Daily Journal
George N. Buhrer
Company
E, Cal Battalion - 2nd Massachusetts Cavalry
Daily
Journal since my enlistment in the service
of the U. St. Cavalry Volunteers at San
Francisco, California.
[Journal of the Year 1865]
Sunday January 1.
Relieved
from guard at 10 A.M. Corp. Wyatt promoted to a Sergeant to date from the 1th of
November 1864. W. Moore to be a Corp. from same date.
Monday 2.
About
camp, cleaning up my Equipments etc. Weather quite pleasant.
Tuesday 3.
Passed
the day of in writing and reading. Part of our brigade on picket duty. Weather
cold, snowing.
Wednesday 4.
Detailed
for guard at 10 A.M. Nothing going on
Thursday 5.
Co.
E relieved from Provo duty, by Co. J. We are all busy moving to the regiment,
are puting up stokade tents there is from four to five in a tent. Weather mild.
Friday 6.
We
worked on our tent till about10 A.M. Sargett, Moore, Stevenson and my comrade H.
Wyatt, and myself are together. We put the cover on, build part of the fireplace
and put up bedsteads, are quite comfortable. P.M. weather bad, raining hard.
Saturday 7.
Sgt.
Wyatt left us to go on a furlough. Ten men out of Co. E detailed for picket
duty. We could not do much work about our tent; weather to bad, snowing &
storming nearly all day, turned cold towards night, night very cold. Had five
days rations issued.
Sunday 8.
In
camp all day, not doing anything about our tent. Wood is scarce about camp, we
carried some on our backs about a half of a mile. Most of the men to work on
their quarters. Weather cold.
Monday 9.
Worked
some on our tent, fixed a door etc. One Sgt. and three men detailed for picket.
Weather very cold, more mild towards night, rain & sleet during the night.
It is hard to get wood, we have no teams to haul wood for us.
Tuesday 10.
Detailed
for camp guard at 8 A.M. Fifteen men for guard, two of Co. E. Guard duty light,
A.M. weather rainy. P.M. cleared up, cold at night.
Wednesday 11.
Relieved
from guard at 8 A.M. Done a little work about our tent. Corp. Moore & five
men detailed for picket. Some of the men busy getting brush to fix around our
stable. Weather clear & cold.
Thursday 12.
Detailed
to work on our stable; weather quite pleasant. P.M., Sgt. Turner and Private
Garity returned to the Co; they are well and hearty considering they went in a
southern prison.
Friday 13.
Worked
on our tent A.M. P.M. on police duty. Three of our Co. for picket. Weather quite
pleasant.
Saturday 14.
We
finished our chimney etc. Our tent is now the most comfortable on the line; the
most of the men are nearly done with their tents. A.M. weather mild, P.M. windy
& getting very cold.
Sunday 15.
Cut
& hauled some wood in the forenoon. P.M. reading & writing. Weather
quite pleasant. Four of our Co. for picket. Death of the Hon. Edward Everett,
one of the greatest Orator and Whriter of America.
Monday 16.
About
camp, done some washing. Nothing going on about camp. Weather cold & windy.
Tuesday 17.
Grand
Review of our Division by Major General Sheridan and Major General Merrit. P.M.
inspection of our arms & quarters by Capt. Dean; all went of well. Fife men
of our Co. for picket. Weather cloudy & cold.
Wednesday 18.
Detailed
for camp guard at 9 A.M. Hauled some wood in the forenoon, had to go nearly a
mile after it. A number of men still to work to build winter quarters. Weather
cloudy & cold.
Thursday 19.
Relieved
from guard at 9 A.M.; about camp all day. Was made a Sergeant to date from
January 1th. Goodfellow was made a Corporal. One Corp & six men of our Co.
detailed for picket. Weather cloudy & cold.
Friday 20.
On
fatique duty P.M. one hundred recruits arrived with them some of our old
comrades that had been in prison. Corp. Mossman, Corp. Jenkins, Pr. Bucker who
had been sick. Twelfe recruits were send to our Co.
Saturday 21
In
camp, passed of the time reading, done some sewing. Four men of the Co. detailed
for picket. Corp. Moore and two men on camp guard. Weather very bad, raining,
sleet, snow and cold.
Sunday 22.
Cut
and hauled some wood, a good day to haul. Weather thawing, rainy night.
Monday 23.
Detailed
for fatique duty, fixed a bridge on the road to Winchester, had twenty men to
work. Weather very bad, raining and snowing nearly all day, cold towards night.
Tuesday 24.
A.M.
hauled some wood, P.M. in camp. No signs of an enemy about here. News from other
departments are very good, the war can not last much longer. Weather very cold.
