Edwin R Havens. Grand Rapids Co. ‘A' 7th Mich Cavalry Kent County Lee Barracks Jan 28th Michigan “1863” Edwin R. Havens Capt. Walkers Company 7th Michigan Cavalry.. Camp Kellogg Grand Rapids G At Home Saturday Oct 18, 1862.. It has been a long time since I wrote in my last journal.. If I remember rightly it was about the last of June.. Since that time changes of some importance have taken place in my prospects for some time to come.. On the 30th day of June last I entered the store of [Dc?] Armond and Fulton as a clerk at 7 dollars per month.. I liked the business very well. but found it rather confining to be obliged to stay in the store day and night from Monday morning to Sat urday night with but little cessation from toil.. I remained with them until the 12th day of September. when I enlisted as a soldier in Capt Walkers company, then forming at Niles and Battle Creek for the seventh Mich Cavalry.. I enlisted on the occasion of a war meeting which was addressed by E.L. Fitch of Berrien Town ship and Esq.. Taylor of Niles City.. While J. Sparks. A. Park and W. Sparks were riding home on horseback. they commenced racing their horses. when after running some ways they overtook M. Price in a buggy, and John in at tempting to pass him, did not draw his horse 2 sufficiently to one side, but struck one of his legs against one of the wheels breaking his leg between knee the foot and ^ very badly.. His horse by jumping to threw one side burst the saddle girth and throwing him to the ground.. He was carried to Mrs Bunkers. and Dr [Posten?] called to dress the limb.. His Father and Mother were sent for and reached there about one oclock.. The Dr Soon after dressed his leg and he was then put upon a bed in a wagon and taken home.. The next morning Dr Andrews of Niles was sent for, and he soon set the limb, which would hav probably have done well, had it not, by some accident, been put out of place and requiring about three weeks afterwards, ed to be reset. Since that time he has slowly improv^.. On the 22nd of September at 11 oclock P.M. we left Niles for Grand Rapids, to commence our life as soldiers.. We reached Kalamazoo, between 1 and 2 oclock that night. and staid there the remainder of the night.. Some of the boys slept in their blankets on the floor, others in chairs, and every position they could find.. but George Lee found a room at an- other hotel.. and invited me to share it with him.. So that I had a bed, although I doubt not, that many of those who slept upon the floor had a softer bed than I did.. 3 We left Kalamazoo by stage for Grand Rapids between 7 and 8 oclock A.. M.. .. Thirty three passengers with their baggage made two good sized coach. loads. The morning was clear and warm. the country quite a pleasant. one and being new to us, we found enough to enjoy ourselves first rate. After noon there commenced a change in both weather and country.. The wind blew up cool. and a few dark clouds, which had hung just above the western horizon, for some two hours began to move up and were closely followed by others, darker and more threatening. The country was more rolling. and of a poorer quality. The houses and settlements smaller and farther apart.. About 5 oclock P.. M. it commenced a slight drizzling rain, and the last seven miles of our journey were passed in a moody silence.. Those on the out side of the coaches wrapping themselves up in blankets and everything they could obtain.. We had the good fortune however not to get very wet. and reached Grand Rapids a little after [6?] P.M. cold, tired and hungry.. 4 As soon as possible we procured supper, intending to go to the camp. which they told us was situated about one and a half miles from where we then were.. As it continued to rain after we had eaten our sup per, we finally prevailed upon our officers to allow us to stay there until morning, and very soon after ward spread our blankets upon the floor of the room which our landlord had given us, to occupy for the night, and I slept very soundly, for me.. Next morning we were all up by daylight: but it was after Seven oclock before we got our men all together, and started for Camp Kellogg. Although each man had quite a load of baggage to carry, we I found the distance much less than had been repre sented, and reached camp as the companies were finishing their breakfast. As our company had no cooking utensils they were obliged to borrow those of another, after they had finished their breakfast.. We did not consequently obtain our breakfast till after nine oclock, and as we were very hungry we were glad to eat, what many of us [illegible in original] would have refused at home Some of our company from Battle Creek who had reached here they day before we did had not eaten anything since 2 oclock P.M. Tuesday. 5 At dinner we had some dishes given us consis ting of plates. cups. knives and forks, which had been used before by some company. and thrown away.. They were all covered with a good coat of rust. there was no help for plates and cups. But each one secured a knife and fork. and seating themselves upon the ground pro ceeded to scour them in the dirt, and it was not long before they were quite passable.. We had in the mean time secured good comfortable quarters in barracks. which seemed more desirable than the tents which some of the com- panies occupied.. Being all new recruits it took two or three days to become acquainted with the ways of the camp and the duties devolving upon us.. Our 1st Lieut left us a day or two afterwards we got there, and E L. Fitch our who was ^ conductor there. left for home at the same time. leaving us with only Capt Walker as the only officer with us.. He appointed C.M. Holton to act as Orderly Sergeant. and E.D. Crocker as Commissary Sergeant.. As our Capt was unlearned in the drill he was obliged to drill with the officers four hours each day, and there being no well very good drilled man in our ranks, we did not drill any for nearly a week.. Two or three days after we got there it was found necessary to build some more barracks, and men from each company were wanted to work upon them.. 6 As all of the men in our company volunteered to work upon them, the Captain concluded to detail some, and accordingly appointed six of. those who made the most pretensions to e being carpenters.. the new barracks were finish^d and we moved into them on Monday afternoon Sept 29.. We found them warmer and more comfortable than those we had just left.. As three or four of the boys in our squad had worked on them, they had taken pains to secure the most comfortable bunk in the quarters assigned to our company.. and we found ourselves very comfortably situated.. We now found ourselves obliged to drill from 9. to 11 oclock A.M. and from two to four P.M. and to go on dress parade at 5. P.M… It did not take us long to drill very well and we soon recovered from our embarrassment which we felt upon going on parade the first time.. Soon after going into our new quarters, a contract was let to a [illegible in original] citizen of Grand Rapids to furnish the rations for the seventh regt at 21cts per day for each man.. We were now obliged to go out of camp about ¼ of a mile to our meals.. Many had complained bitterly of their fare while we cooked as a company by ourselves.. and al though we fared much better they grumbled still worse.. and as we became more comfortably situated and our victuals became better every day, they grumbled the more.. 7 After we had been in camp about a week rumors began to circulate among us that E.L. Fitch, whom we expected to have as our 2nd Lieutenant could not get the situation and consequently would not go with us. This of course created a good deal of discontent among the men whom he had enlisted. Some declared that they would never muster in unless he went as our Lieut. Our Capt told us that there was some hopes of bringing it around, although it was also somewhat doubtful. Other reports that we would be placed in some old regiment also caused a great deal of discontent. and more threats of a like nature.. The delay in getting the companies mustered. together with the severe restrictions imposed upon the men by Col Grey caused more threats and discontent. and for nearly two weeks the camp was in a perfect uproar.. the discontent finally became so great that it created almost a mutiny.. One evening about 300. men and two or three officers belonging in the 6th Regt assembled near our quarters. and of course were soon joined by a number from our company and others in the 7th. Speeches were made. resolutions passed and a dertimination determination to leave the camp in a body on the following Saturday 8 morning unless they should be mustered.. The Col. and other officers being sent for reached the ground as soon as possible and dispersed the crowd.. But it was plain to be seen that it had produced an effect upon the Col.. He next day appointed Capt Thos. H. Botham to act as Col.. of the 7th Regt and telegraphed to Detroit for the mustering officer.. Lieut Col. Smith reached there on the succeeding Friday and proceeded to muster the companies of the 6th as speedily as possible.. Capt Walker who had been trying very hard to get our company mustered at the same time with the 6th at last received a promise from Col.. Kellogg and Col Smith that we shuld be mustered.. But on Saturday.. [illegible in original] Botham, [illegible in original] and Darling prevailed upon them to post pone the mustering of our company until Wednesday Oct 22nds Capt Walker learning this waited upon Col Kellogg and plainly told him that unless we were mustered at that time. he should dis- charge his men and that they might go home. This brought them to terms. and we were accord ingly mustered on Monday Oct.. 13th.. Most of the men now wanted to go home.. but as they had not received any money since they had been there and most of them were destitute of money sufficient to get home with. they did not know what to do.. It was soon found that the men of the 6th Regt were selling their certificates of bounty at 23 to 23 ½ dollars for 25. We then began to look around for a chance to dispose of ours.. But it was hard to find any one who felt disposed [mark illegible in original] to purchase ours.. Newton Sparks. Allen Park and Wm Graham. had got furloughs as soon as possible after being mustered and finally succeeded, about 10 oclock at night in disposing of their bounties for 23 dollars. each. and left Grand Rapids about 4 oclock A.M. Tuesday.. As soon as possible after breakfast. I got passed out to go down town and finally disposed of mine at the same place and rate. I then got a furlough.. and got our things in a shape which I thought would be safe to leave them in.. and took the stage at 3. A.M. Wednesday Oct 15. and reached Kalamazoo about 1. P.M. and Buchanan about 5 P.M.. and home about 7 P..M.. Most of the men now wanted to go home.. but as they had not received any money since they had been there and most of them were destitute of money sufficient to get home with. they did not know what to do.. It was soon found that the men of the 6th Regt were selling their certificates of bounty at 23 to 23 ½ dollars for 25. We then began to look around for a chance to dispose of ours.. But it was hard to find any one who felt disposed [mark illegible in original] to purchase ours.. Newton Sparks. Allen Park and Wm Graham. had got furloughs as soon as possible after being mustered and finally succeeded, about 10 oclock at night in disposing of their bounties for 23 dollars. each. and left Grand Rapids about 4 oclock A.M. Tuesday.. As soon as possible after breakfast. I got passed out to go down town and finally disposed of mine at the same place and rate. I then got a furlough.. and got our things in a shape which I thought would be safe to leave them in.. and took the stage at 3. A.M. Wednesday Oct 15. and reached Kalamazoo about 1. P.M. and Buchanan about 5 P.M.. and home about 7 P..M.. 11 Camp. Kellogg.. Oct 28, 1862 Returned here last night after an absence of nearly two weeks.. We spent the time allowed us by our furloughs very well. the weather while we were at home was. most of the time good.. We visited with all of the friends. rode around, and did everything we could to make every it pleasant to the folks and ourselves.. We had one of the best of parties at Mr Alexanders on Wednesday evening at Mrs. Snyders last.. and another on Friday evening last. ^ On Friday Evening however it snowed very hard and was a most disagreeable nights yet there was quite a large assembly.. We left Niles on Sunday evening last and spent a very pleasant time there that evening while waiting for the cars as many of our friends were there to see us off.. We reached Kalamazoo about 2 oclock A.M. and staid until 7½ A..M.. 12 We had as usual a large stage load of passengers and baggage. nearly all being. soldiery.. The day was clear and pleasant but quite cool., there was considerable frost Sunday night and it did not get entirely off in some places till nearly noon.. We reached Grand Rapids about 5 Oclock P.M. and came to camp immediately after.. there has been considerable improvement made in camp since we went away. We now have stoves in our barracks. and as they kept a very large fire it was too warm to be very comfortable.. We also found our clothing ready for us. and to day we have. drawn jackets, pants, shirts and blankets., A great quantity of other clothing is also ready. but has not been distributed.. We have drilled in battalion today and being entirely new to me it was rather perplexing.. The 6th is making preparations for receiving their horses. a part of which we expected this week.. 13 Camp. Kellogg. Wednesday Oct 29 /62 We have had a very pleasant day. clear and quite warm for the time of year.. There has been indications of a storm this afternoon.. More clothing has been com ing since yesterday. But we have not yet drawn any more.. But some few of them drew their boots.. Boxes containing socks, blouses, and overcoats are now in the quarter masters department [mark illegible in original] and will be distributed in a few days. We have drilled in squad and battallion drills to day.. We were practiced on the principle of obliquing in squads this forenoon. this afternoon in wheeling in platoons and squad rons. and also in changing directions [mark illegible in original] by both right and left flanks. and in deploying on the different squadrons.. Our fare is very good. and is generally ready in good time.. Men are at work today, building quartermasters buildings and I think that we may soon get to cooking our meals by companies again. 14 Camp Kellogg. Thursday Oct. 30 /62 The day has been quite pleasant and warm.. We drilled this forenoon in squad rows. and this afternoon in battalion. Our drill was wheeling and also a new movement of line to the rear.. Capt Botham put us through over two hours and we felt pretty tired when we got through. Capt Walker returned this even ing and also Wm OBrien and Chas [illegible in original].. Capt Walker brought the report that Gov Blair would pay our expenses home to attend election. At This may be true. still it may not do me any good.. Col Mann has not yet come. neither has the paymaster.. although these are pay days.. 15 Niles Monday. November 3d 1862. I will now endeavor to finish up my Journal since Thursday last.. Friday was a very warm and pleasant day.. We went through our usual routine of drill both forenoon and afternoon.. that evening we drew our overcoats and socks… and we are now able to present a quite different appearance while at home than we did when at home before.. Friday evening A.C. Parks. W.G. Graham and N. Sparks. took it into their heads for some reason or other to go home and obtained furloughs, leaving Reynolds and myself. alone in charge of our bunk and its contents. I had obtained a pass from the Capt and for Reynolds and myself to go to the city and get our suits which we were having trimmed.. About 7 oclock a fire broke out in the Fountain St Brewery and as soon as discovered a general stampede and breaking guard took place in camp. and the authorities sent out a patrol guard with orders to arrest all soldiers found in the city with out furloughs or passes.. It was my fortune to be arrested and on producing my pass the Lieut in charge pronounced it “no good” and informed me that I must go back to camp and thinking that it was the best 16 that I could do. I fell into the ranks and marched back to camp.. thinking that I stood a very good chance of lodging in the guard house that night.. but the sergeant in command of the squad although a stranger. not thinking I had done anything deserving that disgrace told me that as soon as I got inside the line of of sentries. to go to my quarters which permission thanks I was not loth to take advantage of. with sincere ^.. to him for his kindness.. Saturday morning after detailing three men for guard, besides the cooks. and one or two others for special duties. it was found that we had eight men for drill.. these few men were drilled an hour by Q. Serg.. Chas O. Pratt.. med After returning to our quarters we were infor^ by Capt Walker that we could have furloughs if we desired them. and Reynolds and myself. together with nine others from our company 11 left Camp Kellogg about ^ oclock A.M. for home. It was too late in the day for us to obtain passage by stage, so after joining company with two others. from another company we concluded to hire a conveyance if possible to carry us half way. But there was none to be obtained in the city and we finally concluded to set out on foot.. After going about half a mile we met a man with a team and woodrack. and on bantering him. he told us that if we would obtain the consent of the owner of the team he would take us to the Half.way House. that after noon.. the owner was soon found and he gave his con sent to taking us that distance for .75cts pr. head.. Thinking that quite reasonable we agreed to pay it and soon seated ourselves “spoon fashion” on a board running lengthwise through a low wagon box.. Reaching the tavern at Chambers Corners we found three others of our company who had just eaten their supper and who now joined us.. We reached the Halfway House about half past. 7. oclock and finding that we could not obtain a team there to take us to Kalamazoo Walters we ordered our supper. while Richardson and Mealoy who had eaten, went on the next 6 miles. to hire a team if possible to take us to Kalamazoo in time for the 2 oclock train going west.. After eating our supper we left the Halfway House about half past eight oclock.. and walked the next 6 miles in about 2 hours and found two good teams waiting to take us through 18 We paid the 60cts asked for the accommodations and were whirled to Kalamazoo half an hour before train time.. But what was our surprise to see the three who had left camp the evening before, seated in the depot house. also waiting for the train they had walked nearly the whole distance from Grand Rapids.. travelling all the previous night and looking rather the worse for wear.. We reached home about 7 oclock on Sunday morning surprising our. folks greatly by our sudden and unexpected appearance.. Having been up all the night previous I con sequently sought a bed after I had procured my break fast, and slept nearly all day.. the day was an un pleasant one, being stormy and cold.. It cleared up during the night and is quite pleasant again this morning.. While coming through. Buchanan I noticed the effects of a very severe fire. which had taken place during the past week.. and on making in quiries at home I learned that about half past two P.M. Friday a fire had. broken out in the building formerly used by Roe as a company machine shop. caused by sparks from the smoke stack of E.M. Roe's steam works. 