Washington C. Shane Diary, 1862
Eulen
Washington C. Shane
Breckinridge
Dallas Co
Texas
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Thursday February 20th 1862
After doing all in my power towards settleing up Pa's business and despairing of seeing him here soon I concluded to wait no longer but to enter the service of my country and battle in its defence
The foe in myriads threaten to overrun our fair "Sunny South" His vandal hordes already polute our soil with their unhallowed tread while others in large numbers threaten invasion at other points. their wanton depredations and heartless cruelties perpetrated upon the property and persons of the "Rebels" and their sympathisers as they denominate all Patriots
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equal if not surpass those of barbarous Heathen Nations. What is the fate of those I left at home, Father, Mother Sister and Brothers God knows, I dont. I trust in him they are not suffering The torture of mind I have passed through in the last few months in regard to them is more than I can describe
Drs Gano and Huffman returned a few weeks ago from Service in Ky empowered by the War Department to raise a squadron of Texas Scouts for Gen Jno. C. Breckinridge's Brigade by the wa
It was by Breckinridge's request that the Squadron was assigned his Brigade, now in service in Ky near Bowling Green. Dr Gano raises one Company
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Dr Huffman the other, Gano to be Senior Captain and ranks Huffman
I had concluded to go to Bowling Green at my own expense and join a Company there starting the first of next March prefering for several reasons to fight in Ky one was that I would stand a better chance to hear from the family than any other place being nearer them or where I left them at Covington last May
I also thought I would be likely to meet old acquaintances at Bowling Green perhaps refugees from Lincoln's tyranny. I furthermore considered it my duty to proceed to the rescue of my old home in this her hour of need to lend her a helping hand
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in passing through her dark and bloody struggle for Liberty, in her efforts to cast off the tyrants yoke and become a bright and shining star in the glorious Southern Constellation
The Squadron, and the kind of service it is designed for, seemed to fill my desires so fully that I concluded to join it and abandon the notion of returning by my self So I put my name down on Dr Huffman's Muster Roll. The time set for organization was to day we all to meet at Witts Mill on the Elm fork of Trinity
Notwithstanding the whole face of the earth and trees, grass and all are covered with ice
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and sleet besides a rather stiff Norther prevailing, several others and myself mounted our horses and wended our way to the place designated, a cold ride we had of it too. arriving we found but few assembled there. both Captains present, two as the
they proceeded to form a temporary organization to give it a start Our Company numbered 24 present with some 70 odd names on the Roll, the inclement weather preventing many from turning out we elected 1st – 2nd & 3rd Lieutenants & Capt, appointed the 6th of March the next day of meeting and also of going in to Camp permanently we then broke
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up and dispersed to our respective homes.
Thursday March 6th 1862 Early this morning myself and 8 or 10 others of this vicinity who have enlisted and intend to enlist mounted our horses and proceeded to Witts Mill. We found a larger number gathered there than before Our crowd carried 2 tents with them the material having been furnished by the Quarter Master pro tem, and the women made them up. The wind was blowing from the North our course being quartering little South of North West rendered it any but a pleasant ride. Stores cooking utensils & horse feed being on the ground many went
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into Camp As I had some unsettled business to attend to I did not remain but returned to my boarding house before leaving Camp however we formed our messes the mess I am in is numbered [blank] My mess mates consist of the following named persons to wit Wm Huffhines married P. W. Huffhines ditto Tom Huffhines ditto C. S. Kelley single M. J. Moore ditto & myself single not single by choice but by fate I dont know but it is best to be unmarried these troublesome times anyhow. The Captain gave orders for all to return to Camp next Saturday the 8th for the purpose of going into a permanent organization
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Camp Gano Sat Mch 8th 1862
I returned to Camp this morning and had but just dismounted and unsaddled my horse when I heard my name called as one of the Guard for the next two hours. I thought to myself that was entering up on duty pretty quick. As I took my place the released Guard handed over to me a heavy cudgel I soon learned there was nothing to guard but hogs and cattle which infested our Camp in large numbers and there being no rocks about these heavy clubs were used in lieu thereof. I soon became a dexterous thrower
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and woe be unto the "swineys" that came with in my reach. While watching round the Camp I thought I would run for some office, there seemed to be a great number of candidates for all judging from the amount of electioneering going on Such a seeking of introductions and shaking of hands &c I never witnessed before they all had the advantage of me having remained on the ground since the 6th electioneering. I had but little chance being on Guard till the Captain ordered us to "fall into line and proceed to the Election of Officers"! I found fewer
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candidates for 1st Corporal than for any other position and concluded to offer myself for that office with a view of climbing higher as circumstances and opportunities offered For Captain of course no one opposed Huffman and he was elected by a unanimous vote of the whole Company present. For the 1st Lieutenancy 3 candidates presented themselves the majority of the Company made choice of Mr Loveless of Plano Collin Co. Mr Chandler of the same place was made 2nd and W. H. Harris of Breckinridge after a close race with 2 others was
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made 3rd. Wm Halsell was elected Orderly Sargent with out opposition then followed 2nd 3rd & 4th Sargents after which candidates for 1st Corporal were invited forward myself and a fellow by the name of Lunsford steped out of the ranks and when orders were given "to your respective candidates march" Mr Lunsford has a small majority. If I had have staid the other day in place of going home and electioneered and got acquainted I might have earned but it dont matter much. The boys amuse themselves in various ways Some singing songs some playing the fiddle and some
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cracking their jokes. Towards night I was on guard again 2 hours having to serve 6 out of the 24 then resting a spell. As supper time approached each one busied himself in making preperation. I took upon myself the task of parching and making the coffee as the regular coffee berry is so scarce in the Confederate States on account of the Blockade we used rye as a substitute though I must acknowledge I am not fond of it. All of my mess left and went home on business I staid and took charge of our Camp equipage.
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Camp Gano March 9th Sunday
To day is the Sabbath but no difference is made in camp from any other day. As yet, the same duty is performed. This afternoon we had a drill my horse seems to understand the movements fully. it also comes easy to me, having before learned the Infantry drill, which resembles Cavalry drilling only the latter is performed with horses and a slight difference in some of the movements is necessary I am becoming acquainted with the Boys and I think we have a clever and quite civil set with but a few exceptions. Being near a grist mill our Camp is infested with large numbers of hogs which bother us no little when feeding our horses & mules
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This afternoon morning a smart shower visited us and made us take to our tents for shelter the gathering clouds grew dark and threatened, indicating a coming shower. Orders were given to dig ditches around our tents to prepare carry off the water and prevent it from running through and wetting our clothes the order was scarcely carried out when the rain began. it was quite a hard shower but fortunately for us lasted but a few moments our tents shed the rain tolerably well and if it was not for the black sticky mud being tracked in, we would have to experience no discomforture from the wet as far as sleeping arrangements are concerned
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After the drill this evening the Captain marched us all down to the creek for the purpose of watering our horses. while watering one of the boys horses lay down in the middle of the creek with him while all were laughing down went another horse with his rider we all had a side splitting laugh at them. no harm was done only they got their clothes all wet
Monday March 10 1862 After the morning drill some of the boys passed of the time by holding a mock court and having a mock trial. Jack Robinson one of the teamsters acted as
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States Attorney, Private Scott of Gano's Company as Judge two others filled the offices of Sheriff and Clerks myself acting as counsel for the accused after empaneling a jury, witnesses were brought forward and gave in their testimony I replied to the opening speech of the States Attorney after which he closed by a few remarks. the Judge delivered a short charge to the Jury when they retired and after a few moments brought in a verdict of Guilty fixing the penalty at marking time one half hour and climbing a pole ten feet high and coming down head foremost
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I plead for a new trial but his honor would not grant it. I then notified the court that I would appeal it. My opponent also objected to it claiming this to be the highest court after which we broke up and went to getting dinner, my client unheeding his sentence. After dinner on account of scarcity of provender for our horses our Captain deemed it expedient to move Camp to some neighborhood where it was more plenty We loaded our wagon with the tents and camp equipage bid Camp Gano farewell and rolled out myself and 3 others was appointed wagon guard
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by night we had reached Shepards our Captains home where he ordered us to halt for the night. We put our horses up in the lot fed them profusely and repaired to the house. Supper was soon announced and partaken of hearily. Soon after some of the boys went to the wagon to sleep for the night others went up stairs to bed while myself and 2 or 3 companions made palates on the floor for our place of rest for the night.
