TRANSCRIPT OF DIARY of CAPTAIN WILBUR NELSON. (Year 1665) Transcript of Diary of CAPTAIN WILBUR NELSON. (On the fly-leaf appears: capt. Wilbur Nelson, Co. s. I02nd U. S. C. T.) , t "Take care of the pence and the pounds will take care of themselves." (The first 19 pages of the book are taken up with Mess Aooounts and private acoounts. Then follows the diary proper, written in some form of Pitman shorthand - prob(cid:173) ably Benjamin Pitman's system) (Some of the proper names of places and persons are dif(cid:173) fioult to deoipher--many of them are plainly written and present no obstacle to correct transcription) - GIB Sunday, January 1st, 1865. Lieutenant McKnight is very sick today with the smallpox and is crazy. I had to go up and hold him, so I was pretty thoroughly exposed to it. He was sent to the hospital in the afternpon. He tried to get out of his room. Monday, January 2nd. There is nothing of interest today. I worked hard on my mess and pay rolls. Tuesday, January 3d. I finished the payrolls this evening. Went to work in the Adjutant's office. Wednesday, January 4th. The Major and myself each made out the monthly return for the regiment. There is nothing new. Thursday, January 5th, 186,. I took a ride in the evening over to Captain Brattles (1), but did not find him at home. light evening, and I had a fine ride. It is a beautiful moon(cid:173) Friday, January 6th. The Major and I rode over to Captain Brattles. Had a good visit with him and he got us up a good dish of oysters and a cup of coffee. The Captain is a perfect gentleman. A part of General Sherman's forces are landing on this island. The Argo (1) came in with the mail, but it did not come up to the regiment today. Saturday, January 7th. The mail came in today. was from Theodore. evening. down to the Ferry; had a pleasant ride. I gnly ,got one letter, but that in the The telegraph operator and myself took a ride I wrote a letter to Theodore Sunday, January 8th. One of Captain Brattles' men was shot in the back this morning by the carelessness of one of the Company. It is thought that the wound will prove mortal. A Union prison(cid:173) er escaped into our lines from Charleston last night. He was tired and footsore, said there were many Union people even in Charleston. -1- Monday, January 9th. I rode to Beaufort (?) with Captain Montague in the after(cid:173) noon. It was rainy and unpleasant. Tuesday, January loth. I rode down with the Major in the afternoon. We went down to Ashley Bridge (?) to see a soldier of the Seventeenth Corps, who were camped just this side of there. rainy and windy today. Themail was received from the north, but I didn't get a letter. It was Wednesday, January 11, 1865. There is nothing new, and, strange, we got the mail again today. I was very much disappointed that there was no let(cid:173) ter for me. Thursday, January 12th. I rode to Beaufort this afternoon in company with a Captain of the 15th Iowa Regiment. The Seventeenth Corps moves to(cid:173) morros. I suppose they will cross at the Port Culee (?) Ferry. There may be some lively times tomorrow. Friday, January 13th. The 17th Corps of Sherman's Army marched past our camp this I suppose they will afternoon on their way to the Ferry. lay their pontoons tonight and commence crossine over, and then perhaps there will be a fight. Sherman's men appear gay and happy. They are a rough set of men, but good fighters. Saturday, January 14, 1865. General Sherman's Army laid their pontoons across the Cusaw (?) River at the Ferry and were crossing all night, and this morning we heard a few cannons in the direction of Pocataligo. The weather is pleasant. Sunday, January 15th. This is my 26th birthday. It is a quiet, pleasant Sunday. Monday, Janu-ary 16th. I wrote in the Adjutant's office. dull. It is rather cold and Tuesday, January 17th. There is ' nothing new today. The weather is quite cold. -2- Wednesday, January 18th. We ~t orders to move to Beaufort as soon as the teams ar(cid:173) rive to take our baggage. Thursday, January 19th, 1865. We marched in to our old camp at Beaufort this morning. got a letter from Cornelia and wrote one to her. menced to raining about noon and rained till night. It com(cid:173) I Friday, January 20th. I~ rained all day. We were waiting for a boat to transport us to some place. Saturday, January 21st. We did