RUTLEDGE BATTERY
Company A, 1st Tennessee Light Artillery
Note: Please visit another file where Rutledges are mentioned in association with any war.
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Rutledge Battery as described in Journal of Major (then Sergeant) Bradford Nichol.
War observations taken from my notes which I daily made whilst in the Confederate Army, and at this time 1901 in my iron safe for my sons. These notes were written when I was a youth 18 years old to 22. Bradford Nichol, Sr
The formation of a Field Battery first originated in the mind of Mr. E. F. Falconet, Chief Engineer of the Nashville and Northwestern RR, then being built from Nashville toward Hickman, Ky. He had under his employ about 2000 Irish laborers and grading nearby Kingston Springs 24 miles from city. He picked out 125 of the most healthy, stout men for privates and brought them forward to Nashville and lodged them in a warehouse on Broad Street. They resolved to provide commissioned and non-commissioned officers from the graduates and cadets of the Western Military Institute located here. To this end they repaired to Watkins Park situated on Line, Clay and Park Streets and were duly mustered into the Tennessee State service on the 13th of May 1861. The intention was fully determined to elect Mr. E. F. Falconet as Captain but Governor Isham J. Harris called the Legislature together and a Bill organizing the Tennessee Troops provided for one Regiment of Light Artillery and further provided that all Field officers and Captains should be graduates of the West Point Academy. This law precluded the election of our favorite leader…so the command was fully equipped by the election of 1st (Sr.) Lieut. E. F. Falconet, 1st (Jr.) Lieut. M. S. Cockrill, 2nd (Sr.) Lieut. Joe E. Harris, 2nd Lieut. J. E. Wheeler, Chief of Caissons and non-commissioned officers as indicated {in the following Battery Roll}. Shortly after Governor Harris selected and commissioned Arthur Middleton Rutledge as Captain and appointed him to the command of this Company to be known as Company A, First Tenn. Light Artillery. We had a number of officer’s drills conducted by Bushrod Johnson, then President of our Western military Institute. Having a fair instruction from him the officers began and continued the Artillery drill in Watkins Park being furnished with four 6 pounder smooth bore guns and two12 pounder howitzers. All iron and made at Brennons' Foundry in our city. We occupied this camp-ground until July 10th having been here just two months. On this date for reasons satisfactory to our officers the company was removed to Camp Weakley in the North side of the river where more rigid rules to govern raw recruits could be enforced, in as much as the nearness of the city permitted drunkenness to great extent among our cannoneers. The state did all in its power to thoroughly equip, this its only Battery at the time, and right proud were all - "of the wonderful big guns" we were to use in the defense of our homes and Southland. It was here that "Weber the Poet and Musician" composed that afterwards noted and beautiful song, 'Ye Southern men who love your land, Gird on your armor bright, go ye forth like Spartans' Band to battle for the right, Yea die E'en at the cannon's mouth."
Roll of the Battery
Captain Arthur Middleton Rutledge; U.S.M.A. Class of 1837, resigned U.S. Army 1838, appointed 1861Captain of Artillery Army of Tennessee, promoted in 1862 to Major of Artillery C.S.A. for bravery on battlefield of Shiloh and transferred to staff of Gen. Leonidas Polk. He was buried by the Company in 1875.
Lieutenant (1st) E. F. Falconet; formed a cavalry company at expiration of Battery’s enlistment. He attained rank of Major of Cavalry by war’s end. Buried by the Company Oct. 14, 1887.
Lieutenant (2nd) Mark S. Cockrell; detailed to ordnance duty at end of Battery’s enlistment, he attained rank of Captain of Artillery by war’s end.
Lieutenant (3rd) Joe E. Harris; transferred to Cavalry with rank of Lieutenant at expiration of Battery’s enlistment and subsequently deserted.
Lieutenant (4th) Joe C. Wheeler; missing day before Battle of Shiloh.
Sergeant Major George E. Purvis; attained rank of 2nd Lieutenant and survived the war. Died in Virginia, April 04, 1908.
Quartermaster Sergeant Evander McIver; attained rank of Captain and survived war.
Commissary Sergeant S. L. Findley; attained rank of Captain, killed at Battle of Nashville.
Sergeant Frank Johnson; joined Cavalry at expiration of Battery’s enlistment, promoted to Captain and survived the war. Settled in Jackson, Mississippi.
Sergeant George W. Trabue; survived the war, buried by the Company in 1884 in Confederate Circle.
Sergeant John B. Lang; buried by the Company in 1886 in Confederate Circle.
Sergeant C. G. Bellsnyder; transferred to cavalry at end of Battery’s enlistment. He attained rank of 1st Lieutenant of Cavalry, survived the war and settled in Birmingham, Alabama.
Sergeant James A. Hadley; transferred to cavalry at end of Battery’s enlistment.
Guidon J. Pillow Humphreys; transferred to cavalry as Corporal, buried Mt. Olivet Cemetery, Nashville, 1894.
Corporal Ferdinand C. Hadley; transferred to cavalry promoted to Lieutenant, died Feb 21, 1905.
Corporal Henry Duffin; transferred to cavalry, promoted to Lieutenant, killed West Tennessee in 1863.
Corporal Alfred Hughley; captured at Shiloh 1862, died in prison.
Corporal James Nelson; promoted to Sergeant, killed 1862 at Port Hudson.
Corporal Richard Murray; promoted to Sergeant, deserted to U.S. Army.
Corporal A. P. Moore; promoted to Sergeant, killed at Bentonville.