Tuesday March 11 1862 After a substantial breakfast we left the house and started for our new camp ground at which we arrived
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about 12 A.M. each one busied himself in either unloading the wagon or arranging camp fixtures. it was but a short space of time till our tents were pitched and we were snugly ensconced in our new camp. I do not like the situation as well as I did that of Camp Gano the latter being in the timber wood was pleniful and the trees afforded us shelter from the wind, which blows almost constantly, while our present site is on the prairie near a running branch. our wood we have to haul a mile or more and the victuals
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while cooking we find it difficult to keep the trash from blowing in them. our locality is to much exposed the wind striking us let it come from what source it may, but it is almost impossible to find a place where wood water and forage are convenient on account of the dry weather it not having rained to say a good rain for 6 months or more Our Captain stays with us in camp most all of the time going through the same that his men all do, standing Guard &c he is much beloved by all his men
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on account of his bearing, not letting his position as Captain fill him with that stinking pride and haughtiness that some officers do and who go around not condescending to speak to a private hardly. He not only speaks but will enter into a conversation with them and will lay his hands to work choping wood, helping to load and unload so that in the eyes of a stranger he would be taken for a private. Such Captains can go any place and their men will follow no matter how hard and desperate the
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fight or how great the hazard, where e'er he'll lead his men will follow.
Wednesday March 12th 1862
Early this morning the first Corporal and myself together with a team and teamster started out in search of sheaf oats for the horses. we found them very scarce and with difficulty only succeeded in getting 200 bundles. After dinner I saddled my horse and left camp for my boarding house to spend a few days at settleing up my affairs before I leave I am becoming so well pleased with camp life that I almost
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regret having to leave at all it seems almost like a home indeed it is the only home I have now in this wide world. I hope there is one for me more permanent for me in heaven above which I will reach some day
Sunday March 16th 1862 I returned to Camp this evening for the purpose of excusing myself tomorrow. the Captain had requested all to be in Camp Monday the 17 but I had some business to attend to at Dallas before I left and I thought the sooner it was attended to the better so I came up to night to get
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permission to be absent that day. I found a change in the camp, a hard storm of wind and rain had compelled them to move to a vacant house in the neighborhood a day or so ago and they had not returned to the old camp ground yet. Supper was just prepared as I arrived and I helped myself. in addition to the regular fare the boys had bought a lot of eggs and boiled them up. the Captain was not present but all three Lieutenants were. Shortly after supper we spread our
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blankets down on the floor and lay down for reposed on them for the night
Monday March 17 1862 I awoke an hour or more this morning before day and after tossing about for a while told the Lieutenant Harris to excuse me to the Captain when he came went out saddled my horse and shoved out toward my boarding house while it was yet dark, Starting this early so that I would have time to reach Dallas and back as far as my boarding house by to night as I want to go into camp again tomorrow morning
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Tuesday March 18 1862 I returned to Camp Farewell as our Captain has named our present Camp, this morning getting in about 12 Oclock Noon. There was a large congregation of the neighbors present to witness the presentation of a Flag flag to the Company by a Miss Owens I arrived to late to see her present it or hear her speech but heard the closing remarks of our Captain who received it from her hands after which we partook of a bounteous dinner spread by the Ladies. the good things abounded that is cakes pies &c were very abundant and there
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was enough fragments left to have filled seven baskets after all were fed. immediately after the feast, boots and saddles were ordered and we spent several hours in drilling Towards evening our visitors dispersed to their homes many of the young Ladies being escorted thither by our "Soldier Boys". As night drew on clouds of [?]ption darkness began to arise on the horizon. every preperation was made to avert the inconveniences of the coming storm. tents were pitched, tent pins driven in the ground farther, saddles put in the tents &c directly it came with a blustering wind from the North after a few minutes
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it ceased and hail fell for a while, when it settled down into a cold Norther and darkness closed upon us
Wednesday 19, 1862 Camp Farewell
A hard norther prevails this morning making it very disagreeable in Camp. the smoke of our fires driven about by the wind renders it almost impossible to get near enough to cook. we finally managed though by one doing all he could until the smoke filled his eyes that he could see no longer when a fresh one would turn in awhile and so on till we got breakfast Charlie Kelley a messmate of mine had his horse to get loose last night and I loaned him mine this morning to go after his on, in consequence there of We spent most of the day in drilling and are making rapid
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improvements in the art When time for drill arrived I stood for the guard while he drilled. As the shades of evening approached Kelley returned having found his horse at home.
Thursday 20 1862 Camp Farewell
Beyond all our expectation the Norther still prevails if anything with greater severity than ever it is an uncommon thing for them at this season of the year to hold so long after [overwritten] Charley Kelley's horse got loose last night he being a messmate of mine I loaned him my horse to go after his and in consequence thereof when
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time for drill came I stood for the guard while he drilled as the shades of evening approached Kelley returned having found his horse at home
Fri Mch 21 1862 Camp Farewell
We arose this morning to find the wind still in the north after a short consultation we concluded to move the Camp from the prairie to the timber 2 or 3 hundred yards off a suitable spot being chosen we all went to work to clear the ground of the briars and underbrush by twelve Oclock we had our tents all moved and pitched in our new quarters it is like getting in another climate
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the timber sheltered us from the wind and the air is not so penetrating. I will leave camp this evening for my clothes and return tomorrow
Sat March 22nd 1862 Camp Farewell
I returned this morning in time for drill bringing with me all my effects that I expect to carry with me, bidding adieu to all behind. No fond Parents with tear stricken eyes witnessed my starting no loving sister or Brother blessed my parting steps with warm cordial embraces and warm kisses no loved one with beating heart and quivering lip whispered me a heartfealt good bye and
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with eyes glistening with in tears followed my retreating form till distance hid me from her view. No no such was destined me nothing but formal farewells, but I hope I may chronicle a happy meeting in the future A time when the fatted calf will be killed and countenances radiant with smiles bid me welcome, and will She also cause rays of sunshine to play around my heart, will She fill my cup of joy to the brim Ah why do I sigh as I write, hopes and fears alternatively rise Oh the future the future who can scan the future
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Sunday March 23rd 1862 Camp Farewell
Capt Gano's men moved their camp to ours to day, the two Companies of the squadron are now together and when the Quarter Master is ready we will move take up our line of march for the battle ground. I would to Heaven we were there now, men are needed. Kentucky is entirely in the enemies hands and Tennisee is pretty near gone, now is the time of urgent need The enemy in triumph takes posession of our soil. the City of Nashville has fallen into their hands our banner trails in the dust, but hark a sound more terrible than thunder comes up from
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the South tis the voice of freemen echoing oer hill and dale, rallying to arouse, "The clans are a gathering. He who heeds not the summons is nae son of thine. The Banners are a flying that lead to victory". Vengeance is stamped on every brow and Victory the or Death their Motto. Our late reverses will only nerve our men to deeds of more daring. the wails of the oppressed will not be unheeded we will haste to their rescue, break the tyrants bonds and set them free.