not move today; it was so rainy, but we got orders at night ~o move as soon as the rain stops. Sunday, January 22nd. We embarked on the steamer "Lesprague" sai~ed up to Boyd's Neck (?) by dark. (?) about noon, and It is raining. Monday, January 23, 1865. We remained on the steamer last night. Went ashore this I morning early, marching out about half a mile and went in(cid:173) , to camp. It cleared I' off today, but was rather cold at night. (We landed at Carter's Landing (?) Wednesday, January 25th. I was quite busy today, writing and fixing up the Company business. It is quite cold. Thursday, January 26th. I I made out my ordnance returns today. windy. There is comfort in a warm fire tod~y. It was cold and Friday, January 27, 1865. We got orders to be ready to march tomorrow morning at day(cid:173) light in light marohing order with five days' rations. I -3- Saturday, January 28th. We marched this morning about eight o'clock. Went one and one-half miles behind Pocataligo Camp at two o'clock. Commenced to make a breast-work. Sunday, January 29th. The men were busy today making rifle pits. Sherman's Army I has moved and the Fourth Division of the Seventeenth Corps Passed us in the afternoon. I Monday, January 30th. I went with my Company and picketed this afternoon about half a mile from camp. The weather is quite cold. Tuesday, January 31, 1865. I My Company was on picket until four o'clock afternoon, when we were relieved by Company K. Rations are rather scarce, all I had for supper was hard bread and coffee. Wednesday, February 1st. ~ We commenced Company drill in the manual of arms today. Everything is quiet here. Thursday, February 2nd. I was officer of the day and the duties were not very ardu(cid:173) ous. I also heard t from my ordnance returns for the second and third quarters I got some letters, one from Theodore. of 1864. They are all right with the exception of three ~I ammuni t ion packing boxe s whic h are charged to me for drop(cid:173) ;1 ping wi thout vouchers. 11 . ~ Friday, February 3d, 1865. There is nothing new today. I and my Lieutenants had a , shanty built with a fire-p~ace in it. It is a rainy day. Saturday, February 4th. I I rode to Blair's Landing (?) with the Quartermaster and Lieutenant Slate. We went for supplies. The distance is I about ten miles, which is a long ways to go for Commissary stores. I went on picket at night. Sunday, February 5th. II ~ I was on picket until four o'clock, when my Company was re(cid:173) lieved by ~ompany K. II -4- ------------~--------------------------------- - - Monday, February 6th. We received orders to be ready to march at eight o'clock in ', the morning. Sybil. They are well. I got a letter from Theodore and one from Tuesday, February 7th. We marched this morning as ordered last night; crossed the Combahee River at Salt Cager Bridge (?) and advanced up the railroad toward Charleston about three miles, and com~enced making rifle pits. Wednesday, February 8th. This forenoon I worked at tearing up the railroad with my Company. ,Thursday, February 9th. This morning at seven o'clock three Companies of the regi(cid:173) ment, one of which was mine, under command of the Major ' marched out on the River Road to Combahee Ferry. We met li the rebel cavalry at the bridge across Cokle (Gogul (?) ! Creek, and had a little skirmish with them. They opened ,I up on us with artillery and we fell back about three mile s and camped for the night. Friday, February loth. "I went on two scouting expeditions to the front, but saw nothing. About four o'clock afternoon three more Companies of the regiment came up with three pieces of artillery. We advanced to Gogul Creek (?) again, and camped. everting I went over to a plantation to find a horse, but did not find one . In the . Saturday, February 11th. We did not move today. The rebels appear to have a very staunch position on the other side of the creek. I went out with a party, to throw up a breast-work in the evening. There was a little cannonading on our left during the aft(cid:173) ernoon. II ,Sunday, February 12th. I worked all night last night and returned to camp at day(cid:173) light and went to sleep. After dark we fell back to the railroad three miles from Salt Cager Bridge (?), tearing up the bridges behind us • .., " ! _ J II .:L .. -5- Monday, February 13th. We remained in