery, 1880
Tuesday 22nd
Finished and Mailed letter to my wife & wrote for my clothes
and trunk. Encamped in a nice orchard.
Cyrus Hussey |
Wednesday 23rd
Went to the city & bought Pants, shirts, collars, algebra,
knife, etc. Returned at noon quite unwell & ate nothing.
My throat quite sore. Head ache & fever. Took a bath by order
of surgeon Quinly.
Riot in camp army among the drunken German Artillerists. The
48th was called out to quell it & succeeded without firing.
Received a letter from Isaac dated July 17/62.
My wife well.
Cyrus Hussey |
Thursday 24th
Some better but my throat still sore. Received a letter from
my wife dated 18th inst.
Wallace's Division went down the river. [Helena, Ark to support
Gen. Curtis]
Cyrus Hussey |
Friday 25th
Nothing new. The regiment received some new clothing but not
enough for all. Went to city.
Cyrus Hussey |
Saturday 26th
In camp all day. Nothing new. Commenced a letter to my wife.
Cyrus Hussey |
Sunday 27th
Finished letter to my wife. In camp all day.
Cyrus Hussey |
Monday 28th
In camp all day. Nothing new occurred.
Cyrus Hussey |
Tuesday 29th
Went to the city [Memphis] & got my boots which had
been making at Mr. Apps. $10.00. Purchased [officer's]
straps for my blouse $2.00.
Cyrus Hussey |
Wednesday 30th
Not very well -- diarrhea. Recd a letter from My Wife dated 22nd
inst. Oh how pleasant it is to peruse these messages of love
from my Dear cottage home! Much excitement at home.
E. K. Starr deserted.
Cyrus Hussey |
Thursday 31st
Quite unwell. Very bad diarrhea. Got medicine from Dr. Quimley.
Col. Sullivan arrived Rolls signed for pay. Commenced letter
to my wife. Capt. Frazee [Co. C] came with Col.
Cyrus Hussey |
August 1st, Col. Sullivan, with a large
number of officers and soldiers, who bad been home on sick-leave,
returned for duty, which made the Regiment look like its former
self again.
John A. Bering & Thomas Montgomery, 1880
Friday August 1st
Battalion Drill by [Lt. Col.] Parker. Finished, mailed
letter to my wife. Col. Sullivan tried to take command of Dress
Parade after Parker had taken his position.
Cyrus Hussey |
On the 2d, the Paymaster arrived, and
paid us two months pay. It came when it was most needed and was
highly appreciated.
John A. Bering & Thomas Montgomery, 1880
Saturday Aug. 2nd
The Regiment was paid off by Maj. Mathews.
Paid LaFayette [Hussey's servant?] up to date & Q.
M. a/cs [accounts] in full.
Cyrus Hussey |
Sunday 3rd
Inspection at 9:00 A.M. Bathed in the Mississippi.
Cyrus Hussey |
Monday 4th
Sent $110.00 Dollars to My Wife. by G. W. Williams State Agent.
Parker wrote charges against Sullivan.
Kain's [Lt. Kean, Co. G?] Court Martial sitting.
Commenced a letter to My Wife.
Copied Parker Charges.
J.[Jonathan L.] Sanders joined the Co.[A. (This must
be a return from leave)]
Bob [McGill, Adjutant] & Frank [Posegate, Co. A]
with ten non-com'd officers to go recruiting.
Cyrus Hussey |
Tuesday 5th
Went to the City & bought provisions. Had a tooth filled.
Copied Parker's charges against Sullivan.
Furnished letter to my Wife. No mail.
Cyrus Hussey |
Wednesday 6th
Went to City & purchases pen & case. Returned to Camp.
Cyrus Hussey |
Thursday 7th
Weather very warm. On fatigue at wharf with 20 men loading Q.M.
[Quarter Master] Stores.
Cyrus Hussey |
Friday 8th
Went to the City with Jont. Sanders to get his money [back
pay]. Paymaster not in. Reunited in the A. M. Rec. letter
from Rebecca [Hussey's wife] & commenced answer. Finished
my letter.
Cyrus Hussey |
Saturday 9th
Went in Command of Company A with Companies B & D also under
Command of Lt. J.[Joshua] Hussey Co. D, 20 Miles below
Memphis on the Arkansas side to get cane for fort. 200 negros
went along to cut & load cane while we stood guard. [I
am] Not very well. River boat Shoved off for return at Sundown
& arrives 11:30 P.M.
Cyrus Hussey |
Sunday 10th
Drew some clothing & Camp & Garrison Equipage & issues
to Co. Very Warm Day. Dress parade for Sunset.
Cyrus Hussey |
Monday 11th
Officer of Reg't Guard. Battalion Drill at 6:00 A.M. Recd a letter
from my Wife dated 3rd & 4th inst. Commenced a letter to
My Wife.
Cyrus Hussey |
Tuesday 12th 1862
Battalion Drill in the A. M. Col. S.[Sullivan] a perfect
ass in Drill. Went to City- Trunk not there. Co.-Skirmish-Drill
in the P.M. Dress Parade. wrote to Silas Dive M.D. Finished letter
to My Wife- but left unsealed, Mailed letter.
Cyrus Hussey |
Wednesday 13th 1862
Took LaFayette [Hussey's servant?] to Boat the Lady Pike.
Got him Hat, Coat, & Pass. Co. & Battalion Drill.
Cyrus Hussey |
Thursday 14th
Battalion drill. News of a big fight between Banks & Pope
and Jackson. Our forces victorious. [The "big fight"
is the campaign leading up to 2nd Manassas. The battle itself
took place on August 29-30. However, at this date Lieutenant
Hussey would be talking about Cedar
Mountain, which was actually a Confederate victory. At this
time that fact could have been subject to interpretation.]
Went to City but my trunk had not arrived.
Cyrus Hussey |
Friday 15th
Battalion drill in the P.M. Capt. Frazee [Co. C] Com'g.
Col. Sullivan on Genl. Court Martial [Probably as a judge].
Parker quite sick.
