Sullivan W. Gibson Diary, 1865
S. W. Gibson
Co D. 1st N.Y. Dragoons
2nd Brig 1st Cav. Div
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Sunday, January 1, 1865.
Marched before daylight this morning passing through Harpers Ferry at which place we crossed the Shenandoah on a pontoon bridge. Marched along the side of the mountain to Lovettsville and camped at 4 pm ½ mile above Lovettsville on the pike Expect to build winter quarters here. Got straw and made ourselves comfortable as possible. A cold winter day. Had bad roads and suffered some from the cold. So New Years like Christmas was spent in the saddle and we hope to spend the next one at home
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Monday, January 2, 1865.
Went to work early this morning and cut logs for a tent working hard and as we had good timber we got out and drew up logs enough for our tent by noon It was rumored that we are going to move from here. A cold day with some 6 inches of snow on the ground
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Tuesday, January 3, 1865.
This morning had Reviellee at daylight and at 8 am had Boots & Saddles and marched back through town and out a mile on the Watertown road and camped in a piece of timber near a small stream of water and in what appears to be a good place for winter quarters Went out and got a few boards and also commenced to cut logs for the quarters. A pretty cool day and night.
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Wednesday, January 4, 1865.
Went off after boards again this morning and got a few poor ones by going three miles. Fanning & James Bishop went to Berlin on a pass after a stove and returned at night without being able to get one. Worked on the shanty getting it up several logs high. Very cold and windy to day and the snow is drifting some. Got a letter from home
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Thursday, January 5, 1865.
Worked hard on the quarters to day and got it up the full height and ready to put on a roof. At 4 pm got orders to go on picket and went out on the road half a mile and relieved Co A. Had 4 posts in the night and 3 in the daytime 12 men in all. A cool night but light and pleasant and grew warm towards morning During the night the pickets were attacked on our right were attacked with what result I dont know
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Friday, January 6, 1864.
Early this morning went to work on the quarters that is Fanning & Cronkhite. Commenced to rain at about 10 am and rained hard and steady till midnight. Were relieved at 4 pm by K Co and came into camp cold & almost done Went to bed early to keep warm and slept well.
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Saturday, January 7, 1865.
Went to work again while Holly went with Bishop to Berlin after a stove. About noon moved into the quarters in a driving snow storm. Cold and extremely unpleasant.
Just before dark Holly returned without a stove as they had none that suited him I built a fire out doors and spent the evening there. Blowed very hard and snowed too but stopped in the night.
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Sunday, January 8, 1865.
To day we worked hard in building a fireplace and got it completed by night. Built it of stone and built it large. Cold and freezing all day. Got no mail
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Monday, January 9, 1865.
The fireplace does not work well but smokes very badly and we dont know how to remedy it. Wrote a short letter home in the evening. Cold and somewhat windy. The 4th squadron is on picket and to-morrow it is our turn
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Tuesday, January 10, 1865.
Reviellee sounded at 2 am and in a driving sleety rain we saddled up and at 5 am about 125 of our Regt including myself left camp and joining a detail from the 17th Pa we went out on the pike to Goose Creek settlement some 12 miles from camp and the column halted while a small scout went on to Snickerville I think. Returned from here and got to camp about 7 pm cold and wet. Stopped raining about noon. Froze all day
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Wednesday, January 11, 1865.
Did not have Reviellee till daylight this morning when we took care of our muddy horses and then proceeded to tear down our fireplace and build it partly over. Cool and freezing yet with a high and piercing wind. Just before noon we were detailed for picket and 16 from our Co went out on the Waterford road. A very cool windy night we had of it I wish no disturbance on the lines
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Thursday, January 12, 1865.
Were relieved from picket at 11 am and came into camp Find that a large detail has gone after forage. The furloughs have come for the men who are going home and Dewolf and Clark start to night for home After we came in built the chimney up some higher but yet it smokes. Grew some warmer and the wind went down some towards night
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Friday, January 13, 1865.
Spent the day quietly in camp though Holly was out on detail after brick. Worked hard on the stables most of the day and made pretty good headway.
Got a letter from home and two papers. Pleasant and not very cool
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Saturday, January 14, 1865.
This morning took my dirty clothes off to be washed and also worked several hours on the fireplace. About noon got orders to saddle up and go after forage Returned after dark having been to the Point of Rocks. Very cool with a terrible cold raking wind. No news
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Sunday, January 15, 1865.
Sat down this morning and commenced to write home but was soon detailed to go off after lumber and went some 5 miles out in the country and got part of a deserted house for the officers. I returned just before dark A cold but pleasant day. The people are all in their Sunday best and think the soldiers are "rough" to work on the Sabbath. Finished my letter in the evening and got orders for a scout to-morrow
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Monday, January 16, 1865.
Our squadron was saddled and ready for the march at 4 am and at once reported to the Maj of the 17th and with another detail went on a scout passing through Goose Creek Hamilton & Waterford and making a rapid march of over 30 miles returned to camp about 2 pm without seeing the enemy It was a terrible cold wind square in the face and we suffered some from it. The remainder of the Regt stayed in camp
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Tuesday, January 17, 1865.
Had an order for inspection at 10 am and the Regt was inspected at that time. I was detailed to go with a detail of 10 men to Brig Hdqrs to work on a hospital Worked till nearly dark and returned to camp. A very cold raking wind with a few flakes of snow flying.
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Wednesday, January 18, 1865.
Spent most of the day in building the stables and quit it at sundown. A tolerable pleasant day with no news
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Thursday, January 19, 1865.
Had an order for an Inspection by the Corps Inspector but after fixing up it did not come. Pleasant with a very cold night. To day we got the news of the fall of fort Fisher. Holly is on guard
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Friday, January 20, 1865.
Got orders early to go on picket but for some reason did not go till 3 pm. The whole Co nearly went out and went to the usual place. Had a cool and dull night but still No disturbance on the lines
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Saturday, January 21, 1865.
Commenced to storm this morning a cold sleet and turned into hail and then snow. We were relieved from picket at 3½ by Co I and came into camp in the storm. Remained inside the remainder of the day.
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Sunday, January 22, 1865.
A pleasant cool winter morning with the snow several inches deep Determined to spend the day quietly without work if possible Wrote to Sarah Gibson and during most of the day remained quietly in my tent The first till Sabbath in a long time.
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Monday, January 23, 1865.
Came on guard at 10½ am and in a driving sleet storm which has been raging all night. Had the third relief and had three posts in the day, four in the night. Before night there were six men carrying rails for different slight offences two from my Co. Had a pleasant evening and did not sleep a wink.
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Tuesday, January 24, 1865.
Was relieved from guard at 10½ am and remained in camp the remainder of the day. Did out my washing and retired early Quite a cold day and a rough windy night. The officers are having a sort of a pow-wow again to night.
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Wednesday, January 25, 1865.
This morning the most of the squadron went on picket at the usual place But the line was thrown out some distance farther. I had charge of the alarm post and relieved the men from camp every hour. Sat up till after midnight some time A very cold night indeed great Northern winter weather. Had a mounted drill before picket to please Maj Scotts brother.
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Thursday, January 26, 1865.
At 2½ am waked up Sergeant Hibbard who relieved me till morning. A very strict order from Maj Scott is just going around It relates to water call stable call &c. The boys came in at 3 pm hungry and cold. Was very sleepy but could not sleep
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Friday, January 27, 1865.
This morning every man has to go to work on the stables again and I had charge of a detail of 5 men cutting poles in the woods. Tis terrible cold and we got no forage for our poor horses. The ground frozen so hard that we progress slowly with our work.
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Saturday, January 28, 1865.
Went on guard this morning and had the third relief. Very cold indeed and the wind is blowing sharp. Holly went to Sandy Hook with condemned horses and Cronkhite & Fanning went off after forage. Had twelve prisoners in the guard-house and keep them building a brushwork around camp.
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Sunday, January 29, 1865.
Was relieved from guard at 10½ am and spent most of the day in my tent. Grew somewhat warmer in the night. In the evening washed and changed my clothes The stables are progressing faster now and will be comfortable when done. We get no mail at all now for what reason I do not know
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Monday, January 30, 1865.
At noon our squadron went to the usual place on picket. In the forenoon worked on the stable. Twas a comfortably warm day and we had the reserve near a straw stack Had no disturbance but as we only had three reliefs it was pretty tegious as it was cold and chilly in the night. Some one brought me out two letters and papers from home.
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Tuesday, January 31, 1865.
A warm sunshiny day for the season and we slept till we got the headache. Were relieved by the 2nd squadron at 2 pm and returned to camp. Find they have worked hard on the stables in our absence. Was quite unwell all the evening with a headache.
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Wednesday, February 1, 1865.
Commenced in the morning to work on the stable and worked faithfully all day. We progress finely and have a good stable. Pleasant and thawing and a nice contrast to the late cold weather. No news
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Thursday, February 2, 1865.
Did not work a great deal to day though it was warmer and thawing. At 4 pm was detailed for stable guard and had two men from Co H one from our Co. Did not sit up all night but let them relieve themselves. Got a letter from Sarah with her photograph
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Friday, February 3, 1865.
The men continue to work on the stable but I dont do much to day but to relieve the guard. Pleasant enough and warm. Wrote a letter to aunt Nerisca.
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Saturday, February 4, 1865.
At noon the Co went out on picket but I did not go then. Attended stable call and was then detailed to go out with a relief of 5 men to reinforce the pickets Had a very windy cold night of it and was on the line 4 hours. Got some papers from home.
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Sunday, February 5, 1865.
Were relieved from picket at 2 pm. It was a cold windy day and we were glad to get into camp Co G relieved us and were an hour behind time.
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Monday, February 6, 1865.
Spent the day quietly in camp and wrote a letter. Very cold wind blowing and rough for pickets Wrote to Sarah but did not send it out. A detail went to Berlin from the Regt.
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Tuesday, February 7, 1865.
This morning at 8 am went out with a large detail under Lieut Coy and went to Point of Rocks with 17 wagons which we loaded with hay. Snowed every moment and blowed making it very rough and we were indeed glad to get back which we did at two pm. A hard night and the snow was about a foot deep. Went on stable guard at night
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Wednesday, February 8, 1865.
Was relieved from guard at 4 pm. A cold windy day indeed and the snow flies freely. Wrote a long letter to Elisa Morris A good deal police going on in camp
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Thursday, February 9, 1865.
Cold again this morning and windy Most of the Co were sent on picket but I staid in charge of the alarm post and sat up all night. Cold and I relieved every hour. Got very sleepy towards morning No mail for me to day
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Friday, February 10, 1865.
The Co came in at 2 pm having had quite a cold night of it. Did not get any mail neither did I write any. Grew somewhat pleasanter during the day
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Saturday, February 11, 1865.
