Link, Martin Diary (1862-1865)
This is the 126-page memoir of Martin Link who served with the 85th New York Voluntary Infantry. Diary notes made between March 1862 and 1865 serve as the basis for the memoir. Information about battles at Fair Oaks, Yorktown, and Williamsburg in Virginia and Kingston and Goldsboro in North Carolin...
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Diaries Link, Martin Diary (1862-1865) Link, Martin, 1842 - |
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Diaries Link, Martin, 1842-; United States. Army. New York Infantry, 85th; Fair Oaks, Battle of, Va., 1862; Williamsburg, Battle of, Williamsburg, Va., 1862; United States--History--Civil War, 1861-1865 History – 1838-1874: Sectionalism, the Civil War and Reconstruction; Peoples -- Military Life; Government and Politics -- Military |
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This is the 126-page memoir of Martin Link who served with the 85th New York Voluntary Infantry. Diary notes made between March 1862 and 1865 serve as the basis for the memoir. Information about battles at Fair Oaks, Yorktown, and Williamsburg in Virginia and Kingston and Goldsboro in North Carolina is included.[page 1]
Mary Goodwin
Farmers Valley, Pa.
[page 2]
Excelsior Diary for 1870
[page 3]
Contents
Eclipses for 1870
Morning stars
Evening stars
Church Days
[page 4]
Calendar for 1870
January February
[page 5]
March April
May June
On the outskirts of the town we erected forts and a line of earth works around the town on the land side.
July 5th
Our Regt. and one other went on an expedition to Williamston, 32 miles up the river. Two other Regts. proceeded
up the river on gun boats. The country was very poor and we would not pass a house but once in 4 or 5 miles,
the people lived mostly by fishing.
July 6th
At night we came in sight of Williamston, a few rebel soldiers were in the town but left without notice.
A flag of truce was then sent in, with notice for the citizens to leave. The mayor of the town claimed to have a force
beyond the town and said he thought it prudent, but could not himself surrender the place. The women and children
having left, the gun boats came up and commenced to bombard the town, and we could see the light from every shell,
as they went crashing through the houses, the rebels did not return the fire and ours
[page 6]
July August
September October
[page 7]
November December
stamp duties
[page 8]
stamp duties
[page 9]
stamp duties
Rates of Postage
[page 10]
Difference of Time
Distances from New York
[page 11]
Presidents of the United States
[page 12]
1870 Diary
When I first commenced the following diary sometimes making a note of the weary days march while in my tent at
night with a dreary storm with out at the other times when seated around our camp fire with a clear and star
lit sky above us I only intended to quote down a few of the dates and places. So that in after years I could
more correctly remember what I had passed through. But I little thought then I should be here now to reproduce
it again for you. If I had, I should have given more of my thoughts as they occurred and not left it the mere
sketch you will find it to be. But such as it is, I write it for you; and if in it you shall find anything to
interest you for a passing hour, I shall be well repaid for doing so.---------
Mart …. To Mary
[page 13]
The first 8 months in the service of “Uncle Sam” I passed in Elmira and Washington. I kept no diary during that
time as nothing was transpiring worthy of notes. I was at that time a Sergeant Major of the Regt. which is a
non-commissioned office on the Colonels Staff. The duties are to see that each “Co” furnish their proper number
of men for Guard and other duty, attend parades, and assist in fortifying lines of battle. We arrived in
Washington, D.C., Dec. 6, 1861 when our colonel first took command of the Regt. He deprived me of the position
I held, telling me he had promised it to his son-in-law before I was appointed by the Lieut. Colonel.
Would give me a better position when he could. I then formed Co. A and offered to serve as a private until
I earned for myself a position. If
[page 14]
that should ever be. I done no duty during the winter except what I volunteered to do, non being required of me,
owing to do former position I had held, this is about all during this time of any importance.
On the 27th of March 1862 we were notified that we were to form the “Army of the Potomac” under Gen. McClellan,
then starting for Virginia via Fortress Monroe to the Peninsula and here my diary commences.
1862—Mar. 28th
Left Washington City, crossed its long bridge on the Potomac, arrived at Alexandria in the morning,
was put in command of the Guards of its city for the night, weather very cold, walked about the streets all night,
visited my guards about once an hour. Guards arrested one man—enquired his business and found him to be all right, was invited to his house, went in and was offered some
[page 15]
some “Potato Whiskey” to warm me up, thought once of poison, but under the circumstances drank some of the whiskey;
no poison, but don’t think I like potatoes in this style.
29th
Staid in the city all day. Regt. moved out side and pitched their tents.
30th
Regt. returned to the city and went on board steam boats for the night, being acquainted with the steward on the
steamer “Ocean Queen”, I staid with him, found splendid accommodations…..Thanks to Fred.
31st
Our whole division starts for Ft. Monroe on board the boats. Weather fine.
April 1st
Had a fine view of Mount Vernon Estate on the Potomac, came into Chesapeake Bay in the afternoon.
April 2nd
Landed at Hampton City on the James just above Fort Monroe, Va. This is an ancient town and was nearly all
burned by the Rebels in the commencement of the war.
Major K and myself visited the old burying ground back of the towne. Some very old tombs, many dating
back to 1570. On our return
[page 16]
to camp met several of the chivalry and some ladies. They have the appearance of wealth but with all have a
degenerate look, not met with in people at the north.
April 3rd
Left Hampton City and marched to Newport News on the banks of the James River and encamped for the night.
I was here made only Sergt. Co. A and while at the same camp on the 13th received the whole vote of the Co.,
excepting six for 2nd Lieutenant.
April 16th
Left Newport News and took up our line of march towards Richmond, passed “Warwick Court House” which is a small
town of only a dozen houses. The court house from which the town derived, its name is one of the oldest
in the U.S. is also very small, the weather very warm and many of the soldiers are throwing away
[page 17]
much of their clothing, blankets. Only to wish they had them again at night, we encamp in the woods tonight
without tents distance marched 20 miles. Men very much fatigued generally. Night beautiful and warm.
April 17th
Moved forward to Camp Winfield Scott, about one mile from York Town and here put up our tents, could hear the Rebel
cannon from their forts in town, very plain and which very much reminds us that war is a stern reality
and that very soon we must take our part in it. We remained at this camp until the 3rd of May, had one skirmish
with Rebel pickets during the time; I was one day away, our picket line in front of York Town when the Colonel
told me he was about to send a company as new as possible to the Rebel Forts, to ascertain the exact position of
the enemy pickets.
[page 18]
I knew by his mentioning the matter to me that he desired me to advance the line, I saw plainly the dangers that
would attend me, but resolved to volunteer to do it rather than to have any man think I dare not without an order.
I took the men he ordered to go and started down a lane and direct towards the Rebel Forts, we had gone but a
short distance when I saw plainly that in order to reach our destination, we should be obliged to crawl on our hands
and knees. This we done, crawling in this manner nearly one half mile when we came to a fence running
diagonally to the lane, along this was very thick brush which shielded the men from the Rebels sight.
The day was very hot and the men suffered much, after resting a while I gave the men
[page 19]
their instruction to divide their numbers and crawl to the right and left along the fence and wait for further
orders. Just before dark I found a position where with the aid of a field glass, I could see the position of
the Rebel Forts and while looking, their attention was attracted towards my line of men along the fence,
a moment more a gun was pointed toward the left of the line and a shell came singing over the extreme left,
burst far in our men. My heart beats fast then, I knew if any man got up and ran away we were surely gone,
but though they fired several times their shots flew far to high to think they must have seen one of the men but
were not themselves positive. About 10 p.m. we were ordered back by Genl. Casey. We were all safe in camp at
midnight, sore, tired, and hungry.
[page 20]
Our camp at this place was marshy and wet and very many of the troops suffered with fever, and though several
nights I lay drenched in rain, I received no illness from it, and the water we drank was the same you
will find in any swamp. Much labor was done here by the troops in the line of repairing roads in our area in
order to bring in supplies.
May 3rd
The Rebels evacuated York Town on the 4th, our division was ordered in pursuit with one days rations,
we marched into York Town and there had a good fun of all their forts and the ones I had before seen through my
glass. I was here shown the place where Cornwallis surrendered his sword to Washington. A small monument marks
the spot. York Town is only a town by name, aside from forts and earthworks, we did not return to our camp at
night as was expected. The men were without blankets or anything
[page 21]
to keep them warm except what had on, at dark it began to rain.
May 5th
Rained all day. Roads almost impossible for the whole of our own and the Rebels had passed over these within
two days. We were ordered forward early in the morning and soon heard the roar of artillery and musketry ahead
and soon commenced passing broken army wagons, cannons stuck fast in the mud, dead horses and mules also.
Many straylers which the firing had made suddenly sick, we were soon in sight of the Battlefield of Williamsburg.
On arriving we were given our position on the extreme left, in a piece of woods to hold the line at that point
in case they tried our flank, stray shells from the Rebel cannons made many a sad gap in our line that day,
but with our muskets we could not return a single shot but remained in our position till dark.
[page 22]
. As darkness closed over us, firing ceased on both sides, a more wet and dreary night than this I never passed
in Va. The men were without rations and no blankets or overcoats but in spite of all this I heard many singing
songs of home and a good many more swearing. To sleep was an impossibility, as it rained continually and they
must do something the next morning. “Hard tack” would have commenced a good price, if there had been any in
market.
May 7th
We moved to the right of the battlefield and encamped. I passed this day visiting the different parts of the
fields where such a scene of strife had just passed over, dead men and horses were to be seen in every direction
and but for these evidences it all seemed like a horrid dream.
[page 23]
May 10th
Left Williamsburg this morning, marched ten miles towards Richmond, the country where we encamped to night has
a much better appearance than I have seen in Va.
May 11th
I have heard much dissatisfaction manifested amongst officers today because Genl. McClellan does not push ahead,
roads are bad, but now is the time if ever.
May 12th
Was detailed as officer of the picket guard tonight. Picket line about one mile in advance of our camp.
Night very warm and fine, the moon shines brightly and out thoughts were back to the time when at home we thought not of war. Got some supper this evening.
Just outside the line was a house, I was told belonged to a Colonel in the Rebel Army. House occupied by
the mothers and daughters and two servants. I asked one of the “Darkies” if the rebels went that way “Yes” massa,
dey did, dey diddent run, but dey flewed.
[page 24]
May 13th
Received orders to relieve my guards this morning and follow any Regt. which had already started. Marched all
day and most of the night, on our march we passed many relics of the Rebel Army, such as spiked cannons,
abandoned wagons and their property.
May 14th
Morning, I find we are at New Kent Courthouse, am nearly sick today. Rains hard, this place looks dismal and
lonely, the face of the country low and swampy.
May 17th
Broke camp at day light, marched to the “White House” (residence of Genl. Lee) near the railroad running to
Richmond, passed a few fine plantations and many huts of the poor whites. Their lands mostly grown up with small
pines where you could see the trace of old cornfields, these farms so called appears to you as though the
brush and trees had got the
[page 25]
start of the people, and had driven the farm into a compass of about three acres and this planted with sweet
potatoes, collards and corn. While here the men received their tents which they had been without since leaving
York Town.
May 19th
Marched to the Chickahominy River, distance made today (13) miles, heard a little musketry firing in the evening.
May 20th
Our brigade was ordered to the front—advanced about one mile and formed our lines of Battle. Four cannons were
brought up and our infantry stationed to its right and left for support. Two shots were fired from a Rebel battery
which brought the limbs from the trees above our heads in a lively manner. The firing was then kept up
on both sides for about four hours when the Rebel guns were silenced, loss to our Regt. one man killed.