19 It destroyed that building and then caught in the store of Ross. Bainton & Co.. in which they saved most of the goods.. It then caught the grocery of Redden & Mead. they saving a part of their stock.. It next caught and destroyed the dwelling and millinery shop of Mrs Dutton and the blacksmith shop of J. Kelley.. Crossing the street it soon destroyed the brick building of Ross. Alexander and Co.. occupied by De. Armond and Fulton. with the Masonic Hall in the third story.. Then the Saloon of S. Bishop. the small wooden building not occupied belong ing to Ross & Alexander.. the paint shop of Hull and Mead. the blacksmith shop. of P.F. Ingersol.. the livery stable of J. M Russell. burning up all of his cutters and sleighs.. the shoe shop of H.F. Strong. the tailor shop of S.. W Epley. The barber Shop of. Prince of Denmark. the butche shop of J. Lord and Brother.. the old shop formerly occupied by Wm Streets. and the house and barn of D. Carlisle.. destroying about twenty buildings and causing a loss of property amounting to nearly 10,000 dollars in value 20 Camp Kellogg. Sunday November. 9. /62 Here I am. back in our old quarters again. having reached camp about 7 oclock last evening.. foregoing After finishing up the previous pages on Mon day last. I went to Buchanan. with W. Graham and A. Park. and found [De?] Armond and Fulton again in business and occupying the building opposite the Fremont House.. and Ross. Bainbow & Co. occupying the lower story of the Fremont House.. The boys told me that Newt Sparks was sick and on visiting him in the evening I found him down with the lung fever.. He had been taken sick on Sunday after reaching home and was compelled to send for Dr. Roc on Monday.. Chester Calvin en listed on Monday morning.. we Tuesday was election day. and ^ went to Niles to attend the election.. We met Capt Walker who had come through the day and night before.. I also met and visited with several of the young folks.. On Wednesday I went to Niles and Cap Walker and I procured a team, and started out to try our luck recruiting.. It commenced raining just as we left Niles and continued to rain 20 until it increased to considerable of a show in which lasted until about 3 oclock P.. M.. We drove to Buchanan and from there to Berrien where we took dinner.. I reached home about 5. P.M.. failing to get a single recruit.. I visited Newt again in the evening, and found him a great deal better than when I last saw him.. On Thursday. I went out alone to try my luck. but failed again.. I went to Buchanan in the afternoon. to see Ed Batchelor. but could not induce him to enlist.. It commenced to snow about four oclock and next morning the ground was white with snow.. Friday morning I bade our folks. “good bye” as I expect for the last time for a long time to come.. Nell and I went to visit Isom and the family.. We spent the rest of the day there and then went to Dowagiac in the evening, where I took the cars.. I found Capt Walker. together with six or eight of our company about the train. and we all came through to Kalamazoo together.. I found Chester Calvin, and Royal Tuttle, who had also enlisted, with the Capt 22 Captain Walker staid in Kalamazoo on bus iness, while the rest of us came on through.. The day was clear but cold making an out side seat not very desirable.. At Chambers. Corners I found that Tuttle had deserted us at Kala mazoo.. We reached the city about 6 oclock, after a cold and tedious journey.. Reynolds. Park and Graham did not come through. waiting, for some whim or other ‘till yesterday and consequently they will not be here today.. Newt Sparks was so ill that it was necessary to leave him The camp presents about the same appearance it did when we left it a week ago.. They tell me that Col Mann has arrived but I have not yet seen him.. Several hun dred horses are here for the 6th. I have not had time to examine them very closely but they look very well.. It is said that the arms for the 6th have also arrived.. I found three letters awaiting me in camp. One from G.W. Lee.. one from J.R Cowles, and one from Irenus MacGowan 23 Camp Kellogg. Monday. Nov. 10 Last night was quite a cold one and this morning the ground was white with frost.. Today has been very pleasant and not too cool for comfort. We drilled our usual hours of drill under the lead of E.D. Cook. Sergeant. acting Capt during the absence of the superior officers. Col Smith has come to pay off the 6th Regt which will be done tomorrow.. Col Kellogg was on the ground y this afternoon and told some of the men that in all probability the 7th would not be paid until it was full. and had been mustered in.. This will cause a great deal of discon tent and threats of mutiny. as some of the men have got it into their heads that we can not be held in service over two months without being paid. I consider this a very erroneous idea and feel no inclination to attempt to take a furlough of my own.. on the security.. Park. Graham. Reynolds. Howe and Walters came in last night and Pierce, Wilcox and Capt Walker to day 24 The Sixth has received several hundred of their horses, and it is some support sport to see them as they take them to and from water. three times a day.. They are very good ones as a general thing. Many of them are among the first qualities of farm horses.. ed There have been several boxes unload^ at their Quartermasters office today marked Mini Rifles.. and from this I should infer that they would soon be armed and equipped. and perhaps be dispatched to the field.. Captain Rotham has resigned his position and gone home and so far as I know, few if any are sorry.. I despatched Newts sachel to him this evening.. As many of our things keep disappearing occasionally in a very mysterious manner. we have formed a society, composed of such as we feel safe in trusting one of whom will stay in the barracks a half a day at a time to try and discover the depredatory.. 25 Camp Kellogg Thursday Nov 13.. We are not doing any thing at drill today. as we are waiting to receive our pay. Col Smith being here to muster the remaining companies of the 7th and to pay them and also the 6th their bounty money and premium.. He paid the 6th yesterday and day before. and is busy today mustering the 7th Tuesday last was a very stormy day. com mencing to rain about 11 oclock A.M. and continuing nearly all night.. Wednesday was quite clear but also quite cold.. We drilled during the day our usual hours.. Col Mann arrived on the ground yesterday forenoon. and about the same time a brass band from Detroit also came here.. They have been engaged by Col Mann to accompany the regiment. On Tuesday we drew the remainder of our clothing consisting of one blouse, one cap. one shirt, one pair of drawers and to those who desired to draw them one pair of boots.. 26 As there are a good many complaining of the loss of clothing and other things we formed a society of a few who we could [illegible in original] trust. to try and ferret out the thieves. one of the members of the society to be detailed to stay in the barracks half a day at a time to watch them.. Sergeants Holton and Loomis returned to camp Tuesday evening with several others of the company together with five new recruits.. Quartermaster Sergt Chas O Pratt also returned on Tuesday morning.. One of the new recruits brought in by Holton and Loomis was rejected, and returned in home yesterday.. The remain^g ones have not yet been mustered but will before Col Smith leaves the camp.. Alex. Downy returned at the same time with Holton and reported Newt Sparks suffering from a relapse.. Sergt W.H. OBrien was taken ill on Monday and was sent to the hospital from which he returned this morning.. 27 We procured a box this morning and assorted our clothing. boxing up with the intention of sending home such articles as we do not deem absolutely necessary to our comfort. The report was received here last night that an armistice of sixty days had been entered into by the two belligerent parties of this struggle. But which is not very generally credited.. It would be one of the most favorable things that could happen for the south.. as it would give them time to prepare for the struggle which would ensue afterwards. unless they should in the inter val, conclude a peace.. Boxes containing saddles and bridles for the 7th were received on the ground yesterday and more are reported as being at the Rail Road Depot.. No horses have as yet been received.. It is reported that winter quarters are to be erected for us and that we are to remain here till spring.. Alterations are to be made also in our boarding arrangements which it is to be hoped will prove favorable to us. 28 Camp Kellogg. Saturday Nov 15. /62 We received our bounty from Col. Smith yesterday morning, but as I had sold mine soon after being mustered in I did not received anything for it yesterday. Col. Mann told us after being paid that every man who wanted a furlough might have one for ten days.. a great many consequently took advantage of this. and today the 7th regiment is rather slim.. There were not more than sixty men belonging to the en tire regiment at dinner today. This morning the Orderly detail ed five privates and one corporal for guard, but after we came in from drill we were ordered to fall in ranks again, and after treating to the cigars bought as we suppose by Capt Walker.. he detailed sixteen more privates for some reason or other.. unknown to us.. 29 We expressed a box containing night our clothing last ^ to Father and I also sent him a short note contain ing the receipt for the same.. Col Mann started for Detroit some time either last night or this morning leaving Capt Walker in command of the regiment.. some Col Mann told us last night that u we wo^ld have no more dress parade until we had 800 men on the ground.. Springer, Knights and Caines returned this morning bringing three new recruits with them.. We had a dress parade on Thursday under the direction of Col Mann which was altogether a different mat ter from anything we have ever had before 30 Camp Kellogg. Sunday Nov. 16 /62 This Sunday Eve is the second one that I have spent in this camp for more than a month.. Today I have been to church and also attended religious Services on the ground.. Sergeant Cook. Harrison. Richardson Reynolds. Park. Graham and myself. went out about 9. O.clock A.M. and went down the railroad to the depot, and from there to the city where Reynolds and Graham left us and went to the plaster bed about two miles from the city. while the rest of us went to the Baptist Church.. It being Sunday the cooks did not get us but two meals. dinner at two O.clock. After dinner the chaplain of the 6th held services on the ground, and Capt Walker wish ing to have his company make as good an appearance. as any, formed up and marched us to the ground. and afterwards we went on parade with the 6th. I might as well say that the entire 7th regiment went on parade as well as to say 31 that our company went. for the men of the other companies. joined with ours to make up the company. the Second Lieut of Capt Warners company acted as 1st Lieut of the company. He is a young man, not over twen ty years of age. and small for that age.. and many of our men deride him think ing him too young. But he has been in service before and I have a pretty good opinion of him.. It commenced to rain soon aftered parade was dismissed and has rained slightly ever since. It has been much warmer today than for several days before, and this rain is not en tirely unlooked for.. Capt Walker enlisted two men to day.. one for bugler. the other as private.. The prospect for leaving this camp grows surer every day.. It is now reported that Copelands Regt is to leave Detroit on Friday next. and it is thought that we will move from here soon after, either to Detroit or to Kalamazoo. I think to the former if either. But have no choice.. 32 Camp Kellogg. Tuesday Nov. 18. /62. The week has been warmer than usual since Sunday and today has been rather lowsy and the greater part of this afternoon it has mis ted slightly.. Yesterday morning as many of the sixth as had been supplied with horses. came out on drill mounted and drilled during the forenoon. there was much less bad work than I expected to see the first time they were mounted.. In the afternoon our Captain told us that if the company desired. we would go as a company to the theater. So in the evening we went down. The play was entitled the Beacon of Death. but although it was the first time I ever attended such a place I was not very much interested in what I saw there This morning after coming from breakfast the Capt told us that he wanted all to go down to the railroad to unload several car loads of equipments for the regiment. which he thought would take about an hour. 33 It was nearly 9 O.clock when we got there but it was 1. Oclock before we got to work. unloading having been obliged to wait for the train.. The loading consisted of saddles and bridles for the cavalry.. the cannon carriages. caissons. horses equipments for the battery of Artillery.. and one box of cavalry sabres.. The cannon are 3 inch Rifle steel guns. and 12 pounder howitzer cartridges for the guns. and three kegs of powder. Newton Sparks returned to camp this evening reporting every thing all right at home.. 34 22. Camp Kellogg. Saturday Nov The weather since Tuesday has been variable. one or two days warm and a greeable the others cold and uncom fortable.. Our duties too since then have been various. some drilling but the greater part of the time laboring for the Quartermaster. loading and unloading boxes. cutting and piling brush. and other duties Wednesday a part of the company were detailed to help load the horses at the railroad. some of the others to unload them at the camp. and the rest of us drilled Thursday was about the same The cannons and carriages were hauled upon on the drill ground just outside the camp lines and now stand in a line across the field. and if mounted would present a rather saucy appear ance.. Yesterday morning we were in terrupted in drill by the Quarter 35 master to assist him in making a new road but which was finally postponed, but we were set to work piling brush.. and while doing this the Quartermaster and Major de cided to see what our little [bull?] logs looked liked and consequently tooke of the covers of the boxes containing them, but this was intending to mount them. but on farther re flection this was likewise postponed there being no way of keeping them dry if mounted.. A large pole intended to be raised as a flag pole on the ground has been hauled upon the ground but is not yet raised. Received two letters from [O D?] Carlisle during the forenoon part of the week. both of which I have answered. also one from Nell yesterday morning which I also answered.. Chester Calvin returned to camp last night.. although his furlough is not yet out 36 The Capt enlisted a new man yesterday morning who was duly sworn in and uniformed.. and this morning he received a furlough. and went home. Joseph. Springer took a french fur lough a day or two ago.. and this mor ning Orderly Sergt Holton was sent afternoon him and Edward Kill who is said to be at Marshall.. going under the name of Edward Kelley.. We have been living very hard for several days past until this morning it became so bad that we could stand it no longer.. Camp Kellogg. Sunday Nov.. 23. Just after writing the above, yesterday I heard Sergt Cook crying “twelve men wanted to go to the railroad to unload cars” and feeling as though a little exercise would do me good I closed my book and went with him.. We found four trucks. loaded with carriages. caissons. and other parapher 37 nalia belonging to the battery. which was unloaded.. Now I will commence where I left off. yesterday. After we ate all we could get yesterday morning we came back to camp and entered a complaint before Capt Walker against those who furnished us food. and after listen ing to our complaint. he promised to see what could be done to better our condition.. and accordingly took such steps as he considered the most efficient to bring about this result.. Of course it would take some time to make any change that could be seen.. but our dinner was some better than we had for some days previous.. After we got through work at the Depot we went to the table to get our sup per but found nothing but bread. butter and cold water which we could get.. and thinking that we deserved some thing better we refused to accept it. and consequently went to camp and 38 complained again to the Capt. who sent us to the Sutlers where we got a good supper which we did as good justice to as hungry men knew how to.. To day Col. Algiers gave orders that no one should be allowed to leave camp during the day either in squads or on passes. so we are compel led to remain in camp all day.. A few minutes ago. Ogden Patten from Buchanan came into camp and staid awhile.. He did not bring much news that we had not already heard He intends staying in the city some time if he can get a situation.. [Pitts?] Walling returned to camp last evening after an absence of several weeks. He having been sick during his absence. He reports Marion Nicols very nearly dead when he left him Friday evening.. suffering from inflammation of the lungs.. 