Spent the day quietly in camp except that I went out after straw in the afternoon. Warmer and thawing Shoveled the snow off the stable All quiet with us.
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Sunday, February 12, 1865.
A very quiet day indeed and we did nothing except the usual camp duty Cold and snowing hard becoming by night a foot deep and growing very cold with a high wind
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Monday, February 13, 1865.
Last night was I think the coldest night of the season and I slept very cold. Was detailed for picket and went out at 1 pm to the usual place. Genrl Devin was outside of the pickets on a visit. Intensely cold and very still and clear. Had three reliefs only
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Tuesday, February 14, 1865.
During the night a scout of two squadrons under Maj Scott went out to Leesburg to break up a rebel ball. It was intensely cold and we suffered though we stood one hour tricks. During the afternoon the scout came in having been to late to accomplish very much except to capture two men and 8 horses killing one man. Were relieved at 1 pm
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Wednesday, February 15, 1865.
Warmer and hailing nearly all day and very unpleasant out Wrote to George a long letter and sent it out. During the afternoon was detailed on stable guard. Were under orders for an inspection all day but owing to the storm it did not come off
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Thursday, February 16, 1865.
Pleasanter this morning and the inspection was ordered to come off which it did at two pm Had Inspection by the Cavalry Inspector for the U.S. who said it was the best Regt he ever inspected. Got no mail and hear no news of importance During the afternoon was detailed off on fatigue with 10 men at cutting timber for mule stables
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Friday, February 17, 1865.
This morning at 3 am our squadron and the 5th were awakened and at 5 am left for the camp of the 17th where we joined a large detail and went out to Hillsborough and on the road to Harpers Ferry and met a wagon train about 6 miles from Harpers Ferry and guarded it in to camp. A very foggy chilly morning but finally grew warmer. Saw no rebels but was on advance guard all day. My birthday making me 20 years old
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Saturday, February 18, 1865.
Growing warm and thawing and the 5th squadron went on picket Went on guard at 10½ am and got the 3d relief. Got no mail. Somewhat windy at night and the officers are having a drunken dance Several of them have their wives here
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Sunday, February 19, 1865.
Was relieved from guard this morning at 10½ and spent the day quietly The squadron went on picket to day Warm and terribly windy
General Devin with an escort of two squadrons from our Regt went to Waterford to church and on a visit
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Monday, February 20, 1865.
The Co came off picket at 1 pm and the day was spent quietly in camp. Got no mail but got papers with the news of Columbia being in our hands. To day I nearly finished my stable floor and the boys are doing all they can for that purpose
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Tuesday, February 21, 1865.
This morning at 8 Oclock we started with Co E for a brick kiln near Point of Rocks where we loaded up three wagons and returned by a little after noon Quite cool to day In the evening got papers saying that Charleston was in our hands
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Wednesday, February 22, 1865.
Washingtons birthday and a salute is being fired at Harpers Ferry in honor of that and our recent victorys Warm and terrible muddy. Quiet in camp but no mail for me. Did my washing and wrote a long letter home.
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Thursday, February 23, 1865.
Went on picket to day and came at the usual place. A rainy wet day and quite unpleasant on picket I had charge of the 3d relief and we had 4 reliefs Just after dark we heard that we were to break to-morrow but dont believe it
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Friday, February 24, 1865.
Heard Reviellee in camp very early and knew that we were indeed to break camp. Went in by reliefs to pack and at about 11 am were relieved and went to the regt. We took the road to Harpers Ferry around through the mountains marching twenty miles and halting after dark two miles from the Ferry, and spent the night lying on snow a foot deep. Quite warm and thawing in the daytime but cold at night.
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Saturday, February 25, 1865.
Revielle very early and at daylight marched off through Harpers Ferry, Charlestown and finally through Berryville making 3 Thirty two miles and halting two miles from Winchester. Rained most of the day a cold sleet and we were indeed glad to camp at dark. Passed a tolerable night though it rained all night and I was on guard too.
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Sunday, February 26, 1865.
This morning had a late Revielle and soon marched off through Winchester and halted two miles from town in the poorest place I ever was in for camp the slush being about a foot deep Finally got ready and laid down sleeping cold and damp
During the night drew rations and forage Just at dark I sent my old diary home and also a very short letter.
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Monday, February 27, 1865.
Had an early Revielle and and soon had Boots & Saddles Drew 3 feeds oats and 5 days forag rations and at about 10 am finally marched with the rest of the Corps and passed through Newtown Middletown Strausburg and Woodstock and then camped having made over 30 miles. The Corps is in command of Merritt and we saw Sheridan himself Halted at 7 pm and had an awful muddy camp
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Tuesday, February 28, 1865.
Saddled early but did not move out till 8 am Marched through Mount Jackson and had to lay a pontoon bridge to cross the Shenandoah. Were detained here some time but just at dark crossed and marched on passing through Newmarket and finally camping at 2 am and after a while lay down and slept till 5 am when we saddled Merchant was on guard. Tolerable pleasant but quite muddy.
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Wednesday, March 1, 1865.
Marched at daylight and passed Harrisonburg Mt Crawford &c and at the bridge our advance drove off the enemy killing several and taking thirty prisoners They tried to burn the bridge but failed We also took several wagons loaded with ammunition &c.
Made a long march and camped at sundown 5 miles from Staunton. Got forage at night and slept comfortable. Did not storm
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Thursday, March 2, 1865.
This morning had as usual our early Revielle and soon marched through Staunton where our men were destroying much public property and turning to the left left the pike and marched about 6 miles in the most horrible going I ever saw the thick red clay being knee deep for the horses camped Our Regt was rear guard all day. Heard the sound of Custar fighting up ahead Got hay only for forage to night. Rained hard all day and night
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Friday, March 3, 1865.
Had Revielle early as usual and moved out in a hard rain and the road was perfectly awful Heard that Custar had gained a victory yesterday and on coming to Waynesboro saw 1200 prisoners a great many wagons and 10 or 12 cannons passed through Browns Gap and saw the tunnel and marching on long after dark about 2 am camped 7 miles from Charlottesville where Custar is already. The bridges on the RR are being destroyed &c. Rained hard all night again The trophies with many dismounted men were sent back to Winchester
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Saturday, March 4, 1865.
Lay here resting our horses and ourselves till afternoon and forage details are kept but with good success Afternoon we saddled and marched to within one mile of Charlottesville and camped Forage plenty here Cleared of this morning after raining hard all night and a drying wind is blowing
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Sunday, March 5, 1865.
Remained here in camp all day and cleaned up horses and guns after the horrible mud and rain A fine day and our horses are resting some though details were sent after forage A party of 4 men of Co H were attacked at a house and Sergt Whiting killed one man wounded and one taken. Also several other men from the regt were captured My horse is very lame with the rotfoot
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Monday, March 6, 1865.
Boots & Saddles early this morning and we moved through the town where we saw Sheridan and Merritt with 12 rebel flags. Our Div took a road and pushed rapidly through to Scottsville a distance of 22 miles Here I went out with a forage detail and when I got back the Brig had gone and so we lay down near the Regulars and spent the night pleasantly in sleep. The Brig pushed on to Howardsville Pleasant again
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Tuesday, March 7, 1865.
This morning we saddled at daylight and having found the Lieut with the rest of the detail we joined the 1st Brig and marched up the canal. All the locks and storehouses with all the other buildings on the canal and a great many mills &c are burning. Also boats and much other property is being destroyed Marched 27 miles and joined the Regt on the river near Hardwicksville Our regt made a forced march to get the bridge but it was burnt before them
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Wednesday, March 8, 1865.
Revielle early again and we went down and worked hard tearing out the canal feeder General Sheridan & Merritt are here and were with us destroying. After noon we stopped and our Brig at once started off on a rapid march passing through Scottsville and marching all night made some 55 miles by daylight. About 3 pm commenced and rained all night hard and as the mud was deep we had a hard night of it.
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Thursday, March 9, 1865.
At daylight and after the hardest march we ever saw we halted at Columbia and went into camp. Horses and men are alike worn out and I spent most of the day in cleaning and taking care of my horse. I came on camp guard but at sundown was relieved to go with the Co on picket Relieved the 4th squadron. Cleared off this morning and was pleasant.
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Friday, March 10, 1865.
Remained here on picket to day and are resting up our horses and drying our clothes In the afternoon the force began to come in and go into camp Got plenty of forage here and our picket duty is not hard. Our horses are much recruited after their great march Remains pleasant
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Saturday, March 11, 1865.
This morning joined the Regt and then with the rest of the Brigade marched on a scout through Dogtown to Goochland C.H. a distance of 18 miles. Here we drove out a party of rebels and our advance charged them 4 miles capturing 15 of them. Laid here till dark when we marched back arriving at Columbia and going into camp at 1 am A pleasant but cold night
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Sunday, March 12, 1865.
This morning the whole command marched out and making quite a long march through a country poor and covered with forests crossed some river supposed to be the North Anna marched a few miles farther and camped about 10 Oclock During the night I had to get up and draw 6 days rations of coffee and sugar Tolerable pleasant to day
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Monday, March 13, 1865.
This morning we moved out early and after marching a few miles struck the RR and the whole force commenced tearing it up. We tipped it over then piled the ties up and bend the rails on then fired it. Many miles were destroyed in this way. At dark we marched on a few miles and camped. I went out two miles and got some corn for my horse Tired to night and slept well
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Tuesday, March 14, 1865.
Our Regt had Revielle early and moving out at daylight joined the reserve Brigade and marched off rapidly in advance. Late in the afternoon reached Taylorsville Depot and halted our squadron going on picket. Our advance went on and crossing the river captured three pieces of cannon Several large RR bridges are being burnt here Went into camp at dark that is the command We remained on picket
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Wednesday, March 15, 1865.
The Brigade moved out early this morning but we remained on picket about an hour and then joined the regt after running several miles to find them. Passed to day through many miles of old breastworks built by the enemy last summer. At the river there was every appearance of a battle we all being formed but our Division soon left, forded the river and marched till dark and camped. Heard that the 3d Div had a skirmish there Are out of meat
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Thursday, March 16, 1865.
Had an early Revielle but did not move out early as we had to wait for the train to pass Marched through a very poor country being unable to get any provisions and at night halted about dark. Rained hard in the night and Merchant was on guard. Warm to day.
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Friday, March 17, 1865.
Marched early this morning and sent out forage details and fortunately got rations of meat and flour. Marched through Elliott and King William C.H. camping early two miles from here. Forage plenty Warm and pleasant
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Saturday, March 18, 1865.
Revielle early again and after the wagons marched to White House a distance of 8 miles and camped early ½ mile from the landing Warm and pleasant again to day. The whole Corps is here that is 1st & 3d Div & a Brig of Inf is across the river and several gunboats are here
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Sunday, March 19, 1865.
