Miles C. Littlefield Diary, 1864

Friday, January 1, 1864.

Last night it very hard did rain

And Ira went after the doctor

While I with others did sit up

With our comrad Richard Barker

The doctor came & examined Dick

Decided at once he was very sick

I am dreaming sadly dreaming

Of the loved ones far away

Gloomy thoughts do crowd upon me

And my heart is sad to day

Fancy's chain is thrown about me

And i'm thinking of the time

When I left that dear old homestead

For a distant Southern clime

When my white haired aged Father

With a tear drop in his eye

Took my hand and gently whispered

God be with thee boy—Good bye

When my kind & gentle mother

Pressed one kiss upon my cheek

And with longing eyes gazed on me

With a heart too full to speak

Saturday, January 2, 1864.

Dick gets no better very fast

We've telegraphed to his folks

He'l soon get help or breathe his last

For small pox soon is past all hopes James Potter's sick & I believe

That he has got the heart disease

With a look of grief & anguish

Upward turned her eyes so mild

Breathed to heaven a mute petition

For a blessing on her child

But the last fond tie was severed

And I quickly went my way

For the bugle horn was sounding

And its call knew no delay

But oft other thoughts come o'er me

Of a maiden young & fair

With a brow of sunny whiteness

Shaded by soft auburn hair

Who upon one moonlight evening

Then so kind & modestly

When the moon was shining brightly

Promised to be true to me

Sunday, January 3, 1864.

As another Sabbath has come & gone Another inspection too

To Brother Eddis & the rest at home

I'll write a line or two

Informing him with all the rest

That with good health we all are blest

Words of hope & love she whispered

Bade me by my country stand

Ne'er to let the land of freedom

Be despoiled by traitorous hand

I am dreaming sadly dreaming

As I'm sitting here alone

And my heart doth yearn for comfort

For the dear loved ones at home

When clouds arise & hide from view

The sun's effulgent rays

And pattering rains the earth bedew

And cheerless are our ways

It then tis sweet to feel within

A throb that knows no smart

Dispelling sorrow that would dim

The sunshine of the heart

Monday, January 4, 1864.

To day for the first it snows quite hard

And i'm glad to see it come

For my job to night is picket guard

And i'll bet we'll have some fun

I, Pardon, Jack & Erwin E^[?]

In our stockade shanty will have a space

Sweet rosy youth bedecked around

With hope's fair budding flowers

And joyous smiles profuse abound

In those delightful hours

But soon they're gone & sombre age

Reviews each fading part

And gleams from memory's golden page

The sunshine of the heart

Then seek to crown declining life

With gems from virtues light

Accept the toil & join the strife

And battle for the right

Then ripened years & sweet content

Sweet halo will impart

And [?] gild our monument

With sunshine of the heart

Tuesday, January 5, 1864.

The storm abated during the night

This morning the clouds dispersed

The earth & trees oerlaid with white

And all things seem reversed

Inspection is o'er, I'm relieved at last

To slumber & dream oer what is past

Hope like an angel from the skies

Speaks in hallowed voice

Her flowery path we love to tread

And oer their scenes rejoice

When the waves upon life's sea

Roll high & spread alarm

Tis hope that like a saviour bids

The angry waves be calm

How throbs the heart in childhoods day

With hopes effulgent beams

How when these early days are gone

They seem like sweetest dreams

Oh hope thou art our blessed guide

On thee we all rely

To lead us through these chequred

scenes

To cheer us till we die

Wednesday, January 6, 1864.

Although 'tis pleasant mild & fair

There still remains a chilly air

We have no drill nor parade to bother

So i'll write a letter to my brother

And then i'll study for to night

I have a lesson to recite

If I possessed the jewels rare

That flash in bright array

On kingly crowns & queenly forms

Upon their bridal day

If I could claim the richest gems

That earth holds in her mine

I'd freely—freely give them all

For one sweet smile of thine

And if proud glory with her wreath

Could stoop to deck my brow

Or if the dreams ambition prompts

Could be all real now

If these depended on a word

A single word from me

Oh i'd not speak of it if I thought

I'd lose one smile from thee

Thursday, January 7, 1864.

Another pleasant day is past

We've had no parade or drill

And again the darkness doth oercast

The valley and the hill

And both Manford & Milan to me did

write

A letter which I rec^d to night

If I could own a magic wand

A fairy offering

And if to me the wealth of worlds

Its mystic touch would bring

Forsaken it might be for years

By these meek hands of mine

If well I knew that by its touch

I'd lose one smile of thine

Friday, January 8, 1864.

Fair as usual

We drill &c S. Boyce started for home this morning we recite a lesson to night &c

I asked a curly-headed child

With rosy cheeks & soft blue eyes

For what 'twas waiting & with mild

And silvery tones it made reply

Waiting till the fragrant flowers

And the gay sweet singing birds

Fill old natures blooming bowers

With perfume & warbling words

Till the summer sunlight glances

Over yonder distant hills

Then i'll join the woodland dances

Over meadows rocks & rills

The summer came and the heart of

children

Danced with joy at the prospect fair

And light feet threaded the merry

wildwood

Happy as birds in the morning air

Saturday, January 9, 1864.

I asked a youth with lofty brow

The same i'd seen in years gone by

What he was waiting for and now

In stronger tones he made reply

Waiting till my childhood changes

Into manhood & riper years

And my chainless spirit ranges

Uncontrolled by childish fears

Till I break these fretting fetters

And secure myself a name

Writing it in living letters

On the pinnacle of fame

The years of youth at length had

vanished

Manhood with all its cares came on

The fetters & childish fears were

banished

The boy both name & fame had won

Sunday, January 10, 1864.

Still fair

we have inspection this morning as usual the chronicle this morning announces the death of George E. Sweet &c

I asked a man whose lips foretold

The autumn of his life was nigh

What's he waiting for—and cold

And sad—he made reply

Waiting till the somber shadows

Of old age shall gather round

When retired & calm the meadows

Shall to me be favorite ground

Till the little ones shall gather

Round me & with merry tongue

Tell me softly they would rather

Hear about when I was young

The autumn passed and the shadowy

winter

Of faint old age came stealing apace

And a gay group round the old man in

the center

Was telling them tales of his dear birth

place

Monday, January 11, 1864.

Pleasant to day Corp^l Abbott & myself went to fort Grebble on a pass—also went to the cavalry camp—ft Carol ft Snider ft Stanton &c

I asked of one whose silvery hairs

The driven snow could not outvie

What he was waiting for & calm

The old man made me this reply

Waiting till the dark winged angel

Shall be sent by him I love

Not a foe but an Evangel

To escort my soul above

Till the long expected message

From my blessed lord shall come

Then my glad soul shall take passage

O'er the river to its home

The message came & the weary feet

Of the dear old man no more shall roam

For over the river with joy replete

The angel of death has carried him home

Tuesday, January 12, 1864.

Pleasant to day we drill infantry to day I and Kennedy drill Kinman & M^cDilpin with knapsack for scuffling in the quarters 4 hours

Mournfully beneath the willow

In a cold & narrow bed

With the chill earth for a pillow

We have left our noble dead

Fast & thick our tears are falling

As we took our last farewell

For the lost our hearts are calling

With an anguish none can fill

Tender hands had gently borne him

From the hard fought battle field

Where our country's banner o'er him

He had forced the foe to yield

Bravely mid the deafening rattle

And the conflict's smoke & roar

He had stemed the tide of battle

Till the fray was almost o'er

Wednesday, January 13, 1864.

I am on guard everything goes finely this eve I have been writing to Milan and Uncle Ambrose answering some recd last year

We were payed off to day

There the fatal missile found him

All his dauntless soul aglow

With the signs of triumph round him

And the fast retreating foe

Braver heart than his beat never

His a patriot's dauntless zeal

Ah that loyal hearts should ever

Fall before a traitors steel

From that fatal field returning

We have lain him down to rest

But the patriot fire is burning

Brightly in each loyal breast

And we think while tears are falling

Thickly o'er that hallowed sod

We have yealded up our darling

To his country & his God

Thursday, January 14, 1864.

I was relieved from guard this morning but it was so foggy we could not see the target so we fired at a stump we commenced eating in our mess room &c

How calm the hour of closing day

The suns last momentary ray

Is resting on the hills

The birds have ceased their joyous notes

The only melody that floats

Comes murmering from the rills

Slowly retires the setting sun

His course from east to west is run

He calmly sinks to rest

His couch of crimson decked with gold

Is dazzling as our eyes behold

The billowy mountain crest

Water falling day by day

Wears the hardest rock away

Friday, January 15, 1864.

Weather rather rainy & misty I am on police to day with Sergt Lucas—

We have no parade or drill &c

Who can revoke the broken work

Or who recall the arrow sped

Can we bring back the life's thats [?]

Restore neglected moments fled

Think wisely then before you speak

Reflect ere flies the fatal dart

'Tis better far to send a [?]

Than poison to a [?] heart

Live so that no regrets shall rise

To gather round your future years

Let no neglected moments pass

To check thy flight to yonder spheres

Speak softly kindness is a flower

That comes from him [?] above

Deal gently & the [?] shall know

The healing balm the power of love

Saturday, January 16, 1864.

