On board "The Merrimac"

Off the Jersey Shore

 

Dear Mother

                        Here I am upon the "ocean-wave" and seated in the manger of one of those horse stalls you saw on board the steamer, and such a time as we are having I never expected to experience in the course of my life. After our enthusiastic reception and still more brilliant departure we proceeded down the Harbor just below Fort Independence and anchored until about six o'clock Thursday morning when we steamed down past Fort Warren, Minot Light and finally took a last parting glance in the afternoon of the old Massachusetts shore, by passing Cape Cod and soon after the Vineyard. we took our last look and gave three rousing cheers. In the evening we passed the New York shore and we were under steam and sail going at the rate of 15 miles an hour. we sailed 106 miles at this rate when the sails were taken down and we steamed the next morning along the Jersey shore. Whenever I speak of being "off the shore of different states" we only know by / by the lat. and long. we are in, as we are and have been out of sight of land since we left Cape Cod. It appears from the steamer to be one vast circle of water with a border of trees around, but it is really but one mass of water. The sun rise and sun set seen from on board is truly magnificent coming as it appears to from its watery bed and sinking into the same at night. This is the most beautiful and pleasant side of the picture on board for you can imagine with 1500 men on the steamer the stowing away is rather close: for example three of us have to sleep in a bunk like mine at Readville and not big enough for two, this is on the lower deck, dark as a pocket and smells like a pig pen. it is in fact nothing better. we have had no chance to bathe or to change clothing not even boots nor shall we have until we arrive in Beaufort.

 

We eat, drink, sleep, and in a great measure act like so many pigs (but fare no better) so there is some excuse for it. I never thought I should have lived through such filth even had I been told of it. I do not com- / plain as some of them do for it does no good and I made up my mind before starting that I would stand as much as the next man and ask no favors of anyone and I mean to stand up to it. For breakfast we have hard bread and coffee without milk or sugar. for dinner, repitition of coffee a piece of something they call beef and one potatoe so you may imagine me upon these two meals a day. Very few have been seasick although to a great many this is their first trip out of sight of land. I have been perfectly well all the time and have learned the first degree of a soldiers life I think as do some of the others also. Sage was sea-sick for one

'Sunday morn. 8 oclock'

 

                        I should write much more but for the rolling of the steamer and as I have a friend aboard (Frank Sawyer) who returns with the steamer he volunteered to take this note home. We are now off Beaufort and shall be in the town in the course of an hour so I must close and give this note to him and you shall have more / particulars the first opportunity I have. I am 'gay and happy still' notwithstanding our hard living and am good for it so long as I have my health. remember me to all inquiring friends and relatives and to all of you at home I send much love and think of you very often. good-bye at present                   

                                                     

Yours most aff.

Elmar

 

Sunday noon off Beaufort—'All right' we are in before the other steamer "Mississippi" A great many pleasant incidents have occurred amongst us all which I should like to relate but lack the time to do so before we arrive so will save them for future matter. Love again to all

 

P.S. We all think we have had a remarkable escape from rebel privateers and the Captain of the steamer was constantly in fear the boys kept joking about the rebel "Alabama" which has taken so many prizes lately. There is no mistake but a schooner with one gun could have taken us 3000 men and everything aboard both steamers as easily as / possible—it was one of the greatest nuisances ever drempt of to send us down in such a manner without even a small gun aboard for protection—Good-bye.

 

Oct 30^th 1862

On board Steamer "Geo. C. Collins" of N.Y.

            Bound for Washington N.C.

 

Dear "All at Home"

                        Since I wrote you aboard the "Merrimac" I have experienced a little something of a soldiers life which they say is always gay and of course it must be. Well in the first place after having left the steamer at Beaufort we took a long train of cars consisting of baggage and cattle cars all open with stakes at the sides to hold on by and after much delay which always must occur in moving so large a body at once, we finally started on our way to Newbern. On our way we had one of the benefits of a soldiers spice of life a complete drenching we had to grin and bear it but it was rather tough for / the first. But after we were wet through we began to feel quite merry and had you seen us packed on board that train, singing and whistling in the midst of the 'pouring' you would have thought us crazy. It don't rain here but what it pours buckets at a time. it takes only four drops to soak you through and make the mud and sand up over your boots. On our arrival at Newbern which was just at dusk, we were welcomed by brother soldiers from the 24^th our first N.E.G. Regt. as well as those of the 23^rd 17^th and many others. I found quite a number whom I knew on my arrival and have seen many since who were all astonished to see me out here, and I was to see them many being old schoolmates. All the time it was raining but we thought little of that for we were as wet as the rain itself and getting off the cars we proceeded through the southern mud to look for a sleeping place and you may believe we needed one as many of us slept but little on our four days voyage here and were pretty well used up, judging by appearances which were awful as we had not touched face, hair, or clothing since leaving home having had not / the least chance for so doing on the steamer. but though we fared hard you would have noticed it only in appearance as we were very merry though as usual in a large company you will always find some grumblers so we have them here and place a dark mark against their names for their efforts to make trouble but they have not nor will they gain anything by so proceeding against 'hard tack' as we call it. We went on through thick and thin for about a quarter of a mile and finally we reached a large brick building which after the officers had explored the interior of we we ushered into the comfortable(?) shelter of a large machine and engine shop with the iron, rust, and oil, etc. laying round in every direction. This was very inviting as you can imagine nevertheless we made it so in double quick and having taken off our trappings and wet clothing we set about finding a place to dry ourselves we took possession of an engine boiler and setting it just outside the door we piled in the wood and tar-barrel staves by the quantity and soon had one of the jolliest fires you ever saw or / felt. we were soon dry enough to attempt to have a "snore" but before so doing we were invited by the 24^th to their camp within a stones throw to partake of hot coffee hard bread and salt fish which they had prepared. It did not take long to settle the coffee but the way the fish and hard crackers flew round was a caution for you to watch closely else you would have your eye shut by pieces coming in contact with said visionary organ. After keeping up this fun for about an hour the most of us had cleared a place amongst the rubbish to rest our weary limbs and were undisturbed in our slumbers, with the exception of an occasional piece of fish or bread brushing across our faces on its way to some sonorous but innocent sleeper. and we awoke in the morning amidst all the debris much refreshed by our night's repose. Soon those who were bright like myself sought to refresh the inner man and we made tracks for the Newbern town at once and being passed by the town guard (as we had just arrived) we proceeded to procure a breakfast at a place they called a hotel but on entering found we should have to wait an hour or more for satisfaction so we sought a house and / and demanded of its occupants the wherewith to sustain and refresh our drooping spirits and ravenous appetites. It was soon produced and dealt out to us in "Fifth Avenue" style by a "shady" hand but not so black a heart I know. having partaken bountifully of meat sweet potatoes and coffee we left and took up our line of march round the city for the space of three hours or so and having made an examination to our satisfaction we returned to our temporary resting place where round a fire we related our various stories of obtaining something to eat and it was quite amusing to listen to the various manoeuvres that were resorted to, to obtain a breakfast. some routed out private families others made the "contrabands" spread themselves lively and others waited at the so called 'Hotel', all were satisfied however which can seldom be said. About noon on Monday 27^th Oct. we took up our traps and marched to our new home which was to be in barracks similar to those at Readville only in one building there are a thousand instead of a hundred but they are divided by board partitions into compact rooms and the bunks are three in height insterad of two and no wider than those at Readville

 

[numbered diagram with key: 5 Companies, 5 Companies, Front, my room (x), Front]

 

This is shape of the building /

 