Cyrus Hussey |
Saturday 16th
Battalion Drill by Col. Sullivan. Went to City. My Trunk not
come. Recd letter from My Wife dated Aug. 10th in which she states
that she forwarded my trunk on the 11th inst. Commenced a letter
to My Wife. Bob [McGill, Adjutant] & I in City. Jovial
time at Major's [Wise] tent & detail.
Cyrus Hussey |
Sunday 17th
On Brigade Guard. Jno Kain [Lt. Kean, Co. G?] put in Guard
house. Frank [Posegate] & Bob [McGill] to start
[on recruiting trip] tomorrow.
Cyrus Hussey |
Monday 18th
Adj [Robert McGill] & Lt. Posegate left for Cin[cinna]ti.
My self appointed Ajt. Pro. Temp. [acting adjutant] Regimental
Muster at by Lt. Williamson [72nd OVI]. My trunk &
clothes came in the evening. Review by Col. [Sullivan]
[Regimental History date differs. "Sept. 2d, Adjutant McGill
and Lieut. Posegate were sent to Ohio, with a recruiting party,
consisting of one sergeant from each company." ]
Cyrus Hussey |
Tuesday 19th
Review at 5:00 A.M. by Col. for practice. Recd letter from My
Wife dated 12th & 13th inst. Finished letter to My Wife.
Sent one, 7 pages.
Cyrus Hussey |
Wednesday 20th
Brigade Review. Col. S.[Sullivan] made an ass of himself.
Cyrus Hussey |
Thursday 21st
[Lt.] Col. Parker's trial to come off in this A.M. but
put off on account of his illness. Col. S.[Sullivan] withdrew
his charges against Parker. Geo. Byers Co. B, buried with Military
honor [See Honor
Roll]. Made requisition for one adjutant's field desk.
Cyrus Hussey |
Thursday 22nd
Battalion & Co. Drill. Dr. Carey [Surgeon of the 48th
OVI] arrived and reported for duty. [Lt.] Col. Parker
worse. Commenced letter to My Wife.
Cyrus Hussey |
Saturday 23rd
Battalion Drill twice. Order to have 200 rounds of ammunition
per man. Made Requisition for 35000 rounds. Finished letter to
my wife.
Cyrus Hussey |
Sunday 24th
Preaching in the A.M. by Chaplain of the 53rd & at night
by the Q.M. same. Made a requisition for 65 Austrian Rifles re.
as per estimate on file.
Cyrus Hussey |
Monday 25th
Went to Sherman's Qrs. after requisitions for Ordinance &
Ordinance Stores but he ([Maj.] Hammand [Gen. Sherman's
adjutant]) said the Genl. would not sign them until all came
in. 58 absentees joined the regiment. Recd a pair of Pants, Handkerchief,
Shirt, My Wife's Miniature [portrait] blessed treasure-&c.
from home. Wrote to My Wife. My feeling &c.
Cyrus Hussey |
Tuesday 26th
Working on Ordinance Return. Battalion & Co. Drill. Sullivan
Examined by board. I think he came out 5 officers minus. ["five
officers" is written vertically along the side of the page
as if it should be placed in the text as shown] Made Req.
for 58 Rifles & Equipment & Books.
Cyrus Hussey |
Wednesday 27th
Battalion Drill. Col. Parker better. Sullivan sent in his resignation.
He has been trying to get written statements from some officers
concerning Parker & himself. Drew in Ajt. Genl for Tactics
&c.
Recd letter from my wife about this date (18th or 19th)
Cyrus Hussey |
Thursday 28th
Battalion Drill. Finished Regt Ordnance Report for 1st &
2nd Qrs. 1862. Recd letter from old pupil Phebe Jane Thornburg
by the hand of Ash. Frazier [Co. A].
Made requisitions for 3 Clothing Books & 3 order books for
Cos. & left it at Sherman's. Forwarded Ordnance Report to
Chief of Ordnance.
Cyrus Hussey |
Friday 29th
Busy arranging papers. Commenced a letter to my Wife. [Lt.]
Col. P.[Parker] went up to the city P.M.
Cyrus Hussey |
Saturday 30th
Making out rolls. Col. Sullivan took the Muster in roll &
Muster Roll for Friday, Feb 28th from Adjt's office.
Cyrus Hussey |
Sunday 31st 1862
Mustered by Lt. Milt T. Williamson 72nd O.V.I. [Sergt. Major]
Chas. Parker marked deserter on FTS. Roll.
Cyrus Hussey |
Monday 1st Sept. 1862
Recd a letter from my wife. dated Aug. 24th 1862.
Cyrus Hussey |
Tuesday Sept. 2nd 1862
Wrote letter to Serg't Dillon [Co. A] concerning his conduct
& absence. Serg't McGaffery [Michael McCaffrey] &
others (six) of the recruiting squad started on Ohio Bell 5:00
P.M. Frank Kingsley [Co. H] not sent. Recd letter from
Mr. Morgan, Samantha Ohio Concerning the settlement of David
Morgan's accounts with U.S [Pvt. David Morgan of Co. A died
at Shiloh].
Cyrus Hussey |
....Major Wise resigned.
Wednesday 3rd
Still in same camp. Ed Conkling [Co. B] sick. Compared
the rolls of the regiment.
Cyrus Hussey |
On the 4th, the Regiment was ordered
on provost-guard duty in Memphis, companies C, H and G being
stationed at the military prison in Irving Block. It contained
one hundred rebel prisoners and a number of disorderly Union
soldiers. Our duties were very severe, as we had to be on guard
every alternate six hours, both day and night.
John A. Bering & Thomas Montgomery, 1880
Thursday 4th
Made out Morning report. Marched to Memphis to go in Provost
Guard at 10:00 A.M. Col. S.[Sullivan] Made a grand ass
of himself: & a worse one at night. In M&C Depot [Memphis
& Charleston Railroad Depot].
Cyrus Hussey |
Friday 5th 1862
Making out Monthly reports for Companies. [Gen. Stephen A.]