39 Camp. Kellogg. Monday Nov. 24. /62 It has been clear and pleasant though cool this forenoon. and bids fair to continue the same this afternoon.. Yesterday afternoon Chaplain Greeley held religious services on the ground. But as it was very cold and I did not feel very well I did not attende them.. Capt Walker being officer of the day yesterday, he was obliged to call out a patrol guard, and consequently gave his men the first chance asking them ed to volunteer.. He had no sooner express^ his wish to have us go than he was be set by all to allow each to go.. He chose twenty of those whom he con sidered as the most reliable ones. and we left camp about 8. oclock.. and soon after divided into three squads commanded by corporals. Crook. Reynolds and Wilcox.. We searched the town pretty thor oughly capturing but one man. We then joined forces again and marched about 1½ miles to “Tommys” a noted place [End Scan 40] 40. where we found 18 or twenty men who had run the guard and whom. e we march^d back to camp on the way meeting a squad under command of several of the captains the two majors and others. in fact composed mostly of commissioned officers.. The prisoners grumbled and swore a good deal and threatened an outbreak if it were attempted to place them in the guard house: but when they got there they all went in with very few words.. After keeping them there a while their officers had them all taken to the city jail where they still remain. This morning Sergt E D. Cooke. took. command of the company and took us from breakfast to the rail road depot. when after waiting there till after noon ten Oclock. we rode up to the flats on a train loaded with lumber which we unloaded there for our new barracks.. 41 Today there are two teams en gaged hauling the army and accoutre ments to camp for us: They, so far, consist of Enfield Rifles, Sabres. cartridge boxes and belts. New arrangements are also being made for our cooking which is to be done by our companies respectively Gen. P. Peck has been appointed Company Commissary Sergeant in place of Erastus D Crocker. absent… and he is now busy making preparations for the new move.. We had a very good dinner consisting of Potatoes beef and pork.. “Dixie” was taken out of jail this morning where he has been for about a week.. The furloughs of most of the men expire today and tomorrow. and we may now expect to have more lively times in a few days. 42 Camp Kellogg. Wednesday Nov 26 The weather continues cold. but as yet dry without any snow.. We do not do anything in the way of drilling But instead we are. busy building barracks, and other new quarters for, the regiment.. Monday afternoon we did not do anything. But Tuesday some of the men were busy on the barracks during the forenoon while others were busy digging a hole to set a new pole in.. and today the pole was raised.. and this evening the old flag was flung to the breezes amid the cheers of the men and the strains of Star Spangled Banner performed by the band.. The banner is a very large one being about twenty feet or more in length and of appropriate breadth. Yesterday Col Grey of the 6th returned to camp and was met at the depot by his entire regiment excepting those detailed for guard 42 Camp Kellogg. Wednesday Nov 26 The weather continues cold. but as yet dry without any snow.. We do not do anything in the way of drilling But instead we are. busy building barracks, and other new quarters for, the regiment.. Monday afternoon we did not do anything. But Tuesday some of the men were busy on the barracks during the forenoon while others were busy digging a hole to set a new pole in.. and today the pole was raised.. and this evening the old flag was flung to the breezes amid the cheers of the men and the strains of Star Spangled Banner performed by the band.. The banner is a very large one being about twenty feet or more in length and of appropriate breadth. Yesterday Col Grey of the 6th returned to camp and was met at the depot by his entire regiment excepting those detailed for guard 44 Camp Kellogg. Thursday. Nov. 27. /62 This is Thanksgiving day.. How different in many respects from Thanksgiving of last year. in many how like… The weather today is much like the same weather of last Thanksgiving. The same cold windy, snowy day, and I presume that were I at home I should find nearly the same muddy roads.. There is not so much snow today as there was then.. or at least not so much as there was there.. In these the two days are much alike.. But in the different conditions and places which I occupied then and now occupy. there is a wide difference.. Then I was at home surrounded by parents, brother, friends, and all the conveniences and necessaries of life and some few of the luxuries.. But today I am far from home, parents, friends almost.. with few of the conveniences and necessaries, and none of the luxuries of life. 45 Then I was in command of a small army of human beings try to learn their young ideas how to shoot.. Now I am among a number of friends and acquaintances and together we are under the command of. a certain set of men who have control of our persons. liberties. and life almost.. Holding them in their hands to be used for the welfare of the company country and to restore to our land it's former peace, prosperity and happiness.. May the Being who holds the welfare of nations and individuals direct their minds so that they may never cruelly and uselessly lead us to throw away our lives.. I witnessed at noon today the first severely military punishment I have ever seen.. A man in Co “B” of the 6th Capt Weber.. has seen fit for sometime past to set at defiance all restrictions and authority of his superior officers. to so great an extent as to, with good reason claim guard 46 house as his home. But Capt Weber today concluded to vary the punishment and accordingly tied him by his thumbs to the limb of a tree at such a distance from the ground as to but slightly touch the ground with his toes.. and of course bearing the greater part of his weight on his thumbs.. this seems severe. but I think it but just, considering the offences Men are still busy at work on the barracks and they are beginning to assume the appearance of buildings.. Our Thanksgiving dinner consisted of boiled beef, bean soup, and bread.. “good enough what there was of it and enough of it unless it was better.” This forenoon. [illegible in original] Brownell. Jack Jemmerson. and John Pullen.. went down town on an old pass. and were not missed until after dinner.. when a sergeant and four men were sent after them. and Jemmerson and Pullen have gone to the guard house until morning. 47 ly Capt Walker is quite ill today seeming^ threatened with a fever.. The health of th camp is extraordinary. I went over to the hospital for some medicine for Capt Walker. and heard the Surgeon say that they had but four or five there at present.. To day the company desks. came and the one marked “A” was handed over to Capt Walker.. This virtually settles the long undecided question of who should have company “A”.. and although. we deserve it others have felt equally sure of getting it.. Camp Kellogg. Sunday. Nov. 30. /62 The Snow storm still continues and has continued almost without ces sation since Thursday morning: It has not been very severe, and some of the time it has thawed faster than it fell therefore there is not much snow on the ground today.. 48 Thursday evening at roll call I received a letter in Nells hand But being obliged to go to the sinks I threw it, as I supposed, into my blouse pocket but on coming back I put my hand into my pocket I found it gone. I then instituted a careful search by moonlight for it but could not find it.. Then Allen Park and I borrowed a lantern and searched the path over again but with out success.. Next morning I was out before daylight and searched the park again but could not find it. I have looked for it every day since but without success. Friday the men continued to work on the barracks.. In the morning Capt Walker who had been complaining for a day or two went down to the National Hotel.. to remain until he recovered.. 49 I visited him during the after noon and found him some better.. Edwin Dumphrey was also quite unwell but remained in the Captains quarters.. In the evening Orderly Holton took a squad of twelve of us down to the Theater.. The play was Uncle Toms Cabin. which being quite well performed was quite interesting.. Yesterday all the working force was ordered out to work on the bar racks. the kitchens were commenced and in the afternoon they commen ced to move the Quartermasters stores.. ed to the new building.. They finish^ covering the new barracks: and tore down the Quartermasters building and removed all that was in it.. Lieut Nichols enlisted a new man yesterday morning.. named Charles Hopkins.. George Vosburgh came in Friday evening bring ing with him an old French or Russian soldier. as a new recruit. 50 Today we have had a perfect uproar in the barracks all day.. Some went to town to church. but the majority of those who remained in camp have been on a regular “tear” On Friday evening I received an interesting letter from Irenus McGowan who is in or near. Nashville Tennessee. Allen Park also received one from John Sparks. who said that his leg was covered with more sores than when we were home.. and which still kept him down.. Poor fellow. how much he has suffered.. and will yet suffer before he gets up again 51 1862 Camp Kellogg. Wednesday Dec. 3 The weather Since Sunday has continued wintry and everything seems to say that winter has fairly set in.. It occasionally thaws some during the middle of the day but every night it snows again so that it remains about as deep as ever.. Monday they continued to work on the barracks: Sunday after noon after the services were over the ladies from the city presented each soldier they could find with a Testament.. I did not happen to be out and so failed to get one.. Sunday evening twenty six of us went to meeting at the M.E. Church across the river.. Monday evening Sergt O.Brien took a squad of us to the theater.. The er play was new. and most of the performs^ were new ones. But it was not very inter esting after all.. Quartermaster Sergt Chas. O. Pratt was promoted to regimental Commis sary Sergt. 52 Seageant E O. Cook was promoted by Capt Walker to fill the vacancy thus made in the company. and there fore causing another vacancy in the Sergeantcies in the company which must be filled either by promotion by regular grade or by assign ment by Col Mann.. Yesterday was a very cold day and during the night. it commenced to snow again.. I helped the Orderly about making out the pay rolls of the company as we are in hopes to get one months pay this week.. Last evening Lieut Briggs re turned bringing with him a new recruit.. He came into camp this morning.. Richardson and Milliman also returned last evening.. 53 Camp Kellogg. Monday December. 8th /62 Since writing last Wednesday we have been too busy most of the time to allow of my writing.. Wednesday night I was quite sick with a severe cold. and. Thursday I continued too un well to do much.. Thursday Gov. Blair with several other notables whom I did not know. He reviewed the 6th regiment and told them that they must leave for Washington this week. but that he was sorry they could not be paid before they left.. Some swore they would not go unless they were paid.. Friday morning C.E. Greble of Battle Creek came here and I had a good visit with him.. He is going to raise a company for the 8th cavalry now stationed at Mount Clemens 54 Friday afternoon we moved into our new barracks. and at first we thought they were worse than the old ones. and there was a great deal of grum bling. But Col Mann heard it Saturday morning and after talking to them awhile and tell ing them to be patient. and he would make them more comfort able. he called for some volunteer carpenters. from each company he set them to work and the rest of us to drilling: The morning was very cold and disagreeable.. In the afternoon the Col. ordered a floor laid in the barracks which made them a great deal more comfort able.. Sunday was very cold and stormy a part of the day.. One of the clergymen of the city delivered a farewell sermon to the 6th regiment of which I heard a part.. 55 Saturday morning the Orderly divided the company into squads according to the size of the men and assigning a Sergt and two corporals to each division: There being but two seven corpo rals I only got one with me. Although it seperates many who had been in the habit of bunking together there is but little grum bling among the men.. Today has been some warmer than some of the preceding ones.. This morning we were all ordered out for drill. and at noon. Col Mann ordered a box of rifles opened and the noncommisioned. officers to learn the manual of arms which is to be taught, by a Lieut in Capt Armstrong's company whose name I do not as yet know.. We are to drill with them. from 9. to 10 A.M. and from 1 to. 2. P.M. and with the men from 10. to 12. and 2 to 4. 56 Camp Kellogg. Thursday December 11th /62 We have been quite busy during the past four days: so much so that I have almost forgotten what day of the week this is.. Tuesday the 6th commenced moving.. and tore up their tents and moved there to the cars by night so that by night there was not a tent. nor anything for shelter under which the men could sleep. They built up fires burning everything they could lay hands on. and large bonfires were kept up all night. Yesterday morning however no men were on the ground. One company of horses left in the morning.. Everything looks lonesome since they left.. Tuesday night forty germans for the battery arrived here. fine looking fellows they are too.. 57 Yesterday morning they were set at work and mounted the four steel guns that were ground and worked all the fore noon getting the guns and caissons into position where they now stand with two of the men on guard over them.. Tuesday evening after the 6th was all broken up it was found necessary to form an almost entire new guard.. with offices and officer of the day Lieut Boughton of Co B. was appointed Officer of Day, and Sergt Luomis of Co A” Officer of Guard. Yesterday morning we had the first Guard mounting of the 7th with Lieut Sproles of Co ‘E' officer of day and Sergt E.O. Lang Officer of Guard with Sergt Fisher of Co ‘E' and myself as Sergeants of the guard. 58 We had drill in companies and noncommissioned officers in manual of arms Tuesday but in neither yesterday. Every man in camp was detailed for guard and to work tearing down old buildings and building a guard house yesterday.. and they still continue working on them today Some of the boys emboldened by their success of Sunday evening supplied our table yester day with a load of chickens. The old proverb says that stolen fruit tastes sweetest. I do not know as this is so. But I do know that chickens never tasted better than they have this week.. Lieut Briggs went to Detroit on very urgent business. yesterday morning. when he will return we do not know.. 59 Col. Mann also went away yesterday morning and will be gone about two weeks.. Col. Litchfield is also absent. and the regiment is under com mand of our Major whose name I do not know. The opinion is quite prevalent among our officers that we will leave here within the next six weeks. Col Mann was heard to tell Lieut Briggs that we would be away from here by the 25th of this month.. We can not hardly beleive this as there cannot be over six hundred men now on the ground. He says. that he has al ready 900 men enlisted and the remainder will be ready by New Years Our horses are all contracted to be here by th 29th of the month.. and if they are got here we shall leave soon after 60 Camp Kellogg, Tuesday Dec.. 16 /62 like This looks very much ^ winter again It commenced snowing during the latter part of last night and this morning the ground was white again. Previous to this time it had been quite good weather for several days: I did not do much during the latter part of the week. The ground was muddy so that our drill in the Manual of arms was postponed. [illegible in original] except about half an hour Saturday morning: Saturday afternoon I was detailed to take charge of a squad of men to pile up lumber and otherwise clean up the campground: Satuday evening I took charge of a squad of ten of our boys. to, go to the theater; The bringing of the squad secured me a free ticket to admittance: The play was the “Lady of Lyons” and proved the most entertaining one I have yet seen: 61 Sunday Major Houston. procured the services of the Rev. Mr Smith of the ed Congregational church of this city who address^ us at 3 Oclock in the afternoon, Quite a number of ladies and gentleman from the city visited us notwithstanding the dampness of the day: After the services were ended we marche to the old parade ground of the 6th where we went through the form of a “Dress parade.” which from the ignorance of our Adjutant and Major was quite a laughable affair.. Our Adjutant is a really fine fellow and one of the best educated men of the state. but is entirely ignorant of military matters. and especially of drill.. Saturday night I received a letter from Nell, containing half a sheet of paper and a dozen postage stamps I answered on Sunday; Friday afternoon I received a letter from Rene: which I answered on Saturday. I received a letter from W.H. Curtis Sunday afternoon. 