Still very pleasant

Corp^l ~~Abbott~~ Gleason and myself went over into Maryland to day over to the Survey camp to see Billy & the other boys Billy & Rat took us over to the widow Berry's where we stayed quite a while & visited the girls had a first rate time the boys cooked a rabit and chicken for supper had tea & coffee &c &c

had a first rate supper the boys came part way home with us

Almont came over to the fort

I recd a letter from Emma & Mother

Sunday, January 17, 1864.

The weather is very pleasant we have knapsack inspection at half past nine as usual

F. M. Kilby & Eggleston went to the hospital to day

We had preaching in our mess room this forenoon by rev Mr Camp and this afternoon by the chaplain of the regt

had a prayer meeting this eve. Sergt Hurd started for home about 6^oc this PM I sent thirty dollars to father by him Sent for my flute & books

I wrote a letter to father this eve in this morning's chronicle was a notice of Rud Randalls death

Monday, January 18, 1864.

It rains very hard all day the snow is entirely melted away

I am rather unwell I have a hard cold and headache

the boys were vaccinated again to day

We have to recite to night but I shant go in

I received a letter from Henry Bull this eve

When thinking of my youthful days

And scenes replete with mirth

My mind oft wanders to that spot

Dearest to me on earth

Where waters of a crystal stream

Dashed o'er the rocks in foam

And nigh it on the greensward stood

My little cottage home

Tuesday, January 19, 1864.

Weather moderate and plenty of mud we have no drill nor parade

I feel all right today

Cha^s. M^cCumber and Wheeler were taken to the hospital with the small pox

I understand that Kilby & Ja^s. E. Potter were taken to the city hospital

O often do I think of thee

Sweet scenes of earlier days

Where I believe the glorious sun

Spent all its brightest rays

And now quite of at eventide

When by fatigue oercome

I sleep & in my visions see

My little cottage home

Wednesday, January 20, 1864.

The ground is frozen up & the day is fine Martin went to head quarters to day & left me in charge of his room I had a good time writing &c

Wrote a letter to Ira Littlefield to day we drilled on Artillery this forenoon

Col Spratt & the officers are holding a court of inquiry to day

Thursday, January 21, 1864.

Remains fine

the officers continue their court &c

We drill to day Skiner Boyce returned from home we recite this eve

Nothing of importance turns up

Friday, January 22, 1864.

Pleasant as usual. we drill to day

I rec'd a letter from Manford and Milan this eve Nelson Smith went to the hospital to day

Saturday, January 23, 1864.

We drill this AM Artillery do nothing the afternoon

we recite this eve

Sunday, January 24, 1864.

Still beautiful weather

I am detailed for picket guard we have two sermons to day the Capt preached this forenoon and another man this afternoon all seem to think that Capt done the best

Monday, January 25, 1864.

I am relieved from guard &c had a very pleasant time on picket a squad of darkies came along about five^oc this AM Started night before last

Amos Lane started for home this morning. I dont feel very well this afternoon in consequence of my vaccination My arm & side are very painful so that I excuse myself from parade

I wrote a letter to Manford this afternoon &c

Tuesday, January 26, 1864.

It makes out to be a fine day

I report to the sick call & am taken up Henry Green went to the hospital with the small pox

parade &c as usual

oh I forgot we emptied our ticks & washed them to day

Benton done my washington &c &c

Wednesday, January 27, 1864.

Still pleasant

the company drill as usual but no drill for me I feel a little above that to day

D. V. Barney died last night with homesickness &c

have parade as usual the band were over here and played for us & to get John Carpenter to go & play in the band Capt says he cant go

the Col says he will when he sends for him &c

Thursday, January 28, 1864.

Pleasant & warm enough to make a fellow sweat sitting still. the company drill as usual

I feel pretty hard up vaccination working in both arms which was so painful last night almost make me crazy could'nt sleep a wink

they took up a subscription to day to embalm & send D. V. Barney home I p^d /50^cts Kilby & Eggleston came from the hospital to day Green sent word to have me write home for him I recd a letter from father to night &c

Friday, January 29, 1864.

Still fine

I spend the most of the day in Mart's room I have written letters to father & Menzo Sr the company have drilled as usual Batt drill this p.m.

I feel some better &c

Saturday, January 30, 1864.

Rather rainy to day the boys pile wood &c

I feel about the same as usual I received a letter this eve from Marion Etta in answer to one written in December last She said D Hurd spent the afternoon of last tuesday with her

Sunday, January 31, 1864.

Fair but cloudy

the company have inspection as usual

D C Hurd returned from home this AM brought my flute to me I have used it some I reckon

I feel very comfortable to day the doctor took the scab from my arm to save &c

parade &c as usual

I sent a paper to Manford

Joseph A Wheeler died to day &c

Monday, February 1, 1864.

Rather rainy

to day they begin to have one company do the guard duty one day & then the other alternately Co G do all the guard to day. they are afraid of taking the small pox of our boys by being together our co do nothing no drill nor parade

The melody of summer waves

The thrilling notes of birds

Can never be so dear to me

As her remembered words

Tuesday, February 2, 1864.

Rather rainy

no drill or parade

G^eo Abbott went to the City to day got him a fiddle &c

Sergt Wilkinson went to fort Wagoner

our Company do the guard duty to day

Tell me friend who long have cherished

Why my heart is sad & lone

Tell me truly ere I perish

That I may the fault atone

Is it thus our feelings gendered

With the gentle muse of love

That our minds have duly wandered

To etherial thoughts above

Still on earth we see reflected

In our hearts the loved one dear

Still with cupids wilds detected

Cherished love does thus appear

Wednesday, February 3, 1864.

Cool & windy

the co drill this p.m. I feel quite well got a bile on my arm

I remain on the sick list

wrote a letter to Milan &c

Can I hope by patient waiting

And devotion sacred true

That my heart be kept from breaking

By love promised friend from you

Can I know by word or action

Or by kindred feeling free

That thy love will be my portion

And you sometimes think of me

If so then in joy & gladness

Thou wilt whisper hope to me

Keeping my heart from all sadness

Thinking only love of thee

Thursday, February 4, 1864.

Lone & sad love I am sitting

Sitting while I think of thee

Visions are before me flitting

Visions that I love to see

Visions of a brilliant future

Brilliant with the prospect dear

Of my love for you requited

While good Hymen draws us near

Lone & sad love I am sitting

You perhaps may happy be

Lone & sad for thee im thinking

Oblivion shades all else but thee

Could I have the same assurance

Could my visions be but real

I no longer would be mourning

Lone & sad no longer feel

Friday, February 5, 1864.

Go I seek not to retain

Love that lives but for a day

All my care would be in vain

All my labor thrown away

You have broken every vow

Caused the bitter tears to start

Left fresh wrinkles on my brow

Trampled on my trusting heart

You have triumphed in my woe

Smiled upon my wretchedness

You have dared to treat me so

Then to proffer my caress

Though friendship was not true

Still I wish you only joy

May such friends ne'er come to you

Nor your happiness destroy

Saturday, February 6, 1864.

recd letter from Ro[?]

Let poets sing of eastern climes

And golden sunset hours

Of shady nooks

And babling brooks

Of moonlit orange bowers

Yet still to me

More sweet shall be

A joy no wealth can buy

A pair of pouting cherry lips

To kiss upon a sly

Oh let them build their lofty rhymes

As e'er so e'er they may

But give me still if you so will

Another word to say

Now here to all tall fat or small

I vow i'd rather die

Than miss the bliss that's in the kiss

When taken on the sly

Sunday, February 7, 1864.

Knapsack inspection as usual. we have preaching this forenoon & prayer meeting this eve. I wrote to Manford &c.

Remember this I love thee still

Still bear your image on my heart

Nothing that love can ever chill

And if it be that we must part

Remember this I love thee still

Stay for a moment linger yet

Live for an instant in the past

A past we never can forget

If unforgiven to the last

Remember this I love thee still

We cannot part my soul still hugs

Thy soul to mine with every thought

And if in vain it pants & tugs

To hold the casket richly wrought

Remember this I love thee still

Monday, February 8, 1864.

We drill as usual this eve I recd a letter from Menzo & wrote one to Emma C Scott we have a recitation this eve

My soul is on its knees to thine

Listen as you were wont to do

In days when I have called you mine

And love no doubts & questions knew

Remembering I love thee still

Oh thou of holy Mothers name

Like her give answer unto prayer

If I have erred let love reclaim

Drive not by hate to dread despair

Remembering I love thee still

Forgive forgive once more forgive

Spurn me not wholly from your feet

Let love return, love bid me live

And lips confess the secret sweet

They may not speak I love thee still

Tuesday, February 9, 1864.

Weather fine we raised a flag staff to day drill as usual Lt Williams goes on duty for the first Cha^s McCumber returned from the hospital brings the news that Henry Green is dead. I write to Manford & Menzo

The moments are flying away

Like so many flashes of light

And the year that is dying to day

Will leave us forever to night

And thoughtfully dreaming away

And now & then dropping a tear

While others are seeming so gay

I muse on the death of the year

How many are weeping to day

Oer the graves of the loved & the lost

Who are silently sleeping away

Where the angel of death never crossed

That last year were cheerful & gay

With nothing of care to annoy

Never dreaming a tearful today

Could follow on yesterdays joy

Wednesday, February 10, 1864.