Hurlbut's Division moves to Bolivar tomorrow.
Cyrus Hussey |
Saturday 6th
Had Sergt. Wm Stewart [Co. K] arrested & sent to Military
prison for drunkenness &c. Recd a letter from my wife of
Aug. 29th
Cyrus Hussey |
The Memphis Argus, of Sept. 7th, contained
the following: "Cincinnati, Ohio, has surrendered to Gen.
Kirby Smith." This was startling news to our Regiment. Out
of the ten companies, one was raised in the city, and seven within
a circle of sixty miles. Our only consolation was that it might
turn out to be a false report, which fortunately proved to be
true, as it was contradicted in the same paper a few days later.
John A. Bering & Thomas Montgomery, 1880
Sunday 7th
Finished a letter to My Wife. Quite unwell. Sent My miniature
[portrait], some orders & paper to My Wife.
Cyrus Hussey |
Sept. 8th, Lieut. John Kean [Co.
G] was discharged for disability. [Hussey differs see
Aug. 4, Aug. 17 and Sept. 21.]
John A. Bering & Thomas Montgomery, 1880
Monday 8th
Hat Store burned up near the Gayose House. Wrote to William Morgan
Concerning David's &c. Wrote to Benj. Conard concerning Mrs.
Bolico's[?] Pension. Recd letter from My Wife dated July
13, 1862. My health some better.
Cyrus Hussey |
Tuesday 9th
My health improving. Col. Sent Frank Kingsley off [to join
recruiting squad].
Cyrus Hussey |
Wednesday 10th
News that Rebels are going to attack us. I think it all humbug.
Cyrus Hussey |
On the 11th, the rebel prisoners were
sent to Vicksburg for exchange, and we returned to our camp in
Fort Pickering. Before leaving, they were all furnished with
new rebel uniforms by their friends.
John A. Bering & Thomas Montgomery, 1880
Thursday 11th
Relieved from Provost Guard by 6th Iowa. The Argus gave the 48th
a nice "puff". Drew Ordnance & Ordnance Stores.
123 Prussian Muskets Cal. 69.
Cyrus Hussey |
Friday 12th
Issued Ordnance to Companies. Wrote short letter to My Wife.
Cyrus Hussey |
Saturday, 13th
Reviewed by Gen. Sherman. Everything satisfactory. Received a
letter from my wife dated 5th & 8th inst. Her health is better.
We are looking for an attack soon. Every thing will be in order
soon. Wrote short letter to My Wife.
Cyrus Hussey |
Sunday 14th
Attended Church twice. Nothing new.
Cyrus Hussey |
Monday 15th
Relieved from the position of Act. Ajt. by Col. Sullivan, [Lt.]
Col. Parker visited camp. Lt. Wilson [Co. H] act. Ajt.
Cyrus Hussey |
Tuesday 16th
Off[icer]. Reg. Guard. Heard of Rebels at Hamands.
Cyrus Hussey |
Wednesday 17.
100 men went with Contrabands after cane. ["Contrabands"
was a term commonly used during the Civil War to describe black
people who came into the Federal lines before the Emancipation
Proclamation. The word "contraband" means any materiel
that supports the enemy's war effort - be it food, clothing,
ships, or, in this case, slaves. Under this definition the Federal
Army did not have to return the slaves to their owners.]
Wrote to My Wife. Hard rain at night. Sent 21 papers to My Wife.
Rather unwell at night.
Cyrus Hussey |
Thursday 18.
Went to City. Got desk, Provisions &c. Went to Clk [be
the court recorder] at Court of Inquiry.
Cyrus Hussey |
Friday 19.
Not in good health. Recording Proceedings of Court, Wrote Short
letter to my wife asking her to come here.
Cyrus Hussey |
On the 20th, the Regiment was sent twenty
miles down the river, on a boat, to guard one hundred contrabands,
while cutting and loading cane, which grew in abundance in the
river bottoms, and was used by us in constructing fortifications.
Toward the latter part of the month, the duty of the Regiment
became very laborious. Large details were made daily, to cut
down all the timber within one mile of the fort, and to demolish
all buildings within a half mile, in addition to regimental and
brigade guards.
John A. Bering & Thomas Montgomery, 1880
Saturday 20.
Health no better. At Court of Inquiry. Recd a letter from My
Wife. dated Sept. 11, 1862.
Cyrus Hussey |
Sunday 21.
Still unwell. Had Inspection. Recd letter from Chas. Dillon.
Good News from the East. [September 1862 -- Harper's Ferry.
Union General McClellan defeated Confederate General Lee at South Mountain and
Crampton's Gap in September, but did not move quickly enough to save
Harper's Ferry, which fell to Confederate General Jackson on September
15, along with a great number of men and a large body of supplies.]
Maj. Wise Made a few remarks on dress parade. The Col. made no
answer. Lt. Kean [Co. G] Cashiered.
Cyrus Hussey |
|
Virgil Motes to wife Eliza
Sunday Morning 9 am
We all feel good over the news of McClelland's success in Maryland,
"The Traitor" as the Abolitionists and his enemies
call him. I guess he will now shut their unholy mouths &
maybe he will have some chance from this on of being let alone,
& if so this war will soon be brought to a close. Our boys
are on their high horse & you can hear all over camps hurrah
for Little Mack, He's the chap, etc., etc. Indeed we do feel
good & I rather guess you folks at home feel well also. Now
you had better be into peach & other fruit-bearings pretty
strongly as I'll want considerable of such articles for filling
up when I get home. It will take no small amount to fill us up
again. I do think this thing must close out soon. They certainly
can't stand many more such wippings as Mack has given them of
late, but don't look for us too soon. We will be there as soon
as possible.
….We have been living on sweet potatoes for some-time past
- plenty of fruit, mellons, etc.Percimmons, grapes & nuts
in abundence, but yet living is high.
Yours V. H. M.
Virgil Motes |
Sept. 22d, Capt. Frazee took command
of one hundred and fifty men of the Regiment, and went up the
Mississippi river on a steamer to Randolph, to reinforce a regiment
of cavalry that had left Memphis a week previous, on a raid.
