JUNE OR, Ser. I, Vol. 23, pt. II, p June 1, Fremantle's observations on the Army of Tennessee

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1 June 1, 1863 JUNE 1863 June 1, Scouts from Forrest's cavalry in the Nashville, Murfreesborough and Franklin environs and release of civilian prisoners in Franklin by Federal authorities SPRING HILL, June 1, p. m. Gen. BRAGG: My scouts have just returned from Franklin, and report the enemy have released all the citizen prisoners and are under marching orders. I will move up in the morning as near Franklin as possible, and remain as near the enemy as prudent, and would like the balance of the cavalry to move up, if you think it advisable. N. B. FORREST, Brig.-Gen., Cmdg. June 1, Fremantle's observations on the Army of Tennessee OR, Ser. I, Vol. 23, pt. II, p st June, Monday.-We all went to a review of General Liddell's brigade at Bellbuckle, a distance of six miles. There were three carriages full of ladies, and I rode an excellent horse, the gift of General John Morgan to General Hardee. The weather and the scenery were delightful. General Hardee asked me particularly whether Mr. Mason had been kindly received in England. I replied that I thought he had, by private individuals. I have often found the Southerners rather touchy on this point. General Liddell's brigade was composed of Arkansas troops five very weak regiments which had suffered severely in the different battles, and they cannot be easily recruited on account of the blockade of the Mississippi. The men were good-sized, healthy, and well clothed, but without any attempt at uniformity in color or cut; but nearly all were dressed either in gray or brown coats and felt hats. I was told that even if a regiment was clothed in proper uniform TENNESSEE CIVIL WAR SOURCEBOOK June 1863 Page 1

2 June 1, 1863 by the Government, it would become parti-colored again in a week, as the soldiers preferred wearing the coarse homespun jackets and trousers made by their mothers and sisters at home. The Generals very wisely allow them to please themselves in this respect, and insist only upon their arms and accoutrements being kept in order. Most of the officers were dressed in uniform which is neat and serviceable, viz.,: a bluish gray frock coat of a color similar to Austrian yagers. NOTE 1 The infantry wear blue facings, the artillery red, the doctors black, the staff white, and the cavalry yellow; so it is impossible to mistake the branch of the service to which an officer belongs nor is it possible to mistake his rank. A second lieutenant, first, lieutenant, and captain, wear respectively one, two, and three bars on the collar. A major, lieutenant colonel, and colonel, wear one, two and three stars on the collar. Before the marching past of the brigade, many of the soldiers had taken off their coats and marched past the general in their shirt sleeves, on account of the warmth. Most of them were armed with Enfield rifles captured from the enemy. Many, however, had lost or thrown away their bayonets, which they don't appear to value properly, as they assert that they have never met any Yankees who would wait for that weapon. I expressed a desire to see them form square, but it appeared they were "not drilled to such a manoeuvre" (except square two deep.) They said the country did not admit of cavalry charges, even if the Yankee cavalry had stomach to attempt it. Each regiment carried a "battle-flag," blue, with a white border, on which were inscribed the names "Belmont," "Shiloh," "Perryville," "Richmond, Ky.," and "Murfreesboro'." They drilled tolerably well, and an advance in line was remarkably good; but Gen. Liddell had invented several dodges of his own, for which he was reproved by General Hardee. The review being over, the troops were harangued by Bishop Elliott in an excellent address, partly religious, partly patriotic. He was followed by a Congressman of vulgar appearance, named Hanley, from Arkansas, who delivered himself of a long and uninteresting political oration, and ended by announcing himself as a candidate for reelection. This speech seemed to me (and to others) particularly ill-timed, out of place, and ridiculous, addressed as it was to soldiers in front of the enemy. But this was one of the results of universal suffrage. The soldiers afterwards wanted General Hardee to say something, but he declined. I imagine that the discipline in this army is the strictest in the Confederacy, and that the men are much better marchers, than those I saw in Mississippi. A soldier was shot in Wartrace this afternoon. We heard the volley just as we left in the cars for Shelbyville. His crime was desertion to the enemy; and as the prisoner's brigade was at Tullahoma (twenty miles off,) he was executed without ceremony by the Provost Guard. Spies are hung every now and then; but General Bragg told me it was almost impossible for either side to stop the practice. Page 2 June 1863 TENNESSEE HISTORICAL COMMISSION

3 June 1, 1863 Bishop Elliott, Dr. Quintard, and myself got back to General Polk's quarters at 5 P. M., where I was introduced to a Colonel Styles, who was formerly United States Minister at Vienna. In the evening I made the acquaintance of General Wheeler, Van Dorn's successor in the command of the caval[r]y of this army, which is over 24,000 strong. He is a very little man, only twenty-six years of age, and was dressed in a coat much too big for him. He made his reputation by protecting the retreat of the army through Kentucky last year. He was a graduate of West Point, and seems a remarkable zealous' officer, besides being very modest and unassuming in his manners. General Polk told me that, notwithstanding the departure of Breckinridge, this army is now much stronger than it was at the time of the battle of Murfreesboro'. I think that probably 45,000 infantry and artillery could be brought together immediately for a battle. Fremantle, Three Months, pp NOTE 1: In the German army of the day, one belonging to a body of light infantry armed with rifles, resembling the chasseur of the French army. Also spelled "jager." June 1, Lincoln county voters choose delegates to the Tennessee state Confederate nominating convention "Public Meeting." At a meeting of the voters of Lincoln county assembled at the courthouse in Fayetteville, on Monday, June 1st, 1863, James D. Grizzard, Esq., was appointed Chairman, and S. H. McCord, Secretary. Whereupon a motion of Col. James B. Lamb, it was resolved, 1st. That we approve of the Convention called to assemble at Winchester on the 17th inst, for the purpose of designating a candidate for Governor and members of Congress. 2nd. That all citizens of this county who can conveniently attend at Winchester on that day, be, and they are hereby appointed delegates to represent this county in the Convention. J. D. Grizzard, Ch'n. S. H. McCord, Sec. June 1, Artillery practice at Fort Negley and the State House Fayetteville Observer, June 4, target shooting was pracktised today from 1 to 2 by the sedge guns in the fort and from the large guns at the State house the distance nearly 2 miles John Hill Fergusson Diary, Book 3. TENNESSEE CIVIL WAR SOURCEBOOK June 1863 Page 3