Corporal Joe H. Hough; promoted to Sergeant, died November 26, 1903.
Corporal Bradford Nichol; promoted to 2nd Lieutenant Artillery for actions at Shiloh, detailed to Ordnance and attained rank of Major, died in Nashville 1913, author of diary from which this data copied.
Corporal Harry D. Martin; transferred to infantry, attained rank of Lieutenant, dropped dead in 1891 and was buried by Company.
Corporal W. H. McLemore; attained rank of Lieutenant Artillery, living Tullahoma, Tennessee, 1911.
Corporal Sylvanus Avery; died in hospital 1862.
Corporal J. H. Lumsden; promoted to Sergeant, killed Vicksburg 1863.
Corporal John M. Jordon; transferred to Ward’s Mississippi Battery in Virginia and surrendered at Appomattox Courthouse 1865, became a Methodist minister after the war.
Bugler J. F. M. Turner; killed at Shiloh.
Bugler A.S. Smith; transferred to Mobile Heavy Artillery, killed Kingston, North Carolina 1865.
Artificer Dick Dalton; died April 1862
Artificer Forence Dugan; transferred to McClung Battery, died in prison 1862.
Artificer John A. McMaster; transferred to Heavy Artillery Vicksburg, killed in battle 1862
Artificer J. D. Kerrigan; deserted at Shiloh to U.S. Infantry
Artificer James Webb; died suddenly Fayetteville 1885
Artificer John Oscar; living Ashville, North Carolina, 1904
Private John F. Alexander; transferred to McClung Battery, promoted to Sergeant, died Dickinson, Tennessee., Aug. 17, 1903.
Private John S. Austin; killed by Stokes Cavalry.
Private James R. Allen; killed at Shiloh.
Private John W. Allen; became a minister after war, died 1901 in Illinois.
Private George S. Allen; survived the war and became a became a physician.
Private King J. Anthony; Argenta, Arkansas
Private Dan Breen; transferred to Mobile Heavy Artillery, died Confederate Asylum 1905.
Private Tim Broderie; shot at Battle of Mill Springs and discharged.
Private Thomas Bogle; died Mobile 1862.
Private John M. Brushingham; drowned crossing river at Battle of Mill Springs.
Private J. Mike Burke; died 1911.
Private John Bohannon; survived the war, living Nashville’s 1st Ward 1896.
Private D. J. Ben Bragg; died in Petersburg, Tennessee
Private Thomas B. Ballow; promoted to Sergeant Artillery, lived Joelton, killed accidentally March 5, 1912.
Private William Bunn; killed Shiloh.
Surgeon and Dr. Or. Becker; promoted to Captain and died in service.
Private J. B. Biggers; died Chapel Hill 1900.
Private D. A. Biggers; transferred to Heavy Artillery Vicksburg, died Texas 1899
Private Joe Bowers; transferred to McClung Battery, died of wound received Battle of Franklin.
Private J. H. Cullom; transferred to McClung Battery, promoted to Sergeant, became a minister after war, died Warner, Tennessee, 1900.
Private Larry Conway; transferred to Mobile Heavy Artillery, killed Mobile.
Private T. John Conway; transferred to Mobile Heavy Artillery, killed Mobile.
Private T. Cosgrove; killed Earlington 1865.
Private I. Clack; killed at Thompson Station.
Private B. Coyne; living Jackson, Mississippi in 1891.
Private Johnnie Cannon; transferred to Mobile Heavy Artillery, killed Mobile Bay.
Private Will Cowan; shot at Cumberland Gap 1862.
Private J. W. Curley; transferred to Mobile Heavy Artillery, died in hospital Mobile May 1862.
Private Sam Carter; killed in drunk Knoxville.
Private D. B. Chapman; transferred to cavalry, died 1900.
Private W. Claunch; transferred to cavalry, died September 16, 1881.
Private James Currin; died August 10, 1870.
Private Dick Clouston; transferred to cavalry, promoted to Captain, died Franklin, Tennessee, 1873.
Private J. D. Carter; discharged ill health.
Private James Lewis Cook; died of wound in runaway November 23, 1861.
Private Christopher Darby; transferred to Heavy Artillery Vicksburg, died Vicksburg.
Private Matt Derry; discharged Mobile.
Private Pat Downey; transferred to Heavy Artillery Vicksburg, killed Vicksburg.
Private J. Mike Dulanty; transferred to Mobile Heavy Artillery, attached battery at Sabine Pass, Nashville 1895.
Private Wm. Dobbs; killed Mobile Bay.
Private J. W. Devore; captured Shiloh, died in prison camp.
Private J. D. Davidson; transferred to cavalry, wounded and died 1864.
Private John Davis; deserted at Knoxville, later found guarding U. S. penitentiary.
Private Al Dozier; transfered to Mobile Heavy Artillery.
Private John M. Elliott; transferred to McClung Battery and later to cavalry, promoted to Captain of Cavalry, died Ashland City 1899.
Private Will Elliott; transferred to McClung Battery, died Camp Douglass.
Private W. L. Ewing; transferred to McClung Battery and later cavalry, promoted to Captain Cavalry, dropped dead in church, Franklin.
Private Martin P. French; deserted, killed in U.S Army and recognized.
Private John Fulghum; transferred to MCClung Battery, died Pegram, Tennessee, February 1889.
Private John Albert Fulgham; transferred to Heavy Artillery Vicksburg, killed Vicksburg.