It is at right angles and I have the corner and most pleasant room we think. I sleep with Page as usual and next a window (doors and windows open out doors on both sides) Charlie Demeritt and Fred Jackson in next bunk. my room is where cross X is and looks right out on the Neuse river on one side and the Trent on the other. our camp is a quarter of a mile only from the town and we go in and out at pleasure; a gun boat floats in the river opposite my window and every half hour day and night strikes the time. During Monday, Tuesday and until Wednesday night we were camped in tents containing 20 persons each and each under charge of a corporal so I had my handfull seeing that the 20 had their daily food etc we enjoyed ourselves much there however we had a fire in the centre under ground which would occasionally threaten to smoke us out. We lay as close together as possible and kept decently warm through the night. Since we came the 24^th boys have told us that for over a year it has not been so cold here. I am much disappointed in regard to the weather here. they have regular spring and summer days with damp and chilly nights and in all is a very unhealthy place to live in but it is / quite pleasant too. We had been here but three nights and were just recovering from our fatigue and becoming accustomed to our new quarters, when just as 'taps' were sounding on Wednesday morning night we received orders to make ourselves ready for 'battle' on the following morning at four o'clock. You may imagine the 44^th was astir the rest of the night and did not sleep much, the cooks were boiling and baking until early morning, and all were astir and on hand at four prompt. Each company had formed in line front of its quarters and received five days rations in their haversacks and with their overcoats on with two blankets and other equipments strapped on their backs they stood ready to be "marching along", When as I stood as usual A no 1 at head of my company Col. Lee sent for me to report on 'Color Guard' so on Color Guard I am as before and as there are nine of us we have a jolly time together. Tell Isaac Sid Hazelton is on Color Guard also Billy Page, Garner, Blanchard, Lawrence, Gould, Macomber and Johnson compose our mess. We occupy the centre of the 44^th and do nothing but take care of the Red White and Blue we neither drill or do guard or picket duty and / have a general pass the same as commissioned officers. I am right next to my company and am directing corporal or captain of Color Guard which duty is the same as a captains in his company We nine forming an independent body and being a tall set we act in a tall manner to keep up our reputation which we endeavor to do as we occupy the first post of honor and danger in a Regt. and we shall endeavor to sustain what the 44^th has already acquired at home and mean it shall abroad "The model Regiment as a name and a truth. We (that is the Color Guard) form first and the Regt. forms and takes it line or dress from them. so we took our position and as soon as the Regt. was in line we started for the wharf where the steamer Collins in which I am now writing was stationed, and having embarked we together with about 4000 more troops on board 18 schooners and steamers proceeded down Neuse River and Pamlico Sound amid the cheers of the numerous crowd ashore and afloat. The scenery down the river through the sound and up the Tar river was very picturesque and pleasing and though there was much grumbling amongst the men on account of their / having to subsist for two days and one night on salt junk and hard bread, I could not but think how many would have given a hundred dollars to have enjoyed the same scenery, only under more pleasant circumstances. I enjoyed the panorama of views such as sunken gun-boats, steamers and other craft, deserted plantations, the varied mixture of hill, plain and valley, the blending of the autumn foliage was a feast for the eye of an artist as well as soldiers. but I am afraid few appreciated it, thinking too much of the inner man. On Friday noon we reached Washington N.C. on the Tar River and having landed with the other Regt^s of Infantry Cavalry and Artillery we encamped on the bank of the river and built us a covering with rubber blankets boards and corn stalks for the night. the nights are very cold here and we have to get up several times, keep the fires from going down and warm ourselves thoroughly to prevent having the 'chills' We have great fun foraging which foraging consists in appropriating to our especial use and benefit such animals and things as we come across in our march and in and around our camp, be it a / pig or piano all we have to do is to walk up and take possession. everything is confiscated in these regions and we have quite lively times in shooting pigs, killing chickens ducks and geese and even oxen and cows, while last but not least is the quantity of honey, molasses, and sugar we 'cabbage' to sweeten ourselves with. this is where the variety of soldiers life appears, for then we live like 'generals'. upon our arrival at Washington we feasted on roast pig, sweet potatoes and 'hoe cake' the last mentioned recall to my mind the well remembered indian cakes Grandmother used to make. We rush into any negro habitation and order 'hoe cake' if they don't hurry in its production we turn them out and do it ourselves. The negros here are of no account except to fetch and carry, and make hoe cake, and it would make you laugh to see their dress—"some in rags, some in tags, and some in velvet gowns" and some from appearances don't dress at all and present a most comical appearance. when they move, laugh or sing there is something you can't help laughing at they are so irresistibly funny and yet they are really more intelligent than / northern folks give them credit for. they get used rather rough near the camping grounds though we pay them for all they bring to sell. Sweet Potatoes are under your feet all the time and we can live on them at our pleasure. sweet potatoe pies are an institution here, try some at home. We stayed in Washington which is a place similar to Cambridge until Sunday morning when our baggage train arrived overland from Newbern distance 30 miles by land to Washington and over a hundred by water. Having collected our forces under command of Gen. Foster consisting of three brigades, ours under command of our N.E.G. Col. Stevenson and he is a splendid man as well as Gen. Foster who complinents our regiment highly for its discipline and deportment. We commenced our march, our first in battle array on Sunday morning and marched all day with one hour for intermission only for dinner, and if the boys were not tired I am much mistaken. a few however fell out in the afternoon being chaffed so they could not stand it but being relieved by the surgeon they marched in the rear. We timed six miles of the way and made it in just two hours which is nearly a double quick and I guess you would have / thought so if you should have seen the way we sweat in drops, but we were right upon the heels of about 4000 rebels which made it quite exciting and so less tiresome we marched 22 miles up to six o'clock when our skirmishers fired their first shots into the rebels rear guard. when all heard the fire from the front we were all excitement and called upon the Gen. to be put forward. finally he gave our Regt. the advance on the left and the 10^th Conn. on the right. two of our companies were employed in the woods as skirmishers and as they were attempting to reach their position through a brook of water up to their waists the rebels opened fire upon their whole line two of the men were killed and eight or ten wounded one having his arm shot off. the bullets flew over and around us by the quantity and we were ordered to lie down and there we lay three or four minutes listening to the whir and buzz of shot. After this fire and while the rebels were re-loading we rushed up as far as said brook having our cartridge boxes and rifles upon our shoulders to keep them from getting wet When the color guard had reached the centre of the brook up to waists in / water we were halted and stood for twenty minutes in the water waiting for the two companies, whose amunition was wet, to pass to the rear, together with the dead and wounded. about half had passed when the rebels fired again into our midst but it seemed as though we bore a charmed life for although the shot struck all around and seemed to pass within an inch of our heads but one more was wounded and that slightly near the eye, it seems they fired a little too high. Reaching after this fire the opposite side of the creek we formed in line across the woods the Color Guard being stationed across the road with woods on each side hardly had we taken our position when a shell from the enemy struck a tree just in front of us. several others striking we laid ourselves low and the firing from our artillery now commenced and the way the balls flew from the rear over our heads was truly warlike to experience. We kept advancing under the cover of our artillery until we reached the enemy's breast-works upon the side of a hill. these were reported to be deserted but as we advanced and were resting within a few rods of them a tremendous fire from behind a rail / fence broke upon us and for a moment we were astounded at their proximity. this fire was right at the centre of our regt. but like the rest was too high although the fire flashed right in our very faces The Color Guard and companies on both side returned the fire and dropt several of Uncle Jeff's companions in arms. The rebels continued to fire from time to time and so near to our person there wasn't much fun at the time and how so many escaped is a mystery to all. after shelling the woods in all directions for an hour or more afterwards we occupied the enemy's entrenchment and grounds and found we had killed 40 to say nothing of the number wounded and carried off with them. we lay on our loaded rifles the remainder of the night and morning but found the enemy had retreated double quick towards Williamston. the engagement lasted from 6 o'clock Sunday P.M. till 2 o'clock Monday morn. it was a splendid moonlight night and we should have been quite comfortable but for our soaking in the creek which filled our boots full of water with no way of stopping to get it out. the boys say there is a hole in the back of my blouse / where a bullet went by but as I have not had a chance to take off anything but my overcoat as yet I don't believe I am scratched. We sleep with everything on and only a rubber blanket between the ground and our selves. we were in a corn field till 5 o'clock resting about three hours when as tired as ever we started in pursuit of the enemy and after fording several streams over our boots we reached Williamston to find the enemy had passed through two hours previously we dined here on what we foraged on the way. In the afternoon we again set out after having pocketed the contents of the town and many guns left by the rebels. On the march any one was at liberty to lay hand on all kinds of property and they were not slow in so doing. it was quite amusing to see a dozen fellows rush from the ranks in pursuit of a flock of geese and returning each with a trophy others rushed in the plantations and trotted out the mules and horses left behind and you would see them mounted upon all kinds of animals riding along. I captured a fine white horse and if I hadn't made up my mind to march every step of the way I would have / had a fine ride, but seeing a poor lame fellow with his feet all raw and bleeding with marching and laying down by the roadside I presented him with my steed and his look of thankfulness I shall never forget. he rode that horse day after day and mile after mile and says he will never forget me. We camped on the ground Monday night and if my limbs didn't ache it is no matter, I pocketed a piece of mutton tallow in Williamston and having made a fire I off with my boots and gave my stockings a good drying and having dried and tallowed my swollen feet I put on my boots and lay down beside the fire to dry waking up about every hour to turn over. Every day and night we had out in advance a picket guard and skirmishers say a mile in advance of our main body. all night at intervals shots could be heard feeling the position of the enemies ground. Tuesday morning we started off everyone limping at first until we got warmed up when we went like grey-hounds the boys kept saying what's the good of going so fast? but that is all the good it did we kept up such a walk all day as ought to have / killed us and I don't see how we stood it as we did We expected and marched all day with rifles half cocked and loaded all day to meet the enemy as they had a fort and fortification a few miles in advance near Hamilton called Rainbow Bend & Bluff we came upon the entrenchments and Fort and found them deserted the night before. This Fort at Rainbow Bluff commanded the Roanoke River and prevented our Gun-boats going further up the river to Hamilton. We halted here a short time and had a chance to examine the earthworks and surroundings which were very formidable and would have given us a hard fight to have won. The Gun-boats followed us up the river and we took possession of Hamilton and contents and had a regular feast. As the Rebel Cavalry scouts were just leaving the town as we entered it, they fired upon our foraging party but lost one of their number by so doing and we burn a good part of the town for their sauciness. We pursued them for a number of miles and expected to reach Tarboro, but our scouts reaching us from / another direction and giving us information in that quarter, and as the object for which we had been sent out had been accomplished and as we had drawn a large rebel force from Richmond and vicinity to defend Tarboro Gen. Dix with his force has surrounded and probably before this time captured nearly all the rebel army in this vicinity. In fact it was fortunate for us all that we marched no farther for our boys couldn't have stood much more: two of our companies were on a skirmish but none were lost or wounded but two cavalry men were lost. they had to march 5 miles double quick and 12 miles afterwards to overtake our advance. We marched from this point near Halifax back to Hamilton thence to Williamston, limping as we went. I felt first rate all the time and didn't blister or hurt my feet on the whole march, but the balls of my feet were very tender for the first few days after starting out. From Williamston we marched to Plymouth on the Roanoke river where we were delighted to find our original steamers and transports / which conveyed us to Washington, waiting to take us to Newbern, so on the Wednesday P.M. Nov. 12^th I find myself one days sail from Plymouth on board the Gen. Collins again bound home to Newbern. Now if you will take your map of North Carolina and trace out our sail and march here it is for you. Starting from Newbern sailed down the Neuse river Pamlico Sound and river, Tar river to Washington marched from here to Williamston from thence to Hamilton, through water and mud and such specimens of each is horrible to think of, the mud just like pitch would nearly pull your boots off and then every little while having to ford a creek would fill your boots full of water, march in this condition all day and sleep in the wet all night. This is but a small part of the hardships of this life, it does no good to enumerate them as you all know to what one is exposed in this climate and country. From Hamilton we proceeded towards Halifax to a point 10 miles this side in a cornfield where learning our expedition had been successful we were rejoiced / to right about face towards Newbern via Hamilton Williamston and Plymouth having marched 117 miles at an awful rate all the time. a great many were laid up and sent home by Gun-boats when we had gone half the distance. I feel as well and as healthy as ever at home. The boys think nothing of powder and bullets now and even shoot pigs in the streets to the danger of life and limb of their companions. it became a regular nuisance and one man having been shot yesterday the sport has been forbidden. From Plymouth we go on Roanoke River and Albemarle Sound past Roanoke Island and any quantity of other islands into Pamlico Sound and Neuse River home to Newbern where we shall arrive tomorrow Thursday morning Nov 13^th just two weeks from our departure from that port and three from Boston, having been through more in those three weeks than in a whole year before. If you could see me now on my arrival at Newbern not having had a change of clothing or a good wash for two whole weeks you would scarcely recognize your Elmar of Boston, but Elmar of / Newbern grim with powder dust and dirt just from the battle of Balls Mills, feeling as though he would like some clean clothes and a scrub to make him feel like himself again. I am as black as an Indian and live about the same as one at present but hope for better times. Often on our weary march and hasty meals I would think of you all around the table or in the sitting room as warm and nice as possible and have longed to drop in upon you for a few minutes for a cup of tea or cocoa and some of those nice tea buscuit or griddle cakes which used to taste so nice and would doubly so now