Rained all this afternoon was wet through, and I got neither dry nor warm this night.
[page 26]
May 22nd
Our division (Genl. Casey’s) crossed the river and encamped at “Fair Oaks”, in the afternoon our Regt. made a
reconnaissance to find the Rebel Pickets. Found their line and returned to camp. Our camp in a large field of
many hundred acres, with thick woods in our front, road running through Richmond. Can hear their drums beat in
the capitol of the Confederacy to night. The enemy are only one mile from our camp, and our pickets kept up a
continued firing every night. Through the day time our division is employed in throwing up rifle pits and
building redouts.
May 30th
The Dr. tells me I shall have a run of the fever, took some quinine and whiskey.
May 31st
Could eat nothing this morning, took more of the “medicine.” At 10 a.m. a shell came flying over the centre of
our camp, a few moments more and two others were fired. One far away on our right, tho, other on left line. Genl Palmer riding by said this
[page 27]
“means business” and so it proved to be on this day (31st) our division fought the Battle of Fair Oaks.
Commenced about 10 a.m. and ending at dark (I once wrote a description of this Battle to a friend and afterwards
saw my letter published in the Olean paper, but I did not write it down in my diary). I was completely used up,
not only from sickness, but from the effects of a rifle ball striking my right side. Our division numbered in
the morning 6,000 for duty, loss in this Battle in the division 1,500.
At dark we were sent to the rear and fresh troops took our place at the front. All our clothing was lost,
except what we had on, and I slept in same clothes which were wet through, rained nearly all night and no shelter.
June 1st
The cannons commenced roaring loudly at our old battleground this morning which was soon succeeded by musketry.
The fight lasted nearly all the forenoon and ended by the enemy being driven back in front of Richmond,
their loss in tow days was about 10,000 killed and wounded.
[page 28]
June 2nd
The division moved back to “Poplar Hill”. I was left in our old camp until evening unable to sit up, or scarcely
move without help. In the morning was carried back to our new camp.
June 3rd
The Regiment has been felling timber and building breastworks all day, this backward movement I do not understand,
some say we are to strike the James at Charles City, then to Richmond. Large numbers of our soldiers died
from sickness and exposure while at this camp. I was ordered by the surgeon to be carried to the field
hospital but preferred to stay in camp. I passed the dreary time at this camp until the 25th when Genl McClellan’s
retreat commenced. Our division received orders to move two miles to the river this morning, taking no camp equipment,
no one thought then it was to be a musterly (cowardly) retreat. I was left in camp with several other sick and
wounded. About noon several men came to camp to help us back to Regt.
[page 29]
and telling us the whole Army was retreating and the enemy then within two miles march of our camp, one of these
men carried me across a creek and on to the hill where our division was stationed, while the Rebels were
bringing a battery in position within a quarter of a mile of us. (this man’s name was “Daniel White” all thanks
to him; friends are very few, they would not have left me to the mercy of the Rebels) This day the seven days
fight commenced and was fought as follows, 25th Mechanicsville, 26th Peach Orchard, 27th Savage’s Station,
28th Allens Field, 29th White Oaks Swamp, 30th Glen Dale, July 1 Malvern Hill, on this hill I saw the whole of the
Army of the Potomac stationed and witnessed the struggle between its convening Armies. The fight on our side was
mostly by artillery in which was engaged every battery in the Potomac Army.
July 2nd & 3rd
Our Regt. was on picket until about 10 p.m. on the evening of the 3rd when they marched to
[page 30]
Harrison Landing on the James, the scene presented on nearing the river was such as I hope never to see again.
Mud was knee deep in the best of the roads, and in the worst places were dead horses and mules, that had
stuck fast and were killed. Wagons were left by the hundreds and it on fire, barrels of coffee, beef, rice and
everything pertaining to an Army could be found broken up and emptied in to the mud to keep from capture by
the Rebels. Add to this all that moving mass of hungry, tired and mudy soldiers, and you have our army as it was on
this entrance to Harrison Landing as day light on the morning of this 4th of July, 1862.
July 4th, 1862
Genl McClellan inspected his Army, the most of the Regts. cheered him loudly. The day was passed in celebrating
and a loud roar of artillery was kept up until dark. This place an excellent fortification, being on a
high elevation and surrounded on its land side by swamps, river in the rear and gun boats to protect.
[page 31]
July 5th
I found myself unable to walk, the Col. Visited me and gave me an order for transportation to New York City,
also a general level order from Genl. Keyes, Comdg. Corps, detailing me on recruiting service for the corps
as soon as my health would permit.
July 6th
I was carried on the steamer “Elm City” bid adieu to all my old comrades and sailed for the north.
July 8th
Arrived in N.Y. Harbor in the evening. Sailed out to David Island twenty miles from New York.
I was there admitted in the general hospital. This island contained about 200 sick and wounded soldiers. The kind attention
I have received together with the refreshing air from off the Atlantic soon enabled me to leave the hospital.
July 23rd
Visited the Genl. Surgeon in charge of hospital to get transportation to the city. The surgeon said I think you
are just such an officer as I have here, I will see Genl Brown to day in N.Y. and have
[page 32]
you permanently detailed here to take command of a Co. of guards for the island. I thought then of my promise
to my Co. way down in Va., how I told them when they gave me a position that I would not leave them while the
war lasted. I told him I could not accept his kind offer but would organize this Co. and take charge of them
until he could get someone to suit him.
July 25th
Organized a company of 75 men from the convalescents of the hospital. These men were to remain until fit for
service in the field when they would be sent away and others taken to fill up the vacancy this made.
These Guards were to look after the government property on the island, see that no soldier deserted from the hospital also
see that order was maintained by the men and women employed there. ( I will here state a little circumstance which
happened
[page 33]
during the few days I remained here. I gave orders to the guards to arrest all persons they found intoxicated
and put them in the guard house. One morning I came out and found they had arrested four persons, one a young medical
student who was acting as hospital steward, two men employed as workmen, and one woman, a nurse. All had been
noisy and thus got arrested. A beautiful scene that, but I think I can safely vouch for two of that number who
would not come to be seen there again).
From the 25th I discontinued my diary for some time. Afterward wrote some in another which was lost. But about
to the first of August, I went to the City and reported by letter to Adjutant Genl Sprague at Albany, for orders
where to open a recruiting office, he recommended Elmira or such other place as I should think best. Taking as a
district the counties of Ontario and Chemung. I suppose I need not tell you any more of this, as it would not be
at all interesting and will only
[page 34]
tell you how I got heartily tired of this. Gentleman soldiering and being as strong and well as ever, I once more
longed to be with my Co. in the field. I was hearing from some of them every week urging me to get relieved
and join them. About the last of August I wrote Genrl. Sprague to be relieved but it was not granted until
November. When one quite cold evening I took the cars at Elmira for Baltimore, from there by steamer
to Norfolk, Va., Ft. Monroe from there by rail again to Suffolk, Va, where I found my Regt. in winter quarters
and at this camp.
I commenced my diary again, we had left the Potomac Army and joined to those further south, Nov. 17th our brigade
started on an expedition to Blackwater, Va, a distance of about 30 miles. Taking with us Pontoon bridges with
which to cross that river and take the enemies works, reached the river
[page 35]
river about 10 p.m. rested until morning when a lively salutation of hard shot and shell was kept up for some time.
Finally our forces threw a pontoon across and some moved over, then the Bridge broke, and others being too short,
the attack was abandoned. Our Brigade returned to Suffolk.
December 5th
We started for North Carolina, it rained most of the day, mud very deep. The county was swampy and low. Marched about
23 miles and camped for the night. Men tired out.
December 6th
Continued our march, weather was as bad as ever and roads worse, but with one Brigade, so far in our enemies country
could do nothing but push on, we arrived in the village of Gatesville in the evening, a very small town.
December 7th
The weather once more fine and warm. Marched about 3 miles to the Chowan River where we took steamer boats and past
down the river through Albemarle Sound, past Roanoke Island, through the Pamlico Sound by Hatteras and up
[page 36]
up the Neuse River to New Bern N.C. where we landed on the 10th and encamped in the evening just out side the city.
Major Genl Foster Comdg. here was organizing and expedition to go to Goldsboro, N.C. and having nothing but
new troops, had sent for us to come and do the fighting. So it looked and proved to be.
December 11th
We were again on the march towards Kinston the country through which we passed was mostly covered with pine timber and
called by the natives Turpentine farms. Scarcely a tree could be seen but what had been tapped and were covered
with pitch. There the soldiers would set on fire as we passed along and at night it made one of the grandest
scenes imaginable and it the enemy had choosed to follow in our rear they could have had plenty of light.
Marched about 15 miles and encamped on a large plantation. There were estimated to be about 3,000 bushels of
sweet potatoes buried on the farm, they were nearly all taken
[page 37]
taken by the soldiers and roasted and what they could not eat was carried away with them. Turkeys, chickens,
and pigs met the same fate and most of our other expeditions Rebel property had been carefully guarded now,
nothing was in the line of eatables. We had bought but three days rations with us and therefore must make
the confederacy feed us. And I soon learned that my Darkey cook knew where to find the best.
We were now getting in a higher country, the air was dry and the weather was most delightful, just warm enough
through the day to be most delicious, at night there would be a little frost.
December 12th
Were on the march all day, met with several different squads of Rebel Pickets on our road, most of which our Co.
of Cavalry captured. Encamped in the woods to night, distance 16 miles today.
December 13th
The new troops which had until now taken the advance were given the rear, while we took the lead, we moved
along with more caution to day and our march was one continual
[page 38]
skirmish all day. When we meet their pickets, our column would halt until we drove them out, thus we continued
all day making but a short distance, and encamped at night within half a mile of the enemy. The men were
ordered by Major Genl Foster not to light any fires, but they finding our Brigadier did not care whether they
obeyed that order or not, soon had fires in every direction and were making as much noise as thought the enemy
had been a hundred miles away.
December 14th
Early this morning our picket line woke us by a lively musketry fire which lasted some time, in our front was a
heavy belt of timber, beyond that again were cleared fields, where the enemy were stationed along the banks
of the Neuse River. We were ordered immediately to the front and then the Battle of Kinston commenced, which
was the greatest battle had there been fought in North Carolina, the fight opened
[page 39]
by artillery firing on both sides, this was done on our part to attract the attention of the enemy towards the
center of our line, two Regts. were then ordered to make a flank movement from the left of our line, a similar
movement of our Regt. and the 89 was on the right leaving three Regts. still facing the enemy; thus forming three
sides of a hollow square. The three Regts. in the centre then made a change and at the same time, the right, and left
flank. Regts. closed in upon them giving the enemy a heavy cross fire. The fight lasted about 1.5 hours,
when the enemy were driven across the river and lost about 600 prisoners, four pieces of artillery,
and considerable amount of Army stores. The Rebels had prepared three large piles of cotton on the river bridge across
which they retreated on this they had poured turpentine, these piles they set on fire before half their numbers
had crossed, as we pressed them closely and the bridge being crowded full of men
[page 40]
.Many of them were compelled by the heat from the fire to jump in to the river from off the bridge, which was
about 20 feet from the water, on arriving at the bridge we extinguished the fires and found three men burned to death.
(I have seen many horrible sights in battle, but never on that affected me so much as this as my Co. had just
passed over the bridge I heard two quite loud explosions, which for an instant quite deafened me, and could not
tell in what direction they were but immediately I heard one of the men say “there it hit me, another I am wounded,
I am wounded,” I also found my left hand bleeding, and the skirt of my coat torn (the latter did not hurt much as I remember)
We halted and found the cause which was small hand grenade left in the road upon which the men had trodden,
many more were found but were carefully removed, we then moved on and entered the village of Kinston,
about one mile from the river.