Private John Forehand; died Dickson 1869
Private Adam H. Gross; Nashville
Private Jack Goodwin: deserted and joined U.S. Army, thief and highway robber, died in the penitentiary.
Private John Griffin; discharged ill health
Private Lewis M. Gray; transferred to cavalry, 70 years old in 1863.
Private Robert Grill__(sp?); transferred to cavalry, died 1899.
Private Corum Galum; wounded at Shiloh, transferred to cavalry, died 1867.
Private John Haley; killed at Shiloh.
Private Pat Haley; transferred to Mobile Heavy Artillery, killed at Mobile.
Private Mike Haley; transferred to Heavy Artillery Vicksburg, died at Vicksburg Hospital.
Private J. M. Hall; transferred to cavalry, died in hospital 1864.
Private L. W. Hall; transferred to cavalry, killed in front of Nashville December 1864.
Private Michael Hennessy; transferred to Mobile Heavy Artillery, killed in Battle of Mobile.
Private John Hennessy; transferred to Mobile Heavy Artillery, participated in Battle of Sabine Pass Sept.8,1863, living New York 1890, died 1900.
Private Pat Hennessy; killed at Shiloh.
Private J.H. Hill; 73 years old in 1865.
Private Menifee Huston; promoted to Lieutenant of Artillery, died Louisville 1868.
Private Robert Herbert; transferred to cavalry, became M.D. after war, living Aspen Hill, Giles Co., Tennessee in 1904.
Private John S. Hadley; trandferred to cavalry, captured & hung by Federals at Springhill.
Private John Rusty Hooper; transferred to McClung Battery, Junction, Tennessee.
Private James Hicks; transferred to McClung Battery, deserted, lives at Shelbyville, Tennessee.
Private Calib Hooper; transferred to McClung Battery, survived the war, lived Ashland City.
Private J. Medicus Hooper; transferred to McClung Battery, died July 1900.
Private George W. Hooper; died in Verona, Mississippi, buried by __________
Private Thomas Humphlet; transferred to cavalry, killed in Kentucky.
Private J. Harvey Humphlet; transferred to cavalry, died in hospital.
Private J. Howell Humphlet; transferred to McClung Battery, died in hospital.
Private J. Henry Humphlet; transferred to McClung Battery, died in hospital.
Private J. Madison Humphlet; transferred to cavalry, died December 10, 1864.
Private T. Zeke Jones; transferred to McClung Battery, killed at Morristown.
Private James Jones; transferred to McClung Battery, drowned Galveston, Texas, 1901.
Private Michael Joyce; deserted and joined U.S. Army.
Private J.L. Jean; transferred to cavalry, died 1865.
Private J. Newton Jones; transferred to McClung Battery, promoted to Sergeant, lived Pegram, Tenn.
Private J.T. Kiefe; transferred to cavalry, subsequently deserted.
Private John Kelly; transferred to Mobile Heavy Artillery, dead by 1901
Private Pat Keating; transferred to Heavy Artillery Vicksburg, Mississippi, killed Port Hudson.
Private Thomas Kirby; transferred to Mobile Heavy Artillery, killed Mobile Battery.
Private Thomas Leonard; transferred to Mobile Heavy Artillery, killed Mobile Battery.
Private M. Jack Looney; transferred to McClung Battery, discharged from there 1865.
Private David Lyn; died near Monticello, Kentucky, January 16, 1863.
Private Dan R. Lovell; transferred to McClung Battery, killed R.R. accident 1869.
Private Mike Martin; transferred to Vicksburg Heavy Artillery, living Nashville 1901.
Private Pat Martin; transferred to Vicksburg Heavy Artillery, died July 1898.
Private Patsey Mack; transferred to Mobile Heavy Artillery.
Private Joe Marry; promoted to corporal, deserted, killed in Yankee Army, Burke saw his body.
Private Joe Monteville;
Private John Moran; transferred to McClung Battery, lost an arm, found dead in bed Nashville, Feb 1909.
Private Pattie Moran; transferred to Mobile Heavy Artillery, living at Clarksville 1909.
Private Joe H. Marbury; transferred to McClung Battery, died Bozeman, Ala. 1895.
Private E. M. Moss; transferred to cavalry, hanged in Indiana 1866.
Private Hardy Maney; transferred to cavalry, died Auburn 1882.
Private John McAdams; transferred to cavalry, discharged.
Private J. Dave McAdams; transferred to cavalry, killed Mobile Battery.
Private Hugh McAffry; transferred to Mobile Heavy Artillery, killed Spanish Island, Mobile.
Private John McCormick; transferred to Mobile Heavy Artillery, in penitentiary 1868.
Private Dan McCormick; transferred to Mobile Heavy Artillery, Wilmington, N.C.
Private Pat McHale; transferred to Mobile Heavy Artillery, killed blockade running.
Private F. McNamara
Private Matt McGuire; transferred to McClung Battery.
Private Eddie McGuire; transferred to McClung Battery, died Clarksville 1886.
Private J. Hugh Netherland; transferred to McClung Battery, died 1866 Humphreys County.
Private Dan Nedham; transferred to cavalry, killed Bentonville, N.C.
Private Davi Nagle; married in Cincinnati, Ohio, 1868.
Private Martin Naughton; transferred to Mobile Heavy Artillery.
Private William O'Neil; discharged from McClung Battery 1865.
Private M. Patten; 26th Tennessee Infantry, killed Atlanta, July 22, 1863.
Private M. J. Phenie; transferred to cavalry, died Petersburg 1891
Private Uriah Peebles; transferred to cavalry, promoted to 1st Lieut., found dead in bed Sept. 2, 1895.