 

Do you know before you receive this I shall have reached my 23^rd birthday. I don't feel so old or don't mean to. it is about the first birthday I have spent away from home, that I remember of at least. I shall think of you all on the 15^th and would wish to be at home just for that day, but shall make the most of it here and give my mess a merry time in the evening I think. We pass over the ground and hours very pleasantly with singing and whistling. We have gained the name of the fighting / 44^th as we did all the fighting and skirmishing in the last battle and all the old regiments especially the 24^th make pets of us all. the 44^th has got up a good and gallant name and mean to keep it one and all. Would write more but havn't time. please direct as often as possible to Newbern N.C. and remember Elmar as ever Yours truly with love to all and friends

 

Thursday noon—Have just time to say I have arrived at Newbern this noon but the mail closes in half an hour so good morning

 

"All gay and happy"                                                              

Elmar

 

 

Newbern Nov 15^th 1862

Dear Sister

                        As I awoke about 4 o'clock this Sat. morning and was talking in my bunk to the boys around in theirs some one of them exclaimed "Here's a letter for you from some young lady" "You don't say so? Fork it over or you are a dead man" says your 'sonny' half upright by this time in his 'crib'. So over it came through half a dozen hands, each fellow stopping to peruse in the / darkness (if possible) the inscription, etc. but without any apparent satisfaction to themselves or to 'sonny' who impatiently awaited a grab at the welcome sheets, and was not long in lighting a candle to know the news from home 'sweet home' The only trouble I shall find in receiving letters will be I can't read them once and be satisfied and they will not last half long enough though they contain all the news and perhaps more. I expected to hear by this steamer from you and as it arrived last night with the 43^rd 45^th & 46^th Reg^s aboard I was on the lookout but got hold of it earlier than I thought for The 45^th arrived in Newbern first and encamped about 10 o'clock in front of our barracks some in tents and the rest on the ground. Our boys took hold and made hot coffee for the whole Reg^t in our camp kitchens and the way it went down was sufficient proof of its good qualities, even without milk. We were up the whole of night and into the morning waiting for the mail and hearing from the 45^th the latest from "Old Massachusetts" They fared equal to us in the passage here, said in Boston they left much snow and very fair sleighing. Here it is as a / summers day and if you wish to imagine how I perambulate round here imagine me in shirt sleeves, cap, pants in my boots and covered all over with dirt, this is in the day only however for by evening down come the overcoats, for the fog and dampness from the rivers give any one not accustomed to it the chills and fever, which is awful enough to look upon with out having to experience it yourself. Quite a number of the 44^th are sick from exposure and their 117 miles march a day laying out in the wet and damp at night with only a rubber blanket for protection it is a life which uses up a considerable number of any of the old Regt^s here. most fortunately I still retain my usual spirits and health and am I believe about the only fellow in Co D not suffering in some way or another. I am very thankful more so having been in the midst of so much sickness during the past two weeks. On the day and night of our fight we had quite an exciting time. I have forgotten what I told you of the affair but the bullets did come thick and fast and aimed sufficiently well to suit us for upon examination we found the trees pierced with shot within an inch of our lives Lieut Stebbins who stood just in the rear of us received several shots in his / clothes and was slightly wounded in the leg. when the heaviest fire was made upon us we had no idea the enemy were near us and were sitting on a high bank on the side of the road with the "colors" rolled up and leaning against the tree when from a fence just three rods in our rear came such a discharge of rifles that the blaze of the powder seemed to reach us and the bullets fell like hail around us. I didn't know much for a minute, but the first position I found myself in was aiming my rifle toward the fence and somebody called 'don't fire yet' A second after we all fired and loaded again I always thought I should tremble a little at first fire but they didn't give us a chance for a try for after looking to see if any of us were hurt and finding but few we were quite enthusiastic and could hardly be kept from firing to show the rascals our bullets were as hard as our feelings and as swift to reach them if they would give us a chance. there is no particular sensation in having bullets pass you only a continual whiz and buzz you can tell by the sound the difference between a common smooth bore musket ball and a rifle ball. it seems strange but it is really so when they come at short intervals but the cannon shot and shell are the pettiest / shots to hear and see. three of these shell struck within feeling distance of me and had it not been for the protection of fallen trees one of these balls would have been a little too much for my personal comfort. If our colors had been unfurled when we received that volley from the fence we should have had the honor of showing a dozen bullet holes through them. not expecting such a skirmish we had them encased. where those three shell struck all the 44^th staff was with the colors and we all thought we narrowly escaped a wound at least, but it is past and gone now though I could relate a hundred incidents which took place at that time which would entertain you I guess. those who were shot were buried on the spot. One of our regiment has a brother shot and had to take leave of his body in this dreary place called Balls Mills. On our march the tramp of the many feet and roll of wheels was the only music we had a chance or cared to listen to after travelling 12 miles without a rest and then in an hours intermission for dinner be on our 'taps' again for a similar tramp. In the morning when we had(nt) recov- / ered somewhat from our fatigue and got our limbs straightened out a trifle, we would have a jolly good sing for a few miles and make the time and distance pass lightly along. sometimes near night I would be so tired I would shut my eyes and just stumble along for I was determined I would not fall out of the ranks until I fell down. would march quite a distance this way and upon opening my eyes couldn't for the life of me tell in which direction I was to go in had I not been in with the rest. Some had to give up many dropt right down in the march and many more the minute we halted to camp and didn't rise until summoned next morning to resume the march I found it the best plan upon halting to keep moving round for sometime after and not get so stiff from laying down so long. How do you think Gen Binney would like to encamp in a southern corn-field in a dark rainy night and wake up if he could get to sleep to find himself soaked through and laying in a stream of water between two furrows. That was my position the night you occupied my nice little home bed and room. Only four nights out of fourteen / have been spent in comfortable quarters—the remainder in corn-fields with water within a quarter of a mile and such a rush for that you were fortunate to get any at all (4000 or more men at one stream or generally a well) the houses or plantations here are many miles apart which made the march less attractive and so much more fatiguing. Charlie Demerritt the last two days rode a hard looking donkey as he was sick but said it was full as hard as marching to ride such a beast. Charlie Ewer stood it first rate and sends his regards to you as does Charlie D. We made camp-fires every night and sit and lay round them talking over the days march and one of the number generally 'Sonny' while listening would be roasting a chicken duck or goose foraged by the color guard on their days tramp and by twelve or one o'clock we would get a piece of said flesh without salt or seasoning, which to us hungry men was a luxery, accompanied by hard tack which needs steel teeth to get into pieces. I made "mush" of stuff taken from the plantations several times at our camp fire and it went good I tell you a kind of / hasty pudding jolly stuff! It makes my mouth water sometimes to think of you at home seated round the table loaded with all the market affords and looking so cosy and comfortable with every convenience. And "its sweet to die for one's country" it is said and I should hope so for the living is bad enough, but it is no use complaining and as long as I feel as well as I do now I don't think the food will hurt me. We live pretty high since our arrival here and can thoroughly appreciate it after our tramp. Do you all remember the 15^th of November which is this very day Your little "Sonny" tell Mother is only 23 years old today and feels about 18. I received your letter as a birthday present this morning and could not have been more pleased with any thing. in the evening there was a concert given for my benefit and we had a jolly time all round ending up with hot coffee In the afternoon Gen. Foster inspected our Reg^t and paid it many flattering compliments in regard to its recent achievement and endurance, also for the gallant repulse and defeat of the rebels engaged. I had an opportunity to speak to the Gen. personally / as the Color Guard on inspection are advanced before the whole Reg^t. So as I am acting Color Sargeant and had the colors of Mass. in my hand he came directly to me and laid his hands on the silken folds remarking that it was a magnificent banner then he wished to examine my knap-sack and asked me if I thought I could carry it on a days march I told him most certainly. then he told me never to put damp clothing in my knapsack as it was the most unhealthy thing to do. after feeling of the contents he went along the line examining wherever he choose Gen. Foster is very pleasant and commands the warmest feeling of all the boys here. Just at this point rushed in the 44^th postman and says the mail closes in ten minutes so I must close sooner than intended as we expected until Monday to finish our letters in I'll write more soon. Tell Mother have just received her letter and was delighted to hear from her Father's note was also welcome.