[page 41]
This we found to be quite a pretty town, the enemy formed their lines again just beyond the town, but as soon as
our artillery came up and opened fire they fled. We moved on about five miles and encamped, “loss in our Brigade, 140.
December 16th
We recrossed the river, burnt the bridge, which they had tried to do, Genl. Foster now took the advance with his
new troops, and the artillery with him towards Goldsboro, about noon they cannoning was heard in advance, about 3 p.m. we
came up with the advance and found they had engaged the enemy since early in the forenoon at “White Hull,” giving
the rebels a lively artillery fight across the river. Seen enemy wounded carried to the rear. In this we took no
pride, but the position we took as their support, brought us within range of every shot fired from the Rebels.
On the evening of this day, the Rebels were reinforced and crossed the river a few miles above us at the Rail Road Bridge at Goldsboro.
December 17th
We fought the “Battle of Goldsboro,” they were again
[page 42]
defeated and drove into the town, we then burnt the rail road bridge, and tore up the track for some distance,
the artillery were left in a field near the river to be ready in case the enemy returned while we moved back about
half a mile on a hill, here the men got something to eat, after which they lounged about upon the grass,
some smoking, some playing checkers, and all enjoying themselves finely when a loud shout from the artillery sent
them flying for their guns. It seems that the Rebel Genl Pettigrew and his Brigade had crossed the river above us,
and was just coming out of the woods to the left, and in front of us making a charge upon our artillery in
the valley below, and when we first see them they were so near to our artillery, that our help was out of the question,
from where we stood we could see every man in the Rebel Brigade, and they made the grandest charge
[page 43]
I ever witnessed from either side. The enemy seemed almost on to our artillery before our artillery fired a gun,
but every gun sent them death, at the same instant, the Rebels retreated, and with a yell returned the charge
three times in succession, when they were scattered in every direction. As near as I could tell this lasted
about 15 minutes from the time they came out of the woods. Many of the enemy took this opportunity to desert lying
down in the woods until the main force had passed when they came into our lines.
The object of the expedition being now accomplished we once more turned toward New Bern, (had it not have been we
should have been obliged to return for we had not ammunition enough left to have stood an hours fight).
We marched nearly half the night, and encamped on a large plantation near Kinston, the roads were dry and weather
still fine, soon as the men were at liberty, small fires were made in every direction to cook their suppers by,
the night was just a little foggy and with all these fires, scattered on those
[page 44]
hills, with the men moving about there, it made one of the grandest pictures I ever beheld.
December 18th
Continued on our return march and at night was with 12 miles of New Bern, here we encamped and sent out men for
forage for both men and horses.
December 21st
We again entered New Bern, bringing with us a long train of contrabands, prisoners, and refugees from the Rebels.
We crossed the Trent River and encamped. New Bern is one of the oldest towns in N.C., is situated at the
confluence of the Neuse and Trent Rivers and formerly contained about 8,000 inhabitants, but now few were left.
Here we remained until April, and passed a very pleasant time; we went on three expeditions during the winter to
quiet the different bands of guerrillas; but nothing of importance was done. And here I closed my diary again
until we should again be called to the field.
March 14th, 1863
Found us encamped on the banks of the Neuse River having moved from our old quarters on the Trent during the winter
[page 45]
and the men were ready for any thing, except staying longer in camp. Early in the morning of this day,
we were awakened by cannoning across the river. I went out to the river and see that a Rebel Brigade of artillery
and infantry were attempting the capture of Fort Anderson on the opposite band from us which was garrisoned by
the 92nd N.Y, (the fort was a common earthwork in the form of a crescent each tip touching the river,
over the top of the fort the enemy were sending a perfect shower of shots and shell, the enemy ceased firing several
times and sent in a flag of truce for its surrender of the Fort and each time received a decided “NEVER!” from
the commander. A transport soon came up the river, took us on board and crossed over to the assistance of those in
the fort, in crossing we were in great danger of being sunk by the enemy, but landed in safety in about one hour.
There had troops enough crossed to give them
[page 46]
battle. The enemy immediately withdrew but were followed by us about fifteen miles, capturing to pcs. of artillery
and a few prisoners. Night coming on we encamped. We learned from the prisoners taken that the Brigade we
were following was our old enemy (Genl. Pettigrew) who we had charged our artillery at Goldsboro,
who we had often heard said, “He would follow our Brigade to H___l, but that he would use them up, this was on
the anniversary of the capture of New Bern, and they had made a grand effort to take it back.
March 15th
Returned to Fort Anderson on the Neuse, and here learned that the Rebel Genl. Picket had made an attack on the opposite
side of New Bern the day before and had also been defeated.
March 16th
Moved back to our old quarters across the river.
April 7th
On the evening of this day we crossed over to
[page 47]
Fort Anderson, and there formed an expedition for “Little Washington”, a village 30 miles from new Bern,
and situated on the banks of the Tar River where Genl Foster was hemmed in by the Rebels.
April 8th
Started on our march with fifteen Regts. of Infantry, 2 Batteries and one Regt. of cavalry, all under command
of Brigadier Genl. Spinola ( a New York City Rowdy and Politician) he at that time had never had command in
any battle, and it was plain to see that no one had nay confidence in him. We marched to “Blount Mills”
and there had a lively skirmish, and several of our Brigade were wounded, the enemy retreated across a creek
and we expected to follow, but General Spinola thought otherwise and ordered a retreat; we marched back about
9 miles in two hours, so much for Spinola.
April 9th
Once more across the country to New Bern on a different road, and through turpentine farms.
[page 48]
.The enemy reported close in our rear, but hinder the men from running to every house and barn for chickens,
in spite Spinola orders to keep in ranks, every man and officer took pains that he should fully understand their
opinion of this general slip and it is my belief he had rather been almost any where than with the old Brigade that
day. Marched nearly 30 miles and encamped late in the evening.
April 10th
Arrived in New Bern.
April 18th
We again started on the same mission with our Brigade (Genl H. W. Wessells) in command, arriving at “Blounts Mills”,
found the enemy had abandoned this position, here encamped for the night.
April 19th
Captured a few prisoners and encamped at night near the besieged town.
April 20th
On our approach the enemy retreated beyond
[page 49]
the town, we found the soldiers with Genl. Foster without food, and many of the citizens and Negroes,
suffering for want of the same. I found this to be a very beautiful town and being so far from any other village.
It seemed like an oasis in the desert. We remained here until the 26th and then returned to New Bern by boats.
May 5th
Left New Bern on steamer boats down the Neuse, up the Pamlico Sound, Albemarle Sound, and Roanoke River
to Plymouth, N.C. where we arrived on the 6th.
May 6th
This place was taken by Genl Burnside early in the war. It was then a very pretty town, but the Rebels
made a dash into the place Dec. 10, 1862 and burned all the finest buildings. It is situated 9 miles from the mouth
of the Roanoke River and is one of the best (worst) places for fever and ague I have ever found.
I am told it was once the most pleasant town in the state, if so, then like Babylon, its glory and beauty have faded.
[page 50]
[page 51]
then ceased with the exception of sending there one every 15 min. all night. Went into the town in the morning—but
no enemy.
July 7th
Returned to Plymouth.
July 26th
Marched to Gardner’s Bridge and had a skirmish.
July 27th
We had a skirmish near Foster Mills, we gave the grain in the mills to some poor whites and “darkies,” burnt the mills
and returned to Plymouth. Heavy showers and plenty of them.
August
We spent most of the time in having “the ague” for which we took quinine and whiskey, sometimes whiskey and quinine,
but no difference, the “ague” all the same. During this month and Sept. and October, our whole Brigade was reported
unfit for duty in the field, nearly every man had the ague, and many of our soldiers died, (several small detachments
were sent out while here but never made any note of it as something of importance was done.)
[page 52]
December 6th
I with my Co. was detached from the Regt. and started down the river to Roanoke Island in the Albemarle Sound.
80 miles from Plymouth where we landed on the same evening. Here from the north side of the island we had a
different sea breeze which soon began to tell in our looks and strength, it was a “paradise found,” to us after
staying so long in the swampy country around Plymouth.
December 7th
Lt. R.M. Whitney with one half its Co. worked to garrison Fort Foster on the south of Roanoke while I with
the remainder fitted a large building for the men as winter quarters.
December 10th
I learned from a scout that a Co. of Guerrillas were at Hertford, took a transport steamer and arrived there
before day light next morning, we had with us 75 men.
[page 53]
December 11th
Landed early in the morning just below the town, entered and captured 4 men, we were burning the town when we see
four companys of rebels coming toward the town. Formed our line across the street and waited their approach,
at the same time signaling to the steamer to fire with shell (there was but one small 12 pin on the boat) the mate was the only
person on the boat and knew nothing about firing the gun. He however fired a shell and it came so low that it just
barely passed over our heads. The Rebels halted and fired, wounding two of my men in the leg, we returned to find
when we began to get scattering shots from the upper windows of the houses, and on of my men fell mortally wounded
from one of those shots. The Rebels were driving us steadily
[page 54]
toward the river when the gun from the steamer threw a shell right into the rebel ranks. They retreated a short
distance when we had just time to get young Wickes, who had fallen in the second round and lay in the street between
our Co. and the Rebels. We retreated down the banks to the river where we had shelter and gave the Rebels one more
round as they approached, on seeing the steamer, the enemy immediately retreated, thinking no doubt it was a “gun boat”.
Had they have known there was but one small gun on board, they would probably acted differently. We immediately
went o board and steamed down the river. On arriving in the Sound, we took on board a man who was in a sail boat,
said he and two other men had a small steam tug, captured the day before up on the “Big Alligator” River, that when captured
he
[page 55]
had a barge in tow loaded with 2,000 bushels of corn, we then proceeded up the “Big Alligator” River, about 10 ½ p.m.
we over heard an old man and boy in a skiff, loaded with shelled corn, they were taken on board and compelled to
tell where the barge was. It was not deemed safe to proceed further that night and we came to anchor in the middle
of the river until day light.
December 12th
Moved up the river about 10 miles, came to anchor and send some men a short distance up a creek which emptied in
to the river, found the barge which was brought out into the river and taken in tow by the steamer. About 1500 bushels
yet remained in the barge.
December 13th
Returned to Roanoke.
[page 56]
Roanoke Island is about 12 miles long and will average about 2 miles wide, is a very sandy tract of land but
contains a few good plantations. It contained at this time about 300 inhabitants, most of who were without any
education and lived principally by fishing. There were a great people for dancing and wine drinking. The latter was made from the
native grapes called by them the Scuppernong Grapes which were to be found here in great abundance. It was on this island
that “Sir Walter Raleigh landed intending to establish a colony, history I believe records that they remained on this island one
year and then returned to England. I one day visited a spot on this island where could still be seen the outlines
of an earlier fort, said to have been erected by Raleigh to protect them from the Indians. During this winter we
had but little to do, we went on several small expeditions, some times captured a few Guerrillas, but I kept no
record of what was done. On Feb. and March I had the “ague” again very badly. Sometimes with fever would be crazy.
[page 57]
April 20th, 1864
A boat came down from Plymouth and informed us the “Rebel Ram” Albemarle had come down the Roanoke River and
cut off our Brigade and the remaining 9 companies of our Regt. in the afternoon. Another came loaded with men,
women, and children, refugees from Plymouth and informed us there were also having a desperate fight with two
divisions of Rebels on the west side.