The company drill as usual I am det for picket Corp^l Moody is on regular guard &c

I wrote a letter to D[?] this P.M. &c

There are hearts that are breaking to day

Borne down by the weight of their woe

And other hearts aching away

Still feebly resisting the blow

That throbed with unbounded delight

And hopes fresh & fair as the flowers

When the old year had sounded its flight

And the new one unfolded its hours

And thoughtfully dreaming away

I now & then furnish a tear

For those who are seeming so gay

And will fall e'er the close of the year

Oh the moments are flying away

Like so many flashes of light

And the year that is dying to day

Will leave us forever to night

Thursday, February 11, 1864.

Still pleasant

I am relieved from guard. Co drill as usual Bat drill this P.M.

N. M. Gleason reduced to the ranks for getting his pass extended

Rec letter Father & Emma

If from my native skies I roam

From all the dearest ties of home

To cross the oceans wind racked foam

Oh think not i'll forget thee

And though in other lands i'll stay

Where brighter faces meet my way

And sweetest smiles upon me play

Oh think not i'll forget thee

And if I meet with maidens fair

Whose liquid eyes & jetty hair

With thine own tresses may compare

Oh think not i'll forget thee

The rose & eglantine may bloom

Around me with their sweet perfume

And foreign suns my path illume

But think not i'll forget thee

Friday, February 12, 1864.

Remains pleasant

Co drill as usual have parade &c

Lt Russ Hall was here Lt Seaton &c

Col Spratt & Maj's Abel & Campbell were here to day to examine the Sergts at this post as has been done throughout the regt for promotion

Cha^s. A. Ripley died yesterday morning

recitation to night &c

For oh the rose that clambers oer

The trellis by the olden door

Where moonlight dances as of yore

Is sweeter far to me

And the dear face of her I love

Will rise in beauty far above

All other forms where e'er I rove

Then think not i'll forget thee

Saturday, February 13, 1864.

Yet beautiful

drill this forenoon

Lieutenants Cook & Johnson visited us to day

Sunday, February 14, 1864.

Fair but rather windy. we have guard mount at 7^oc this morn. Start for Head quarters at 8½^oc for a Batt drill & review. Our Co were the left on account of Capt Kitts resignation which took place some time ago

the Colors were produced with due solemnity Capt Cleghorn took charge of our Co but manoevered them very poorly Lt Williams brought us back Gleason played in the band &c

Albert Nutting returned from home. Seth Penney & Fred Joiner put in the guard house for leaving camp without a pass

Monday, February 15, 1864.

Somewhat cooler

drill this forenoon Snows this afternoon

no parade

We recite this eve

Tuesday, February 16, 1864.

Somewhat cold no drill to day

I have charge of the company clean the snow off the parade ground &c

parade as usual

I recd a letter from Sophia [?]

Wednesday, February 17, 1864.

Quite cold & windy

we have no drill fill our ticks with straw &c

I sent a line for Ahurn to Major Foster by Sergt Lucas

W^m Owen & Rat Penney are over to day have no parade

have a recitation &c

we had our monthly inspection in the quarters by M.A.Reed

Thursday, February 18, 1864.

Remains rather cold. we drill this A.M. Arty drill &c this P.M. Batt drill

I rec^d this eve letters from Milan Manford A M Bullock & Wallace & wife who sent me their photographs &c

Friday, February 19, 1864.

Pleasant but quite cool. Martin and I have been to the City we visited the Smithsonian Institute the Presidents home the Soldiers library the house of Representatives the Senate Chamber & other places of interest heard some very smart speeches &c I done sundry errands for the boys.

we got some books at the Soldiers library to read &c. have a recitation this eve I bought a photograph of President & wife

Saturday, February 20, 1864.

Very pleasant and mild

I am on guard Sergt Wilkinson & Corpl Maitland &c the Co drill this AM parade as usual I wrote a letter to Calvin Littlefield this eve & spend my leisure hours in reading the Pilgrims Progress &c

Sunday, February 21, 1864.

We had a beautiful night last night & pleasant this morn

I am relieved from guard after inspection. have preaching this A.M. I dont go for I have to clean my gun the guard is detailed from both companies this morn

Monday, February 22, 1864.

Still pleasant

we drill as usual

I wrote letters to Corpl A.M.Bullock and Manford

have parade as usual

recitation this eve

Tuesday, February 23, 1864.

Remains mild

we have our usual drill. bayonet exercise this P.M.

parade as usual

Wednesday, February 24, 1864.

Pleasant

It rained some last night

drill to day

W^m Owen A. J. Sprague & E. S. Penney returned to the company having got through surveying

I wrote a letter this P.M. to Milan

parade as usual

recitation this eve

Thursday, February 25, 1864.

Pleasant &c

drill to day as usual

to day four of our Barbette guns were taken away

I had charge of the working squad

dress parade &c

Friday, February 26, 1864.

Remains fair

drill of course

parade &c

four recruits came to day, W. Dingman, Randall, Robinson & Simpson

I recd a letter this eve from T Putnam

I wrote to Marion Etta Swan

Saturday, February 27, 1864.

We drill this A.M.

Clears up this P.M.

parade as usual

Sunday, February 28, 1864.

Still pleasant

I am on guard with Sergt Randall

everything runs magnificently

we have two sermons to day Ira is unwell he got a telegraph despach this that his sister Electa was not expected to live. the Capt promised him a furlough Wednesday I wrote to H. P. Stacy and Edwin D Lee

had parade as usual

Monday, February 29, 1864.

Mild warm & cloudy. I am relieved from guard have no inspection

Tuesday, March 1, 1864.

Weather unchangable except a little misty

have no drill or parade

I wrote to S. E. Johnson a note of which I kept a copy &c

Wednesday, March 2, 1864.

Weather unchangable

drill & parade

three recruits came this eve Fink Fay & Allen

[?] is from Staten Island, the other two from New York City

Thursday, March 3, 1864.

Remains fair

We drill as usual except I drill the recruits they work in pretty good parade &c

I recd a letter from Manford

Friday, March 4, 1864.

Very pleasant & the Co drill as usual

I drill the recruits and have charge of the working party have parade &c

I recd a letter from C. Littlefield

we have a recitation this eve I sent a paper to Manford &c

Saturday, March 5, 1864.

Rainy and muddy

I am on Corpl of guard with Sergt Wilkinson Rolier Officer of the day

it stopped raining this P.M. the Co have no drill but had parade the Sergt runs the guard the forepart of the night & I the latter and during this time I wrote a letter to Nate Brown the Countersign is Bunker Hill &c

oh the boys whitewashed the mess room inside A. L. James died last night with typhoid fever S. J. James was here to day the boys took up subscription to send A.L.J. home Ira started home at 4^oc this AM

Sunday, March 6, 1864.

Pleasant

I am relieved from guard &c the boys have inspection as usual

have preaching this P.M. parade

I recd a letter this from Reuben Leffingwell

Monday, March 7, 1864.

Remains fair

We drill as usual

Batt drill this PM

have parade &c

have recitation this eve. Cha^s A Potter & Rob^t Roach got their furloughs this eve I gave or delivered the the things belonging to Henry J Green to RC Church to send them home by him I sold his bed quilt pillow & army blanket to Emmet Armstrong for one dollar

Tuesday, March 8, 1864.

Rainy all day

have no drill or parade Cha^s A Potter & Rob^t Roach started for home this morning

I sold those things to G^eo H Maynard instead of Armstrong for $2.00

I wrote letters to Mr R Leffingwell & W^m H. H. Taylor

Wednesday, March 9, 1864.

Very pleasant

we have drill as usual. Batt this P.M.

read a letter from Corpl A.M. Bullock have recitation as usual

Thursday, March 10, 1864.

it is very rainy

I am detailed for guard on picket have S Boyce and Cha^s Brown & A.M. Brown We have no drill or parade

I wrote letters this afternoon to Brother Edwin & Cousin Wallace & Elida

Corpl R.C. Church started for home.

Friday, March 11, 1864.

Rainy somewhat

I am relieved from guard Lt Jones officer of the day

Saturday, March 12, 1864.

Rather pleasant

drill this A.M.

no recitation as expected

Sunday, March 13, 1864.

Still fair

have no preaching but expected a sermon

I wrote a letter to Brother Milan this eve

Monday, March 14, 1864.

We drill as usual

Batt this afternoon

we had recitation

Lt Montague heard us we just took to part 5^th Vol 2^nd

Tuesday, March 15, 1864.

It snowed a little this afternoon

we had brigade inspection in the quarters by M A Reed. drilled this forenoon

Two more recruits came to day names W^m E Taylor & W^m H Hall had parade &c

I had a lawsuit this eve with Chas Coburn I employed C Ahurn as Counselor & W^m Stratton counsel on the opposite side it was held in my room B C Seaton was justice H Moody H P Taylor S Boyce & H Newell went off lively & decided in my favor Coburn to pay the apples &c

I recd a letter this eve photograph from Marion Etta

Wednesday, March 16, 1864.

