William T. Livermore Diary, 1863
No 4
William T Livermore
Co. B, 20th Regt
Maine Vols.
William T Livermore
Milo Maine
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Camp near Falmouth VA
March 16th/63
It is a mild day after breakfast I received my box that was sent from home which was split and badly stove up but found the things in nice shape Never had a pair of boots fit me so well before found a young Corporal in the box on a stretcher which was a great curiosity At 2 PM I went to the station and carried E L Chase knapsack and after shaking hands left him on the cars and returned to my tent and worked all the afternoon on my gun I invited friend Melcher and Lane to come in the
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evening which they did and I treated on chease butter cakes and apples I stood the little Corporal on the shelf in front of us we had a good time judging from my own feelings
I am very thankful for the things I received far more than I had expected
In the eve I received two letters one from David and one from E J Taylor Sory to hear that Fathers health is so poor
No news of importans HB Farris BF Bumps
Asa S Carver CE White
Examined to day
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March 17th
Orderd to poliece the grounds for an Inspection of streets the ground was polieced but not inspected I worked on my gun about half a day There was heavy Cannonading from 3 to 4 PM on our right ten or fifteen miles of
At 5 PM I went over to my old tent and found John Hodgkins and was as pleased to see him as if it had been my father After Parade I went over to the Maine 2ond with him
had a good time
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March 18th
Orderd to be ready for Inspection at 11 AM was inspected by Lieut Col Webb The Regt was in good condition
J E Bennett was carried to Hospital to day
The cannonading we heard the 17th was a Cavalry fight between Gen Averill and the Rebbel Stuart
March 20th
It is a cold snowy day Rept Camp wrote to David and Mr Rich in the afternoon
My health is good and am enjoying my self finely The contence of my box affords me a great luxury
All quiet here to day
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March 21st
It is a cold snowy morning Got some wood then kept camp as clos as possible Snowd some all day All quiet
March 22ond
The morning warm and misty Cleared of before noon warm and plesant Wrote home and to my Nancy Dear In the afternoon I received a letter from Charles & Mother dated March 13 was glad to hear that all was so well Thus passes another glorious Sabbath the sun goes down in splendor all well
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March 23d
The morning warm and beautiful it seems like spring Went to my Co and drilled them washed my clothes Received a paper directed to E L Chase
Reported in the eve that Charlestown S.C. was captured by our iron clads and land forces
March 24th
After Co drill I went over to my Co and found Calon T Livermore there was very glad to see him Ate diner with me staid with me til 2 PM had a fine time Had Batallion drill in the afternoon All well
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March 25th
Reveille earlier than usual The Brigade bugle sounded the alarm at 11 and 3 Oclock in the night we are orderd to be ready to march at a moments notice reported that the Rebs are crossing the river to attack us Good I hope they will Had Batallion drill in AM and Co drill in the afternoon
March 26th
Morning rainy had orders at 11 AM to be ready for Review at 1½ PM At the appointed time we fel in and marched about one half mile into a large field where
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our Division assembled It was a fine day and the troops were in fine condition Our Division is composed of 3 Brigades, each Brigade were drawn up in one line The Artillery on our extreme right we were then reviewed by Genrals Mede and Griffin Then we marched in review of themb as they took there position on an elevated spot They were followd by there Staff and body guard numbering from 40 to 60 It passed of very plesantly Arrived in camp at 4½ PM no news of importance All well
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March 27th
It is a lovely morning went out with my Co on skirmish drill in the forenoon and Bayonet Excersize in PM Had some sport in the eve had a sack race Put two men in sack made on purpose that come up round the neck then form a ring and give the one that would go a cross and back first 50cts At last they caught two little Negroes and put themb into the sacks every man cripples included were present to see the sport All quiet here today I am enjoying the best of health
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March 28th
Very warm had drill as usual
Dr Bennetts dismsal from the United States for incompetency was red on dressparade All quiet
March 29th
Mild and warm had drill as usual In the eve I received 5 letters one from D F L one from F P Livermore one from E J Taylor and one from A F Livermore
It begins to seem like summer the grass is quite green Nothing of importance to night All quiet
We expect to march as soon as it dry enough
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March 30th
It is a warm sunny day Had Co drill in the AM & PM wrote to Frank Livermore in the eve all quiet
March 31st
Had a snowy night and stormed snow & rain til 1 PM Then cleared of as beautiful as after a summers shower Wrote to E J Taylor
Finished a ring that I shal send to Charles
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April 1st 1863
Cold and windy Had drill as usual Received an April Fool letter in the eve All quiet
Very windy drew a pair of pants and stockings and Haversack Had Co drill in the forenoon and Batallion drill in PM
Sent G McLallen my old friend in Shaws Camp an April Fool letter Put in old paper enough to make double postage and got it franked
Received a letter from C C Taylor
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April 3d
It is a beautiful day Had Co drill in AM and Batallion drill PM Finished a ring for D. and made one for Andrea Paid 60cts for stationary and stamps Nothing of importance
April 4th
Cold and windy no drill to day got wood to last over Sunday wrote home In the eve I received two letters from home and one from Mr C W Rich and one from Nancy Emery that being the best of all it was a very good letter
Snowy in the eve
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April 5th
It is a cold snowy windy morning it was a snowy night 5 or 6 inches fel during the night The men that were vaccinated some two weeks ago are very sick Some of themb it prooves to be the Small Pox or nearly like it Some of our Co were and are now some sick But none carried to the Hospital there are about 30 very sick Wrote home sent 3 rings H S Melcher received his commission to day 1st Lieut of Co F
Thus passes another cold dreary Sabbath
I am well
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6th April
Cold and windy Lieut W G Morrill of Co B went home on furlough to day The Cavalry of this Armey were reviewd by President Lincoln to day They passed by our encampment a part of themb there was 17,000 reviewed Had drills as usual received a letter from Edward Ricker & C W Rich
7th April
Cold and windy Had orders to be ready for a grand review at 8 A.M. It was then countermanded and we were orderd to be
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ready for Picket in 30m The Regt got ready and were formed in line on the parade ground and stacked arms but were soon orderd back as the
[margin]
Lieut Lincoln died in tent of fever
Pickets were not to go out to day
But were orderd to fall in at 11.30 to be reviewd on our parade ground by Mr Lincoln At the appointed time the Regt were formed in a few moments however President Lincoln followd by some 50 or 75 Gens and Staff Officers rode about 2 rods in front of us We presented armes and gave him 3 hearty cheers He took of his Beever and bowd
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gracefully there was 75 or 100 Lancers following some 30 rods in rear Mr Lincoln looks care worn but I guess he will be able to get us out of our difficulty all right Staples was carried to Hospital very sick with Small Pox
8th April
Our Regt went out on Picket to day at 8 AM the Colors did not go out Allin of Boston was here with his new repeating Patent Rifle Britch loading he fired over one hundred times he will 25 shots a minute and kill a man 100 R every time he does not miss All quiet
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9th April
Mr Allin was here and fired 84 shots with his Rifle he is introduceing it into the Armey I hope this Regt will have some Safford and I went down to high Bridge across Potomac Cr and went up to the forts on the Heights wrote home in the afternoon
10th April
Sergt Lane and I went out to the Picket line in the morning it was about 3 miles found the boys all well came back and helpt him make out the muster rools the Regt was musterd to day Received a letter from Andrea Livermore