camp on the railroad today. About twenty contrabands run away from the rebels and came into our lines. I hired one of them for a servant, by the name of Jim, who was a slave of Captain Stoddard from Savannah. Tuesday, February 14th. We marched to Ashepoo Ferry (?) today, a distance of 13 miles, and camped after dark on the east side of the Ashe(cid:173) poo River. It rained all the afternoon and all night. I had to send my baggage around by the Combahee Ferry and lie out in the rain without any shelter. At Green Pond, three miles from Ashepoo Ferry we burned some houses; one of them had ammunition in it, and the explosion of the shells made some amusement for the men. Wednesday, February 15th. After dark I went across the river and picketed with my Company and Company "B". Thursday, February 16th. I was relieved by the 25th Ohio and went into camp this afternoon. Friday, February 17th. All quiet today. We had general inspection in the after(cid:173) noon. a very good appearance. Some of my men were barefoot. They did not present Saturday, February 18th. In camp. Nothing of importance. The weather is quite warm. Sunday, February 19, 1865. We had a sermon today by Chaplain Waring (?). At night we got official news that Charleston is evacuated by the reb(cid:173) els. There was cheering in our camps. Monday, February 20th. We marched at two otclock, P. M. today. Went to the Edisto River to camp. Tuesday, February 21st. We marched at eight o'clock this morning. Went to Wiltown(? ~ to draw rations, but there were none ther e. We went on -6- nine miles farther towards Charleston and camped after dark, very tired, having marched about 19 miles. Wednesday, February 22nd. We marched at eight o'clock this morning. My Company was sent two miles off the road to forage. We got a lot of po(cid:173) tatoes and pork. Had a very hard march, but caught up with the regiment just as they were going into camp for the night. Thursday, February 23, 1865. We marched at seven o'clock this morning and got to the Ashley River (?) opposite Charleston about noon. Found that the bridge was burned and we could not cross, so we went into camp on the south side of the Ashley River. Friday, February 24th. In camp we drew the rations at night which were issued three days ago, but the men did not suffer much for want of them, as there is enough to eat in the country, which they helped themselves to pretty freely. It rained hard in the afternoon. Saturday, February 25th. I helped Captain Montague make out his payrolls this after(cid:173) I got a letter from William and one from Theodore. noon. II Sunday, February 26th, 1865. II We received orders that we are to move to a position on Charleston Neck and go into camp, where rigid discipline will be enforced and drill instituted. Monday, February 27th. We got ready to march early in the morning, but did not move until about noon, when we went to the dock and took the boat for Charleston Landing, and marched to Charleston Neck. Went into camp near the entrenchments. Tuesday, February 28th. It rained all day •. We were mustered for pay by Colonel Chapman. We have six months pay due us now. Wednesday, March 1, 1865. II Today is cloudy and rainy. at four o'clock. I went on as officer of the day -7- Thursday, March 2nd. I was engaged in building a guard house. Was relieved by Captain Kelley at four o'clock P. M. Friday, March 3rd. I worked on the payrolls most of the day. pleasant after a long rain. It is clear and Saturday, March 4th. I Worked on payrolls again today. The mail came in; I got l one letter from Theodore and one from Sybil. They are well. I Sunday, March 5th. I finished the payrolls today and sent them in. They were the first done in the regiment. Monday, March 6, 1865. We got orders to pack and march down to the Atlantic wharf and take a boat for Savannah. We got to the dock about two o'clock and found that the boat sailed at noon that was to take us, so we marched back to camp. Tuesday, March 7th. We embarked with the right wing of our regiment on board the steamer "Coit" (?) at noon, and sailed for Savannah. We got to Hiltonhead in the evening, stopped a little and then went on by way of Skull Creek for Savannah. Wednesday, March 8th. We arrived at Savannah about noon today. We had to march up to camp in rear of the town where we found shanties all built for