Of course as our numbers increase times become more lively, the two Companies when out on duty seem to enjoy
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themselves hugely laughing joking and singing
Monday Mch 24 1862 Camp Farewell
To day a beautiful silk flag was presented to the Squadron by the Ladies of Dallas through Miss Stone daughter of Col B. W. Stone. She made a few remarks to which Capt Gano responded briefly, after which we partook of a bountiful dinner prepared for the occasion by the Citizens the day was a splendid one and all seemed to enjoy themselves a huge number of our friends visited us, and many were the farewells that took place numerous were the eyes bathed
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in tears as Father & Mother bid their sons good bye Sisters & Brothers, husbands and wives shed many a parting tear preperations for our departure are nearly completed. after our feast Parson Shaw addressed the crowd for a few moments. We were then ordered on Parade and our visitors departed to their homes.
Tues March 25 1862 Camp Farewell
To day I believe is the hottest that we have experienced this season warm weather is fast approaching When the leaves come out in the spring there will be many a Yankee shot by Southern bushwack-
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ers there many anxiously waiting for their time to come Some of our men were sent out before day this morning to bring in some mules for our waggons they found the man surrounded by armed men who were agoing to resist but our boys brought 3 of them into camp this evening prisoners After having made them all surrender and deliver over their arms they also brought in the mules. Parson Blewett preached a sermon to us this evening
Wed Mch 26 1862 Camp Farewell
We paid the owners of those mules captured yesterday in Quarter Masters receipts and kept the guns 9 in
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all for the use of such of our men that had none. This afternoon Capt Gano was made Senior Capt of the Squadron Parson Rodgers the Chaplain and Ed Shepard Surgeon. All were requested to stay in camp to night as we move on our way tomorrow. When we arrive at Davis we take the vote as to where we will go to Missouri or Ky. Since the late movement of the Feds in Mo many object to going to Ky on the plea of protecting texas by going to Mo I myself and I think a majority of the Squadron are in favor of going to Kentucky
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Thurs March 27 1862 This morning at 3 oclock Charley Kelley and I were awakened by the Guard and dispatched after some mules the Captain wanted to buy after riding most all day we found the man absent and got back about 3 oclock. I found the Company had taken up the line of march. towards night I overtook them encamped four miles beyond Camp Farewell. Now we begin to experience a Soldiers life in earnest, loading and unloading our wagons, pitching our tents and &c this evening before we retired to rest some of the boys were at one end of the camp fiddling and dancing at the other a number were singing hymns
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Fri Mch 28 1862 We began our march early this morning and camped 2 miles beyond McKinney on East Fork of the Trinity by 12 oclock noon a distance of about ten miles here we laid by the balance of the day in order to have a number of the mules shod. As we marched through the town of McKinney the Ladies came to their doors and waved their handkerchiefs to us. O what would man be without woman. man He is like the raging surging billows madly dashing against a rocky coast, She like oil on troubled waters calms them to rest. Mild gentle and loving, angelic blessings virtues
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Sat Mch 29, 1862 We struck our tents early and proceeded on our way. the Boys all full of their fun hailed every fellow we met on the road with how are you uncle &c and if an oxteam chance to be passing along or any body plowing with steers in fields near the road they were sure to be stoped by the whoas of our boys. Water is very scarce and we stoped after having traveled fifteen miles there being no other watering place short of fifteen miles further a distance to great for our train to reach in one day so early on the march
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Sun Mch 30 1862 After traveling fifteen miles this morning we halted and pitched camp at 4 oclock P.M. our Chaplain preached us a sermon. the squadron gathered round and listened to him with due respect. After dark many passed the time off by singing Hymns til the hour for lying down arrived
Mon Mch 31, 1862 Our days march amounted to about fifteen miles usual as usual. the farther up this way we come the scarcer the water and although we send out men ahead to select out camping places and forage it is with dificulty
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that they find it we have been so long with out but very little rain. our camp this evening is about 3 miles west of Bonham Fannin Co at a small pool of mudy filthy water unworthy of the name of a lake. to add to the nastiness of this stagnant water it is surrounded by half decayed carcasses of dead cattle some are even in it having went in to drink and stuck fast in the mud to perish. Our men grumbled no little at it but it was the only chance and we had to make the best of a bad use it or do with out failing to get the mules shod in McKinney we will camp here and have it done
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and the wagon ties cut and tightened
Tues Apr 1st 1862 we remained camped here all day. I have not drunk any of this water nor eat any thing cooked with it. I use water brought from wells in canteens. a good deal of thunder and lightening to night but no rain
Wed Apr 2nd 1862 Charley Kelley my self and several others started out this morning ahead of the squadron to find a camping place as they will be ready to leave by 1 oclock this afternoon It was almost impossible to find water enough for
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the whole squadron however we found a well that furnished enough a mile or more off the road. I went back to the main road and piloted the Company to it. this evening Charley Kelley took Henry Harris and myself to a house in the neighborhood where an acquaintance of his resided by the name of Smith. we partook of the luxuries of chairs and eating at a table once more. Mr Smith treated us with great kindness had our horses well taken care of. When we retired we slept on a bedstead an article not
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known to campers
Thurs Apr 3 1862 we left Mr Smiths after breakfast this morning proceeded through Honey Grove and overtook the Company several miles beyond the town. we made 24 miles to day time as we rode along some of the boys killed a number of Prairie chickens which were quite plenty along the road
The water we were compelled to use was from a nother pond and was full of lice or other water insects it is pretty hard to stomach but necessity knows no law, and if we shut our eyes we cant tell they are there
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Friday Apr 4th 1862 We struck camp early this morning and with glee left the living water none being sad on that account 5 miles travel brought us to Paris Lamar Co it is a very neat village built covering quite a number of acres, with some very fine houses and has the appearance of once being a place of business but the war has caused the suspension of many of the stores the proprietors have gone to the War others have closed their stores on account of being out of goods and have no place to go where they can replenish their stock. On the other side of the town some 5 or 6 miles we passed an encampment of 4 or 5 Companies of Fitshugh's Regiment
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Our camp this evening was pitched near a pool which afforded the water for both man and horse as it threatens rain we ditched round our tents and made all preperation for the storm if it should come
Sat Apr 5 1862 Last night the winds of Heaven opened and for a period of a couple of hours rain fell profusely The Marquee of the Captains was soon deluged and Captain Huffman sought shelter under our tent. we received him in and shared our bed clothes with him till morning. by day the clouds had dispersed and the King of Day shed his warm bright rays over the land in all his majesty. We were all astir early and marched 13 miles by 1 oclock when we encamped for the day
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This evening the squadron was assembled or thrown into line and a vote taken to get the sense of the squadron where we shall march to Missouri or Tennisee the vote for Tennisee carried nearly being unanimous, very few voting for Missouri. I was very glad as I had started out with the expectation of doing my fighting in Kentucky or as near there as I could get. if the vote had been for Mo I should have tried to get a discharge so that I might have followed out my original intentions
Sun Apr 6 1862 I was appointed by the Captain to go forward with several others in advance of the Company to day to find forage and water for our next encampment. I passed through Clarksville Red River Co it has the appearance of a thriving place
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in times of peace but war has stoped the hum of business and quiet presides where bustle reigned. We proceeded some 12 miles selected a camp ground and engaged forage, when a messenger from the Company arrived informing us we were on the wrong road. we were convinced however that they were gone astray and not us and our Corporal dispatched me across the country to head them and guide them to the camp ground we had selected I had not proceeded more than a half a mile when I came across them trying to find out where we were having discovered their mistake I soon led them to the place and in a short time the tents were all pitched and
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supper underway. We reached pine timber to day our camp was among tall pine trees, their tall tops towering towards the Heavens and the wind among the branches reminded me of the surging billows of the ocean dashing over the rocks it is the most romantic camp ground we have yet found. This afternoon our Chaplain enlightened us by a short but very good sermon
Mon Apr 7th 1862 It began raining last night or this morning rather at 3 oclock Just as I was released from guard. I was very glad my 2 hours expired at that time I missed a wetting by it. We did not leave camp to day as the rain continued at intervals all day it was is very sloppy and disagreeable. it invariably gives me the blues to have to