Wednesday 25.
A.M.
hauled some wood, went about a mile after it. Passed of the afternoon in reading
and writing. Corp. Goodfellow and four men detailed for picket. Weather clear
& cold.
Thursday 26.
In
camp, all quiet about here. I have very easy times. Weather still cold, so far
we had a good deal colder weather, then what we had last winter.
Friday 27.
In
camp. H. Wyatt returned from his furlough.
Saturday 28.
A
party was out to reconnoiter found the enemys picket at Woodstock, had an
engagement, took some prisoners, a superior number attacked our men and retook
their men; our party had seven men killed and some wounded, the enemys lose
about the same. Weather cold.
Sunday 29.
In
camp, nothing going on. Weather still cold.
Monday 30.
About
camp, all quiet here. Weather more mild.
Tuesday 31.
Detailed
for picket. Picket line about three miles from camp. Weather quite pleasant.
Wednesday 1. [February 1865]
Out
on picket, in charge of the pickets, the Outpost is near Newtown, all quiet on
the line, no sign of an enemy. Weather quite pleasant, all quiet during the
night.
Thursday 2.
Relieved
from picket at 10 A.M. returned to camp. Inspection of our horses. Weather quiet
pleasant.
Friday 3.
In
camp, done some washing. Weather bad, snowing & cold. Hood returned from his
furlough.
Saturday 4.
A.M.
Hauled some wood. P.M. drilled our recruits. Weather quite pleasant.
Dissatisfaction in camp, our rations are short, forage short our horses dont get
any hay.
Sunday 5.
In
camp all day. Passed the day of in reading & writing. Weather cold &
very windy. We had some hay for our horses, there is some prospects of getting
hay every day.
Monday 6.
In
camp A.M.; instructing recruits in Carabine drill P.M. Sabre drill. Weather
cold.
Tuesday 7.
In
camp, passed the time of in reading & writing. Weather very bad, snowing
hard all day.
Wednesday
8.
In
camp, snow a foot deep; three men for picket. Weather cold.
Thursday 9.
In
camp. P.M. on Police duty; have to put more brush around our stable.
Friday 10.
In
camp. Inspection of arms; weather cold.
Saturday 11.
About
camp; men to work on the stable, nothing going on; weather still cold.
Sunday 12.
In
camp all quiet about here; passed the day of in writing and reading. Weather
still cold & very windy.
Monday 13.
Detailed
for picket, went to the left of the line, am in the reserfe. Our posts about a
half of a mile from the reserfe. All quiet on the line; weather cold.
Tuesday 14.
Relieved
from picket at 10 A.M. Weather clear & cold. Recieved a letter from home.
Wednesday 15.
In
camp, all quiet about here. Passed the day of in writing. Weather very bad,
raining & snowing nearly all day.
Thursday 16.
In
camp; monthly inspection by Capt. Dean; all went of well. A reconnoitring party
went out. Weather more mild.
Friday 17.
In
camp. A.M. Sabredrill, P.M. Sabredrill Lt. Papanty instructing. Weather cold,
snowing before night. Our stables are in a awfull condition.
Saturday 18.
In
camp. A.M. Carabine drill, P.M. Sabredrill. All quiet about here. Weather more
mild.
Sunday 19.
In
camp. Nothing going on. Weather warm, thawing.
Monday 20.
In
camp. A.M. Sabredrill, P.M. a short drill. A party going out on a scout. Weather
pleasant.
Tuesday 21.
In
camp, Sabredrill as usual. Great rejoycing about the camps here, over the late
Victories.
Wednesday 22.
On
camp guard. Weather bad, raining during the night.
Thursday 23.
About
camp. Some picket firing. Weather bad.
Friday 24.
In
camp, all quiet about here. Drill as usual.
Saturday 25.
Mounted
inspection of our regiment. Under marching orders. Weather bad, rainy.
Sunday 26.
Every
men busy preparing for a march. We expect to leave to morrow. Weather pleasant.
Monday 27.
Reveille
at 3 A.M.; we left camp at 6 A.M. we passed through Newtown, Middletown,
Strasburg, Woodstock, camped near Edinburg. Our scouts captured 4 Confederates
and killed one. Our brigade is in the advance.
Tuesday 28.
Early
in our saddles, passed through Edinburg, Hogantown, Mount Jakson, there we were
detained till late at night, had to build a Pantoon Bridge across the Shanandoah,
we marched till almost morning, passed through Newmarket, camped about 5 miles
from Harrissonburg. Major General Phillip Sheridan
is with us, we are 8000 strong. Weather pleasant.
Wednesday 1.