Private R. Turner Perry; transferred to cavalry, Turnersville.
Private James J. Perry; wounded in Shiloh for life.
Private Will Thomas Perry; transferred to McClung Battery, Nashville 1902.
Private Frank Riley; transferred to Mobile Heavy Artillery, killed New Orleans 1868
Private Thomas C. Rook; transferred to McClung Battery, died April ’97, buried by the Battery.
Private Robert Reynolds; transferred to cavalry.
Private Hosey Satterfield; transferred to McClung Battery, died cancer of mouth 1890.
Private Tom Sullivan; transferred to Mobile Heavy Artillery, in Sabine Pass Battle, Sept 8,1863, See page 337, Vol. 4, The Confederate Veteran.
Private Mike Sullivan; transferred to Mobile Heavy Artillery, in Sabine Pass Battle, Sept. 8, 1863.
Private Steve Sasser; transferred to Heavy Artillery Vicksburg, left in Camp Douglass 1864
Private Thos. Sasser; died wounded in Shiloh 1863
Private John M. Sheen; transferred to Heavy Artillery Vicksburg.
Private Henry T. Sheridan; transferred to Heavy Artillery Vicksburg, died Jackson Miss. Hospital
Private Ned D. Royster; transferred to cavalry, captured by bush-whackers and hanged as a spy
Private Pat Rollins; transferred to cavalry, killed _____.
Private S. C. Swan; transferred to cavalry, killed West Tenn 1863
Private Alford Smith; transferred to McClung Battery, wounded 1865 Antioch, Tenn.
Private W. C. Smith; transferred to Heavy Artillery Vicksburg, died Camp Douglas
Private W. J. Smith; transferred to Mobile Heavy Artillery
Private J. J. Sugg; transferred to cavalry, died Bellbuckle 1886
Private B. F. Sutliff; transferredto cavalry, died Fayetteville 1869
Private J. Tierney; transferred to cavalry, in California 1881, Rich.
Private E. P. Triber; missed at Cumberland Ford
Private Thomas Tierney; captured at Mill Springs, Ky
Private Milton Vick; died Atlanta Hospital 1862.
Private Jack Wynn; Nashville, died March 1902 in Ky. so says his brother
Private James W. Weets; transferred to cavalry.
Private J. C. White; transferred to cavalry, died Camp Douglass
Private Archer Wilson; transferred to cavalry.
Private Will L. Work; age 81, wounded in Shiloh, died Jun 28, 1912.
Private Robert Work; died in Prison
Private Sandy D. Work; transferred to cavalry, died in Ashland City 1901
Private John Yeaden; transferred to cavalry, died Camp Douglas 1864.
Private Robert Estes; 20th Tenn. Inf. Reg’t. Detail in Shiloh
Private Lee Newsom; 20th Tenn. Inf. Reg’t. Detail in Shiloh
Private J. H. West; 20th Tenn. Inf. Reg’t. Detail in Shiloh
Private A. Lee; 20th Tenn. Inf. Reg’t. Detail in Shiloh
Private J. W. Sampson; 20th Tenn. Inf. Reg’t. Detail in Shiloh
Private A. Craighead; 20th Tenn. Inf. Reg’t. Detail in Shiloh
Private Joe Munday; 20th Tenn. Inf. Reg’t. Detail in Shiloh
Private Burton Neighbors; 20th Tenn. Inf. Reg’t. Detail in Shiloh
Private Robert Hallum; promoted to Sergeant, transferred to Fort Henry, killed .
Private Joe H. Hooper; not dead or accounted for.
Notes: See page 337, Volume 4, Confederate Veteran, where many of above joined.
Journal
of Rutledge Battery
Co. A. 1st. Tenn Artillery from July
19, 1861 to end
In one's life there are certain periods, the acts of which, of all things he desires a record that those coming after may perchance profit by. Among these and possibly the chieftest is when he leaves home and dearest associations and branches out into the wide unknown, unfeeling world. Scarce second to this, when he tears himself aloof from endearing ties and hastens off in defence of Political and Religious Liberty.
Having made arrangements with Lieut. Mark S. Cockrill on May 13th last, to go and follow the fortunes of his, (Rutledge Battery) when it should be called to war, in the meantime I to pursue my usual association as a clerk with Thompson and Co. until it became necessary to discontinue such and repair to company barracks. Announcement was made today and determination reached as they were called to Virginia.
To this end I prepared for and entered Co. A. 1st Tenn. Artillery at Camp Weakley, Davidson Co., three miles East of Nashville. It rained exceedingly hard all night.
July 19,
1861
Slept on ground without blankets and
got through the night as best I could.
Saturday,
July 20th
Left Camp Weakley at 6 A.M. Destination supposed to be
Virginia. Passed through Nashville receiving cheers from
all quarters. Arrived at the Nash and Chatta R Road where
we meet many friends. Received a bountiful lunch for all
parties from Mrs. General Robert C. Foster, 3rd. After a
hasty adieu, we left Nashville for the wars at 9:30 A.M.
All day thoughts of home would rush over my mind and not
seldom I feared our family group would be broken ere I
again could return to them.
Sunday, July
21st
Jogging still on train. Our
chieftest employment receiving plaudits, billet-doux and
bouquets from unknown admirers along the road. Rations
for breakfast dinner and supper raw middling and bakers
bread. Arrived at Knoxville at dark and here awaited
orders from General Sam R. Anderson. Still raining hard.