We disembarked and remained all night. During the evening the
cavalry made their appearance. The next day we returned with
the cavalry to Memphis.
John A. Bering & Thomas Montgomery, 1880
Monday 22
At Court Inquiry. Maj. Wise gave Sullivan "Thunder".
Commenced a letter to my Wife.
Cyrus Hussey |
Tuesday 23rd
Finished letter to my wife & urged her strongly to come to
Memphis. At Court of Inquiry.
Cyrus Hussey |
Wednesday 24th
At Court Inquiry. Went to City. Mail came but no letter for me
- O. why should I not have one? Sent paper to my wife. Atril[lery].
prac. cannonade.
Cyrus Hussey |
Wednesday 24th
At Court Inquiry. Went to City. Mail came but no letter for me
- O. why should I not have one? Sent paper to my wife. Atril[lery].
prac. cannonade.
Cyrus Hussey |
Thursday 25th
At Court Inquiry. Went to Memphis & got blanks for Court.
Cyrus Hussey |
Friday 26th
At Court Inquiry. No word from home. Wrote a letter to Isaac
& a note to My Wife.
Cyrus Hussey |
Saturday 27th
At Court Inquiry. Recd a letter from My Wife dated Sept 20, 21.
Cyrus Hussey |
Sunday 28th
Not quite so well. Wrote a letter to My Wife. [Lt. Col.]
Parker talking of resigning.
Cyrus Hussey |
Monday 29th
At Court Inquiry. Not so well as usual.
Cyrus Hussey |
Tuesday 30th
At Court Inquiry. [Lt.] Col. Parker ret[urned].
to Reg. 29th. Recd a letter from My Wife dated Sept. 23rd 1862.
Answered My Wife's letter - writing about Frank's [Lt. Frank
Posegate's] advise urging her to come and see me. Not so
well. Took dose oil.
Cyrus Hussey |
When the weather got cooler, in October,
our brigade and division drills occurred more frequently, including
a "grand review " every Wednesday.
John A. Bering & Thomas Montgomery, 1880
Wednesday Oct. 1. 1862.
12:00 Midnight - just finished letter to My Wife Commenced yesterday
evening. Sent My Wife's old letters home - No only put them up
to send. Reviewed by Gen. Sherman.
Cyrus Hussey |
Thursday Oct 2nd
At Court Inquiry. Peace Commissions. [Research of this term
has been unsuccessful, however it may be a military commission
charged with keeping the peace in an area under martial law such
as Memphis was during this period.]
Cyrus Hussey |
|
Virgil Moats to wife Eliza
Memphis, Tenn.
Oct. 2, 1862
Dear Eliza
I am well and hope you and all are the same. I thought best tp
write you a few lines to let you know I am getting along and
to inquire after your family. No letter from you since the one
dated Sept. 7th. Can't tell why I don't get letters. Others have
been getting letters yesterday and today up to as late as Sept.
25 less than a week. Are you are any of the rest sick that you
don't write or what is the matter. I can have the blues the worst
kind about it can't content myself at anything just thinking
of you. Is father sick yet.
We have had some trouble in our company. Henry Doud went crazy
and with all our watching not considering him dangerous nor noticing
anything vicious, we had not tied him. Monday morning he caught
hold of a gun & ran the bayonet into his brother, Ed, who
was lying down on his bunk close by watching him. He done it
so quick that none could prevent it although several stood by.
The bayonet went through the right arm above the elbow and bone
and into his brest. Supposed at the time to have penetrated his
lung, but now such is not supposed to have been the case, as
preathing or talking is not interfeared with. The wound was a
very serious one & was at the time thought fatal, but now
we have no fears of his case, as he rests well and talks freely
as usual. Henery has been failing ever since, he is very poorly.
We expect to start him for Dayton this day. I feel bad at the
occurrence, but all in our power was done to prevent such a catastrophe.
They have always been good boys and I hate to loose them from
the company, but such are some of the casualties of this desperate
war. I know no particular cause of Henry's derangement. All he
says now is in reference to Jeff. Davis and Lincoln's proclamation
which he appears opposed to.
Our boys pay good attention to them & stays with them night
and day. [Serg.] John R. [Richardson] is now asleep having
been up with Ed all night. [The Official Roster states that
Edward Doud (Co. F) was discharged 10/1/62 at Memphis on a surgeon's
certificate of disability; Sergeant William H. {Henry?} Doud
(Co. F) is listed as being discharged 10/21/62 at Memphis, on
a surgeon's certificate of disability.]
Most of our boys are well. None in the Hospital but Douds.
I guess I have written about all for this time.
…
In my last I sent Dud a speech. If you got it tell me how he
makes it go. I made a mistake. It should be, The butcher killed
a calf, and that's half, & so on. (I left out- "and
that's half.")
Love to all.
No more for this time.
Good Bye V. H. M.
Virgil Moats 10/2/62 |
Friday. Oct 3rd
At Court Inquiry.
Cyrus Hussey |
Friday. Oct 3rd
At Court Inquiry.
Cyrus Hussey |
Saturday 4th
At Court Inquiry. Wrote to My Wife about Sister Phebe & coming.
Cyrus Hussey |
Sunday 5th
At Court Inquiry. No Mail. Went to Church on Main St. Memphis.
Wrote to Phebe J. Thornburg.
Cyrus Hussey |
Monday 6th
Court Inquiry adj. Writing for it. Rec. a discouraging letter
from My Wife Dated Sept. 30, 31.
Cyrus Hussey |
Tuesday 7th
At Court of Inquiry.
Cyrus Hussey |
Wed, Th & Fri. 8th 9th & 10th
Writing at Court of Inquiry. Expecting My Wife after Thursday
P.M. but she did not come. I am afraid she will not come.
Cyrus Hussey |
Saturday 11th
Last night heavy cold rain. Could not keep warm. Cloudy &
cold this morning. At Court Inquiry. Wife not Coming till next
week O. Finished at cases at court 200 in No.
