J. Huggins

 

P. R. Huggins

U.S. Marine Corps

            1864 & 5

 

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If any thing should happen to me I request that some of my messmates should send this book and the contents of a small bag inside my black bag together with my watch ring and clothes to the following address

                                                                        Ploudon Huggins

                                                                                    Waterville

                                                                                                Oneida Co

and oblige Ploudon R Huggins                                                           N.Y.

 

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Journal for 1864 from Aug 31^st

Aug 31^st          Left home for New York had a pleasant trip through with the exception of not being able to obtain a sleeping place on board the boat down the river. Her name was the St John a large side wheel steamer with accomodations for 15,000 pasengers but there were so many aboard that night that the cabin floors were covered with sleepers and then not room for all. Arrived at New York about 9 A.M. [margin] was accompanied by A Lansbord and J. Holmes       Friday

Sept 1^st            Enlisted to day in the U.S. Marine Corps for 4 years and was sent to the Marine Barracks on Flushing Avenue Brooklyn. There is a verry large and pleasantly situated brick building kept clean and neat well lighted by fine windows and by gas at night Received $1800 dollars Bounty $500 of which was paid down by Mr M^cKowan of Waterville for which I paid him $50 for the use of the money. This money was deposited with the Col commanding station untill I go to sea this is to prevent any Bounty jumpers from getting their money and then diserting [margin] and $300 U. S. Bounty $1,000 Town bounty $500 County

Sept 3^rd            Have become somewhat used to Barrack life like it verry well as yet perhaps because it is a novelty for me. The order of exercises for the day is at 5 A.M. Revellie at 5½ A.M. roll call at 6 A.M. fall out for drill at 7 A.M. have breakfast at 9 A.M. drill until 11 A.M. dinner at 1 P.M. then drill from 3 P.M. till 5 P.M. then supper at 6 P.M. roll call and again at 9 P.M. lights out at 9¼ P.M. this is the order untill you are suficiently well drilled to go on guard then you there will be guard mount at 8 A.M. and stand guard 2 hours on and 4 off for 24 hours and on again the day after

From this date untill the 13^th nothing of any note has transpired. [margin] Mem sent Howell $2.00

Sept 13^th          Have been advanced into the first squad in drill and stand a good chance of going on guard soon a thing I do not much care to do. have received a letter to night from Miss L. C— have received two from home since she I came here and one from Miss P. C— one from N.S.C— and one from Mr M^cK [margin] all answered

 

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Sept 14            Nothing of importance has transpired to day with the single exception of all hands being called out to witness the ironing of some prisoners in accordance with their sentances most of them were confined for neglect of duty and drunkenness and were to receive 14 days solitary confinement on bread and water and at the expiration of that time to have a chain riveted on the right ancle and labour about the Barracks under guard for from 3 to six months and loose all pay due them at the time of their trial and for the term of their imprisonment and all allowances for clothing except a sufficient quantity to keep them comfortable this seems rather severe but I think it not more so than is necessary for the preservation of due order and discipline [margin] rather a dear spree I think

Sept 15            Have this day received a visit from my Parents and a present of a chest to carry to sea well fitted with good things to eat and wear also of a good silver hunting cased American

 

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watch and a gold ring. also received a verry kind letter from Rev. W^m C— otherwise nothing of importance has occured out of the regular routine of daily duty.

Sept 16^th          Received another visit from Father & Mother and the present of a pocket album a portfollio a knife and the pictures of Father Mother David Jennie and Aggie and another inkstand a present of from Mrs J. Smith. Was turned over as a ready man to day but hope that I shall not be put on guard right away [margin] Sent Sergeant Randolph $5.00

Sept 17            Was put on guard this morning the duties which I had to perform were to take charge of 3 prisoners and see that they did not escape it was not a verry hard task as they were all ironed and in distinct view in the day time being at work on the parade ground during the night I had to guard 24 prisoners in cells

 

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Sept 18            Got a pass from 10 A.M. untill 9 P.M. went over to the city with my Parents up to Greenwood Cemetary and through New York that is a portion of it had dinner at Frenches Hotell passed a verry pleasant day and eve untill 7 P.M. when I started for the Barracks and arrived there at 7.30 P.M.