We were compelled to do without coffee owing to the
incessant downpour. The Capt. (A. M. Rutledge) thinks
that the army is fighting in Virginia. The wires are very
silent on the subject.
July 22nd
Yet raining. No orders from General
Anderson. Compelled to remain cooped up on account of the
weather. Much excitement occasioned by news from a battle
at Manassas Gap. Much disappointment manifested at not
being present. Had coffee to wash down bacon and baker's
bread, no sugar nor milk. Visited the City of Knoxville,
walking round extensively finding Brownlows' Whig office
after considerably enquiry. 'Twas in a dirty black alley
on the River Bank. Purchased a copy of his sheet and put
back to train. 9 P.M. No comfort, no blanket, no bed,
nothing here but rain.
July 23rd
Raining yet. No orders from General
Anderson. Excitement still intense owing to further news
from Manassas. Rations same as two days past. Attempting
to leave the train proved too big a job. My prison was
better than none. Captain seems exceedingly anxious to
leave here and appears apprehensive that we may remain
here for some time. The 1st Tenn Infantry was a day too
late for the fight at Manassas.
July 24th,
1861
Ceased raining. All are expecting an
early dispatch from our General. Breakfast on train, one
hard cracker and a half cup of coffee without sugar or
cream. Burnt coffee at that. At noon we received an order
from General Anderson to camp near Knoxville until we
could be fully equipped and then report at Lynchburg, Va.
Left train at 3 P.M. and arrived at camp two miles East
of Knoxville at 5 P.M. Pitched tents and without ditching
them lay down to rest ourselves at 8:30 having ate
neither dinner nor supper. At 2 A.M. awakened by rain,
arose and with my comrades Joe Hough and Bill McLemore
stood up to see the amusing feat of the water flowing
over our humble bed. Stood this racket until daybreak,
when the rain ceased greatly to our satisfaction.
July 25th
Clear and pleasant altho somewhat
warm. The young ladies of Knoxville hearing of our
arrival, fitted out an elegant repast and we with the
infantry at the camp (Cummings) proceeded to a fine
woodland nearby and there had a glorious picnic. Here we
met a large representation of the better class of ladies
of Knox County. Had a most agreeable time with Miss
Loudes, formerly a pupil of Nash. Female Academy. Misses
A. and L. White, sisters of Moses White, Octavia Owen,
Sallie and Sophia Kennedy. Liddie and Lizzie Luttrell,
Lovlie Bostwick and others. 7:30 P.M. Returned tired but
by no means hungry. We ditched our tent and although the
ground was wet (which only made a good soft bed, - I
threw myself down and enjoyed a delighted rest in the
hands of Judge Morpheus.
July 26th
Carried my detachment to the woods
to cut brushwood and poles in order to erect shelters for
the horses and mules belonging to the Battery.
July 27th
Instead of detailing me for pole
gathering Sergeant Geo. W. Trabue and detachment
performed that duty, whilst mine in union with Sergt. Kit
Bellsnyder all under supervision of Sergt. John B. Lang
were detained putting up the awkward construction, which
will prove a beauty. I hope.
Sunday July
28th 1861
Putting our best duds, viz, a clean
gray flannel shirt, red jeans pants, and gray coat of
like fabric, whilst my shoes were unblackened. I rode to
Knoxville and there attended services at the 2nd
Presbyterian Church, by the by a beautiful edifice, and
listened to a very excellent sermon from the Rev. Dr.
Martin, who in his concluding prayer used the expression,
"Grant Lord, that the unhallowed feet of Horace
Maynard may never be spared to return and pollute the
sacred soil of his native State Dear Tennessee."
Mrs. Maynard was within ten feet of him when he made this
prayer. Thus passed this Sunday of Camp life.
July 29th
Went to town on business this
morning. Found a great many friends who I never expected
to meet here. Returned to Camp at 3 P.M. 'Twas raining
throughout the night. News all hurrah from Manassas.
July 30th
Had a battery drill today of 3 hours
duration. Several runaway matches took place on account
of artillery blank cartridge discharges. One of the
drivers received several bruises, no bones broken.
July 31st
Today was repeated the exercises of
drill. We placed a target 6 x 4 ft 845 yards off and
after several unsuccessful trials finally succeeded in
striking it 1 foot from base. The shot was made by Sergt.
Sylvanus Avery.
Thursday
Aug. 1st
Our usual battery drill took place.
Upon returning to camp, I received the first letter from
home. It was from Sister Lizzie, God bless her and
singular too received on her anniversary.
Aug. 2nd
Nothing but drill. Another runaway
thermometer 99 degrees. Powell’s Regt. on guard
duty. 1/2 past ten o'clock wide awake all night.
Aug. 3rd
Very, very warm yet. Still we were
compelled to drill for three hours in the morning and a
repetition in the afternoon. Letter from Mama.
Sunday Aug.
4th
Attended service twice today in
Camp. Called on Capt. Bradford of Cavalry, Geo. Trabue
and Frank Johnson had letters from Nashville.
Aug. 5th
Regular bored old drill. Sure I am
getting pretty tired of riding double quick on a trotting
horse for six hours daily.
Aug. 6th
Went to Knoxville and called on Miss
Octavia Owen. Delightful visit. Came back to camp with
two large watermelons.
Aug. 7th
Nothing of note happened today, save
that our sheds collapsed during a heavy storm, causing
the horses to break loose.
Aug. 8th
I am the Hon-Corporal of the guard
today. My initiation. Arrested a fellow from
Cummings’ Regiment and he became so boisterous I
tied him hand and foot.