Cyrus Hussey |
Sunday 12th
Attended service at the Methodist Church. 2nd St.
Cyrus Hussey |
Monday 13th
At Court of Inquiry. 11 cases. Recd letter from My Wife dated
Oct. 7, 1862. She will start here today.
Cyrus Hussey |
Tuesday 14th
At Court of Inquiry. 11 cases.
Cyrus Hussey |
Wednesday 15th
At Court of Inquiry. 11 cases. Grand Review - 3rd Div. Deploy.
Went to city for My Wife.
Cyrus Hussey |
Thursday 16th
At Memphis all day. My Wife came on Continental. Stopped on Boat
with her.
Cyrus Hussey |
Oct. 17th, Lieut. Posegate and his recruiting
party returned, with a number of new recruits for the Regiment.
[See also Aug. 4, 17, 18, Oct. 18. Lieuts. McGill And Posegate
seem to have made several recruiting trips to Ohio. Hussey's
dates differ a bit but are in the right period. Posegate's military
record indicates that he was absent recruiting Aug 15 through
December by U. S. Grant's Special Order # 153. A letter from
Capt. C. B. Howard, Office of Supt. Volunteer Recruiting Supt.
Camp Dennison Oct. 21, 1862 states that "Capt. Posegate
48th Regiment O.V. I. In charge of five (5) recruits and recruiting
party - consisting of three (3) Sergt will proceed to join his
regiment at Memphis, Tenn."]
John A. Bering & Thomas Montgomery, 1880
Went to Mrs. Ketchum's to board.
At Court of Inquiry.
Cyrus Hussey |
On the 18th, we enlarged our streets
and prepared more comfortable quarters for the winter.
John A. Bering & Thomas Montgomery, 1880
Friday 18th to Sun. 26th
On duty at Court of Inquiry except 25th. Border all time at Ketchum's.
Made act. Ajt. On 26th. Recd letter from Isaac on 24th. Martha
better.
Frank [Posegate] & Bob [McGill] to start 27th
inst.
Cyrus Hussey |
After the discharge of our cornet band
at Shiloh, efforts were made to make our drum corps more efficient,
but it was not successfully carried out until it was placed under
the leadership of George McMahon, after arriving here. From that
time forward, at intervals on a march and on entering towns and
cities, the band struck up some patriotic air, which always elicited
a hearty cheer from the Regiment.
John A. Bering & Thomas Montgomery, 1880
Sun. 26th to Thurs. 30th
Acting ajt. Went on Provost Guard 30th. Recd letter from Phebe
J. Thornburg 30th.
Cyrus Hussey |
Oct. 30 to Nov. 18th [Oct 30 to Nov. 8 is entered in a
single block. We have separated it by date.]
Reg't Mustered by Williamson [72nd OVI] 31st.
Cyrus Hussey |
On the 1st of November, the Regiment
was ordered again on provost-guard. Companies B and C were stationed
at the wharf, and guarded the Government stores. We occupied
the Bradley Block, near the landing, for our quarters. During
our stay the building took fire under the hearth, in the second
story. The alarm was given, but before the engines arrived we
had the fire under control.
John A. Bering & Thomas Montgomery, 1880
On the evening of the 4th, a strong
guard was ordered out on patrol duty, in anticipation of a disturbance
at the Warsham House. We patrolled the streets in that vicinity
until midnight, but everything remained quiet; and after partaking
of a free lunch at the hotel, and receiving tickets for breakfast,
we returned to our quarters.
John A. Bering & Thomas Montgomery, 1880
...Relieved from Provost Guard Nov. 6th by 40th Ill.
Cyrus Hussey |
On the 7th, the Regiment was relieved
and we returned to camp. Troops, under the President's last call,
were now arriving, ....
John A. Bering & Thomas Montgomery, 1880
...Quit cool prior to 12th. Dry up to 12th-slight rain at
night.
Cyrus Hussey |
...Brig. Gen. Denver put in Command of first Div. Dist. of
Memphis Nov. 14th 1862. Many new troops arriving from day to
day. 97th & 99th Ind (Ill.?[Hussey's uncertainty, it was
Ind.]) Assigned to our Brigade. No Brigade Commander. 72nd
in another Brigade. [The 72nd OVI is Col. Buckland's regiment.
Buckland was the 48th's brigade commander at Shiloh and the 72nd's.
It is here that Buckland and the 48th part company.]
Recd some letters from home and wrote as many answers.
Cyrus Hussey |
...Moved into Camp Nov. 15, [Lt. Col. Job] Parker's
trial in Progress. The prosecution badly worsted. Parker tries
to Impeach the Col. [Sullivan]
Raining 15th, 16th, 17th, 18th. Weather warm. Wagons tents diminished.
Cyrus Hussey |
...by the 16th of November quite a large
army was concentrated here, which was formed into divisions.
Our Regiment was placed in the 3d Brigade and 3d Division, under
orders to be ready to march on the 26th of November, …
John A. Bering & Thomas Montgomery, 1880
|
Virgil Moats to wife Elisa
Memphis, Nov. 16
Well Eliza
No letter from you for some time. Your letter that you said you
would write two weeks ago today has not come to hand. Maybe you
for got it.
I have not much to write only to tell you that we are well as
usual. [Corp. James] McFetters [Co. F] is improving
some [Corp.] John Johnson [Co. F] is doing very
well.
Got a letter from father the other day.
I will write soon as I hear from you. Our things have not yet
come. I fear they are on the boat that sunk Wednesday night -
The Eugene & may be lost. The letter I got was wet - was
on that boat. Write soon & keep me posted. No pay yet poor
prospects for it soon.
…
Write soon.
Yours etc. V. H. M.
Virgil Moats |
Wednesday 19, 1862
Rolls all signed by Williamson. [Lt. Milt T. Williamson 72nd
O.V.I.] Review of 3rd Brigade by Major Sanger. Issued ordinance
to Co. D.
Cyrus Hussey |
Thursday 20th
Mrs. Wilson called upon E. & R[ebecca Hussey?]. Buckland's
Brigade Reviewed.