Still pleasant

drill as usual

we were instructed this afternoon by Col Hardee Maj Arden &c

A Lady visited Capt Cleghorn W^m Owen is Capt & orderly to day

Thursday, March 17, 1864.

Still pleasant

I am on guard Sergt E S Eggleston Ira Kemp returned this morning

the company drill as usual parade orders on parade that those who had been at two years sea service could be transfered into the Navy

I recd letters from Father & Cousin Emma & wrote this eve to father & H.C. Bull

the countersign is New Haven

Friday, March 18, 1864.

Remains fair

We drill as usual

parade &c

Cha^s A. Potter & Robt Roach returned from home

I recd a letter from S. E. Johnson

Saturday, March 19, 1864.

Pleasant &c

We drill this AM

the flag got caught on the vase and we had to take the pole down to get it off

Corpl R. C. Church returned &c

F Roberts A Randall & Allen went to Bladensburg got tight & were put in the guard house for it &c

Sunday, March 20, 1864.

Still pleasant

we have inspection as usual & parade We boys spend most of the day in playing different specimens of music

Monday, March 21, 1864.

Weather fair

Battallion drill this afternoon parade as usual recitation this eve

Barney Kilby Allen & Abbott myself have been playing most all day

Tuesday, March 22, 1864.

Rather cold and chilly. we have been practicing target shooting with Barbette & (12) pdr I made the four best shots with light pieces no parade

it snows this eve

Wednesday, March 23, 1864.

We have about 8 inches of snow this morning it is pleasant to day & eve make some scrapers & scrape the snow off the parade ground & out the fort &c

Cha^s Coburn C. M^cCumber & A Sturtevant started home

Thursday, March 24, 1864.

Pleasant &c we drill as usual

I am detailed to go on picket to night in Corpl Tifft's place recd a letter this eve from Milan & Edwin

Snow nearly all gone

Capt Cleghorn started for home

Friday, March 25, 1864.

Weather fair

we have target practice to day

parade &c as usual. I wrote to father &c

Saturday, March 26, 1864.

Weather unpleasant

we recd marching orders about midnight packed up & started at 10 AM Joined the rest of the regt at the Navy yard bridge crossed through Washington & over into Virginia when we got across the bridge halted to rest about ½ hour went on about 3 miles halted about 15 min to

Some fell out by the way

we got to the Soldiers rest in Alexandria at 5^oc got some bread & coffee & stayed all night. felt pretty near whiped

Sunday, March 27, 1864.

Got some bread raw pork & coffee & started at sunrise got to Head quarters Fort Lyon at 9^oc our Co & Co's B & H go to fort Willard we relieve the 15^th N.Y. Arty who start to join Meades army the 9^th N.Y. relieved us. well our Co takes the new quarters which are unfinished

a guard of 15 & picket of 9 detailed &c. we found two stoves & put up &c two recruits Fillmore & Lamfere came this P.M.

I wrote to the boys this eve. we have coffee for dinner & no supper Sleep on the floor &c

Thursday, March 31, 1864.

Pleasant but rather cool. the company drill. I have charge of the fatigue party this afternoon

we have had nothing but tea & bread since we came here & precious little of that

I recd a letter from W^m H. H. Taylor this eve

Friday, April 1, 1864.

Rather stormy

I am detailed for guard (2^nd relief) goes off pleasantly the co have no drill. have no parade since we have been here the artificers work making bunks

I recd a letter from Milan stating he is unwell & Joel is very sick

Aunt Cindy is dead R & LB gone to Mexico &c

Saturday, April 2, 1864.

The weather has been very rainy all day I was relieved from guard had insp. in quarters E. S. Penney W^m Owen & one from Co B arrested for coming up from picket to early, but the Maj after hearing their reasons released them saying they deserved no censure

Cha^s M^cCumber & Corpl Coburn returned from home. M^c brought a trunk & left it at Washington. S Boyce A.J. Sprague & T.L. Jeffers started for the Navy this morning. I wrote a letter to Milan &c

Sunday, April 3, 1864.

Weather rather fair

have knapsack inspection & parade

We were suspicious of a raid & went out blockaded the road this eve &c

Monday, April 4, 1864.

Rains this afternoon

drilled the recruits in the quarters &c

no other drill or parade

R E Benton started for home

Tuesday, April 5, 1864.

It has been very rainy all day

no drill or parade but I drill the recruits in the quarters

rec^d a letter from Emma & Milan stating that Joel is dead

I wrote to S. E. Johnson

Wednesday, April 6, 1864.

The weather has been fair to day. it stoped raining this A.M. W^m Owen started for home this A.M. the Capt & DCH came to day. Cha^s M^cCumber went to the city to day got that trunk to Alex

I drilled the recruits to day. I wrote a letter to Emma &c

I forgot E Penney & A G Lawrence went home

Thursday, April 7, 1864.

Weather pleasant

I drill the recruits

the Company drill as usual

no parade

Friday, April 8, 1864.

Weather pleasant

I am on guard 1^st relief have to visit my relief once in 40 minutes

Sergt J. L. Wilkinson on also

I recd a letter from S. Elida L

Cha^s M^cCumbers trunk came we got the old negro to go get it. Everything all right

Countersign Summerville

they have parade

Sergt Hall appointed Sergt Major, act

Saturday, April 9, 1864.

Begins raining just as we are relieved from guard

no drill or parade

Mart & G^eo Lucas have been to the City.

Sunday, April 10, 1864.

Clears off fair

we have an inspection of guns only

a Corpl in Co H recd a commis'n in the regt

parade at the usual hour &c

Monday, April 11, 1864.

Weather fair

we drill as usual & parade

Tuesday, April 12, 1864.

Still pleasant

drill & parade &c

Wednesday, April 13, 1864.

Weather fair

we drill this PM

we recd two months pay. I recd a check of $20 00 marked N^o 340 Washington March 29

parade as usual

Thursday, April 14, 1864.

Drill as usual

no parade

weather fair

Friday, April 15, 1864.

Weather fair

I am on guard

we had brigade insp this A.M.

I recd a letter from home

Saturday, April 16, 1864.

Begins raining this morning & rains all day no parade or drill

Ira went to Head quarters & borrowed music book. Sergt Clark has got his discharge of Co. G.

Sunday, April 17, 1864.

Rains a little

we have inspection in the quarters

W^m Owen A. Lawrence & E Penney returned

Finney & Parsons got papers to go to the free Military School at Philadelphia

I write to father & inclose a $20^00/100 check. Ira & I have warm sugar for super &c

Monday, April 18, 1864.

Drilling Ball playing parade &c as usual

Lieut Ward promoted to 1^st Lt & assigned to Co B &c

Tuesday, April 19, 1864.

Day is fair

drill as usual

Kilby fixed my boots costs $1.00

parade &c

Lieut Farnham who was promoted from Sergt Co M was assigned to our Co

goes on duty &c

Wednesday, April 20, 1864.

Weather pleasant

Companies drill as usual I drill the recruits this AM we have Batt drill this P.M. parade &c

We boys play ball as usual

Thursday, April 21, 1864.

Very pleasant

I am on guard

Sergt Felt Co. B.

Co drill as usual parade &c

the boys got a Bass Drum at Head quarters & G^eo. M. D. Barney plays on it

Friday, April 22, 1864.

I had a pleasant night of it last the countersign Canton

I was relieved this AM had inspection & whisky as usual. Our Co have target practice to day have parade &c

N. M. Gleason started home on a furlough this AM

Saturday, April 23, 1864.

We drill this AM as usual

do nothing this PM except parade

I recd a letter from Emma & Mother

Sunday, April 24, 1864.

We have knapsack inspection and regt review at Head quarters this forenoon

the weather is pretty warm

parade &c

I wrot to Manford

Monday, April 25, 1864.

Fine day as usual

we drill Artillery this AM and Infantry this PM

parade as usual

Tuesday, April 26, 1864.

Still Rains

Drill Infantry this AM Artillery PM

play ball as usual

Parade &c

Wednesday, April 27, 1864.

Weather fair

we had Batt drill at Head quarters this AM Arty drill as usual this PM

Gen^l Burnsides expedition moved from Alexandria to day

Serg Moulton Co B started for the Navy but was sent back papers disaproved Col Piper was here at parade &c

Thursday, April 28, 1864.

Still fair

have Battallion drill at Head quarters as usual the Capt threatened (to use his words) putting every Devil of us in the guard house &c Artillery drill this PM parade &c

I recd letters from Jas. E. Potter and H M Bull &c

Friday, April 29, 1864.

Pleasant and very warm I am on picket

have tiptop time

Saw some handsome girls. Miss Petitt Miss Snowdon, Gibbs &c. the Col and Capt Gillmore went down to Mr Cha^s Johnson on Secesh &c

A deserter was shot in Alexandria and one in Washington

the countersign is Brookfield the Parol Burnside

Saturday, April 30, 1864.

Fair day but rains a very little

Just night I am relieved from guard we were mustered for pay by Maj Abell

no parade

Sunday, May 1, 1864.