4 June 2, 1863 June 2, Skirmish at Thompson's Station Dyer's Battle Index for Tennessee. June 2, General Braxton Bragg joins the Protestant Episcopal Church Gen. Braxton Bragg has joined the Protestant Episcopal Church. He was confirmed a few days since at his quarters in Shelbyville, The Rt. Rev. Bishop Elliott, of the diocese of Georgia, officiating. The above item, which appeared in the Mercury of the 15th, is not exactly correct. Gen. Bragg was not 'confirmed at his quarters.' On Tuesday evening, June 2, after evening prayer, in the church of the Holy Redeemer, Shelbyville, Tenn., Gen. Bragg received the Apostolic rite of confirmation at the hand of Bishop Elliott. The service was not private, as has been stated in some newspapers. Gen. Polk and staff and a respectable congregation were present on the occasion. Yours truly, C. T. Quintard, Chaplain 1st Tennessee Regiment. Shelbyville, Tenn., June 18, Chattanooga Daily Rebel, July 2, NOTE 1 NOTE 1: As cited from the Charleston Mercury, June 15, June 2, Bragg issues General Orders No. 18, relative to refugee policy GENERAL ORDERS, No. 18. HDQRS. DEPARTMENT No. 2, Tullahoma, Tenn., June 2, The enemy has seen fit to expel from his lines and send to our midst not only those supposed to be guilty of crimes, but non-combatants found at their homes in the peaceful pursuits of life. In the perpetration of these outrages on humanity, and these violations of civilized warfare, he has prostituted the flat of truce to the base purpose of protecting the guards who drive forth these exiles. Hereafter that flag will not protect those guards, but they will be seized and sent forward to be treated as spies or prisoners of war, as the circumstances in each case may require. By command of Gen. Bragg June 2, "Military Hospitals Chap. XXI. OR, Ser. I, Vol. 23, pt. II, pp Number 9.-The hospital is situated at 62 North Market street, the buildings formerly occupied by W. H. Townsend, as a carriage manufactory. The neighborhood is not a very pleasant one, being in close proximity to the ordnance Page 4 June 1863 TENNESSEE HISTORICAL COMMISSION

5 June 2, 1863 department, the saddle and harness ship, the blacksmith ship and shoeing establishment and the street being traversed by more army wagons than perhaps any other in town, except Broad street, which is much wider and consequently less noisy. Yet notwithstanding these drawbacks the external and internal appearance of the hospital will bear favorable comparison with any in the city, so far as constant care and attention, industry [and physical?] verance can accomplish the object. The street in front, and the outside of the building, are well watered and kept clean, as well as the wards, offices, and store rooms inside, even to the remote and comparatively dark corners. Officers and Attendants. Surgeon in Charge-E. G. White, Acting Asst. Surg. Assistant-A. Achenback, Acting Asst. Surg. Steward and Druggist-Harry Dobbs, U. S. Volunteers Ward Masters-Phineas Runyan and John O'Brien Matron-Mrs. Norton Chaplain-None There are ten nurses, one white cook, three colored cooks, five colored females for washing and ironing, and three colored males for other duties. For patients there are 150 iron cots, 65 of which were occupied on Friday last, leaving 85 vacant. The Christian Commission occasionally send a Chaplain to this hospital on Sundays and week-days, and when any visit there they have religious services at 10 a. m. Sunday, and sometimes prayers during other days. There are only two wards in the hospital, each 108 feet long by 411/2 feet wide, and 121/2 high. They are very comfortable, well ventilated, sufficiently light, and remarkably clean. Very few patients are unable to leave their beds. The Dispensary is a remarkably neat little room on the second floor front, and the Ward Master's room is opposite. On each floor is a knapsack room, a wash and bath room, and water closer, all in good order. The storeroom occupies about twenty feet square of the front of the lower floor, and contains, in additions to a good supply of commissary stores, etc., the unclaimed effects of deceased soldiers. The kitchen and dining room is in the rear of the lower ward, in a separate building. It is rather larger than is needed for a kitchen, but would make a splendid dining room. We would respectfully suggest the erection of a temporary building in the rear of this room for a kitchen, and the conversion of the old building into a dining room, at least during the summer season. The washhouse, or laundry, is a comfortable temporary building, with every convenience necessary, and ample for any emergency. TENNESSEE CIVIL WAR SOURCEBOOK June 1863 Page 5