[March 1865]
We
passed through Harrissonburg, Mount Crawford, Mount Sidney, camped near
Staunton. Our regiment on picket. All quiet on our line. Our advance skirmishing
with the enemy, routed them, capturing men, horses, mules and wagons. Weather
cold.
Thursday 2.
Early
on the march; we passed through Staunton, went into camp near Fisselboro on the
Waynesboro road, it was the worst place for a camp we ever had, a new plowed
field; mud was more then kneedeep. Weather bad, raining more or less nearly all
day. At Waynesboro we had a fight with the enemy, capturing 2500 prisoners, 24
pieces of artillerie, 100 wagons, a number of horses and mules. General Early
had a narrow escape, among the prisoners we had 87 commissioned officers.
Friday 3.
We
passed through Waynesboro, crossed South river, quite deep & swift, we went
over the mountain, through Rockfish Gap, roads are very bad, many horses are
giving out. On brigade is going back with the prisoners also all dismounted men
in all about 3000 men. Weather bad.
Saturday 4.
We
are marching very slow, our brigade wagon guard, it is almost impossible to get
along. The train is scattered for over five miles, we arrived at Ibey Station
about noon, halted for a few hours, went on again went into camp about 5 miles
from Charlottesville. Part of our regiment on picket.
Sunday 5.
Rear
guard for the train, skirmished with the enemy, they trouble us a good deal,
some of our men got captured, we arrived at Charlottesville 3 P.M., camped near
the Town. Part of the Calvary is destroying the R.R., Depots, bridges etc.
Weather quite pleasant.
Monday 6.
Early
in our saddles on the road to Scottsville on the James river canal arrived there
3 P.M., camped near the Town all night. We destroyed some locks etc. below and
above the Town, it was after midnight when we went into camp. Weather pleasant.
Tuesday 7.
Marching
up the canal towards Lynchburg, passed through Howardsville, went into camp near
Newmarket. We destroyed the canal as much as possible. Weather quite pleasant.
Wednesday 8.
Early
in our saddles, my regiment in the advance and flank, we went to Bentcreek,
skirmished with the enemy, returned to Newmarket, it was almost morning when we
went into camp. Weather bad, raining nearly all afternoon and night. Many horses
are giving out, we left over three hundred about Newmarket.
Thursday 9.
Left
Newmarket about noon, marched back to Scottsville, toe path in a awful
condition, it was morning when we arrived at Scottsville. Weather bad.
Friday 10.
We
halted about one hour to feed our horses and cook our breakfast, then commenced
our march again, part of the Calvary marched down the toe path, the rest through
the country, about midnight we went into camp near Colombia, a small place.
Roads very bad, weather more pleasant. A good many negroes leaving the
Plantations are going with us.
Saturday 11.
The
first Division in camp near Colombia, my regiment on picket, all quiet on the
line. Ten days coffee and sugar issued. Weather pleasant.
Sunday 12.
Early
on the march, we passed through Colombia, travelled till after midnight, camped
near the Gordonsville R.R. and Cokooville, a little town. Our advance had a
skirmish with the enemy, and took over two hundred Prisoners. Roads bad at some
places. Weather pleasant.
Monday 13.
Marched
a short distance, destroyed the R.R., burned Frederick Hall Depot; camped near
there all night.
Tuesday 14.
Early
in our saddles my regiment in the advance. Skirmished with the enemy, one of our
scouts killed, we routed the enemy, had a running fight for about 12 miles, took
a Fort at South Anna Bridge with 8 pieces of heavy artillery, three were loaded,
we shelled the enemy as long as we could reach them. At night we camped near
Taylorsville Station.
Wednesday 15.
We
crossed the South Anna, laid there till night, we build some breastworks. G.
Custer had an engagement with the enemy at Ashland, the Confederates have a
heavy force, we are on the march again at dark, marched till almost morning,
camped near North Anna.
Thursday 16.
On
the march, out with a foraging party, like to got losed, had a skirmish with
some guerrillas, they come very near capturing R. Campbell and two more men. It
was about dark, when we joined our regiment, had to go out on picket. Weather
bad, night very stormy & rainy; all quiet during the night.
Friday 17.
About
daylight the guerrillas attacked our outposts, we gave them a warm reception,
they did not trouble us any more, about 9 A.M. we were on the march again, we
passed through Elliotsville, camped near King William Courthouse. Weather cool
& windy.
Saturday 18.
We
arrived at Whitehouse Landing at noon; camped near the river. There is a number
of Transports & three Gunboats in the river. Had forage issued, took a bath
in the river, it was quite cold. We
put up our sheltertents. Weather fine.