Cyrus Hussey |
Friday 21st
Took Reg. Rolls to Paymaster Terrell. McDowell's Brigade Reviewed.
Cyrus Hussey |
Saturday 22nd
Brigade drill. Troops continue to arrive.
Cyrus Hussey |
….but on the 24th we were ordered
on provost duty in the city, to relieve the 46th Ohio.
John A. Bering & Thomas Montgomery, 1880
On the 26th all the troops, except four
or five regiments left for Holly Springs, Miss.
John A. Bering & Thomas Montgomery, 1880
Wednesday Nov. 26, 1862
Sherman, with Denver's[,] Smith's & Lauman's Div.
Started to join Grant's Army near Holly Springs. 48th left in
disgrace on account of its Col. Col. Sullivan in command of Fort
& myself Garrison Adj. Garrison consisted of 117th Ill. 120th
& 130th Ill, 48th Ohio, 8th Ohio Battery, Detachment Co.
H. 1st. Ill. Light Art. & about 2000 Convalescents. Col.
calming down but little. Lute [1st. Sergt. Lutellus] Hussey
in Co. C. 83rd Ohio [listed in Co. E in the roster]. Dr.
Curey [Surgeon of the 48th] Med. Direc. Fort.
Cyrus Hussey |
We remained [on provost guard duty]
in the city [Memphis] until the 29th, when we returned
to camp. In the evening Companies A, B and C went on picket-duty,
on the Pigeon Roost road, running south from Memphis, and remained
two days.
The rebel cotton-burners, who had been at work, destroying all
the cotton within the vicinity of Memphis, to keep it from falling
into the hands of the Government, caught a drayman of the city,
who had been engaged to go beyond the lines, to haul cotton from
the neighboring plantations. The cotton was burned, and his mule
and dray were confiscated. When he came through the picket-lines
he informed us of his loss, when eight of the pickets volunteered
to go with him and recapture his property. A barouche passing
along was pressed into the service. About two miles out the property
was found at an old plantation, and returned to the drayman,
who, with many thanks, returned home, a happy man.
John A. Bering & Thomas Montgomery, 1880
Dec. 5th, H. C. Stewart, Quartermaster Serg't, was discharged.
He afterward served in the Q. M. Department until the close of
the war.
Friday Dec 5, 1862
Relieved at my own request from duty at Fort Hd. Qrs. - reasons-details.
Cyrus Hussey |
From Fri Dec. 5th to Wed. Dec. 10th
Had very pleasant time with my wife - being at leisure nearly
all the time. Recd letter from Aunt Mary Jane urging Rebecca
to go home. It seems hard that she should have to go when I am
now just prepared to spend some time with her. But I must submit
- for she thinks duty calls her home and duty comes before pleasure.
Capt. Clarke died at 3:00 P.M. 10th Inst. [Capt. Clarke is
not on the roll of the 48th OVI, his relation to them is a mystery]
Rebecca started north on the Silver Moon at 5:00 P.M. 10th Inst.
It was a sad sight to see my dearest earthly treasure carried
away from my presence - perhaps forever. God grant to hasten
the time of our rejoining. She started in care of Henry C. Stewart,
Ex. Qr. Mr. Sergt. Discharged. Capt. Messenger on same boat.
[Capt. Messenger is not on the Roster of the 48th OVI] Lute
Hussey Quite sick. [1st. Sergt. Lutellus Hussey must have
recovered. The Official roster of the 83rd OVI states that he
was "Discharged Dec. 28, 1863, to accept commission as 1st
Lieut. In 65th Regiment U. S. Colored Infantry; promoted to Captain
119th Regiment U. S. Colored Troops, April 10, 1865, from which
mustered out April 27th, 1865."]
Cyrus Hussey |
Thursday Dec. 11th
Capt. Clarke's remains buried at 10:00 A.M. in the Honors of
War by the 48th Ohio Inf. Capt. Frazee [Co. C] commanded
the Escort & [Lt.] Tice [Co. I] and Myself
were the Subaltems.
Cyrus Hussey |
Friday Dec. 12th
Officer of Gar. [Garrison]Guard
Weather quite inclement. No trouble with Sentinels. Guard inefficient.
Resolutions of respect to the Memory of Capt. Clarke adopted
by 48th Officers. Sherman's & Smith's Div. Arrived.
Cyrus Hussey |
12th day of December A.D. 1862
[Col. Sullivan] further declares, that he is also suffering from a fall from his horse whilst in the regular line of his duty in said service, at Fort Pickering, Tennessee, on the 12th day of December A.D. 1862; that at the time of said occurrence he was in command of Said Fort and engaged in drilling the regiments then under his command; and, that whilst so engaged, Colonel McKaeige of the 120th Illinois Inf'ty, one of said regiments -riding a Mettlesome Stud horse- approached him for instructions in drill, and when near enough, the horse of said Colonel McKaeige, jumped on to the horse of him (Said Col. Sullivan) and before he (said Sullivan) had time to guard himself, he was then and there violently thrown from his horse, thus causing said injury to his wrist as set forth in said Surgeon's said certificate.
Mare Paddack, Probate Judge
Sept. 16, 1863
[Sworn affidavit in Col. Sullivan's Pension Record]
Sat & Sun. 13th & 14th Dec.
In camp all the time. Attended Church on the Sabbath. Nothing
new. Wrote short letter to My Wife Sat. Night.
Cyrus Hussey |
Tuesday Dec. 16th
Got Arms from Shop. Visited Lute Hussey. Commenced Sullivan's
Ordinance reqson.[requisition] Small Mail came in - none
for me. Sent for McClellan Cap by Sutler. [A McClellan cap
is a forage cap or bummer (similar to a kepi but when pulled
up, taller). A sutler was a vendor who supplied soldiers with
items beyond what was issued to them (for a price).]
Cyrus Hussey |
Wed. Dec. 17th 1862
Capt. Robbins [Co. A] wrote to Capt. Ernest 6th Ken. Cav.
about Jonh. Chance [Co. A]. Expedition preparing to go
southward. Large Armament of Fort being removed to take along.