April 24th, 1864
Plymouth was again captured by the Rebels and our Brigade, all prisoners and our Co. was all that then remained
of the 85 Regt. During the summer several attempts were made to remove the blockade in the mouth of the river
and retake the town which however was not accomplished until the Ram was sunk by Lt. Cushing. In December,
my Co. and three other Co’s. of Infantry proceeded on board the gun boat, Shamrock
[page 58]
up the “Little River” which empties into the Albemarle Sound at its head, and a few miles to the right of the
Roanoke. We were accompanied by five other gun boats, the river was very narrow, just wide enough to admit the
boats but very deep, this was not supposed navigable. The Rebels they were not looking for a movement of this kind,
several miles above Plymouth, we came in to the Roanoke River, as soon as all the boats were in readiness,
we pushed down the river to Plymouth. As each boat neared the town they fired a broadside into the town.
It took the Rebels by surprise, and they could be seen flying from the town in any direction. The town was recaptured
with out its loss of a man on our side. On entering the town every building was found to be riddled with shot from our boats,
about 1200 other troops were sent us and we remained and garrisoned the town.
[page 59]
January 1st, 1865
An expedition of about 1500 men were organized to go to Rain Bow Bluff, about 40 miles up the river,
to capture a fort at that place and to destroy another Rebel _______, said to be building there. We marched about
15 miles and waited for the gun boats to come up the river, about 5 p.m the boats passed on up the river and we
again proceeded on our march. The night was quite cold, but clear, about 8 p.m. we came on to a small squad of Rebel rickets,
these the cavalry charged and we passed on, about once every half hour from this time till 8 a.m. we would find Rebel pickets,
which would halt our column just long enough to scatter them to the woods, and while this was going on the men
not interested at the front would take this opportunity to visit the
[page 60]
the chicken roosts and meat house along the road, and it was hard to tell which made the most noise,
chickens or pickets. Just before day light we met with more resistance and halted, formed our lines,
no enemy appeared in our front, two Regts. were there sent from to right of our lines to make a flank movement,
when a short distance from us on a crossroad, they came upon a Battalion of Rebel Infantry. It was still quite dark
and they supposed we were some of the troops from the Bluff, coming to their support, when they found their mistake
they surrendered without firing a gun. There were with this Battalion of the enemy, one colonel, one major,
and one surgeon captured, the other officers
[page 61]
escaped us. A strong picket force was there but at the front, rear, and on each side of us, this formed a complete
hollow square, we could not tell from what direction we were in most danger and thus took this precaution.
The men then made fires and cooked their chickens, the Rebel Colonel ate with us, was a very social good natured
fellow and laughed about the manner in which he had been caught. He told us how he had planned to attack us,
if his support had been sent him and had it all worked as he expected, we should have been his prisoners instead of
his being ours. The road we had come run parallel with the river but at this point the river was about 5 miles off on our right, and
[page 62]
as a large force of the enemy would soon be on hand, it was quite necessary for us to once more communicate with
the boats on the river but no signals were answered. Soon we heard loud cannoning from the river, a scout
came in camp and informed the Genl. That, the gun boat, “Chickopee” had run on a torpedo and sunk and that the other
boats had been much disabled from a land battery and thus they were now leaving us and passing down the river,
“all we could do now was to retreat, or all be captured, or killed.” The column was immediately started on our
return march, we reached Jameston and there had a fight, lasting about half an hour. The gun boat White Head came down
and opened a heavy fire upon the enemy when they again retreated giving
[page 63]
us a chance to move on, an opportunity which we did not fail to impose. We reached that night a secure place near
the river that evening and encamped. The enemy made one more attempt in the morning but were shelled back by the boats.
The next day we marched back to Plymouth having accomplished nothing. Lost one gun boat sunk and three other
badly disabled. While we were here quite a number of our old Regt. escaped from prison and returned to us.
We also received about 80 new recruits, the Regt. now number about 200 men, and were divided into two Cos.
I was now placed in command of the Co. of recruits and on the evening of the 16th went on board the steamer Mussasait
and returned to Roanoke Island.
[page 64]
January 25th
We went on an expedition up the Chowan River, to capture some Rebel commissary stores said to be at Harrellsville,
we went 20 miles up the river by steamer and then marched 9 miles to the town. Near the town we surprised a Co. of Rebel Cavalry
(the cavalry were in a thick pine grove) while they were at dinner, we charged them from their camp, they not firing a shot,
captured six of their men, then moved into the town we captured 80 bales of cotton, a large number of houses, 35 horses and mules,
we had with us less than 200 men, and it became necessary we should leave as soon as possible as a larger body of the enemy
might soon be upon us. We started on our return to the river about dart. Lt. R.M. Whitney was commanding the advance
guard (or Co.) beyond the train and I the rear, about 9 p.m. we found a Co., of the enemy was following us. The
[page 65]
column was halted and I faced my Co. to the rear in a line across the road, sent a Sergt. With 5 men a few rods
in advance and to the left in the field, the same on the right, ordered the men to sit down in line across the road and
keep quite. The Rebel Co. came down within ten rods of us and as it was quite dark could not see us.
The Sergt. with the men on the left in front, commanded them to halt, at the same time his five men fired, a scattering fire
was retuned up the enemy, I then see them quite plain, I gave the order Fire! Every man fired and retreated back down
the road knocking me down as they did so, I soon had them all right again but the enemy had fled.
(my men were all recruits and had never been under fire before). When I first formed my line and was waiting for the enemy I gave my horse to a young boy
[page 66]
of the Co. to hold, I told him to keep with the train, out of danger, but the first shots fired he let the horse go
and returned to me and almost immediately received a rifle ball through his thigh from the effects of which he died
one week after. He was the only one who received any wound. I had become much attached to him and regretted the death
of this boy friend very much. I afterwards learned that, we killed five of the enemy but I did not know that evening if
we killed any.
January 26th
Shipped our captured property on transports and returned to Roanoke Island.
February 15th
We made an expedition up the Chowan River, this time after men who had enlisted in the Union Army
[page 67]
had gone home on furlough and could not return on account of the Guerrillas. A few miles up the river we found
and took on board two men at Swan Landing, I took 15 men and searched on the right bank. Lt. Whitney with about
the same number searched on the other side. I had about 4 miles march back in the county then 12 miles up the river,
where the boat was to anchor. Next morning I went by direction of a guide who came with us, just before dark,
found 4 more men, then proceeded to a house owned by a man who belonged to the Guerrillas, had also a son, with them,
on arriving at the house, found several ladies there visiting. They were strong, they did not care about seeing us.
They however consented to get supper for the men we had picked up
[page 68]
When supper was about half ready, I heard several guns fired some distance away. I called the men in line and
started to find the cause, as we passed out of the yard, one of the woman came out and said, “Oh, our men is coming!
You’ll get it now!” I thought something of the kind myself, but said nothing, resolved that if not driven back to the river,
I would surely come back and stay to Tea. I found it to be some of the sailors from the boat firing signals to find us.
Came back, none of the women said a word, had supper ready when we arrived. All who wished eat supper, and paid for it,
which changed the looks of the ladies very much, as they had not expected that. The man’s son came in to the yard on horseback, past
[page 69]
past as we were leaving, had not seen us and surrendered himself and horse to us. I encamped one mile from
this house at a place called “the Trap” next morning we proceeded up the river, and found in all 16 men.
Arrived at the Landing in safety and retuned to Roanoke Island.
February 20th
I was appointed Adjutant 85th Regt.
February 26th
Started with the Regt. for New Bern on board the steamer “Rockland”, and arrived then on the evening of 28th
here we joined the 23rd Army Corps under Genl. Schofield, who was organizing his corps to meet Genl. Sherman.
March 6th
We started once more towards Goldsboro over the same road we had taken with Genl. Foster in 1863.
Encamped to nights 16 miles from New Bern near the railroad.
[page 70]
March 7th
Marched to day to our old battle field near Kinston, a division was already there in advance of us, they had a
little fighting in the morning, but were now engaged in throwing up breastworks. The men had just had time to get
dinner when the Regt. and a battalion of a Mass. Regt. were ordered to the front. Two Pcs. of artillery had been left in the
morning by the troops engaged in the fight, these were about one mile in advance on the road towards Kinston,
after going a short distance we could see the guns we were after in the road, the Mass. Battalion, marched in the woods
on the left of the road and we on the right, we soon observed a few Rebel skirmishes in front of us, they immediately retreated. Our line was then
[page 71]
I heard our Regimental commander call my name—I knew well what was to be done, he said “Take a line of skirmishes
and see what is in our front!” I thought of what I told the recruits that night near Harrellsville, --now the time had
come and I would try them again. I formed them in skirmish line and advanced…we soon met the Rebel skirmishers
and my men acted well, we passed a lively fire for some minutes, where I observed a large body of the enemy passing
around to the right of us, I could also tell by the firing from the Massachusetts battalion that the enemy were
driving them back. I ordered my front line to retreat back then a proper distance, load and wait until the other
lines fired and retreated in this manner. I retreated back to the Regt.
[page 72]
. I formed my men on the right flank of the Regt. and by that time a whole rebel division was in our front,
we made a desperate resistance, but to no avail, our small force could do nothing against so great an odds,
the enemy were fast closing around us, when the order “Save yourselves if you can!” was given, it was every man for himself,
the rifle balls were cutting limbs from the trees and bushes around our heads at every step. We reached the
breastworks where the main force was stationed and that was all, “they cheered us as we came in and Genl. Carter,
said “you done well to get back, when I heard the firing I did not expect to see you return.”
Our men were then placed along the works in side. We had hardly time to get rested when the enemy attacked out works, on the
[page 73]
right, left, and centre, they charged over works in the most determined manner, but were each time repulsed once
they came very near breaking through our works in the rear where they were not yet completed.
After about two hours the enemy withdrew, the men were then engaged until dark in strengthening the works.
In this days fight there were seventeen men in the Regt. wounded, but most of them received wounds while on the skirmish line in the woods.
Rained all night, and as we were without shelter, we were wet through, cold and wearied out.
March 8th
Little was done today, except picket firings, received more reenforcements from New Bern.
March 9th
They made an attack this morning and were repulsed with heavy loss. In the afternoon the enemy were reported
to be retreating across the river in Kinston.
[page 74]
March 11th
We advanced to Kinston and met with on opposition.. Marched just beyond the town and encamped where we did in 1863.
March 13th
I went back to New Bern by Rail Road on business for Brigade Hd. Qtrs.
March 16th
Returned to Kinston
March 18th
We marched to Goldsboro, had a little skirmish near the town, in the evening we could hear
Genl. Sherman’s Army fighting far away to the south. Afterwards ascertained that the firing we heard was
his fight with Johnston 18 miles from Goldsboro.
This ended our fighting in the great Rebelion, Genl Sherman Army soon arrived, and then after
a short rest for his army, passed on to Raleigh, and my Regt. returned to
[page 75]
“Mosley Hall,” a small station on the Rail Road between Kinston and Goldsboro.
I was there appointed Post Adjutant and severed in that capacity until June when we were ordered to New Bern.
I was then assigned to the command of Co. C and mustered that Co. out of the service..
‘thus ends my diary of the war, and in writing this over again, how it carried me back in thought to those old days of army life, of the hardships endured, the many true friends I formed who helped
to make that rough life a happy one, but alas: many of them are gone now,
they are sleeping in their quiet graves down there---but not forgotten.”