Aug. 9th
Drilled in mounting cannoneers and
dismounting same. Sergeant Hallum obtained a transfer
from our company to one at Fort Henry on Tennessee River.
Luck to you Hal.
Aug. 10th
We enjoyed an excellent repast of
vegetables today for dinner. Our mess disposed actually
of four water melons.
Sunday, Aug
11th
We had preaching a few feet back of
our tents twice today. One of our drivers (Triber)
arrested in town last night for drunkenness.
Aug. 12th
Notwithstanding, the very oppressive
weather the detestable bugle blew at its regular hour for
Company drill. After keeping us out three hours and a
half, we were graciously allowed the supreme privilege of
returning to our camp and partake of cornbread and
middling.
Aug. 13th
Cloudy. Thermometer 100 degrees in
shade. Seemingly no near chance of leaving these horrid
quarters.
Aug. 14th
Slight shower this afternoon. Some
whisper of leaving here but not believed by anyone for
often have we been fooled and disappointed by promises to
take us to Virginia.
Aug. 15th
Lieut. Joe C. Wheeler of our company
arrived from Nashville with a big bundle of eatables for
me, much to my utter surprise and enjoyment.
Aug. 16th
There is a great flurry in camp this
evening. We are making ready to leave for Virginia soon
in the morning. I packed my extensive wardrobe in a
carpet bag and having cleared out and loaded my Navy, I
had nothing to do but retire after finishing a supper of
nice biscuits (a vanity here) coffee, middling, and
buttermilk. At 11 o'clock it was yet raining, it having
begun before 8 P.M.
Aug. 17th
Attended to filling my caisson with
ammunition which consisted of 32 spherical shell 12 pdr,
8 canister, 56 solid 12lb shot. I was detailed to
superintend the striking of tents, harnessing of horses
and packing baggage in the wagons. After a bountiful
repast prepared by the 3rd Section, Lieut Joe E. Harris
commanding, (I belong to the second or Lieut Cockrill
section) we started towards Knoxville, there to meet
Colonel Jas Rains and 11th Tenn. Infantry as our escort
en route. We found the right wing of regiment four miles
north of the city on Mr. Lowdis' farm. Here we camped for
the night. For supper, I had a goodly piece of Irish
light bread, about half cooked, two and a half inches
thick together with several ears of corn that were
borrowed from a neighboring field. All day it has rained
hard, very hard and I forgot my umbrella which I left in
the store on College Street. I made an easy couch on the
wet grass, the rain pelting me in the face for hours
without the least disturbance.
Sunday Aug.
18th
Before sunrise, I made a call on our
friend Miss Lowdis, and had a short but delightful chat.
She insisted on my breakfasting with the family but I
hastened back and saddling (Old Steamboat) my horse I
started off with the company. Rested at a delightful
spring at 1 P.M. where I fried a bit of middling, begged
me a corncake and enjoyed a quiet snack. At 3 P.M. we
resumed march whilst it was yet pouring down rain.
Arrived near Clinch River at dark when I was told the
Artillery would remain until 11 p.m. before they could be
ferried over to Clinton. Delay occurred on account of the
infantry and baggage wagons before us. Being very tired I
dismounted from Old Steamboat and with bridle in hand lay
down in six inches of mud and took a refreshing nap until
one of my drivers awoke me. The heaviest rain was coming
down and being thoroughly drenched we still moved on
until we reached Clinch River which we crossed. Having
climbed the opposite bank, we took possession of the
Courthouse at Clinton where we stored the men. I use this
term for five hundred and fifty men were gotten into two
rooms each one of which were thirty by twenty feet. I
fastened Old Steamboat in a stable nearby and took myself
off to a Union Hotel. Here I got a supper at 11:45 and
went to my room. The landlord kindly furnished Bill
McLemore and I with a feather bed but not a wink did we
sleep. There were other occupants there besides Rebel
soldiers. Many thousand East Tennessee Lincolnites
dressed red coats and every mothers son armed with one or
more sharp javelins took the liberty of troubling our
rest by running over us shamefully. I could easily
distinguish them from friends. They were no larger than
green peas, yet for biting and fighting they couldn't be
beat in the State. 'Tis affirmed by knowing ones.
Aug. 19th
Raining yet. At daybreak, McLemore
and I destroyed many of our foes. He helped them off from
me and I assisted him in unloading his burden. After
breakfasting and saddling Old Steamboat and paying sixty
cents for supper, bug-etty bed and breakfast we left
Clinton. Rain! Rain! Rain all day! At night we halted at
a fine old Southern farm. The gentleman very liberally
offered us his barn for quarters. The horses were tied to
his yard fence, save McLemore's and mine which by his
permit we fastened in his empty corncrib. Not long did
they remain inside for break their halters they did and
received what their master didn't, viz, a fine green corn
supper. Not finding anything to eat McLemore and I spread
my India blanket on a heap of shingles in the rain and
accrued a rest of several hours.
Aug. 20th
At 2:30 A.M. I arose and found Old
Steamboat with eleven of his comrades feasting in the
cornfield. Without very much difficulty I caught all and
having fastened them securely went to the watch fire and
warmed my clothes which by this time were almost frozen.
We left this place at daybreak, having had no supper nor
breakfast. We came across the 1st Section of our company
in Command of Lieut. Falconet encamped near Jacksboro in
Campbell Co. Tenn. At noon we stopped in a field nearby
and ate a small snack and called it by the good old name
of dinner. Here we remained until our pioneers could
clearly ascertain if it were at all possible to pass over
the mountains on our way to Huntsville, Scott Co., Tenn.