Contrary to our expectations had Revielle early and soon crossed the river on the RR bridge and after some delay camped on the south side. Another fine day and we drew rations Also drew forage
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Monday, March 20, 1865.
Remained here in camp and during the afternoon the dismounted men were sent off Several horses were condemned and sent off and it leaves the Regt very small indeed I came on guard in the afternoon Wrote a letter home
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Tuesday, March 21, 1865.
Laid here in camp drawing some rations and forage again A warm day The dismounted men have not yet left the Landing Warm to day I made out a requisition for clothing
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Wednesday, March 22, 1865.
Terrible windy and quite cool. Quite early we had Boots & Saddles and went on picket nearly our whole Brigade being on. Went but nearly four miles and stood on a hill. I am quite unwell and my horse will neither eat nor drink. Had a false alarm in the night
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Thursday, March 23, 1865.
Were relieved from picket at 11 am and came into camp The wind is blowing a perfect gale and it is almost impossible to keep up a tent Learned to day that Col Thorpe is exchanged and hope he may join us as we are heartily sick of Maj Smith. The paymaster commenced paying the Brig. Got mail to day and I got 6 letters & two papers.
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Friday, March 24, 1865.
Remained in camp and in the morning went after it up to Brig Hdqrs and drew $155.45 pay and in the afternoon sent $150 home by paymaster. Drew rations and forage also and this afternoon things are being put on the boats and preparations are being made to leave here. Wrote a long letter home and one to Sarah
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Saturday, March 25, 1865.
Had an early Revielle and at sunrise moved out the 3d Div in advance. Marched to Jones bridge crossed and marched through Charles City C.H. camping before sundown after a good days march a few miles from the river and above Wynoake Landing A cold March wind blowing and I am quite unwell but stood it through. Merchant is on guard.
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Sunday, March 26, 1865.
Broke camp early this morning and marched up the river road passing the Inf pickets at Harrisons Landing and striking the lines north of the James crossed the river at Deep Bottom near the scene of one of our enemy engagements. Another windy unpleasant day. Camped early between the rivers James & Appomattox and had a tolerable night of it Saw gunboats and much Inf.
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Monday, March 27, 1865.
Very early Revielle but did not move very early. Passed many Inf camps then the Appomattox on pontoons and marching along the line to the left of Petersburg camped quite early on the RR to the left of the line. Drew no forage Heard of the fighting here recently.
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Tuesday, March 28, 1865.
Remained here to day and I was busy all day drawing and issuing rations. Also we drew forage. The Army of the James are passing to the left wing and a great part of the Inf are under marching orders We have got orders to move in the morning. I came on guard at night and wrote a short letter home Warm day but cold at night. No mail
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Wednesday, March 29, 1865.
Had Revielle at 4 am and soon saddled but did move out till 8 am when we marched at the head of the Div. Passed Reams Station and marched within a mile of Dinwiddie C.H. and camped just after dark Roads are very full of holes and slow marching During the night it rained very hard but I had up a tent and did not get much wet. Saw some Inf on the march on our right.
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Thursday, March 30, 1865.
This morning had an early Revielle and marched soon after daylight moving slowly and passing the 2nd Div. In the forenoon the 1st & 3d Brig's were skirmishing and in the afternoon we formed a line and had a little skirmishing when the enemy charged on our left and drove the 20th but were soon checked At dark we withdrew our line and finally after dark formed a picket built barricades and (our squadron with the 6th NY) stood picket a few rods from the enemy. Rained hard all night Had horrible management and never a worse time on picket
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Friday, March 31, 1865.
An awful night on picket and raining steady During the morning we built some barricades and some of the Brig was dismounted. Quite heavy skirmishing went on till about noon when the rebel Inf flanked us and by hard fighting drove us rapidly back several miles when we took a side road to Dinwiddie and stood to horse all night. Saw [?] Div were fighting us One man only wounded in the regt A hard day as we were for once whipped
[margin]
One man wounded some captured in the Regt
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Saturday, April 1, 1865.
This morning advanced to our old position and dismounted sending the horses back Soon advanced and found the enemy posted behind barricades. Charged and [?] at them and took several prisoners Again advanced found the enemy strongly entrenched and formed a long line skirmished heavily all day. At 4 pm the bugles sounded the advance and the whole line Cav & Inf charged and after an obstinate fight carried two lines of works with several thousand prisoners cannons flags &c. After some time we camped on the field Sheridan was present and great as ever. Thank God for our victory.
[margin]
A great victory and our Regt took one flag & hundreds of prisoners Nills Merchant was wounded in the shoulder Maj Smith wounded and Capt [?] in command
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Sunday, April 2, 1865.
This morning saddled early and at 9 am took a road to the left and struck the Southside RRoad tore up a little of it Then marched on west and had a little skirmish. Advanced again and from then till dark were driving them from one place to another taking a few prisoners & wagons At dusk they made a decided stand and for an hour there were sharp carbine and artillery fighting as they were entrenched went into camp late Were tired and hungry. Heard very heavy firing on the right all the forenoon Pleasant & warm
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Monday, April 3, 1865.
Got mail this morning and I had two letters from home Saddled early but did not march till 10 am when we marched off towards Burksville Custar in the advance Crossed many bad streams and marched steady Got some corn for forage and camped late on a low piece of ground and slept well though I had a headache in the afternoon A pleasant day but it rained some in the night
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Tuesday, April 4, 1865.
Did not march till 8 am and then marched off several miles passing part of the 5th Corps Inf and then turned off to the right marched rapidly till within about 5 miles of the river and found the enemy posted on their flank with artillery. Skirmished smartly with them and there was some Art firing Let Annabal was wounded at dusk in the shoulder Camped at 9 pm a mile from the field. This appears to be a reconnoisance and we found the position of Lees Army
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Wednesday, April 5, 1865.
Slept two hours when we were woke up to saddle and at once marched back on the road we came moving very slow and yet moving all the time At daylight struck the main road and found the 2nd Corps passing. About 10 am found the emeny on the RR and entrenching. Moved on to the flank and formed in line of battle but the enemy did not attack. Laid here till sundown when we moved over to the right and after the usual countermarch camped at 8 pm. A fine day and a pleasant country
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Thursday, April 6, 1865.
Drew rations at daylight this morning and marched off and soon took the gallop for a train which was soon in sight. Were shelled furiously and now took a road to the left and spent the day in galloping around charging the train which proved to be guarded by Lees whole army Custar took 9 cannon & many prisoners and we hear that the Inf captured thousands of men. Cannonading all day and Lees Army is being terribly cut up At dark were shelled at short range withdrew and our Regt went on picket. Pleasant but looks like rain
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Friday, April 7, 1865.
The command moved early and we joined them and passing some of the Inf we took a road to the left and with Sheridan & Merritt marched off swiftly and at near noon reached Prince Edward C.H. where we halted a while, then moved out as usual on the wrong road and after a few miles countermarched and at length went into camp at 9 am and went to bed at 12M Rained a good deal to day but stopped at night. Hear that we are on the flank of Lees Army and have got him cut off.
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Saturday, April 8, 1865.
Saddled early and soon moved out and passing the 5th Corps Inf marched through Prospect Station and marched swiftly down toward Appomattox C.H. Custar was on the right hand road we in the center and the 2nd Div on the left. I went out on a forage expedition and got some corn. At sundown heard Custar firing sharply and soon heard the whistle of 4 trains of cars. I went down & saw them. Our Div was dismounted to fight on foot. returned formed in line of battle & finally returned and [?] for two hours I was on guard
[margins]
Our Brig skirmished all night steady
Learned that Custar captured a great deal Art & wagons
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Sunday, April 9, 1865.
Saddled at 4 am and soon had to move out as skirmishing commenced. After a little Kensys Div relieved us and we went to the right and attacked. Then the whole line fell back and the enemy followed. Our Brig dismounted to check them. On reaching the RR the Inf came up and formed and we formed on their right then advanced while the enemy shelled us. The Inf advanced in their lines and we took the gallop for a charge the enemy were shelling when all at once firing ceased like lightning the news flew along the line that Lee had surrendered. Halted and remained all day here while [?] & Grant were arranging truces the enemy are in plain view Pleasant day
[margins]
The greatest day of my life for which I thank God
The Army is wild
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Monday, April 10, 1865.
Saddled early and soon moved out and in a rain storm followed the train and moved slowly. Marched through on a shorter route than we came on. Camped at dusk at Prospect Station and I went with a detail out two miles after forage and got corn. Rained slowly all day and through the evening. Merritt has got another command and Custar is in command of the Corps Sheridan Hdqrs are here and Grant passed us to day Hear that Lees Army laid down their arms at 9 am to day.
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Tuesday, April 11, 1865.
Broke camp early but marched slowly and over bad roads passing through Prince Edward C.H. Here I went out to a plantation and got some flour & meat as we have nothing to eat. Humphrey & Hibbard also went out and did not get in at night Marched a few miles beyond the C.H. and went into camp at sundown Cloudy and misty to day and the roads are bad. Got a letter from home to night.
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Wednesday, April 12, 1865.
Marched early and over horrible roads to Burks Station and went into camp. Got a paper of April 7th and here we were joined by 9 dismounted men from Petersburg including Cronkhite and it makes a great addition to our small Co. Pleasant to day There is a force of Inf lying here and the cars run to this place Drew rations for two days Sent a letter home this morning
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Thursday, April 13, 1865.
Rained all night and we got up in the morning in a steady rainstorm and saddled up to march At 8 am moved off up the RR and over the most horrible roads I ever saw At length halted at Nottoway C.H. and went into camp to stay a few days they say. Found a very good camping ground and got supper and put up a tent. We came here to get nearer where we can get forage
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Friday, April 14, 1865.
Remained here quietly not drawing either forage or rations and our horses are very hungry Got mail and I got two letters from home Warm and pleasant and light at night
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Saturday, April 15, 1865.
Saddled at 5 am in a hard rainstorm and our squadron is going off with some ambulances after our wounded left about 24 miles from here. Were bothered till 9 am waiting for ambulances and then started off across the country with a negro guide. Rained hard all day and the roads were very bad Ceased raining at sundown and we found on arriving at our destination that the men had been removed. Went into camp here
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Sunday, April 16, 1865.
Passed a very good night of it and saddled at 6 am. A pleasant morning and we left at about 8 am marching by the route we came and found the roads bad Got some "Sorghum" going in Arrived at camp about two pm and found the men in camp as usual and unsaddled for the night. Heard to night that President Lincoln is dead but hope that so great a calamity has not occurred
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Monday, April 17, 1865.
This morning at 7 saddled and marched out moving along the RR towards Petersburg.