62 In consequence of the stormy weather which seemed threatened some of the boys drew their “Poncho Blankets.” during the middle of the week and on Friday our officers made a requisition upon the Quartermaster for their number of them and those who choose to can now draw them at any time. I have not yet drawn one thinking it better to leave it until my duties made it neces sary for me to have one, a number of pairs of drawers were drawn about the same time. and many of the men now have two pairs of drawers: Sunday evening Newton Sparks and I visited Alex Lowry at the hospital and found some better than when he went there but yet very weak. and almost utterly prostrated! Chas Bonnel was also there : but every one there thinks that he shams more sickness than he really has and they call him the “Baby of the Hospital” 63 Sunday evening I received orders from our Sergeant Major to report next morning for duty as “Officer of the Guard.. It was a post I did not crave in the least: But seeing no way to get out of it I did as ordered: Etiquette demanding that I should wear a sword and having none of my own I borrowed an old one of Captain Armstrong: But Major Houston seeing the predicament we were placed in ordered that each Sergt should be supplied with a sabre and trappings which was accord ingly done: and about ten Oclock I was sporting one of my own. which suited me much better than the old one I had before: I placed one poor old fellow in the Guard House: whose offence was get ting drunk and outstaying the time allowed by the pass given him Sunday: The report was just circulated in the barracks just now that 25 horses for our regiment had arrived in the city I sincerely hope this is not so: for if they begin to come in now it will deprive some from going home next week.. 64 Camp Kellogg Wednesday December 17th 1862 Day clear and cold. though thaw ing slightly during the middle of the day. At dinner roll call. the Sergeants were ordered to assemble at the drill house with sabres to receive a lesson: at half past one: We were all there promptly at the time appointed. But were informed by Col Litchfield that the meeting was intended only for commissioned officers. But since we had all come we might all stay: The lesson, consisted only of the primary steps. draw. carry. present and return Sabre. intended only to help the com missioned officers on Dress Parade. A lesson containing in structions for the forming and arranging the different squadrons on parade was also given the officers. 65 We had parade as usual at half past three oclock P.M. [headed?] by Col. Litchfield who conducted it in a somewhat different manner from that in which Major Houston conducted it.. An order was read on parade reducing Sergeant Robert [Cobert?] of the battery to the ranks for disobe dience to orders. using disrespectful language to a superior Officer and for insubordination.. this is too bad as he is really a fine, intelligent looking fellow. and is well educated.. He is the best swordsman I ever saw.. But is rather a hard [pet?] if we are to beleive the reports of his Orderly Sergeant who seems to be jealous of him. and who seems to be one who seems to make a good deal of the little authority given him: The bat tery men drill at their guns during the day. each day: 66 Today quite a number of horses came on the ground were inspected by Capt Botham Warner and most of them inspec accepted and branded A number of men from each company were detailed from to night to take care of them: Although I was not detailed I went with them wanting to see the horses. many of which are very good. I rode one of them to the river to water them. Ninety More are expected in the city to night Some one reports that Col Litchfield said that the first battalion of our regiment would leave here a week from tomorrow. This must be false for it seems impossible that we shall leave in the condition we now are: But here is a letter from Nell and I will write no more to night.. 67 Camp Kellogg. Thursday December 18, 1862.. The day has been clear windy and quite cold.. It thawed some during the middle of the day.. but the snow does not go off very fast.. This morning Col Mann returned to camp and the first intimation I had of his return was the order to fall out for drill.. which it was said came from him.. Some of the other companies went out with quite a squad of men in each.. But after call ing through the barracks. and over the ground for our company we got together one Lieutenant. four Sergeants. and as many privates: After fooling around awhile Lieut Briggs ordered us to fall in right dress. right face. break ranks. march which evolutions were performed with more of a “vim” than is customary for our company.. and we then gave three cheers for Lieut Briggs 68 At eleven Oclock the noncommis sioned officers were ordered out for drill in the manual of arms. which drill lasted about an hour.. We drilled in the new drill room.. At three O.clock the Orderlys and commissary sergeants were ordered to meet at the drill room. to receive some instructions from Col Mann.. What these instructions were we have not yet learned.. Our drill Dress Parade instead of being at half past 3.Oclock was post poned until after four Oclock Col Mann acted as Adjutant in forming the parade: but it was presided over by Lieut Col Litchfield.. An order was read Assigning Capt [N?] Moore or Enmore to the commanding of Co “E” and to the insruction of the guards in the manual of arms and in their duties as guards.. The ordered was headed Lee. Barracks. But whether the camp is to be known by this name or not is not known, to many at least.. 69 Horses still continue to come in: About 30. more were accepted today, as good ones as their predecessors of yesterday The barracks still progress each day slowly ‘tis true, but yet surely. Part of a new company have come in quietly. within the past two or three days. They number some twenty or twenty five men. but. whose they are or where they belong. or came from no one knows.. Many rumors are afloat in camp since Col Mann's return. some to full of untruth and unreasonableness to be for a moment credited: But there are two which are readily received and beleived by many who are the best informed among us.. They are that no more furloughs will be granted. and that we will leave here by the first of January: Many of the boys will be sadly disap pointed and some will doubtless take furloughs of their own. even at the risk of severe punishment 70 But to those who love law and order there seems no remedy but to “grin and bear it..” Many of us have no reason to grumble without furloughs. as some have had as many as five furloughs: Burlingham returned last evening and Streeter tonight.. Capt Walker went to Detroit yesterday morning. with Luke to have him mustered. He may go to Niles before he returns to camp again. Some men have been in camp today wanting to advance the men a months pay. at [illegible in original]. Some of the com panies are selling but as yet no move has been made in our company.. The noncommissioned officers who had received rifles. were ordered to return them to the quarters of. Lieut Littlefield with the intention of having them issued to the men in the different companies tomorrow.. This begins to look a little like work.. 71 Lee Barracks. Friday December 19. 1862 Day clear, sunshiny and cold.. This morning we were ordered to attend Sergeants drill mounted.. We each went to the stable and chose a horse: By the way we were furnished with only a watering bridle and blanket.. no saddles are to be allowed us ‘till we have first learned to write ride without them: Lieut Col Litchfield superin tended the drill which consisted only of instructions concerning the position of sitting a horse manner of holding the reins. mounting and dismounting: We had mounted at the stables, from stumps and everything convenient.. But when it came to mounting from the ground some of us found it no easy matter. My horse was young and firey 72 and I had no surcingle so that when I leaped upon his back he humped rolled sideways. the blanket ^ and although not thrown I did not succeed in moun ting him: The Col seeing my fix, at length. came to me and assisted me to mount him: and also another one who was as slow as myself.. One poor fellow (of Co. B. I think) was unhorsed while trotting and his horse ran away to the stables: The Col laughed and told him he could be excused. The companies were out on drill both forenoon. and fore afternoon. The drill is very simple. Col Mann doing away with all of the complicated movements and doing nothing but facings and position of the soldier.. Horses continue to come in today as usual. Two droves. of perhaps thirty in each came in today: as good or better ones than the preceding ones: 73 They are to be divided into lots. and each company to take care of a just proportion of them.. The perplexing question con cerning furloughs seems to be decided and every one seems to beleive there will be no more grumbled. granted. at least to those who have already had one or e r more: I h^a^d. our Quartermaster this morning say that Cols Mann and Litch field were quite confident that our regi ment would be full by the first of January, and that he wanted the horses all sent in by that time: We drew our cross sabres and letters for, our, caps this afternoon: An order was read on parade tonight. giving this camp the name of Lee Barracks hereafter.. 74 Lee Barracks Monday December 22nd 1862. 1. A.M. This is rather an unusual and perhaps unseasonable time for me to take my pen to write here. But I am obliged to keep awake. and having everything handy I drive along: The weather still continues about the same as usual.. Yesterday was clear sunny. windy and very cold. Volunteered in the morning to assist in taking care of horses. and groomed and fed one in the morning. and at night noon and watered him at morning and night.. The one I had chosen on Friday had been taken from among our lot and I was obliged to choose another in which I was quite successful.. During the forenoon the rifles were issued to the company. each one being also supplied. with a cork stop [per?] for his rifle and those who were taking care of the horses with blanket surcingle. watering bridle. 75 curry comb and brush: About three O'clock. P.M. Sergt E.S. Lang who was Officer of the guard came to me and asked if I would do an errand for Col Mann. which I was but too ready to do. He then gave me a message from Col Mann to some one in Detroit which I car ried to the Telegraph office and had sent off and waited until an answer to the same was received which I brought back and handed to our Adjutant in the absence of Col Mann. I had procured a pass from Lieut Briggs sometime before for myself and ten men. and think ing this a good chance I asked the Adjutant if he would sign it which he did readily.. Eight men went with me to the theater which was very good.. The play was. The Drunkard. and was quite inter esting: The farce was entitled A Husband at sight: and was quite laugh able 76 When I got back to camp I found two letters for me. one from Mother. the other from Nell. Nells, contained five dollars sent for the purpose of enabling me to get home to spend Christmas and New Years. But I can not go.. This, or yesterday morning I was detailed at the last moment to act as sergt of the guard.. The day was [lowry?], cold, very cold in the morning but growing milder towards noon and a fine, drizzling rain setting in. but which did not last long: still it continued warmer all of the day. and tonight it is quite comfortable.. We have just come in from the “Grand Rounds.” on which we found our sentries all alert and stirring and failed to get the countersign away from any one. I have been very busy writing all night: having answered both Mothers and Nells letters covering 12 twelve pages of largest sized letter paper to write them.. But a few horses came in on Sat urday, not more than twelve or fifteen I think.. 77 Today the regimental blacksmith Sergt Major. Quartermaster Sergt and another went riding to try some of our horses: Sometime during the afternoon the blacksmith mounted a horse which ran away and threw him off. then ran down town where he was caught. and a young man mounted him to ride back to camp when he ran away threw him off and broke his leg twice: and laming the horse badly.. Services were to be held at 3 P.M. in the drill room I do not know whether there was any preaching or not.. I went in after awhile and found Col Litch field reading the army regulations to those assembled there. I shall try hard for a furlough tomorrow, but with poor prospects of success. But I can only fail by trying. Barber, Springer, McNiel and Allen received furloughs today and went out tonight 78 Lee Barracks Friday December 26th 1862 The weather this week has been variable and unpleasant.. Sunshine and storm.. storm and sunshine: mud and snow and then mud again: I am now writing where I wrote the last preceding pages: but at an hour somewhat earlier in the evening It is now nine O'clocks the time when horses & folke are generally found in bed. but I am doomed to remain up for three or four hours yet. and perhaps all night: I am acting as Officer of the guard. tonight.. Monday morning about seven O'clock to I went ^ the barracks and slept till about ten O'clock when I was awakened by the cry of “Sergeants of Co ‘A' fall in for drill” But not thinking myself compelled to do so I did not “fall in:” At noon I went with the company to take care of the horses. and afterwards attended Sergts drill in the Manual of arms which was conducted by Major Newcombe.. 79 Monday was quite warm and the snow nearly all melted away and on Tuesday there was but little left.. In the forenoon of Tuesday the Sergts corporals and twenty men of each company were ordered out to drill on horse back. In the afternoon such of the company as were not on drill other duty were got out to drill in the manual of arms. and were taken charge of by Sergt Richardson while Sergts Holton and myself went to the drill room thinking there was to be a Sergts drill: but after waiting there about an we found that the drill was postponed and that at three O'clock there was a meeting of the first Quartermaster and Commissary Sergts of each company at which meeting Col Mann gave them some instructions in regard to the manner of doing their business: As I was writing there I could hear their instructions which were quite instructive 80 Col Mann likes to have everything done up in good order and will have it done just so or not at all: and he has an eye like an eagle and nothing escapes him: Horses continue to come in by lots each day: Wednesday was quite warm and pleasant: The same number drilled during the forenoon. while a few more were on police duty at the stables. grading the stalls and digging trenches to lead the water away from them. In the afternoon all of the company was detailed for the purpose: Tuesday evening I went with a squad of men under Cap Reynolds to the theater The play was Hamlet Mr [illegible in original] acting as Hamlet. Jesse McFarland danced a highland fling in real Scotch costume. and drew down the cheers. from the house. and after being loudly called for came out the second time. 81 Thursday was Christmas although it was widely different from any I ever passed before. We were sent to work at the stables after watering our horses: but for some reason most of the company returned to the quarters. and but three or four were to be found to work there: The forage master wanting all the halters that could be found [illegible in original] Graham and myself went to work opening boxes containing them.. We opened ten boxes and took from them fifty halters surcingles. watering bridles. curry combs and brushes: Several horses came in during the day: more than on any other day since we commenced receiving them.. We now have upwards of sixty horses assigned to our company.. The weather yesterday was warm. and dry. and the ground began to feel solid again. but during the evening it commen ced raining and this morning it was raining and has continued to rain up to a few moments ago. when it cleared up and bids fair to be pleasant again 82 Last night after returning from watering the horses. while Sergt Lang was dismounting his foot caught in the stirrup of his saddle and threw him on the ground while his horse broke away and ran off through the bushes: Four or five men immediately started in pursuit of him but did not succeed in catching him: This morning four men went again in search of him. But while they were gone he was brought in by some men who had caught him and who, it is said, charged three dollars for bringing him in: This morning I went with the com pany to clean and feed the horses but was obliged to go on guard and have had no chance to atttend to the horses since that time Bradley who has been sick for several days procured a furlough and want home this foreno afternoon. 