Sept 19            Went on guard again to day had the same duties as before Father & Mother were here in the morning took my citizens clothes away with them intending to start for home this eve Have this day made my will which was witnessed by Russell and was also made arrangements with Col Reynolds to have my bounty paid over to Father to be invested by him for my benefit [margin] Rec^d $3.00 of Ser R

Sept 20            Am well and feeling as could be expected of one who has been up the most of three nights feel rather lonesome as I expect I have seen my Parents for the last time for some time hope it will not be to long somewhat expect my Sister down to see me have drawn my uniform coat and hat and am ready for duty Went out on liberty came in about 10.30 P.M. Saw the show at

 

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Barnums had a good time went with a young man by the name of Hopkins think there is considerable humbuggery at Barnums more than I expected to find

Sept 21^st          Had to go on guard again at the Navy Yard did not have a verry hard time only stood guard 4 hours of the 24 and most of that was in doors there was quite a jam of men women & children to get passes to go and see their friends on board the receiving ships North Carolina or Vermont a great many had not got a sufficient reasons for going and we supposed they would hang around all day and try to cry some I pitied as I thought they were sincere in their wishes while others I thought only wanted to make any excuse to get down to the docks and they would then play sharp on those who came down to receive bounty think there did not many of this class get by the guard had another case of a corporal getting drunk while on duty he is now in the cells his name is Burke

 

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Sept 22            Received a letter from N.S.C. and one from Father with an order for me to sign so that he can draw my county bounty which I shall sign and send to him to night

23^rd                  From this date untill the 28 nothing out of the usual routine of duty has occurred.

Sept 28            Received a visit from Jennie she was quite tired but came directly here from the boat she came down with Mr & Mrs Bissell and Mrs Westcott. Got a pass from the Col from 10 P.M. till 3 P.M. and went over to N.York and got my pictures taken and got another pass at night and went to Barnums to show Jennie the sights

29^th                  On guard again to day did not see J

30^th                  Jennie was over this morning expect to go over and see her again tonight went to see Jennie had a good time at her Hotell

Oct 1^st             On guard again J was over to see me in the morning. did not stay long was going up to Greenwood.

Oct 2^nd            As usual except that we were called out to hear the Regulations read and after that I got a pass from noon till Tattoo

 

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Went over to see Jennie spent the day with her she expects to start for home tomorrow.

Oct 3^rd             Went on guard this morning but was relieved at 10.45 A.M. and was ordered to get ready for sea am going on the Mohican do not go on board till tomorrow or next day but we are required to hold ourselves in readiness to go at any time

Oct 8               Have been lying in the Barracks untill yesterday came on board the Mohican at 10 A.M. Oct 7 was appointed one of the orderlies nothing else of importance has occured

Oct 14^th           Nothing of importance has occured since the 8^th lying at anchor in the navy yard all the time but hope to get away tomorrow

Recd a letter from L. C— and ans. it [margin] Sent J Russell 5.00

Oct 22             Still the same old story nothing new still lying at the same old anchorage dont know when we will go

 

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Oct 26 Nothing new up to this date But at 11½ A.M. today we left our moorings and headed for sea and came up with the monitor Mondanock who was lying at anchor opposite Fort Lafayette took a line from her and at 3 P.M. started again passed Sandy Hook at [blank] and Barnegat Light at 11 P.M. With quite a sea and wind in the S.W. could not make much headway on account of the quality of our coal and our boilers foaming.

27^th                  Steaming down the coast with the monitor in tow untill 2.30 P.M. when droped her line and stood for Delaware Breakwater in company with the Mondanock her tender & the Mapasoit. Made Cape May at 5 P.M. and Cape Henlopen light in sight at 6 P.M. came to anchor inside Breakwater at 8.10 P.M.

28^th                  Still lying at anchor in Delaware Bay with a fresh wind from the W.S.W. and quite a sea outside. Are lying off Lewiston and in plain sight it seems to be a verry pleasant little town of from 8 to 12 hundred inhabitants situated on a low sandy beach at the base of Cape Henlopen

 

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Had target practice this P.M. at Quarters there were 25 shots fired the best shot was made by Cap^t Ammen

Oct 29             Got up anchor at 6.30 A.M. and stood out to sea at 7 A.M. took a line from the monitor wind W by N a good sailing breeze at 12M

Light on the starboard beam bearing W.

At 5.30 the buoy on Winter Quarter shoals bore W.M.W. and on the starboard bow

Oct 30^th           At daylight Hog Island light on starboard quarter Cape Henry on port beam. At 9 A.M. anchored in Hampton Roads just astearn of the Brooklyn.

Oct 31^st           Still laying at anchor with nothing new to record. It is a warm sunny day like Indian summer in York State. The villiage of Hampton lies just about ½ mile from us and what there is left of it exhibits an air of comfort and neatness but is strangly intermixed with shanties and rough board huts which have sprung up since it has been under martial law

 

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Nov 1^st            Much the same as yesterday with the exception that we have changed our anchorage are now attached to the North Atlantic Blockading Squadron under the command of Rear Ad^ml David Porter and are attached to Commodore [blank] division our divisional Flagship is the Colorado.

Nov 6^th            To day have got up anchor and steamed up to Portsmouth Navy Yard where we exchanged two of our light 30 pounders for 9 inch guns

Nov 8^th            Since the above date have been lying at Crany Island or what is called the coaling ground taking in coal. Norfolk appears to be a deserted place so still and desolate having been latly partially burned. It certainly is not what it was in her palmy days

At 5 P.M. up anchor and dropped down to Fortress Monroe.