Marched rapidly till sundown when we camped and I went after forage. Returned at dark and went on guard. Had the unpleasant duty to perform of tying up two men of Co A and keeping them under arrest all night also a Sergeant of A Co A fine day
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Tuesday, April 18, 1865.
This morning saddled very early but did not move out till about 10 am During the first 10 miles we had to keep 4 men under guard & walking. Passed many Inf camps and ourselves camped early at about two miles from Petersburg and understand that we are to remain here in camp awhile. Warm and pleasant.
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Wednesday, April 19, 1865.
Remained here to day and did my washing in the Appomattox and also did some mending &c. Another fine day and several of the officers are at Petersburg To day we learned for certain that our honored Chief Magistrate has been cruely murdered and all through the Army the feeling of sorrow and indignation is intense. Sorrow is depicted on every countenance and all are unanimous in their wish to give the traitors no mercy no quarters.
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Thursday, April 20, 1865.
All quiet till 7 am when the 3d Div had Boots & Saddles and at 11 am we saddled and moved out and moved about two miles going into camp about a mile from Petersburg and in a grassy pleasant place. Got up a good tent and in order Expect now to remain a while. In the forenoon wrote part of a letter home. Warm but rained a little at 2 pm
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Friday, April 21, 1865.
Remain here quietly to day and finished a long letter home and wrote one to Elisa Spent some time in improving the camp A fine day but rained some in the evening. No news. One man [Austin] from dismounted camp joined us.
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Saturday, April 22, 1865.
Remained quietly here in camp and I received a letter from home and one from Sarah. A pleasant day and I felt well till night when I was taken with the toothache and it ached terribly nearly all night and I slept but very little.
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Sunday, April 23, 1865.
Remained in camp and I suffered all day and most of the night with the toothache. Windy but pleasant. In the evening I wrote a short letter home. Are drawing forage rations &c preparatory to making a march
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Monday, April 24, 1865.
Had Revielle at about 4 am and at about 8 am moved out on the Boydton Plank road and found the roads poor and were bothered some time at a creek Finally camped on the road having marched 25 miles. My tooth ached all day and most of the night. Warm and some dusty.
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Tuesday, April 25, 1865.
Did move early but soon crossed a small river and moved on keeping on the plank except when bridges were gone or the road bad. Camped early at another small river and part of the command was working hard till late bridging the river. Did not unsaddle till late. Hot again to day
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Wednesday, April 26, 1865.
At about noon to day the bridge was done and I believe the other lines have crossed at another bridge. Crossed and brought up the rear and moving slowly in rear of the train After dark found a bad road and were on the road till midnight when we went into camp at 7 miles from Boydton In the forenoon I went to the Surgeon of the 20th and had my tooth drawn Came very hard but better than the toothache Hot and growing dusty
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Thursday, April 27, 1865.
Saddled early and moved out our Regt in advance of the train and the remainder of the Brig in the rear. Moved through Boydton and striking the Roanoke river at Clarksville turned to the right and followed up the river The train moved very slowly and at dark had a terribly bad place to cross. Finally passed them and camped at 11 pm and laid down without supper. A very warm day and becoming dusty Distance from P to B 73 P to C 84 miles
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Friday, April 28, 1865.
Up and had partly got breakfast as sun rose when to horse sounded and quickly saddling we mounted and soon came to a bridge of boats across the Staunton river. Crossed and after a short delay marched on through Scottsburg and crossed a bridge over a branch of the Dan when orders came that Johnson had surrendered and we went into camp with joy in our hearts that the war is now over and we hope to be home soon. Foragers had to be sent out. Very warm again to day
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Saturday, April 29, 1865.
Revielle early and in a short time we recrossed the river and marched to Mosely Ferry on the Staunton river and crossed on pontoons. Then at about noon went into camp while a forage party went out and got corn. The troops and trains are passing as fast as possible. Very warm to day and rained some considerable at night
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Sunday, April 30, 1865.
Saddled early but at 9 am unsaddled again and lay here while the Army was passing till 2 pm when we moved out and moving rapidly in the direction of Black & White Station camped at 12 midnight in an old cornfield Rained in the night and I was on guard Thundered and lightened also Saw a great many paroled rebels Warm in the daytime
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Monday, May 1, 1865.
Got a very early start and our Div being in the advance we moved rapidly and with few halts to Black & White and camped early. I went to the station and got some hay and we also drew other forage Warm to day again Many horses are very sick from change of feed
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Tuesday, May 2, 1865.
Marched at 9 am through the Station and on the direct road to Petersburg. A fine day to march as it was quite cool Marched rapidly our Div being in the centre and camped very early on the RR Got papers at night
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Wednesday, May 3, 1865.
Marched quite early to day we being in rear of the Div and the Div in the advance. Moved rapidly to Petersburg and halted a while then moved slowly through the city moving by sections. Warm but pleasant Crossed the Appomattox in the city and camped just on the north side. Wrote a letter to George in answer to one recd to day from him
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Thursday, May 4, 1865.
Remained here in camp and drew rations and forage. Warm but rained at night Got papers and I also got some from home. No news Wrote a letter to Morris Keith.
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Friday, May 5, 1865.
Spent the day in camp doing nothing except the usual camp duties. The weather is very warm and our little tents but draw the heat Wrote no letters and got no mail There are many of the "Chivalry" in camp peddling
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Saturday, May 6, 1865.
A very warm day indeed and I spent the forenoon in writing on the clothing report and it being so hot in the tent I soon got a violent headache However wrote till supper when I received a letter from mother which nearly cured me "Retired" early
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Sunday, May 7, 1865.
A quiet day and we sat by the road side listening to the sound of the bells in Petersburg Our order to move to-morrow is countermanded. I was on guard and we had guard-mounting Pleasant to day To night Col Thorpe joined us and after cheering him he made a speech of half an hour and then we cheered him and Genrl Gibbs A glad reunion
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Monday, May 8, 1865.
Remained quietly here in camp and after being relieved from guard I went to the river and swam across it twice. C S[?] here yesterday. Shermans 17 Army Corps passed here to day.
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Tuesday, May 9, 1865.
Our horses are being shod up, rations & forage are being issued and things are being prepared for a move to-morrow. The weather is warm, partly cloudy and looks like rain Sent my washing out by a negress who returned it at night. Shermans 15th Corps passed through on their way to Richmond. Had an Inspection by a Staff officer.
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Wednesday, May 10, 1865.
Had Revielle at 4 am and at 8½ left camp and marched to Manchester where we passed the 17 & 15 Corps in camp and crossing the river on pontoons marched slowly through Richmond the Capital of the played out Confederacy. Saw the Capitol building and Belle Isle and after moving through the city marched on 6 miles past some of the scenes of last years raid and camped at dark having made 28 miles. Warm and dry to day
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Thursday, May 11, 1865.
Marched very early this morning and our Div being on advance we moved rapidly passing the scene of our battle of Yellow River and crossing the South Anna at Squirrel Bottom bridge we bore off in the direction of Louisa C.H. and after making a rapid march of 32 miles camped quite early. An extremely warm day and it commenced at sundown and rained all night
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Friday, May 12, 1865.
Moved out quite late this morning and found the roads very muddy Marched in the direction of Louisa C.H. and passed to its right.
At 9 pm crossed a branch of the North Anna and camped in the woods. Went to sleep at 11 pm Tolerable pleasant to day. Crossed the RR and saw a train of cars
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Saturday, May 13, 1865.
Sent and drew forage this morning and did not move out till quite late Moved on the road to Raccoon Ford crossing what I suppose was a branch of the N Anna. In the afternoon forded the Rapidan at Raccoon Ford and camped two miles beyond. I went to Mr Perks's house 3 miles from camp and stayed all night A fine day
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Sunday, May 14, 1865.
The 3d Div being in advance we did not move out early but when we moved marched rapidly to Stephensburg thence by way of Brandy Station to Kellys Ford where we forded and marched rapidly to Catletts Station where we camped after dark having made a good swift march A very warm day and many of us have got very sore mouths The country looks better than I expected
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Monday, May 15, 1865.
Moved out early and marched at a [?] pace to Fairfax C.H. and camped early in a good position Another very warm day. Many of the officers and men went over on the Bull Run field. Passed Manassas and Centreville. Heard this afternoon of the capture of Davis and his confederates in cowardly crime
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Tuesday, May 16, 1865.
Moved out in good season and marched by a very crooked road and passing the 2nd 5th Corps in camp camped early three miles from Washington on the river and to the left of Alexandria. Found a good camp and went to the river and washed. Now we expect to remain here till we are sent home. Very warm again
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Wednesday, May 17, 1865.
Remained here in camp and I wrote a short letter home A very warm day indeed. No news
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Thursday, May 18, 1865.
Very warm again and rained in the evening and most all night Drew clothing and it was issued No news to day
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Friday, May 19, 1865.
Nothing particular occurred to day and we remained quietly in camp. I came on guard and we had a regular guard-mount with only 6 men Rained a good share of the night.
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Saturday, May 20, 1865.
Came off guard at 9 am and in a little while we had to move our position in the Regt taking our place on the left of the 4th squadron During the day the dismounted men came in from Chapel Point. Had orders to move but it was countermanded
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Sunday, May 21, 1865.
At 6 am we were ordered to move and at 9 am moved but our Brig in the advance Marched through Washington in a rainstorm and notwithstanding there were many people out and all seemed well feeling. Moved on the Baltimore Pike through Bladensburgh and camped in a woods. Rained very hard in the night
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Monday, May 22, 1865.
Remained in camp and were preparing for the review Cleared off and the prospects are for a fine day for the great review Cleaned up our saddles and arms and we are anxious to be on the review
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Tuesday, May 23, 1865.
Had Boots & Saddles at daylight and Revielle at 2 am At 7 am moved and halted on the edge of the city then marched through in review
The city was crowded and all seemed to feel well. Every face spoke welcome and our tattered flags were cheered by all. A beautiful day and after passing through the city we countermarched to camp. Sheridan was not present but under Merritt we were the first troops reviewed
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Wednesday, May 24, 1865.
This morning I got a pass and went to town on the 8 am train There was a great crowd in town and I was determined to see the great men and crowd got my way through to directly in front of them and had a most excellent view of Johnson Grant Stanton Meade Sherman and in fact all the leading men There was a great very good feeling crowd and I saw Shermans whole army pass At 4 passed through the Capitol and being too late to catch a train walked to camp till 9 pm
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Thursday, May 25, 1865.
Remained in camp to day and drew rations in the evening Pleasant day and in the afternoon rec'd a short letter from home and commenced an answer
No news
The officers all went over to Br Maj Genrl Gibbs in the evening by invitation Saw Mr Walker of Warsaw in the evening
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Friday, May 26, 1865.
Commenced in the night and rained hard all day being very wet and unpleasant in the woods Nothing going on unusual but we are under orders to move soon About noon Gov Fenton & Genrls Devin and Fitzhugh visited us and we cheered them and had a short speech from the noble Governor Finished my letter home
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Saturday, May 27, 1865.