M
Transcribed by: Joyce Hicks
|
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Link, Martin Diary (1862-1865) |
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Link, Martin Diary (1862-1865) |
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Link, Martin, 1842 - |
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Link, Martin, 1842 - |
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Link, Martin Diary (1862-1865)Link, Martin, 1842 -Link, Martin, 1842-; United States. Army. New York Infantry, 85th; Fair Oaks, Battle of, Va., 1862; Williamsburg, Battle of, Williamsburg, Va., 1862; United States--History--Civil War, 1861-1865History – 1838-1874: Sectionalism, the Civil War and Reconstruction; Peoples -- Military Life; Government and Politics -- MilitaryThis is the 126-page memoir of Martin Link who served with the 85th New York Voluntary Infantry. Diary notes made between March 1862 and 1865 serve as the basis for the memoir. Information about battles at Fair Oaks, Yorktown, and Williamsburg in Virginia and Kingston and Goldsboro in North Carolina is included.Auburn University Libraries1862-186575 pagesTextPDFRG 0398This image is the property of the Auburn University Libraries and is intended for non-commercial use. Users of the image are asked to acknowledge the Auburn University Libraries. For information about obtaining high-resolution copies of this and other images in this collection, please contact the Auburn University Libraries Special Collections & Archives Department at archives@auburn.edu or (334) 844-1732.www.american-south.orghttp://content.lib.auburn.edu/u?/findingaids,182engMartin Link MemoirAuburn University Libraries. Special Collections and Archives.[page 1]
Mary Goodwin
Farmers Valley, Pa.
[page 2]
Excelsior Diary for 1870
[page 3]
Contents
Eclipses for 1870
Morning stars
Evening stars
Church Days
[page 4]
Calendar for 1870
January February
[page 5]
March April
May June
On the outskirts of the town we erected forts and a line of earth works around the town on the land side.
July 5th
Our Regt. and one other went on an expedition to Williamston, 32 miles up the river. Two other Regts. proceeded
up the river on gun boats. The country was very poor and we would not pass a house but once in 4 or 5 miles,
the people lived mostly by fishing.
July 6th
At night we came in sight of Williamston, a few rebel soldiers were in the town but left without notice.
A flag of truce was then sent in, with notice for the citizens to leave. The mayor of the town claimed to have a force
beyond the town and said he thought it prudent, but could not himself surrender the place. The women and children
having left, the gun boats came up and commenced to bombard the town, and we could see the light from every shell,
as they went crashing through the houses, the rebels did not return the fire and ours
[page 6]
July August
September October
[page 7]
November December
stamp duties
[page 8]
stamp duties
[page 9]
stamp duties
Rates of Postage
[page 10]
Difference of Time
Distances from New York
[page 11]
Presidents of the United States
[page 12]
1870 Diary
When I first commenced the following diary sometimes making a note of the weary days march while in my tent at
night with a dreary storm with out at the other times when seated around our camp fire with a clear and star
lit sky above us I only intended to quote down a few of the dates and places. So that in after years I could
more correctly remember what I had passed through. But I little thought then I should be here now to reproduce
it again for you. If I had, I should have given more of my thoughts as they occurred and not left it the mere
sketch you will find it to be. But such as it is, I write it for you; and if in it you shall find anything to
interest you for a passing hour, I shall be well repaid for doing so.---------
Mart …. To Mary
[page 13]
The first 8 months in the service of “Uncle Sam” I passed in Elmira and Washington. I kept no diary during that
time as nothing was transpiring worthy of notes. I was at that time a Sergeant Major of the Regt. which is a
non-commissioned office on the Colonels Staff. The duties are to see that each “Co” furnish their proper number
of men for Guard and other duty, attend parades, and assist in fortifying lines of battle. We arrived in
Washington, D.C., Dec. 6, 1861 when our colonel first took command of the Regt. He deprived me of the position
I held, telling me he had promised it to his son-in-law before I was appointed by the Lieut. Colonel.
Would give me a better position when he could. I then formed Co. A and offered to serve as a private until
I earned for myself a position. If
[page 14]
that should ever be. I done no duty during the winter except what I volunteered to do, non being required of me,
owing to do former position I had held, this is about all during this time of any importance.
On the 27th of March 1862 we were notified that we were to form the “Army of the Potomac” under Gen. McClellan,
then starting for Virginia via Fortress Monroe to the Peninsula and here my diary commences.
1862—Mar. 28th
Left Washington City, crossed its long bridge on the Potomac, arrived at Alexandria in the morning,
was put in command of the Guards of its city for the night, weather very cold, walked about the streets all night,
visited my guards about once an hour. Guards arrested one man—enquired his business and found him to be all right, was invited to his house, went in and was offered some
[page 15]
some “Potato Whiskey” to warm me up, thought once of poison, but under the circumstances drank some of the whiskey;
no poison, but don’t think I like potatoes in this style.
29th
Staid in the city all day. Regt. moved out side and pitched their tents.
30th
Regt. returned to the city and went on board steam boats for the night, being acquainted with the steward on the
steamer “Ocean Queen”, I staid with him, found splendid accommodations…..Thanks to Fred.
31st
Our whole division starts for Ft. Monroe on board the boats. Weather fine.
April 1st
Had a fine view of Mount Vernon Estate on the Potomac, came into Chesapeake Bay in the afternoon.
April 2nd
Landed at Hampton City on the James just above Fort Monroe, Va. This is an ancient town and was nearly all
burned by the Rebels in the commencement of the war.
Major K and myself visited the old burying ground back of the towne. Some very old tombs, many dating
back to 1570. On our return
[page 16]
to camp met several of the chivalry and some ladies. They have the appearance of wealth but with all have a
degenerate look, not met with in people at the north.
April 3rd
Left Hampton City and marched to Newport News on the banks of the James River and encamped for the night.
I was here made only Sergt. Co. A and while at the same camp on the 13th received the whole vote of the Co.,
excepting six for 2nd Lieutenant.
April 16th
Left Newport News and took up our line of march towards Richmond, passed “Warwick Court House” which is a small
town of only a dozen houses. The court house from which the town derived, its name is one of the oldest
in the U.S. is also very small, the weather very warm and many of the soldiers are throwing away
[page 17]
much of their clothing, blankets. Only to wish they had them again at night, we encamp in the woods tonight
without tents distance marched 20 miles. Men very much fatigued generally. Night beautiful and warm.
April 17th
Moved forward to Camp Winfield Scott, about one mile from York Town and here put up our tents, could hear the Rebel
cannon from their forts in town, very plain and which very much reminds us that war is a stern reality
and that very soon we must take our part in it. We remained at this camp until the 3rd of May, had one skirmish
with Rebel pickets during the time; I was one day away, our picket line in front of York Town when the Colonel
told me he was about to send a company as new as possible to the Rebel Forts, to ascertain the exact position of
the enemy pickets.
[page 18]
I knew by his mentioning the matter to me that he desired me to advance the line, I saw plainly the dangers that
would attend me, but resolved to volunteer to do it rather than to have any man think I dare not without an order.
I took the men he ordered to go and started down a lane and direct towards the Rebel Forts, we had gone but a
short distance when I saw plainly that in order to reach our destination, we should be obliged to crawl on our hands
and knees. This we done, crawling in this manner nearly one half mile when we came to a fence running
diagonally to the lane, along this was very thick brush which shielded the men from the Rebels sight.
The day was very hot and the men suffered much, after resting a while I gave the men
[page 19]
their instruction to divide their numbers and crawl to the right and left along the fence and wait for further
orders. Just before dark I found a position where with the aid of a field glass, I could see the position of
the Rebel Forts and while looking, their attention was attracted towards my line of men along the fence,
a moment more a gun was pointed toward the left of the line and a shell came singing over the extreme left,
burst far in our men. My heart beats fast then, I knew if any man got up and ran away we were surely gone,
but though they fired several times their shots flew far to high to think they must have seen one of the men but
were not themselves positive. About 10 p.m. we were ordered back by Genl. Casey. We were all safe in camp at
midnight, sore, tired, and hungry.
[page 20]
Our camp at this place was marshy and wet and very many of the troops suffered with fever, and though several
nights I lay drenched in rain, I received no illness from it, and the water we drank was the same you
will find in any swamp. Much labor was done here by the troops in the line of repairing roads in our area in
order to bring in supplies.
May 3rd
The Rebels evacuated York Town on the 4th, our division was ordered in pursuit with one days rations,
we marched into York Town and there had a good fun of all their forts and the ones I had before seen through my
glass. I was here shown the place where Cornwallis surrendered his sword to Washington. A small monument marks
the spot. York Town is only a town by name, aside from forts and earthworks, we did not return to our camp at
night as was expected. The men were without blankets or anything
[page 21]
to keep them warm except what had on, at dark it began to rain.
May 5th
Rained all day. Roads almost impossible for the whole of our own and the Rebels had passed over these within
two days. We were ordered forward early in the morning and soon heard the roar of artillery and musketry ahead
and soon commenced passing broken army wagons, cannons stuck fast in the mud, dead horses and mules also.
Many straylers which the firing had made suddenly sick, we were soon in sight of the Battlefield of Williamsburg.
On arriving we were given our position on the extreme left, in a piece of woods to hold the line at that point
in case they tried our flank, stray shells from the Rebel cannons made many a sad gap in our line that day,
but with our muskets we could not return a single shot but remained in our position till dark.
[page 22]
. As darkness closed over us, firing ceased on both sides, a more wet and dreary night than this I never passed
in Va. The men were without rations and no blankets or overcoats but in spite of all this I heard many singing
songs of home and a good many more swearing. To sleep was an impossibility, as it rained continually and they
must do something the next morning. “Hard tack” would have commenced a good price, if there had been any in
market.
May 7th
We moved to the right of the battlefield and encamped. I passed this day visiting the different parts of the
fields where such a scene of strife had just passed over, dead men and horses were to be seen in every direction
and but for these evidences it all seemed like a horrid dream.
[page 23]
May 10th
Left Williamsburg this morning, marched ten miles towards Richmond, the country where we encamped to night has
a much better appearance than I have seen in Va.
May 11th
I have heard much dissatisfaction manifested amongst officers today because Genl. McClellan does not push ahead,
roads are bad, but now is the time if ever.
May 12th
Was detailed as officer of the picket guard tonight. Picket line about one mile in advance of our camp.
Night very warm and fine, the moon shines brightly and out thoughts were back to the time when at home we thought not of war. Got some supper this evening.
Just outside the line was a house, I was told belonged to a Colonel in the Rebel Army. House occupied by
the mothers and daughters and two servants. I asked one of the “Darkies” if the rebels went that way “Yes” massa,
dey did, dey diddent run, but dey flewed.
[page 24]
May 13th
Received orders to relieve my guards this morning and follow any Regt. which had already started. Marched all
day and most of the night, on our march we passed many relics of the Rebel Army, such as spiked cannons,
abandoned wagons and their property.
May 14th
Morning, I find we are at New Kent Courthouse, am nearly sick today. Rains hard, this place looks dismal and
lonely, the face of the country low and swampy.
May 17th
Broke camp at day light, marched to the “White House” (residence of Genl. Lee) near the railroad running to
Richmond, passed a few fine plantations and many huts of the poor whites. Their lands mostly grown up with small
pines where you could see the trace of old cornfields, these farms so called appears to you as though the
brush and trees had got the
[page 25]
start of the people, and had driven the farm into a compass of about three acres and this planted with sweet
potatoes, collards and corn. While here the men received their tents which they had been without since leaving
York Town.
May 19th
Marched to the Chickahominy River, distance made today (13) miles, heard a little musketry firing in the evening.
May 20th
Our brigade was ordered to the front—advanced about one mile and formed our lines of Battle. Four cannons were
brought up and our infantry stationed to its right and left for support. Two shots were fired from a Rebel battery
which brought the limbs from the trees above our heads in a lively manner. The firing was then kept up
on both sides for about four hours when the Rebel guns were silenced, loss to our Regt. one man killed.