6 June 2, 1863 The yard is well fenced in by the remnants of some old Confederate wooden cots, the slats making a substantial picket fence. The linen room is well stocked and well kept, and accounts are kept in a book between the room and the patients of all clothing received and returned by the inmates of the hospital. The offices of the Surgeon in Charge and the Steward, and the private rooms, of these gentlemen, the assistant Surgeons, clerk, matron, etc., are in the range of brick buildings on Front street, in the rear of the hospitals. The hospital authorities have contracted a sewer from the hospital to the river, through which flows all the waste water from every part of the hospital, saving much time and adding to the cleanliness and health of the establishment. The rooms are all sufficiently light, and very clean, frequent applications of time being made in all the apartments, and outside also. Most of the patients were amusing themselves reading and writing. The Silent Monitors NOTE 1 hang upon the walls of the wards. There are a few leaks in the roof, which need attending to, and which; measures have already been taken to have repaired. We need scarcely say that the same courtesy which we have received at all the hospitals was extended to us in No. 9, for which the officers will receive our thanks. NOTE 1: Not identified. Nashville Dispatch, June 2, June 2, "... the only way in which an officer could acquire influence over the Confederate soldiers was by his personal conduct under fire." Fremantle's observations on the Army of Tennessee 2d June, Tuesday.-Colonel Grenfell and I rode to the outposts, starting on the road to Murfreeshoro' at 6 A. M. It rained hard nearly all day. He explained to me the method of fighting adopted by the Western cavalry, which he said was admirably adapted for this country; but he denied that they could, under any circumstances, stand a fair charge of regular cavalry in the open. Their system is to dismount and leave their horses in some secure place. One man is placed in charge of his own and three other horses, whilst the remainder act as infantry skirmishers in the dense woods and broken country, making a tremendous row, and deceiving the enemy as to their numbers, and as to their character as infantry or cavalry. In this manner Morgan, assisted by two small guns, called bulldogs, attacked the Yankees with success in towns, forts, stockades, and steamboats; and by the same system, Wheeler and Wharton kept a large pursuing army in check for twenty-seven days, retreating and fighting every day, and deluding the enemy with the idea that they were being resisted by a strong force composed of all three branches of the service. Page 6 June 1863 TENNESSEE HISTORICAL COMMISSION

7 June 2, 1863 Colonel Grenfell told me that the only way in which an officer could acquire influence over the Confederate soldiers was by his personal conduct under fire. They hold a man in great esteem who in action sets them an example of contempt for danger; but they think nothing of an officer who is not in the habit of leading them; in fact such a man could not possibly retain his position. Colonel Grenfell's expression was, "every atom of authority has to be purchased by a drop of your blood." He told me he was in desperate hot water with the civil authorities of the State, who accuse him of illegally impressing and appropriating horses, and also of conniving at the escape of a negro from his lawful owner, and he said that the military authorities were afraid or unable to give him proper protection. For the first nine miles our road was quite straight and hilly, with a thick wood on either side. We then reached a pass in the hills called Guy's Gap, which, from the position of the hills, is very strong, and could be held by a small force. The range of hills extends as far as Wartrace, but I understand the position could be turned on the left. About two miles beyond Guy's Gap were the headquarters of General Martin, the officer who commands the brigade of cavalry stationed in the neighborhood. General Martin showed me the letter sent by the Yankees a few days ago by flag of truce with Mr. Vallandigham. This letter was curiously worded, and ended, as far as I can remember, with this expression: "Mr. Vallandigham is therefore handed over to the respectful attention of the Confederate authorities." General Martin told me that skirmishing and bushwhacking went on nearly every day, and that ten days ago the enemy's cavalry, by a bold dash, had captured a field piece close to his own quarters. It was, however retaken, and its captors were killed. One of General Martin's staff officers conducted us to the bivouac of Colonel Webb, (three miles further along the road,) who commanded the regiment on outpost duty there 51st Alabama Cavalry. This Colonel Webb was a lawyer by profession, and seemed a capital fellow; and he insisted on riding with us to the videttes in spite of the rain, and he also desired his regiment to turn out for us by the time we returned. The extreme outposts were about two miles beyond Colonel Webb's post, and about sixteen miles from Shelbyville. The neutral ground extended for about three miles. We rode along it as far as it was safe to do so; and just came within sight of the Yankee videttes. The Confederate videttes were at an interval of from 300 to 400 yards of each other. Colonel Webb's regiment was in charge of two miles of the front; and, in a similar manner, the chain of videttes was extended by other corps right and left for more than eighty miles. Scouts are continually sent forward by both sides to collect information. Rival scouts and pickets invariably fire on one another whenever they meet; and Colonel Webb good-naturedly offered, if I was particularly anxious to see their customs and habits, to send forward a few men and have a little fight. I thanked him much for his kind offer, but begged he wouldn't trouble himself so far on my account. He showed me the house where Vallandigham had been "dumped down" between the outposts when they refused to receive him by flag of truce. TENNESSEE CIVIL WAR SOURCEBOOK June 1863 Page 7