Nov 9^th            Left Ft. M. as convoy for a couple of prizes bound for N.York had nasty weather nearly all the time untill the 11^th when the wind which had been in the S.W. came out of the N.N.W. made the Highlands at 10 A.M. of the 11^th ran up off Sandy Hook by at 2 P.M.

 

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Saw the prizes sally inside the Hook then wove ship and down the coast again at 9 P.M. Barnegat Light abeam.

Nov 12^th          At 5 A.M. Absecomb Light on starboard beam

At 6 A.M. Exchanged signals with the Susquehanna and Mandanock. During the P.M. came on to blow again from the S.W. got it pretty tough untill towards morning of the 13^th when it gave way

Nov 13^th          Still standing down the shore with a heavy sea and the ship rolling like mad Got inside Cape Henry at 4 P.M. and back to old anchorage at 9 P.M.

Nov 14^th          Had boat expedition to day landed at Fort Monroe where there was Battalion drill Ran quite close to the Famous Privateer Florida I think her an insignificant little thing and does not look as if she could do much harm

Nov 16            Again standing up towards Crany Island arrived at 4 P.M. and commenced coaling

Nov 17            Finished coaling to day still lying on the coaling ground expect to repair engines I believe

 

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Nov 20^th          Up anchor this P.M. and down to Fortress Monroe.

Nov 23^rd          Nothing of importance from the above date untill this morning got up anchor at 8 A.M. and stood out to sea. Passed Cape Henry at 10 A.M. At 8 P.M. Cape Hatteras abeam

Nov 24^th          As above except that it is warm are standing steadily down to the southward of Cape Hatteras. At 3½ P.M. sighted a steamer on Port bow awhile steering S by W ½ W. Altered our course and stood for her at 6 P.M. she at changed her course and stood for us at 7 P.M. Signallized and learned her to be the Double Under Mount Version.

Nov 25^th          After lying by all night with nothing but maintry sail & jib set at daylight sighted a steamer which we signallized at 8 A.M. proved be the Maumee. At 1½ P.M. dropped anchor off Wilmington and as our Capt is the Senior Officer of the fleet the Mohican is the flag ship at 5½ A.M. got up anchor and stood along the shore in company

 

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with the Monticello Mercedita Maumee Cherokee and Hauquah which comprises the entire blockading squadron at present off Wilmington. There is a report that there is two or three blockade runners and one Privateer lying now at Wilmington waiting a chance to slip out

Nov 26^th          Last night at 5½ we got up anchor and stood up and down the coast during the night nothing of importance occured and at 6 bells in the morning watch dropped anchor again During the day there was nothing unusual and at night we again got up anchor and repeated the previous nights opperations with the exception that at 20 minutes to 7 oclock P.M. there was a signal made from on shore that something was trying to run out to the northward. We immediately put our helm hard up and with full speed stood in that direction. After a run of 15 or 20 minutes we sighted a sail on our Port beam and fired a shot from our pivot gun across her bows but she proved to be one of our own vessels and as they all soon after came to and signalized we resumed our regular course This amounted to nothing except to demonstrate that our ships crew were prompt in getting to quarters and that the fleet were active and watchfull

 

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Nov 27^th          Let go our anchor at 7½ A.M. nearer the fortification than before still out of range I think as they fired a shot at some of the fleet from a heavy gun from the extremity of Federal Point. If they had our range their gun was ineffective as we did not hear or see anything of the shot. Think it was more of a bravado than anything else. We are having verry fine weather and many of the crew are having good luck with their fishing tackles The boatswain caught two skates about 20 inches long are a verry curious fish am unable to describe them

Nov 28^th          Verry much the same as yesterdays account Saw during the middle watch of night the flashes as we supposed of the guns either during a chase or an engagement they were well out to sea had one slight alarm as one of the tugs did not reply correctly when challenged but mended it the second time fishing going on as usual yesterday they served out one fish line to each mess all are busy today catching sea bass and skate

Nov 30^th          From the above date untill today nothing of note other than fine weather and good fishing At 3 P.M. got up anchor and stood out to sea steering S by E ½ E. Weather warm and pleasant people going barefoot

 

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Dec 2^ond          Nothing new or strange from the preceeding date till 1 P.M. today when sighted strange sail which we overhauled at sun set proved to be the Schooner Horace from Boston bound for Port Royal ladened with letters stores Weather still warm quite a contrast with what one might expect in York State

Dec 3^rd            At 7 A.M. fell in with the U.S.S. Tuscarora was boarded by her Sailing Master She was 2 days out from Fortress Monroe. Soon after sighted a sail which we chased and overhauled at 10 A.M. proved to be the Schooner Elizabeth from Bangor bound for Bermuda

At 5 P.M. sighted a fore & aft rigged steamer which was standing towards us at the time but changed her course and stood away on the port tack Soon after she again changed her course again and come down on us with her crew at quarters. On seeing this our people were called to quarters and the ship cleared for action We steamed on to meet her and when at about a pistol shot apart we again run up our colors and number as she also did when she proved to be the U.S.S. Gov. Buckingham.