 

Give my love to all at home, at Newton Place Isaac Almi and all—tell all to write soon, girls and boys and I'll answer the first chance

Elmar. /

 

 

In my bunk at Newbern Nov. 17^th 1862

Dear father

                        I am sitting in my bunk which is about as high as my old one at Readville but is much wider and consequently much more comfortable, with four or five other boys round me with their writing materials making an attempt to write home for it is quite an attempt just now as two fellows are trying to disengage our attention from our paper to listen to their nonsense. I have just warned them to "get out" or look out for boots in the rear. there is one bunk over mine which makes three in the tier. I occupy the centre one with a window just at my head Charlie Demeritt, Page, and I are together as usual. Charlie D. and F. Jackson next beside and Charlie Ewer and Littlefield next beyond them. All in centre bunks which are preferable although you do get trod upon by occupants of upper gallery. It is not uncommon to receive a fellows foot in your soup or dipper of coffee while he is attempting to ascend or descend to his lofty abode. it's all right if at night he puts his long limbs in your face and eyes when he is called in the darkness to outside duties or / when one is comfortably enjoying his evening's repast to receive a mug of coffee or dish of soup on ones head or good clothes much to the amusement of all around who have been through a like experience. We having upon our late expedition left our woolen blankets at Washington N.C. the cool nights especially toward morning make us turn from side to side in search of ones accumstomed and long wished for comforters—they have been sent for today and will probably reach us this week when we shall sleep more comfortable. You will see by two letters previous that I have related all my experience that can be told on paper. I shall never forget my first experience in travelling through the woods etc. of N.C. such a tract of country is worthless to look upon and almost as worthless to cultivate only sweet potatoes in small quantities are raised here Corn such as we would not look at comes up in the yellow soil. when it is muddy here it is generally over your boots and sticks like so much wax Negroes are as thick and lay round like so many rocks and we all think the Niggers played out, and we are fighting for / this. we find out down here that the 'Niggers live high while we work and die'. I have a contraband named America who followed us on our march here from Hamilton who makes himself useful washing Page and mine's dishes. he is smart for a 'shady' Yesterday attended church in Co A room singing and reading scripture with some remarks from our Chaplain Hall constituted our service It rained hard all day and most of us layed round in our bunks writing to friends. I have written to only 66 Franklin St so far and shall write often Please write how you all prosper at 66 and give my kind regards to all in the store and tell them to write me. much love to all at home

Elmar

 

Monday morning—Today has cleared off and is beautiful warm summer day. roses are in full bloom while you had a sprinkling of sleighing I believe. I don't like the climate here the evenings especially are damp and foggy. A great many fellows begin to feel the effects of the unhealthy climate but I don't and hope I will not—if care will prevent. You will hear all about our skirmish / in other letters. we had no chance but to stand and fire which we did as cool as cucumbers I was astonished at myself. it is lucky we stood and layed as we did for our height and breadth were well marked out in many bullets in the neighboring trees. it is all over and we may congratulate our selves on our providential escape, officers and all judging it a hairbreadth one. At the time the bullets were flying I didn't in the least feel they would strike me nor have I ever felt I should be shot—but no one can tell but One and in him I am willing to trust all and I know you all are at home. We are now going to have a Regimental drill and as the Colors have to be on hand in that drill I must close by again enclosing my entire love to all at home and yourself

 

Your aff. Son

 Elmar

 

The mail leaves here tonight                                                                         

 

 

Camp Stevenson

Newbern Nov 20^th 1862.

Dear Mother

                        It is just one month ago this morning since we left taking a parting look at Boston and its well remembered harbor, and our time has been well employed I assure you and as you may judge by previous accounts of our proceedings out in these worthless regions I wouldn't give Boston Frog Pond for the whole of North Carolina. Our daily programme is to arise at 6.30 wash and brush up Breakfast at 7 Drill from 8 to 10 and from 11 to 12 then comes dinner and drill from 1.30 to 2.30 and Regimental drill from 3 to 4 and dress parade at 5 when it is nearly dark and the dew falls like rain and we rush for our overcoats the weather through the day obliging us to go in shirt sleeves but variety is the spice of life you know

 

You see there is little time to write home for besides the above there is an "on guard" a whole day and night at a time about twice in a week But your 'sonny' by his position on the color guard is shown a respect due to his honorable situation and has all the long long day / to himself to think of you and home. his duties here are to appear from 3 to 4 PM in the Reg^t drill with the colors, so one hour a day is all I have to be on duty and the remainder can do and go as I please. you may think I could write oftener this being the case but you must remember that news in camp is as scarce as good living there. I often while laying in my bunk think of you sewing, darning or "contriving something" at the dining room table, and perhaps thinking of me at the same time, while Father in his comfortable old rocking chair asks Emma to bring him the small chair for his feet and with the evening paper before him proceeds most leisurely to adjust his eyeglasses settles himself a little lower for the right shade of light on the paper and then I can think of nothing more natural than my Pa. Emma sits near with a new novel and after an hour's perusal of its some 300 pages accompanies Eliza, who has just finished her hard studying, to the room I know so well so near my well remembered cot where tired nature seeks balmy sleep and why / shouldn't it on such nice soft beds?! Thursday (today 20^th) is quite warm and we are in shirt sleeves trying to keep cool. two hours ago (it is now 10 o'clock it was clear and bright now it is raining as it knows how to rain here in Newbern and that is in pails full at a time and then prepare for mud over your boots and blacking is at a discount for a few days The boys at this time take to their bunks some have a sing some a discussion others play euchre or write home. I am sitting this time in the Sergeant's Room while from outside comes the hum of the different parties. While I'm now writing tell Emma Charlie Demerritt comes from playing euchre and asks me to remember him to her in my next letter. I should be happy to write more but think of nothing—Oh yes Gen. Foster came into Co. D. room yesterday when all except myself were on dress parade we talked about ten minutes on our quarters etc he leaving with me certain regulations. He asked me if I liked the army. I told him I did. He is splendid as the girls used to say and so say I. I hope he will want an aid soon and send for me /

Mother just eat a slice of roast turkey for me on the 27^th three or four pieces of pumpkin pie and everything that is good you know, and remember me to our regular thanksgiving party each and all. tell them I shall see them all about 2 o'clock Thursday seated round the table looking natural as ever and eating quite as much Mary Manly will hardly be able to be present so I will have that to console me in my position. you better believe if there is a turkey within walking distance of camp it will not want for a purchaser or destroyer I would like to sit beside you on that day and eat one good dinner, but as I cannot give my love to all accept much for home and you and tell all my friends to write me as a substantial evidence that I am not quite forgotten in Old Boston—By the way where do you spend Thanksgiving this year at home I guess and the rest with you. Rumors say that this place is to be made the greatest military station in the south and the quantity of barrack erecting speak favorably for accommodations for 100000 troops / and transportation for troops to all quarters is unsurpassed in this southern mud hole. At present from morn until night we hear nothing but the drum and bugle call and the military order and what shall we hear with such a nation of soldiers round us—'I'm bound to be a soldier in the Army' which I used to sing so often has really come to pass. I can't say but what I feel better in this position than I dreamed I should and have not the least fault to find as far as duty is concerned but might in relation to the eatable line however that is passable. Don't forget to write every mail and I'll do my duty as well. again love to all your aff Son

                        Elmar

 

Direct everything to Camp Stevenson Co. D

44^th Reg^t

            Newbern

                        N.C.