Rained again nearly all day and was wet and muddy Did not move and we dont know as we shall. Sent my letter home. Am not quite well.
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Sunday, May 28, 1864.
Remained here and it is now talked that we are not going to move The weather is improving. No news and no mail.
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Monday, May 29, 1865.
This morning had Revielle early and at about 8 am moved out and passing through Washington and Alexandria marched up towards Fairfax about 6 miles and camped about a mile from the R.R. Laid out a regular camp with the horses on the flank and put up a tent with care. Weather nice and warm
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Tuesday, May 30, 1865.
This morning early the Regt was all set to work policeing and making a nice camp but I put up a bunk At noon however the General sounded and we packed up and our Brig moved about a mile higher up and camped in the bushes. Afterwards we went back and got our bunk and tent poles and put up a bunk. Another regular camp with horses on the flank. Nice day
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Wednesday, May 31, 1865.
A pleasant day and we are busy putting up bunks &c. During the day I went to the creek and washed my clothing and self No news I went on guard at night and had the 3d relief of 6 men
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Thursday, June 1, 1865.
Slept very little last night and this morning took a short nap. Remained on guard till 6 pm when I was relieved Another pleasant day.
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Friday, June 2, 1865.
To day we got orders for a police preparatory to an Inspection to-morrow. Also grazed our horses two hours. In the evening got a short letter from mother. Considerable police going on. The muster out rolls are now found to be wrong and must be commenced again.
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Saturday, June 3, 1865.
To day we had the review and as it was awful hot we suffered a good deal standing and waiting for the Inspector. Were finally inspected and complimented. No news
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Sunday, June 4, 1865.
Kept quiet to day and slept some Another very hot day and to hot to be comfortable. Went to the creek and had a swim We expect to mustered out soon and the officers are at work at the rolls to day.
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Monday, June 5, 1865.
To day some of the boys are sending off blankets &c and I made some preparations for sending one. Another warm day. Hear that we are to be mustered out Wednesday
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Tuesday, June 6, 1865.
This morning early put some blankets underclothes &c in a sack and taking it on my horse went to Alexandria and sent it off by Adams Express Co. Cooler to day and much more comfortable. Wrote a letter home and enclosed the receipt for the bale of clothing
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Wednesday, June 7, 1865.
A party is at work on a stable to day and we expect now to remain here some time yet. Thanks to some miserable drunken officers we are kept in as long as possible and we know who is to blame Somewhat cooler but grew warm towards night No news
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Thursday, June 8, 1865.
This morning in company with 10 others I rode to Mt Vernon and went all through the grounds visiting the tomb and all the places of interest securing several trophies For 25 cts demanded of all visitors I went through the house and saw everything to be seen It has been a wonderfully hot forenoon and I am writing this sitting and leaning against the famous Magnolia tree planted and nursed by the great Washington and from which I have secured a leaf and blossom as a relic
[margin]
Was deeply impressed with the greatness & goodness of the Father of this Country
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Friday, June 9, 1865.
Remained here in camp and did nothing much except camp duty. A very warm day and we are putting on new style in stable duty &c. At sundown we put a shade over our tent. Our papers are now complete and nothing but the unwillingness of the officers is to delay us.
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Saturday, June 10, 1865.
Everything quiet to day and no prospects of immediate muster-out Weather warm and pleasant Spent part of the day in policeing for Inspection. Had a street Inspection at 12M.
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Sunday, June 11, 1865.
Spent this day very quietly and did nothing except to attend another Inspection at noon At night many of the 6th NY went home they being mustered out and paid to day No news Warm again
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Monday, June 12, 1865.
Another warm pleasant day and I took the day to wash my clothing and got done at sundown. We are in hopes now to be paid in a few days and go home. During the evening there was band playing and after taps the boys got up an excitement yelling and threatening to rob the Sutler but after awhile the tumult ceased when an extra guard of 60 men were put on.
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Tuesday, June 13, 1865.
This morning we had a drill and I drilled a squad Warm with signs of rain. We learn to day that we cannot be discharged this week No news to day
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Wednesday, June 14, 1865.
No drill to day and we remain quiet in camp
Turned over our horses to recruits but kept our horse equipments No news to day but no prospects of a muster-out soon
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Thursday, June 15, 1865.
Kept quiet in camp to day till 4 pm when I went on guard and had the 1st relief of 10 men Had a misty damp night of it as 7th no news of our being mustered-out soon. Pleasant day and warm.
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Friday, June 16, 1865.
Had a tolerable pleasant day on guard and was not relieved till an hour after time. No news to day and no better prospect of our immediate of our immediate muster-out
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Saturday, June 17, 1865.
All quiet to day and no news. Hot and unpleasant, flies are getting thick and one of the boys is very sick and not expected to live. The poor boy has served 10 months and now to die is very hard.
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Sunday, June 18, 1865.
This morning I went to the creek and washed and in the afternoon wrote a letter home We were called into line and informed that we were to be discharged under order 94 and that the whole Regt would be discharged. Consequently new rolls will have to be made out and we are all very much displeased that we are to wait Warm and clear
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Monday, June 19, 1865.
Remained here doing nothing and our men are making out new rolls We turned over our horses equipments and arms except those which we bought Rained some at night
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Tuesday, June 20, 1865.
Rained a good share of the day but we were busy turning horses and equiments arms &c in to the QM and the rolls are nearly completed. The 17th PA are bing paid & discharged. No news
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Wednesday, June 21, 1865.
Nothing unusual occurred to day but the QMs Dept effects are being turned in We are expecting to soon be sent to our State for discharge & pay. Pleasant and warm
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Thursday, June 22, 1865.
Everything as usual to day. Went to the stream and washed my clothes expecting that we shall leave for NY to-morrow At night we were told that Col Thorpe had an idea of going to Wash. and getting the order changed to be paid here and of course we are very much chagrined to find that we must stay longer. But there is no help for us
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Friday, June 23, 1865.
Another very hot day and we are much oppressed with heat At night the officers returned having been unable to accomplish anything and again we came back on the old plan of going to the State, and Rochester is the point designated. The result is another delay of several days all of which might have been avoided
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Saturday, June 24, 1865.
To day the officers are at Washington trying to get transportation to Rochester and at night we heard that they had got it from Washington to Rochester for Monday morning During the evening the camp was fully illuminated by campfires and we had music.Then we went to Hdqrs and some called for a speech from Col Thorpe but in his absence Col Scott made a few remarks when we went to quarters
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Sunday, June 25, 1865.
Remained quietly in camp to day and were mustered out by Maj Smith during the afternoon. Very hot and I went and washed again We are preparing to leave here to-morrow
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Monday, June 26, 1865.
This morning had Revielle at 4 am and were soon ready as we got no breakfast but did not move till 6 am. Got on the cars at the RR and road to Washington where we changed cars and rode to Baltimore where we marched through the city in a heavy shower of rain and took the train for Elmira and at dark moved riding slowly all night and sleeping some A very heavy rain and we all took colds at night
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Tuesday, June 27, 1865.
This morning found we have not yet near reached Harrisburg and we moved very slowly past Williamsport & the other towns on the R.R. and just at night entered the mountains north of Harrisburgh. Great enthusiasm is shown by all the people and we know we are welcome home The people are thoroughly loyal and we are glad indeed to see it. A warm day
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Wednesday, June 28, 1865.
Just at daylight we reached Elmira and found we must be detained some time here Remained near the Depot lying around until 11 am when a train was made up and we commenced the trip through the country to Rochester At Livonia we found a picnic gathered and we were very highly greeted and as the train stopped a few minutes had a pleasant time Arrived and went into camp on the fair grounds at dark & had a bad headache and it rained some Had open cars with black seats
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Thursday, June 29, 1865.
Remained here quietly today not going off the grounds. A very warm day but rained hard at night No news from the Paymaster and no prospects of pay
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Friday, June 30, 1865.
Went out of camp today and got some milk. A great anxiety is felt to know about our pay but there is no news at all. We get very poor food and only two meals per day Many of the boys are going home to day
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Saturday, July 1, 1865.
This morning I made up my mind to start for home and at 9 am washed and soon went to the depot and took the cars to Batavia and thence to Attica where I got left and the boys went on to Warsaw At dark I took the train and on arriving at Warsaw found A Baker and went to his house where I stayed an hour and took supper and then walked home where I arrived at 10 pm Rained & I got wet.
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Sunday, July 2, 1865.
Remained at home all day and saw no one away. A pleasant day though misting some The folks with the exception of George are well
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Monday, July 3, 1865.
At home most of the day and it was warm and pleasant. During the day went to Warsaw and also to Grandfathers Bought me a suit of clothes for 3&½ and got waited on I saw several of the boys
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Tuesday, July 4, 1865.
The glorious 4th of July Went to Warsaw at 10 am and saw most of the boys besides very many other people & got a free dinner and remained to the fireworks in the evening and found they were a fizzle. On the whole spent a pleasant day though the celebration itself amounted to very little Saw many of my friends Warm & pleasant
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Wednesday, July 5, 1865.
Spent the day quietly at home and helped father a very little. R. Webster was busy mowing for us and cut down quite a bit of grass Father is now plowing out potatoes & beans
Warm to day Mrs Baker & Lucy also Mrs Webster were here and Sarah came in the evening.
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Thursday, July 6, 1865.
This morning at 10 am went to Warsaw Depot and took the 11-42 am train to Attica and arrived at Rochester at 5 pm. Found the boys waiting to come back as they cannot be paid till the 17th
The rolls are to be changed and we are to draw pay up to that date. Were disappointed but returned arriving at Warsaw at 1 am of the 7th. Warm to day with prospects of rain
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Friday, July 7, 1865.
To day I commenced to work some at hoeing potatoes &c Arrived home at 3 am and slept till daylight in the barn rather than wake up the folks
Warm to day but sprinkles at times Raked up some hay in the afternoon
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Saturday, July 8, 1865.
Remained at home and drew in some hay also hoed potatoes and mowed some It looks like rain. Father went to Warsaw
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Sunday, July 9, 1865.
Staid quietly at home and read to pass away the time Sarah was here at night. Pleasant to day
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Monday, July 10, 1865.
This morning went to Grandfathers to work and spent the day working in wheat. Came quite hard on me and my hands were sore at night and I was very tired Warm and pleasant day
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Tuesday, July 11, 1865.
Rained in the night and I did not go to Grandfathers till noon when I went down and worked till night. Felt quite tired and sore this forenoon. Warm again and pleasant in the afternoon
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Wednesday, July 12, 1865.
Went to work at Grandfathers early and at noon finished his wheat I cradled yesterday & to day. In the afternoon came home and we drew in (7) seven loads of hay. Pleasant to day with prospects of rain
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Thursday, July 13, 1865.