8 June 3, 1863 The woods on both sides of the road showed many signs of the conflicts which are of daily occurrence. Most of the houses by the roadside had been destroyed; but one plucky old lady had steadfastly refused to turn out, although her house was constantly an object of contention, and showed many marks of bullets and shell. Ninety-seven men were employed every day in Colonel Webb's regiment to patrol the front. The remainder of the 51st Alabama were mounted and drawn up to receive Colonel Grenfell on our return from the outposts. They were uniformly armed with long rifles and revolvers, but without sabres, and they were a fine body of young men. Their horses were in much better condition than might have been expected, considering the scanty food and hard duty they had had to put up with for the last five months, without shelter of any kind, except the trees. Colonel Grenfell told me they were a very fair specimen of the immense number of cavalry with Bragg's army. I got back to Shelbyville at 4.30 P. M., just in time to be present at an interesting ceremony peculiar to America. This was a baptism at the Episcopal Church. The ceremony was performed in an impressive manner by Bishop Elliott, and the person baptized was no less than the commander-in-chief of the army. The Bishop took the General's hand in his own (the latter kneeling in front of the font,) and said, "Braxton, if thou hast not already been baptized, I baptize thee," &c. Immediately afterwards he confirmed General Bragg, who then shook hands with General Polk, the officers of their respective staffs and myself, who were the only spectators. The soldiers on sentry at General Polk's quarters this afternoon were deficient both of shoes and stockings. These were the first barefooted soldiers I had yet seen in the Confederacy. I had intended to have left Shelbyville to-morrow with Bishop Elliott; but as I was informed that a reconnoissance in force was arranged for to-morrow, I accepted General Polk's kind offer of further hospitality for a couple of days more. Four of Polk's brigades with artillery move to the front to-morrow, and General Hardee is also to push forward from Wartrace. The object of this movement is to ascertain the enemy's strength at Murfreesboro', as rumor asserts that Rosecrans is strengthening Grant in Mississippi, which General Bragg is not disposed to allow with impunity. The weather is now almost chilly. June 3, Federal scouts about Carthage Fremantle, Three Years, pp HDQRS. FOURTH TENNESSEE CAVALRY REGT., Trousdale Ferry, June 3, 1863 Sundown. Gen. WHARTON: A courier has just arrived from my picket stand. He reports the Yankees leaving Carthage. One of Capt. [J. W. ] Nichols' men, who is in the advanced picket post, was in the vicinity of Carthage, and says their wagons were going toward Page 8 June 1863 TENNESSEE HISTORICAL COMMISSION

9 June 3, 1863 Gallatin, guarded by their cavalry. The infantry were this side of the Cumberland, on the Rome road, and reliable citizens report six pieces of artillery with them. The scout did not see the artillery. Another scout, coming in late this evening, reports the Yankee infantry near Rome on the march. I have two other scouts out, and when they return I will, perhaps, have more definite information. Very respectfully, P. F. ANDERSON. P. S. -Maj. [W. S. ] Bledsoe went off this evening with three companies, for the purpose of burning a steamboat which was grounded about 4 miles above Rome. I am fearful he will not be successful, as the enemy are moving on the Rome road. Their destination appears to be Murfreesborough. [Indorsement.] GEN.: This force of the enemy is being watched, and, when its destination is definitely ascertained, it will be promptly reported to you. When it reaches Lebanon, will report to you whether it takes the Nashville or Lebanon road. Respectfully, your obedient servant, JNO. A. WHARTON, Brig.-Gen., Cmdg. Cavalry Division. June 3, Skirmish near Murfreesborough OR, Ser. I, Vol. 23, pt. II, pp Report of Maj. Frank W. Mix, Fourth Michigan Cavalry. HDQRS. FOURTH MICHIGAN CAVALRY, Murfreesborough, Tenn., June 4, SIR: On the 3d instant, about 1.30 p. m., I received orders from the colonel commanding to take 100 men and go immediately to our pickets on the Wartrace road, as our pickets had been attacked and driven back. I arrived on the ground about 2 o'clock. I found the cavalry reserve of the Fourth Michigan Cavalry, under Lieut. Vanantwerp, on the ground occupied by the reserve, but that we had been driven back two or three times, and were then skirmishing with 200 or 300 of the rebel cavalry. After taking a look at them, I sent an orderly back to brigade headquarters, and immediately sent forward two companies, under Capt. Leach, mounted, as skirmishers. He drove them a short distance, when they dismounted, and, getting behind a fence, they had the advantage of us. I recalled my men and sent forward two other companies, dismounted, under Capt.'s Pritchard and Hathaway, who drove them about threefourths of a mile and across the river. The enemy now opened on us with two pieces of artillery at short range. Their firing was so accurate that I was obliged to move the rest of my command under cover of a hill. I called the most of my skirmishers, leaving only TENNESSEE CIVIL WAR SOURCEBOOK June 1863 Page 9

10 June 3, 1863 enough to watch their movements. In the mean time I had sent Capt. Robbins to the Manchester pike to ascertain the cause of the firing in that direction. He soon returned with the information that about 500 of the rebel cavalry were drawn up in line a field lately occupied by our vedettes. I was now joined by Lieut.-Col. Pike with the balance of the regiment. We sent out scouts in different directions, but before they returned Col. Minty came up, bringing the Seventh Pennsylvania, Third Indiana, and Lieut. Newell's section of artillery. The artillery soon drove them from the old buildings on the opposite side of the river where they had taken shelter. I was sent across the river to burn the buildings and scour the country. I found the enemy had all fallen back, so I burned the buildings and rejoined the command, arriving in camp about 9 o'clock. We wounded 3 of the rebels; no casualties on our side. As near as I could judge, they had about 300 men on the Wartrace road; but from information I obtained on the opposite side of the river, they had more than that, with six pieces of artillery. I am, very respectfully, your obedient servant, FRANK W. MIX, Maj. Fourth Michigan Cavalry. June 3, Mule drive captured on Gallatin Pike OR, Ser. I, Vol. 23, pt. I, p NASHVILLE, June 3, G. GODDARD, Assistant Adjutant-Gen.: Drove of 175 mules on Gallatin pike captured. Guerrillas crossed the Cumberland at p. m. to-day. Stated they would be at Lebanon before dark, where Wheeler would be met with his cavalry division. Cavalry sent from here on both sides of river in pursuit, but have not overtaken them. R. S. GRANGER, Brig.-Gen. OR, Ser. I, Vol. 23, pt. II, p June 3, "... I experienced a disagreeable sensation, like screwing up my back... " Fremantle's observations on the Army of Tennessee 3d June, Wednesday.-Bishop Elliott left for Savannah at 6 A. M., in a down pour of rain, which continued nearly all day. Grenfell came to see me this morning in a towering rage. He had been arrested in his bed by the civil power on a charge of horse-stealing, and conniving at the escape of a negro from his master. General Bragg himself had stood bail for him, but Grenfell was naturally furious at the indignity. But, even according to his own account, he seems to have acted indiscreetly in the affair of the negro, and he will have to appear before the civil court next October. General Polk and his officers were all much Page 10 June 1863 TENNESSEE HISTORICAL COMMISSION