Monday 19. (Transcriber's
note: Sunday)
We
crossed the Pamunkey, on a bridge, went into camp again near the river. Had five
days rations issued also one day’s forage. Weather fine.
Monday 20.
In
camp. Inspection of arms & equippments & horses, half of the horses
condemned & send to City Point. We have not the best place for a camp. Wood
is scarce.
Tuesday 21.
In
camp. Dismounted men send to the City Point. 19 of my Co. went, there is now 16
left in all. Some Co. have only a few men left, my regiment is 110 strong.
Weather A.M. windy, P.M. rainy, some rain during the night.
Wednesday 22.
About
camp all day, nothing going on. Weather cool.
Thursday 23.
In
camp; the mailboat arrived, first mail we received since we left Camp Russell. I
received five letters. Weather bad, very windy & cold.
Friday 24.
In
camp, most all the Calvary was paid of. We had 5 days rations issued, no coffee.
Weather cold.
Saturday 25.
Reveille
at 4 A.M. left camp at 6. On our march to Petersburg, camped near Harrissons
Landing. Weather cool & windy.
Sunday 26.
Early
on the march, crossed James river, on a Pantoon at Deep Bottom Bridge, 4 P.M. we
went into camp near Jones Landing. Weather cool & windy.
Monday 27.
On
the march, passed by Rock City Hospitals, crossed the Appomatox at Broadway
Landing, camped near Hancocks Station in front of Petersburg. The enemy’s line
is in sight and only a short distance from here, they shelled our Column as we
marched along. Sharp picket firing during the night. Weather pleasant.
Tuesday 28.
In
camp, we expect to move to morrow, had 15 days rations issued, 5 days to carry
with us, ten days in the wagons. A good deal of artillery and infantry on the
move. Sharp canonading going on during the day, sharp firing during the night.
Wednesday 29.
The
effective force of all the Calvary was as follows: Gen. Merritts command, First
& Third Divisions.....5,700. Gen. Crooks command Second Division.....3,300.
Total effective force....9,000.
Early
in the morning we left our camp, we moved by the way of Reams Station, on the
Weldon Railroad, and Malon’s Crossing, on the Rowanty Creek, where we were
obliged to construct a bridge. At this point our advance encountered a small
picket of the Rebel cavalry, and drove it to the left across Stony Creek,
capturing a few prisoners, from whom we heard that the enemy’s cavalry was at
or near Stony Creek Depot, on the Weldon R.R. on our left Flank & Rear.
After dark we arrived at Dinwiddie Court House, my regiment went on picket, all
quiet during the night. Weather bad, rainy.
Thursday 30.
Early
in the morning we were send out to reconnoiter, we encountred the enemy on the
White Oak Road in the vicinity of Fife Forks, we had some heavy skirmishing
throughout the day, we captured a number of prisoners. Capt. Cools [Henry
Kuhls, Co. L] and three of our men were captured. Corp. Moore [William
H., Co. E] of my Co. was seriously
wounded. Weather bad.
Friday 31.
On
the advance towards Fife Forks, we meet considerable opposition, but drove the
enemy, P.M. the enemy was heavy reinforced, they made several attacks, but were
unable to drive five brigades dismounted Cavalry from an open plain in front of
Dinwiddie Court House. The enemy’s force was 2 divisions of infantry and some
cavalry it was an obstinate fight. Lt. Monker was killed, Lt. Papanty was
wounded twice, the lose of wounded & killed on both sides considerable. It
was after dark when the firing ceased, and the enemy lay on their arms that
night not more than one hundred yards from our line.
Saturday April 1. [1865]
Reveille
at 2 A.M. we went back a few miles after some forage, then returned to Dinwiddie
Court House, advanced towards Fife Forks. The first division had to dismount, we
made an assault on the enemys works and soon carried them at several points. The
enemy were driven from their strong line of works and completely routed, we
captured the enemy’s artillery and turned it upon them it so demoralized them,
that they made no serious stand after their line was carried, but took to flight
in disorder, between 5000 and 6000 prisoner fell into our hands. We pursued the
enemy until long after dark for a distance of six miles. There was heavy firing
during the night in the direction of Petersburg. Weather fine.
Sunday 2.
A.M.
we destroyed the Petersburg R.R., skirmished some with the enemy’s Cavalry.
P.M. on the march again, we crossed Hatcher’s Run, the enemys Cavalry were in
considerable force north of the stream, but they would not stand to fight, about
dusk we had a slight skirmish.
Monday 3.
Early
in the morning we took up the pursuit, routed the enemy’s cavalry and captured
many prisoners, we had a severe fight with the enemys infantry; at night we
encamped on Deep Creek. Weather warm, some rain during the night.