 

Tell Sid and George to write me and I'll do the same

 

 

Camp Stevenson

Nov 22^nd 1862

"Home" I write again to let you know all is well at Newbern and that the mail closes at seven this is written at four after mutual congratulations at not having any drill, this and every Saturday is our general cleaning and washing day. We formed a Musical and Dramatic Club in Co. D. last evening and expect to cultivate our talents in those directions

How do you all do at home. Send me every day some paper and the Sunday Herald every week. Papers you cannot send too often When you send a box send preserves and sardines as cake pies etc all spoil before reaching here put in a tin box and that inside a light wooden one and don't send a large one. put in if nothing else some good books to read Maga^s and such. I have plenty of time to read and nothing to read I would write more but have nothing to write except our Mess have a Thanksgiving dinner on hand for us and we expect a grand sit down. I think I have the mess of Co. D. containing as it does / the best musical and collegiate talent in the Co. One of my mess has been appointed assistant Chaplain and Post Master but still remains with us as usual. Thanksgiving day we expect to have a Regimental game of foot-ball. the boys all say I am growing fat I don't see what upon—Hard tack and coffee would not fat a hog and I am as ravenous as one sometimes for 'sussin to eat' What's a seed-cake? What's a cracker?—The cracker here if you once get your teeth in you have as a reward for your effort the headache. this is all tonight Love to one and all and don't forget the papers and write oftener than you want to to your loving son and brother

Elmar

 

 

Camp Stevenson

Nov 23^rd

Dear Mother

                        Having written home yesterday by a mail which left early this morning I shall have little or nothing to say in this one which will go tomorrow early. Knowing "little or nothing" / would be received with pleasure by me I think a similar thought for you. This is the way the mails go here all at once and few and far between. Hain't heard from home since your letter reached me but as there is a steamer expected with a mail tonight I shall be much disappointed if it contains nothing for me from Boston. I received a letter from Charlie Clapp dated Oct 31^st two days ago and answered it immediately as it had been on the road nearly a month having been shipwrecked on its passage here. Last eve was the first entertainment of our Musical and Dramatic Club and passed off quite brilliantly. First was discussed the question "Was the Emancipation Act of President Lincoln politic?" after an hour spirited discussion on both sides a voice of the company was called for and came to the conclusion it was politic Next came a song from all hands then two declamations followed by a round of songs from our 44^th Reg^t Song Book. Sat. eve we hold our club meeting which occupies two hours or more and not only designed for our mutual improvement but also for our / enjoyment and pleasure. It really brings us back to old Boston school days to hear some of the good declamations, and the talent is good in that line. Sunday morning our rifles are inspected to see that they are kept bright and clean and they are obliged to shine like 'dandy Jim'. afterwards our barracks are inspected and must come up to the Surgeons tasty eye and smell. This is the first really cold morning we have had and so have a fire in the fire place to make us comfortable and as it blazes and crackles it reminds one of home and its cosey chimney corners, not of furnace heat and dead air of sitting rooms and parlors of Boston though I wouldn't mind being in one of them. All the boys are sitting round today writing home. I'm sitting in the bunk under mine with my feet and writing stool in passageway and four others so near me we don't mind whose inkstand we use and scarcely whose paper. I imagined you all asleep when I rose this morning and eating breakfast while our inspection was taking place at eight o'clock Then the Sunday Herald and Gazette boys I could almost see / and hear. then later I could see you all wending your way down Washington to School street and listening to one of Mr Miners eloquent appeals for God and our country. Please remember me to Mr Miner and Dr Taylor and tell them we often speak and think of the happy hours spent under their direction and appreciate now more than ever their benefit to us There are several School boys in my Co. you know and we get together often and talk over old associations and scenes in School St

 

Please send (as I said before) newspapers as often as possible and as reading matter is very scarce they are always welcome and please send Herald and Gazette Sundays This is all today remember me to every body Aunt Abbie Uncle Manly Sid and Helen Mary Bert & Nessie Isaac Almi Mrs Blahe Charlie Mr & Mrs Bemis and Wightman, Henry Joe & Stella and all the farm folks And love especially to father Emma and yourself

from Elmar /

 

Tell all to write me                                                                             

 

 

Nov 26^th 1862

Dear all at No. 8—

                                    They say we are off on another time soon so write quick and I will do the same Can't send or write letters when we are marching you see and that is why you have not heard oftener from your aff. son & brother

Elmar

 

 

Camp Stevenson Nov 30^th

Dear Mother Father & Sister

                                                I wrote you several letters a week ago supposing the mail would go at the time stated, but it seems the steamer which was to have taken the mail north was ordered to report at Plymouth N.C. and only returned today and we have but a few hours notice in which to write before she sails again

It is now after 7 and the mail closes at 8 PM Since my last our Thanksgiving day has passed I shall not here have time to describe how we spent it but will in my next we had a jolly time eating turkey etc. playing ball in PM and dancing in the evening. There are rumors here / now of another expedition setting forth to accomplish some project of our Generals but nothing definite is known and I think our going very doubtful

 

Where and how did you all spend Thanksgiving For a week beforehand our boys were busy buying up and foraging all the turkeys ducks geese and chickens procurable and the noise of said bipeds reminded one forcibly of our New England farms. the night before the greatest efforts of our cooks were called into play and the result was such as to promise a Boston Thanksgiving even here in Newbern. about a dozen of us myself included dined by invitation at the Gaston House down town where we had everything to eat desirable about 50 officers were in the room with us. the dance in the evening reminded me of the gay times at Minot Hall though there were no familiar "ladies fairs". I would gladly write more now but having no time will send full account in my next until then remember me with love to all as ever your loving son and brother

Elmar /

 

 

Camp Stevenson

Newbern Dec 1^st

Dear Mother

                        We are all lively here and as well as this climate will permit us to be and I don't see how our boys stand this God forsaken country as well as they do. Today the first of Dec is a calm and beautiful spring day the sun shining so warmly that your coat instinctively leaves your back for a shady retreat in the bunk and the drilling squads appear in shirt sleeves but tonight by five o'clock it will begin to grow foggy and damp from the adjacent swamps and such an atmosphere is almost a poison for us to inhale and stiffens our bones to an uncomfortable degree most perceptible when we first attempt our morning toilet We expected the Merrimac with troops two or three days ago but as they seldom if ever brought a mail before we didn't expect it this time. we always make a rush for the Boston papers however and while thus engaged discovered there was a mail for the 44^th which created intense excitement among those at the depot which luckily happened to be few as the Reg^t from Beaufort by cars did not reach here until ten at night / and as taps sound at eight we were all bunked in but as soon as we heard the cheering aboard the train we turned out to see the fun and make coffee for the new arrivals and dispatched it with ourselves to the scene of action. There is always such a 'row' to hear and see everybody and everything from Boston "at once" that you scarcely know whether you are stepping on your own feet or not and go off quite content if you can secure a half of a Boston paper even to read and digest all home news in your own bunk. When the mail reached camp about eleven most of the officers were asleep but at the cry "Mail from Boston" all were up in shirt night caps and slippers. The Col and all the officers were down on their knees sorting the letters and Thad Page waiting for those of Co. D. as it would some time before they would be ready for distribution and thinking it very doubtful if I received any I 'turned in' for a snooze and was almost off when Thad came calling in my ears, "Elmar Elmar a letter for you" the others will not have theirs until morning as the sonorous sounds prove them to be in the land of / dreams. I put mine in the pocket of my blouse thinking to keep it as a treat for the morning but after turning from one side to the other for more than an hour I could stand it no longer and with Pages slippers and the end of candle left from the evening's 'burn' I steered in the dark for the fire place. stepping carefully over two ebony forms asleep on either side I contrived to light the piece of candle and place it in one corner of the log so it would appear as a light from the fire place to those in and outside the barracks for they allow no lights after eight oclock. I was not long in opening my letter which from the outside I judged to be from Emma but the contents told me a different though not less pleasing fact. I don't believe you can be as glad as I am to receive letters if you are I can imagine just how you run it over to take in the whole almost at once and then read every word carefully for every sentence is so good and will bear even a third reading. Our blankets having arrived we sleep as warm and comfortable as possible and don't need now your offer of blankets and loving hands to tuck them in. I did / take an extra pair of socks on the last march but was constantly in some water which really did not feel uncomfortable as we were at a fever heat. Thad & Billy Page Carter Charlie Demeritt Burrage Capen and Ned Wright are all well and think it strange their folks did not receive their letters when you received mine as they were mailed but I don't believe sent with mine though I cannot account for it. I have not received Emmas letter you speak of but as a mail is due here today from N.Y. I probably shall receive it on that route yours came here direct from Boston and so sooner than those going to N.Y. first I will answer Emma's as soon as received I can imagine you at just such a supper as you describe to me in your letter and only wish it was in reality in place of imagination—but we live quite decently now and it begins to assume the Readville style of fare, with a Gaston House dinner now and then and what nic-nacks we purchase of the suttlers we shall manage to get along the six months quite comfortably if they don't keep stretching our legs by those murderous tramps we are / perfectly willing to fight but don't appreciate running after the enemy such abominable distances and through such obstacles as N.C. presents Expect some movement is up as parts of regiments have been sent to various places within a few days and no mails have been allowed to go and I don't know when you will receive this they send mails from here when they please I have not seen anything of Ansel's friend Mr Hunt or my box under his care, but know his son who is here in the suttlers tent and he says I shall get it all right through him he wishes to be remembered to Ansel and tell him he belongs to Co. D. ball club and that Elmar knocks just such rousing licks as Gardner of the Light foot Club of Dorchester used to and ask him if he ever writes to Mary now. The 44^th box per Merrimac has not been taken from her as yet and it may be two days before we get it as it takes a great while for a certain class of people and things to move here in the right direction. I shall expect quite a pleasure if not a feast upon opening said boxes and shall prize the contents even if spoilt / as coming from one whose whole interest and thought has always been to please her son. I wrote you a few days ago how we spent Thanksgiving in feasting and jollifications. Big dinner at the Gaston House, ball playing sermon, & dancing to end up with with music to suit the most lively. in all it was a regular N.E. time by Boston boys in Dixie. The boys drill every day as usual and I take my hours exercise with the colors in Battalion drill unless some move is made. soon the rainy season sets in and wind and rain rules everything even Generals who have little chance even if they have the will to move. Yesterday (Sunday) we had our regular weekly inspection which we much dislike as a general "housecleaning" of everything is necessary and no slight of duty is permitted to escape without a severe reprimand. at eleven o'clock we hold our church services and as we have formed a select choir of voices from each company under the lead of Charlie Ewer they form a quarter before eleven and as your sonny has received a special invite to assist he of course goes in / heart and hand there are about 100 in the choir and they do sing finely. the pilot of the Merrimac says he will take this and mail it in Boston so I will stop in the middle of my letter and end next time. Love to all and Fanny "if you think proper"