83 Corporal Graham went over to the hospital this afternoon. and found the boys quite down: Alex. Lowry is very poorly and I should not be surprised did he not live a month poor fellow I wish he might go home. Chester Calvin is also quite unwell. I think these two are all of our boys now there.. Sergt E.D. Cook returned to camp to night bringing with him some new recruits: who will be gladly welcomed by every one. Tuesday evening a new company of forty men arrived in the city. and in camp Wednesday morning being met every where by three hearty cheers.. They drew their Clothing and received furloughs [util?] January 3d On Wednesday night another com pany arrived with thirteen men, and came into camp Christmas morn ing.. I received a letter from Isom and Melinda this morning and have answered it to night 84 Wednesday afternoon Newton Sparks and Freeman Howe obtained furloughs and started for home. After they had been gone a little while the Col. found that he had furloughed a bugler and was very angry and ordered him sent for. But no steps were taken to get him: This morning as it was very rainy and I considered it dangerous to be out much with out something to protect me I drew my ‘Poncho” blanket which helps to keep one dry amazingly: Lee Barracks. Sunday Eve December 28th /62 The weather has improved amazingly since Friday night. Yesterday was clear and cold and the mud dried very fast so that it is much more pleasant getting around on the camp ground than it was Friday.. Yesterday all those who came off guard in the morning were allowed passes to go to the city. and as I had been in camp three or four weeks without a pass I was quite glad to get one: 85 Having received information Friday that Alex Lowrie had received notice from P.N. Taylor Esq that he could get his back pay for him if he would sign a power of attorney for him. I went to the hospital and saw Alex and found a power of Atty already made out requiring only his signature and acknowledgment before a notary public to make it all right.. I knew that he was too unwell to attend to the business for himself. so I found a Notary Public and got him to go with me to the hos pital and there receive the acknowledgement I then procured the Seal of the County Clerk upon it and mailed it to Mr Taylor. Alex is very low and I think I never saw but one person that looked worse than he does.. At the evening mail a large document was handed me directed to Alex: and bearing the mark of O W Howard upon it. Mistrusting that this was some thing relating. also to this business 86 I lost no time in conveying it to him. and found it to contain two papers relating to the matter and which signed by him would secure his final discharge from the 12th regiment and back pay on that discharge. and also a note from Mr Howard desiring to know what right Mr P.N. Taylor had to draw this money. I sat down immediately and wrote an answer for “Alick” telling him the nature of the business between him and Taylor.. “Alick” also signed the papers. and desired Mr Howard to send the money on directly without waiting to hear from Taylor.. and I mailed the letter immediately.. Corporal Adams and Pitts Walling ran the guard last night and I a patrol was sent out and they were caught and put into the guard house where at sundown today ly they still remain: Adams must certain^ lose his position now. and ought to have done so long ago.. 87 Today has been clear and pleasant.. It was quite cold this morning but was warmer during the middle of the day and until night. this forenoon at eleven O'clock we had our first inspec tion. We were obliged to have our bunks made up in proper order our boots cleaned and blacked. our clothes properly brushed and mended. our Jackets on. and in line with our rifles in tip top order and with us. Our guns were first inspected and after that was over we marched to the quarters and each took his post opposite his bunk, and stood with caps off. and arms shouldered while our bunks were inspected.. The inspection was made by the commanders of the companies: At half past three O'clock this after noon religious services were held in the reading room by the Rev Mr Smith of the congregational church.. of this city.. He also contributed quite an amount of reading matter to our collection in the reading room. 88 At half past four O'clock we had a “Dress Parade” each man appearing with his gun for the first time: A good many of the citizens were out to visit us.. and attend the religious services.. Our reading room is quite an institution. and a large assortment of reading matter: is now on hand. We do not get much time however to be here. and the greater part of the time I have to spend here I spend in writing: Our brass band which has a week past been gone.. ^ returned to camp this morning and assisted at Guard mounting and Dress Parade this afternoon: Sergt Loomis returned to camp last night and I was glad to see him as we need all of our Sergts here now. Marcott also returned. Sergt E.D. Cook went with his recruits to Detroit to have them mustered. when he will again return to Niles. 89 Lee Barracks Tuesday Morning Dec. 30, 62 [illegible in original] I have just come off Guard again having been detailed as Sergt of the guard yesterday morning. and together with Sergt Loomis as Officer of the Guard we ran the institution “manfully: the day was quite cool but clear and pleasant. We found three or four prisoners in confinement and soon after upon complaint of Lieut Holmes I arrested and confined there Private Hill of Co “E..” Soon after Sergt E. P Lang.. brought there Chas Malcolmb of Co ‘A' and requested us to confine him.. But as we had received no order from Lieut Brigg we could not do, so: It was not long however before the order was forthcoming. and he soon found himself an inmate of the large cell.. His offence was abusive language to Sergt Holton and also striking Sergt Richardson.. It will very likely go hard with him 90 The remainder of the day went on quite pleasantly and quietly.. Dress Parade came off at three O'clock and was quite a splendid thing.. An Order was read from Lieut Col Litchfield. reducing Corporal Adams of our Company to the ranks.. This is perfectly just and right. During the evening Sergt Holton requested him to remove his stripes. But he refused to do so, also using abusive language towards him.. and he soon after found himself again an inmate of the Guard house and in com pany with his Kindred spirits.. The countersign “Quebec” had scarcely been given to the third releif. before three or four privates went out with it. which was soon reported to the Officer of the Guard who also informed the Officer of the day. and the countersign was changed to “Montreal” and orders given to the sentries to allow no man to pass them. with either countersign except at the Sally Port” 91 It was not long until Barney a bugler of Co. “T together with a private of the same Co” were “bagged” but after consultation between the Officers of Day and Guard with the officers of Co “B” they were sent to their quarters.. Soon after it was reported that two men had run the guard near the head quarters. and a Sergt and corporal and private were sent after them. They returned however without capturing them.. But in a little while two boys from Co B. appeard at the Sally Port and requested admittance: They stated that they had gone to the city on a pass with two others who had gone off and left them: while they being tired returned without them: They were brought in to the Officer's room and Sergt Loomis after questioning them awhile proceded to take their names when one of them refused to give his name and said he preferred going into the next room: to waiting until being reported this morning.. 92 They then confessed that they were the two who had run the guard a few moments before: This was a little the richest “note” of the season and we enjoyed “hugely” their discomfiture.. They were soon lodged with the others.. A squad of Patrols from the Battery came in about 9 Oclock bringing with them Private [Barn?]- miller of their company who was also lodged in the cell with the others.. We now had eleven prisoners in one room about ten feet square.. They were well supplied with blankets each one having his overcoat and as many blankets as were therefore quite comfortable as it was not our orders nor our desires to have them suffer with cold.. They were quiet and orderly and occasioned but little trouble until towards morning when some one took out the window and Hill of Co “E” watching his chance when the sentry's attention was called another way leaped from the window 93 and ran as if for dear life to his quarters. But he was not destined to enjoy his freedom thus gained for a long time.. A Corporal soon disturbed him and he was lodged in one of the dark cells as a reward for his impatience and audacity.. A few ran the guard without being caught by the Patrols.. Several horses were sick during the night.. The night was clear and moonlight making it [very?] pleas ant and sleep almost impossible.. I slept however during the two hours of intervening between the changing of the releifs until after three O'clock when I awoke our other Sergt who releived me.: after that I crawled into my bunk and slept very well until Guard mounting this morning The day is somewhat colder than yesterday and the ground is dry and hard. A good many horses are being brought in to day. But dinner is ready and I must go: 94 Lee Barracks. Friday January 2d 1863.. Just off guard again. So goes it at present with we poor Sergts. I had anticipated that I would come on guard about New Years again. Yesterday morning however I was not detailed and thought I had escaped. But no! our imbecile or drunken Sergt. Major did not get out a sufficient number of sergeants Co E not furnishing one as ordered so Co ‘A' had to take it again. It fell upon Loomis or myself and as Loomis was detailed to command those tending to the horses I was the unlucky one: The order was given to Sergt Holton during the forenoon: but I being away watering horses did not receive it until nearly three Oclock in the afternoon, and saying some hard things. and think ing some harder ones I buckled on my old “Cheese Knife” and reported myself at the old [Stand?] 95 Things went off quite smoothly during the day and night.. We had but two prisoners “Dixie” and a German belonging to the Battery: Another one from Co ‘E' was placed there during the afternoon. having been brought up from the city drunk. Lieut Holmes ordered his release towards evening. and he was accordingly dismissed: The weather since Tuesday has been very pleasant and agreeable. until yesterday evening when it commenced raining and has rained constantly ever since. Instead of taking a pass during the day Tuesday as I was entitled to I concluded to wait and go to the city during the evening: consequently I went on duty.. taking care of the horses during the day. drilling in the afternoon and going on dress parade. none of which I was obliged to do. I helped water the horses at night likewise 96 Major Newcombe ordered all of the officers and sergeants to appear at the drill room at 7½ O'clock in the evening to drill in the manual of arms. and thinking I would be benefited more by attending that, than by going to the city. I shouldered. my rifle and was there some time before the appointed time: We had a good drill and I did not regret that I had staid.. Major Newcombe is a fine officer.. kind and obliging. having the faculty of explaining the drill to the understanding of all. slightly drawn back by an impedi ment in his speech.. making it harder for him to explain than for us to under stand.. I received a letter from Nell that evening. and it was most gladly welcomed as I had expected it for several days. and also from the fact that it contained a dozen of Postage Stamps. 97 Wednesday was a clear pleasant time day.: the usual stable duties were performed. a drill in the manual of arms by compa nies was held in the forenoon: and a battal ion drill in the afternoon consisting simply of manual of arms as far as parade rest. and in marching by fours. and wheeling into line.. Dress parade at 3 O'clock.. when orders were read Lovell reducing Corporals [illegible in original] and [Stearnes?] of Co “B” to the ranks for running the guard and sentencing them to six days extra guard duty: also privates Hill of Co “E” Malcolm of Co “A.” Springer of Co “B” and Van Pelt of the same.. Walling of Co “A” and [illegible in original] of the battery to the same. for various offences and un soldierly conduct.. This goes pretty hard: But Col Mann is determined to have discipline to punish every offender according to his guilt. while at the same time he encourages noble and soldierly conduct. and gives men all the privileges that they should ask 98 While the companies were at sup per Wednesday evening Col Mann visited the eating houses and told the men. that it being New Years Eve he should allow them all privileges that he consistently could.. They would be allowed to go to the theater in Squads under charge of a responsible persons the Sutler would be allowed to keep open his shop and they in camp should enjoy themselves ^ as they saw fit until one Oclock at the same time conducting themselves as soldiers and gentlemen.. Not knowing how to spend the time Richardson invited me into his room. to take a few games of Euchre with him.. and of course I accepted it.. During the fore part of the evening we heard squads of men marching over the camp apparently under charge of some ex extempore commander.. and cheering and laughing. But we did not know the cause or object.. But about nine O'clock a knock came at our door and upon challenging the answer 99 was “a friend”.. The door was opened and Sergt OBrien appeared and told Richardson that a friend from Niles wished to speak with him.. He was accordingly told to bring him for ward. and first one. then another and another came forward seizing him by leg and arms and endeavoring to carry him away by force. He accordingly resisted and quite a skirmish ensued which resulted in finally carrying him away with them.. I did not follow but patiently awaited his return, in the meantime repairing the stove pipe which had been disjointed during the scuffle.. Soon however there came another knock at the door.. I politely invited them in. when OBrien and Crook appeared and requested me to accompany them.. Knowing it to be vain to attempt resistance against such odds I ac cordingly surrendered and marched away with them and soon found myself at the Sutlers where each 100 took something to eat or drink at my expense.. After they had served me so. they marched to the Capt Quarters after Sergt Holton.. But not finding him Lieut Briggs voluntarily came back wth them and treated one and all.. next was Billy OBrien's turn. then Crooks. then Will Graham's then Harvey Reynolds who gave us quite a tussel but who treated like a man.. These together with Loomis and [Lang?] who had served their turns before were all then in camp.. About Eleven O'clock Anthony came in and the boys made him “wet his stripes” also.. Sergt Holton. Pratt and Milliman were postponed for the mor row.. Other companies did the same by their “non commish” and some of them demanded the same from Douglas. and an incredible amount of cakes, pies, cigars, apples, tobacco, cider, [illegible in original] and candy were eaten in those five hours 101 At twelve O'clock the battery wheeled their guns out on the knoll west of the camp and fired a salute of thirty four guns. the first notes uttered by our little Bull Dogs.. An order had been given by Major Newcombe that officers and Sergts should meet to drill at seven O'clock. which order was finally counter manded.. Yesterday but little drilling was done. Many of the men being busy all of the forenoon watering horses. while the remainder were busy policing and cleaning the grounds. which at Dress Parade presented a clean neat. and beautiful appearance: About time for Dress Parade a four horse carriage containing Col. Mann and several other gentle men came into camp.. and Col Mann was quite attentive showing them everything from kitchen to head quarters.. 102 During the Parade the battery again fired a salute of two guns. A horse attached to a buggy con taining a gentleman and two ladies took fright and ran across the camp until just outside the lines where it was checked for a few minutes.. after a while it started again. and when again stopped the man got out and took it by the head when it jumped sideways breaking one wheel. The ladies then got out when it started and ran dragging the man. who held it by the bits. about twenty rods when he stopped it again and finally managed to get it away from the buggy.. On the Grand Rounds last night an old man, a private of one of the com panies who accompanied us ran nearly every beat greatly amusing the Officer of the day and making the guards very angry: because they could not stop him. No trouble about the countersign being used last night. It was Antietam and very few men could pronounce it correctly.. 103 Horses have been coming in in great numbers this week.. Day before yesterday about a hundred came in and about seventy came in yesterday: Our Company now has a hundred to take care of.. Four new recruits from Cass County came in yesteday forenoon. Corporal Harrison returned to camp yesterday, or rather last night.. It is about time, too, that [Barber?] Springer. McNiel. Allen. Brownell. Howe Bradley Bonnell. Howe and Newt Sparks were back.. [Mealoy?] getting word that his little child was very sick and he immediately procured a furlough and went home.. a day or two ago Tomorrow will be the day for those new companies to return to camp again. their furloughs being out and their presence wanted here badly.. I received an invitation yesterday morning to eat dinner at a private house outside the camp ground. But was obliged by the press 104 of circumstances to decline. Harvey Reynolds went and said that he had not eaten a better dinner for sometime.. For Supper last night ed we had Oysters. and Chickens furnish^ by Lieut Briggs.. They were well cooked and together with a plenty of crackers and bread, butter and their chicken fixins was quite wholesome: Those who were on guard received. Oysters for breakfast this morning.. At noon yesterday the boys tried to get Sergt Holton to go and “wet his stripes” but he obsinately refused and even attem threatened to knife any who laid hands on him to take him by force.. The boys were exasperated at this and groaned him. Charley Pratt was captured but the boys being in a hurry postponed the treat until night.. Whether they got it then or not I do not know.. the Sergt Major was captured and made to treat.. 105 Milliman was captured at night and taken to the [illegible in original]. but absolutely refused to treate.. Finding that they might as well try to squeeze milk from a stone as to squeeze a treat from him.. they released him and gave him three hearty groans.. It still, continues to rain and the camp is already very muddy.. and as it shows no signs of stopping soon we shall be knee deep in mud about the stables and barracks before night Sergt OBrien is on guard today and I doubt not that either Loomis or myself will be on again tomorrow.. There has been a non commissioned officer from Co “A” this week every day and nearly every day [two?].. Monday.. Loomis and myself.. Tuesday. Corp. Anthony. Wednesday Sergt OBrien and Corp Graham. Thursday. Corp. Anthony and myself. Today Lieut OBrien and corp Graham. and what tomorrow will.. bring forth I dare not anticipate.. 