Dec 4^th            At daybreak got up anchor where we had lain since about midnight on the bar and run up to our old anchorage off Wilmington.

 

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At 2 P.M. got up anchor and run in closer to the shore and our Capt took the bearings of several points after which we run up by the side of the Santiago de Cuba and then stood out to sea again. Steering to the S.S.E. ½ E. & as usual warm and pleasant good fishing here at An[ran off page]

Dec 5^th            Nothing of importance. Still running to the S.S.E. with a light breeze weather pleasant and warm enough for comfort.

Dec 6^th            As per column with the exception of a chase of a schooner and a steamer both of which were all right. At 2.30 P.M. dropped anchor in our old place off Wilmington at 5.30 P.M. got under way again and accompanied by the rest of the fleet stood in toward Fort Fisher and for a steamer which was this morning run into the tail of Carolina Shoals it was thought useless to do her farther injury as after close examination she was pronounced to be hard aground

At 9.30 P.M. set our top sails and away for Beaufort

Dec 7^th            At 10.30 A.M. let go our anchor just outside Shackleback Shoals off Beaufort are to make a trial to get in at high tide 2 P.M. weather has been since yesterday P.M. squally with frequent dashes of rain it is now quite rough here. The U.S.S. Rhode Island and a side wheeler which I did not know have just gone in

 

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Dec 8^th            Have lain at anchor all day with a stiff breeze from the N.W. The Susquehanna came in during the night and is at anchor just outside of us. Neither of us can go in on account of the water which is just now low on the bar

Dec 9^th            Still at our anchor with a gale blowing from the N.W. At 8 A.M. the U.S.S. Cherokee with a prize came in and succeeded in getting over the bar. At 4 P.M. the pilot came on board and we got up anchor and got across the bar in safety and at 6 P.M. dropped anchor just off Fort Macon in 5½ fathoms of water close astearn of the Cherokee.

Dec 12^th          From the above date to this nothing of more importance than 2 or 3 abortive attempts to get in coal did not succeed because the water was so rough that the schooner could not lay along side of us this P.M. have changed our anchorage are now farther up the harbour in smoother water The day is quite cold with a strong wind from the N.W. Thermometer at 26º in the sun Quite like a winters day at home a little to much so.

 

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Dec 13^th          Went ashore on the island on which is situated Fort Macon after an examination of the fort strolled up the beach after shells and to pass away time passed up to the uper end of the island and found it to be a wild almost barren island bank with only a few stunted cedars and a scanty covering of marsh grass

Dec 17^th          From the above till to day nothing more worthy of notice than that we have finished coaling and dropped outside the bar where we are busily engaged in putting our ship in shape for action. This is as we suppose preliminary to an attack on Wilmington the Malvern 3 monitors & several sail are now inside Beaufort bar while the Old Ironsides & the Rhode Island are lying just outside of us.

Dec 18^th          At midnight of the 17^th got up anchor and started for Wilmington at daylight saw to the S.W. the fleet or that part of it which is now lying at anchor off & to N of Wilmington. There are now here 15 men of war & 13 or 14 transports we are at anchor just ahead of the Colorado and astearn of the Wabash. In all probability the attack on the fortifications of Wilmington and as there is certainly a possibility that I may never live to make another

 

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entry in this. I request that if I am killed that some of my messmates will send the Bible album and this diarie together with my watch finger ring & portfolio to the following address to Ploudon Huggins Waterville Oneida Co New York

Also let the letters which are in my bag be sent with the same. Although I write this in case of a possible contingency yet I would not that if these lines should meet the gaze of any other person that they should think I am downhearted or nervously gloomy in view of the coming conflict for I realize that stranger things have happened and wish to be prepared for any emergency and want to insure the safe dispatch to my Parents of the above named articles as remembrances of me

Our ship is in as good shape for action as can be for one of her class and with a view of the fleet now congregated here and which I know are to join us I can have no doubts as to the final termination of the conflict. It is thought that or rather estimated that from 500 to 600 nine inch will be at one time to brought to bear upon the enemies works besides these there are a large number of rifled guns of various calibres from 6 inch to 300 pounders with these all playing I think it will be but a short job hope so at least

 