Your son            Elmar

 

 

Camp Stevenson Dec 1^st

Dear Father

                        I closed Mother's letter quite hastily as the pilot offered to take any letters which might be ready and I accepted his offer as no regular mail left except what the officers are kind enough to take personally, and I did not think I should have another chance but he left word any letters left at the Gaston House before 8 P.M. he would take, also Rev. Chas. Barnard is here Frank Barnards father and he kindly offers to take home all letters intrusted to his charge so I reckon this will be in your hands by Saturday sure. I was going to write Mother an elegant long letter but my ideas were all put to flight by the chance of sending and knew she would rather receive a little than nothing /

I have not received Emma's letter yet as the steamer was disabled and put into Portland for repairs she will reach here the 4^th I have received no letter from you as yet except the short note in my first nor any from #66 tell them all to write and I'll answer and to send me papers for they are so scarce here there is not one to a dozen boys so don't forget the papers and still less the letters. How do you get along in the office now I hope you don't work too hard or get too tired for I think of you often and if I did right to leave you as I did as for ease comfort and health I as well as others look at home as the most enticeing but when duty and a country calls one way and business another I can in a minute decide as I did between them and rank myself even if the consequences are fatal among those who would for their country's sake do and dare all. You know as well as I that I should never have felt like showing myself in the streets of Boston knowing and feeling my place was not there but among those who knowing their country was in danger leaped to her defence. I have not written it / before but can't help thinking how thankful I am to have enlisted to do my duty as it calls me in all times and places and if it is my lot to return to Boston with the 44^th it will be one of the happiest days in my life knowing that for once I have done my duty to my country which ought to be first in every Yankee's heart and shall have the consolation of looking back to those nine months as the brightest page of my existence, with the wish to hear from the whole of you as often as possible telling me all the news etc. I remain Your afft.

Son Elmar

 

Father—I didn't mean to write such a sober letter to you but will give you something quite different next time I happen to feel a little like having a skirmish this P.M. and could just now fight with the 44^th like a tiger can't account for feelings out south

 

Camp Stevenson Dec 5

Dear Sister Emma

                                    The last letter I wrote home was dated the 2^nd and delivered personally to Rev. Chas. / Barnard who left here on the 3^rd for Boston. I had a short conversation with him he remembered me as I did him in connection with our stay at West Newton he appeared quite glad to see us and we were happy to look upon his genial countenance which reminded us of home more than anything since we left. you can't imagine how good it seems to see a familiar face and a citizens dress way off here in Newbern. As I have already written home an account of our Thanksgiving festivities I will not here repeat it as you have read it before. the dancing in the evening reminded us particularly of home and the young ladies more than anything we have undertaken since the Boston Sociables. The barrack where we had our dance is the one marked F and is next to ours round the corner as you can see by referring to the sketch I sent home The Qr Masters dep^t which occupied this room since our arrival here for want of room in their building was entirely removed to their new building in the rear after their moving out the room was as empty as nothing so Co F. to whom it really belongs and who have been obliged to camp in tents all the time previous, spread a long table through the center and in the P.M. had their 'spread' after which / the hall was cleared. we trimmed it with holly branches stacked muskets in each corner had the American flag at either end and with a few drums stood round it presented a tasty and military aspect I bet we had as good a time dancing round that hall in our shirt sleeves as did the brilliant assemblage at the Prince of Wales ball at Boston Theatre or those at Minot Hall in their white kids patent leathers etc. Billy Page and I polka^d together we did have a spendid time and I made my mark upon more than one (foot). since that night Co F which is Ned W— company have occupied their barracks which must be a luxery after being in tents so long and having been drowned out several times into the bargain. Co. F. is the color company and the color Guard being attached to it messes with them only drawing their rations however as the 'Colors' mess together eight jolly boys. Being thus together in our recent march I became acquainted with those of Co. F. I did not know before and foraged and cooked with them. Ned Wright during all the march was in speaking distance of me and we compared our present selves and surroundings with the peaceful paths we trod on the 'pave' in / Boston and thought if it was not for our country we would sell out at lowest market price. Ned stood the march with the best of us, but it was a severe trial and we don't sigh for a repitition of it. Since our late skirmish and march the troops received their 'reward of merit' for bravery and courage and Co D for their part have been promoted two posts higher in the regimental ranks and now are the second company from the right and head of the Regiment this we consider a great honor and shall always try to keep it and strike for more at the next opportunity. In a Reg^t the first post of honor is in the Color Guard and in the first Co. on the right the second place is on the left and the third the center or Color Co. The Color Guard will always occupy the same post and are attached to the Color Co. be that which it may. Co. F the former one has been promoted one degree and now is the left company or last in the line but second in rank it is a hard place to march in as they have all the ground to make up lost by each member of the regiment. for instance if the first Co. in the regt halts on a march it will be perhaps 10 minutes before the last company can close up its distance and so much time is lost for rest which counts greatly on a long march Co. C is the Color Co. now Co D having taken / its former place in line I like this change much for Co F. officers are not of the most even temper and don't begin to carry the respect courage or the affection of the boys as do the officers of Co. C. Capt. Lombard and Lieuts Lombard & Cunningham Briggs is detached on Signal service. The members of the Color Guard are with their respective Comps when at home in Newbern when on the march with Co. C.

 

Always direct anything for me care of Capt Sullivan Co D and it will come straight

 

[diagram]

New Regimental

Line

Capt                Sullivan     Richardson       Lombard

Richardson                                                  Position

                                                                Color Guard

Old Line as we

H         C         B         I           F          D         B         K         G         A   .          

left Boston

 

You see by this new position I don't have my company right beside me as before and that is all I am sorry for in the new line but I had rather fight under Capt Lombard for no one officer behaved as bravely as he did and his name is praised by all. We have a band started by members of the Regiment and as some of them have played in bands before I expect some quite decent music soon the brass instruments were captured from a N.C. Reg^t are silver mounted and sound well. it will add much to our entertainment in this dreary wilderness. We have been expecting a mail here the last twenty four hours and it will probably be a double one. it is overdue and as it is storming here today it is delayed outside and I shall get your letter / letter written before Mothers about the other box. The small box per Merrimac was received the 3^rd instant about 8 P.M. as one of the boys called out "a box for Corp. Messinger a general rush was made for my bunk and they piled up round me so thickly I could hardly open it. they all exhibited as much interest and anxiety as myself and clamored loudly for me to hurry up I teased them awhile for sport and then finally let them look upon the mince pies cake sardines lemons apples nuts napkins salve etc etc if their mouths did not water mine did. Everything came right side up and looked and tasted as fresh as though sent from just across the street instead of way from "Home sweet Home". the pie marked for Ned together with like proportion of contents and an extra napkin were duly forwarded and as duly appreciated and with many thanks to you and mother for the substantial remembrance Ned wished to be remembered to you all I found your love as well as Fanny's enclosed accept an equal share in them forward Fanny's to her and tell her that as she owes me a letter to show her love by writing and thus make her account balance as far as letters are concerned and I will repay with interest. I found Ned in his bunk with his chum Johnson up to something I could not tell what / I gave him pie etc. with Fanny's love and you have had the result previously stated. After assuring him I had not robbed myself as he feared I took my leave amid a shower of thanks to taste myself of home luxeries in which I was not disappointed nor ever have been in that respect if I remember rightly. Tell Mother the wash leather was just what I wanted to rub up the brass on my rifle with and none of the other things will come amiss out here. If you get another chance to send a box send Wenthorns new book The Saddle & the Canoe I believe and a number of other books and magazines Send papers as often and as many as you can. About twenty five of our Regt none from my company and those who were on the sick list on the last march have been sent about 5 miles from here to garrison a block house for the remainder of their nine months among them is Mary Jone's Dyer who hasn't a very pleasant prospect ahead I should say he has been made a private instead of Corp. These boys will not see the 44^th again until they meet in Boston I would gladly write more but have just learned that the mail closes soon so shall have to bid you goodnight with much love to you and all goodnight again pleasant dreams to all from your loving brother

Elmar /

 

 

Newbern Dec 6^th

Dear Father—It has happened just as I expected as regards the mails I mailed a letter to Emma last night and afterwards learned a mail from the north had arrived with 30 or more bags and two for our Reg^t It took so long to sort them we did not receive our letters until nearly ten this morning then I received yours of the 15^th Emmas of 15^th & 18^th one from Sid and one from Charlie Clapp it was a treat I assure you I could have been no happier than while perusing those friendly lines from home. Yours was the first letter I have had from you and you don't know how natural and good your writing seemed to me and how pleasant it was to hear from #66 and its affairs Am so glad to hear you are getting along so finely and that business prospects are so good. Tell Sid I will write him next mail shall not have time today as the mail closes immediately and I have hardly time to write this as we received but an hours notice I will endeavor to write every mail and make use of every private conveyance so you can hear from me if only a few lines for I know how much I appreciate that and do tell them all to write often and long I suppose you leave all local matter etc for Emma to write and so feel as if you had nothing left to write upon, nevertheless write / if only a page and enclose some newpaper bits the last were much appreciated and have to pass from hand to hand and fill a good many hearts with pleasure besides my own Send also Newspapers. The Sutler Hunt schooner will be here in a day or two and I shall receive another 'soldiers joy a thanksgiving from home' in the small box received everything was in perfect order and was well distributed and enjoyed in my mess.The sardines opened today and with lemons crackers etc make a rich meal and put 'salt horse' for the present out in the cold. Tell Emma I don't forget tomorrow the 7^th is her birthday and wish her many more and those when her brother can be with her and enjoy the day with some token or mark of affection. I send my bill of fare and you will see I did not miss a good dinner. The warm days and bright and cold nights now and are enjoyed by us all. As the moon reflects its silver light across the watery bosom of the Neuse the effect is so enchanting that one forgets he is far far from home. But the 'sunny' south as a whole is played out as I'll write you from time to time. Give my love to Mother Emma & all and tell them Burrage Pages and all are well