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11th April
It is a beautiful morn Regt came in from Picket at 12 Oclock A man from Co A died with Small Pox this morning in our Hospital Cleaned gun in PM reported attack on Charlestown All well
12th Apr
Morning warm and plesant went to the brook and washed all over and shifted clothes
Had Inspection at 10 AM at 11½ our Brigade and the 2ond went out and was reviewd by a Switz Maj Gen he was a smart looking Gen 2 men died last night with Small Pox
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13th April
Warm and plesant went on guard at 9 AM The Cavalry and packed mules were passing all day They have broke camp and gone in the direction of Kelleys Ford with 8 days rations Our Regt was inspected to day Received a letter from Charles and Mother 2 men died last night with Small Pox had orders in the eve that we should march the 15th all well
14th April
was dismissed from guard at 9 AM Orderd to be ready to march tomorrow with 8 days rations 60 rounds of cartridges
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and 100 rounds to be carried by packed mules drew new tent cloths all is buisy and exciting the baloon is up all day in the direction of F, G & a little to the left
wrote to Mary and Emma and commenced one home was inspected with every thing on 5 days rations in knapsack and three in haversack we know not where we shal go but hope we shal drive the Rebs this time and have confidence in Hooker believe he will follow themb up if he has a chance All well and in good spirits
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15th April
It commenced raining in the night and did not stop for a minute til night
The 1st Brigade went out on Picket to day wrote home Received a letter from E L Chase in the eve and set down and answered it we hear nothing about marching to day heard the account of the fight at Charlestown S.C. we have had such a rain I fear it will put us back we drew one days ration
16th Apr
It rained nearly all night but is fair this morning had Co drill in AM drew one days ration one man died last night with S. Pox 8 more cases
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17th Apr
Mild
had drill as usual
drew one days rations
all quiet
18th Apr
It is a warm day got excused from drill had a head ache drew one days ration Adj Brown returned from home after the expiration of his furlough received a letter from Charles and wrote in the eve
no signs of moving
19th Apr
It is a glorious Sabbath morning had inspection at 10 AM After Inspection went to the Dr and
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took a mettic to relieve my head
Walter G Morrill returned at 11 AM Capt we are all very glad of that and Lanes Com as 2ond Lieut George Lord Son of G was here to day well and cheerful All of the sickest of this Armey were sent to Washington to day
Had divine survices to day for the first time for 3 months received a letter from A.G. Chase G H Hitchborn came up to day from Alexandria left to Antietam MD The Small Pox is raging in this Regt there is new cases every day
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20th April
Weather misty
Had no drill all quiet
21st April
Weather warm got excused from drill in the AM 50 men detaild to build fences around the Small pox Hospital in PM George Hodgkins & W. Hobbs were here in the eve with but 3 days more only to surve in the Army They feel well
2ond Lieut F W Lane received his commission and has gone in with Capt Morrill All quiet
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22ond April
Weather quite cold
Had no drill in A.M.
New cases of Small Pox every day
Adj J.M. Brown left us to day he is promoted to a Brigade as Staff of Artillery we shal miss him very much
23d April
Weather warm had order to pack our things and strike tents and be ready to change camp after diner
we picked up our traps and about 2 PM we took what little housing stuf we had and all of our clothing 8 days rations and walked
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we crossed the Rail Road and went ¾ of a mile onto a high hill and pitched tents
It is on account of the Small Pox the Hospital is left and all the sick we are of duty as a Regt and will not go if the Armey does we have got a pretty camp I fixed our tent so as to be comfortable for the night
Apr 24th
Weather rainy had a heavy rain in the night lay in bed til after 8 AM then got up and ate a little hard bread then lay down again and slept til 2 PM
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it is a smart rain Signed the Pay rolls in the PM It is a cold uncomfortable day all well
25th April
It is a fine morning after breakfast we tore our dog tent down and built a new one got it done at 1 PM Frank E[?] was over from the 6th Me None is allowd to pass the guard except by a commissioned Officer glad to hear of the recapture of the Queen of the West
26th April
Weather clear and cool had inspection at 10 AM and meeting at 2 PM Governor Coburn and
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Hon John M Rice were here in the PM they went round to all the tents and shook hand with all the boys I wrote home
I have such a cold that I can hardly speak but feel well
27th April
It is a lovely morning I finished my letter home and put it in the office the troops commenced mooving early our Corps I went over to the 118 PA and saw the 2ond Maine boys as they passed they looked rather sober The 13th N.Y. of that Brig did not march there time is up tomorrow they
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came out without arms and cheerd every Regt of there Brigade as they passed I went into the abandond camp to plunder it did not look like a deserted camp ground the most of the tents were standing as the men drew new tent cloaths
I seized a fly tent canvas and picked up a few things which my eager hands would not leave I took some nice clean drawers and shirts which were hanging on the line clean
I took a frying pan and new pair of shoes that were never worn and boot brush which I sold for 1.15 a part of a box of hering a new cotton and silk
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handkerchief 50 or 75cts worth of candles spoons knives forks looking glasses ink pens pencils I took only what I could use There is no end to the things left They have been here all winter and bought every thing they wanted and when they come to march they must leave themb Thousands of dollars worth left in every Regt I come back with my spoil and after diner Safford Coan & Day of the guard and I went of prospecting we went through the Brigade I got a new blouce worth 2.50 we picked up a library of books Army regulations History of the United States Pirate books novels Pilgrims Progress &c &c we found a stove to the 2ond Maine and brought
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of funnel and all The men left nearly all of there over coats and hundreds of blankets rubbers clothing and dishes of all discriptions came back with as much as we could lug and I not being satisfied with seeing nor my hands with grasping went back and got a table and hard bread box I have such a cold in my head that I cannot talk went to the doctor and got some checking powders known in the army as an all healing balm for all diseases I received no letter from home I know nothing of where the Armey have gone but suppose they have gone to Kelleys Ford I retired at dark being weary and feeling almost sick
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28th Apr
Turned out earlier than usual felt better than when I went to bed but can not speak and have to whisper tore down our tent and made an adition for a sleeping room The canvass that I got yesterday is thick and nice and long enough to put over and cover the roof and walls built a nice bunk of timber pools and boughed down then put the rubbers and blankets down in profusion Then had about 7 feet square in front of the bed set up our stove which is a nice sheet iron one runing the funnel out the top of the tent
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then put up our table of planed pine boards Then stacked our books portfolioes pens pencils combs glasses etc &c. Aranged our cupboard and shelves and made hooks of wire to hang things on Stewd some beans on the stove for diner now every thing is complete but a floor which we shal get soon it rains some to day
We have got the best tent we have had since we have been in the Service I commenced reading the history of the United States red 74 pages Towards night we could see the troops marching to the left
There is a few new cases of Small Pox
I feel some better
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29th April
Weather warm and foggy Safford and I went over to the camp ground of the 13 N.Y. and got some boards and laid a floor in our tent