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delay. I am anxious to be moving out to the point of our destination. why it appears to me that half our time will be gone before we get there, though I cant help it if it does rain. it lies not in the power of man to control the elements and Thy will be done O Lord not mine. James Moore one of my messmates was taken down ill this afternoon. I took it upon my self to wait upon him specialy and to administer him his medicine. As we retired the rain was pouring down in torrents but our tent turned it very well and we managed to keep tolerably dry
Tues Apr 8 1862 The rain ceased some time in the night but owing to the exceeding dampness
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and saturated state of our bed clothes and tents the Captains thought it impracticable to move to day. the roads are also very bad Col Nicholson our ajutant drilled us in infantry drill this evening. James Moore was right smartly better so as to get about a little Many of our men passed the time in washing their dirty clothes up and others in drying their wet bed clothes. This afternoon as some of the boys were jumping their horses over a pole held for the purpose Capt Gano had joined them his horse triped and fell throwing him head foremost and narrowly escaped breaking his neck
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Wed Apr 9 1862 We moved again this morning on our journey traveling about 12 miles the road was much washed and it pulled our train very hard. Our camp was pitched ½ mile to the right of DeKalb a small village of some 8 or 10 houses. I noticed the corn in some of the fields along side of the road 3 and 4 inches high and all good stands. It does my heart good to see that the crops promise fine and I do hope that enough will be raised to feed all the Soldiers plentifully
Thurs Apr 10 after a travel of 15 miles we camped. we passed through the village of Boston
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a neat little place before entering the town we passed some very fine residences, with their front yards filled with shrubery reminding me of old Kentucky
Fri Apr 11 About midnight last night we were suddenly aroused from our slumbers by the loud crashes low mutterings of distant thunder that broke the stillness of the hour in a moment all was confusion, ditches were hastily dug saddles and camp equipage moved in to the tents and tent pins tightened. All had not got done when the rain began to fall slowly in large drops and gradually increased to a hard rain, which continued up to 9 oclock this morning, when it ceased on account
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of the wetness of every thing the squadron did not move to day. My self and several others took a hunt after turkeys which were reported to be plenty in the neighborhood but did not find any returning tired and wet This evening we had a sermon from a member of Capt Gano's Company named Rains, many of the neighbors were in attendance
Sat Apr 12 1862 Once more we are on the move which gladdens the hearts of us all. James Moore is so bad off that he is unable to ride his horse and is being hauled in the Ambulance. A majority of the Company signifying by petition to Capt Huffman that I was the
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one they wanted to fill the vacancy of 1st Corporal occasioned by the sickness and absence of S. P. Lunsford who on account of ill health returned home to recruit—it while the Company was at Burnham. I was put on duty this morning as Corporal of the guard in charge of six men, who acted as Waggon Guard during time of traveling and Police Guard while in Camp. we passed through a small place called Mooresville containing a store or two and 2 or 3 other houses. last evening I was unfortunate enough to loose my valise key which prevents me from opening it until I can borrow one that will fit it, distance traveled to day about 18 miles. We are now encamped within 1 mile of the Arkansas line.
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Sund Apr 13 1862 Soon after striking Camp we bid adieu to Texas and passed into Arkansas 5 miles bringing us to a small place called Rondo of several stores 2 or 3 miles brought us to Red River Bottom the road ran through the Bottom for fifteen miles it was in good condition and afforded us no trouble I noticed some tremendous plantations most all planted in corn this year while large piles of cotton gined and ungined lay stored away waiting for the breaking of the Blockade. our Camp to night is immediately on the bank of Red River a pleasant place to camp I feel very unwell
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this evening. I think I caught cold in my limbs or have a slight touch of Rheumatism my body is as sore to the touch as though I had been beaten all over with clubs distance traveled to day 24 miles. Our Chaplain preached us a sermon this evening many of the neighbors attended
Mon Apr 14th Our Captains have changed their mind and concluded to go to Monroe La and there take the cars instead of going to Gains' landing this morning till 12 oclock we were crossing Red River keeping 3 flats busy all the time ferrying the squadron over all passed
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off without accident and we were soon marching towards Monroe. We passed through a small place called Lewisville of small note distance traveled 15 miles. It is by the utmost perseverance that I am enabled to keep up this diary my time is so occupied and what few leisure moments I have I feel to wearied almost to turn a hand to any thing. it was with a feeling most sorrowful that we heard of the fall of the Brave Gen A. S. Johnson of the C.S.A. a man of immense worth to the C.S. and who cannot be replaced. he fell bravely contesting with the enemy on
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the Battlefield our Captain remarked to us that he had no doubt but that we would be mingling in the strife in less than twenty days. for my part I dont care how soon
Tues Apr 15th 1862 It is with more labor that I write to night than ever before, the cold in my limbs makes me weaker and consequently I get weary sooner than when I was well. Our travel reached the distance of 21 miles and over a road but little traveled at that judging from the numerous trees fallen across it. there is one thing that we find more plentiful than
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while in Texas and that is water A great deal of the time the creeks run up and down and across the roads and we march splashing through them where they are not bridged. While marching along my eye caught sight of a beech tree the first I have seen. Individuals had cut their name and date on them through in the bark and memory through the visited vista of memory I wandered back to the fond days time of my early childhood and dwelt upon the pleasant
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hours I whiled away with the companions of those happy days, days that can ne'er be recalled. how oft Oh how oft have we rambled through those beech woods and inscribed our names on their trunks in old Kentucky insensible to the cares toils and vexations of life. This evening one of the commisary waggons came up with a broken axle another with a broken tongue.
Wed Apr 16th 1862 We were delayed an hour or more this morning waiting for the wagons to be repaired Our orderly Ajutant however improved the time by carrying us through a drill 6 or 8 young ladies stopping at a
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house near Camp witnessed our drill at the conclusion of which Capt Gano made them a brief address desiring their prayers for the squadron &c as we were leaving they showered the boquets all around him. the squadron gave them 3 hearty cheers and marched on. 3 miles brought us to the town of Magnolia a tasty little place a mile or more before we got there the Ladies of the different houses we passed saluted us with waving of handkerchiefs as we entered the town we were vociferously cheered by the people there, the utmost kindness and respect was shown us, the landlord of one of the hotels offered to give
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a dinner to the whole squadron but we had not time to stop and avail avail ourselves of the proffered hospitality. As we passed his hotel he had the Confederate flag run up over his house, a little niger beat the drum he waved his hat while his wife walked up and down the porch waving her handkerchief and hands to us. even the school children waved their bonnets as we passed. Such marked attention and respect was striking and I cound not help but feel our cause was just and conquer we must if in God we trust. Such manifestations nerve the arm of the Soldier and when on the battle field memory like a mirror will reflect them afresh
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on his heart and with victory or death stamped on his brow he will strike more gallantly terrible and perform deeds more daring till the foe is smitten from the crimson field, yes our hearts will pour out their scarlet tide in defense of Liberty
distance traveled 14 miles
Thurs Apr 17th 1862 A slight rain last night made every thing out side quite wet. before leaving we built a small fire in the center of the tent to dry it. as we stoped to noon a few minutes to day, a lady invited us all into her house and feasted us on plenty of corn bread, butter milk and honey which was very acceptable. Kind soul she did all in her power for us
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As we left we gave her 3 cheers God Bless the Women. We passed through a place called Mt Holly aimed I suppose for a town it contained 2 stores 1 blacksmith shop and one residence. this afternoon we passed through Lisbon a small but quite an ancient looking place judging from the dilapidated looking houses distance made to day 17 miles
Friday Apr 18th 1862 Another rain last night wet every thing completely it even ran under our bed clothes in the tent. we were not expecting it and consequencely had made no preperation for it, however we got started about as early as ever this morning and made 15 miles. our teams on account
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of the heavy roads are much fagged. We passed through the neat and small town of Eldorado the Ladies greeted us as we passed along with waving handkerchiefs and showered the boquets on our Captains with out stint James Moore has got nearly well and is able to be one of us again
Sat Apr 19th 1862 Again last night a rain awakened us and caused us to tuck the blankets closer around us. it continued on through the whole day with out cesation to pour. I remained in my tent close. this evening all of the mess have left to find lodging in houses but I choose to sleep in the tent as the rain by my self