Tuesday 4.
On
the march towards Amelia Court House, had a skirmish with the enemy; they had us
nearly surrounded, we marched all night, joined our infantry about daylight.
Wednesday 5.
On
the march, joined our infantry at Gettersville, where they were intrenched, we
went into battline, remained in position till almost dark, Lee might had saved
himself if he had promptly attacked and driven back the comparatively small
force opposed to him. One division of calvary struck a train of 180 wagons, wich
they took, also five pieces of artillerie, and a large number of prisoners.
Thursday 6.
Early
in our saddles, when near Dentonsville we discovered the enemy’s trains moving
in the direction of Burksville or Farmville, escorted by heavy masses of
infantry and cavalry, we were ordered to attack the trains, at Sailors (Saylors)
Creek we found a weak point, we burst on the enemy like a tornado took sixteen
pieces of artillery, many prisoners and about 400 wagons. General Ewell and a
number of other general officers fell in our hands and a very large number of
prisoners, we were under arms all night.
Friday 7.
Early
in our Saddles passed by Prince Edward Court House camped near Buffalo Creek. On
picket at night, at night; all quiet during the night. Weather rainy.
Saturday 8.
On
the march towards Lynchburg, at Prospect Station we encountred the enemy, we
captured many prisoners twenty five pieces of artillery, a hospital train and a
large park of wagons; the fighting continued till after dark, we drove the enemy
to Appomattox court House. We were under arms all night, on picket during the
night. Weather pleasant, night cold. Horses and men are about wore out.
Sunday 9.
Picket
line a skirmish line, most all the cavalry dismounted, the enemy to strong for
us, we are fighting desparate, but are compelled to fall back, at last our
infantry came up about A.M. We drove the enemy back, about noon Gen. Lee
surrenderd his whole army, my regiment under the last fire. P.M. all quiet. We
can’t hardly realize the quietness, there is prospects that we dont have any
more fighting. Our joy is great over the victory.
Monday 10.
On
the march towards Richmond, we went into camp near Prospect Station. Weather
bad.
Tuesday 11.
Early
in our saddles, we passed Hampton Sidny College, Prince Edward Court House,
camped near Farmerville. Weather unpleasant, rainy, roads bad, we are in the
best of spirits, expect to be discharged soon.
Wednesday 12.
On
the march passed a large wagon train of the Army of the Potomac, we arrived at
Burks Station at 2 P.M. a good deal of infantry about here. We went into camp
near the Station. Weather warm, a good deal of rain during the night.
Thursday 13.
We
are marching very slow, roads bad, we went after forage, crossed Nottoway Creek
a deep & narrow stream, camped near Nottoway Station. A very good place for
a camp in the woods. Weather A.M. rainy. P.M. pleasant.
Friday 14.
In
camp, put up tents, cleaned our arms and equipments, inspection of arms at
retreat. Weather pleasant.
Saturday 15.
In
camp; nothing going on, inspection of arms. Weather unpleasant, some rain.
Sunday 16.
None
Dress Parade; Divine service. Hundred of our men from City Point arrived.
Seventy five are at Major General Wilcox Headquarters under command of Capt.
Manning. Had five days rations issued. Weather fine.
Monday 17.
On
the march toward Petersburg, went into camp near the R.R. Had to go after some
forage, it was nearly midnight for we got into camp. Weather fine.
Tuesday 18.
Left
camp at 10 A.M. marched along the R.R.; went into camp about 3 miles from
Petersburg.
Wednesday 19.
We
put up our tents, we have a good place for a camp.
Thursday 20.
Broke
up camp at noon; went into camp a short distance from Petersburg. Had five days
ration issued.
Friday 21.
In
camp; nothing going on. No one allowed to leave camp without a pass. A Squad of
our men from City Point arrived, they had good horses.
Saturday 22.
In
camp, inspection of arms. Weather fine.
Sunday 23.
In
camp; we are under marching orders; had five days ration and three days forage
issued. Weather fine.
Monday 24.
Reveille
at 4 A.M. left camp at 6, took the Petersburg and Boydton plankroad; passed by
Dinwiddie Court House, we marched 27 miles, went into camp about sundown.
Weather warm, roads dusty.
Tuesday 25.
Early
in our saddles, we marched 22 miles, were delayed at Maheron river, camped there
all night. Appearance of the country fine, woods green, fruit trees in full
blossom.
Wednesday 26.
Reveille
before daylight, we crossed Maharon river, banks steep & bad about getting
out, we marched 24 miles, camped near Boylton. On picket during the night, all
quiet.
Thursday 27.