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Dec 22^ond        And we are still at anchor but not in the same place for we must have draged some distance It has blowed a gale since the 17^th part of the time from the S.W. and later from the N.W. the wind has died out somewhat now but there is yet a heavy sea The fleet is somewhat scattered but nearly all in sight. Can give no kind of a guess when the attack on Wilmington will take place because it is yet so rough

Dec 24^th          Nothing of importance as far the Mohican is concerned Although the powder boat was put in & exploded at about 3.30 this A.M. At daylight got up anchor and stood in for the Rebel works on Federal Point known as Fort Fisher and the Mounds. At 11 A.M. we got at work and pelted away at them for 4½ hours when we had expended all of our loaded shell and were ordered to withdraw out of range and load others Thus far we have had nobody hurt. The position occupied by the Mohican was between the Minnesota & the Colorado but owing to some difficulty with our anchor we did not keep it passing ahead of and inside of the Colorado. The fire which was directed against the Fort was terrific and the showers of sand & exploding magazines testified to its accuracy

 

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Dec 25^th          And a lovely morning again we went in and after some delay in which the New Ironsides and the monitors were playing away at the works which did not respond for some time the Minnesota then went in and took up her position nearly opposite the one which she occupied on the previous day but nearer by far to the Fort. Admiral Porter then directed our Capt to take up a position just under & close to the stern of the New ironsides but again our anchor fouled or was not let go in time and we forged past her & then brought to on her starboard quarter & consequently nearer to the Fort than she indeed we were at this time and all through the day that is as long as our amunition lasted we were nearest to the forts of any wooden ship. We were at it for 5 hours when we had again expended all our loaded shells. We were now ordered to report to Gen Butler & use our small boats in landing troops they were thus occupied till after dark At 5 P.M. a heavy explosion followed by a large fire & then by other explosions took place in the Rebel works and continued to burn till near midnight. During the evening there was a report along the lines that the Rebels were coming down from Wilmington in large forces accordingly we shelled the woods with what few 15 [?] shells we had.

 

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At midnight we got up anchor & regained our position in line of Battle it was blowing heavily at the time and accompanied by torrents of rain just as we dropped anchor on the bar a small tug run up and hailing asked us to give him a line as he was in a sinking condition after several attempts we succeeded in reaching him and he made fast to us and commenced to throw over coal thus lightened she rode out the night and at daylight went to report at the flag ship what became of her I do not know. The entire number of ships engaged in this expedition exclusive of the Army transports was 68 of which only 36 were actually engaged at one time the smaller craft were held as a reserve and did good service in shelling the woods on Federal point during the night. Although we silenced the guns of the fort and kept the Rebs within their bombproofs so that Butlers skirmish line were well inside the fort & brought away the Rebel flag and some 500 prisoners yet Gen. Butler reported the place as still to strong to render its assault & capture impractable. I must say I cant see the point. We have not been hit nor had any accidents during the entire action some other ships have not been so fortunate as a number were struck by shot &shell while more men were killed by the bursting of our own guns than by other means

 

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Jan 1^st 1865

            From last entry to this date nothing of more importance than that we have in company with nearly all the fleet have repaired to Beaufort off which place we have been lying for 3 or 4 days

At 11.30 A.M. we got up anchor and passed softly inside running however some pretty close chances twice grazing the sides of other ships and striking once on the bar when nearly to our berth a small sail boat either run into us or got in our way at least she was sadly demolished and that to in short metre.

Jan 3^rd             Having finished coaling ship yesterday and and having hoisted out our 100 pounder in to a schooner By the way this class of gun has been condemned and are to be discarded. Also we have sent down our topmasts & main yard & main top yard which are sent ashore to be stored untill after the second fight at Wilmington which is to come of before long.

Jan 4^th              Last night the port watch went ashore on liberty in Beaufort which is a forlorn & sandy dilapidated place of perhaps 800 or 1200 inhabitants the main attractions were sand & Negroes the place is under Military Law

 

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Jan 7^th              Still lying at anchor in the river just above Beaufort with nothing notable occuring do not know when we are to leave. We hear that after the coming fight we are to go North for repairs. Have to day received a notice or note from the Agent for Adam's Express Co at Fortress Monroe notifying me that there was a package there to my address which I have directed to be sent to me at this point

Jan 10^th            As above with nothing new to record other than the arrival of Gen Terry & several transports and also the prevalence of S.W. winds accompanied by scuds of rain for the last two days

Jan 12^th            Nothing of importance untill daylight when we got up anchor and off for Wilmington in company with a large number of men-of-war & several transports. It is a lovely day with a light wind from the N.W. rather cool but clear. Have been running within sight of land nearly all day and at dark were in sight of Fort Fisher. Still pleasant with a light wind from the W.N.W. We expect to attack the fort at 7 oclock tomorrow: nearly the same ships that participated before are again here

 