The Regt was paid in AM I received only 3 dollars per month as I allotted 10 home got 4 months pay There was some skirmishing on our left this morning we could hear it it is reported that our men are in posession of the Heights on the Fredericksburg side Commenced a letter to A G Chase in the eve no new cases of Small Pox All hands well
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30th April
Weather warm and misty All quiet in AM in the PM the troops commenced marching by our camp it was the 3d Corps they have got there position on the left and this Corps the [?] was sent to the right there was a great number of batteries they will reach Kelleys ford before morning report that our Cavalry is in there rear and have destroied there rail road and have cut of there supplies wrote to E & A Ricker
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1st May
Weather clear and warm Orderd to be ready for Inspection at 9 AM we fel in and listend to speeches by Gov Coburn John M Rice and Mr French of the T had Batallion drill at the same time About sunset we heard heavy canonading which lasted til 8½ in the eve Supposed to be in the Rebs rear
2ond May
Morning fair
At 7 AM the firing commenced on our right and left and continued about 2 hours The most of our Officers have gone out to the
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front Lieut Lane went acros the river near Fredericksburg went to the 6th Maine one of themb was killed and another wounded had orders to have 3 days rations on hand and be ready to march at a moments notice but we do not think we shal march The firing commenced again near night and lasted til 8 Oclock in the eve All well and in good spirits
3d May
Weather warm and beautiful
The first thing I hear in the morning before day light was the bugle to strike tents before rool call we turned out and went to my Co and found that we were to march as soon as we could get ready went back and
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commenced picking up our things which were laying all over the tent we took the most needed things and before we got our things picked up the assembly was sounded Hartson took my two coats and I only wore my blouce The guard was left in charge of Lieut Melcher Maj Gilmore took the 3 left companies and went one way and we under Col Chamberlain marched tword Falmouth The canonading comenced before sunrise on the left in front of Fredericksburg As we passed we could see ours and the Rebs batteries and the line of Infantry but could not hear much of it as the wind blue Thus we marched on without
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eating enny breakfast we marched to Bankses Ford about 3 miles above Falmouth Going near the river we could see the rebel rifle pits and themb in themb There was very heavy canonading near Fredericksburg til near 9 AM when a furious engagment commenced on the right which was just above us we could hear the musketry we did not know what we were out for but soon found out as we countermarched and relieved the 18th Maine which were guarding the telegraph wire from Hookers Headquarters across the river to Falmouth They were guarding a number of miles we stoped to rest and about 200 Rebs
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the 23d Georgia Regt all but the right Co and Col they had the Lieut Col and Maj They were a dirty looking set Some were very good looking men but some were verry old and others were verry young we talked some with themb I found William Taylor and talked with him a few minutes A Negros wife and 5 children passed us from there masters
Fredericksburg was taken and all the Heights and works back of it at 10 AM There was a terrible fight on the right Gen Berry was killed with many others reported which we do not know certain At 4 PM there was an attack made in front of us by our men
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it was about 2 miles from here we could see it plain it was a terrible fight of Infantry and Artillery which lasted about 1½ hours the Rebs fel back The color guard stopd in a large building used for a barn or store horses Some wounded came along and 5 staid all night we made themb as comfortable as possible and lay down to rest thus passes a Sabbath long to be rememberd
4th May
Weather fair
I was roused from my sleep at day brake by the roar of Artillery which kept up for about half an hour which we learned
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was a Rebel battery shelling our wounded they knew where it was posted and there they showd there cruelty it is said we took the battery and some prisoners Fredericksburg was retaken in the morning by the Rebs Heard the sad fate of the 6th Maine over 200 killed and wounded 3 Capt and Maj It is said we are in bad shape to day there has been some cannonading all along the line but no gen engagement There has been hundreds of wounded passed as we have been talking with themb all day they tell some tough stories our Surgeon has gone to the right volentierd
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his service wrote home There was a desperate fight across the river in front of us just dark the 6th Maine were engaged and had a hard time Some Regts skedaddled Some swam the river and came up all wet and frightend most to death After going to bed were told that some Rebel prisoners were coming we turned out and saw 500 there was 2 Cols 2 Majors and some line officers
There are thousands of straglers the 2 years men and 9 month men some of themb would not fight because there time was out in to few days
I am well but feel blue
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5th May
Weather warm and beautiful On getting up found that the 6th Corps had retreated to this side of the rappahannock The batteries were passing and pontoons amunition wagons Some 32 Pd Seig Guns passed I saw one of the 6th Maine boys and found where they were and went up and found themb Calvin and George Gardner come out with out a scar they said they never saw a hard time til last night they were attacked and driven into the river or under the banks the only way of escape They have sufferd dreadfuly lost 200 in killed and
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wounded The whole Corps is badly cut up The Rebs ocupy the other side of the river we can see there scouts and pickets cruising around there is lots of our wounded in there posession About noon the Rebels threw some shells into a park of Artillery and baggage wagons which were about 100 rods from us there was skedaddling among themb I guess we have had the hardest battle of the war whether we shal claim the victory or not remains to be seen At 4 PM we had a powerful shower the rain fel in torrents and continued all night they say our whole Army is recrossing the river It is reported that Vicksburg
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was evacuated by the Rebs who were sent to oppose us in this advance if so we may claim a victory there we lay down feeling almost discouraged
6th May
Weather rainy we mooved our quarters into a slave house close to the planters house Col Chamberlain came down from the right all tired out and lay down himself he told us the sad fate of Moses Warren drummer of Co A he was to the right of the Army at US Ford and picked up an old gun barril supposing it was not loaded
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found some cartridges and turned in some powder then put the breech in the fire and held on with both hands to see the powder go out but it prooved to be loaded but know not how menny cartridges were in it went of bursting the barril the whole length taking one hand all of and tearing the other so badly that both were amputated at the wrist Poor fellow bore it patiently
I went into the mans house and wrote home we were orderd at 2 PM to pack up and be ready to fall in as the Regt was coming we got harnessed up and wated til 4 PM it was raining fast and we fel
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in as the Regt came down we followd the telegraph wire and the boys fel in as we passed When darkness came on we were 4 miles from our camp the rain fel in torrents Thunder roared and lightning flashed and it was as dark a Egiptian darkness the mud from 2 to 10 inches deep and every valley and brook was full of water We got lost and wanderd through bushes brooks mud and the rain falling fast there was tents and lights in every direction we had to cross one brook or a pool Some got in and come near drowning Some lost there guns &c &c &c &c
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We reached our camp at 10 in the eve. When we left camp we left the tent over our bed standing and found things in better order than I had expected We threw of our things and coverd our tent we were wet all over but spread down and turned in at 11 Oclock Soon after Lieut Melcher came to the door and asked if I was there I asked him in he brought me a dish of hot cayan tea as he knew I was wet and could not heat ennything then he is all I could wish or expect of a Brother