On
the march, were delayed a long time crossing a creek, bridge burnt, we marched
17 miles, went into camp near Roanoke River. Weather warm; appearance of the
country fine.
Friday 28.
Reveille
at 3 A.M. crossed Roanoke river on a bridge build of Ferryboats, marched fifteen
miles, crossed Bannister river, went into camp a short distance from it. Fife
days ration issued. G. Johnson surrendered his army, we are ordered back to
Petersburg.
Saturday 29.
Reveille
at daylight, we recrossed Banister river and Stanton river on a pantoon bridge,
went into camp a short distance from the river. Weather warm, raining quiet hard
at night.
Sunday 30.
In
camp till 2 P.M. marched till late at night; went 32 miles, crossed the Maharon
river. Weather cool; raining hard during the night.
Monday 1. [May
1865]
On
the march, roads muddy, we marched 22 miles, went in camp near Black & White
Station. Weather fine.
Tuesday 2.
Marched
21 miles, went into camp on the left of the R.R. Weather fine, night quite cold.
Wednesday 3.
On
the march, passed through Petersburg, crossed the Appomatox river went into camp
near the river.
Thursday 4.
In
camp; nothing going on. Five days rations issued, our horses on small allowance,
they only get from three to six quart of oats a day.
Friday 5.
About
camp, nothing going on, inspection of arms.
Saturday 6.
About
camp, part of Shermans Cavalry and Infantry arrived at Petersburg. Weather very
warm.
Sunday 7.
In
camp, dress parade & inspection. Not many citizens about camp, week days
there is a good many about here, selling all kind of eatables, everything is
very high. Weather very warm.
Monday 8.
In
camp; nothing going on. G. Shermans Army passing by on their way to Washington.
Had 5 days ration issued.
Tuesday 9
In
camp. Clothing issued; received a letter from home.
Wednesday 10.
On
the march to Washington, we passed through Manchester and Richmond, the most
business part of the City burned. Had a good sight of Libby Prison, Belle
Island, went into camp five miles from Richmond.
Thursday 11.
Reveille
at 3 A.M. left camp at 5 A.M. we crossed South Anna, went into camp at 5 P.M. we
had a good deal of rain during the night.
Friday 12.
Reveille
at daylight, left camp at 10 A.M. roads are very bad and very muddy, we crossed
the South Fork of the South Anna, went into camp after dark.
Saturday 13.
Reveille
at 4 A.M. left camp at 7 we crossed the North Anna and the Rapidan at Racoon
Ford went into camp a short distance from the river. Country fine. The country
shows the effect of the war.
Sunday 14.
Early
in our saddles, we marched till late at night, passed through Stevensburg, and a
number of old camps occupied by our Army in 1862 & 63. We crossed the
Rappahanok at Kelly’s Ford. Many of our horses are giving out, the Citizens
are picking them up. Weather fine.
Monday 15.
Reveille
at 3 A.M. left camp at 5 we crossed Broad Run and Bull Run, passed over Bull Run
Battlefield, by Manasses Junction & Centreville, went into camp near Fairfax
Court House. Weather fine. Two days rations issued.
Tuesday 16.
On
our march, passed through Fairfax Court House, Falls Church went into camp near
the Long Bridge close to the Potomac. We have a good view of the City of
Washington. There is a good many troops about here.
Wednesday 17.
In
camp; all kind of rumors in camp, some say we are going to Mexico, an other
rumor is, we are going to be discharched soon, wich we all wish. 5 days rations
issued.
Thursday 18.
In
camp, nothing going on. Weather warm, rainy night.
Friday 19.
In
camp; we have easy times, no drill. Our horses have plenty of oats &
hay. Inspection of arms at retreat.
Saturday 20.
Reveille
before sunrise, ordered to be ready to move at 4 A.M. , order countermanded
after we are all ready, remained in camp. Weather cool, night rainy.
Sunday 21.
Reveille
before sunrise, left camp at 7 A.M., we marched through Washington, were
reviewed by our “brave Commander Major General Sheridan”, went into camp
near Bladensburg on the right of the Baltimore & Ohio R.R. Had our tents up
before dark, were ordered to be ready to move. Order countermanded, we put up
our tents the second time. Weather bad, roads very muddy. Night rainy. The most
of our dismounted men arrived.
Monday 22.
Broke
up camp. Moved across Duck Creek, pretty god place for a camp. E & H on a
line. The rest of our dismounted men arrived also some recruits. 508 men in all.
Our regiment is now 800 men strong. Inspection of arms at retreat. The creek
very high, four mules were drownded. Weather warm.
Tuesday 23.