Still fair

have inspection as usual had preaching in our quarters this AM this PM I wrote a letter to Marion E.S.

Monday, May 2, 1864.

We drill as usual

it rains and blows just parade time so we have no parade

Tuesday, May 3, 1864.

Pleasant

We have Battallion drill as usual and fire [?] cartriges 12 rounds

have parade as usual

I had Sertwell's wife fix my pants over sow on the stripes &c

Wednesday, May 4, 1864.

Still pleasant

Edward Shannon died this morning

We have Batt drill this AM Col Piper taken command. I was detailed to take an escort of (8) men and report to Surgeon Copeland to escort the body of Edward Shannon to Hunting Creek Bridge

We have inspection this PM both here & at Head quarters by Gen^l Howard and Derussy

parade as usual

Thursday, May 5, 1864.

Warm and pleasant

drill as usual I wrote to W^m H H Taylor & Milan

Geo Hovey died this AM it is reported

parade &c as usual

[margin]

J. B. Gr[?] [?] show &c

Friday, May 6, 1864.

Pleasant & warm

I am on regular guard. I hear Hovey is not dead but getting better Corpl A. M. Bullock returned. I recd a letter from home. found a key inclosed. parade &c as usual

Saturday, May 7, 1864.

Still pleasant & very warm I am relieved from guard &c

Sunday, May 8, 1864.

Very warm

after inspection D. & I with Sergts Jno Gibbs and Lou Seiger got a pass & went out side the picket lines we called on Mr Gibbs folks & took dinner after visiting a while & strolling around we returned to camp well pleased with our journey

parade as usual

Monday, May 9, 1864.

Continues very warm

we went to Head quarters as usual for Batt drill

Co draw clothing as usual

I sent to Alexandria for our trunk but did not get it parade &c

Tuesday, May 10, 1864.

Rained last night a little but warm & pleasant to day

Our Co have been firing all day I made tiptop shot as did all the rest I recd a letter from Milan & Emma

Lt Montague was transfered to Co D & Lt Carter takes his place Montague & Capt could not agree &c

Wednesday, May 11, 1864.

It has been fair

I went to Head Qrs this morning & got an order of Qr Mr Flowers for Bullock trunk and it came about noon things all right except the butter which seems to be rather soft

drill as usual I put R Kilby in the guard house for staying over his pass yesterday

by order—

I wrote to Father &c

Friday, May 13, 1864.

Rains this AM

no drill

Mart recd his commish to day

I wrote to Milan

Saturday, May 14, 1864.

Weather fair &c

we have drill bayonet exercise this AM

clean the Quarters this PM

parade &c

Another Brown visited us to day. Dyer Tillman went home &c—

Sunday, May 15, 1864.

Weather pleasant &c

I am on guard (regular) have knapsack inspection this AM Some fifteen or twenty boat loads of soldiers went down the river to day and a number up the river loaded with wounded Soldiers

Co I and Co G go to Ft Williams

parade &c as usual

Arthur Brown was here to day

Monday, May 16, 1864.

Remains fair

I am relieved from guard have inspection of arms at 11^oc as usual Battallion drill this AM at Head Quarters as usual. parace &c at the usual hour Sergt Handall and I play chess this eve and of course I beat him every time

Tuesday, May 17, 1864.

Remains fair &c

We have Monthly Insp at 9^oc AM the Band were over and played and also at guard mount

We recd marching orders just after dinner consequently our Co immediately packed up and not knowing our destination we started about 2^oc came up past Head Qrts Ft Lyon where we learned we were to relieve some of the 9^th stationed at Forts Barry and Barnard. passing by Fairfax Seminary we arrived at ft Barnard at dark making a march of about 10 miles. here the Co were divided & Lts Carter and Williams took half the Co and went to fort Barry we got into the Qr about 12 at night

Wednesday, May 18, 1864.

Ft Barry Va

Weather fair &c

we enjoyed a good nights rest notwithstanding the confusion in which things were left. 6 prisoners were left here in our charge we have been very busy all day cleaning out the quarters and policing up up around them

the Sutler here is one who was here when Jack Barney was here and used board him

the Capt sent an order this PM for Corpl N. M. Gleason and myself to return for duty to ft Barnard

rains some this PM

A Co of Massachusetts troops arrived here this PM

came from ft foot

Thursday, May 19, 1864.

Arlington Hights

Ft Barnard Va &c

Gleason and I returned here yesterday I am det for guard sergt from the other co Lt Ball officer of the day (regular whiskey Bloat too)

the companies police about the quarters all day

no parade &c

Col Piper was here this afternoon

Friday, May 20, 1864.

I am relieved from guard &c no insp of arms Mart recd or to muster &c

I wrote a letter to Father

Mart didnt get mustered to day we had a parade

Saturday, May 21, 1864.

Rains a little

we have infantry drill this AM Capt Cleghorn drills the other Co we have parade and orders assigning the troops of this Brigade to the different forts the 3^d Mass Co go to ft Barry

Sunday, May 22, 1864.

Quite pleasant

we have knapsack inspection as usual 3^d Co of Mass Vol move to relieve the rest of our Co and Co B of the 166 Ohio Malitia come here

our Regt are to drill the Malitia &c

parade as usual

Monday, May 23, 1864.

Remains fair

we have Art drill this PM Inft this forenoon Carter drill the Malitia this AM. Maj Abell and Col Piper was here to day

Capt. C. drilled us this AM and when he was dressing the Co because they dressed up to far in the center he ran up drew his sword said they ought to have their heads cut off &c &c

we have Art drill this PM I and other of the nonCom officers are chief of piece of the Malitia privates gunners &c parade as usual. Mart was mustered &c

Tuesday, May 24, 1864.

Pleasant and warm

drill the same as yesterday

Mart was over here to day he reported for duty to Capt Gillmore of Co I this PM

Wednesday, May 25, 1864.

It is now June 5^th and I write on my knee while sitting under fire of the Enemy & write from memory. Well to day we drilled this forenoon recd marching orders about noon this PM we packed up turned in our scales ticks &c. Ira & I sent our trunk home we sleep without beds to night &c

it rains some to night.

Thursday, May 26, 1864.

well after giving away and selling most of our clothing blankets &c we started for fort Lyon at 6^oc AM it rained all the forenoon

we stay at ft Lyon to night with all the regt &c

Friday, May 27, 1864.

This morning we take 5 days rations and 60 rounds more of cartriges making in all 100 rounds Started for Washington at 7 went through Alexandria our Regt went on board of the Steamers Jefferson and Ocean Wave &c

the road from ft Lyon to Washington we left strewn with clothing I pulled off my pants by the road side & put on my extra pr &c

well we steamed down the river till dark & anchored

Saturday, May 28, 1864.

started early and having good luck we anchored about 30 miles up the river Rappahannock

Sunday, May 29, 1864.

We steamed up early and after going about 10 miles we ran aground on a sand bar

we have been trying all day to get off four different boats have hiched to us and one got aground trying to get us off but we got off just dark into the current and anchored. Jerome Oaks of Co B got his leg badly broken while the tug was pulling us off by the rope accidentally giving way &c

Monday, May 30, 1864.

Steamed up at 4½ & arrived at Port Royal at 11 AM. I wrote to Manford. we camped ½ mile from where we landed here we joined some 15 or 20 thousand more troops including the 2^nd & 112 Penn

one or two batterys of light artillery one regt of colored troops one of Cavalry &c &c

Tuesday, May 31, 1864.

we took breakfast at light, packed up & burned all clothing &c which we had to leave

we turned in 20 round of amunition

we got started the advance at 2^oc PM our Co & Co H with 2 Cos of the 2^nd Penn left for rear guard

we went about 5 miles & camped for the night here we burned a house at dark which we found a rebel flag in &c &c

Wednesday, June 1, 1864.

We got ready & started at 4^oc AM

we burned all the fences pine woods &c

passed old Court House crossed Mattapony creek Burned a mill passed through Bowling Green at 9^oc PM which was mostly destroyed went on 5 miles and camped

the boys suffer from marching so hard

Thursday, June 2, 1864.

As usual we started early crossed the Mattapony river at AM and filed in around the woods to wait for the pontoons and baggage train.

got to & crossed Pole Cat river at 3 PM went to Ruther Glen and camped for the night

Friday, June 3, 1864.

started off at 5 left in front marched through Reed Swamp setting fire to it camped about ½ mile from the Pamunkey R

to day the boys are getting out of hard tack and have been raiding all day. shot all the geese, turkeys, hens, pigs &c we came across. Bee hives &c suffered with the rest

Saturday, June 4, 1864.

This morning we got an early start as usual crossed the Pamunkey River this AM and filed in around the woods to await the pontoon train and baggage &c

we got to Burnsides lines this P.M. he rode along the line sent us through a swamp 1 or 2 miles farther to camp for the night which we done while the firing was going on all night in front of us ½ mile or so

we boys were nearly tired out

but slept sound

Sunday, June 5, 1864.