Every man calls it the worst time we have had since we were in the survice The Army is back in there old camps again how discouraging it is God only knows our destiny
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7th May
Weather clowdy and quite cold Turned out and built a fire and repaird our tent I went to the brook and washed some clothes or rinsed the dirt out of themb cleaned our rifles I finished writing home and sent the letter and a book that I found which was taken from a dead Rebel Had orders at 11 AM to have guns cleaned and cartridges dry and be ready to march at an early hour in the PM
Eve I received a letter from D F and Charles dated Apr 22ond which has been on the way almost 2 weeks No further orders dressparade at 6 PM All well &c &c
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8th May
Weather cloudy
Wrote E J Taylor in the AM drew 2 pairs of stockings Orderd to have 8 days rations There are some troops on the moove we cannot tell when where or whether we shal march or not but think if Hooker does not attack the Rebs will One man belonging to Co H died last night with Small Pox at S.P Hospital Co drills at 9 AM and 4 PM the color guard know nothing about it All well and in good spirits
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9th May
Weather fair
Had Batallion drill at 9 AM cleaned gun in AM and after this went over to the ME 2ond found the boys all well received a letter from Ella & Emma & David Sory to hear that Mother is sick G Lord of the 11th regulars was here to day
10th May
Beautiful Sabbath Had Inspection at 9 AM Wrote Uncle William Taylor in AM William W Livermore was here in PM had religious services at 4 PM
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and Prayer Meeting in the eve
Col Ames has returned to our Regt again 9 months to day since I left home
11th May
Weather uncomfortably hot Had Batallion drill in AM wrote home and had Batallion drill in PM we packed our overcoats and put themb in bbls and will send themb to Washington The 25 NY Regt is under guard about 100 rods from here they refused duty and are rept without rations the 18 Mass guard themb
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12th May
Weather clear and hot had Batallion drill at 9 A.M.
9 months to day since I inlisted M Warren & Seth Roberts of the 1st Maine Cavalry were here this forenoon
Richmond is reported taken by a force from York & there is quite an excitement we hope but dare not believe it is so
The Rebels called on us for Medical Supplies and requested that there us to take our wounded and it is from good authority that we have got 1,200 to day from Fredericksburg
The 2 years men are going home
[margin]
2 Regts went down on the cars to day The 25 NY still under guard
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13th May
Weather fair and warm
was inspected at 10 AM with knapsacks haversacks canteens by 2 two officers of Stocktons Staff There was orders came around this morning from Hooker or Gen Butterfield Chief of Staff that Stonewall Jackson was dead 4 Regts went down on the cars to day the 17th NY of our Brigade The Philadelphia inquirer anounces the death of Gen Vandorn and one other Gen no news All quiet
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14th May
Weather warm
Had Batallion drill at 9 AM and 4 PM
The 25 NY is still under guard two Regts went down on the cars to day Had a Prayer Meeting in the eve Orders for the Regt to go out on Picket at 9 AM tomorrow All quiet
[margin]
G A Skillings was orderd under guard to walk before the Sentinel 2 on and 4 of for one week, night and day for lossing his drum in the last Battle
15th May
Weather warm
Regt went out on Picket at 8 AM the Color Guard did not go but I was detailed for guard had a good time The Batterys near here mooved it is said it is to be organized into two Artillery Corps
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16th May
Weather clear and cool day I went over and got our Ambrotypes taken but was not taken well
Then Lieut Lane and I went over to the 2ond Maine Ate supper with George Hodgkins Nathan D and A Jameson
Sergt Pratt was taken very sudden last night and is now to Regt Hospital I received a letter from Charles dated May 10th
The 25 NY were glad to take arms after being under guard one week with little or nothing to eat The prospect is now that the Army will lay here some time
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17th May
Weather fair and warm
Regt came in from Picket at 12 oclock Had no inspection It is Sunday and I feel as though I should like to go to meeting but have none Col A Ames and Lieut Melcher have gone to Aiquia Crick to take command of the forces there consisting of sevral Regts
doing guard and Provost duty Wrote home in PM Thus passes another week as rapidly as ever Time never seemed so short as it has since I have been in the Army Fly swift away ye wheels of Time and bring the welcome day
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18th May
Weather fair
Had orders to be ready to fall in at 6½ Oclock AM Our Regt marched to Stonmans Swich to escort the 17th NY Regt on board the cars the whole Brigade were present they left at 7 AM Towards night Lieut Lane went over to the 2ond Maine where we found another detachment of Co B our advance We stoped til after roll call and had a fine time The 2 years men feel well but the recruits feel bad
no news of importance
All well
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19th May
weather warm
At 7 AM our Regt fel in and marched to Stonmans Swich where we joined our Brigade which is now in command of Col S. Vincent It is reported Col Stockton has resigned we marched about 1½ms where our Corps was reviewed by Gen Mead & Butterfield then returned to camp After dressparade 6 or 8 of us went over to the 2ond to see the boys for the last time in VA found themb in good spirits Staid with themb til 10½ in the eve then returned to camp and turned in All well
[margin]
Jackson Miss reported taken by Grant
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20th May
Morning clear and cool At 6 oclock we heard the beating of drums and on looking out saw the 2ond escorted by the 18 & 22 Mass marching past us towards Stonmans Swich unexpectedly Our bugle sounded to fall in and our Regt fel in before eating breakfast and marched to the Swich where we stacked arms and went and shook hands with the boys feeling glad for themb that they are on there way home But still feel sad to part with themb We cheerd
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themb and received harty cheers and Tigers in return til they left While we were there three Negros got to fighting about 10 rods from us they fought with knives and resulted in the death of one it appears that two were against one But the one stabed one of his opponants in the breast which enterd his heart with a long knife killing him instantly and chased the other and stabed him in the back but did not kill him he then threw his knife and run to the woods they have not caught him we marched back to camp and after eating breakfast got a pass and Miller
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our Regimental clerk and I went to the 19th ME found the Regt near Falmouth Station where I found cousin William in good health he was just from Picket I ate diner with him had some current and goosbery sauce &c &c
After diner we walked down to the Rappahannock opposite the west part of the city the city comes down to the river on the other side but on this side there is only one house and that known as the Lacy houce which cost $75,000 it is a brick mansion intended for a dwelling house
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The houce is 1,75 feet long built in the most costly way his Negro houses were brick buildings and very nice He was a Major in the Rebel Army but has been killed in battle On this side opposite the city the land is quite high and one has a splendid view of the city As William had been there all winter was posted and told and showd me many things which I should not have otherwise known A few rods out of the city and just behind a Rebel rifle pit was the Tomb of Washingtons Mother the high monument was as distinctly seen as the spires of the churches
———————————————————
We walked down seeing the Rebels on the other side of the river near enough to shoot us with rifles Some were playing some in boats some fishing and others walking through the streets I saw one or two women but it looked like a deserted city in deed every house small or great showd the mark of the bombardment every house was pierced with from one to 50 cannon balls and shells We went in to the Lacy houce then went to the graves of the men that were killed laying the first pontoons in Dec which were burried in