Grand
Review. We left camp at 8 A.M. marched through Washington, passed the Capitol
& Whitehouse, every thing went of well & pleasant, the City was tronged
with Thousands of spectators. Weather fine.
Wednesday 24.
Went
to Washington, remained till 5 P.M. saw part of General Shermans Army pass
through. The soldiers are fine, stout and hardy looking men, they made a very
good appearance. I visited W. Moore, he is getting well, but looks somewhat
pale. Weather fine.
Thursday 25.
In
camp, men busy cleaning up the camp. Dress Parade at 6 P.M. Fife days rations
issued. Weather fine.
Friday 26.
In
camp; under marching orders; rumors we are going across the Potomac to Camp
Windham. Weather bad.
Saturday 27.
Reveille
before daylight, ordered to be ready to move at 6 A.M. Order countermanded.
Dress parade at 6 P.M. General Gibbs and three of his staff officers present. A
number of our regimental officers promoted. One promotion should have been a
dishonorable discharge. Weather cool & rainy.
Sunday 28.
In
camp under marching orders; we expect to leave to morrow. Dress parade in the
evening. Weather more pleasant.
Monday 29.
Reveille
before daylight, left camp at 7 A.M., marched through Washington, crossed the
Potomac on the long Bridge, passed through Allexandria went into Camp about 5
miles from Allexandria; we have a very good place for a camp.
Tuesday 30.
Every
men busy puting up a tent, from three to four to go in a tent. Corp. Charles
Jenkins & Denis Hogan and myself are in a tent together; we have a very good
tent. Our camp in a good place in the woods.
Wednesday 31.
In
camp, nearly every men busy fixing tent or policing on the Co. streets. Our camp
begins to look well, it is as good a place for a camp as we ever had. Capt. John
Richards is in command of our Co. Fife days rations issued. Weather warm.
Thursday June 1. [1865]
In
camp fixed up my tent a little better; a number of men to work on the Co.
streets and Parade ground, cookhouses etc. Our camp looks fine. Weather fine.
Friday 2.
About
camp; copeing some of my journal. Weather warm.
Saturday 3.
Inspection
of the mounted & dismounted men by General Gibbs. Weather very warm.
Vegetables etc. & some clothing send to this Brigade by the Christian
Sanitary Society. Our regiment received their share of it.
Sunday 4.
About
camp; nothing going on. Rumors about camp that we are going to be discharged
this week. Weather warm.
Monday 5.
Some
disturbance in the third Division; a party robbed & killed a Sutler. First
division was ordered to saddle up and be ready to mount any moment. In the
disturbance were five men killed; one Lt. a Sutler & 5 soldiers. All quiet
about noon, we were not ordered out.
Tuesday 6.
In
camp. A.M. drill. Weather cool & cloudy.
Wednesday
7.
Had
a pass, visited Mount Vernon, Estate of General George Washington. Mount Vernon
is a very fine place. The Vault is a very plain structure. The remains of G.
Washington and his lady rest in marble coffins.
Thursday 8.
In
camp, passed of the day writing & reading.
Friday 9.
In
camp, writing nearly all day.
Saturday 10.
In
camp, nothing going on. 5 days ration issued.
Sunday 11.
About
camp; passed the day reading & writing.
Monday 12.
About
camp; nothing going on.
Tuesday 13.
About
camp.
Wednesday 14.
About
camp; nothing going on. P.M. rainy.
Thursday 15.
In
camp, rations issued.
Friday 16.
About
camp; reading & writing. P.M. rainy.
Saturday 17.
In
camp; rumors about camp of our going out west, men not fit for service are sent
before a board of examination. A detail of men going out to patrol the roads of
the surrounding country. Weather warm.
Sunday 18.
In
camp; translating my journal.
Monday 19.
Monthly
inspection, all went of well, great excitement in camp, there is a report we are
going to be mustered out immediately; I hope it is so.
Tuesday 20.
An
other report about camp, we will not be mustered out till the assassination
trial is over. Our Colonel is going to leave us, we all regrett his going away. [Col.
Caspar Crowninshield]. Fife days rations issued. Weather bad, raining hard
at times.
Wednesday 21.
About
camp, nothing going on.
Thursday 22.
In
camp; rumors we are going into Washington to do Provo duty.
Friday 23.
About
camp, nothing going on.
Saturday 24.
In
camp; rumors we are going away.
Sunday 25.
In
camp, expect to move to morrow, great dissatisfaction amongs the men. Weather
warm.
Monday 26.
P.M.
Struck tents, moved to Fairfax Court House, went into camp close by the Town.
Weather bad.
Tuesday 27.
We
are puting up our tents. Six by seven feet only two men allowed in a tent.
Wednesday 28.