This morning drew in two loads of hay and then I mowed some in the forenoon Again in the afternoon I mowed and with fathers help finished mowing Sprinkled at times all day In the evening Aunt Clarinda's man came and wanted me to mow for them. Agreed to do so to-morrow
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Friday, July 14, 1865.
This morning early went to Aunt C's to work and spent the day in mowing and in drawing hay &c. Was very tired indeed at night and glad to go home and go to bed early. Was very glad that mother came down and made them a visit to day. Warm and pleasant
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Saturday, July 15, 1865.
Looks some like rain this morning and I went early to work for Aunt C. Drew in the loads of hay and bunched up a good deal besides mowing a good deal little sprinkled by spells all day and at sundown set in for a rain Father & George went to Warsaw
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Sunday, July 16, 1865.
Rained all day and I remained at home thinking and reading. Am going to Rochester to-morrow morning
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Monday, July 17, 1865.
This morning took the 11-44 train for Rochester and making good connections arrived there at 4 pm and signed the pay-rolls then went through the Mt. Hope grounds and finally put up for the night at the American house Warm & pleasant
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Tuesday, July 18, 1865.
This morning went to camp and Col Thorpe made a speech and read a congratulatory letter from Gov Fenton. After much delay we were paid at 6 pm and it being too late to go home put up at the Ayers house. Warm again to day
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Wednesday, July 19, 1865.
Took the 7-20 train from Rochester and arrived at Warsaw about 12M. Rained steadily and after paying my debts in Warsaw walked home finding the folks all well except George who has just had an operation performed. A very rainy day
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Thursday, July 20, 1865.
Went to [?] to work to day and it was a very fair hay day Worked till night Warm & looks some like rain again
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Friday, July 21, 1865.
Worked for Aunt C again and it now looks like better weather Was quite tired at night
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Saturday, July 22, 1865.
Another pleasant day and I worked for Aunt C. Borrowed a book of Clara at night Parks was up here to day
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Sunday, July 23, 1865.
I spent the day quietly at home in reading and in writing a short letter to Aunt Nerisca.Warm and beautiful day and I rested and enjoyed myself finely.
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Monday, July 24, 1865.
Went early to Aunt Clarinda's to work and worked all day Warm enough
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Tuesday, July 25, 1865.
Again I worked for Aunt C and again 'twas a very warm day with some signs of rain
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Wednesday, July 26, 1865.
Worked at Aunt C's again and another warm day I work busily each day and take no time to rest.
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Thursday, July 27, 1865.
Worked again for Aunt C and twas very warm for this climate. Sprinkled some in the afternoon
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Friday, July 28, 1865.
Worked for Aunt C as usual and at night it rained quite hard very unexpectedly to us
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Saturday, July 29, 1865.
This forenoon worked for Aunt C and in the afternoon went over and took fathers place working in barley for Grandfather In the evening went to Warsaw with George Parks
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Sunday, July 30, 1865.
Remained at home all day and wrote a letter in the evening. Thomas was up here also N C as well
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Monday, July 31, 1865.
Went to work for Aunt C this morning and expect to finish their haying soon.
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Tuesday, August 1, 1865.
Worked for Aunt C again to day in haying looks some like rain
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Wednesday, August 2, 1865.
Worked this forenoon and finished haying. In the afternoon came home being quite unwell.
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Thursday, August 3, 1865.
Went around some to-day looking for work but found none Am anxious to find something to do. Pleasant day
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Friday, August 4, 1865.
This morning I commenced and cut down some grass in the pasture and in the afternoon raked it up Pleasant again
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Saturday, August 5, 1865.
Went in the afternoon and raked up oats for R Webster and finished early then went with Tommy to Warsaw
Went up and saw Eliza Settled with Mr Park and received my payment $19.75 Very warm day
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Sunday, August 6, 1865.
Remained at home all day reading and writing a little Pleasant again
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Monday, August 7, 1865.
Went to work for Grandfather this morning and mowed all day on the flat Father went to Warsaw and painted
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Tuesday, August 8, 1865.
Mowed for Grandfather again and finished at 4 pm when it rained some preventing our drawing up. Grandfather paid me $5 and owes me $1 yet
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Wednesday, August 9, 1865.
This morning as per agreement went to work cradling oats for Tommy on ours. Cradled all the forenoon and at noon Tommy came after me to help draw in hay. Went and drew in six loads of hay A pleasant warm day
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Thursday, August 10, 1865.
Rainy to day and I did little till after supper I cradled a few oats. Went down to Aunt Cs and spent part of the day.
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Friday, August 11, 1865.
Cradled a few more oats this morning though it rained some and in the afternoon helped Tommy rake a little Went to Dewitt Achins house to see him about tax. Cloudy and sprinkling most all day.
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Saturday, August 12, 1865.
Went and saw Webster this morning and made an agreement for some boards & posts. Mother had visitors and to day uncle Luther got home from the Army Went to Warsaw and got father at evening
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Sunday, August 13, 1865.
Remained at home to day and spent the time reading and studying and commenced to practice on the violin Pleasant and warm
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Monday, August 14, 1865.
Raked a few oats in the morning and also cradled some Did not do any in the afternoon Went down for father at night Quite warm and pleasant
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Tuesday, August 15, 1865.
This morning got Conable's horse and wagon and moved some rails and laid them into fence to keep the cattle out of the orchard. Towards night Tommy came with his team & while he finished binding oats George & I drew in ours there being 26 bunches of 14 bundles each Then went to Warsaw after father & also got my hair cut Warm & pleasant
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Wednesday, August 16, 1865.
Remained at home most of the day Mr Wilcox buried a little girl. Saw Mr Armstrong and agreed to work for him. Warm & pleasant.
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Thursday, August 17, 1865.
This morning at 7 commenced to work for the RR Co. and worked hard being quite tired at night. A warm day. The ground is getting quite dry and pastures are drying up badly.
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Friday, August 18, 1865.
Worked again on the culvert and got tired again Warmer than yesterday even and we have a warm place to work in Get $1.50 per day and I have an idea of working some time
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Saturday, August 19, 1865.
Again I worked for the co and it was not quite so warm as it was more cloudy Quit at 5 pm and in the evening went down to Clara's a little while. Father has taken another job of painting of Mr Jefferson
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Sunday, August 20, 1865.
A pleasant warm day and I remained at home all day read &c
Yesterday P. Truesdell lost a child also Solomon Morris with Diptheria. The disease is making great ravages in the neighborhood.
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Monday, August 21, 1865.
Worked this forenoon and part of the afternoon on the R.R. but it rained and I was broken off and we had quite a fine heavy rain lasting several hours. Went down after father at night
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Tuesday, August 22, 1865.
Worked on the R.R. to day and it was a fine day to work. Got quite tired S. Atwell came to work to day
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Wednesday, August 23, 1865.
Again I worked on the R.R. doing a hard days work and being quite tired. Warm and pleasant.
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Thursday, August 24, 1865.
Worked on the RR again and at night went down after father Mother went over to Alvahs to day Pleasant day
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Friday, August 25, 1865.
Again worked for the RR Co and it was warm and pleasant again
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Saturday, August 26, 1865.
Worked on the RR again to day and received notice that I may have to go to Attica Monday Went to Warsaw in the evening after father and bo't a pair of shoes $2.97 & overalls $1 Also a box colars .25 cts. A pleasant day and warm
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Sunday, August 27, 1865.
Remained at home to day and spent it in reading & writing. Warm & pleasant.
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Monday, August 28, 1865.
Went to work early on the culverts and it was a very warm day Was tired at night. Expected to go to Attica to day but three other men were sent and I remained.
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Tuesday, August 29, 1865.
Again I worked on the RR and it was a very warm day. Are getting ready to move to Attica Are going to-morrow
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Wednesday, August 30, 1865.
This morning we commenced to move and got all ready and ourselves went on the mail at 5½ pm Very warm & Atwell was sick at night and did not go with us. Received board at the Exchange House
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Thursday, August 31, 1865.
Worked again to day on the RR and was quite tired at night. Continue to board at the Exchange hotel Warm & pleasant Atwell did not come
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Friday, Sept. 1, 1865.
Worked again to day and it was warm again. Did a good days work. No news
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Saturday, Sept. 2, 1865.
Worked again to-day making another good days work. Quit at night at 5 pm and went home on the Evening Express. Paid my board bill of $2 Run a hand car home from Warsaw Depot Another warm day
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Sunday, Sept. 3, 1865.
Remained at home all day & spent the day in reading & writing. Very warm and a little sprinkling of rain. Eliza came up and spent the evening.
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Monday, Sept. 4, 1865.
This morning was up at 5 and at 5½ went up with Atwell and taking the hand car rode to Attica where I did not go up to dinner. Was quite unwell in the forenoon but felt better afternoon. Very warm and also clear. Got orders in the evening to go to Gainesville in the morning
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Tuesday, Sept. 5, 1865.
Worked again on the culvert or rather went to Gainesville in the morning early and did not get back till afternoon. Rained a little shower in Attica in the morning but it did not extend.
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Wednesday, Sept. 6, 1865.
To-day I worked on the culvert as usual Rained during the night but was a pleasant day.
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Thursday, Sept. 7, 1865.
Worked as usual and it was a warm pleasant day. My feet have been quite sore but are a trifle better to-day. No news.
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Friday, Sept. 8, 1865.
Worked this forenoon but it rained in the afternoon and we did not work. Some of the men went home.
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Saturday, Sept. 9, 1865.
To-day was fair and we worked all day and went home at night Walked home from the Depot and found the folks well.
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Sunday, Sept. 10, 1865.
Last night it rained hard and to-day it was showery At 10½ am George took me to the Depot and I went to Attica and passed a miserable day and glad to have it end
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Monday, Sept. 11, 1865.
Rained to-day some by showers but we worked all day. Quite warm.
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Tuesday, Sept. 12, 1865.
Worked again to-day and it was quite a good day to work. Felt very ill all the afternoon but worked
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Wednesday, Sept. 13, 1865.
Pleasant to-day and I worked all day though I was quite sick all the forenoon Very hot in the afternoon Armstrong went to Buffalo in the afternoon Bot me a pair of slippers in the evening for $1.50
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Thursday, Sept. 14, 1865.
Very warm again to-day and worked all day feeling much better than yesterday
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Friday, Sept. 15, 1865.
Worked again to-day and it was again very warm Was tired at night
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Saturday, Sept. 16, 1865.
To-day it was quite warm again and I worked as usual and went home on the Evening Express walked from the Depot I found the folks well
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Sunday, Sept. 17, 1865.
Remained at home till 10½ am when George took me to the Depot and I went to Attica on the 11-44 train. Rained in the afternoon
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Monday, Sept. 18, 1865.