Rained all this afternoon was wet through, and I got neither dry nor warm this night.
[page 26]
May 22nd
Our division (Genl. Casey’s) crossed the river and encamped at “Fair Oaks”, in the afternoon our Regt. made a
reconnaissance to find the Rebel Pickets. Found their line and returned to camp. Our camp in a large field of
many hundred acres, with thick woods in our front, road running through Richmond. Can hear their drums beat in
the capitol of the Confederacy to night. The enemy are only one mile from our camp, and our pickets kept up a
continued firing every night. Through the day time our division is employed in throwing up rifle pits and
building redouts.
May 30th
The Dr. tells me I shall have a run of the fever, took some quinine and whiskey.
May 31st
Could eat nothing this morning, took more of the “medicine.” At 10 a.m. a shell came flying over the centre of
our camp, a few moments more and two others were fired. One far away on our right, tho, other on left line. Genl Palmer riding by said this
[page 27]
“means business” and so it proved to be on this day (31st) our division fought the Battle of Fair Oaks.
Commenced about 10 a.m. and ending at dark (I once wrote a description of this Battle to a friend and afterwards
saw my letter published in the Olean paper, but I did not write it down in my diary). I was completely used up,
not only from sickness, but from the effects of a rifle ball striking my right side. Our division numbered in
the morning 6,000 for duty, loss in this Battle in the division 1,500.
At dark we were sent to the rear and fresh troops took our place at the front. All our clothing was lost,
except what we had on, and I slept in same clothes which were wet through, rained nearly all night and no shelter.
June 1st
The cannons commenced roaring loudly at our old battleground this morning which was soon succeeded by musketry.
The fight lasted nearly all the forenoon and ended by the enemy being driven back in front of Richmond,
their loss in tow days was about 10,000 killed and wounded.
[page 28]
June 2nd
The division moved back to “Poplar Hill”. I was left in our old camp until evening unable to sit up, or scarcely
move without help. In the morning was carried back to our new camp.
June 3rd
The Regiment has been felling timber and building breastworks all day, this backward movement I do not understand,
some say we are to strike the James at Charles City, then to Richmond. Large numbers of our soldiers died
from sickness and exposure while at this camp. I was ordered by the surgeon to be carried to the field
hospital but preferred to stay in camp. I passed the dreary time at this camp until the 25th when Genl McClellan’s
retreat commenced. Our division received orders to move two miles to the river this morning, taking no camp equipment,
no one thought then it was to be a musterly (cowardly) retreat. I was left in camp with several other sick and
wounded. About noon several men came to camp to help us back to Regt.
[page 29]
and telling us the whole Army was retreating and the enemy then within two miles march of our camp, one of these
men carried me across a creek and on to the hill where our division was stationed, while the Rebels were
bringing a battery in position within a quarter of a mile of us. (this man’s name was “Daniel White” all thanks
to him; friends are very few, they would not have left me to the mercy of the Rebels) This day the seven days
fight commenced and was fought as follows, 25th Mechanicsville, 26th Peach Orchard, 27th Savage’s Station,
28th Allens Field, 29th White Oaks Swamp, 30th Glen Dale, July 1 Malvern Hill, on this hill I saw the whole of the
Army of the Potomac stationed and witnessed the struggle between its convening Armies. The fight on our side was
mostly by artillery in which was engaged every battery in the Potomac Army.
July 2nd & 3rd
Our Regt. was on picket until about 10 p.m. on the evening of the 3rd when they marched to
[page 30]
Harrison Landing on the James, the scene presented on nearing the river was such as I hope never to see again.
Mud was knee deep in the best of the roads, and in the worst places were dead horses and mules, that had
stuck fast and were killed. Wagons were left by the hundreds and it on fire, barrels of coffee, beef, rice and
everything pertaining to an Army could be found broken up and emptied in to the mud to keep from capture by
the Rebels. Add to this all that moving mass of hungry, tired and mudy soldiers, and you have our army as it was on
this entrance to Harrison Landing as day light on the morning of this 4th of July, 1862.
July 4th, 1862
Genl McClellan inspected his Army, the most of the Regts. cheered him loudly. The day was passed in celebrating
and a loud roar of artillery was kept up until dark. This place an excellent fortification, being on a
high elevation and surrounded on its land side by swamps, river in the rear and gun boats to protect.
[page 31]
July 5th
I found myself unable to walk, the Col. Visited me and gave me an order for transportation to New York City,
also a general level order from Genl. Keyes, Comdg. Corps, detailing me on recruiting service for the corps
as soon as my health would permit.
July 6th
I was carried on the steamer “Elm City” bid adieu to all my old comrades and sailed for the north.
July 8th
Arrived in N.Y. Harbor in the evening. Sailed out to David Island twenty miles from New York.
I was there admitted in the general hospital. This island contained about 200 sick and wounded soldiers. The kind attention
I have received together with the refreshing air from off the Atlantic soon enabled me to leave the hospital.
July 23rd
Visited the Genl. Surgeon in charge of hospital to get transportation to the city. The surgeon said I think you
are just such an officer as I have here, I will see Genl Brown to day in N.Y. and have
[page 32]
you permanently detailed here to take command of a Co. of guards for the island. I thought then of my promise
to my Co. way down in Va., how I told them when they gave me a position that I would not leave them while the
war lasted. I told him I could not accept his kind offer but would organize this Co. and take charge of them
until he could get someone to suit him.
July 25th
Organized a company of 75 men from the convalescents of the hospital. These men were to remain until fit for
service in the field when they would be sent away and others taken to fill up the vacancy this made.
These Guards were to look after the government property on the island, see that no soldier deserted from the hospital also
see that order was maintained by the men and women employed there. ( I will here state a little circumstance which
happened
[page 33]
during the few days I remained here. I gave orders to the guards to arrest all persons they found intoxicated
and put them in the guard house. One morning I came out and found they had arrested four persons, one a young medical
student who was acting as hospital steward, two men employed as workmen, and one woman, a nurse. All had been
noisy and thus got arrested. A beautiful scene that, but I think I can safely vouch for two of that number who
would not come to be seen there again).
From the 25th I discontinued my diary for some time. Afterward wrote some in another which was lost. But about
to the first of August, I went to the City and reported by letter to Adjutant Genl Sprague at Albany, for orders
where to open a recruiting office, he recommended Elmira or such other place as I should think best. Taking as a
district the counties of Ontario and Chemung. I suppose I need not tell you any more of this, as it would not be
at all interesting and will only
[page 34]
tell you how I got heartily tired of this. Gentleman soldiering and being as strong and well as ever, I once more
longed to be with my Co. in the field. I was hearing from some of them every week urging me to get relieved
and join them. About the last of August I wrote Genrl. Sprague to be relieved but it was not granted until
November. When one quite cold evening I took the cars at Elmira for Baltimore, from there by steamer
to Norfolk, Va., Ft. Monroe from there by rail again to Suffolk, Va, where I found my Regt. in winter quarters
and at this camp.
I commenced my diary again, we had left the Potomac Army and joined to those further south, Nov. 17th our brigade
started on an expedition to Blackwater, Va, a distance of about 30 miles. Taking with us Pontoon bridges with
which to cross that river and take the enemies works, reached the river
[page 35]
river about 10 p.m. rested until morning when a lively salutation of hard shot and shell was kept up for some time.
Finally our forces threw a pontoon across and some moved over, then the Bridge broke, and others being too short,
the attack was abandoned. Our Brigade returned to Suffolk.
December 5th
We started for North Carolina, it rained most of the day, mud very deep. The county was swampy and low. Marched about
23 miles and camped for the night. Men tired out.
December 6th
Continued our march, weather was as bad as ever and roads worse, but with one Brigade, so far in our enemies country
could do nothing but push on, we arrived in the village of Gatesville in the evening, a very small town.
December 7th
The weather once more fine and warm. Marched about 3 miles to the Chowan River where we took steamer boats and past
down the river through Albemarle Sound, past Roanoke Island, through the Pamlico Sound by Hatteras and up
[page 36]
up the Neuse River to New Bern N.C. where we landed on the 10th and encamped in the evening just out side the city.
Major Genl Foster Comdg. here was organizing and expedition to go to Goldsboro, N.C. and having nothing but
new troops, had sent for us to come and do the fighting. So it looked and proved to be.
December 11th
We were again on the march towards Kinston the country through which we passed was mostly covered with pine timber and
called by the natives Turpentine farms. Scarcely a tree could be seen but what had been tapped and were covered
with pitch. There the soldiers would set on fire as we passed along and at night it made one of the grandest
scenes imaginable and it the enemy had choosed to follow in our rear they could have had plenty of light.
Marched about 15 miles and encamped on a large plantation. There were estimated to be about 3,000 bushels of
sweet potatoes buried on the farm, they were nearly all taken
[page 37]
taken by the soldiers and roasted and what they could not eat was carried away with them. Turkeys, chickens,
and pigs met the same fate and most of our other expeditions Rebel property had been carefully guarded now,
nothing was in the line of eatables. We had bought but three days rations with us and therefore must make
the confederacy feed us. And I soon learned that my Darkey cook knew where to find the best.
We were now getting in a higher country, the air was dry and the weather was most delightful, just warm enough
through the day to be most delicious, at night there would be a little frost.
December 12th
Were on the march all day, met with several different squads of Rebel Pickets on our road, most of which our Co.
of Cavalry captured. Encamped in the woods to night, distance 16 miles today.
December 13th
The new troops which had until now taken the advance were given the rear, while we took the lead, we moved
along with more caution to day and our march was one continual
[page 38]
skirmish all day. When we meet their pickets, our column would halt until we drove them out, thus we continued
all day making but a short distance, and encamped at night within half a mile of the enemy. The men were
ordered by Major Genl Foster not to light any fires, but they finding our Brigadier did not care whether they
obeyed that order or not, soon had fires in every direction and were making as much noise as thought the enemy
had been a hundred miles away.
December 14th
Early this morning our picket line woke us by a lively musketry fire which lasted some time, in our front was a
heavy belt of timber, beyond that again were cleared fields, where the enemy were stationed along the banks
of the Neuse River. We were ordered immediately to the front and then the Battle of Kinston commenced, which
was the greatest battle had there been fought in North Carolina, the fight opened
[page 39]
by artillery firing on both sides, this was done on our part to attract the attention of the enemy towards the
center of our line, two Regts. were then ordered to make a flank movement from the left of our line, a similar
movement of our Regt. and the 89 was on the right leaving three Regts. still facing the enemy; thus forming three
sides of a hollow square. The three Regts. in the centre then made a change and at the same time, the right, and left
flank. Regts. closed in upon them giving the enemy a heavy cross fire. The fight lasted about 1.5 hours,
when the enemy were driven across the river and lost about 600 prisoners, four pieces of artillery,
and considerable amount of Army stores. The Rebels had prepared three large piles of cotton on the river bridge across
which they retreated on this they had poured turpentine, these piles they set on fire before half their numbers
had crossed, as we pressed them closely and the bridge being crowded full of men
[page 40]
.Many of them were compelled by the heat from the fire to jump in to the river from off the bridge, which was
about 20 feet from the water, on arriving at the bridge we extinguished the fires and found three men burned to death.