Busy
puting up tents. A good many men on guard, no one allowed outside of camp
without a pass. Great dissatisfaction among the men; rations are: Pork,
Hardbread and that short. Weather warm.
Thursday 29.
About
camp; men busy hauling lumber and building Cookhouses & stables. Nearly all
of the regiment went before Major McKendry to see about our rations.
Friday 30.
In
camp; the most of the men to work; hard rain in the afternoon.
Saturday July 1. [1865]
In
camp. 30 men of my Co. detailed as Orderlies at Brigade Headquarters, in Fairfax
Court House. They have very easy times and good quarters to live in. Weather
warm.
Sunday 2.
About
camp, moved my tent. Edward Straub returned to the Co.
Monday 3.
General
inspection of arms etc. Rumors in camp we will be mustered out of the service
soon.
Tuesday 4.
Took
a ride out in the country; went to Vienna, Sevensville, Falls Church, returned
to camp in the evening.
Wednesday 5.
About
camp; nothing going on.
Thursday 6.
In
camp, fixed a bathing place a half of a mile from camp.
Friday 7.
About
camp; took a bath and done some washing. Great rejoycing in camp, our regiment
is to be mustered out immediately, we expect to leave in a few days.
Saturday 8.
About
camp; nothing going on.
Sunday 9.
A.M.
in camp. P.M. Dyer [Andrew, Co. E]
& myself put a headboard on Ormsby’s grave, also a railing around it.
Monday 10.
About
camp; 5 days rations issued.
Tuesday 11.
In
camp; weather bad.
Wednesday 12.
In
camp. Capt. Richards Mare and three more horses were stolen during the night.
Thursday 13.
Went
to Drainsville, put a head board on Byron H. Grovers grave. The noble and brave
boy fell the 22 Febr. 1864.
Friday 14.
H.
Wyatt and myself went to Leesburg to look for Capt. Richards horse, we found
her; returned to our camp at night.
Saturday 15.
In
camp; had five days rations issued.
Sunday 16.
About
camp, writing and reading.
Monday 17.
H.
Wyatt and myself went to Leesburg, we left camp about 10 oclock at night;
arrived in Leesburg about 8 A.M. A Mr. Feedly had Capt. Richards mare, he gave
her up. We met several of Moseby’s men, talked over our scrapes we had
together. Returned to our camp in the evening.
Tuesday 18.
About
camp; nothing going on.
Wednesday 19.
Great
excitement and rejoicing in camp. We were musterd out of the Service of the U.
St. Army.
Thursday 20.
About
camp; P.M. Dress parade.
Friday 21.
A.M.
we struck Tents; we left our camp in the evening, arrived at Vienna after dark.
Saturday 22.
Went
per R.R. to Washington, where we arrived at 8 A.M., left at noon, arrived in
Baltimore at 5 P.M., took supper at the soldiers rest, left Baltimore about
dark, travelled all night, the time passed of pleasantly.
Sunday 23.
We
arrived in Philadelphia before daylight, had a good breakfast, left about 7 A.M.
went per R.R. to Jersey City, then to New York City, where we arrived at 1 P.M.
About 5 P.M. we left N.Y. City went on the Steamer Atlantic, wich brought us
safely to Providence. We had a very pleasant time on the Steamer. Weather fine,
night pleasant.
Monday 24.
We
arrived at Providence 8 A.M. went per R.R. to Camp Meigs, near Readville, Mass
we arrived there two P.M.
Tuesday 25.
About
camp. We have barracks to live in, time passes of wearly.
Wednesday 26.
Had
a pass to go to Boston, visited my cousin “Paul Neflon” an Artist, it is
over thirteen years since we saw one an other.
Thursday 27.
About
camp, we are tired of the camp.
Friday 28.
About
camp, nothing going on.
Saturday 29.
In
camp, we expect to be discharged Monday.
Sunday 30.
About
camp. The days pass of wearly.
Monday 31.
We
expected to be paid of, the Paymaster ditn come. Some more Mass. troops arrived,
Artillerie, Infantry & Cavalry, they expect to be discharged soon. Weather
warm.
Tuesday 1. [August 1865]
No
Paymaster, some misunderstanding about our transportation, there is rumors we
are not to receive it.
Wednesday 2.
Part
of the regiment paid of.
Thursday 3.
In
camp; two more Co. paid of.
Friday 4.
All
of the Regiment paid of but the Californians.
Saturday 5.
Discharged
out of the Service of the U.S. Our transportation and subsistence is not
furnished. A number of the Californians have not money enough to go back to
California. We went to Boston, stopped at the Hancock House, a good many of the
Californians are stopping there.
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