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a long row north of the houce there was 30 or 40 There was where our seig guns were planted in the last battle all along We then went back to camp feeling well paid for my walk There are many things that I should like to mention but they are to numerous Miller and I then took the rail road home or walked on the road reaching camp before sunset feeling somewhat tired We are orderd to change camp to morrow at 7 AM To march near our old Picket line some 4 miles I then posted my diary and returned in by the singing of the whippowills and beating drum and bugle All well and in good spirits
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21st May
Weather warm
Struck tents at 7 A.M. and took up our beds and walked I will not attempt to describe our loads but the Ladies that know nothing of soldiering would pity a poor horse or mule if they should see such a load on there back But we knew we were not going far and wanted to take all we could in order to have good tents where we stoped We arrived in the big field where the rest of the Brigade were all ready pitching there tents Our Brigade was in a straight line and all
———————————————————
the Regts jamed close to gather into stre There is only 4 Regts in this Brigade and now in command of Col S Vincent of the 83d Penn he is a fine fellow The Pioneers Color Guard Drummers were orderd to there Companies as there was only 10 streets allowd to a Regt I went to my Co and went in with N & W Cummings and am well pleased we built a nice tent N & I went over to the old ground in the PM and got a table and cupboard It is very warm
All well and in good spirits
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22d May Widdow Green's Plantation
Weather warm
After breakfast went to the woods and cut pools and built our bunks Then got boughs and made us some nice bunks It is a wall tent about 3½ feet high the wall and two bunks I sleep alone The Brigade is all buisy fixing there tents We learned to day that Col Ames is promoted to Brigadier Gen and Melcher is going with him as Assistant Adjutant Gen I am sory to re loose Melcher Col Stockton is about to leave us his Regt presented him a sword here to day
[margin]
One recruit from the 2ond Maine came in to day
———————————————————
23d May
Weather clear & W
Cleaned my rifle in AM Received a letter from home & one from Andrew Ricker The news from Grant near Vicksburg is very encouraging The recruits from the 2ond Maine came in to day A few volunteerd but nearly all were marched under guard of the 118 Penn with loaded rifles All that come into our Co volanteerd. A James was one Lieut Melcher returned to the Regt to day All are highly pleased with our situation We are enjoying all that soldiers are capable to enjoy
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24th May
It is a beautiful Sabbath morning and we get ready for Inspection but had none to day Glorious news from Vicksburg. I bought a paper stating the great victories of Gen Grant which is truly cheering and in all probbability Vicksburg is in our posession Wrote home Had a Brigade dressparade The whole Brigade were all in line of battle The drum Corps of each Regt united which numberd about 40 or 50 The Adjutants reported to the Adjutant G and none but the field officers mounted saluted the Gen It was quite nice
[margin]
A dispatch to Col Chamberlain states that Grant is in posession of Vicksburg after all had gone to bed
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25th May
Weather warm
Had no drill
In the PM bought a Chronicle and read the glorious successes of Gen Grant about Vicksburg hope the next news to hear the full surender of the place Grant is the man Received a Courier from home All well
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26th May
Weather cool and clowdy
Had Co drill in AM and Brigade drill in PM for the first time had a hard drill News from Vicksburg favorable Got a cold by playing ball and feel some lame. All quiet
27th May
Weather clowdy
Went to the brook and washed 2 shirts 2 pair stockings one pair drawers We have Brigade Guard Mounting Wrote William Farris for Hartson Batallion drill in PM News favorable from Vicksburg
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My Birth day
28th May
Weather warm
Had Co drill at 6 AM the recruits were orderd to drill and all but a few did Those that refused were taken to the guard hous At 12½ the order came to have our knapsacks packed and be ready to march we packed themb and at 7 PM the bugle sounded to strike tents We had no idea where we were going as we supposed we should stay a long while But we marched to United States Ford a distance of 10ms
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Halted at 10 in the eve and took of my shirt which was wet with sweat and put on a dry one lay down on the ground The next morning we went into camp about ½ mile from the Ford worked nearly all day on our tent I tent with W & N Cummings It is quite a good camp ground and as good water as we have found in VA The prisoners of the 2ond are here under guard We had a Picket Guard go to the river which relieved the cavalry Pickets
At night there was 100 men detaild to dig rifle pits in front of the Ford 50 worked til midnight & the rest til daylight
[margin]
News not very encouraging from Vicksburg neither
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39th May Widow Smiths Plantation
Weather clear
My tent mates were relieved this morning and we completed our tent After diner Sergt Crocker & I went down to the Ford where our boys dug the rifle pit in the night before It was a splendid pit about 3 rods from the shore we walked up and down the river The Rebels lay on the other bank close to the water they could have shot us if they chose to Col Chamberlain was there in plain sight Some of our boys went out half way across and shook hands with the Rebs Frees of our Co was one Lieut Melcher & Lane and some
———————————————————
other officers and myself went in swimming I swam nearly half way across the river and had as leves gone across as not The Rebs lay opposite with there rifles in there hands We have a good rifle pit in front of the Ford and all the roads have been blocked up with trees that our boys have fell to prevent themb coming over We have one battery of brass howidtzers to guard this Ford. At night we had a scout of 20 detailed to go down the river to see that no scouts of Rebs came over they stood all night we got no mail to day
[margin]
We get no news from Vicksburg All well &c Etc
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31st May
Weather clear and cool
Finished my letter home I received a letter after diner from Andrew Etta and Emma with 13 stamps and a paper of mosquitoes At 3 PM we marched into the green woods At Headquarters for religeous survices There has another scout gone out down the river this eve Had a Prayer Meeting in the eve which was very interesting Received a letter from Mary Whitney
Our boys have been over to the Rebs to day we get no news from Vicksburg to day All well and in good spirits
[margin]
Thus May goes out with the lovely Sabbath
———————————————————
June 1st
Weather clear with a refreshing breeze
Wesley and I got a pass and went out on a scout We went to the Eagle Gold Mines It is quite an extensive work there has been a shaft sunk 200 feet There is a large steam engine and a balance wheel 50 feet in circumfrance to grind the quartz it paid well and was in opparation til one year ago The machinery has been greatly damaged by the soldiers
[margin]
The mine is owned by men in NY & Boston There is 6 houses close by we went up and talked with the men that were very friendly
———————————————————
This is Stafford County we killed a black snake 6 feet long that was crossing the road The swifts are as thick as frogs in Maine They are rightly named for they are the swiftest creatures I ever saw We visited one grave yard in a little grove of red cedars that had the appearance of being very old As we returned we stoped to a house close by our camp and noticed a little grave yard in the garden of 6 graves There was boards to the head of 5 of themb and all from different states one C A Fogg Co G 17th Maine one 1st Mass one Penn one Mich one Connecticut the other was not marked they all died between the 3 & 7 of May they were mortaly wounded and
———————————————————
taken there where they died We are on the Smith Plantation he is dead and his only son was in Fredericksburg last fall and has not been heard from since Mrs Smith and 3 daughters remain here An old Negro woman spoke with us as we past her cabin She has been sold 3 times she has lived here 20 years her husband died 12 years ago She has had 8 children and they have all been sold South but one and he was in a mill at Fredericksburg last fall and she has not heard from him since She said she was about 100 years old I should think she was 80 certain She has a little grand child here in the house but she is a very handsome little girl some black and the women keep her out of sight fearing the soldiers will take her we returned well sattisfied