 

from your affectionate son

Elmar /

 

 

Camp Stevenson Dec. 23^rd 1862

Dear Home—I have just arrived that is just come to a sense of feeling that I am once again at home in Newbern after a sojourn in the wilderness of ten days and nights experiencing as usual the soldiers gay ? life and fare. I really don't know where to commence to write for your eager eyes to read and hence to know the varied experiences of those ten days but I will try and do my best. Thursday morning 11^th found us at 4 oclock doing our best to get all our soldiers wardrobe etc etc into boxes and bags to be forwarded to some unknown spot each having the corporals name and mess for future recognition. after taking our knapsacks with an extra shirt pair of stockings towel and soap and strapping our rubber and woollen blankets on said knapsack you may imagine we had a load especially for a 150 miles march well after eating a few mouthfuls and washing it down with dishwater coffee we slung knapsack and rifle on shoulder and were in regimental line clad in all necessary equipments for a tramp on the road of adventure—we were bearing loads nearly 250 lbs in weight including five days rations and cartridges etc etc

 

 

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[second document]

 

Camp Stevenson Dec 23^d 1862

Dear Home

                        I have just arrived, that is, just come to a sense of feeling that I am once again in "my home in Newbern" after a sojourn in the wilderness of ten days & nights experiencing as usual the soldiers gay(?) life and fare. I really dont know where to commence to write for your eager eyes to read, and hence to know the varied panorama of that ten days scenes through thick and thin, but I will try and give you a slight sketch of our last expedition in N.C.

Thursday morning 11^th inst at 4 o'clk found us up and doing our [?] to put all our soldiers wardrobe &c &c into boxes and bags to be forwarded to some unknown spot in the vast wilderness, each having the corporal's name & mess for future claims and recognition. After taking our knapsacks with an extra shirt, pair of stockings, towel and soap, rolling our woolen and rubber blanket together and strapping them upon the top of said knapsack, you may think that we had a load and rightly too, especially for a 150 mile march. Well taking a mouthful of hard tack and another of salt horse washed down well by "dishwater coffee" extended to the last degree making it "coffee without" we soon flung knapsacks and with rifles at the shoulder were standing in regimental line clad in overcoats, mittens and all the equipments necessary for a soldiers life in tramp on the road of adventure. When thus thoroughly equip^d with knapsacks & contents, blankets, haversack full of hardtack & salt horse for 5 days rations on the road, cartridge box full of powder & bullets (60 rounds) canteen for water, belt with cap box and bayonet sheath attached as well as tin dipper, knife & fork, you see a human pack horse weighing alltogether about 250#s / ready to be moved forward on the double quick, or used as a machine rather than as a man of feeling in Uncle Sam's service. The "Colors" having been handed to us by the Col. with necessary instructions we were soon marching away from our dear old barracks inspired by the musical strains from one newly organized 44^th Brass Band who stood at the corner of the barracks (as they were left behind to practice music) and played us out of sight. From four in the morning till nearly 11 o'clk we were forming the grand expedition of about 20,000 men into line comprising four brigades and consisting of 23 regiments infantry 50 pieces of artillery cavalry &c &c baggage train &c &c when in one unbroken line it was ten miles in length. Some of the regiments were old ones from near Richmond and were in the 7 days fight at that place they were the 92, 96, 85 N.Y. & 85, 101, 103 Penn with Gen Wessells, Gen Foster being commander in chief and Gen Stevenson of our Brigade consisting of the 44^th & 24^th Mass 10^th Conn & 5^th R.I. Our Brigade seemed to be the favorite and notwithstanding the old fighting regiments from near Richmond we did as you will see the hardest fighting and lost the most men in our Brigade. To proceed—the first day we marched 15 miles through our usual mud and water N.C. roads and camped "a la cornfield style" upon the frozen ground with woolen & rubber blankets spread. It was rather cool to be sure, but one does not notice it much now after all. Our camping ground is always chosen in open fields and the first thing we seize upon are the surrounding rail fences and dead trees for camp fires, for boiling our coffee which we carry in little bags, it being previously mixed with sugar and each man boils his ration as he likes and as often, in his tin dipper same as those we had at Readville. In order to have a good fire all night we have to make collect quite a pile of fuel, for we use fire instead of hot bricks & hot water to keep our feet dry & warm / from opp elements. Sometimes the rails have to be brought a half a mile or so then being so many of us (20,000) it takes a tremendous wood-pile to warm & feed us. This was the case the first night and although we were all pretty well "played out" when we saw the rails disappearing ahead of us from the fences those in front of the company would hand their rifles back to the last ones, and then they would shoulder two or three rails and the remainder the muskets. You may imagine what a novel sight we would present regiment after regiment filing thus equip^d into the camping ground half rifles & half rails. Regular Rail splitters from the "old Block" and for the "old Block", "Old Abe" Lincoln.

 

Well—coffee boiled, hard tack cracked, salt horse "chawed", and then blankets spread (after collecting, if there should happen to be near such dry grass & leaves as would make us a "feather bed") we would with much talk laugh and jest soon find ourselves in that state which is most pleasant to tired nature—balmy sleep covering head, eyes & all with both blankets to keep the dew & frost out. We have a guard all night to watch our Colors and keep the fire burning and see that we dont burn, appointed hourly by the Co^l so every care is off our mind. The enemy we scarcely think of we leave that to the picket guard which would warn us in good time.

 

This expedition is much more important than the last and occupies in camping as much ground as elephant versus mouse comparing last camps with these. The first Brigade starts at four in the morning and reaches camp two hours sooner at night than we, as we start about 7 o'clk and are always some miles in length which we have to travel over in coming at night into camp. When in camp all together we take up five miles of road / side & fields and as about one fire is built by six persons or more you cannot imagine the grandeur of such a camping scene at night with each at his fire which burns brilliantly and with the meighboring thousands sheds a flood of light and blaze upon all around, as well as upon the clouds above and puts into shade for effect the best genius ever displayed for fire works or like concerns in our home matters & displays. They really appear like so many immense stars and as the ground is "up & down" here as elsewhere, the light & shade contract and blend with an effect which cannot be appreciated unless seen in "our light" which excels the "biggest" sight I ever witnessed.

 

Each morning finds us again at our hard tack & coffee and then we are soon marching along—which is the "rough" of a soldiers life. I had rather position fight once a day at Newbern than travel ten miles in heavy marching order. Our trials, sufferings &c &c sore heels & toes lame backs & shins were full as numerous on our late march and in fact they didn't stand this as well as the other march as then they were fresh and new, but at present the climate seems to have affected many of them and consequently affected their endurance on this march. The mud was not quite so thick but there was plenty of water to wade through, sometimes for a half a mile straight along we would ford along through the marsh, and mornings the ground being frozen it would feel rather tough to our tender feet. Nevertheless throughout the whole march every morning would find us ready for a new start. we would commence a little lame and stiff at first but after travelling 8 or 10 miles we would get limbered up and then "go it" all day till we dropt at night into camp and our blankets to sleep off the days fatigue and refresh our mind and spirits if possible with dreams of home, and once or twice upon waking I almost thought I had been there so fresh was my recollection of every nook & corner in that home. /

 

Friday the 12 inst and the second day on the road to Kingston (for we soon found out we were bound for that place) we marched about 15 miles again. about noon we had just halted for a lunch and were pleasantly thinking of at least a short halt, when cannon were heard ahead and we were ordered "Forward" and forward we went to find laying by the road side three or four dead "rebs" who were out "on picket" and couldn't skedaddle fast enough to escape the enemy shot of the Burnside rifles of our cavalry men. I dont know why it is but the sight of a dead rebel hasn't the least effect upon me and I dont mean it shall for since that day I have had abundant opportunity to test my courage upon the dead of both sides and I must say Preserve me from such another bloody sight courage or no courage. I tell you about it I guess as nothing happened more on Friday and we kept on Saturday morning till about 11 o'clk when we came upon about a thousand "rebs" who skedaddle across a long bridge at our first sight and had the courage however to burn it after them, so they got themselves out of hot water by putting us into cold by delaying us two hours and more to rebuild said bridge. When finished we cross^d and marched our best to capture the rascals. Encamped Saturday night about six miles from Kingston and made preparations for the coming battle on the morrow for Sunday our first battle was upon, and as "Fortune" would have our second should come likewise the same day, so Sunday morning all of us pretty well marched to pieces & stiff limbered ourselves for "life or death", neither of us knew which & but a few under their present state of feeling cared less. I think, as for me I dont think I stopp^d to think but felt more like myself than ever since starting when the artillery opened fire upon / the "Rebs" for then all was excitement and when under excitement one forgets fatigue, sore heels, &c &c and almost all he thinks of is a shot at the enemy. The artillery after firing about fifteen minutes were ordered forward and our Brigade ordered to support them the 9^th N.J. Reg^t acting as skirmishers in one direction while the 44^th advanced the right wing of their regiment which just takes me in on the right through a dense swamp thickly wooded with underbrush briars &c &c and the soft pulpy mud reaching clear over my boots and covered my pants black as a coal to the top of my knees, but through we went pulling one boot and leg out of the deep mire one after the other, and all this time taking care that the "Colors" (which we had rolled up to carry through the woods without tearing if possible) were taken through safe & sound. We had hardly entered the swamp when the rebels commenced shelling us from their batteries but forward we went with the 10^th Conn on our very right and the 45^th Reg^t to our left and our 44^th left wing went up a road to meet us when we should have driven the "rebs" out of the swamp where they delight to fight and the only way to get them out, is to drive them out, at the point of the bayonet. In doing this the 10^th Conn & 45^th Reg^t lost more men than we can account for, but as the firing from the rebel side was quite brisk we dont see how so many of our men escaped as only one was wounded, George Howe of Co H. in this engagement the shells and bullets felled the trees over our heads and it was owing to our position in the lowest part of the swamp that we escaped as fortunately as we did. In passng through the last part of the swamp the 10^th Conn came upon and charged & took a masked battery not without severe loss however /