11 June 3, 1863 vexed at the occurrence, which, however, is an extraordinary and convincing proof that the military had not superceded the civil power in the Southern States; for here was an important officer arrested, in spite of the commanderin-chief, when in the execution of his office before the enemy. By standing bail, General Bragg gave a most positive proof that he exonerated Grenfell from any malpractices. In the evening, after dark, General Polk drew my attention to the manner in which the signal beacons were worked. One light was stationary on the ground, whilst another was moved backwards and forwards over it. They gave us intelligence that General Hardee had pushed the enemy to within five miles of Murfreesboro', after heavy skirmishing all day. I got out of General Polk the story of his celebrated adventure with the Indiana (Northern) regiment, which resulted in the almost total destruction of that corps. I had often during my travels heard officers and soldiers talking of this extraordinary feat of the "Bishop's." The modest yet graphic manner in which Gen. Polk related this wonderful instance of coolness and bravery was extremely interesting, and I now repeat it, as nearly as I can, in his own words. "Well, sir, it was at the battle of Perryville, late in the evening in fact, it was almost dark when Liddell's brigade came into action. Shortly after its arrival I observed a body of men, whom I believed to be Confederates, standing at an angle to this brigade. and firing obliquely at the newly arrived troops. I said. 'Dear me, this is very sad, and must be stopped; so I turned round, but could find none of my young men, who were absent on different messages; so I determined to ride myself and settle the matter. Having cantered up to the colonel of the regiment which was firing, I asked him in angry tones what he meant by shooting his own friends, and I desired him to cease doing so at once. He answered with surprise, 'I don't think there can be any mistake about it; I am sure they are the enemy.' 'Enemy!' I said; 'why, I have only just left them myself. Cease firing, sir; what is your name, sir?" "My name is Colonel, of the Indiana; and pray, sir, who are you?" "Then for the first time I saw, to my astonishment, that he was a Yankee, and that I was in rear of a regiment of Yankees.-Well, I saw that there was no hope but to brazen it out; my dark blouse and the increasing obscurity befriended me, so I approached quite close to him and shook my fist in his face, saying, 'I'll soon show you who I am, sir; cease firing, sir, at once.' I then turned my horse and cantered slowly down the line, shouting in an authoritative manner to the Yankees to cease firing; at the same time I experienced a disagreeable sensation, like screwing up my back, and calculating how many bullets would be between my shoulders every moment. I was afraid to increase my pace until I got to a small copse, when I put the spurs in and galloped back to my men. I immediately went up to the nearest colonel, and said to him, 'Colonel, I have reconnoitered those fellows pretty closely and I find there is no mistake who they are; you may get up and go at them.' And I assure you, sir, that the slaughter of that Indiana regiment was the greatest I have ever seen in the war." TENNESSEE CIVIL WAR SOURCEBOOK June 1863 Page 11

12 June 3, 1863 It is evident to me that a certain degree of jealous feeling exists between the Tennesseean and Virginian armies. This one claims to have had harder fighting than the Virginian army, and to have been opposed to the best troops and best generals of the North. The Southerners generally appear to estimate highest the northwestern Federal troops, which compose in a great degree the armies of Grant and Rosecrans; they come from the States of Ohio, Iowa, Indiana, &c. The Irish Federals are also respected for their fighting qualities; whilst the genuine Yankees and Germans (Dutch) are not much esteemed. I have been agreeably disappointed in the climate of Tennessee, which appears quite temperate to what I had expected. Fremantle, Three Years, pp June 3, Federal instructions relative to guarding the Charleston to Memphis railroad from Collierville to Pocahontas, Tennessee MEMPHIS, TENN., June 3, Maj. Gen. RICHARD J. OGLESBY, Jackson, Tenn.: GEN.: It is of very great importance that your troops should be moved rapidly upon the new line. Pocahontas, LaGrange, Moscow, and Collierville are the prominent points to be held by garrison; the lesser stations will be outposts from these. You can patrol the road from LaGrange to Jackson with your battery car so as to keep up the telegraph. A wire will be placed from here to Corinth on the main road. Gen. Smith will leave at LaGrange equipments and mules for mounting two regiments of infantry. The whole cavalry force will be left as now stationed, at LaGrange, Collierville, and Germantown. You will bring the Third Michigan, and locate them at Pocahontas. I should think you will require artillery at the points named, and, if you choose, I will send one regiment of infantry to Germantown. The negro regiments will be armed and put on duty. Smith will leave his, now 60 strong. The cavalry must be kept moving far in front, so as to cover our line by distant patrols. Send everything to Corinth and LaGrange that needs transferring by railroad, and march all troops that are not too distant to the new line. Get a force down, and relieve Smith at the earliest practicable moment. Use all the railroad stock you want and can use. Grant is pressing, and must be supplied. Your obedient servant, S. A. HURLBUT. Page 12 June 1863 TENNESSEE HISTORICAL COMMISSION