This AM early we drew 3 days rations and our regt & the 2^nd Penn moved about a mile the left and front

were drawn up in line of battle in front of the woods at 8^oc AM the 2^nd Penn formed the 1^st line. here Col Piper called his officers up and bid them good bye. I think he is made Brigadier Genl and assigned to another command. well we lay here till 9^oc and were retiring to the right & in rear of the woods when the rebs saw us & began to shell us one from Co K was struck through the thigh & killed (Joe Storms)

Skirmishing going on all night &c.

Monday, June 6, 1864.

All right the Rebs opened their artillery on our left about 9^oc last night and at the same time advanced in large force for the purpose of retaking a battery & flanking our left our boys let them come up as near as profitable & poured in on them both inft & Arty mowed them down fearfully. the fight lasted nearly an hour the Rebs charged twice but were handsomely repulsed we were drawn up in line and started to take part in the engagement when the firing closed and we came back the 2^nd Penn worked all night throwing up earthworks and started a fort to day we have been to work hard at it they shelled us some this afternoon from 5 to 6

Tuesday, June 7, 1864.

The Rebs shelled us occasionally all night and got their range very accurate shells struck and burst all round us but no one hurt our troops worked all ~~day~~ night on the fort and entrenchments half of our regt worked on the fort this AM the rest this PM

the Rebs through a few shell over just as we were relieved this noon they burst and flew all round & among us but only wounding one of another regt

shelled us like sam hill this PM no one hurt. we took their battery

our regt were drawn up in line under the brow of the hill & lay on their arms to night

Wednesday, June 8, 1864.

There was no firing last. the band played a few tunes. we have been building rifle pits all day. I wrote a letter to Milan this PM. very quiet to day

Thursday, June 9, 1864.

Only a few shell exchanged to day and picket firing the boys worked some on the rifle pits as usual &c

Friday, June 10, 1864.

Rather quiet and weather warm

no firing except in the front rifle pit

Chas Hawes visited us to day & the bands have been playing nearly all the time night & day. I heard a Reb band this AM

Saturday, June 11, 1864.

All quiet in the vicinity of Gainers Hill only occasionally a shell exchanged and the sharp shooters on both sides suffer some

the loss on each side is about 100 pr day

we dug a rifle pit in front of the Col's quarters to day &c

Sunday, June 12, 1864.

The weather is very warm, dry and dusty all seemed rather quiet this AM except a few shell were exchanged I hav'nt learned of any casualtys. we recd marching orders this forenoon and we got packed up & started about noon for white house landing on the Pamunkey River where we arrived at sundown.

Very much fatigued indeed having marched a distance of 18 or 20 miles. here we camp for the night the most of the 18^th Corps and some from the 6 & 9^th the 14^th regt &c

Monday, June 13, 1864.

Still pleasant we all feel rather hard up this morning though somewhat rested from our march

we got a chance to wash up and get a few refreshments this AM. we packed up and 7 Cos of us went on board the steamer Monohansett the rest took another ship all bound for Bermuda Hundred we got started about noon and steamed down the Pamunkey . the took round on the Chessapeake & anchored for the night about 10 miles up the River James having thus far a pleasant ride

Tuesday, June 14, 1864.

Steamed up early and passing several places of note such as Ft Powhattan harrisons landing (the place where Old Gen^l W^m H Harrison was born) City point &c got to Bermuda hundred about 11^oc. here we only stoped a few moments and here I saw Archie Hollenbeck (Qr. M. Dept)

here we turned about went about 5 miles up the Appomattox River to point of rocks & landed went back through the woods about 2 miles & camped the remainder of our regt arrived at 8 PM. AM Lt Col Barney and Q'M Spicer who was camped near here came over to see us. Seymour B. Moody was discharged

Wednesday, June 15, 1864.

In front of Petersburgh Battery N^o 5. we left pt of rocks about midnight marched up about 5 miles & crossed the Appomattox R. went about 2 miles & waited the arrival of the rest of our corps which was ordered to advance on Petersburgh

here a regt of colored inft & a battery of arty advanced & soon firing began drove in the enemies pickets charged & took 2 batteries then our Div took the advance our regt in front to support the Arty about noon we arrived in the woods about 600 yds from the enemies batteries. there we formed in line & threw out a strong skirmish line we lie on our faces our right resting on a railroad while the rebs shelled us severely & also suffered from their sharp shooters & near sundown the whole line was formed on our left & our batterys opened on them after silencing theirs we charged on their works & took them with all their arty small arms &c & nearly all their force prisoner

[margin]

we took 6 batterys. they left their dead & wounded on the field our regt lost one killed and several wounded 3 of our Co

Thursday, June 16, 1864.

Battery No 5 in front of Petersburgh all seemed comparatively quiet during the the night. Gen^ls Burnside's and Hancocks corps arrived this AM took position on our left we have been working hard all day repairing the battery our guns occasionally throw shell around to the enemy's works. about 5^oc the engagement begins the most severe on the left

~~Our corps are ordered back to Point of Rocks start at sundown march all night camp in our old ground at 3^oc~~

(show little to fast, as it is now the 22^nd) camp in the pits for the night

Friday, June 17, 1864.

~~Near pt Rocks~~

~~we arrived here about 3^oc this morning the men are very much fatigued as for me I am completely tired out~~

Batt No 5

we have worked all day on the battery nothing of interest takes place through the day

the show opens about 5^oc the most brilliant on the left our corps ordered back to pt Rocks &c

Saturday, June 18, 1864.

we arrived in our old camp ground about 2^oc AM

stay there till toward night & move back to the river & camp we recd our mail this PM the first since we left Washington I recd one from Emma and one from Father &c

Sunday, June 19, 1864.

Pt of Rocks &c

all quiet to day

we drew more rations to day &c recd another mail. I recd a letter from N. S. and wrote one to Emma our Battallion are to go out on picket to night &c &c

Monday, June 20, 1864.

We formed in line across a cornfield. lay of our things got some spades & went to throwing up a rifle pit. there being one line in front, worked all night. about midnight myself with 14 others went to the front pits

then from there we went out as skirmish line with Co B while a comp'y or two of darkies went to falling trees

when

they began chopping Capt C thought the dance had opened and came up to the front pit we finished the pit about noon

I am not very well to day &c

Tuesday, June 21, 1864.

2^nd Line of fortifications in front of Petersburgh

we left Pt of Rocks this AM and accompanied by the rest of corps made quite a hasty march taking a rout somewhat to the right and nearer than we came before

Our Battallion ~~were~~ only came in from picket about midnight last night,

drew one days rations this morning &c

Wednesday, June 22, 1864.

In camp near Petersburgh all has been comparatively quiet to day. I have had charge of a fatigue party &c

Thursday, June 23, 1864.

Still in camp till 9^oc this eve

several shell have droped over here to day &c

we drew 4 days rations &c

Our brigade are to go out on picket to night in the front pits &c

Friday, June 24, 1864.

Front line of rifle pits on picket 1 mile front of Petersburgh

no general engagement to day. we have been firing occasionally at the rebs as often as they stick up their heads

Sergt Dean Co. G killed Reed Co. C killed some wounded &c

Saturday, June 25, 1864.

Still on picket

all goes on about as yesterday

Frank Gotham Co G killed &c

we were relieved from the front pit and we take the 2^nd line this eve

Sunday, June 26, 1864.

2^nd line of pits

shelling has been going on as usual

no advance on either side

I recd and wrote a letter home to day

not very well

Monday, June 27, 1864.

I am quite unwell

we have been in the pit all day and returned to night and go back and camp by the brook

some skirmishing all day and canonading this was mostly from our mortars &c

Tuesday, June 28, 1864.

I feel no better

we are still camped by the Rail road & brook

canonading and skirmishing as usual

Wednesday, June 29, 1864.

I have not been as well to day had a chill this PM

W^m Owen Ira & a good many are sick

the doctor ordered us that are sick back into a grove &c

the regt are to go out to the rifle pits this eve

Cousin Emma's 22^nd Birth day

Thursday, June 30, 1864.

Convalescent camp near Petersburgh &c

I have been pretty miserable to day get but little care

the regt are in the rifle pits

there was quite a sharp engagement on the left this PM several dead and wounded were brought in here

the shell flew over here pretty lively for an hour or so

Friday, July 1, 1864.

There was considerable skirmishing last night in front of us. not much fighting to day

John Otis & Enos was wounded by shell to day

I am some better Ira & Billy tent with me we get a little corn starch lemonade &c. another fight took place about 5^oc & lasted till in the eve to day I dont know the result

our regt are relieved from the pits to night John D. Otis died from a wound recd yesterday in abdomen by shell

Saturday, July 2, 1864.

I feel considerable better this AM & I & Billy go back to the company

I recd a paper from Milan this AM wrote to him this AM &c for some money &c

things rather quiet

Sunday, July 3, 1864.

not much firing to day, warm dry as usual. our regt go into the 2^nd line of works this eve the right resting on the r'r

Monday, July 4, 1864.

Still in the 2^nd line of works &c no unusual firing to day. we draw rations &c three from Co M killed

I recd a letter from Emma—home &c

Tuesday, July 5, 1864.

The firing has been about as usual all from the Arty and sharp shooters Ivory from Co L killed I wrote letters to Emma and M E Swan

Our regt go to the rear this eve &c

Wednesday, July 6, 1864.