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Jan 13^th            At 8 A.M. the Ironsides attacked Fort Fisher backed by 4 monitors while the Brooklyn Mohican Vanderbilt & several of the gunboats shelled the woods on Federal point and then assisted with their small boats in landing troops. At 1.30 P.M. had landed nearly all the soldiers with amunition and provisions for ten days. They captured about 160 head of cattle and an unfinished fort At 3 P.M. we went in in company with the Brooklyn Minnesota Colorado Wabash Fort Jackson Tyconia Mackinaw Tuscarora Powhatan Susquehanna Santiago de Cuba &c &c and fought untill dark received no damage The enemy fired more briskly after our fire slackened. Our position to day was just inside the Brooklyn and next to the Ironsides. Gen^l Terrys skirmish line was advanced during the day to a point nearly as far near to the fort as they occupied at any time during the former attack The ironclads were working away all night.

 

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Jan 14^th            All day we have lain out of range while the Ironclads & small gunboats have been pelting away. The Rebs did not answer nor did we see anything stirring among the soldiers.

Jan 15^th            At daylight got up anchor and got into position just ahead of and with a line to the Ironsides where we lay all day

At 9.30 A.M. the armed boats were called away we landed from the Mohican 40 men 15 of whom were Marines. We were formed upon the beach under the command of Cap^t Dorson Lieuts Curry & Wallace. the sailors were under the command of Lieut. Com. Cushing We were marched up the beach to within musket shot distance from the fort and ordered to lie down. We lay there for at least 1 hour while the fleet were throwing shell over us at a signal the fleet ceased firing and we charged upon the fort up to this time we had not seen many men in the fort but so soon as the shell from the fleet ceased to fall

 

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into the fort they swarmed forth like bees from a hive with 7 shooting rifles and opened a verry destructive fire upon us after several vain attempts to get over the parapets we were ordered to fall back In this charge we accomplished all that was expected of us which was to draw their attention from the real storming party which consisted of two Army corps led by the 117^th N.Y.V. These after hard fighting succeeded in getting full possession by 10.30 P.M. The Marines after we had charged were ordered to Gen Terrys headquarters to assist in repelling an attack made by Braxton Bragg on our rear We lay in the trenches & earthworks all night but the Rebs did not renew the attack and the only thing we suffered was for the want of watch coat and from lying upon the wet sand

 

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Jan 16^th            At daylight I in company of 2 other Marines started for the fort where we arrived soon after sunrise while looking at the damage done by our shell we were blown violently into the air and I was landed outside the stockade by which the entire fort was surrounded I received no injury worthy of note although rather badly bruised The loss of life in the explosion was nearly as large as in the preceding days fight. At 11 A.M. we came aboard the ship and at 12.30 P.M. Russell Moore Graham & Ryan were sent on board toe Fort Jackson to be carried to the U.S. Naval Hospital at Norfolk all are quite badly wounded.

Jan 20^th            From the above date to this nothing of more importance has transpired than that we have come to Port Royal with dispatches for Gen Sherman. There is a report that we are to take part in an attack which is to be made upon Charleston

 

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Jan 25^th            At Noon today we received orders to get ready to leave the ship after we had packed up everything we were called aft to sign our accounts Due me up to the night of the 25^th inst $35.95.

At 1 P.M. we went on board a tug & were put ashore at Bay Point S.C. Lay on the floor in the upper story of the Light House that night. There were here about 100 Marines.

Jan 27^th            Still occupying our uncomfortable quarters in the Light House on Bay Point There are now here about 130 men divided into 4 Companies the Mohicans guard belongs to Co. D. Bay Point Island is a barren sand waste with a few pines & palmettos on its uper half there are at this date a large number of naval stores here & in process of erection several other store houses & a dock. There are a large number of Negroes employed about the point but I should think them unprofitable employees. Our destination is as yet unknown. The Mohican left this port just at night of the 26^th.

 

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Feb 2^ond           Nothing new except that there arrived per transport Kensington 125 naval recruits who are encamped just in the rear of our quarters and are drilling with muskets what is to be done with them is as yet unknown to us we have drill twice a day a Dress Parade at 5 P.M.

Feb 13^th           Still occupying our quarters at Bay Point which are now a little more comfortable. There has been added to our Company since the 2^ond a part of the "Mate of Georgias" guard. Received today letters from home of 16^th & 31^st and also one from N—ler. It is reported that Sherman has possession of James Island and has taken 4,000 prisoners also that 7,000 deserters from Hoods army have come in to his lines. There are also reports that we are to move soon but from all appearances I should say there no more signs than there were when we first came here Today two Corporals and the Sergeant who was acting Captain of Co D were reduced to the ranks for disobedience of orders

 

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Feb 22^ond         Untill this date things moved along in their accustomed channels. At guard mount we were told to be ready to move during the day and were told that we were to go to Charleston to bury with military honors the remains of Lieut Bradford U.S.M. Corps who was killed in an assault on Fort Sumpter some 16 months since. Owing to some delay the steamer which was to convey us to that port did not arrive untill late at night. We participated in the celebration of Washingtons Birthday. All the ships in the harbour were splendidly illuminated and large quantities of fireworks were also burned.