13 June 3, 1863 MEMPHIS, TENN., June 3, Maj. Gen. RICHARD J. OGLESBY, Jackson, Tenn: You will as speedily as possible throw your force over to the Charleston and Memphis Railroad, relieving Gen. Smith, and occupying the entire line from Corinth to Germantown. The cavalry at LaGrange, Germantown, and Collierville will remain. This movement will be executed with the greatest promptness, as it is vitally important that Smith's division go below at once. S. A. HURLBUT. CORINTH, MISS., June 3, Col. MERSY: You will proceed, with your brigade, to Pocahontas, and then distribute your troops from the east, so as to protect the brigades on the Memphis and Charleston Railroad to Grand Junction. It will be best to keep your mounted force together at Pocahontas, as within 2 miles of it are the most important bridges on the railroad, which, when finished, you will also have to guard. Two of them are in sight of the town. They are the Tuscumbia, Hatchie, and Muddy. Whenever you post detachments, you will immediately have them intrench themselves, by earthworks or stockades, in commanding positions, and so that they will cover the works they are to defend. You will also have to scout and closely watch the country south of you, and be very vigilant in watching the approach of any enemy. You will employ two or three reliable scouts and closely watch the country south of you, and be very vigilant in watching the approach of any enemy. You will employ two or three reliable scouts or detail men for that purpose. As soon as the railroad is running it must be patrolled at least once in night and day, and strict orders must be given to all officers commanding detachments in relation to holding their men in camp, and not letting them straggle out. The engineer regiment is now encamped and intrenched at Pocahontas, building the bridge, and the commanding officer of it can give you much valuable information in relation to the road, bridges, &c. The road from here to Tuscumbia River will be protected by troops at Chewalla at present. The guard at Tuscumbia and Hatchie are sufficient. You will make your headquarters at Pocahontas. By order of Brig. Gen. G. M. Dodge June 3, Confederate scout repulsed in Readyville environs OR, Ser. I, Vol. 31, pt. III, pp HDQRS. BRECKINRIDGE'S REGT., June 5, a. m. Maj. E. S. BURFORD, Assistant Adjutant-Gen.: TENNESSEE CIVIL WAR SOURCEBOOK June 1863 Page 13

14 June 3, 1863 SIR: Col. [W. C. P. ] Breckinridge directs me to say he has just received your dispatch, with a copy of dispatch from Gen. Bragg, and will say in reply that a heavy scout sent out by him to drive the enemy's pickets in was, on day before yesterday (3d instant), driven back from Readyville by a force of the enemy's cavalry. This was just at dusk, on the 3d instant (Wednesday). A scout has just returned from the neighborhood of Readyville and reports the enemy still there, but that Gen. Wilder's brigade was moved on yesterday (Thursday) morning to Triune. Furthermore, that the enemy have not left Readyville at any time since this regiment has been on duty here in the front, unless they were driven from there on Wednesday about 1 p. m.; and, if such be the case, they certainly returned and occupied the place by 4 o'clock the same day, for the scout spoken of above drove his pickets immediately into their camp, and was then fired upon by the sentinels around camp, and chased by 150 cavalry from that point through Woodbury, 7 miles. The colonel directs me to say he will send a heavy scout out immediately, and advise you immediately upon the receipt of word from it. I am, major, respectfully, your obedient servant, JOS. M. JONES, Adjutant. OR, Ser. I, Vol. 23, pt. II, p June 3, Guard duty and dogs in Memphis: excerpts from Corporal George Hovey Cadman's letter home My Dear Wife, I once more take my seat to write to you hoping these few lines will find you quite well. I am happy to inform you that my health is very good, never better, except that I am getting too fleshy... One of our boys in Co. F after coming off guard yesterday morning, got a pass from the Colonel to go to town, and drinking too much, got in a fuss with the provost guard, he was being taken to the Guard house, when he broke from the Guard, and ran off. He would not Halt, when ordered, and the Guard Fired. The ball passed through his left shoulder and out at his left breast, killing him almost instantly, as well as wounding a man in front of him... It is a most foolish thing to trifle with guards in the army, Only on Sunday night I was with one second of cutting a Niggers Wind. I had Halted him twice and was in the very act of springing the trigger when the fool stopped, one more second and it would have been too late... We have plenty of guarding, it takes us half our time. Our Regiment guards about half a mile containing two of the Main Roads and several blind paths. We have a reserve on each road, and a chain of posts, at every two or three Hundred yards. A rat could not get through without being seen day or night. The Citizens do not like us at all. Last Friday a memorial was presented to Genl Hurlburt signed by 500 citizens, praying for our removal, not on account of bad behaviour, but because we were too strict in the performance of our duty. They did not make much by it for the General told them, we were the sort Page 14 June 1863 TENNESSEE HISTORICAL COMMISSION