 

We were obliged to pass over many dead bodies of both friend and foe, and upon reaching the end of the swamp we unfurled our Colors and rushed across an open space down a road over several dead "rebs" and formed in line of battle in a cornfield supporting a New York Battery which had just commenced to shell the town of Kingston from this side across the river. We forced the rebels so fast that they in attempting to cross the river over their bridge found that we had captured the last 500 of their number and as one of them with a pitch & tar can in his hand had set fire to the bridge the artillery opened fire upon them while running on the other side and piled the bridge full with their dead and dying. Many of them by the fire were burnt alive by their carelessness and many even drowned by jumping into the river. A truly horrible sight. Our loss in the 44^th was miraculously only one wounded. The 45^th lost about 30 killed and wounded and the 10^th Conn 104 killed & wounded. You can see how great was our preservation from the leaden hail. They didn't succeed in destroying the bridge sufficiently to prevent our passing over it, after laying a few planks over the slightly burnt ones we all pass^d safely into Kingston having captured several cannon & 750 prisoners. here we had a chance to examine the damage done to their breastworks and town by our shells & shot. Equipments of all descriptions lay scattered along in every direction by the road & adjoining fields and the depot and many buildings were shot & torn through & through by our severe fire. Thus ended our Sunday fight although we had some slight skirmishing afterwards just on the other side / of the town, but the "rebs" kept on "skedaddling" and we overtook and captured about six miles out just at dark a number of prisoners and a battery of 2 – 32 pounders and six 12 pounders which were brought back with us to town where we camped Sunday night upon the railroad track. Kingston is one of the best towns I have yet seen in this "Sessia" and laid out with broad streets running at right angles and in the middle of nearly each street was a large heap of cotton left burning by the "rebs"and in one a large lot of corn. But we captured enough corn to feed a million horses and plenty of other unmentionables. Some of the houses were occupied and but a few showed themselves. saw three young ladies of the Southern school I suppose they looked rather demure. Roses were in blossom in the gardens and the ground was hard & frozen. The air dont seem to affect the blossoms here I cant account for it here, nor at Newbern either. Here fresh beef was killed for us and we foraged pork, sugar, molasses and lived high for one night. I can tell you some of the boys captured "photos" of "old & young" from the houses, but my desires dont seem to run in that direction at present. We foraged a lot of apples also & those were quite a treat. Monday morning proceeded on our way towards Whitehall and after marching about 15 miles we camped tired out as usual in our corn field and lay ourselves down to sleep thinking perhaps as we lay on the frozen ground by a warm fire, of the warm fire at home and still warmer friends and of the nice little bed you know just up stairs, where "Sonny" in his little room has slept so soundly night after night and now only wishes he may once again. /

 

On Tuesday morning 16 inst, we arose about six and were soon on a forward march for Whitehall again after proceeding about 5 miles we came across the "Rebs" and they in their usual style "skedaddled" across the river and burnt the bridge before we were enabled to reach it So up we came into line of battle the "Rebs" firing shot & shell from the opp side of the Neuse river, right into our ranks just as we were marching down the road toward the burnt bridge six pound shot struck two of Co A's men (Newcomb & Slocomb) dead. It was done as quick as lightening and they never knew what hit them (poor fellows). These men were two files ahead of my company, but I am attached to the "Color Guard" you know and hence to Co C when on a march and in battle.

 

Well our turn came next again for we were advanced in the very face of their fire and to the water's edge of this side of the Neuse and took our aim and the whole regiment fired a whole volley into their entrenchments then we lay down to load protected by a rail fence somewhat against which the "rebs" bullets fell thick and fast. We as well as they kept up a continual fire for two or more hours during this time we didn't escape unharmed for the rebels had many sharp shooters stationed in the trees opposite and among the first to fall was a Serg named Courtis just 3 files from me in line soon after "Apollo" and next Corp Curtis these three. two were shot dead & the other died soon after and what seems sadder than all the rest, they left them to be buried in the field and you see and scarcely hear more about them than you would about some poor beast which you had known. This seems too bad & it seems it is a true way of doing the right thing according to military rule. /

 

These three were from Co C to which as I have before said I am attached and have known them when they fell. I saw several others carried from the field but couldn't tell who they were at the time. But you little think when I tell you our favorite Charly Ewer my left hand man when in my Co was so dangerously wounded that he was carried off the field as dead. But we were all rejoiced to learn he was not, but is severely wounded. I hope not fatally, it is a doubtful case the surgeon says. But we hope for the best.The ball struck Charlie near the wind pipe (Adams apple) and glanced down across the collar bone into the lungs or near them. He has been unable to speak since, but to day I hear he was able to whisper a few words and is feeling very cheerful & happy hoping to recover soon he didn't expect to at first it seems. Fred Jackson (Charlie Demeritt's bunk mate) was also wounded in the side not seriously however and will be out soon. They are both in the hospital down town in Newbern and hope to join us soon. I afraid should Charlie recover he would hardly be able to do duty in the ranks again. So you see Co C bore its share in the conflict and honored two of "my mess" with wounds & crowned them with glory forever. Corp. Burrage or "Ned" as we call him is my next man on the right in line of battle and we stood right up to it side by side and give the "Rebs" as good as they sent if not better. Tell his Father he's all right and fights and marches bravely and stood all through without a "fall out" It was tough though I tell you I saw many the minute I'd just as lived dropt "you know where" but now its all over, everything is Gay and Happy.

 

But one more sad death has taken place, we found after fighting / another short battle on the following day when we took over a thousand prisoners and paroled them and then returning to where we left our wounded at Whitehall I found that Florence's cousin Noyes who was among the pioneers who go ahead and rebuild the bridges & repair the roads for us to cross &c &c had been wounded and placed there and on our return he was found dead in the hospital from the effect of said wound. It seems Lt. Brown was standing beside him and probably some rebel sharp shooter noticing his rank picked him out and fired just grazing the Lieut shoulder and striking Noyes in the bowels, so they protruded and very little hope was entertained of his recovery. Everything was done for him that skill here could do but i didn't hear of his ever being wounded the first was to me he was dead. I have had many pleasant conversations with him since I've left home and I know of no one who seemed so warm hearted for all at home as well as here, as he and never thought more of returning to home & wife than he. I really feel his loss as a friend and miss his kindly smile as he marched in his Co which is next to the "Color Guard". Ned Burrage has I've just learned has been made Sergeant in place of Sergeant Courtis killed. Mellen & Couty from School St. march just beside me in Co C and some from Davis St. All the "Color Guard" came off without a scratch, not owing to their not being fired into however as the Col. ordered the "Colors" to lie down to evade the hot fire. About every minute from the first, several bullets a minute fired in same line and from the same sharpshooters came whizzing within an inch of our very heads and made us dodge some if you can dodge a bullet I think we must have then. The Lieut beside me has a bullet which / struck within a foot of me and rolled on the ground against a rock. The ground as well as fence and even our knapsacks which were left some distance in the rear received a large share of bullet holes. All those prisoners taken in first day's fight were paroled upon our leaving Kingston which made us provoked enough. miserable looking, grey clothed slouched hat, long horrid sallow faced wolfish & gaunt looking specimens of humanity I ever saw, staring back with mouth wide open with no feeling in them but for blood. bloody work they do. Well, what did these paroled fellows do, but just join their rascal brothers again and we had to fight them over again at Whitehall & Everettsville 6 miles from Goldsboro when we took some of the very same fellows prisoners again whom we had paroled but a few days before. That's what they care for parole. What do we do but parole a thousand more right on the spot. When such things happen it is enough to discourage any army and we didn't feel like showing mercy to anyone for such conduct and mean never to take any more prisoners but make way with them forever. While foraging in the woods two others & myself entered a small shantie in which was a bed and in looking around we discovered under the bed two men whom we ordered to come forth and lo and behold there stood before us two rebel Lieuts who had the "cheek" to ask us what we wanted there! We just told them we would just take them along we guessed, and did so and delivered them to the cavalry to guard while we kept on foraging for our Brigade 20 of us killed that day 60 pigs, 12 oxen, & 15 sheep to say nothing of chickens, ducks, geese &c &c. I acted as Corp of the crowd and directed operations while experienced butchers killed the fresh beef. We had some skirmishing on our way home every day with rebel pickets and shot several. Our 44^th lost in killed 10 men, in wounded 13, total 23. In the whole expedition 500. The last fight the rebs charged

SOURCES