Fine clear weather. Col. Sullivan temporarily relieved of his
command on account of health on 16th inst. & allowed to take
quarters in the city. Smith's Division, Army Tennessee, reviewed
in P.M. Commenced a letter to My Wife.
Cyrus Hussey |
CLICK TO VIEW ENLARGEMENT
Orders to Col. P. J. Sullivan for reimbursement during detatchment, 17 May 1863
Don Worth's Collection
Thur. 18th 1862
Finished and mailed letter to My Wife. Recd letter from Lt. Williamson
[72nd OVI, likely a brigade adjutant] in regard to [Capt.
James C.] Kelsey's [Co. E] oc Muster. No word from
Home. Rolls signed for pay.
Cyrus Hussey |
Another
expedition was now organized, under Gen. Sherman, for Vicksburg,
to proceed by boats down the Mississippi river. As we were not
yet assigned to any Division, we had concluded that we would
spend Christmas at Memphis, and had written home to that effect.
But on the 19th of December Lieut. Col. Parker made a request
of Gen. Hurlbut, Commander of the Post, to have the Regiment
relieved of garrison duty, so as to join the expedition. Such
requests are always granted, and on the following day we were
ordered on board the steamer "City of Alton." We were
placed in the second brigade, with the 19th Ky., 77th, 97th,
108th and 130th Illinois regiments, commanded by Col. W. J. Landrum
[Landram], of the 19th Ky., and in the Division commanded
by Gen. A. J. Smith.
The Regiment was in command of Lieut. Col. Parker. Col. Sullivan,
who was still suffering from his wound, had been appointed president
of a military board, and was left behind. Lieut. Quarterman was
also left, with several members of the Regiment, who were unable
for duty.
On leaving Camp Dennison for active service, the Regiment had
thirteen teams and five ambulances. But now we were only allowed
five teams and one ambulance, which was shortly after still further
reduced to two teams.
John A. Bering & Thomas Montgomery, 1880
Report of Col. Peter J. Sullivan
…
This regiment, formerly in the command of Maj. Gen. W. T. Sherman,
was attached to Brig. Gen. A. J. Smith's division by special
orders, No. 21, from Maj. Gen. S. A. Hurlbut, dated Fort Pickering,
Tenn., December 19, 1862, and by him assigned to second Brigade,
commanded by Col. W. J. Landram.
About this time, consequent on wounds received in the battle
of Shiloh, and a sever fall from my horse near Memphis, fracturing
my right arm and wrist, while I was in command of Fort Pickering,
Tenn., I was placed on dispatched service by a subsequent order
(No. 25) from Maj. Gen. U. S. Grant, dated January 25, 1863;
consequently the command devolved on Lieut. Col. Job R. Parker.
….
Peter J. Sullivan (OR 8/4/63)
Friday 19th 1862
Recd Orders in the evening assigning us to 2nd Brig. 1st Div.
Right Wing, Army of the Tennessee. & to prepare to embark
immediately. Recd letter from Isaac dated 11th inst.
Cyrus Hussey |
Virgil Moats to wife Eliza
Since writing the above the Gen. [Alexander S. Asboth] has
pressed Gen. [Stephen A.] Hurlbut [, commander of the
Fort Pickering garrison] to have me remain with him but they
won't allow it so I will have to go. Gen Asboth is wrathy about
me having to leave him, & I don't like it very well myself.
[Virgil Moats military record from the National Archives states
that he was Garrison Adjutant of Ft. Pickering from December
5-20, 1862] I may get another good place. The boys were very
much opposed to my remaining behind. I have to write in spells.
Must stop a while.
Virgil Moats 12/20/62 |
Virgil Moats to wife Eliza
… Our coming away from Memphis was rather against our feelings.
Nearly all were opposd. to it & we blame our Lt. Col. [Parker]
for it. Col. Sullivan is not on duty on account of his arm
and did not come with us. Lt. Col. Parker got us started &
all are down on him for it, he was very keen to get us started
& will be the first to start back when danger threatens.
We were so well fixed at Memphis, indeed no soldier could have
asked for better treatment, it was as near home in comfort as
we could have expected & besides that our communications
with home was very good & that is no small matter to me.
All say better let good enough alone & hope Parker will get
his satisfaction before he gets through. I would hate to have
the curses he gets for coaxing Gen. Hurlbut to allow him to trade
with another regt., it taking our place in the fort that we might
hold until spring…
…Now for something else. I met with bad luck Friday night
in going from Headquarters to the Co. I was somewhat out of humor
at hearing of our moving & not paying much attention to where
I was going, stepped on a snag and tore the right leg of my new
breeches very bad, almost spoiling them, but I guess I can get
them fixed so as to do pretty well. You had better believe it
made me mad & had I been in the habit of swearing might have
cussed Parker a little, but you know your old boy V. never does
such things, & ain't you glad of that. War with all its vices
don't cause me to swear. Who would not have got mad at leaving
such a good place as we all had & such a place as mine was
in particular, even the old General Asboth was mad about it.
I could have remained with him all winter had our regt. Stayed.
Virgil Moats 12/22/62 |
Saturday 20th
Spent in preparation. Got my Miniature repaired but did not succeed
in getting it to Eliza ions[?]. Started on Forest Queen.
At 5:00 P.M. Paid off a little after 12:00 midnight. Went on
Steamboat City of Alton - at 5:00 P. M. Col. Landram, 19th Kentucky,
commanding Brigade. Hd. Qrs. In City of Alton.
Cyrus Hussey |
Virgil Moats to wife Eliza
Hd. Quarters Fort Pickering [Memphis]
Dec. 20th 1862
Dear Eliza
I write you a few lines to let you know that I am well &
expect to leave here by tomorrow. By some unaccountable reason
we have been ordered off. We go down the River. I will have to
draw pay & send it today by express, also send my trunk and
cot. I hate very much to leave my good position but such is the
fate of war. All uncertainty. You will keep the money until you
hear from me again which will be soon and often. I may write
more before I leave. Do not be uneasy about me. I will try &
take care of myself. Trust in God and all will be well…
I will mail this No money yet. Will probably be paid before we
leave. I sent my trunk, my Shiloh blouse. Take good care of it
& in vest pocket find a nice watch for yourself. Had no time
nor money to get picture. Will write soon.