Feb 23^rd           At 10 A.M. went aboard a tug and were put aboard the U.S.S. "Let Her Rip" which was formerly a blockade runner. We soon after put to sea and arrived just at dusk of Charleston without incident worthy of notice except being brought to by a shot from the Harvest Moon

Feb 24^th           At daylight got under way and went into Charleston and dropped anchor near the Philadelphia soon after we were ordered to Georgetown soon after we had got to sea it commenced to rain and poured down as if striving to drown us untill past midnight we had to work at the pumps all night to keep the iron shell afloat and dared not get under way so as to work our steam pumps as

 

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we did the previous night because we were surrounded by breakers. just at dusk we sent the 1^st cutter ashore to state to the Officer in command our situation and asking for a pilot to take us in at any hazard as we were in a sinking condition But none came and we worked all night

Feb 25^th           As soon as it was light we saw a tug coming out of the harbour with the pilots flag flying. As soon as he was on board we got up anchor and run in through a narrow opening in the reef and soon after were steaming up Winyah Bay. Then up the Big Peedee till we came abreast of a fort which had originally mounted 17 guns and which the Rebs had evacuated some time before. This had been occupied by 50 Marines under the command of Lieut Breese. While lying here and just as the Commanding Officer of the Battalion came back from a visit to the fort a small steam launch belonging to the Pawnee came down from Georgetown & reported that the Rebel Cavalry had attacked a few sailors from the Mingoe who had strolled into the town killed one and carried of 3 prisoners And that the commander of the Mingoe wished the Battalion to hurry up and drive them out of town as he did not wish to shell the

 

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as the inhabitants had claimed protection We immediately started up the river with full steam & soon were alongside the wharf where we were welcomed by three cheers from the crew of the Mingoe & cries of joy from the Negroes & other inhabitants. So soon as possible we landed and marched out to the road which the Cavalry came in by and threw out one Co as pickets then the remainder were marched through the principal streets of the town but could find no Rebs. We then took up our quarters in a building formerly used as a Masonic Hall & later occupied of a Company of Rebel Artillery. We were not disturbed during the night.

Feb 26^th           Went out on pass through the town during the day had dinner at the Hotell it consisted of bacon, eggs, fresh pork, beans rice bread corn bread, boiled rice, rye coffee, and milk. The town looks lonely & deserted the houses being verry much out of repair no stores are open The market was opened to day by order of the Provost Marshal.

 

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Feb 27^th           Nothing of importance happened during the day but at 11.30 P.M. a small body of men were hailed and fired upon by the pickets this had the effect desired by the picket viz to turn out the Battalion under arms but we learned that it was a false alarm in time to save a march to the picket line

Feb 28^th           As per column untill 8 P.M. when we were reinforced by 100 men from the north part of a Battalion fitted out at Brooklyn

March 3^rd        As per column untill 3 P.M. when Co^s A and D were ordered to pack up and were marched down to the wharf where we found a tug awaiting us which took us down to Fort White where we relieved a squad of sailors & 25 Marines who were there to hold the place. Fort White is a strong earthwork which mounted 17 guns all of which were spiked & dismounted by the Rebs before they left

March 6^th        Nothing of importance untill 2 P.M. when the order was passed for the Mohicans Guard together with 2 others to be ready at a

 

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moment notice to go aboard the U.S.S. State of Georgia for transportation to their respective ships. At 6 P.M. the remainder of the Battalion joined us having been relieved of the 157^th N.Y.S.V. & the 56 Mass. S.V.

March 7^th        At 10 A.M. we went aboard a tug and were put aboard the State of Georgia which was lying at the entrance to the Bay. Run down & anchored of Charleston Bar about midnight.

March 8^th        Went into the Harbour for orders and were ordered to proceed to Ossabaw Bay where the Mohican was lying. We were obliged to wait untill the tide was again at the flood which was at 3 P.M. But when 3 o'clock came there was so dense a fog that we were unable to get out

March 9^th        As before when it was high tide the fog was so thick we could not move. At 11 A.M. we run down nearly to the bar to await the P.M.'s tide and were at last successfull in getting out although we struck 3 or 4 times quite hard

 

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March 10^th      At 3 P.M. arrived off the entrance of Ossabaw Sound and sent a boat in through which we learned that the Mohican had left for Port Royal in the morning. It was however so late that we could not get out to sea.

March 11^th      Got up anchor at daylight and off for Port Royal where we arrived at 1.30 P.M. went ashore at Bay Point for bags & hammocks and then aboard the M— Put to sea at 5 P.M. as convoy to the monitor Monadnock. Came to anchor off Charleston bar at 12M.