15 June 3, 1863 of men he had been looking for for some time, and he was glad that he had men who knew how to do their duty. We recd marching orders for Vicksburg on Saturday, but from this or some other cause the Order was Countermanded. There is very little real Union feeling in Memphis nothing but the Bayonet in my opinion keeps it loyal. No person can go out through our lines without a pass and before they can obtain one, they have to take the oath of allegiance, if they refuse to take it they are put beyond our lines with orders never to return. Every day some pass through on their way South... It would amuse you to see the manner of people we have to deal with on the Roads, some, afraid almost to speak to us, others turn up their noses, as if they very air the Yankees Breathed was poisonous. Some of the Ladies, when asked to stand up in their Buggies, or get out, that we may see if the have any thing underneath the seat, fling themselves round as if the Devil was after them. There is plenty of fun on such occasions, after they are gone mimicking their airs. One Woman was so Drunk and Abusive the other day, the Officer of the Guard had to tie her to a tree till she got sober. God forbid, my Dear, that ever you should live in a country subject to Military rule. However kindly the rules issued by the authorities are carried out, there must of necessity be great hardships to bear. On Monday night I was acting as sergeant on picket, when I was ordered to take two Men, and search a house near for a man who had broke from the Guard house of the 5th O. V. C. It was after midnight and we had to search every room in the house, no odds who occupied them. I saw Phil Trounstine on Monday, at the 5th Ohio Camp. Coming back from there I saw a squad of the 5th searching the houses for whisky. Nearly every house keeps whisky for sale, although it is illegal and such stuff I never tasted in my life. It makes those who drink it perfectly crazy. Our Boys are cooling down considerable, and behave pretty well now. We only had two men sent to the Guardhouse last Sunday, and three fights (that is in our Company)... When I woke this morning I looked like a Drowned dog. This is the greatest place for dogs that ever I saw. Every White man has two dogs and a slut, and every nigger double the number. At night when they commence barking, sleep is impossible. The noise they make joined to the noise of the Mocking Birds and Whip-po-wills, the Braying of Mules and Croaking of Frogs, cannot be described. When we are out on picket at night the row is sometimes horrible. But you must excuse me leaving off now as I have to go and cook supper and Clean up ready for Guard in the morning... Your affectionate Husband G. H. Cadman Co B, 39th O. V. I., Memphis, Tenn. Please send me some stamps. George Hovey Cadman Correspondence TENNESSEE CIVIL WAR SOURCEBOOK June 1863 Page 15

16 June 3, 1863 June 3, June 5, Confederate scout activity in Readyville environs HDQRS. BRECKINRIDGE'S REGT., June 5, a. m. Maj. E. S. BURFORD, Assistant Adjutant-Gen.: SIR: Col. [W. C. P. ] Breckinridge directs me to say he has just received your dispatch, with a copy of dispatch from Gen. Bragg, and will say in reply that a heavy scout sent out by him to drive the enemy's pickets in was, on day before yesterday (3d instant), driven back from Readyville by a force of the enemy's cavalry. This was just at dusk, on the 3d instant (Wednesday). A scout has just returned from the neighborhood of Readyville and reports the enemy still there, but that Gen. Wilder's brigade was moved on yesterday (Thursday, June 4) morning to Triune. Furthermore, that the enemy have not left Readyville at any time since this regiment has been on duty here in the front, unless they were driven from there on Wednesday about 1 p. m.; and, if such be the case, they certainly returned and occupied the place by 4 o'clock the same day, for the scout spoken of above drove his pickets immediately into their camp, and was then fired upon by the sentinels around camp, and chased by 150 cavalry from that point through Woodbury, 7 miles. The colonel directs me to say he will send a heavy scout out immediately, and advise you immediately upon the receipt of word from it. I am, major, respectfully, your obedient servant, JOS. M. JONES, Adjutant. HDQRS. BRECKINRIDGE'S REGT., June 5, Maj. E. S. BURFORD, Assistant Adjutant-Gen., McMinnville: I am directed by Col. Breckinridge to inform you the scout sent out on this morning at 2.15 a. m. has returned. The enemy's pickets were driven in. The information gained is that the force at Readyville is the same that has been stationed there during the whole spring and part of last winter, one brigade, commanded by Gen. Hazen, consisting of four regiments of infantry and one battalion of cavalry, numbering in all about 1,600 men. I am, major, very respectfully, your obedient servant, JOS. M. JONES, Adjutant. OR, Ser. I, Vol. 23, pt. II, pp June 3, June 25, Efforts by Provost Marshal for the Army of Tennessee to publish misleading information in the Chattanooga Daily Rebel Tullahoma, Tenn., June 3, 1863, Francis M. Paul Editor Daily Rebel Chattanooga, Tenn.: Please publish an article conveying this idea in your first issue: "We are at a loss to comprehend why General Johnston should have sent Breckinridge's Page 16 June 1863 TENNESSEE HISTORICAL COMMISSION

17 June 4, 1863 corps back to Middle Tennessee. He must be in a secure condition, either from his position or from an abundance of troops. OR, Ser. I, Vol. 23, pt. II, p SHELBYVILLE, TENN., June 24, FRANCIS M. PAUL, Editor Rebel, Chattanooga, Tenn.: Publish an article to this effect: "We are happy to see that re-enforcements continue to arrive for Bragg's army. Our trains to-day are loaded with troops," &c. Don't mention the names of the commanders. ALEX. McKINSTRY, Col. and Provost-Marshal-Gen. SHELBYVILLE, TENN., June 25, FRANCIS M. PAUL, Esq., Chattanooga, Tenn.: DEAR SIR: I telegraphed to you last evening, requesting you to publish an article to the effect that we were receiving re-enforcements, &c. You will have seen by the Northern press the dilemma they have been in concerning Breckinridge, on account of your notice of his return, and you will see by this, too, how much the press can assist us, and how much they look to it for information. They now (he knowing ones) know that he is with Johnston. To save your credit with them, let me ask you to put in something to the effect that Gen. Johnston recalled him, or could not spare him-whatever may suggest itself to you-to account for his being there now. They get all of our papers. Yours being the nearest, and, of course, the latest, appears to be looked upon by them as the best information. I am frequently in the receipt of Northern papers, and will take great pleasure in sending them to you. Yours, truly, ALEX. McKINSTRY, Col., &c. OR, Ser. I, Vol. 23, pt. II, p June 4, Federal scout, Carthage environs to Trousdale Ferry on the Caney Fork River CARTHAGE, TENN., June 4, [1863] Brig. Gen. JAMES A. GARFIELD, Chief of Staff, Army of the Cumberland, Murfreesborough, Tenn.: A scouting party, composed of the Thirty-sixth Ohio Regt., sent to Trousdale Ferry, on Caney Fork, succeeded in capturing 16 prisoners and 32 horses of Smith's command. We are now crossing the river. Have been ferrying all day yesterday and all last night. Will be at Liberty to-morrow. Respectfully, TENNESSEE CIVIL WAR SOURCEBOOK June 1863 Page 17