106 Lee Barracks. Saturday January 3d 1863 The weather still continues warm and springlike.. the rain has ceased and the mud nearly dried up again: It is strange. though exceedingly pleasant and agree able that the weather should com tinue so warm and mild: Nothing of any note has transpired since yesterday morning. there fore I have but little to write.. and nothing of interest: Chester Calvin who has been in the hospital for some time. returned to camp discharged, but excused from duty for duty two days.. I was mistaken in saying that four recruits came in yesterday as there was but two. [Spout?] and Worthen. I had omitted also to state that on New Years a new set 107 of dishes consisting of cups plates and spoons. all bright and shining: were received On account of the storms weather Dress Parade was postponed both yesterday and today: Ditches have been dug and the barracks banked up some making it some warmer Tonight while watering horses one just in advance of my camel kicked. and just missing my horse hit me quite a blow on. my knee. It does not as yet hurt me much but it may be quite lame by morning. Howe and Luke have just come in on their furlough and it is also time that the others were also coming in. 108 Lee Barracks Monday January 5th 1863 As usual just, off guard again. Yesterday morning I was again detailed as Sergt of the guard. and accordingly obeyed.. It rained quite hard all the morning: and the guard was [mouted?] during quite a heavy shower.. making it neces sary to have our Ponchos on. which protect us quite well from the wet. I found Sergt Thomas of Co [“D”?] detailed for Officer of the Guard.. and found quite a pleasnt companion in him. and notwithstanding the stormy state of the weather. I spent about the most pleasant tour of guard duty I have ever performed.. We found seven prisoners in the guard house. two of them in the large cell and five in the dark cell. [illegible in original] of Co [“D”?] and Williams of Co. ‘E' large were confined in the ^ cell and were released during the day.. 109 Also during the day Keenan of Co “D” was confined in the large cell for refusing to do extra guard duty imposed upon him for some misdemeanor and was afterwards sentenced to confinement on bread and water diet until he consented to perform such duty: After learning his sentence he consented to perform said duty and was soon released: Esmond of Co “D”.. Beach. alias Bush of Co “E” together with Stamford and another one of Co “E” and Adams of Co “A” were confined in dark cell on bread and water diet.. Esmond and Bush for forty eight hours. the others for three days.. During the day they cut off two planks and commenced a hole in the outside when discovered. This was reported to Major Newcombe who ordered them to be tied.. But Lieut Schill of the Battery who was Officer of Day refused to leave them tied: But he removed them to another cell where they remained 110 After that they were more civil and remained quite still during the remainder of the day and night.. [illegible in original] and Bellinger of Co ‘A' were brought in by Tom Smith of Co “E” being found downtown about twelve O'clock at night.. I got Lieut Briggs to order their release about nine O'clock this morning: “Dixie” was also in there in the morning when we first took charge But Lieut Briggs ordered his release during the day. and he left. promising to behave himself and do his duty like a man hereafter: This morning finding that my looks began to show wear some I went to the city and got them [illegible in original].. While there I met Sergt Thomas and together we visited a great many of the manufacturing establishments that I had never before visited. 111 Thus we spent the time alloted to us by our passes. not. I am proud to say. as some do. But visiting places at once respectable and instructive.. The Foundry and Oil refinery back of Canal Street are large and extensive. showing thrift and enterprise: The Gas factory on Justice Street is also an interesting place to visit.. Thomas is an intel ligent and pretty well educated young man, and is good company indeed.. Just as I got back to camp I found the company falling in and was ordered to fall in likewise: I did so, listening somewhat to various reports: and was marched to the reading room where we found Surgeon Upjohn who vaccinated each and every one without regard to whether they had before endured it or not. Other companies have been draw ing there sabres and cartridge boxes and belts, also the scales for their shoulders 112 This is I beleive in accordance with an order from Col Mann issued on Dress Parade yesterday: Our company have drawn their shoulder [plates?] but Lieut Briggs thinks that the men now have more than they can easily do, without having any more arms to take care of and therefore will not issue them as long as it can be warded off.. I think this is a sensible view of the case.. A number of new recruits came in this morning. and every enlisted man belonging to the regiment is ordered to be in camp this week.. George Matchett from Niles just came in tonight having returned from a furlough: No Others have come in as yet to night.. Mealoy came in last night. I received an interesting letter from John Cowles last Saturday evening. He is now in New Orleans again 113 Lee Barracks Tuesday January 13, 1863 The past week I have been so busy that I could not find the time to write any. It has been drill every spare moment of the time we have not done stable duty.. Once or twice during the past week there has a little snow fallen, but the greater part of the time we have had very good weather.. To day it is raining: a cold frozen sleet: making the ground very slippery and everything very disagreeable: consequently we have not watered our horses this mor ning: Everything goes on in nearly the same old [illegible in original] [tracks?]: I have not been on guard quite so often during the past a week as formerly: On ^ Thursday I was again Segt of the Guard and Segt Thomas of Co “D” Officer of Guard.. and we enjoyed a first rate good time: On Wednesday morning after coming back from watering the horses. on opening the door of our 114 quarters what was my surprise to see Dan [Lingo?] standing by the stove: I could not have been more surprised had I as suddenly found myself at home. Tom Smith. “E.” and G Brickle Wm Henderson. and G.B. Marchett returned about the same time. Newt Sparks returned to Camp Wednesday morning bringing from home. for me a pair of good gloves. and the pictures of Father and Mother.. and letters from home and other friends: Capt. Walker returned at the same time with Newt. but left for Detroit the next morning. and from there to Niles. again: When he will return again is not known to us: Lieut Nichols returned at the same time and has been with us at intervals since. but Lieut Briggs is the mainstay. Newt Sparks yester day received orders from Col Mann to act as chief bugler of the regiment 115 I received letters from Irenus McGowan.. [T.M. Fulson?] G. W Lee none and others last week to all of which I have not yet found time to answer.. Last night I received a letter from Nell saying that he was sick with a disease somewhat like the measles: but was recovering again: Once or twice during the past week Col Mann drilled the Officers and non-commissioned officers in the correct formations of their companies and in marching in column. by file by. twos and by fours: Nearly every evening there has been a drill in the manual of arms with rifle. in the drill room A Battalion drill is held whenever the weather permits and Dress Parade every afternoon.. Sunday after watering duty was performed we had an inspection of arms and everything before dinner: after dinner and stable duty was again over we had preaching by a young man just from the army in the field 116 Yesterday morning we had drill in marching under direction of Col. Mann at which all field Officers. commissioned and non commissioned officers were ordered to be present each one with a rifle.. In the afternoon a drill of all officers in the Sabre exercise. under Col.. Mann.. I was considerably diverted at Major Houston.. who has considerable fun in him and says the privates know no more about these things than he does.. Marion Nicols returned on Saturday last.. having been absent about two months: He reports Crocker as being too unwell yet to return to camp We have been living rather hard for a long time back and a good many com plaints have been made. but nothing has been done to help the matter any.. This morning we had so little bread that many of us did not get a crumb i and those deta^led for guard refused to go until they had their breakfast 117 They stuck to this resolution against all orders. threats and entreaties. until Lieut Briggs promised to get their break fast at the Sutlers and see that it did not occur again.. Whether this will help the matter hereafter remains to be seen: We are all looking for better times when Capt Walker gets with us again.. which we hope will be soon: A new company was reported as coming in last night but I have not heard any thing of it this mor ning: It somewhat resembles the mor ning one which we first saw Camp Kellogg. but is much colder.. It is four months last night since I enlisted and we have not received a cent of money yet. excepting our 25 dollars bounty Col Smith was reported to be in the city last.. evening but we do not know this to be true 118 Lee Barracks Saturday January 17th 1863.. The weather this week has been quite variable; part of the time cold. clear and pleasant. and a part of the time stormy and disagreeable. Capt Walker returned to camp on Tuesday evening. bringing with him two recruits. Schrouder and Davis. He remains with us still and will do so hereafter.. As Sergt Holton was unwell Tuesday I performed his duties that day and next. long enough to mount the guard next morning. when Sergt Loomis took my place for which I was truly thankful. when I found myself. or him called upon to make out a list of all the men in the company stating when and where they enlisted whether married or unmarried. preparatory to a final muster. giving to the proper places 119 the credit of those men who have enlist ed. from those places.. This muster took places on Thursday afternoon with our company and com pany “B” with the remaining. companies yesterday.. These rolls will be sent im mediately to the office of the Adjutant Generals office and the proper credit immediately given to the different places: As Richardson was also sick Capt Walker desired me to take his place and act as Commissary Sergt for a while: Richardson has injured himself badly. While riding a horse some time ago the horse stumbled injuring him severely and he is now suffereing a great deal: being unable to leave his bed except when absolutely necessary: I did not know but little about the business but am gaining some on the manner of carrying it on: 120 Yesterday the commanders of the companies drew for the colors of their horses: Capt Walker at first drew light bays but not being sat isfied he exchanged them for dark bays.. This afternoon the companies have had their horses assigned them. but not to individuals.. which will be done probably on Monday: Our company has been assigned seventy-two horses.. I do not know what luck they have had in the quality of the horses as I was obliged to come to camp to draw some rations before the division was completed and did not go back again: Col. Mann went to Detroit this morning: when he will return is not known. neither. his errand.. It is said that Col Smith will come here next week and mus ter the regiment in. and if full pay what is due them 121 Sergt E.D. Cooke returned to camp on Wednesday evening bringing with him R.R. Bradley who had been home on furlough. Bradley was detailed for Special duty the next day. and Ed. Cooke is now acting in his proper capacity of Quartermaster Sergt.. Lieut Nichols reported for duty yesterday morning and was put on as officer of Day. to day: I received a letter from Isom and Melinda Thursday evening and answered it yesterday.. A slight fall of snow came on Thursday night.. making the ground white. but not giving us any sleighing: Several new companies have come into camp during the week past.. and our commissary told me that he was feeding nine hundred men at present.. 122 Lee Barracks Tuesday January 20, 1863.. The weather since Saturday has taken a slight change: but for better or worse it is hard to determine. Sunday was as usual clear and cold.. In addition to our usual weekly duties we were obliged to go through our weekly inspection. and Dress Parade in the afternoon: Monday was cold and not quite so pleasant as was Sunday: I attended to the drawing of our commissary stores.. At Eleven we had a drill of commis sioned and non commissioned officers drills in marching.. At nine Oclock in the morning there was a drill of the companies in manual of arms. and marching. In the afternoon at 3 O.clock we had another drill by companies.. and no Dress Parade: We do not water horses but once a day at present and that at noon. 123 Last night it commenced to snow and blow and this morning there were nearly three inches of snow: and a few emboldened by the prospect of sleighing harnessed up their sleighs and cutters and tried to enjoy the sleighing and at noon while watering our horses we saw several of them flying through the streets: This forenoon Col. Litchfield held a recitation in the Tactics at the drill room: and to night there is a drill of commissioned Officers in the School of the [trooper?]: The weather has moderated con siderable during the day: and it was thawing at sunset.. It is reported that Col. Smith. is in the city to night.. 124 Alexander Lowrie has received a furlough and will start for his home in Ohio to morrow morning.. Richardson will probably get either a furlough or a discharge soon. and return home; Old Uncle Jones will also be discharged soon: George. Strong from Niles came into camp last night bringing a box of provisions for Hollis. Cox and some others of the boys.. Lee Barracks Sunday January 25th 1863. Weather of all Sorts during the past week.. Rain and snow one day. snow and rain the next. mud ankle deep [illegible in original] and gaining fast.. Last night it froze and this morning the ground was quite hard. But before noon it was as muddy as ever again.. Col Mann thinking that we did not have enough to do. last night 125 ordered the horses watered twice a day again: So that we found ourselves this morning obliged to water our horses.. then divide them up in to squads. after which came our usual inspection of arms and bunks: the inspection this morning was of Sabres with which all Dress Parades and Guard mountings and guard duties are performed.. The horses were assigned to the men on Wednesday or Thursday morning last.. and the men now exhibit more of an enthusiastic zeal in seeing their horses well taken care of.. Thursday morning I was much surprised to see John Alexander in camp just as we were eating breakfast He still remains with us.. Yesterday afternoon Col Mann. had the companies all called out and read orders to the effect that as some of the soldiers while out on passes had conducted themselves in such a manner as to bring many complaints from citizens 126 Consequently no more passes would be given to any one and that all standing passes except those of the Sergeant Major Quartermaster and Commissary Sergeants and Orderlies and those good only between Revellie and Tattoo: This did not suit the ideas of many of the men. and they showed their disapprobation by getting up a regular mob and a large body of them broke Guard and went to the city: What antics were cut I do not know. but report says that Private March of Co D got drunk and while committing some abuses on a private house the owner came out and after suc ceeding in wresting his sword from him struck him over the head in flicting a wound from the effects of which it is said he died to day.. 127 Thursday morning I received two letters one from Nell. the other from Newton Stephens dated New Haven Ky.. Jan 18th and saying that the snow was then 15 inches deep with them. and on account of the severity of the weather roll call and Guard duties were dispensed with.. This seems quite a contrast to our mild and open weather and seems almost im possible: According to new regulations made by Capt Walker each Sergt is required to call the roll of his platoon and is responsible for his men. 128 Lee Barracks Monday January 26th 1863. No change in wind or weather of any importance. less frost and more mud than yesterday.. Sometime within the last two days Sergt Holton received directions from headquarters to leave on a recruit ing expedition: and he accordingly left about four P..M. today leaving his Sergt E.D. Cooke to perform.