Good Bye V. H. M.
Virgil Moats 12/20/62 |
Report of Col. Peter J. Sullivan
…
On the 20th of December, 1862, in pursuance of orders, this regiment,
numbering 379 enlisted men and 23 commissioned officers for duty,
under command of said Lieut. Col. Parker, embarked on board a
transport at Fort Pickering, Tenn., and accompanied the expidition
down the Mississippi River, under the command of Major General.
W. T. Sherman.
….
Peter J. Sullivan (OR 8/4/63)
During Saturday the troops embarked
on the boats. That night they were paid two months' pay, and
on Sunday, Dec. 21st, 1862, the Division left at 2 P. M. Memphis,
where we had spent the last five months, was soon lost to view.
The boat ran until 1 o'clock that night, then tied up at Friar's
Point, twelve miles below Helena, Ark. Here the fleet of forty-five
transports, loaded with troops, and several gun-boats, joined
us.
John A. Bering & Thomas Montgomery, 1880
Sunday 21st
Sent $50.00 & Breast pin by Lt. [William A.] Quarterman
[Co. C] and at 3:00 A.M. to express to my wife. Our Division
started about 2:00 P.M. down the River. The 108 Ill. & our
Regt. On same boat.
Sent short letter to My Wife with money. Church twice on boat.
Moored at Friar's Point 12 Mid[night].
Cyrus Hussey |
Virgil Moats to wife Eliza
…about two o'clock our fleet composed of about 50 boats
all loaded with soldiers with the addition of about 20 gunboats
& mortars left Memphis for, well, I don't know where, probably
Vicksburg, maybe Yazoo River. We passed Helena [Ark.]
about 10 miles and laid up for the night-… |
Virgil Moats to wife Eliza
… that was not all of my bad luck. We got our pay after
we got on the boat Saturday night about 2.0 o'clock and of course
I had to break a little piece off the Sabbath in going up town
to send my money, and while there I thought best to get a picture
& send it as you requested. So I got it and went to the express
office to send it and on coming out of the door slipped and fell
getting all mud, hurting my back and nearly breaking my arm.
I really don't know whether it was just bad luck or for breaking
the sabbath, but at any rate I was out of humor & at the
time would not have cared much if I had broken a bone then I
could have stayed behind, and gone home. Now I hope that you
will think none the less of the picture, because it was taken
on that day nor none the less of the original for having it done,
as that was the best I could do & I know you & the boys
wanted the picture no difference when taken, & I expect would
like to see the old chap himself even with a broken arm. The
cost was $5 and ain't that high?…
Virgil Moats 12/22/62 |
Virgil Moats to wife Eliza
… that was not all of my bad luck. We got our pay after
we got on the boat Saturday night about 2.0 o'clock and of course
I had to break a little piece off the Sabbath in going up town
to send my money, and while there I thought best to get a picture
& send it as you requested. So I got it and went to the express
office to send it and on coming out of the door slipped and fell
getting all mud, hurting my back and nearly breaking my arm.
I really don't know whether it was just bad luck or for breaking
the sabbath, but at any rate I was out of humor & at the
time would not have cared much if I had broken a bone then I
could have stayed behind, and gone home. Now I hope that you
will think none the less of the picture, because it was taken
on that day nor none the less of the original for having it done,
as that was the best I could do & I know you & the boys
wanted the picture no difference when taken, & I expect would
like to see the old chap himself even with a broken arm. The
cost was $5 and ain't that high?…
Virgil Moats 12/22/62 |
The whole fleet left on the following
morning [12/22/1862], stopping at sundown, twenty-five
miles above Napoleon, Ark. -
John A. Bering & Thomas Montgomery, 1880…
Monday, 22nd
Houses burnt at point. Started down River at 12. M. Moved just
below mouth of White River on the Ark. Shore at dusk. Clerked
for Stewart's tral. Sent out Pickets.
Cyrus Hussey |
Virgil Moats to wife Eliza
…started this morning about 10 & are now making fine
headway down the Mississippi. We are having a fine trip &
I hope a successful one without danger, but you know war is always
attended with danger. What we are going for I can't tell but
expect to make Vicksburg…
…We left behind on account of sore eyes principally, [Harman]
Hockman, [Corp. James] McFetters, [Michael] Carroll
& [Serg. John Roth?] Rath, Geo. Hopkins to be discharged
and [William] Edwards to take care of sick of the regt.
I wanted [Corp.] John Johnson to stay behind but he would
not since he was bound to go along, he is getting along very
well and fleshing up, none are sick. [Sore eyes or "pterygium"
seems to have been a common problem suffered by the soldiers
in the 48th. The Official Roster shows that Hochman (1/7/63),
McFetters (12/6/1862), Hopkins (1/26/63) and Edwards (1/26/63)
were discharged for disability on the date indicated after each
soldier's name. Carroll and Roth (Rath) recovered and served
with the 48th throughout the war. The men listed were all from
Co. F.]
We are to send our trunks and things home being unable to carry
anything but a satchel. My old trunk & things are hardly
worth sending but I think so much of them that I could not bear
to throw them away & besides my blankets and other things
I could not cary were too good to throw away, on the whole we
will not loose much by sending them home. My blouse that I wore
at Shiloh take good care of & the watch get a crystal &
key for & have foe your self, it is a good one & with
a nice chain will be pretty for a lady to carry. Maybe you will
say that you are not a lady. Any good woman is a lady and no
other, fine cloths don't always make the real lady, do you think
so? It is getting dark in my room. I must stop until after supper
& then write more. The boat shakes so bad that I can hardly
write, hope you can read it However.
Virgil Moats 12/22/62 |