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Sun Apr 20th Rain ceased some time in the night I passed the night alone very comfortable, this morning still cloudy but uncomfortably cold, my turn for standing Guard came round to day I took 2 men with me and went ahead to find out a camping place and to buy forage. the roads were very wet and some of the creeks belly deep to a horse. As we passed through the small village of Hillsboro, Union Co the citizens all most eat us up because we were Texas rangers they showed us every attention that we could desire and loaded me down with newspapers which was a great treat according to orders I picked out a camp ground
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12 miles from our old camp also bought corn and fodder. the Company came up towards evening and occupied the ground. Our Chaplain preached us a sermon to night some of the neighbors attended
Mond Apr 21st 1862 After traveling 5 miles this morning we entered the State of Louisiana. the Boys have received such kind attention from the Citizens of Arkansas that many expressed regret at leaving it and will ever cherish high opinions of in memory the warmest of feelings towards the hospitable inhabitants. Louisiana we hope to find the same, number of miles traveled to day 16, Capt Gano got a recruit to day from Ark
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Tues Apr 22nd 1862 Nothing occured to day worthy of note. We passed through the town of Farmersville a small place in Union Parish from thence we crossed a small stream [blank] on a ferry flat after which a number of miles brought us to a village called downsville a very diminutive place, distance traveled 20 miles the country traveled over to day was much diversified with hills and hollows and is but thinly settled the nature of the soil red sand with a good deal of red sand stone. Cotton seems to be the principle production though there is very little planted this year corn being planted cultivated in its stead
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Wed Apr 23rd 1862 We took up our line of march early this morning as we usually do, and set out with the expectation of reaching Monroe at camping time. As we traveled along the people living on the sides of the road waved their handkerchiefs at us and some the Confederate flag. We traveled 22 miles when we reached the seat of Trenton a small town on the Ouachita River from thence we proceeded down the river bank 2 miles to the ferry which landed us in the town of Monroe. it was a much smaller town than I expected to find it. We camped a ½ mile from town near the Rail Road Depot. this morning
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We witnessed the arrival of the evening train from Vicksburg. it was the first time that some of the Boys had ever seen the cars before and it was a great curiosity to them. they examined the locomotive all over and asked many questions about it the shrill whistle attracted their attention very much. distance traveled to day 24 miles. our train were delayed crossing the river and it was after dark before some of the wagons got in
Thurs Apr 24th 1862 We were all aroused before day this morning by the loud snort of the Iron horse as he set out with the morning train our bugler declared it was no use for him to sound the bugle any more as that whistle beat him so
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bad. As the cars were not here for us to take our horses in we could not move to day but our Captains kept us pretty busy drilling. we drilled some through the town as we went to the river to water our horses and the boquets were rained down on the squadron it seems to be the height of the rosy season as most every yard in town is full of bushes in full bloom. I went to the river and took a bath which seemed to invigorate me very much I felt so much better after the sweat and dirt was washed off me. upon the arrival of the evening train I witnessed a sight that almost made my very heart bleed. there came down on it
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2 young men, volunteers from Arkansas returning to their homes one had received a ball in his leg and the other an ounce ball through his left shoulder both in the late battle at Shiloah Mississippi. they did not appear to be disheartened at all and talked freely on the subject, but the sadest sight was the sick. there was some twelve or fourteen sick returning. some were in the last stages one had died on the cars another was dieing then, others were near deaths door while some were not so bad. it filled me with gloom to see their manly forms wasted by disease. they had started out to defend their country, their Liberty, their all, probably with buoyant spirits, and now returned stricken on a beds of pain
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and misery not caresed by balls of the enemy on the battle field but stricken by the hand of disease. yes returning to meet those whom they but a short time ago left parted with, in health and in high spirits, coming back some in the robes of silent death to be buried at home, some with pallid cheek sunken eye and emaciated form the death damp all on their brow they perhaps will be permitted to get home only to have the hand of a beloved wife mother or sister smooth their pillow and to watch and weep over them as their spirits take their flight to eternity while others not so ill may recover and live to an advanced age Charlie Kelley another one of my messmates is quite sick with chills and fever James Moore is still very weak
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Fri Apr 25 1862 towards day a rain set in and as it was unexpected we had made no preperation for it and a number of our equipage got wet. it ceased a short time after day break. early this morning we got every thing aboard the cars camp equipage, horses, mules, wagons and all and were moving towards Vicksburgh. We arrived with one accident at the Mississippi River oposite Vicksburg about 2 oclock, then followed the unloading of the cars and hitching up of the wagons and saddling of horses. on account of the extreme high water the cars had to stop short of the river a mile or such matter and the road ran through a field the ground being broken and very wet besides, the wagons could not get along but slowly
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a steam ferry carried us across the "Father of waters" the mighty Mississippi and landed us at the City of Vicksburg. our commisary who had come a head yesterday with the Quarter Master conducted to a camp ground ½ mile beyond the City on a high hill at the foot of which runs the rail road that leads to Corinth where our Army is encamped the enemy also are some 20 miles from there and Shiloah the late scene of action is not far from Corinth. as I survey the Mississippi the steam boats, and the Rail cars sights that I was accustomed to in my child hood my heart beats stronger and I feel more at home. Home! what magic in
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the word. at the mention of it, what scenes rush thick and fast before me, scenes of former days, of Father, Mother, Sister, Brother, of happy days of associates, of school mates, of loves, of friends, of relatives, of marriages of deaths &c. The chart of memory is unrolled and we revisit all again. is there not magic in the word, Home Sweet Home. Where is my Home echo answers, where tears unforbidden gush from my over flowing eyes. tis Holy to weep over thoughts of Home. may thou oh magic word in the trying hour of infuse strength to my arm Battle amidst the roar of the booming cannon the whistling of bullets and the clash of resounding arms, infuse strength to my arms nerves steadyness to my hand and determination to my
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soul and by our deeds show the ruthless invader that we will fight for Thee to the last, fight for Home and Liberty
Sat Apr 26 1862 I took a good old fashioned wash this morning, put on clean clothes and after dinner I made a call on Miss Lellie Martin a young Lady I traveled down the river with last May while on my return to Texas I spent a very an hour very pleasantly with her She was very polite and treated me with every attention in leaving she presented me with a boquet for Capt Huffman. if we should stay here 4 or 5 days I will call again. Capt Gano left on
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the train for Jackson to ascertain if possible something from Breckinridge in regard to the squadrons procedure. I learn Breckinridge has been promoted to a Major General for bravery at the Battle of Shiloh
Sund Apr 27 1862 I saddled and bridled my horse this morning for the purpose of riding him to town to church but as inspection of arms came off this evening I remained to put mine in proper fix when it was late for church. hearing that a gun boat was lying at the wharf I went down to see it but it proved to be no gun boat but a large steam ship and a tow boat, the name
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of the steam vessel was the St Philip formerly the "Star of the West" the vessel we fired into in Charleston harbor as she attempted to pass our batteries and sucor Major Anderson at Ft Sumpter at the first outbreak of the Revolution She was afterwards captured by our forces and her name changed her business here was to bring $11000000 Eleven Million Dollars in specie from the New Orleans banks ordinance stores &c to keep it from falling into the hands of the Federals and also to save the vessel from the same fate Our Capt received an order from the Provost Marshal ordering him to unarm and unhorse one of the Companies of the squadron and report it to him for fatigue duties
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Capt Huffman paid no attention to it. amunition was issued out to us and preperation was made to resist should any force be sent out to compel us to comply Guns were loaded with buckshot. the Capt called for all the men of the squadron that were ready for action at any moment to step forward about 40 of ours responded myself among them of course and 30 from Gano's Company making a squad of 70 Boys who were determined to die on the spot rather than yield and although Vicksburg is under Marshall Law we saw too many fine dressed niggers parading the streets for us to turn in and perform Fatigue duty. the duty required was to unload that ship
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in the hot sun it would have created I have no doubt a great deal of sickness among us. We also looked for them up to put our Capt under arrest for court Marshall but we would have had to been overwhelmed by largely superior numbers for them to have got him. New Orleans being threatened by the Federals and some of their gun boats coming up in this way direction creates a great deal of excitement here and it is given up that if New Orleans falls the whole Mississippi River will fall in to the hands of the enemy we are not as well prepared to fight them on the water as we are on land. we heard no more from the Provost Marshal this evening