18 June 4, 1863 GEORGE CROOK, Brig.-Gen. OR, Ser. I, Vol. 23, pt. II, p June 4, Skirmish at Snow Hill, near Liberty JUNE 4, Skirmish at Snow Hill, Tenn. Report of Col. J. R. Butler, Third Kentucky Cavalry (Confederate). HDQRS. HARRISON'S CAVALRY BRIGADE, Smithville, June 5, GEN.: Your dispatch of yesterday is at hand, written, I presume, before mine advising of the attack made on me at Liberty at 4 p. m. yesterday was received, as no mention is made of its receipt. The enemy have made no further demonstration since the attack yesterday; but finding them in heavy force, with artillery, and trying to flank my position, I deemed it advisable to fall back to this place last night, and await orders. My scout, 130 strong, under Capt. [R. W. ] Hooks, attacked the enemy at Black's Shop yesterday at daylight, and drove their pickets into their breastworks at that place, and found two infantry brigades in line to receive them. They also had artillery. After a brisk skirmish my scout retired. We found no pickets at Bone's Ford. The pickets whom I feared were captured yesterday have come in; also my forage and commissary details, with the exception of about 55 men. Four wagons are also still out, two of which, I regret to say, were captured at Alexandria. The enemy advanced upon Liberty and Alexandria simultaneously yesterday, coming on the Murfreesborough and Auburn pike. My scout on that road had returned to camp but a short time before the attack was made. Another small scout saw the enemy as they passed a few miles from the forks of the pike, and reports them in heavy force, marching by fours at a rapid trot. They were mostly mounted infantry, and had a large wagon train loaded; also twelve pieces of artillery in the rear. My scouts report the enemy having no pickets this side of Stone's River, and learned from citizens that they had drawn their pickets much closer in toward Murfreesborough. I have sent out three scouts this morning toward Liberty and Alexandria, to ascertain the movements of the enemy. Very respectfully, general, your obedient servant, J. R. BUTLER, Col., Cmdg. Harrison's Cavalry Brigade. Maj.-Gen. WHEELER, Cmdg. Army Corps, McMinnville. June 4, Skirmish at Stones River Ford OR, Ser. I, Vol. 23, pt. I, p Dyer's Battle Index for Tennessee. Page 18 June 1863 TENNESSEE HISTORICAL COMMISSION

19 June 4, 1863 June 4, Engagement (artillery) at Franklin; Forrest repulsed Report NOTE 1 of Col. John P. Baird, Eighty-fifth Indiana Infantry. FRANKLIN, June 6, (Received 6 p. m.) GEN.: Dispatch just received. The attack commenced at 3 p. m., 4th. From information derived from prisoners, I think Forrest's whole force advancedthree brigades and two regiments. Forrest was with them. They sent Armstrong's brigade to my left and Starnes' to the right, working toward Brentwood. I know Forrest was personally in command, and we took prisoners from all the regiments in Armstrong's brigade. Below you will find a full report of amount of ammunition expended and on hand. They would not come in range of howitzers, but drove in my pickets and little force of cavalry; had two batteries; only opened with one, but soon got range, and I had to fire on them to force them to change position; also to support my pickets. I did not fire on Thursday at a range more than average of a mile; they came to town and I shelled them out. Col. Campbell came in on my left with a brigade of cavalry, sent from Triune by Gen. Granger, and drove Armstrong back, taking 10 prisoners. Friday morning, Col. Van Derveer arrived with brigade of infantry and battery from Triune, and assumed command of forces here at noon. Early in the morning yesterday quite a large force appeared on Columbia pike, and I fired a few shots to dislodge them; they finally fell back. Our loss is remarkably small, but am sorry to report Col. Faulkner, Seventh Kentucky Cavalry, was wounded mortally. Col. Van Derveer left at noon to-day, taking with him all the force Gen. Granger sent here, although Granger ordered him to send the cavalry. I am satisfied they will attack within twenty-four hours, as they are hovering around. They evidently expected to take the place, and made it hot fort two or three hours; and, but for the timely aid from Granger, would have renewed the attack in force yesterday. It is impossible to prevent them from ascertaining our movements, with the force I have to picket the various roads, and I would like permission to burn up the town, so I can see the front. Reports of our loss were made while Col. Van Derveer was in command, but it will not exceed 10 killed and wounded. We took 28 prisoners, and the enemy must have lost fully as many more killed and wounded. If attacked, I will fight as long as we can fire a shot. Report of ammunition.-number of rounds on hand: 30-pounder Parrott, 132 rounds shell; 24-pounder rifled gun, 149 rounds shell; 24-pounder rifled gun, 140 rounds solid shot; 24-pounder rifled gun, 60 rounds canister; 8-inch howitzer, 298 rounds spherical case shell; 8-inch howitzer, 220 fixed shall, and 8- inch howitzer, 70 rounds canister. Number expended: 30-pounder Parrott, 58 rounds shell; 24-pounder rifled 51 rounds shell. There was no light ammunition used except in picket firing. I sent through report of ammunition early this morning to Granger, by signal. A mistake occurred on spherical case shell-592 reported, and we only have 298. Signal Corps has been very efficient. Respectfully, TENNESSEE CIVIL WAR SOURCEBOOK June 1863 Page 19