Rainy this morning and continued to rain all day At 3 pm got on the stock train and went to Warsaw where I got a ride with E Champlaine part way home
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Tuesday, Sept. 19, 1865.
Remained at home till 10½ am when I walked to Warsaw Depot and took the train to Attica Had to pay my fare and after arriving I went down to work and worked till night. A fine day and the first day of the Wy— Co Fair
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Wednesday, Sept. 20, 1865.
This morning again commenced and worked all day it being a fine pleasant day. This is the last day of the Fair at Warsaw and a fine day for it. Spent the evening in reading &c.
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Thursday, Sept. 21, 1865.
Again I worked and we had another fine day Nothing of importance occurred to day. Spent the evening as usual in reading &c.
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Friday, Sept. 22, 1865.
Worked again all day and it was quite warm Spent the evening in reading &c.
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Saturday, Sept. 23, 1865.
Worked again to-day and at 10 am were paid I recd $19.44. Quit at 5 pm and run the hand car to Warsaw from where I walked home Pleasant and warm to-day Paid $2.80 for board & also $6.00 to father borrowed money.
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Sunday, Sept. 24, 1865.
Remained at home all day and spent the time in reading and thinking Rained quite a good deal in the afternoon. S. Atwell called on me. S. Gibson has got home.
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Monday, Sept. 25, 1865.
Rained this morning and I did not go to the Depot early but carried father down and saw Draper & Armstrong Also called and saw Sarah Gibson.
At 9½ am went to Warsaw and took the noon train for Attica. Worked in the afternoon Cleared up in the morning and was pleasant
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Tuesday, Sept. 26, 1865.
Worked all day and was tired at night. Quite cool and a fine day to work
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Wednesday, Sept. 27, 1865.
Up early this morning again and worked all day again. Twas quite a cold night with a frost. Was warm to-day.
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Thursday, Sept. 28, 1865.
Had breakfast at 6 am and went to work early. Was quite warm in the middle of the day. Saw James E Bishop in the evening. Spent the evening as usual in reading and studying
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Friday, Sept. 29, 1865.
Warm & pleasant and we worked all day. Are getting along finely with our work and expect to finish next week. Am glad that the week is most gone again Spent the evening in studying and reading.
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Saturday, Sept. 30, 1865.
Was quite showery all day but we kept working till 5 pm. Was quite cool. Got supper at the usual time and went home on the Express getting home at 9 pm. This finishes the month
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Sunday, October 1, 1865.
Spent the afternoon down at Sarah Gibson. Also took S. Morris to Warsaw in the morning Was showery nearly all day
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Monday, October 2, 1865.
Went to the Depot at 11-44 and took the train for Attica and worked during the afternoon.
Was pleasant but I was taken with a severe pain in my left side and I ate little supper but went to bed and and during the forepart of the night had a violent chill and then a high fever. Was very sick
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Tuesday, October 3, 1865.
Got up this morning sick & tired but went to work and worked all day being very miserable. Was pleasant but I was very unwell. Eat a light supper and went to bed early
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Wednesday, October 4, 1865.
Again had a miserable night and a miserable day to-day. Besides it rained quite a good deal and at 3 pm we finally quit being very wet and I think I took cold thereby adding to my sickness I ate no supper except to drink some tea and went to bed at 7½
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Thursday, October 5, 1865.
Undertook to work again to-day but found it intolerable and at noon quit work and got a pass from Armstrong and came home on the stock. Did not stop at Warsaw but went on and jumped off on the Gainesville grade and walked home Was very sick Cool but not rainy
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Friday, October 6, 1865.
Remained quietly at home and was quite sick but would not have a Doctor. During the night had another chill and fever.
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Saturday, October 7, 1865.
Was again very unwell all day and was glad to remain quietly at home. The weather is stormy and unpleasant. Begin to fear that I may have a fit of sickness.
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Sunday, October 8, 1865.
Again remained quietly at home and was very unwell. In fact am hardly able to sit up but a few minutes at a time. It storms every little while
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Monday, October 9, 1865.
Was about the same this morning but worse in the afternoon and took a bath at dark went to bed very sick but slept quite well
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Tuesday, October 10, 1865.
To day I walked down to Grandfathers and was quite tired and unwell yet and in fact am no better. Am quite miserable. Pleasant and warm
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Wednesday, October 11, 1865.
This morning I went with mother to Grandfathers and then she drove the horse part way home and I went to the village and finally found Dr Baker and got some medicine Had to walk part way home. Am no better
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Thursday, October 12, 1865.
Took Bakers medicine to-day without any apparent effect Am yet quite unwell and no change. To-day Smith Biffins and wife also grandfather and mother were here on a visit
Friday, October 13, 1865.
Remained at home to-day and continue to be about the same George is at work for Martin and father for Jenks. To-day the planing mill of Hurd & Gales was burned to the ground
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Saturday, October 14, 1865.
Am no better to-day and consequently in the afternoon went down to see the Dr Could not find Dr Baker got medicine of Bartlett
Remained till dark to see Armstrong and got my pay for last month amounting to $38.70. Walked home. Cool and cloudy.
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Sunday, October 15, 1865.
Staid quietly at home and took my medicine Is cold and unpleasant out doors.
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Monday, October 16, 1865.
Stayed at home till noon then went to Warsaw and got some more medicine of Bartlett and did not get home till dark. Quite cool and windy.
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Tuesday, October 17, 1865.
Remained at home to-day and am taking Barletts medicine which I think helps me Cool & windy
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Wednesday, October 18, 1865.
Father is at work at Jenks to-day and I am not doing anything except to husk a very little corn Lowery and unpleasant
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Thursday, October 19, 1865.
To-day Father is at home and it is very stormy. The wind blows hard and a cold rain is falling I am feeling considerable better and am going to get more of Bartletts medicine.
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Friday, October 20, 1865.
Went to Warsaw to-day and got some more medicine. Was rainy and unpleasant and I did not get home till after dark Sold butter to the amount of $8.74 at 38 cts pr. pound. Paid Bartlett .50 cts for medicine also bo't writing material for 25 cts
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Saturday, October 21, 1865.
This morning went up to see Henry Norton and engaged their school for Eliza
Sarah came up in the evening and I took her to the village. Pared quite a good many apples to-day
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Sunday, October 22, 1865.
Spent the day quietly at home in reading & studying. Jenison was up to see me and Armstrong wants me to help but I am not able yet. Am feeling some better this afternoon. Quite pleasant
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Monday, October 23, 1865.
Went to Warsaw this morning and saw Turner made arrangements for some trees. The National Guards are having a drill here to-day & George is attending Father is at work for Jenks. Pleasant but cool.
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Tuesday, October 24, 1865.
Remained at home all day and helped gather apples what I was able. Am gaining very slowly George is gather training yet. Father is at home. Quite pleasant
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Wednesday, October 25, 1865.
Spent the day quietly at home George is at Martins and Father at Warsaw Studied some and worked some Quite pleasant again. We have had hard frosts lately.
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Thursday, October 26, 1865.
Went to Warsaw at noon going around by way of Nortons as I received a letter from Sarah. Finished arrangements for her to keep the school. Bought me an ax for $2.00
Father finished at Jenks to-day. Cold & storming a little
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Friday, October 27, 1865.
Rained hard all day. Father is at work for Aunt C Remained at home and pared apples some
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Saturday, October 28, 1865.
Went over to Bingham's woods this morning and found a man at work there. Rained and I came back and went to Warsaw. Saw B. He says I may if I wish cut 40 or 50 cords for him. Rained hard all day. Father worked part of the day at Aunt C's Sent out a letter to Eliza.
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Sunday, October 29, 1865.
Spent the day quietly at home in reading and studying Stormed at times and the snow fell so as to whiten the ground last night
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Monday, October 30, 1865.
Went over to Bingham's woods this morning and he came there Looked over the wood and chopped till about 4 pm then came home A very good working day.
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Tuesday, October 31, 1865.
Chopped to-day for Bingham and it was stormy by spells Did not fill up but one cord
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Wednesday, Nov. 1, 1865.
Was rainy this morning and I stayed at home and studied the forenoon. In the afternoon Wilber & I went and chopped Did not pile up any wood.
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Thursday, November 2, 1865.
To-day chopped in the afternoon Was quite cool and unpleasant
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Friday, November 3, 1865.
Worked all day at chopping and worked quite late. Was more pleasant to-day Am intending to go to Mt Morris to-morrow.
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Saturday, November 4, 1865.
Remained at home till about 10 am when I went on the RR to Gainesville where I took the cars for Nunda. After staying at the station a while I went to the village and then to Kendalls. Found them all well and spent the evening pleasantly Was quite windy & cold.
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Sunday, November 5, 1865.
Remained at Kendalls to-day and had quite a pleasant time Was cold blustering and snowing some
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Monday, November 6, 1865.
This morning was cold and snowy and windy. Went up to Grove arriving there at about 3 pm. Ate supper and spent the night with Frank Town.
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Tuesday, November 7, 1865.
This morning called on some of the people and went down by way of Bently's They were not at home. Went to the station and took the mail train home where I arrived at about 7 pm Quite cold and windy Election day and everybody gone.
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Wednesday, November 8, 1865.
To-day went over and chopped Twas quite cold and some snow on the ground. Went to Warsaw in the evening and got $4.87 of Armstrong.
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Thursday, November 9, 1865.
Chopped again to-day. Twas cool rain and unpeasant
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Friday, November 10, 1865.
Chopped again and the weather was finer Piled up a lot of wood. Was very tired and lame at night
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Saturday, November 11, 1865.
Did not get to my chopping till quite late this morning but did a full days work Father got me a new axe yesterday and like
It appears like having some fine weather now
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Sunday, November 12, 1865.
Spent the day at home pleasantly visiting with Eliza. Was clear and pleasant. Studied some in my grammar
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Monday, November 13, 1865.
This morning went to trimming apple trees and spent the forenoon at trimming four of them. In the afternoon went and chopped for Bingham. Was pleasant but windy.
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Tuesday, November 14, 1865.
Pleasant and warm to-day. Felt quite unwell this morning and went to Warsaw with father Bo't a lamp at .50 Also saw Bingham Came home and chopped for him in the afternoon
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Wednesday, Nov. 15, 1865.
Went over chopping this morning but Wilber came for me at noon as our trees had come. Paid for them $8.75. Went to setting them out with father and got them about half set out at dark. Aunt Eliza and Jennie are here A fine day and we are having our Indian Summer.
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Thursday, November 16, 1865.
Another beautiful day and we finished setting out trees in the forenoon. Have got 50 apple trees & 5 dwarf pears trees Chopped for Bingham in the afternoon putting up a cord
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Friday, November 17, 1865.