Nothing unusual occurs to day

Hurb Freeman 14^th was here their regt are in the pits &c

very warm & dry

Ira & others returned to duty I dont feel so well this PM

draw rations this eve &c

Thursday, July 7, 1864.

Still in camp I feel better to day operations are about as usual &c

I think our regt are to go into the pits to night &c

Friday, July 8, 1864.

2^nd line of works

not much but canonading to day

very warm & dry

I am not well

Cornelius Ahern our beloved comrade was shot last night while on fatigue duty

Saturday, July 9, 1864.

Operations about as usual we our Co went in the front line last night

we are to be relieved to night

Sunday, July 10, 1864.

In camp in the ravine &c

have inspection preaching &c

nothing unusual takes place

Monday, July 11, 1864.

Still in camp where all is quiet

we do nothing but camp guard, police &c. we go to the 3^d line to night it rains a very little

Tuesday, July 12, 1864.

All comparatively quiet I hear of no casualties in our regt to day sharp shooters are very busy &c

Wednesday, July 13, 1864.

Operations about as yesterday

one in Co L killed I understand

we are relieved to night &c

Thursday, July 14, 1864.

we moved our camp from the ravine back upon the knowl & piched tents &c

had brigade insp to day by Chas Seaton

Our brigade are to go out on fatigue duty to night

we drew rations &c

Friday, July 15, 1864.

Still in camp our regt went up to batt no 5 and worked all night leveling off the back of the works filling up the ditches &c. I was det to watch the guns &c

considerable canonading to day. I feel about the same. the doct gave me some medicine

W^m Owen A. J. Downer and Jno Cumins were sent to the Corps Hospital &c

quite cool to day & cloudy

we got to the pits this eve (front)

I am sick

Saturday, July 16, 1864.

Front pit

all rather quiet

the Doct excused me & sent me to the rear I am quite miserable

Sunday, July 17, 1864.

Very warm & dry as usual I am in camp with some other of our boys H. Robinson was shot through the head this AM and survived but a short time our regt are relieved to night &c

Monday, July 18, 1864.

Still in camp

the regt were ordered to pack up for a march at 2^oc AM which they did & lie on arms till light & pitched tents again

I recd a letter from Father & inclosed $5.00 & some stamps &c and this PM I answered it

all quiet as usual

Tuesday, July 19, 1864.

It rained some last night & all day to day till about 3^oc I recd a letter from Manford this AM & 2 stamps making 8 in the two letters I acknowledged the rec^t of his letter in the one I wrote to Father as I had not mailed it

I was sent to the Corps hospt with 8 others of our Co & several others from the regt

when we got there they examined us & sent Farr, Nutting & myself on to the next hospital near pt of Rocks & where we arrived at 8 PM &c

Wednesday, July 20, 1864.

In the Hospital near pt of Rocks

Nutting & I chum together rested well last night had the best of care to day I saw Sim & some other of the boys

we went to the convalescent camp this PM which is about ten rods from the hospt. I have just had a shake pretty rough too

it rained last night

Thursday, July 21, 1864.

Convalescent Camp

I have not been as well to day. I have not been able to go after my meals since I have been here had another shake this eve &c

Friday, July 22, 1864.

I have felt better all day. we were examined again to day & about 100 or more went back to the regt

pleasant to day

I wrote to Ira this PM. I had another shake last night & I feel another coming on &c

Saturday, July 23, 1864.

Convanescent Camp

nothing unusual has taken place to day I am no better to day I took a walk over to the river this PM a distance of about a mile and got very tired &c

Sunday, July 24, 1864.

Convalescent Camp near pt of rocks Va

three more of our boys came here to day I feel about the same I had no shake last night

the Christian Com have meetings every eve but I have not been able to attend any yet nothing unusual to day

it rained pretty hard last night

Monday, July 25, 1864.

Convet Camp Va

all goes on as usual

my cough is nearly well &c sick call at 10^oc AM as usual I feel some better

I wrote home this PM I think

Tuesday, July 26, 1864.

Convt Camp Va

Myself & the boys generally are feeling some stronger I walked down to the river this PM

it is very warm to day

the boys built a bowery for the sickest to eat under this PM &c. I got shaved &c

Wednesday, July 27, 1864.

Convt Camp Va

all goes on as usual

I feel some better &c

A. N. Sprague came over this eve

he reports that corpls Kennedy and Maitland were reduced to the ranks the day after I left and B Metcalf Chas. W. Brown & himself were made Corporals &c

Thursday, July 28, 1864.

Camp near pt Rocks

I feel pretty well to day. I hired my washing done &c

Kennedy, Bert Brown & H. P. Taylor came to day. I have waited on Sprague got him into my tent &c

he has got the rheumatism

all quiet as usual

Friday, July 29, 1864.

C. C. Va

I have been some better to day

quite a number from the regt came here to day. Ira Carter Parsons Potter Hurd Underhill Kennedy A M Brown and some others

things generally quiet

Saturday, July 30, 1864.

CCVa

I feel bout the same we hear to night that our Div & Corps have gone to the left we have heard musketry & Arty firing in the vic of Petersburgh considerable to day about 200 reb prisoners passed here to day &c.

Sunday, July 31, 1864.

Nothing unusual has taken place to day. it has been very warm. had preaching

at the C. Com. Svc I had a shake to pass off time and feel rather miserable

Monday, August 1, 1864.

It has been very hot all day I have not been as well. All the soldiers of the camp were examined to day and about 200 were sent to their regts

all from my tent but me a good many were not able to go

I recd two letters from home one from father one from Emma

all quiet

G^eo W Ricket died this AM from disease of the brain

Tuesday, August 2, 1864.

Still in Conv Camp

all seems quiet as usual

quite warm I feel some better our ward have a change in doctors to day &c

I write a letter this PM to Father and sent some letters which came for G^eo Ricket to his father

we got a piece of water melon to day &c

I recd a letter from Ira

M^cVay was taken from my tent to the hospital this eve

Wednesday, August 3, 1864.

It has been some cooler to day & it has been cloudy &c

it rained some last night & I mailed the letters wrote yesterday to day

some were sent off on the boat to day

A. N. Sprague &c

I feel pretty well all quiet

Thursday, August 4, 1864.

I feel about the same to day

I wrote a line to Sergt Eggleston and recd one from Marion E. Swan

it has not been quite as warm to day I heard quite heavy canonading & musketry this eve in the direction of Petersburgh

Friday, August 5, 1864.

It has been very warm all day and I have felt quite miserable they sent me to the hospital this eve a good many sick came in this eve

Saturday, August 6, 1864.

I am feeling pretty well to day still remain in the hospital

the weather has not been quite as hot

Sunday, August 7, 1864.

I have felt quite well to day

the doct sent most of them from this ward to the convalescent camp & the rest off on the boat

S. B. Hinman was brought here this eve severely wounded

Ira came from the field hospt with him & stays with me to night

our regt have been in the pits on the left 4 days &c

E. S. Penney & Lawrence got bruised some from a shell &c

Monday, August 8, 1864.

Convt Camp

warm as usual

Ira went back to the field hospt this AM

I recd ~~and~~ from & wrote to Manford to day recd a stamp

it rained some this PM & I had a chill &c

the chaplain was here & brought the mail I sent some from the office back to the boys

Thursday, August 11, 1864.

It has been pleasant but very hot

some of the boys were sent to their regts

I volunteered to go to the Co. I started at 3^oc went about 2 miles and stayed with the boys guarding cattle

I have not been very well to day

Friday, August 12, 1864.

Camp in front of Petersburgh Va

I started at daylight & came on to the field hospital & took breakfast with Ira stayed till 8^oc & started on. got to the C^o before noon & reported for duty got my gun, &c.

the men have been putting bowery's over the tents &c

day very warm

Saturday, August 13, 1864.

On board a transport steaming down the james river

our regt got orders to report to Washington about 2^oc this morning those on detached duty were relieved and we left camp before daybreak

got to City Point about noon

I got nearly exhausted from the march

we took the boat this PM & are now on our way

the 2^nd Corps were relieved from Petersburgh were at City Pt when we left they are to go up the James I think to reinforce some other place

[margin]

I recd a letter from Emma &c

Sunday, August 14, 1864.

Well this morning found us steaming up the old Potomac

I observed nothing new on the journey we arrived in Washington about noon landed at the Arsenal dock

we are stopping here now waiting for the Col to return with orders

I presume we shall stay all night

Monday, August 15, 1864.

Fort Whipple Va

we stayed at the arsenal till about 8^oc this AM then marched up through the City & into Georgetown crossed the river &c

our Co with 3 others came here

I have had a chill & feel very much exhausted

the boys have cleaned out the quarters this PM the quarters are firstrate &c

Tuesday, August 16, 1864.

Head Quarters

Fort Whipple Va

well all have been engaged to day in arranging things and policing up around it has rained some through the day &c &c

Wednesday, August 17, 1864.