[margin]
In the eve Lieut Bickford Lane & I went back to the gold mine as they wanted me to I bought a canteen full of milk Paid 35cts talked a long while with the men & women All well
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June 2ond
Weather fair
Had a breakfast of bread & milk the first for a long while I strolled around all the forenoon and after diner 6 of us got a pass and went down in swimming we had a fine time I swam half way across the river & Rebs beside one Officer lay on the shore looking at us In this field about 30 rods from our camp is where our Hospital was shelled in the late battle About half a mile from here is a little house where 13 of our Cavalry was captured by the Rebel Cavalry last fall I saw the ball holes in the
[margin]
house and trees where they fought I got some cherrys to day that were about as large and nice as tame cherrys They are called May cherries
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3d June
Weather clear
Mooers one of the 2ond Maine recruits that was assigned to Co H & the ring leader of those that stood out was courtmartiald to day he was marched 10 miles to the C.M.L. by C C Durgin and one private with rifles loaded and caped and orders to shoot him if he attempted to escape
Got a paper but contained no news from Vicksburg Had Parade at night The only duty I have had is to go on Parade two nights for a week Our sutler was shot up this morning for celling his goods at different prices
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4th June
Weather beautiful
Had orders at 8 AM to have knapsacks packed and be in readyness to march We packed our things and at 10 we marched up the river on the Warrenton road Marched 11ms and halted at 4 PM near Grove Church
Built a temporary tent for the night dug a hole in the ground and put a pail of beans to baking The 2ond boys were marched under guard We were relieved by the 150th NY of Syxes Div We passed some beautiful plantations and some fields of rye headed out and in the blossom peech orchards breaking down under there loads of young fruit
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5th June
Weather quite cool
Had a breakfast of baked beans At 10 struck tents and marched from out to two miles & relieved the 9th Mass that was guarding Ellis Ford
We went into a beautiful growth of white oaks & walnuts where we pitched tents and we had as good a one as ever worked all the afternoon and got our tents done just night H Farris A Carver W Brown D Hanscomb O Green B F Bumps were left back
All well
I bought a map of VA which I shal send home tomorrow
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6th June Ellis Ford V.A.
Weather clear and beautiful
Company's A, B, C went to the river for Picket this morning but I as usual keep camp Went to the brook and bathed There was heavy cannonading* at Fredericksburg It is said we are in posession of Fredericksburg There was cannonading this AM up river said to be a fight at Beals Station Our sick boys came up this afternoon H Farris B F Bumps Asa Carver W.C. Brown D Hanscom O Green Jennison & others They have had a hard time Hartson was unable to walk Wrote & sent a letter & map & a paper to Andrew & received a letter from Charles & received a paper Pickets came in in the eve All well
*The cannonading was last night or in the afternoon
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7th June
Weather fair
Orderd to be
ready for inspection at 9 AM but was soon countermanded and orderd to have our knapsacks packed and be in readiness to march which we did expecting every moment to be called in In the afternoon A Jameson & I went with Hartson to the Hospital two of us had to help him he is very sick
It is Sunday but seems unlike the Sabbath as all is buisy drawing rations &c &c In the eve I strolld out alone went down to our battery that is planted on this side of the river I went down to our rifle pits The rebs are all along on
[margin]
on the opposite shore but there is nothing to be seen of Artillery but it is supposed they have flying Artillery that they ran up after dark to oppose us if we should attempt to cross in the night but it is out of sight before morning
———————————————————
8th June
Weather cold
It was so cold
I was uncomfortable and could not sleep with my pants & coat on and one woolen blanket Hartson was taken from the Hospital last night I do not know where he has gone
Asa Carver went after noon There was a soldier found dead to the mill near here shot by the guard as all the cittizens have been arested The news from Fredericksburg is favorable but we do not believe what we hear No signs of marching Gen Ames our old Col went past last night with from 3 to 5 thousand men & considerable
[margin]
Artillery probably gone to Kelleys Ford 8 or 10 miles above We get no news from Vicksburg or the rest of the Army. All quiet here and all in good spirits B F Bumps was taken from here to day
———————————————————
10th June
Weather clear and warm
Wrote E L Chase in AM
The sick & lame boys drilled forenoon and afternoon recomended by the Doctor and orderd by the Col news from Vicksburg looks favorably
Lieut Nichols went on officer of the day drunk and had his sash & belt taken from him Our Co go out every night and play ball one or two hours. I drew a rubber blanket Some of our boys crossed the river and got some horses & hogs to day All Quiet and all well
———————————————————
11th June
Weather cool and clowdy
Companys H, A , B went on Picket at sunset All quiet The Rebel Pickets that were withdrawn from the river the day of the fight have returned
[margin]
Read McLellans Spy or Pauline of the Potomac 100 pages
12th June
Weather fair
There was a great excitement to the right of the Regt in the night The mules got to gnawing and kicking hard bread boxes which frightend the Adj so he jumped out of bed and run to Capt Clarks tent and they turned the Co out and the Adj run to the guard house and asked why they did
———————————————————
not give the alarm They told him they had heard nothing He said there had been more than 100 shots fired But it was soon found to be nothing but poor Mule Ya
E. R. Sanborn that left us at Antietam, MD. joined us to day
The Pickets came in at night All quiet
13th June
Weather fair
I went out with the Co on skirmish drill in A.M. Then polieced our camp and parade ground Wrote home Had orders to be in readiness to march at night or early in the morning
———————————————————
Morrisville VA
But as the red in the west was fading away we found our selves on the march
The most of the sick were left as they could not take themb with ambulances I carried there knapsacks to the Hospital and left themb We halted at 12 oclock at Morrisville our Brigade
14th June
Weather fair
packed knapsacks and lay in the field til 1 PM wating for the ambulances supply and Artillery to pass We marched to Weeversville halted at 8 Had a hard march But I stand it well It is said there was a fight at Manassas Gap to day it is evident that the Rebs are making an advance into MD again and we expect to have a fight to Bull run before it is over All well
———————————————————
15th June Weeverville VA
Weather clear not a clowd appeared in the sky during the day
Had reveille at 3 & marched at 4 AM. It is said we are orderd to Washington to take the place of Heintzleman who has gone through MD to meet Lees Army We struck the railroad in the morning near Catlets Station Along where we passed is where we had a fight last summer at the 2ond Bull run There was the ruins of the train of cars the Rebs burned found old minie balls on the ground We had one of the hardest marches we have ever seen though they rested quite often where we camped last night our whole Div closed in mass There was thousands of dollars worth of stuf burned and distroied
———————————————————
every man threw away some knapsacks blankets tent pieces coats caps &c &c. We were careful to destroy every thing we left and when we left the grownd looked like a field of buckwheat with the bunches all on fire about as thick But on we marched without any water except stagnant water we have not found a spring since leaving Ellis Ford It is a level barren desolate runout country We halted to rest very often and left some of our comrades strewd along sun stricken but not a man could fall out and we left themb panting alone We halted at Manassas Junction at 12M 3 of the color guards fel out They would have gone farther but the men
———————————————————
were falling out and it would not do we marched into the woods and halted and all the water we could get was as thick as cream I had a bottle of pepper sause and I put it with my water all day that and cayan which kept it from hurting me After making some coffee I took my canteen and tent mates and went 1½ mile and got some cold water from a well 20 rods from here is from two to three hundred men burried that was killed here last summer 4 rows 15 rods long as thick as they could conveniently be lain.