Col. Rains and Smith went along up to prove the route. At
night, he had not returned. If find myself again with
Harry D. Martin and Old Joe Hough who quickly invited us
old mess mates to participate in their hospitality. Joe
has his old negro cook Jim along to do the essentials. We
really needed no second invitation. They gave us a good
dry tent, dry change of clothes and better still plenty
to eat.
Aug. 21st
Being advised that I with several
others might ascend the mountains, we made an early
start. In two hours time, I was clearly in the prettiest
spot in Tennessee. On the summit of Mount Furlough, I
beheld the Blue Ridge of Nor. Carolina. One hundred and
twenty miles off, besides Knoxville, forty-two miles
distance. Here vales of greatest beauty and fertility
were before me. At the foot of this fairy like mount, I
drank from six different fountains. Red, blue, black and
white sulphur, the fifth chalybeate and freestone spring
is a natural bath, a waterfall of great volume descending
nine feet. Having partially satisfied my curiosity in
regard to this garden spot, I returned to camp.
Aug. 22nd
Two of Col. Rains wagons succeeded
in crossing the mountains this morning by reducing loads
and doubling their teams.
Aug. 23rd
Stayed in camp and enjoyed rest.
Aug. 24th
Raining! A soldier borne on a rail
passed up and down our streets supported by a detail who
along with him imbibed of whiskey. The former too freely
for his own good. The double quick movement was decidedly
the funniest portion of the punishment program. We of the
2nd Section were today attached to Battle’s 20th
Tenn. Regiment. This is how a stubborn fellow who
insulted Col. Battle fared. He was secured hand and foot
and with a bayonet fastened in his mouth as a bit, he
passed the guard tent all day long. We have plenty of
fruit in camp now. Each officer of our company procured a
bag of peaches for his tent. We are all sick from
overeating.
Aug. 25th
Nothing of note. Drilled, of course.
Aug. 26th
Nothing of note. No drill today.
Aug. 27th
The Rain! The Rain! The Drenching
Rain! I hate its untimely patter as it strikes my tent
above, singing, splatter! splatter! splatter! All the day
long rain has poured in unending torrents until our
soldier housetops seem no longer able to resist the
temptation to weep, thereby forcing us to our custom of
tip-toe 'til the ground beneath shall have drank its
copious draught of fluid. We were not able to drill owing
to unfavorable weather.
Aug. 28th
Continual downpours. We find its
quite impracticable to leave quarters save at bugle call
to grub.
Aug. 29th
Nothing unusual today. At night we
were informed of a certain man, Kelsoe, who was accused
of being a spy. Said Kelsoe having come across the
Cumberland Mountains near Big Creek Gap about dark with
fifteen well armed cavalrymen. At nine o'clock P.M.,
Lieut. Falconet, with nine of our men, viz, Trabue,
Martin, Bellsnyder, Cockrill, Hough, McLemore, Marbury,
Hadley, myself, and Lieut Will Demoss of the 20th Tenn
Regt. with a like number, proceeded in route for Kelsoe's
quarters - four miles off. Through many dark windings and
yet darker woods, we were carried by our guide, until we
at last were informed we were within three hundred yards
of his house. On the route, an accident (funny after it's
all over) occurred. Dr. Demoss by some means learned that
Joe Hough was possessed of a canteen of extra good ole
Rye. He wanted it badly but being aware of the danger of
loud speech, whispered to the man in his rear (you see we
were in single file. The Lieuts. in front and Hough
delegated to guard the rear from surprise), "I
say", Lieut. Demoss whispered, "Hough to the
front - pass it down" -- Along the whisper came in
solemn, sad and serious tone -- "Hough to the
front". Reaching him, Geo. Trabue says, Joe fairly
shook and said George, "It's all over with me, but
if I go tell my ma I died a brave boy facing the
enemy." He took ole "Rosenantie", steed to
Joe, and slowly made to the head of the column. When he
reached it what relief and chagrin was in store for him
for Lieut. Demoss simply but naturally asked him for a
drink - only that and nothing more. Still 'tis not safe
for you to quote Joe and George's conversation for Joe
will fight sure and certain. Well here we dismounted and
soon posted sentinels. This was surely amusing. Over a
fence on our left crept Fred Hadley, Frank Johnson and a
20th boy. When they found to their astonishment they had
gotten into a watermelon patch. Frank, thinking it a
rock, mounted a melon to find it burst beneath its
dignified load. The men being carefully in place, a
portion of the infantry went softly to the door. At the
concerted whistle Lieut. Demoss in thunder-like tone gave
command "Charge Bayonets"! When in went the
door with a crash. Not without some trouble were our
birds to be caught. Out of the back door, Kelsoe and two
of his men ran. The others had gone on further to camp
for the night. The nights being very dark, they fell on
their hands and feet and crawled for some distance by the
infantry to within several feet of our artillery guard.
Sergt. Kit Bellsnyder being in the qui vive heard and
spied them and astounded the gents with a "Halt!
Surrender or Die". At this juncture, Lieut. Falconet
who happened nearby slipped forward and with his dark
lantern in hand approached within a foot of Captain
Kelsoe and suddenly opening it presented a Navy Pistol to
his breast, at the same time ordering him to raise hand
and surrender. Having secured these three men we placed
them on and tied them to our steeds and returned to camp
full of Joy at this first success as sure enough soldiers
of the C.S. Capt. Kelsoe, we are informed by one of the
captives, is the legal Captain of one hundred and four
men in the U.S. Service.