(I have seen many horrible sights in battle, but never on that affected me so much as this as my Co. had just
passed over the bridge I heard two quite loud explosions, which for an instant quite deafened me, and could not
tell in what direction they were but immediately I heard one of the men say “there it hit me, another I am wounded,
I am wounded,” I also found my left hand bleeding, and the skirt of my coat torn (the latter did not hurt much as I remember)
We halted and found the cause which was small hand grenade left in the road upon which the men had trodden,
many more were found but were carefully removed, we then moved on and entered the village of Kinston,
about one mile from the river.
[page 41]
This we found to be quite a pretty town, the enemy formed their lines again just beyond the town, but as soon as
our artillery came up and opened fire they fled. We moved on about five miles and encamped, “loss in our Brigade, 140.
December 16th
We recrossed the river, burnt the bridge, which they had tried to do, Genl. Foster now took the advance with his
new troops, and the artillery with him towards Goldsboro, about noon they cannoning was heard in advance, about 3 p.m. we
came up with the advance and found they had engaged the enemy since early in the forenoon at “White Hull,” giving
the rebels a lively artillery fight across the river. Seen enemy wounded carried to the rear. In this we took no
pride, but the position we took as their support, brought us within range of every shot fired from the Rebels.
On the evening of this day, the Rebels were reinforced and crossed the river a few miles above us at the Rail Road Bridge at Goldsboro.
December 17th
We fought the “Battle of Goldsboro,” they were again
[page 42]
defeated and drove into the town, we then burnt the rail road bridge, and tore up the track for some distance,
the artillery were left in a field near the river to be ready in case the enemy returned while we moved back about
half a mile on a hill, here the men got something to eat, after which they lounged about upon the grass,
some smoking, some playing checkers, and all enjoying themselves finely when a loud shout from the artillery sent
them flying for their guns. It seems that the Rebel Genl Pettigrew and his Brigade had crossed the river above us,
and was just coming out of the woods to the left, and in front of us making a charge upon our artillery in
the valley below, and when we first see them they were so near to our artillery, that our help was out of the question,
from where we stood we could see every man in the Rebel Brigade, and they made the grandest charge
[page 43]
I ever witnessed from either side. The enemy seemed almost on to our artillery before our artillery fired a gun,
but every gun sent them death, at the same instant, the Rebels retreated, and with a yell returned the charge
three times in succession, when they were scattered in every direction. As near as I could tell this lasted
about 15 minutes from the time they came out of the woods. Many of the enemy took this opportunity to desert lying
down in the woods until the main force had passed when they came into our lines.
The object of the expedition being now accomplished we once more turned toward New Bern, (had it not have been we
should have been obliged to return for we had not ammunition enough left to have stood an hours fight).
We marched nearly half the night, and encamped on a large plantation near Kinston, the roads were dry and weather
still fine, soon as the men were at liberty, small fires were made in every direction to cook their suppers by,
the night was just a little foggy and with all these fires, scattered on those
[page 44]
hills, with the men moving about there, it made one of the grandest pictures I ever beheld.
December 18th
Continued on our return march and at night was with 12 miles of New Bern, here we encamped and sent out men for
forage for both men and horses.
December 21st
We again entered New Bern, bringing with us a long train of contrabands, prisoners, and refugees from the Rebels.
We crossed the Trent River and encamped. New Bern is one of the oldest towns in N.C., is situated at the
confluence of the Neuse and Trent Rivers and formerly contained about 8,000 inhabitants, but now few were left.
Here we remained until April, and passed a very pleasant time; we went on three expeditions during the winter to
quiet the different bands of guerrillas; but nothing of importance was done. And here I closed my diary again
until we should again be called to the field.
March 14th, 1863
Found us encamped on the banks of the Neuse River having moved from our old quarters on the Trent during the winter
[page 45]
and the men were ready for any thing, except staying longer in camp. Early in the morning of this day,
we were awakened by cannoning across the river. I went out to the river and see that a Rebel Brigade of artillery
and infantry were attempting the capture of Fort Anderson on the opposite band from us which was garrisoned by
the 92nd N.Y, (the fort was a common earthwork in the form of a crescent each tip touching the river,
over the top of the fort the enemy were sending a perfect shower of shots and shell, the enemy ceased firing several
times and sent in a flag of truce for its surrender of the Fort and each time received a decided “NEVER!” from
the commander. A transport soon came up the river, took us on board and crossed over to the assistance of those in
the fort, in crossing we were in great danger of being sunk by the enemy, but landed in safety in about one hour.
There had troops enough crossed to give them
[page 46]
battle. The enemy immediately withdrew but were followed by us about fifteen miles, capturing to pcs. of artillery
and a few prisoners. Night coming on we encamped. We learned from the prisoners taken that the Brigade we
were following was our old enemy (Genl. Pettigrew) who we had charged our artillery at Goldsboro,
who we had often heard said, “He would follow our Brigade to H___l, but that he would use them up, this was on
the anniversary of the capture of New Bern, and they had made a grand effort to take it back.
March 15th
Returned to Fort Anderson on the Neuse, and here learned that the Rebel Genl. Picket had made an attack on the opposite
side of New Bern the day before and had also been defeated.
March 16th
Moved back to our old quarters across the river.
April 7th
On the evening of this day we crossed over to
[page 47]
Fort Anderson, and there formed an expedition for “Little Washington”, a village 30 miles from new Bern,
and situated on the banks of the Tar River where Genl Foster was hemmed in by the Rebels.
April 8th
Started on our march with fifteen Regts. of Infantry, 2 Batteries and one Regt. of cavalry, all under command
of Brigadier Genl. Spinola ( a New York City Rowdy and Politician) he at that time had never had command in
any battle, and it was plain to see that no one had nay confidence in him. We marched to “Blount Mills”
and there had a lively skirmish, and several of our Brigade were wounded, the enemy retreated across a creek
and we expected to follow, but General Spinola thought otherwise and ordered a retreat; we marched back about
9 miles in two hours, so much for Spinola.
April 9th
Once more across the country to New Bern on a different road, and through turpentine farms.
[page 48]
.The enemy reported close in our rear, but hinder the men from running to every house and barn for chickens,
in spite Spinola orders to keep in ranks, every man and officer took pains that he should fully understand their
opinion of this general slip and it is my belief he had rather been almost any where than with the old Brigade that
day. Marched nearly 30 miles and encamped late in the evening.
April 10th
Arrived in New Bern.
April 18th
We again started on the same mission with our Brigade (Genl H. W. Wessells) in command, arriving at “Blounts Mills”,
found the enemy had abandoned this position, here encamped for the night.
April 19th
Captured a few prisoners and encamped at night near the besieged town.
April 20th
On our approach the enemy retreated beyond
[page 49]
the town, we found the soldiers with Genl. Foster without food, and many of the citizens and Negroes,
suffering for want of the same. I found this to be a very beautiful town and being so far from any other village.
It seemed like an oasis in the desert. We remained here until the 26th and then returned to New Bern by boats.
May 5th
Left New Bern on steamer boats down the Neuse, up the Pamlico Sound, Albemarle Sound, and Roanoke River
to Plymouth, N.C. where we arrived on the 6th.
May 6th
This place was taken by Genl Burnside early in the war. It was then a very pretty town, but the Rebels
made a dash into the place Dec. 10, 1862 and burned all the finest buildings. It is situated 9 miles from the mouth
of the Roanoke River and is one of the best (worst) places for fever and ague I have ever found.
I am told it was once the most pleasant town in the state, if so, then like Babylon, its glory and beauty have faded.
[page 50]
[page 51]
then ceased with the exception of sending there one every 15 min. all night. Went into the town in the morning—but
no enemy.
July 7th
Returned to Plymouth.
July 26th
Marched to Gardner’s Bridge and had a skirmish.
July 27th
We had a skirmish near Foster Mills, we gave the grain in the mills to some poor whites and “darkies,” burnt the mills
and returned to Plymouth. Heavy showers and plenty of them.
August
We spent most of the time in having “the ague” for which we took quinine and whiskey, sometimes whiskey and quinine,
but no difference, the “ague” all the same. During this month and Sept. and October, our whole Brigade was reported
unfit for duty in the field, nearly every man had the ague, and many of our soldiers died, (several small detachments
were sent out while here but never made any note of it as something of importance was done.)
[page 52]
December 6th
I with my Co. was detached from the Regt. and started down the river to Roanoke Island in the Albemarle Sound.
80 miles from Plymouth where we landed on the same evening. Here from the north side of the island we had a
different sea breeze which soon began to tell in our looks and strength, it was a “paradise found,” to us after
staying so long in the swampy country around Plymouth.
December 7th
Lt. R.M. Whitney with one half its Co. worked to garrison Fort Foster on the south of Roanoke while I with
the remainder fitted a large building for the men as winter quarters.
December 10th
I learned from a scout that a Co. of Guerrillas were at Hertford, took a transport steamer and arrived there
before day light next morning, we had with us 75 men.
[page 53]
December 11th
Landed early in the morning just below the town, entered and captured 4 men, we were burning the town when we see
four companys of rebels coming toward the town. Formed our line across the street and waited their approach,
at the same time signaling to the steamer to fire with shell (there was but one small 12 pin on the boat) the mate was the only
person on the boat and knew nothing about firing the gun. He however fired a shell and it came so low that it just
barely passed over our heads. The Rebels halted and fired, wounding two of my men in the leg, we returned to find
when we began to get scattering shots from the upper windows of the houses, and on of my men fell mortally wounded
from one of those shots. The Rebels were driving us steadily
[page 54]
toward the river when the gun from the steamer threw a shell right into the rebel ranks. They retreated a short
distance when we had just time to get young Wickes, who had fallen in the second round and lay in the street between
our Co. and the Rebels. We retreated down the banks to the river where we had shelter and gave the Rebels one more
round as they approached, on seeing the steamer, the enemy immediately retreated, thinking no doubt it was a “gun boat”.
Had they have known there was but one small gun on board, they would probably acted differently. We immediately
went o board and steamed down the river. On arriving in the Sound, we took on board a man who was in a sail boat,
said he and two other men had a small steam tug, captured the day before up on the “Big Alligator” River, that when captured
he
[page 55]
had a barge in tow loaded with 2,000 bushels of corn, we then proceeded up the “Big Alligator” River, about 10 ½ p.m.
we over heard an old man and boy in a skiff, loaded with shelled corn, they were taken on board and compelled to
tell where the barge was. It was not deemed safe to proceed further that night and we came to anchor in the middle
of the river until day light.
December 12th
Moved up the river about 10 miles, came to anchor and send some men a short distance up a creek which emptied in
to the river, found the barge which was brought out into the river and taken in tow by the steamer. About 1500 bushels
yet remained in the barge.
December 13th
Returned to Roanoke.
[page 56]
Roanoke Island is about 12 miles long and will average about 2 miles wide, is a very sandy tract of land but
contains a few good plantations. It contained at this time about 300 inhabitants, most of who were without any
education and lived principally by fishing. There were a great people for dancing and wine drinking. The latter was made from the
native grapes called by them the Scuppernong Grapes which were to be found here in great abundance. It was on this island
that “Sir Walter Raleigh landed intending to establish a colony, history I believe records that they remained on this island one
year and then returned to England. I one day visited a spot on this island where could still be seen the outlines
of an earlier fort, said to have been erected by Raleigh to protect them from the Indians. During this winter we
had but little to do, we went on several small expeditions, some times captured a few Guerrillas, but I kept no
record of what was done. On Feb. and March I had the “ague” again very badly. Sometimes with fever would be crazy.
[page 57]
April 20th, 1864
A boat came down from Plymouth and informed us the “Rebel Ram” Albemarle had come down the Roanoke River and
cut off our Brigade and the remaining 9 companies of our Regt. in the afternoon. Another came loaded with men,
women, and children, refugees from Plymouth and informed us there were also having a desperate fight with two
divisions of Rebels on the west side.