This morning father went down to Aunt C's and got a bed-stead. When he came back we drew the rails around the little orchard and laid up the fence Afterwards father drew up some wood and I ditched till evening then went to Warsaw and subscribed for the N.Y. Times Eliza came home with me. Pleasant and not cold
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Saturday, November 18, 1865.
This morning got to the woods in good season and did a good days work. At night had up 20 cords of wood for Bingham Some what cooler to-day. Uncle Luther was here in the the evening and Eliza went home with him
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Sunday, November 19, 1865.
Not quite so pleasant to-day. Remained quietly at home and spent the day reading & studying. Enjoyed it quite well.
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Monday, November 20, 1865.
Went over to my work at Binghams and put up 2½ cords was a cloudy day and I built a fire at noon
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Tuesday, November 21, 1865.
Worked this forenoon and quit at noon as it rained Was unpleasant all day. During the afternoon I threshed out some oats for the straw and made preparations to kill hogs to-morrow.
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Wednesday, Nov. 22, 1865.
Stormy and unpleasant and the snow all over the ground. Killed hogs and did not get done till most night Went at night and took down a flail &c. to Grandfathers
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Thursday, November 23, 1865.
This morning got a good start and put up 2½ cords by night. It was quite stormy snowing all day. Was very tired at night.
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Friday, November 24, 1865.
Went to work this morning and put up two cords It was quite a pleasant day for the season
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Saturday, November 25, 1865.
Piled up two cords to day by hard labor and was very tired at night. Was quite a good day. Have piled up 10 cords of wood this week.
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Sunday, November 26, 1865.
Spent the day quietly at home and in reading and studying. A tolerably pleasant day At evening a cousin of father's came here with her husband. Mr and Mrs Holly. Also Eliza came up here
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Monday, November 27, 1865.
This morning I commenced to trim trees and trimmed till noon. Our visitors went away this morning. Pleasant in the morning but stormy and about 3 pm went over to Uncle Alvah's and remained till evening Was very stormy and unpleasant in the afternoon. Got home about 8 pm
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Tuesday, November 28, 1865.
Went to work this morning and though I had a bad pain in my side put up two cords. Came home early intending to go to Warsaw but George had gone so I did not go. Quite a good day
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Wednesday, Nov. 29, 1865.
Felt quite unwell this morning and did not go chopping Did choring fixed up the cellar door &c. and in the afternoon trimmed trees and before dark went to the village and saw Dr Baker Got some plasters for my diseased lung. Tolerably pleasant but cool and windy
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Thursday, November 30, 1865.
Am quite sore from the application of the plaster Did not chop but chored it all day, laying fence trimming treetops &c. At night went down to Aunt Cs and spent the evening A windy and cool day
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Friday, December 1, 1865.
Storming most all day and I remained in-doors till near night when I went after Eliza Was storming furiously, snowing & blowing
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Saturday, December 2, 1865.
Quite snowy this morning. Went over to Bingham's and worked slowly putting up 1½ cords. Came home early and spent the evening in study Cool but pleasant
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Sunday, December 3, 1865.
Remained quietly at home and studied and read. Enjoyed myself very well. Warm and thawing and rained in the evening. Read some in Combes' Phrenology and Digestion
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Monday, December 4, 1865.
Rained very hard all last night and continues to rain to-day with no ceasing Chored it around fixing up fence &c.
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Tuesday, December 5, 1865.
This morning got an early start and went over to B Conable's woods and chopped. I put up 1¾ cords and father 1½ cords. A fine day but a cool wind blowing
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Wednesday, Dec. 6, 1865.
Went over to Conable's woods to day and chopped wood Put up about ½ cords. Another pretty good day.
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Thursday, December 7, 1865.
This morning it was snowing and as it was Thanksgiving day I went up and got Eliza and we went down to Grandfather's and had an excellent dinner & a pleasant time Continued cloudy but snowed some in the evening several young folks came in and we had quite a pleasant evening
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Friday, December 8, 1865.
This morning I went into Fitzgerald's woods and chopped till noon. In the afternoon went with Curtis S & C Gibson & S. Morris also G Gibson up to Elisa's school. Returned at night and went to the "Sing" at Mrs Lane's and then spent an hour at aunt Clarinda's Quite cool and some windy.
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Saturday, December 9, 1865.
This morning got a late start and went to Conable's woods and chopped till night though it stormed quite hard in the afternoon Put up ½ cords
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Sunday, December 10, 1865.
Remained very quietly at home and spent the day in reading and writing to Morris Keith Pleasant and warm to-day. Elisa came up here at night
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Monday, December 11, 1865.
As mother & Elisa were washing got an early start and went over to Bingham's and chopped Was rather warm and pleasant. Put up 1¼ cords Had bad timber Father sold some dried apples also got the clocks
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Tuesday, December 12, 1865.
This morning I went to Warsaw and sold dried apples Got $2 per bush and they amounted to $10.60 Came home and in the afternoon chopped for Bingham A pleasant day with a cool wind
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Wednesday, Dec. 13, 1865.
Cool and windy this morning Took the hog down to W. Stearnes and left her. Came home and chopped all day and drew wood from Truesdell's.
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Thursday, December 14, 1865.
Chopped to-day putting up 1 cord. Was stormy at night. Cut some basswood to-day.
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Friday, December 15, 1865.
Went to chopping this morning. Stormed very hard and grew cold. Was quite cold. Put up 1¼ cords and cut about ½ cord more. Blustering enough
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Saturday, December 16, 1865.
Went to work early but did not work only till noon Did not pile up any wood. In the afternoon went to Warsaw with Eliza and saw Bingham and also got some mittens for $1.25 Also some other things at $0.50. Also paid Baker $0.50 was quite cold and I got home about 8 pm cold and tired.
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Sunday, December 17, 1865.
Remained at home quietly and did not study or read much to-day. Helped put up the stoves. In the evening went down to Grandfathers and came home with Eliza. Warmer to-day and still.
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Monday, December 18, 1865.
Took Eliza up to her school this morning and came back, then went into the woods of Bingham & chopped till 4½ pm when I came home and went to Warsaw with Eliza Bought some few things for Santa-Claus and got back about 9 pm
Was a fine day for work warm enough and still
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Tuesday, December 19, 1865.
Was rainy slowly this morning and I did not go into the woods till about 10 am when father Wilber & I went into Fitsgeralds woods and worked till night. Was quite misty and warm all day and muddy at night with a high wind.
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Wednesday, Dec. 20, 1865.
Went into Bingham's woods early this morning and chopped two cords.
Was a warm day but cloudy. Froze last night Father and George are chopping for Truesdell
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Thursday, December 21, 1865.
Again went into Binghams woods though it was a very windy blustering cold day and by hard work put up two cords. But few people work to-day but it did not hurt me.
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Friday, December 22, 1865.
Very cold and stormy to-day again but I went to the woods and chopped putting up two cords again A very hard day to work as the snow is drifted some and is flying terribly.
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Saturday, December 23, 1865.
Did not get at work so early this morning, and only put up 1½ cords A much pleasanter day though cool with some wind However the weather has moderated somewhat. At night attended the Christmas tree and enjoyed myself quite well Got home at about 8½ pm. Cold and clear to night
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Sunday, December 24, 1865.
Spent the day quietly at home reading & writing Some windy but the weather is moderating. At night went down and came up with E & S who stay here all night
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Monday, December 25, 1865.
Warmer this morning and thawed all day The ground is bare in the road to night Spent the day quietly with E & S here and at night took Sarah to Warsaw and stopped at Grandfathers a little while coming home A pleasant Christmas compared with last year
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Tuesday, December 26, 1865.
This morning got an early start but went to look at some logs, consequently did not chop very much in the forenoon Put up 1½ cords and quit at dark Warm and thawing to-day
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Wednesday, December 27, 1865.
Rained almost all night and is raining yet this morning did not chop this forenoon but greased the wagons & picked over the apples. At noon went over to Bingham's and chopped a cord by dark snowed & rained by spells in the afternoon
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Thursday, December 28, 1865.
Went to my work early this morning and worked hard till night and put up 2½ cords Was some stormy and wet but warm Father and Wilbur are chopping for Truesdell
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Friday, December 29, 1865.
Had a new axehelve to put in my axe and did not get an early start Chopped till near dark but did not pile up any. Was not so warm as yesterday. Father chopped for Truesdell
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Saturday, December 30, 1865.
Went to the woods in good season this morning and cut about 1½ cords. Came home midlyn early and found Lucy & Ellen Baker there In the evening went down to Raymond's and spent the evening pleasantly with quite a company. A fine day not cold and a beautiful night.
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Sunday, December 31, 1865.
Lucy & Ellen spent the night here and remained here till nearly noon. Spent the day entirely at home and in reading and studying. Also wrote a letter to Morris Keith. A beautiful day but with a rough wind. Marcus came at night to invite us to come down there to-morrow The last day of a very eventful year May the New year be a happy one
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Memoranda.
The grounds of Mt Vernon are in much more extensive and beautiful than I expected. Also the house which is at least a good farmers house. The tombstone itself is in poor repair and but little attention is paid to keeping the walks clean and the ground grassed over However perhaps it is the best way as it is left as much as possible as its former great owner left it. Apparently the grounds have not been changed since the death of Washington Was much pleased with my visit. Left my name in the book
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Longman & brothers
London
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July 4th Dr to 2.25
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Cash Account. September.
9th To Raymond 26.42
" To G. Stearns 10.25
" To Crist 7.83
2 For board 2.60
10 " " 3.20
16 " " 3.80
20 RR fare .50
23 for board 2.80
" Pay for Aug 19.44
" Borrowed money 6.00
24 To Mrs Lane .50
" To children .20
25 For candles .10
for B. 2.00
for D 10.00
5.00
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Cash Account. November.
Marketing
14 = $11.15
" for lamp .50
" " .10
26 for Mittens .75
26 for paper 1.90
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Cash Account. December.
16 for mittens 1.25
" " sundries 1.00
19 To lent Eliza 2.50
" To sundries 1.50
DATABASE CONTENT
| (15320) | DL1396.003 | Diaries | 1865 |
Tags: Animals, Artillery, Assassination of Abraham Lincoln, Camp/Lodging, Christmas, Clothing, Death (Military), Destruction of Land/Property, Drilling, Fatigue/Tiredness, Fighting, Food, Foraging/Theft, Guard/Sentry Duty, Guns, Hygiene, Injuries, Leadership (Soldiers' Perceptions of), Mail, Marching, Nature, Philip Sheridan, Picket Duty, Prisoners of War, Railroads, Rivers, Robert E. Lee, Sadness, Supplies, Weather, Work
People - Records: 1
- (5343) [writer] ~ Gibson, Sullivan W.
SOURCES
Sullivan W. Gibson Diary, 1865, DL1396.003, Nau Collection