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Mond Apr 28 Weather exceedingly warm our Ajutant put us through drilled us to day near all day We had no spare time for any thing hardly Capt Gano returned from Jackson. he telegraphed to Gen Breckinridge but he being absent from Corinth got no reply. the prospects are that we will take up our line of march for Corinth tomorrow afternoon or the next morning there seems to be no chance to go by rail nor none to go by boat via Memphis. Thomas Huffhines and my self came this evening to set up with our sick and administer them medicine they are Charley Kelley, Pat Lively, Geo Casey, and Tom Dent. Kelley, Casey and Dent are pretty low with fever they are in an
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empty house belonging to a Mr Garvin and every attention is paid them by Mr Garvin he furnishes them nicely cooked victuals and has his servants to wait on them
Tues Apr 29 1862 This morning I repaired to town and spent a couple of hours with Miss Lellie Martin they will ever be recolected remembered by me, as hours spent most happy happily. She is as entertaining and agreeable young lady acquaintance as I ever had time rolled off to fast while in her company, hours seemed but moments. O it was truly soul refreshing Could I enjoy such pleasure often earth would be dearer to me than it is now
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yes they would be sunny spots to me through this stormy world life but alas this vain world is not an abiding place for happiness But in realms above with our savior's love true happiness alone is found this evening it clouded up and had every appearance of rain but only a few drops fell. to day we got the news of the surrender of New Orleans the great City of the South. they came before the City with their gun boats and the authorities had to comply with the demand to surrender or have the City shelled. the Mississippi river is higher than ever known before and I think when it falls it will cause sickness that will
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sweep off the vandals like rotten sheep, that the yellow fever will rage and create a panic among Lincoln's hirelings and they will flee like chaff before the wind. I will close the curtains on the scene till the season approaches when they will again be drawn and reveal what was hidden behind them
Wed Apr 30th 1862 Once more we took up our line of march bidding adieu to the City of Vicksburg and the Mississippi river with it. Our Captains tried their best to obtain transportation by rail failing in that they they sought to go by Memphis by boat and thence by rail, but not succeeding in that no other chance was left us but take up our
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line of march, distance traveled to day 15 miles
Thurs May 1st Early this morning we renewed our march, passing many large fields of corn, and numerous blacks tending it, also large cane brakes growing on each side of the road. on account of the sick we only traveled 12 miles to day
Fri May 2nd Charlie Kelley, Tom Dent and Geo Casey were so bad off with the fever that we were under the painful necessity of leaving them this morning at the house of a planter near where we camped. it was a mournful task to have to leave them behind but they were too sick to travel
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and the squadron could not do them any good by stoping besides it could not be expected Captain Huffman remained with Mr Coleman behind to see to them a day or to, Mr Coleman being a splendid nurse, Capt Huffman thought he would come into camp in a day or to and be able to bring us the tidings of an improvement in their health we marched 12 miles to day and encamped near a small settlement called Mechanicsburg. a meeting house being near, our Chaplain preached us a sermon at candle light many of the neighbors attended after preaching, Capt Gano delivered one of the most eloquent addresses
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on the War I ever heard from any one he was listened to with great attention by all and when he concluded the applause was deafening
Sat May 3rd 1862 On account of making a new tongue to our ambulance, repairing a wagon wheel and shoeing some mules and horses, we did not strike camp to day. I performed the tedious task of washing out 3 shirts 1 pair drawers pantaloons &c. I resolved rather than wash any more to hire it done as long as I had a cent of money to pay for it. hearing there was a fortune teller living near my self with several others repaired hither to amuse ourselves by
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having her tell ours. she used a deck of cards, told me I was to pass through a battle by six weeks from now would be wounded in the side but not seriously would receive a couple of letters in 2 weeks and described my sweetheart as being of medium height, fair complected, blue eyes dark hair, affable manners and of easy persuasion. I couldn't from that description imagine who it was. She told me moreover that I would receive an invitation to a wedding or party soon also one to a trial of one of the Company. it was the bigest piece of humbugery I believe I ever witnessed. Capt Gano introduced a new drill
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to us, it was making a charge one Company would range themselves in line with pistols in their hand loaded with blank cartridges the other Company would come up in full speed and pass between the horses of the other while the one that held fast and received the charge would discharge their pistols in the air when the Company making the charge got within 10 or 15 paces of them and then break for the position 40 or 50 yds off that was occupied previously by the Company making the charge while the latter would take their place and receive a charge from them and so on alternately till for an hour or more when the the expiration of drill
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Sund May 4th As this was my day to serve as Corporal I took charge of the wagon guard. We are now in the midst of the cotton plantations of Mississippi and although there is a great deal of it planted in corn I must confess I am surprised to see so much planted in cotton. it is my opinion all the cotton on hand should be burned and no more produced till Peace is declared distance traveled to day 10 miles. another of our Company to sick to travel was left behind Wm Blalock, his half brother Thos Blalock remained to take care of him. James Moore was able to preach us a
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very good sermon to night neighbors as usual were in attendance
Mon May 5th Just as my time for duty as relief officer came on last night 1 oclock a heavy shower deluged the face of the earth for a short period when it ceased entirely and day broke with a clear sky overhead. Small towns are not so numerous in this state as the others we have passed through there we found them every few miles, here they are seldom met with and I think it is a good thing for where there they generally are a resort for so many idlers and a great deal of vice is enacted such as gambling drinking liquor &c distance traveled to day 14 miles
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Tues May 6th A march of 2 miles brought us to the town of Benton Hazen Co it was formerly the county seat but it now removed to Yazoo City and of Yazoo County but since it has been superceded by Yazoo City. it seems to have lost all its activity and does not live but only breathes. the once stately court house is now but a crumbling ruin, the public square, adorned with lofty locusts is no longer enclosed with a neat and tidy fence the branches of the trees are loped off and desolation and decay mark the place throughout After a couple of hours delay E. M. Stackpole our Quartermaster who had been sent ahead
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yesterday with instructions to proceed to the railroad and procure us transportation if he could met us here and imparted to us the welcome tidings that he had been successful and we could get aboard the train at Vaughan's Station 14 miles distant and be carried to Grand Junction within 40 miles or such matter of Corinth. We have been on the march so long that all were glad at the prospect of soon reaching the place where new scenes and diferent duty would be ours. We traveled 6 miles more making 8 all told, to day and pitched our tents. Just before dark Capt Huffman made his welcome appearance in camp again. he brought us the sad tidings of
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the death of one we had left behind, Tho's Dent, of congestion of the brain. Physicians had been summoned and all was done that lay in human power but alas the disease was to deep seated to be uprooted by the hand of man Death Grim death had marked him for his own and on Sunday evening last snatched him from us he had since we left him become been delirious, but a short time before he passed away while the death damp was on his brow he became rational and said he knew he was agoing to die and manifested a desire that the members of the squadron should meet him in Heaven, after which he sang a hymn and offered
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up a prayer in which the squadron was the subject of some of the petitions A short time after reason took its flight and he knew no more After languishing thus towards shades of evening God released him from his pain and his spirit took its flight. his death was he died very hard. thus has passed a way one of our little band who a few weeks ago was well and hearty and the last one that would have been thought the first to die. thus has the mighty destroyer been among us. who will be his next victim, none save one can tell. Capt Huffman reports he left Charlie Kelley and Geo Casey very sick but the disease was broken and they were in a fair way to recover. 3 more on the sick list was left at Benton 2 from Capt Gano's Company and one from ours, all to sick to travel
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Wed May 7th Our orderly being quite unwell requested me to make out his monthly Muster Roll to be forwarded on to the War Department to obtain
As the wagons with all the bagage and equipments left early, while the Company remained behind to drill, I went on in advance to the Depot only 6 miles from our last night's camp and finished the report. Our Camp is along side of the track ready to move every thing aboard when the time arrives to do so. Capt Huffman Capt Gano and C. M. Stackpole took the train this evening at nine oclock and went on in advance to prepare for our coming. There is enough cars for one Company to start on now on but not enough for 2, so Company A will leave in the morning and ours the next morning the former have got their wagons
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all aboard this evening and a great deal of their equipage. they will strike tents and take them and their horses aboard in the morning.