Fort Whipple Va

we recd four months pay this AM I got $62.00 I wrote a letter to Father and inclosed $50.00

I have not been as well to day

I had another shake I am not on duty yet. the regt have parade

I spent 14$ & fink payed me for borrowed money

Thursday, August 18, 1864.

Fort Whipple Va

I feel pretty well to day

the weather has been rainy somewhat

Co drill & parade

Friday, August 19, 1864.

Arlington Heights Va

it has been rainy all day I am about the same &c

Co drill & parade

Saturday, August 20, 1864.

Fort Whipple Va

weather lowery—things go on as usual. I recd letters from Manford and Menzo to day

Co have no drill

parade as usual

Sunday, August 21, 1864.

Fort Whipple Va

the weather is somewhat rainy I am better the Co is so small & the guard duty so much that the boys come on every day Ira and the boys left at the hospt came to day the Batt have inspection & preaching

parade &c

Monday, August 22, 1864.

Fort Whipple Va

It has been quite rainy to day

I wrote to Manford and sent Mother Mrs Gates photograph & I bought a photo of this fort & place & sent to Eddie

the doct told me I must go to the hospt

I feel better to day

I got a wench to do my washing &c

the Co have parade as usual

Tuesday, August 23, 1864.

Arlington Heights

Fort Whipple Va

Wednesday, August 24, 1864.

Arlington Heights

Fort Whipple Va

Thursday, August 25, 1864.

Fort Whipple Va

Arlington Heights

the weather has been somewhat rainy. drill this AM

nothing new

Friday, August 26, 1864.

Fort Whipple Va

weather is pleasant

Co drill as usual

I recd from and wrote a letter to Emma

Sergt Wilkinson put under arrest

the Capt took down the amt of clothing the boys wanted

parade as usual

Saturday, August 27, 1864.

Fort Whipple Va

weather pleasant

Co drill this AM

I sent to the City and bought a bushel of potatoes cost $2.00

Mrs. M^cCumber was here to see Cha^s to day but he is at the hospt

Co parade &c

Sunday, August 28, 1864.

Fort Whipple Va

quite warm to day

Inspection as usual

parade &c

I am feeling almost as tough as ever

Monday, August 29, 1864.

Fort Whipple

pleasant as usual

I have been cleaning up my gun and equipments &c

I report for duty the Co drill & parade

Lieut Gilman recd com^s as Capt Ja^s Potter & Metcalf have been to the City

Moody & Kemp are on guard

~~I report~~

Tuesday, August 30, 1864.

Fort Whipple Va

the weather is pleasant

I am well and report for duty go on dress parade

I re collected $100 of E Peters for Richards

I am on guard at the fort

Wednesday, August 31, 1864.

Fort Whipple Va

the day has been pleasant I am relieved from guard we have inspection and muster at 9^oc

Walter Cirtwell and A. J. Downer were made Corporals and N. M. Gleason promoted to Sergeant

drill & parade

as usual

Thursday, Sept. 1, 1864.

Fort Whipple Va

we drill as usual

Col Whistler Comdg Brigade inspected us in Art he found considerable fault & censured the officers especially Capt C for not understanding their business better

he said the men understood drill better than the officers

have parade

I recd a letter from and wrote to Manford

Friday, Sept. 2, 1864.

Fort Whipple Va

we drill and have parade as usual

I have not been quite as well had a chill and fever this afternoon

recd a letter from S S Richards Capt would^nt excuse me from drill this PM

Corp Church had a shake this PM & Capt C excused him

Saturday, Sept. 3, 1864.

Fort Whipple Va

we drill AM & PM

I had a shake this afternoon (tough) drew clothing afternoon

I drew shoes, pants, 1 shirt, 1 drawers. blouse 1 blanket

Sold my shoes to frank Roberts

Maj Campbell drilled us ½ hour on parade

I recd a letter from Milan

Sunday, Sept. 4, 1864.

Fort Whipple Va

we have sunday morning inspection at 9^oc

I had a severe shake this afternoon fever and headache and am not over it now (bed time)

the Capt put me under arrest because I was^nt able to be out on parade

Monday, Sept. 5, 1864.

Fort Whipple Va

the Co drill but rain prevents parade

the doct takes me Corp Standish & others up on the sick list sent Church to the hospital

I had another rough shake this afternoon

write a letter to S. S. Richards &c

Tuesday, Sept. 6, 1864.

Fort Whipple Va

I dont feel well but have no shake

the day is lowery

no drill this PM or parade

Wednesday, Sept. 7, 1864.

Fort Whipple Va

the day has been pleasant, it rained last night

Co drill as usual

Ira is on guard

I spend half a dollar or more for peaches, apples milk corn bread butter pie &c &c

as usual

I feel well to day

I have written to Milan sent him a card &c

(if—

Thursday, Sept. 8, 1864.

Fort Whipple Va

Weather fair

nothing unusual has taken place

Frank Herrington has been to the hospital &c

Friday, Sept. 9, 1864.

Fort Whipple Va

Weather pleasant

I recd a letter from Emma

The company drill and parade as usual

Ira & Graves went to the city Ira got me a cap &c

I am having the teethache to day

Saturday, Sept. 10, 1864.

Fort Whipple Va

It has rained some to day. the boys drill this forenoon and clean the quarters this afternoon

I sewed on one pr of chevrons for Moody and one for Wilkinson

.25^cts pr pair

I am quite well &c

Sunday, Sept. 11, 1864.

Fort Whipple Va

The Co have had insp and parade as usual

we have had 2 or 3 hard showers to day

It hailed some

Mart Swan was here this afternoon he returned to his Company last Monday

Ira is on picket

I am pretty smart &c

Monday, Sept. 12, 1864.

Fort Whipple Va

the weather is cool and cloudy and rains some I am feeling well and am returned to duty but not released from my arrest

Co drill and parade

R C Church not expected to live Finney and Aslter pretty sick

Tuesday, Sept. 13, 1864.

Fort Whipple Va

weather pleasant &c

Co drill, parade &c

I wrote a letter to Marion E. Swan

Mott & Larkin commence to white wash the quarters over

Geo Finney & Aslter went to the hospt

G Straw came for us &c

Wednesday, Sept. 14, 1864.

Fort Whipple Va

weather fair but we had a fine shower

the Capt released me from arrest he is having the ague & fever &c

A. M. Bullock returned to the Co. E. S. Penney was put in the guard house

about 200 recruits came to day

Alonzo recd news that Cousin Egbert died Aug 4^th at Charleston S.C. in prison

Thursday, Sept. 15, 1864.

Fort Whipple Va

weather fair

I drilled the recruits to day

I recd a letter from Manford and wrote one to Cousin Emma

Capt C has got the ague & fever &c

Friday, Sept. 16, 1864.

Fort Whipple Va

the Co drill &c as usual I am on guard but dont feel well so I get excused this evening

Saturday, Sept. 17, 1864.

Fort Whipple Va

weather fine &c

the Co drill this AM

do their washing &c this afternoon

nothing else of importance

I feel better than yesterday but am taken up on the sick report

Sunday, Sept. 18, 1864.

Fort Whipple Va

Still pleasant

the Co have their usual inspection parade &c

About 100 or more recruits came to day 32 were assigned to our Co making it full

O S Gardner and brother among the rest. they all seem to be a fine lot of men

Monday, Sept. 19. 1864.

Fort Whipple Va

still pleasant

I am returned to duty and drill a squad of recruits this PM

Corpl Cirtwell put in arrest for staying over time on his pass

the Co parade as usual

O. S. Gardner detailed for clerk in the Ajt's office &c

Tuesday, Sept. 20, 1864.

Fort Whipple Va

The weather has been fine I am on guard 1^st relief Countersign Gibraltar

Ira set up with Joiner last night

The officers are holding a Genl Court Martial at ft Cass for the purpose of

DATABASE CONTENT

(2275)

DL0489

Diaries

1864

Diary of Corporal Miles Littlefield, 10th NY Heavy Artillery

Tags: Abraham Lincoln, African Americans, Alcohol, Ambrose Burnside, Animals, Artillery, Battle of Cold Harbor, Blockade, Burials, Camp/Lodging, Cavalry, Chores, Clothing, Crops (Other), Death (Home Front), Death (Military), Desertion/Deserters, Destruction of Land/Property, Discharge/Mustering Out, Discipline, Dreams, Drilling, Executions, Family, Fatigue/Tiredness, Fighting, Food, Foraging/Theft, Fortifications, Furloughs, Gender Relations, George G. Meade, Guard/Sentry Duty, Guns, History, Home, Hospitals, Hygiene, Illnesses, Injuries, Insects, Laws/Courts, Love, Mail, Marching, Medicine, Mexico, Militia, Money, Music, Navy, Newspapers, Payment, Photographs, Picket Duty, Poetry, Prisoners of War, Promotions, Railroads, Reading, Recreation, Recruitment/Recruits, Reinforcements, Religion, Rivers, Sadness, School/Education, Ships/Boats, Siege of Petersburg, Supplies, Telegraph, Training, Unionism, United States Colored Troops, Vaccinations, Weather

People - Records: 1

(5309) [writer] ~ Littlefield, Miles C.

SOURCES

Miles C. Littlefield Diary, 1864, DL0489, Nau Collection

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