March 12^th      Got up anchor at 4.30 A.M. and away for Hampton Roads.

March 14^th      At 3 P.M. while off Hatteras our air pump came out. As we were disabled the Monadnock took us in tow. As she came down towards us she miscalculated her distance and colided with us doing us no great damage only starting our cutwater & stern Our fore chains smashed the Monadnocks gig which was on the davits at the time

 

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March 15         Arived at Hampton Roads early this A.M. where we are to await orders

March 18^th      Received orders this A.M. to proceed to Washington for repairs got up anchor at 10 A.M. come to anchor off Point Lookout at midnight

March 19^th      Got up anchor at 5.30 A.M. and run up the Potomac to Fort Washington where we dropped anchor just at the dusk Fort Washington is a strong stone work situated on an abrupt bluff commanding the river for some miles each way.

March 20^th      Got up anchor at daybreak and run up as far as Alexandria. Took a pilot here and then proceeded up the river to Washington Navy Yard. Made fast to the wharf at 11.30 A.M. The monitor Montauk is lying at the dock awaiting some repairs on her turret which she needs sadly. she shows signs of having had a pretty tough time as her turret is indented in many places from shot

 

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March 21^st       As per column with this exception that the ship has been thronged with visitors of both sexes during daylight at 5 P.M. the Chief Justice of the U.S. was on board to see us

March 22^ond    As before all day have Ladies & Gents of all ages & stations been coming & going although a strong cutting wind from the N.W. has been blowing with occasional scuds of rain It is not as yet decided whether we will be repaired here or not that is farther than the necessary repairs on her engine.

23^rd                  As per column. At 2 P.M. Washington was visited by quite a tornado accompanied with rain & hail. The wind came from the N.W. and with such force as to tear up and carry away large portions of the tin roofing of several of the buildings in the yard. The storm lasted about one hour at 3.30 P.M. The Hon. Sec. of State & his Lady Miss H. Lane and several other celebrities visited the ship. The weather was cold and with a raw wind after the storm

 

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March 24^th      As per column. Weather cold & cloudy visitors as frequent as usual had a little scud of snow this A.M.

April 1^st           As per column till 4 P.M. when we cast loose from the wharf and started down the stream run down about ½ mile and run aground on a bar

Received letter from home of 29^th from M J of 19^th Mark

April 3^rd          As per column till 1.30 P.M. when we got afloat and run down the river & anchored off Alexandria

The forts around Washington fired a salute for the capture of Petersburg with the destruction of 30,000 Con soldiers also the capture of Richmond.

April 4^th          Got under way at 8 A.M. and steamed down the river till 12.30 P.M. when we got onto a bar off Aquia Creek got off at 1.30 P.M. with the assistance of ferry boat which was bound down the river passed Mount Vernon at 10 A.M. Weather fine wind S.S.W. Anchored at Maryland point at 7 P.M.

 

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April 5^th          Got up anchor at daylight and run down the river without any incident worthy of record passed Point Lookout at 2 P.M. and got to sea at 11.30 P.M.

April 6^th          At sea nothing of importance Weather fine wind S.S.W. freshening a little at dark

April 7^th          As per column till 4 P.M. when we passed Block Island on the port hand. hauled up & stood in for Newport R. I. arrived at 8.40 P.M. Weather fine untill 5 P.M. when the wind chopped around to the W.N.W. with a heavy rain

April 8^th          Got up anchor at 8.30 A.M. and got to sea stood for Gay Head. got abreast of that point at M and opposite Holmes Hole at 3.30 P.M. Weather fine wind S.E. at 4.30 were crossing Nantucket Shoals got over through the Southern channel with 1 or 2 narrow rubs. At 5.30 P.M. Sanctity Head light on port beam At 6 P.M. Chatham light abeam P. at 7 P.M. Northern Beach light on port bow at 9.30 Northern Beach light abeam. At midnight Cape Cod light on port beam. Wind strong in N. by E.

 

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April 9^th          At 8 A.M. dropped anchor in Charlestown Navy Yard weather fine wind N.

April 12^th        Still lying at anchor in navy yard weather cloudy with scuds of rain wind cold from W.N.W.

April 18^th        As per column. Yesterday heard of the assassination of President Lincoln and also of Sec Sewards danger and the death of his son Fred'^k. 101 minute guns were fired from the Navy Yard and all the flags were half-masted and remain so still. Weather fine wind W. by S.

April 19^th        As per column till 6 P.M. when we left the ship and went into Barracks.

May 1^st            Nothing of importance has transpired worthy of notice have been on guard twice and on liberty three times. Received a letter from home this eve

May 2^ond          As per column Weather cold wind N.E. had considerable rain last night.

SOURCES