Aug. 30th
In company with McLemore and
Bellsnyder at 9 P.M., I put on a fishing excursion
remaining until 3:30 P.M. with moderate success. Full of
mud and mighty hungry. Jim Hough compensated with a snug
tip-top dinner.
Aug. 31st
The shock of an earthquake awakened
me at 5:30. McLemore says it turned over his cot and
rolled him out nearly breaking his neck against the
ground.
Sunday,
Sept. 1st
Before daybreak, Geo Purvis, Col.
Battle, Harry Martin, Kit Bellsnyder, Jack Land and I
rode up the mountain to see for the first time in our
travels sunrise from such a great elevation. Having
arrived at a spot appropriate for so august a scene, we
in mute silence gazed at such a sight as mortal man is
not gifted to describe. The fog which had arisen quite
near our point seemed for a hundred miles distant, like a
massive field of ice, save here and there on the highest
peaks, might be seen a few trees appearing as islands
sitting on a calm sea. Truly indeed may Campbell County
be called the very Switzerland of America.
Sept 2nd
The boys selected me as chief of
mess this morning. Took up my first collection, $6.00,
which I at once invested in chicken eggs, butter and
onions.
Sept 3rd
Took a trip into the country,
looking for vegetables; found none. Cool and pleasant.
Drilled this afternoon 3 hours.
Sept 4th
At 9 o'clock McLemore and I took
trip across the country to Esq. Gross' for the purpose of
purchasing Harness oil. Had a fine old time. The distance
is 5 miles. Lost our way and made it in 9 miles. Through
the woods we went with nothing but a hog path as guide.
Caught in rain returning. Found a good supper all ready.
Sept 5th
The left wing of Col. Battle's 20th
Tenn. Regiment arrived in camp from Knoxville, bringing
to our company several recruits and expired furlough
soldiers, newspapers, letters and packages from home.
Battery drill this afternoon.
Sept 6th
After breakfast, Frank Johnson went
with me to help bring in apples, chickens eggs, and
butter I had purchased of Mrs. Sharp for our mess. I
broke two eggs in my basket, making an ugly mess of my
butter. Arrived at camp hungry and tired. A fine sleep
and yet better dinner refreshed and prepared me for the
usual afternoon Battery drill.
Sept 7th
Drilled for 3 hours this a.m. Very
hot. Quite dull.
Sunday, Sept
8th
Arose at 4 a.m. Took a long walk up
the mountains. Attended service under the large Elm near
camp conducted by Rev. Fountain E. Pitts. The text was
"Righteousness exalteth a nation for sin is a
reproach to any people". After Dr. Pitts concluded
to hold a night service directly in front of my tent, I
only seated myself on Geo. Purvis' trunk to listen. Text
on this occasion, "Marvel not that I say unto you,
you must be born again." A most impressive sermon it
was, not an eye but had its' tear to shed. Many a brave
heart returned to his tent resolved to cease swearing and
live for God.
Sept 9th
Expecting anxiously orders from our
General F.K. Zollicoffer to move forward.
Sept 10th
Rec'd intelligence that we leave
here for Cumberland Gap where it is supposed we will meet
the enemy reported near there 3,000 strong.
Sept 11th
Orders read at revielle to the
effect to have tents and contents in portable condition
by 7 a.m. Rode off post-haste to Jacksboro to engage
conveyances. On account of a heavy rain, we were detained
until noon, when after taking Phoenix to the hospital, we
started. No more than a mile from camp, the rain
commenced afresh and so continued for several hours. At 6
P.M. we halted for the night at an exceedingly muddy
place where no suitable water could be had to make coffee
or drink. Had to tramp to creek a mile away. We raised
four flies (covers used in army to protect tents) two for
the drivers and two for cannoneers and officers. As room
was scarce, I put down my rubber under five cots and
crawling beneath, lay down to a deep, wet sleep. Head
elevated somewhat across a small ravine. During the night
the water actually flowed above me the obstructed way to
creek.
Sept 12th
We started off at daybreak and
without accidents arrived at camp at dark. A most
beautiful place indeed. The rain had ceased and this was
the first time in two weeks the soldiers could dry their
clothes. Within a few paces of the rear of my tent lies
an old graveyard. The fence worn out by many wintry blast
and summer suns lay in moldering heaps around, whilst
here and there a post more enduring than its fellows,
stand to mark the ground of that hallowed spot, where
rests the sacred dead. In wandering through this
sequested place, I beheld a tombstone of peculiar build
and seemingly one hundred y'rs. old.
Sept 13th
Arrived at Cumberland Gap at 4 P.M.
and after resting, rambled a quarter of mile away, where
I was informed I would find a stone walking around which
would enable me to step into Virginia, Kentucky and into
Tennessee. This I did, having tried I lay down beneath an
old weeping willow and soon found myself in the realms of
forgetfulness. At sundown I got up and returned to camp.
Ate a hurried supper as Lieut. Falconet had an order for
me to execute, viz., it was to go to the Post Office four
miles off. I did so through a very dark night and yet
darker woods. Had some sport out of a cavalryman coming
back whom I halted and scared nearly to death.
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The firing cannon graphic at the top of this page was created by Chris Tramel, [email protected] . It is displayed here by courtesy of the Sons of Confederate Veterans, Tennessee Division, Camp 1513. Reinactment Camp1513/