drew fresh beef this afternoon It is now near night and I sit under the shade of a little sasafras tree to put a very partial and incorrect account of our march down since leaving Ellis Ford
At sun set our Regt was orderd out to make a reconaissance We marched 1½ miles east and all but 2 Companies were sent out in different directions Color Guard kept north the Reserve
———————————————————
16th June Manassas Junct.
Weather weather clear & warm
Had a good nights rest and turned out at sunrise and had a great feast on cherrys and the most that I ever saw except [?] cherries they were about as large and very nice
The Pickets came in at 10 AM and were relieved by the 16th Mich and we marched back to the Brigade expecting to march every minute But no orders came and we remained for the night I feel very well
17th June
Weather fair and hot
At 6 AM our Div fel in and we marched on towards Centerville passing through all the old Rebbel fortifications At Manassas Junct
———————————————————
Next we came to Centerville and there on Centerville Heights was the strongest works I have ever seen Before this however we crossed the Bull Run stream below the old battle ground After leaving Centerville we inclined to the left We marched 9 miles in AM then took the road to Broad Run where we halted about 6 PM a march of from 20 to 25 miles
I threw away some of my things had it not been for a strong refreshing breeze which favored us all the afternoon we could not have gone so far There was not half the Brigade in the ranks At 5 PM there was cannonading and supposed to be at Leesburg it continued
———————————————————
more than one hour I went to the Run and waded all over It is reported that Lee is in Pennsylvania I think he will find it as hard as they did last fall It is now about as dark as it will be to night and I scrabling on an oak log I have not been tireder since I have been in the Service But in good spirits At 9 in the eve 50 prisoners were carried or marched by us that was taken in the fight Col Douty of the first Maine Cavalry was killed. The Col of the 25 NY of our Div 1st Brigade was sun
Our sick boys were taken to Alexandria to day John Lyford was taken prisoner yesterday by guirillas that attack the rear of the train
———————————————————
18th June
Weather very warm
Our Brigade lay in the woods except the 44th which is on picket The boys are scowering the country but still they are generous they go into a mans door yard and kill his veal calf and dress it and give him one mess such as they can afford and keep the rest But I do not go out unless we are short of rations Col Douty's corps was carried past here to day and ambulances & baggage waggons loaded with the wounded Col Chamberlain is very sick this morning and has been taken to a house about one mile It is the affects of the sun on him yesterday Had a thunder shower at night I feel pretty well to day
———————————————————
19th June
Weather moderately cool
Our Regt went out on Picket relieved the 44th about one mile from the Brigade on the Leesburg Turnpike The Color Guard remained with the left wing of the Regt which was in reserve in a nice grove Our boys went out forageing and brought in sheep veal & beef At 2 PM our Div marched and halted at Aldie at night after 4 miles march here is where the Cavalry fighting commenced Our Div formed and went into line camp in line of battle. Pitched tents Had smart shower in the eve We are close by the Bull Run Mountains The Maine Cavalry was dreadfully cut up to day 5 officers were killed.
———————————————————
20th June Aldie V.A.
Weather clowdy & rainy
The 2ond Div came up after dark now our Corps lay in line of battle facing the Gap There is some of the Maine Cavalry around here here is where the fighting commenced and I saw large piles of Cavalry sabers and carbines that were picked up from the field some were Rebbels and some ours A man belonging to Co M said M Warren was mortally wounded and back to Stone Church one mile back
Lieut Lane & Beal Leonard went back and saw him He is shot through the body and probably will not recover About 30 Reb Cavalrymen went past here to day prisoners including 3 field Officers I saw themb
———————————————————
Cavalry fight near Upperville
21st June VA
Morning Clowdy
Had reveille at 7 oclock AM and were orderd to take 3 days rations and blankets but leave our tents standing We left our tents knapsacks and some other things behind. At 3 AM we marched to Middleburg passed through the town about 5 and our Brigade under Col Vincent went to the left and marched about 1½ miles through the woods near the Rebbels. At 8½ our batteries opend on themb but received no reply Our Brigade then formed in line of battle the 20th on the left and advanced to the edge of the field where we met the Rebbel Pickets dismounted Cavalry Co E
———————————————————
were deploied as skirmishers in our front and advancing drove themb back Our Brigade then charged across the field which was fenced with high stone walls As soon as we appeard the Rebbel battery opend on us sending there shells among us but on we went climbing stone walls and did not halt til we came to Goos Crick close to the Rebbel battery and found we could go no farther and were orderd to lay low behind a thick high wall They sent there grape & canister & shells into us with but little injury A cannon shot took away Corp West of Co Gs leg which killed him and wounded 3 more
———————————————————
in the Regt But as soon as our battery got a position they had to skedaddle we drove themb along They had nothing but Cavalry and Artillery They were afraid of our Infantry & we had a heavy force of Cavalry At 6 PM we had driven themb through Ashbeys Gap Our Brigade was the only engaged & we were on our feet all day til 6 when we were relieved and we fell back one mile for the night They took all there dead & wounded that they could but they left some of both on the field I saw a Maj dead on the field and there was a Capt close by we took two pieces of cannon
———————————————————
and some prisoners they lost a great many horses I saw 7 dead ones lay where one gun set they were obliged to leave the caisson We lay down weary but feeling finely we had seen the Rebs run for the first time and gone over there ground seen there battery horses piled up We drew a plenty of fresh pork near night This was in Lowdon Valley the most lovly part of VA The fields of wheat from 10 to 36 acres almost ready for harvest Grass in good order to be cut was trampled down Stone walls thrown down and the whole rout laid waste The end of the Sabbath
———————————————————
22ond June
Weather fair
At 9 AM our Brigade fel in and marched back to Middleburg our Cavalry commenced falling back early At 3 PM we were back to our camp ground at Albie The Rebbels followd our rear and it is said 500 were taken prisoners that advanced too far and were flanked by our Cavalry Cal Corner Lieut Col Corner commanded us he is of the 44 NY Our Col & May were both sick he is one of the finest fellows I ever saw perfectly cool brave and careful of his men Our loss was one killed & 5 wounded All well and in good spirits Wm
———————————————————
Aldie
23d June
Weather clear
Spent all the forenoon cleaning my rifle washed my self and clothes bought a paper in the PM containing the Sundays fight Nothing has been heard of John Lyford and we have had no mail for 11 days
Got a pass from my Capt and Clark comanding the Regt to go and get some cherrys but just as I got to themb Col Webb saw me and told me to fall in with a squad that he had picked up outside the Picket line I presented my pass but he told me to show that after I got in camp We marched to Brigade H.Qrs.