^ duties: Ed, does not like to perform them on account of some dissatisfaction: between O'Brien and Lang about arising from jealousy or some other cause from which grumblings and complaints issue: which seems to me altogether out of place; To day while the companies were doing stable duty at noon; fires broke out in the guard house: which con sumed it but did not communicate with the reading room owing to the united efforts of the guards and 129 other soldiers in camp. who kept put ting on water on the end nearest the guard house: It was at first suspected that the prisoners of whom there were five or six confined had set it on fire purpose ly: But it is Said by some that it was not as fire first broke out in a corner remote from the cells.. On account of the recent broil on Saturday night. Col Mann. has instituted a Provost Guard composed of one private from one each company: commanded by some officer unknown at the present time: Private Edward Brickle of our company is detailed on this duty: They are armed with the sabres. and their revolvers which were drawn for them today.. These revolvers are a [vere?] nice weapon and will I think be found the most service able arm with which we are furnished.. They are Colt Navy Size. six Shooters black finished. and we are also furnished with a good holster for each one; 130 Lee Barracks. Wednesday January 28th 1863. Yesterday was a most beautiful day. clear and pleasant. having almost no resemblance to the weather usual to this season of the year.. We did not water our horses in the morning but instead repaired our stables.. until eleven O.clock when all the “Commish” and “noncommish” of the regiment were required to drill until noon: After dinner we watered our horses. after that battalion drill and Dress Parade in the evening all “non commish” were required to meet at the Assembly room for a recitation in the tactics and theory of our drill: It is intended to carry on these recitations during the time we remain here; On Monday evening Capt Walker invited all the “non commish” of Co “A” to an Oyster Supper at Wells which we enjoyed very well.. 131 This morning the weather is again cold and lowry.. We are preparing to draw the saddles this morning preparatory to a drill each morning.. I wish the saddles could remain where they are while we remain here as we have all that we can take care of properly now.. Our bunks are full and no place is yet provided for keeping the saddles. and it is a query to me where we can keep them; Since the burning of the guard house Monday afternoon. Col Mann has felt as uneasy as a fish out of water fearing the quarters of the men might burn down. Barber and McNiel returned to camp last night. after having been reported as deserters for more than a month.. Charles Hopkins has deserted.. I think as he has not reported himself since Monday afternoon, 132 Lee Barracks Thursday January 29th 1863 After writing the preceeding pages we went to the stables and fitted each man when we could find to a saddle for his horse. By the time this was done it was dinner time. after which the horses were watered: No “Dress Parade' was held in the afternoon giving us a little more time to rest than was usual for us: I did not attend the recitation in the evening and indeed I do not know as there was any; The weather after 10 O'clock was very fine and clear the remainder of the day. I received a letter from Nell last evening enclosing I a dozen Postage Stamps.. To day the weather is cold and cloudy with now and then a flake of snow.. A drill on horseback was ordered this morning. afterwards. Col Mann called on our company, and I guess others of the regiment for a detail of Sixteen men. to drill preparatory 133 to a funeral escort for some mili tary scout celebrity. and it is under stood that this detail will stand in the company in readiness for any case of death that may occur in company or regiment. It is to be hoped that it may never be called to act for any of us: Sergt D OBrien and Corporals Graham and Brickel were detailed from our company to act upon this detail.. After these men were taken but few were left for drill mounted.. However the few that were left drilled under the instructions of Segt E. D Cooke for about two hours in mounting and dismounting and marching by file.. It is understood that this drill will be continued daily. hereafter 134 Lee Barracks Friday January 30th /63 Another day with its usual routine of duties is gone. and nothing of importance has yet taken place.. The weather has been cold and rather uncomfortable to those compelled to be out of doors.. We drilled on horseback this fore noon. each Sergt taking charge of his squad and drilling them simply in their positions and in keeping the proper distance from apart when in file.. Thinking I had done enough as duty sergt I fell back upon my position as commissary and did not go to water horses. at noon. The men of our company on funeral escort detail did not drill in their peculiar drill during the forenoon. but on horseback.. This afternoon they drilled and practiced a little on firing which was done exceedingly well. many saying it was done as well as could be done by those well 135 trained to the service. and earning great compliments from Col Mann who never fails to reward any such thing with profuse praises.. He yesterday morning praised the appearance of my stables. which I con sidered unworthy of the compliment.. Dress Parade was held this afternoon for the purpose of reading [orders?]. and sentences given by the late court martial.. Jack Jimison was sentenced to carry a stick of wood of no less than 30 lbs weight for two hours. John Conlin to carry an inverted flour barrel two hours his head protruding through the head of it which rested on his shoulders.. Allen.. Park. Chester Calvin and Madison Cox left camp last night without furlough and are supposed to have gone home: We all think they would come back if let alone.. 136 But Capt Walker has sent Sergt OBrien after them who will have the effect of driving them still farther away: Allen is one not to be driven into returning but if left quietly alone I have no doubt would return when his visit is finished It seems to me impartial and unjust to serve boys who have always done their duty in this manner and allow “roughs” like McNiel and others to do as they please. John Alexander left camp for home. also Royal Tuttle this mor ning. I can not beleive that John would entice any one away from their duty. But keeping the men so long in camp without pay or furlough will cause many more to take “French leave” It is understood by all that no more furloughs will be given our company. 137 Preaching is being held at the Assembly room this evening by Rev. Mr West who conducted services there some few weeks ago.. I might have gone but having a cold and the room not being very comfortable I con cluded not to do so: We had another recitation last evening under the instruction of Major Newcomb.e. But hereafter it will be conducted by Adjt [Doty?].. who is a first class Scholar and highly respected by all as an officer.. The school will be held four evenings in a week and will we hope be of great benefit to us: A few inches of snow fell last night. but not enough to make sleighing. It grows colder since sundown and we may get weather in February that will more than repay us for our pleasant weather ere this 138 Lee Barracks Saturday January 31st 1863. This is the last day of January and the month goes out much as it came in: Still the weather is some colder than was New Years proving that old winter has not lost all its rigor of former years.. The day is cloudy with a still W.N.W. breeze which whistles among the cracks and crevices of our quarters with much of its old tone formerly so familiar to our ears.. The usual routine of camp duties is not varied in the least.. The company is not out drilling. but I, being, until now, busily engaged in my duties as commissary I gave up my command to Anthony and remain ed in camp.. More of the boys took “French Furloughs” last night.. They are coming into quite common use just now.. Among the boys who left last 139 night are ..[illegible in original]. [illegible in original]. Bell linger. Fish. and [Hanney?]. and Belleng Brininstool.. Many of these are good boys. and those who have heretofore done their duty like men: but who have, been misled by evil minded men. until they have been led to take this step.. Many, and I think all of these, will return when they have visited long enough to satisfy them.. They are driven to this. only by the refusal of Col Mann to grant them furloughs.. and the delay in getting their pay: Among those who left. Thursday I had forgotten to mention James Davis who has not been seen since Thursday morning: Many from other compa nies are likewise deserting. and throw ing heavy work upon those remaining in camp.. 140 Lee Barracks. Sunday February 1st 1863 Another day is gone and Feb ruary is fairly inaugurated and fully established.. and right kingly has she taken the reign.. the day is a fair type of the usual days belong ing usually to this month.. This morning was cold but not showing many signs of a storm. We got through with our stable duties and inspection. in much better time than is usual.. We had hardly finished our inspection when the wind commenced blowing furiously and at first a few drops of rain which however soon turned into snow.. It soon snowed a perfect storm of snow and sleet.. and now there is quite a coat of snow..on the ground.. It looks rather good but it is not very comfortable out of doors. after all. The Guards are having an awful night for standing on their beats.. They will be brought in from 141 the lines and placed within the doors of the barracks to guard the fires.. I presume they will be placed on the lines again in the morning.. This morning after inspection Col Mann visited our quarters. and made us a speech..which was very good.. Last night Wm Henderson. Edward Brickle and George Matchett. deserted and left camp.. I was surprised to find George Matchett gone as I thought it much better of him: How many and [whom?] leave tonight it is impossible to conjecture.. Yet I doubt not there will be some one.. I stated the other evening that OBrien had gone after those who were first to leave. but it was not so.. This morning however Lieut Nicols with permission of Col Mann. gave him authority to arrest these men and leave of absence until the 9th of the present month.. 142 Harvey Reynolds also got a fur lough and both received free passes to go and return. and have both left camp this evening.. Capt Walker left camp for Detroit yesterday morning intending to return by way of Battle Creek and endeavor to bring back those men who left on Friday night.. Lieut Briggs also left for Battle Creek yesterday mor ning leaving Lieut Nicols in com mand of the company.. Lieut Nicols is gaining the good will and respect of his men very fast. by his faithful ness. and attention to their wants.. He has too the pow faculty of control better than either Briggs or Capt Walker.. It is now talked that we shall leave the state soon. and I wish it might be so.. for I think it would be the best thing that could be done for the regiment, the state, or the country.. 143 As long as we remain here just so long the men will desert: We now have ten companies on the ground and it is intended to form two battalions of these companies and send them to the field.. Nothing could suit me better than this. so far as being with the regiment is concerned.. Col Mann and Adjutant Doty just came to our door as they were visiting the quarters to see the con ditions of the lights and fires.. Some things about Col Mann are calculated to endear him to the men, and would do so were it not for qualities directly opposite to these and overthrowing all of his good ones.. Tom Smith to day was very drunk and in fact had been since last night and took it into his head to leave the regiment.. At dinnertime he shook hands with all the boys 144 and bade them good bye. and then walked out through the Sally Port. paying no attention to the orders of the Sentry to halt but walked straight toward the city.. Lieut Littlefield and some men went after him and brought him back to camp again. I was told that he came back crying like a baby.. He lost his pocket book in some manner last night. and under influence of that and his liquor was perfectly crazy. and it is a great wonder that he did not set the barracks on fire as he got candles and thrust them among the straw in his bunk. The boys have a good deal of fun with [Shrowder?] and others. and in playing practical jokes on each other some of which are not very pleasant.. But nearly every one takes it in good part and no broken noses or black eyes occur.. 145 Lee Barracks. Tuesday February 3d 1863.. The weather still remains cold and wintry: Yesterday was much the coldest day we have had this winter.. The winds blew a hurricane and those foolhardy enough to be out met with red ears and noses.. Sergt Major Loomis and Adjutant Doty froze their ears while mounting guard yesterday morning: After drawing my rations yesterday morning. I took our largest boiler to the city to get it fixed. and found it cold enough to suit my fancy: The battery was busy watering horses all the forenoon.. Our company watered theirs at noon. but as I was too busily em ployed in Commissary duties I could not go with them.. It was too cold for drill. but instead the men were employed in repairing the stables during the forenoon.. 146 While Newton Sparks was employed at Head Quarters as bugler yesterday morning: he heard the Col talking of a chance to raise a company of volunteers up in the Muskegon and Saginaw lumber country. and also offering a chance to any one in the regiment who would furnish the means and would take hold of it.. I suppose Newt considered the chances at first. During the afternoon he spoke about it to E D. Cooke. who offered to furnish means and help him in recruiting the company: the bargain was finally struck between him. and then they waited upon Col Mann. who promised them his assistance. and gave them an earnest by giving Newt authority to recruit and also giving him leave of absence from Camp for that purpose.. He then gave him free passes over stage and railroad routes. to allow him to travel.. 147 Newton made up his mind to go home a day or two to procure means.. and accordingly started for home this morning.. As many of our soldiers come back from town drunk every day. and often bring with them bottles of whiskey after the saloon keepers have been ordered not to sell them any more whiskey.. Col Mann has become out of patience with them. and desiring to find out the places where soldiers get their liquor. he desired Lieut Sessions of Co “D” Officer of Day to procure three men who could be relied upon and to send them to these saloons and buy all the liquor from them that they could.. Newt hearing the Col speaking of this saw fit to recommend me as one fit for that purpose: Accordingly I was selected and together with Sergt Mitchell of Co “D” and Private Gladden of the same was sent out. 148 Newt and I went out together and stopping at the “National” called for some brandy and drinking it left.. Just after leaving there we came across Mitchell and Gladden.. Gladden visited Moriarty's and got his bottle filled.. Mitchell and I then visited T.J. Gales and got some whiskey of which I drank sparingly.. We next visited Sargent's and procured the same there The next one on the route was the Rathbun House. at the saloon under which we procured the same. We next visited the “Hole in the Wall..” where we endeavored to induce the proprietor to “treat” but finding he would not do so Mitchell paid for the “drinks” all around.. The next was the “Franklin House” really the worst “hole” in town. but the proprietor.. “smelt a rat” and would not allow us any.. Finding we could not preval upon him to let us have any we left and next visited the “Farmers Home” where we procured the drinks and also got another bottle filled.. 149 After staying and carousing awhile we crossed the street and visited Klinger's at the Corner of Bridge and Canal Sts.. where we procured the drinks: We then went into the Saloon two doors south of “Klinger's” where we got the remaining bottle filled.. Gladden and myself long before this time had run short of funds.. and Mitchell thinking he had spent money enough and all agreeing that we had drank enough we quitted the field and returned to camp visiting on the way “Pop Corn Charlies” where we were treated by a citizen.. In reading this account some would think that we would have been by this time “pretty tight” to use the common term.. But fearing this result. we were careful not to drink all that we poured out each time.. and only enough to be able to swear as to what we drank at each place.. and therefore we returned to camp sober.. 150 Today has been a pleasant day with the exception of being a very cold one. The sky was clear. and the sun shone brightly.. yet the air was frosty and keen.. We attended our usual school under direction of our noble Adjutant this evening who has the faculty of making these recita tions interesting to all: After closing the school. he visited our quarters and read us orders and an address from Col. Mann. and also stated that there was now talk that the men now in the 9th regiment of Cavalry would be divided and put equally in the 7th and 8th regiments filling f both regiments.. and that we would perhaps go to the west or south west instead of to Washington 151 Lee Barracks Wednesday February 4. 1863.. To day.. has been much such a day as was yesterday clear but very cold: It was so cold that we have done nothing but what necessity absolutely required to be done: and I have not done even that.. not feeling very well I have not been to the stables since morning.. It is almost useless to continue writing this diary. as every day is like its preceding ones. the same dull routine of duties. the same amount of hard work to get men to perform any duties. nothing whatever to relieve us from the monotony of camp duties.. We get no papers to read. consequently hear nothing from the outer world except by letters from our friends. which, so far as I am favored have been very few for a long time past.. Plenty of rumors are afloat in camp concerning our future. and the manner in which we are to be disposed of.. 152 It is hoped by all that some arrangement may be made by which this regiment may be filled and sent to the field very soon.. It is said that Col Mann is away upon that business and is hoping to effect some arrangement with the Col of the 9th to induce him to unite his men with ours to a sufficient number to fill our regiment. It seems almost unjust to this regiment that Gov. Blair should have sanctioned the forming of the 8th and 9th after this one was organized: But it secured him political influence and votes. and also opposed Col Kellogg's efforts to raise his regiment.. Of what service I have we been to the government while we have been here.. None at all I venture to say.. 153 We have not be even been fitting ourselves for the field by drill or otherwise except being furnished with arms and equip ments.. We do not know as much to day of the movements of a body of troops to day as we did the day Botham left us.. Mann has taught us nothing of a soldiers duties except to care for our horses.. He has not even taught his men to obey him yet.. and never will so long as we remain here.. W.H.H.. Knight who has been away some days is reported to have returned to camp this evening.. Yesterday morning Wisner was put upon the Provost Guard in Brickle's place. and Mealoy was put on as a new man.. [Begin Scan 155] 154 An hour later: Capt Walker has returned to camp bringing with him Conlin Fish. Harvey. Brininstool and Beers; leaving Bellinger at home sick.. The boys seem to feel very well and are jolly over their return to camp.. I do not know what is to be done with them. I hope however nothing more will be done with them than. to deduct a sufficient sum from their wages. to punish them for their furloughs.. for which I can scarcely find the heart to blame them.. I have just received information that there would be no school this evening.. and we have nothing to do.. This diary may not be interesting to anyone. who may read it in future.. But they must recollect that it has afforded me employment for many hours that might have been more unprofitably employed.. 