Thurs May 8th Neither Company got off to day on account of the failure of the arrival of the locomotive to pull the train. there is so much doing, transporting Soldiers and stores that the cars are kept very busy. There was near 500 sick Soldiers from Corinth passed down to day on their way to hospitals and other places to recruit. there also passed 2 Regiments of Louisiana troops on their way to Vicksburg to repel the Yankees should they attempt dare to show themselves there. weather very warm
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Fri May 9th 1862 One year ago to day I left Covington Ky for Texas, bidding all behind adieu till leaving time should alone to divulge the future. Capt Gano's Company left on the train this morning near noon. Towards night evening a train came along and claimed us by 4 oclock we were ready and the locomotive fairly flew with us through wood through field and over bridges away we went, all bouyant and in fine spirits at 1½ oclock this morning on our way to meet the enemy. many were the fields of corn we passed Plantation after plantation and all looking well
Sat May 10th This morning at 1½ oclock we halted and lay by on a switch at Water Valley Station waiting for downward trains to pass Awhile after day light we
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got under way and to our surprise passed Company A whose train had stoped a quarter beyond the station. they were on the regular freight train and it always lays up there at night, but ours being what they term a wild train—that is not a regular train we were privileged to pass get through as soon as we pleased. After a short delay at Holly Springs which by the by is quite a place, we sped along and by [blank] arrived at Grand Junction Tenn. it was but a short time till we had the cars unloaded our wagons riged and loaded and on the way to camp. Our Quartermaster met us at the cars and we were guided to a camp ground 4
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miles from town Company A arriving several hours afterwards Grand Junction was full of Soldiers both sick and well. it was a sad sight to see as we came up so many lying on the ground in the shade of the depot suffering from all sorts of sickness such as measels diarhea &c to weak to even turn over. it does look like beter care should be taken of them. Our camp is in Tenn near the Mississippi line and 40 odd miles from Corinth. how long we will remain here we can not tell till the return of our Captains from Corinth we are expecting them every hour and
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I hope they may arrive soon and we may be ordered immediately on a scout I am anxious to begin to be a Soldier in reality as I think we have played soldier long enough if God will spare my health I am willing to do my duty faithfully
Sund May 11th A most beautiful day is this, the sun shone forth in all his grandeur and casts a brightness oer all the earth. This morning we were entertained by a sermon Will Halsell our Orderly is so sick that he had to be carried to a house in the neighborhood we all hope he may soon recover and join us again. This afternoon I returned to town Grand Junction for the purpose of
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discovering some one if possible from Covington. I found Mr Forrester, Provost Marshall at the Junction, an old acquaintance but as he had left Covington before I did and was very busy I did not glean much from him, only that Capt Madeira's Company, one I was member of before I left Ky, were taken prisoners at the fall of Ft Donnelson I was very sorry to hear it. many of the members was old school mates of mine. besides I was one that helped organize it, but I am now going in myself and will have to guard against such calamities. Capts Huffman and Gano returned from
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Corinth by afternoon train. Capt Huffman proceeded immediately to Memphis on business. Capt Gano gave us the following report of That owing to new rules established as well as the absence of A. S. Johnston who was killed, they found it an extremely dificult task to have us received as Cavalry but by perseverance succeeded, but failed to in getting us the place assigned by A. S. Johnson that is under the command of Gen Breckinridge. Our position will be under Gen Beale of Ark that is all we know. when we get there our duties will be shown us made known to us. We will start Tues morning next overland
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Monday May 12 Many horses of the squadron were reshod to day preparitory to entering into active service. the weather is extremely warm nothing interesting going on in Camp all making preperations for our departure. owing to the passage of a Law called the Conscript law all 12 months troops between the ages of 18 & 35 are required to reenlist for 3 years by the 15th of May or be drafted it also includes those at home between those ages. therefore Company A reenlisted for 3 years and reorganized. Our Company will follow suit on the return of our Captain
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Tues May 13th Early this morning our Capt arrived in camp After loading the wagons and starting them towards Corinth we marched to town was sworn in for 2 aditional years and then proceeded to reorganize Our Captain was unanimously reelected. for 1st Lieut Henry Harris was chosen, for the 2nd no change was made to the 3rd John Lovelace was chosen. Orderly Sargent remained the same I was made choice of for 4th Sergeant being a lift of 2 steps from the one I filled under the old organization
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moved on while I was detailed to remain behind long enough to help make out a muster Roll After finishing it which was near sun down we proceeded to camp 25 miles off it was a weary ride we got to Camp at 2 oclock in the morning
Wed May 14th I being Sergeant of the Guard had charge of the Wagon Guard the roads were very bad the teams bogged often and the Guard had to get down and put their shoulder to the wheel. We are constantly meeting both foot and horsemen going to and from Corinth distance traveled to day 20 miles
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Thurs May 15th Our Camp last night was within 5 miles of where our forces and the enemies were skirmishing Our men captured 175 beeves from them. Our Captains are very watchful and cautious We kept an advance Guard of about 16 men ahead of us all day to forewarn us of any danger there might be ahead About 12 oclock we arrived at the beginning of the encampments so many tents I never before beheld they looked like large citties of We passed through the town of Corinth a very small place though of much noteriety at the present time distance traveled to day 15 miles we pitched our camp
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2 miles from Corinth. We was unable to procure any feed for our horses this evening so for the first time they had to do without
Fri May 16th Most every man in the squadron visited their friends and relatives in other Companies I remained at camp and at the request of Capt Huffman wrote permits to be absent for such as went. We are here now where our large army is encamped their tents encircle us all around the rolling drum is constantly heard accompanied by the shrill sound of the fife but one step more and we will realize a Soldiers life in earnest and that
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step is to meet the enemy in deadly conflict. Capt Gano announced to me that a scout to Lexington Ky was planed for us that it was attended with considerable peril he acknowledged but where is a place of safety to a Soldier in time of War for my part I am well pleased that we have the privilege of scouting in that direction and hope to be able to give a good account of my self while on the trip. to visit old Kentucky why me thinks I almost see her Blue grass fields before me now our time for starting is set for tomorrow afternoon but we have so much to do I doubt if
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we get off for a day or two
Sat May 17th 1862 This morning I visited the Kentucky Regiments in search of acquaintances I found one only John Stone of Covington an old acquaintance of former days he was in the 6th Ky Reg and had enlisted last September he could give me no later news from home than I had heard by letter after spending an hour or so with him I returned to camp, having ascertained a way to send a letter to Covington and receive an answer I wrote one and delivered it for conveyance all very active in camp getting ready to leave. 40 others under Basil Duke expected to go
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July Account of M C Co
11 Loads of Wheat 18
12 " 18
13 " 12
14 " 11
15 " Oats 4
16 " Wheat 4
17 Sunday
18 " Wheat 5
19 " 8
20 " 7
21 " 4
22 Haul logs 4
23 Wheat 6
24 Sunday
25 Hauled logs
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July Hay 22
26 hauled logs
27 " Wheat 10
28 " 9
28 " 4
30 " 5
1 Hauled 4
2 hauled rock
3 Afternoon dug potatoes
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Oct 25 1870
To day our sabbath school colored for 1870 they give us out this Sunday for our premiumes which we gladly received and thanked for May the grace of god protect us thru the mutes that we may meet again in the spring and organize another school and god our beloved master we ask the to be
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July 1877
Borrowed of N. [?] 1.00
Louis Barnet
3 day harvest 1.25
½ bushel corn 1.00
" " .50
1 bushel 1.00
1½ bushel .50
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Act with H Barnet
1873
Jan 28 .50
Mar 11 .25
" 12 .50
" 13 .50
" 14 .50
" 15 .50
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June 20 Comenced Harvest
F 20 Joseph Coleman 1.50
S 21 " 1.50
M 23 " 1.50
T 24 " 1.50
6.00
F 20 Rufus Coleman .75
S 21 " .75
M 23 " .75
T 24 " .75
3.00
F 20 Miles 1.25
S 21 " 1.25
M 23 " 1.25
3.75
F 20 Mac Marsh'd 1.25
S 21 " 1.25
M 23 " 1.25
T 24 " 1.25
W 25 " 1.25
T 26 " 1.25
7.50
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[overwritten]
Account of A. S. Crown
Borrowed of A F [?]