[margin]
and was sent to my quarters I was not under guard This was the first time I ever was picked up or halled out of camp and I had a perfect right out then All quiet
———————————————————
24th June
Weather mild
Arranged our tents & polieced the ground in the Regt went on Picket at 5 PM All quiet
25th June
Weather fair
Went to the Picket line in AM. Regt came in from Picket at 6 PM All quiet
26th June
Weather rainy
Reveille at 4½ AM 2ond Div struck tents in the night Our Div struck tents at 5 & marched at 6 AM halted and took diner at Leesburg and ate diner at 2 PM Leesburg is quite a large town and strongly fortified
———————————————————
Marryland
After leaving Leesburg we marched to Edwards Ferry going in sight of the memorable Balls Bluff crossed the river on a pontoon bridge at sunset and marched 4ms into Marryland in the eve After marching from 20 to 23 miles It rained some all day and the going was muddy There are several Corps [?] of us now John Lyford came up at night He has not been a prisoner but got separated from the train
I stood the march remarkably well
27th June
Weather clowdy
Had reveille at 4 AM & marched at 6 towards Harpers Ferry Came to the Monoxey River and were orderd to take of our
———————————————————
pants The whole Div crossed at the same time the river is about as large as Sebec Stream from one to 3 feet deep and very rapid Had a gay time I never saw a field of wheat til today We passed thousands of acres some is cut and in the shock We halted after marching through Buck Town at sunset after a march of 20ms Safford my tent mate fel to the rear He was unwell Our whole Corps lay here togather in the field
No mail
28th Camp near Fredrick City, M.D.
Weather clowdy
Drew rations cleaned our rifles and washed up in AM Had inspection at 12 oclock Requisitions were made and we are prepairing
———————————————————
to meet the Rebs 2 Brigades of the Penn Reserves that have been around Washington past us to day at 1 PM
had a meeting in PM Saw a man drumed out of the Regulars his head was shaved and a board on his back with Coward in big letters & he was drumed through the Div by the Rogues march got a mail the first one for 16 days one letter & 2 papers from home
29th June
Weather Clowdy
Our Corps marched at 4 AM went through Frederick City marched by plattoon Colors flying the Stars & Stripes were flying from most every windo there was hundreds displaid We took the Baltimore
———————————————————
road marched a while then turned to the left marched through Liberty which is quite a town Some ladies waved there handkerchief others wishing more to benefit the soldiers than to look pretty stood at the gates with water for us as we passed. We came two miles past the town & halted for the night Our Color Sergt C Proctor got drunk and could not carry the colors & was reported and taken in by the rear guard it took three men to get him along I hope he will be broke & probably he will
This is a lovely country It seems more like a civilized land than VA does Marched 18ms All well
———————————————————
30th June
Weather clowdy & rainy
Had reveille at 3 & marched at 4 AM marched through Johnsville Union Town Middleburg passed the 2ond Corps After noon we took the road leading to Union Mills Our Regt was at the head of the column At Middleburg our right & left Companys E & G was thrown forward on our advance right & left which made it very hard they took turns or were relieved often There was some Reb Cavalry here to day At 3 PM our Regt let the 44 pass themb which did the skirmishing The people seem rejoiced to have us come One Brigade looks large to themb The Rebs
———————————————————
took about every thing they could get in some cases they offerd to pay in CF Scrip which was considered worth nothing We halted at Union Mills at 5 PM after a march of 25ms some say 30 there was 7,000 Rebbels left here to day the last at 11 AM They have gone to Westminster The Rebbels told the people that when the Yankees come along they would burn there buildings and kill there children as they did in Virginia The people are very friendly cell us all the milk eggs pies that they can spare reasonable We are now 4ms from Pennsylvania line There was cannonading in
———————————————————
the direction of Hanover Pa There is lots of guides Cittizens that go with us It is sport to hear the old people talk about the Rebs one old lady 70 years old came out to the road to day said the Rebs had Calvory and two Artillerys & right smart of men [smudge] with guns
The Rebs stole a great many horses Col Chamberlain has returned to duty He has been promoted to Col Col Lieut Col Gilmore is sick yet
———————————————————
List of Letters Written June
Home 6
R W Jameson 9
E. L. Chase 10
Home 13
Home 20
2ond Edition 24
Home 28
———————————————————
Letters Received June
Charles EL 6th
Maria Ricker 7th
Home from Charles 13th
Home 2 paper one letter 28
Written by
William T Livermore
of Co B 20th Regt Maine Vols
3d Brigade 1st Division
5th Corps
Army of the Potomac
Residence
Milo Maine
W T Livermore
———————————————————
3
Maj Gen Hooker
May 3d Battle at or near Fredericksburg
July 2ond In line of Battle before Gettysburg Pennsylvania 1st 5th 6th 11th 12 Corps are here
There will probbably be a great Battle
to morrow
DATABASE CONTENT
| (15296) | DL1567 | Diaries | 1863 |
Tags: Abraham Lincoln, African Americans, Artillery, Battle of Fredericksburg, Camp/Lodging, Cemeteries, Clothing, Courts Martial, Death (Military), Destruction of Land/Property, Drilling, Duty, Excitement, Family, Fatigue/Tiredness, Fighting, Food, Furloughs, George B. McClellan, Happiness, Hospitals, Illnesses, Ironclad Warships, Mail, Marching, Medicine, Money, Monuments, Nature, News, Newspapers, Payment, Picket Duty, Prisoners of War, Railroads, Recruitment/Recruits, Religion, Rivers, Sadness, Scouting, Ships/Boats, Siege of Vicksburg, Slavery, Supplies, Telegraph, Thomas "Stonewall" Jackson, Ulysses S. Grant, Vaccinations, Weather
People - Records: 1
- (5328) [writer] ~ Livermore, William T.
SOURCES
William T. Livermore Diary, 1863, DL1567, Nau Collection