155 Lee Barracks. Thursday January February 5th /63 This has been slightly different from yesterday inasmuch as it has snowed nearly all day: and the prospects for sleigh ing are good. and I think no one will be sorry.. It is still quite cold though not so cold as yesterday: We did not drill, the stable duty being all we were required to perform.. The boys brought back by Capt. Walker were taken before Major New combe. during the forenoon for examina tion. John. Conlin was committed to jail to await trial for desertion: and the rest were given into Capt. Walker's custody on his taking the responsibility of their desertion and allowing him to put them upon any duty which he saw fit with the exception of guard duty.. 156 Capt. Walker thinking he could spare a few men consented to furlough until the Twelfth all whom he thought most deserved one.. Consequenlty he gave furloughs to Harvey Horsch. Brickell. Malchett. Dumphrey Trumble Jimison. and Ewing.. whose furloughs all expire on the Twelfth. Lee Barracks. Saturday February 7th 1863.. Yesterday and today have been slightly different from those preceding. Clear. Sunny. but cold.. Yesterday morning we were ordered out to drill on horseback. which drill was only a repetition of former ones.. The afternoon was occupied in attending to stable duties. and the evening to a lesson in the tactics.. At night Henderson and Brickell returned having been absent less than a week They said that George Matchett had enlisted in the regulars for five years.. They have been in Canada nearly all of the time since they left.. 157 This morning we were again ordered out to drill the drill being the same. Ed was taken to jail upon the order of Major Newcombe while Henderson who was undoubtedly the ringleader of the desertion and the cause of Eds. mis fortune is only placed in the custody of Capt Walker to await his trial.. Seven who deserted from Co “I” on Thursday night and captured some time yesterday were taken to jail this morning.. There must be at present nearly seventy or more soldiers belonging to this regiment now confined in jail.. Tom Smith who will promise to behave himself and quit drinking: last night because the Major would not give him a pass to go to the theater ran the guard. got drunk. went to the theater, and was caught by the patrol and put in the guard house.. this morning he got out of there some way or other. went to town and got his bitters and then returned and reported himself at the guard house again. He will now have to stand a court martial. 158 Lee Barracks Sunday February 8th 1863. The day has been slightly stormy since noon or a little before.. and rather cold.. Weekly inspection again this morning after which religious services were held at the assembly rooms at Eleven Oclock.. The funeral for which we have been preparing during the two weeks past took place this afternoon at the Episcopalian Church on Division St.. An escort of 12 men one Segt and Lieut Nichols from our Co. and others of the same number from “B.” “C” and “D.” attended and escorted the boy to the grave.. also an independent company of 24 from the city.. I was not able to attend as I did not feel very well and none of the com pany except those detailed as an escort went. Chester Calvin returned to camp last evening.. He did not bring much news form home. but said that Newt Harve and Bill OBrien would be here on Tuesday.. 159 Pitts Walling who has been in the hospital with the mumps returned to camp this morning.. nearly well but looking pretty plump in the face.. Sergt Major Wilkinson returned to camp last evening but will leave again tomorrow morning.. Every one seems to want to get rid of him even the Staff. officers are tired of having him around and Heaven knows if they have as much reason to find fault with him as First Sergts and Company officers have no one can wonder at it.. Loomis will fill his place while he is gone.. Services were held at the Assembly room this evening by the regimental Chaplain who is as yet unknown to me.. I did not attend as [Hienck?] is sick and under my care for the night and I could not leave him.. 160 Lee Barracks. [Grd Rap?] Monday. February 9th /63 Today has been a wet. stormy and disagreeable day. This morning I again went to the city on the same errand as on last Monday. I returned just before dinner.. and after eating that. I went with the company to water horses It rained hard all the time while we were going to water and back and the con sequence was we got wet.. As Anthony was not very well I took his place and assisted about feeding, not going the second time.. Anthony had quite a shake of the Ague after returning to the quarters. this afternoon After supper. the ditches at the stables being full of water the boys bailed them out with spades and boards. and they got them quite dry: Sergt Lang took it into his head this evening to have a little fun and started the report that Col Mann had returned bringing news that the 161 regiment would be filled up with negroes and that five hundred would be in camp next week.. Absurd as this report was it was repeated from one to another until within less than one hour whe it had spread over the entire camp and was beleived by many.. The part concerning the Cols return was plausible enough and would mislead almost any one. but that concerning the negroes was too much for any one of common sense to credit for a moment.. But the readiness with which it was received shows in what a state of mind the men's minds are.. Capt Walker told me this afternoon that a telegraphic dispatch was received this morning that we would receive one months pay on the Seventeenth of this month. He seemed to think there might be truth in this as I hope there may be, alhtough it will not help many. of us much.. as 13 dollars will not go a great ways with us 162 He also told me that if Billy. O.Brien returned tonight he would give me a furlough until the Sixteenth. and if he did not come until tomorrow evening he would then give me one. then until the same day.. Billy has not come. and when he does Capt may choose to change his mind.. I have been suffering this afternoon with m an inflam^ed eye which is rather weak to use about writing by candlelight. It is said that Whitcomb of Co “E” died at the hospital yesterday morning from inflammation on the lungs which at length settled on his brain causing his death.. Several men in one of the companies near the lower part of the barracks are sick with the mumps. which seem to be spreading considerably. But few cases of more malignant diseases are reported or known of.. in the regiment which I must say has been greatly favored thus far.. 163 Lee Barracks Thursday February 12th 1863 The weather for the past two days has been very pleasant.. Yesterday was clear sunny and warm.. today is not so warm nor so pleasant yet much so for this time of year.. Monday afternoon after returning from stable duty the company fell out with our rifles and fired a few rounds of blank cartridges.. Yesterday morning we were ordered out to practice target shooting with ball cartridges.. The target was placed about an hundred and fifty yards away and I think I can safely say that no ball entered the paper although many came very close to it.. This morning the company again went out to practice firing but with blank or ball cartirdges I do not know. Newt Sparks. W. OBrien. H L Reynolds. Allen Park and Madison Cox returned to camp bringing with them Mr Lee who brought with him his bass drum.. 164 It was their intention to have the remainder of the Buchanan Band follow provided that the Col would give them em ployment and good compensation: But he thinks that we will remain so short a time that it will not be profitable to have them come: consequently “Uncle Jim” will return home tomorrow. The Col ordered the Quartermaster this morning to pack up everything and be prepared to move at any time: I also heard Chas Pratt say that they were at work preparing to pack up.. This looks as though something towards leaving were to be done.. Col Mann has also ordered the rations to be used on our journey to be provided by the Commis sary.. The rations consist of Hard Bread. Crackers.. bacon. Ham. and Bologna Sausages.. Bully for the Sausages.. This afternoon the Col held a drill in the Sabre exercise. at which all the commissioned and non commissioned officers were ordered to be present: but I had “other business” and did not attend.. 165 Ed Harvey. Peter Horsch and Ed Dumphrey. have returned this evening. leaving Jimison, Trumble, Brickell. Marchett.. and Ewing to return yet.. I received a letter from John Cowles this afternoon dated at camp Dudley. New Orleans.. and giving an interesting account of a recent battle about 130 miles from New Orleans: where they whipped out the rebels. and destroyed an iron clad gunboat.. Dixie received a furlough this evening to go home until Monday next.. Mr Lee is amusing the soldiers this evening with an exhibition of his powers as a drummer. They all agree that he beats any one they have ever yet seen: drum: I wish the whole band would have come then we could have had music sounding like home once more.. I received a box of eatables from home by Newt Sparks last night which made me think of old times as the box containing it was the same that I used to carry my dinner in last winter to school.. 166 Lee Barracks Tuesday February 17th 1863 Returned to camp last evening from a short furlough and visit at home. Friday morning last we were ordered out to practice target shooting with our rifles after which. when I reached the camp. Ed. Cooke spoke to me and advised me if I intended going home to do so then as he thought I would have no opportunity afterwards.. I decided upon accepting his advice and acting upon it.. Accordingly I saw Capt Walker who gave me permission to go home: It was too late to get a furlough signed as orders were received during the forenoon to grant no more furloughs. But Capt Walker wrote an order detailing me to go on private business for himself and Major Newcombe signed I left camp just after dinner and walked as far as Kelloggville where I found a chance to ride to Chambers Corners.. 167 After riding a while with them I got a chance to ride faster and took advantage of this opportunity which took me nearly to Van Lew's and from there I walked nearly to Saunders when a team overtook me and I rode through to Chambers Corners After getting something to eat I began to look around for some one to take me to Kalamazoo. and after fooling away the time until after nine Oclock when I found some one to do so and reached Kalamazoo after two O'clock. The train going west reached there at 3.45 and I reached Buchanan at [illegible in original] next morning and home about 8.. Saturday evening I attended a party at Mr Stephens' where I met most of the young folks and spent a very good time: 168 It was expected when I went away that we should receive our pay Today. But it has been postponed from some cause or other unknown to us. News was received from Washington last evening that we should receive pay from enlistment until December 31st and those who have enlisted since then are to receive one months pay in advance. This is much better than was feared would be the case.. It is also thought that we will leave here soon.. Perhaps within the next two weeks. There has been some talk of sending the horses away this week still nothing is known positively as yet. concerning the intentions of the Government as relating to us.. While com eating breakfast at the Kalamazoo House yesterday mor ning I sat by the side of a Lieut. wearing the uniform of the 25th Infantry. We entered into conversation while at breakfast. and I afterwards found that he was coming through to the Rapids with 169 us and I found him quite an agreeable companion. as I think every one did.. His name was Chase and he belonged to Co “B..” I found that he knew many of my friends in that regiment.. He told us many things. of interest concerning our future life and of times he had seen and also gave us good advice to govern ourselves by: He left on the five O'clock train for the East intending to go as far as Ionia.. I heard yesterday from Jas Barney of Co “B” that private Safford of Co “B” had died I think on Thursday last.. His body was sent to Kalamazoo in charge of Smith of Co “B.” at Present regimental cook.. Capt. Warner of Co “B” came through on the train with us from Niles and passed Hollils. Matchett and myself through to Kalamazoo [free?]. Received a letter from Isom and Melinda this evening. 170 Col. Mann. Col. Litchfield. Col Howard and our Sergt. Major came this in last evening.. and it is thought that Col Howard will proceed to pay off the men as soon as possible. Lee Barracks Thursday February 19th 1863. Well at last the vanguard of the regiment is on the road to Washington.. Soon after breakfast and guard mounting yesterday morning we were ordered to fall in for pay. The first thing to be done was to sign the payrolls. which was done by 11 Oclock we then marched to the drill room where Col Howard sat ready to dispense “Green Backs” and joy to the boys who had long expected and waited for them.. As soon as the pay was received we were provided with a haversack to each man.. Twenty three men were detailed to go away with the horses and ordered to pack up everything immediately 171 Then I was ordered to draw six days rations for these men, have them cooked, two days packed in the haversacks and four in boxes.. The men were ordered to be ready by eight O'clock this morning and at that time the horses they commenced removing them from stables to depot where they were loaded on the cars: This morning it was understood that the ladies of the city would give us a dinner at camp. As I wanted to send home some money. Newt Sparks and I went to the city. did our business, and was returning to camp when we saw the regiment going down one of the streets and feeling a curiosity to know what it meant we followed them to Luce Hall where we found a nice collection of pictures which we were permitted to look at that and then returned to camp where about three O'clock we had a splendid dinner, got up by the ladies of the city.. The boys then left for the railroad and about six O'clock I heard them cheering loudly and lustily as they passed in sight of the old camp for the last time. 172 Sergt Holton returned to camp yesterday morning just in time for his pay.. and has left camp again tonight on special duty detailed by the Colonel. Sergt E. S. Lang has also gone in advance of the regiment to Washing ton on business for the regiment. Sergt OBrien is also from camps on special detail from the Colonel. Corporal Crook has gone home on furlough and will be back on Sunday night.. It is expected that the rest of us will leave here on Monday next.. and it is decided that we shall go to Washington: I sent 20 dollars to Father this morning by express leaving me about 27 dollars to carry with me.. I drew [illegible in original] as my pay 173 Lee Barracks Friday February 20th 1863 I take my pen in hand this evening to write my last words in this book. and the last of my journal from “Lee Barracks” We will leave here on Monday next but I shall have no time to continue this any longer as we shall be very busy after this time.. Commissary Sergt E.B. Crocker returned to camp this morning: and I immediately installed him in the position and took a holiday: But to begin with I will go back to last night Sergt Holton was detailed and left camp leaving instructions that E.D. Cooke. should act in his place during his absence. He did not return from his party last night at roll call and I there fore left the room open for him: This mor ning. I awoke at the usual hour and got my men awakened for roll call and then went to his room but could not find 174 him. No commissioned officer presented himself and feeling somewhat spunky I would call no roll until some one came the consequence is that the Revellie roll has not been called to day; I would not detail any guard without orders from the Capt to do so. and not until after eight Oclock did I hear from him and then was sent for to call at his ofice where I found him just getting up.. He requested me as the only Sergt on the ground to detail the guard and to mount them. I did so rather reluctantly and I think with not very good grace.. After instructing Crocker in his duties I went to the am brotype gallery and got two pictures taken: which I shall send home.. At noon I bought a certificate of our old peddler and Newt having done the same we procured a pass and went to the city to have them expressed home.. I had decided to send my valise home and so bought me a sachel in which I have packed all things which I 175 wanted to send home: Everything is being packed up in readiness to be moved tomorrow or Monday. guns. sabres and blankets are fast being stowed away and every thing seems lonesome and forsaken in the barracks.. But the best joke of the season is that Crocker and myself have got to stand guard at the doors of the barracks tonight.. I can not conceive the reasons for this step and have no right to question it. but it is “tough on the subscriber..” There; in turning over the preceding leaf I find I have skipped two pages.. But I must stop writing; and in leaving this book and the camp where the scenes. feelings and all occurrences have taken place feelings and thoughts come crowding into my mind which are strangely varied. Nearly all are rejoiced at the idea of leaving the state yet but few realize what we are leaving and what we shall see: after reaching. Washington 176 How many of us who are now leaving these comfortable quarters will ever return to their homes again. or who will find their last long home in that far away land.. Alas I dare not anticipate: But few will ever see Michigan again and no one knows whom it will be: perhaps it may be myself yet I can not but feel that I shall see home and friends again: I Shall renew my journal as soon as possible: perhaps while on our journey to Washington: As this will fall into the hands of those who will doubtless read it it.. I hope they will look upon the mistakes and uninteresting pages which it contains. with all allowances and realize that had not the moments passed in this. been so occupied they would have been occupied otherwise and perhaps not so well as in this way. So Good Bye to Lee Barracks and Michigan: Edwin R Havens