June 27 5.00
[badly faded]
place. from Courtland we traveled in company with a portion of Col Morgan's command under Lieut [faded] In Decatur Ala nothing but the [faded] to the traveler where he once be [faded] Tennesee [faded] also lay [faded] with all the work of the incendiary troops of the Yankees destruction and waste nea [faded] have [faded] Decatur [faded] Wm Huffhines
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Act with U Barnet
Commenced work
March 17
to one [?] of 2.75
to flour at 4.10
to 100 m plaster 6.85
1.12
7.97
Balance 8.52
————————————————
This Book is the
property of
Mashal Cromie
Wheatland
Botetourt Co
Virginia
————————————————
Act with J Conner
————————————————
15 Oats 5
18 " 3
19 " 2
21 " 6
23 " 1
Jno Barnent
[corn tally]
————————————————
False prophets
Harvest Hands
Marshal
Grabill
[figures]
Joseph Coleman Rufus
————————————————
Hauled lumber
May feet
W 12 to one load 1485
T 13 " " 1500
S 15 " " 1520
T 18 " "
————————————————
1876 John White
Jan 4 to work 2.00
" 5 " 2.00
" 6 " 2.00
" 7 " 2.00
" 8 " 1.00
" 10 " 2.00
" 11 " 1.50
12.50
[?]
————————————————
1876 Tom Rose
[work tally]
————————————————
1876 Jo Hollard
[?]
————————————————
Act with Mat Bryant
Sep 18 to one day [?]
Oct 8 " corn
Dec 1 to [?]
Osker Banks
Mar 10 one suit 4.70
[?] " meat 102.00
[?] 12.60
18.40
[figures]
————————————————
May 10 1874
In Act Oskr Banks
H work come to 48.90
May 12 to meat 239
" 18 " potatoes 90
" " to [?] 150
August to cash [?] 800
Oct 31 to [?] 500
" to coth ch 290
" to shirt 300
Dec 1 " cap 50
" 1 to suit 400
" 1 to [?] 275
" 18 to meat 225
[?] 230
10 one barrel flour 600
10 meal " 720
10 corn 6 bush 48 410
[?] 250
————————————————
M 25 Ben Cal[?] 1.50
T 26 " 1.50
3.00
W 25 Woodson 1.25
T 26 " 1.25
2.50
F 20 John Read 1.50
S 21 " 1.50
M 23 " 1.50
T 24 " 1.50
W 25 " 1.50
T 26 " 1.50
1.50
10.50
————————————————
July 11 1870
Load of hay 32
11 Wheat 18
12 Wheat 18
½ dozen Matches
5 cents cinmon
1 [?]
2 lb coffee
————————————————
[?]
————————————————
May 10 1874
Oskr Banks
May
10 [?]
18 bushel potatoes
August one pair pants
1 to
the last year 4.00 pr
month d[?]
[?]
Oct 31 to one pair pants
to 18 [?] cotton
to one shirt
Dec to one cap
suit
Marshall Cromie
————————————————
1 pair shoes
[?]
1 pair stockings
1 pair [?]
Breast pin
Bleeded cottin
————————————————
[figures]
————————————————
4 lbs coffee
1 fan
1 bottle ginger
2 b crackers
1 net
1 box pills
1 b sulpher
1 pint brandy
camphor
————————————————
[figures]
————————————————
S [?]
April 24th 46¼ [?]
————————————————
Derey Smith
July 14 [?]
————————————————
Feb
12 To one day [?]
Mar 2 to one day [?]
M 9 "
March 9 to one day [?]
" 19 to one day [?]
Ap 18 to ½ day [?]
————————————————
Joseph Coleman
[?]
Feb 11 Ammy Barnet
21 to 2.00
April 25 butter 1.00
June 8 to one dress 1.25
July 31 In money 6.00
————————————————
Feb the 10 1874
Charlse Barnet commenced work this morning to work for one year for the sum of one hundred an ten 1.10.00 dollars and board for
Marshl Cromie
Feb 21 to one Box collars .25
" 28 " pair shoes 2.50
Mar 6 to 6 yards [?] 1.10
" 8 to 4 " [?] .90
M to cotton .80
F April 24 to [?] 10.00
" 25 to butter .25
" 29 to 30 bls 1.25
————————————————
Thresh for M Cronin
Oats 95
Wheat 83
" 50
[?]
————————————————
in Act with
Osker Banks
May 10 to one piece 1.70
18 10 potatoes .75
to one pair pants .85
August 1 to cash 5.00
Oct 31 to one suit 1.80
" 18 to cotton cloth 2.80
" " to one shirt .50
Dec to one cap .50
" 10 on suit 4.00
Mar 10 one piece 10 2.00
[?] to meat and flour 12.00
————————————————
Act Jacob Cruise
from Mill 14 bushel ½
" crib 8
Mar 19 [?]
————————————————
June 1873
Borowed of AH Cr
Orange [?] Co
245 Broadway New York
————————————————
Arther Flether
Nov 11 To one load wood .50
Nov 6 " " load three 1.50
————————————————
Spencre Coleman
Nov 11 to corn in the ear 1½ .35
Dec 16 to corn in the ear 2 .60
" 23 " 6 1.50
" 21 to one barrel flour 8.00
Jan 8 to one bushel corn .25
————————————————
Mary Wednesday 19
————————————————
Shirley
Bought [?] Leather 4¼ in
" Harness " 475
DATABASE CONTENT
| (3668) | DL1337 | Diaries | 1862 |
Diary of Washington C. Shane, Gano's Texas Cavalry, February 20 to May 17, 1862
Tags: Anger, Animals, Battle of Shiloh, Camp/Lodging, Capture of New Orleans, Confederate Nationalism, Conscription/Conscripts, Cotton, Crops (Other), Death (Military), Drilling, Duty, Elections, Enlistment, Excitement, Food, Foraging/Theft, Guard/Sentry Duty, Homesickness, Hygiene, Illnesses, Impressment, Injuries, Insects, Leadership (Soldiers' Perceptions of), Loneliness, Marching, Nature, Promotions, Railroads, Recreation, Religion, Sadness, Ships/Boats, Siege of Corinth, Supplies, Weather, Work, "Yankees" (Confederate opinions of)
People - Records: 1
- (5293) [writer] ~ Shane, Washington C.
SOURCES
Washington C. Shane Diary, 1862, DL1337, Nau Collection