April 24th, 1864
Plymouth was again captured by the Rebels and our Brigade, all prisoners and our Co. was all that then remained
of the 85 Regt. During the summer several attempts were made to remove the blockade in the mouth of the river
and retake the town which however was not accomplished until the Ram was sunk by Lt. Cushing. In December,
my Co. and three other Co’s. of Infantry proceeded on board the gun boat, Shamrock
[page 58]
up the “Little River” which empties into the Albemarle Sound at its head, and a few miles to the right of the
Roanoke. We were accompanied by five other gun boats, the river was very narrow, just wide enough to admit the
boats but very deep, this was not supposed navigable. The Rebels they were not looking for a movement of this kind,
several miles above Plymouth, we came in to the Roanoke River, as soon as all the boats were in readiness,
we pushed down the river to Plymouth. As each boat neared the town they fired a broadside into the town.
It took the Rebels by surprise, and they could be seen flying from the town in any direction. The town was recaptured
with out its loss of a man on our side. On entering the town every building was found to be riddled with shot from our boats,
about 1200 other troops were sent us and we remained and garrisoned the town.
[page 59]
January 1st, 1865
An expedition of about 1500 men were organized to go to Rain Bow Bluff, about 40 miles up the river,
to capture a fort at that place and to destroy another Rebel _______, said to be building there. We marched about
15 miles and waited for the gun boats to come up the river, about 5 p.m the boats passed on up the river and we
again proceeded on our march. The night was quite cold, but clear, about 8 p.m. we came on to a small squad of Rebel rickets,
these the cavalry charged and we passed on, about once every half hour from this time till 8 a.m. we would find Rebel pickets,
which would halt our column just long enough to scatter them to the woods, and while this was going on the men
not interested at the front would take this opportunity to visit the
[page 60]
the chicken roosts and meat house along the road, and it was hard to tell which made the most noise,
chickens or pickets. Just before day light we met with more resistance and halted, formed our lines,
no enemy appeared in our front, two Regts. were there sent from to right of our lines to make a flank movement,
when a short distance from us on a crossroad, they came upon a Battalion of Rebel Infantry. It was still quite dark
and they supposed we were some of the troops from the Bluff, coming to their support, when they found their mistake
they surrendered without firing a gun. There were with this Battalion of the enemy, one colonel, one major,
and one surgeon captured, the other officers
[page 61]
escaped us. A strong picket force was there but at the front, rear, and on each side of us, this formed a complete
hollow square, we could not tell from what direction we were in most danger and thus took this precaution.
The men then made fires and cooked their chickens, the Rebel Colonel ate with us, was a very social good natured
fellow and laughed about the manner in which he had been caught. He told us how he had planned to attack us,
if his support had been sent him and had it all worked as he expected, we should have been his prisoners instead of
his being ours. The road we had come run parallel with the river but at this point the river was about 5 miles off on our right, and
[page 62]
as a large force of the enemy would soon be on hand, it was quite necessary for us to once more communicate with
the boats on the river but no signals were answered. Soon we heard loud cannoning from the river, a scout
came in camp and informed the Genl. That, the gun boat, “Chickopee” had run on a torpedo and sunk and that the other
boats had been much disabled from a land battery and thus they were now leaving us and passing down the river,
“all we could do now was to retreat, or all be captured, or killed.” The column was immediately started on our
return march, we reached Jameston and there had a fight, lasting about half an hour. The gun boat White Head came down
and opened a heavy fire upon the enemy when they again retreated giving
[page 63]
us a chance to move on, an opportunity which we did not fail to impose. We reached that night a secure place near
the river that evening and encamped. The enemy made one more attempt in the morning but were shelled back by the boats.
The next day we marched back to Plymouth having accomplished nothing. Lost one gun boat sunk and three other
badly disabled. While we were here quite a number of our old Regt. escaped from prison and returned to us.
We also received about 80 new recruits, the Regt. now number about 200 men, and were divided into two Cos.
I was now placed in command of the Co. of recruits and on the evening of the 16th went on board the steamer Mussasait
and returned to Roanoke Island.
[page 64]
January 25th
We went on an expedition up the Chowan River, to capture some Rebel commissary stores said to be at Harrellsville,
we went 20 miles up the river by steamer and then marched 9 miles to the town. Near the town we surprised a Co. of Rebel Cavalry
(the cavalry were in a thick pine grove) while they were at dinner, we charged them from their camp, they not firing a shot,
captured six of their men, then moved into the town we captured 80 bales of cotton, a large number of houses, 35 horses and mules,
we had with us less than 200 men, and it became necessary we should leave as soon as possible as a larger body of the enemy
might soon be upon us. We started on our return to the river about dart. Lt. R.M. Whitney was commanding the advance
guard (or Co.) beyond the train and I the rear, about 9 p.m. we found a Co., of the enemy was following us. The
[page 65]
column was halted and I faced my Co. to the rear in a line across the road, sent a Sergt. With 5 men a few rods
in advance and to the left in the field, the same on the right, ordered the men to sit down in line across the road and
keep quite. The Rebel Co. came down within ten rods of us and as it was quite dark could not see us.
The Sergt. with the men on the left in front, commanded them to halt, at the same time his five men fired, a scattering fire
was retuned up the enemy, I then see them quite plain, I gave the order Fire! Every man fired and retreated back down
the road knocking me down as they did so, I soon had them all right again but the enemy had fled.
(my men were all recruits and had never been under fire before). When I first formed my line and was waiting for the enemy I gave my horse to a young boy
[page 66]
of the Co. to hold, I told him to keep with the train, out of danger, but the first shots fired he let the horse go
and returned to me and almost immediately received a rifle ball through his thigh from the effects of which he died
one week after. He was the only one who received any wound. I had become much attached to him and regretted the death
of this boy friend very much. I afterwards learned that, we killed five of the enemy but I did not know that evening if
we killed any.
January 26th
Shipped our captured property on transports and returned to Roanoke Island.
February 15th
We made an expedition up the Chowan River, this time after men who had enlisted in the Union Army
[page 67]
had gone home on furlough and could not return on account of the Guerrillas. A few miles up the river we found
and took on board two men at Swan Landing, I took 15 men and searched on the right bank. Lt. Whitney with about
the same number searched on the other side. I had about 4 miles march back in the county then 12 miles up the river,
where the boat was to anchor. Next morning I went by direction of a guide who came with us, just before dark,
found 4 more men, then proceeded to a house owned by a man who belonged to the Guerrillas, had also a son, with them,
on arriving at the house, found several ladies there visiting. They were strong, they did not care about seeing us.
They however consented to get supper for the men we had picked up
[page 68]
When supper was about half ready, I heard several guns fired some distance away. I called the men in line and
started to find the cause, as we passed out of the yard, one of the woman came out and said, “Oh, our men is coming!
You’ll get it now!” I thought something of the kind myself, but said nothing, resolved that if not driven back to the river,
I would surely come back and stay to Tea. I found it to be some of the sailors from the boat firing signals to find us.
Came back, none of the women said a word, had supper ready when we arrived. All who wished eat supper, and paid for it,
which changed the looks of the ladies very much, as they had not expected that. The man’s son came in to the yard on horseback, past
[page 69]
past as we were leaving, had not seen us and surrendered himself and horse to us. I encamped one mile from
this house at a place called “the Trap” next morning we proceeded up the river, and found in all 16 men.
Arrived at the Landing in safety and retuned to Roanoke Island.
February 20th
I was appointed Adjutant 85th Regt.
February 26th
Started with the Regt. for New Bern on board the steamer “Rockland”, and arrived then on the evening of 28th
here we joined the 23rd Army Corps under Genl. Schofield, who was organizing his corps to meet Genl. Sherman.
March 6th
We started once more towards Goldsboro over the same road we had taken with Genl. Foster in 1863.
Encamped to nights 16 miles from New Bern near the railroad.
[page 70]
March 7th
Marched to day to our old battle field near Kinston, a division was already there in advance of us, they had a
little fighting in the morning, but were now engaged in throwing up breastworks. The men had just had time to get
dinner when the Regt. and a battalion of a Mass. Regt. were ordered to the front. Two Pcs. of artillery had been left in the
morning by the troops engaged in the fight, these were about one mile in advance on the road towards Kinston,
after going a short distance we could see the guns we were after in the road, the Mass. Battalion, marched in the woods
on the left of the road and we on the right, we soon observed a few Rebel skirmishes in front of us, they immediately retreated. Our line was then
[page 71]
I heard our Regimental commander call my name—I knew well what was to be done, he said “Take a line of skirmishes
and see what is in our front!” I thought of what I told the recruits that night near Harrellsville, --now the time had
come and I would try them again. I formed them in skirmish line and advanced…we soon met the Rebel skirmishers
and my men acted well, we passed a lively fire for some minutes, where I observed a large body of the enemy passing
around to the right of us, I could also tell by the firing from the Massachusetts battalion that the enemy were
driving them back. I ordered my front line to retreat back then a proper distance, load and wait until the other
lines fired and retreated in this manner. I retreated back to the Regt.
[page 72]
. I formed my men on the right flank of the Regt. and by that time a whole rebel division was in our front,
we made a desperate resistance, but to no avail, our small force could do nothing against so great an odds,
the enemy were fast closing around us, when the order “Save yourselves if you can!” was given, it was every man for himself,
the rifle balls were cutting limbs from the trees and bushes around our heads at every step. We reached the
breastworks where the main force was stationed and that was all, “they cheered us as we came in and Genl. Carter,
said “you done well to get back, when I heard the firing I did not expect to see you return.”
Our men were then placed along the works in side. We had hardly time to get rested when the enemy attacked out works, on the
[page 73]
right, left, and centre, they charged over works in the most determined manner, but were each time repulsed once
they came very near breaking through our works in the rear where they were not yet completed.
After about two hours the enemy withdrew, the men were then engaged until dark in strengthening the works.
In this days fight there were seventeen men in the Regt. wounded, but most of them received wounds while on the skirmish line in the woods.
Rained all night, and as we were without shelter, we were wet through, cold and wearied out.
March 8th
Little was done today, except picket firings, received more reenforcements from New Bern.
March 9th
They made an attack this morning and were repulsed with heavy loss. In the afternoon the enemy were reported
to be retreating across the river in Kinston.
[page 74]
March 11th
We advanced to Kinston and met with on opposition.. Marched just beyond the town and encamped where we did in 1863.
March 13th
I went back to New Bern by Rail Road on business for Brigade Hd. Qtrs.
March 16th
Returned to Kinston
March 18th
We marched to Goldsboro, had a little skirmish near the town, in the evening we could hear
Genl. Sherman’s Army fighting far away to the south. Afterwards ascertained that the firing we heard was
his fight with Johnston 18 miles from Goldsboro.
This ended our fighting in the great Rebelion, Genl Sherman Army soon arrived, and then after
a short rest for his army, passed on to Raleigh, and my Regt. returned to
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“Mosley Hall,” a small station on the Rail Road between Kinston and Goldsboro.
I was there appointed Post Adjutant and severed in that capacity until June when we were ordered to New Bern.
I was then assigned to the command of Co. C and mustered that Co. out of the service..
‘thus ends my diary of the war, and in writing this over again, how it carried me back in thought to those old days of army life, of the hardships endured, the many true friends I formed who helped
to make that rough life a happy one, but alas: many of them are gone now,
they are sleeping in their quiet graves down there---but not forgotten.”
M
Transcribed by: Joyce Hicks
http://cdm17353.contentdm.oclc.org/cdm/ref/collection/civil/id/26048 |