us, which have just been evacuated by some of Sherman's Army. Savannah is a very pleasant place. Thursday, March 9, 1865. II bury dead horses on the outskirts of the town. It was not I took charge of a detail of 120 men of the regiment to a very pleasant occupation. It rains hard this evening. Friday, March lOth. There was not much to do today. It is cloudy and rainy. Saturday, March 11th. The left wing of the regiment came up from Charleston this -8- morning. They brought some mail, in which I got one letter. Sunday, March 12th. I went and picketed this morning with 56 men on the Thunder~ bolt (?) Road, about a mile from camp. Had a very good place. It is warm and pleasant. Monday, March 13, 18G5. I was relieved this m~ning by Captain Merrill, and got back to camp about noon. Drew the issued clothing in the afternoon. Tuesday, March 14th. Nothing new today. Wednesday, March 15th. I was officer of the day in camp. It is warm and pleasant. I had a guard house built~ Thursday, March 16th. I was· relieved this morning by Captain Parker (Barker ?). I didn't do much today. Friday, March 17th. Captains MOntague, Parker and myself went to the theater this evening. The play was not very good. Saturday, March 18, 1865. Our Brigade was reviewed and inspected this afternoon by General Williams, Inspector General of the Army. We made a good appearance. Sunday, March 19th. General Williams inspected our camps today. pleasant day. It is a very Monday, March 20th. I rode some today, but that was about all. Tuesday, March 21st. I had charge of a party of 150 men. Worked on the entranch(cid:173) ments. It rained in the afternoon and broke up our work. -9- Wednesday, March 22nd. I went and picketed today with 56 men on the Thunderbolt I Road. Thursday, March 23rd, 1865. I was relieved by the Captain of the 54th this morning. Go til into camp about noon. Friday, March 24th. I was downtown in the evening with Duba (?) and McKnight. They took a game of billiards and we came home early. Saturday, March 25th. I was field officer of the day. line once, that was in the day-time. in the evening. I only visited the picket I was down to the city Sunday, March 26th. Holmes and I took a ride to the Catholic Cemetery in the forenoon. In the evening I walked down-town with Captain Kelley. We came back to camp rather late. Monday, March 27th, 1865. We have orders to be ready to move as soon as transporta(cid:173) tion arrives. Our destination is thought to be Georgetown. Tuesday, March 28th. The left wing of the regiment moved this afternoon. I went J to the theater in the evening. It rained all day very hard I Wednesday, March 29th. It is • rainy and dull today. which does not come. We are waiting for a boat I I I I I I I Thursday, ~arch 30th. I was officer of the day in camp. I I It is warm and pleasant. I Friday, March 31st I went to the theater this evening with Colonel Chapman and other officers of the regiment. Saturday, April 1, 1865. I visited the theater again this evening. Wilhelm Tell was -10- very poorly played. Sunday, April 2, 1865. I went to the Baptist church with Lieutenant Bryant (?) this evening and heard a good serman. It is a very pleasant day. Monday, April 3rd. I was regimental officer of the day. There is nothing new in camp. Tuesday, April 4th. I went to the theater again tonight. The play did not amount to much. Wednesday, April 5th. In camp, drilling all day. We are improving our time by in(cid:173) structing our men. I Thursday, April 6th, Drilling in camp as usual. It is pleasant and warm. '65. Friday, April 7th. We got orders to embark for Charleston, and we boarded the Steamer "Coit" (?) about ten o'clock. Saturday, April 8th. I we started this morning at sunrise and got to Beaufortabout noon. General Skelton (?) came aboard at three o'clock. We run down to st. Helena Sound and anchored for the night. Sunday, April 9th. We sailed at sunrise. Got to Charleston at noon, landed, and went up to our old camp. We are ordered to get ready to go up the Santee River to join General Potter in an ex(cid:173) pedi t ion. Monday, April 10, 1865. We were busy packing up our baggage and getting ready to move. We go in light marching order. Tuesday, April 11th. We moved at seven this morning, took the cars for sixteen miles, then marched six miles further and camped. -11- Wednesday, April 12th. We marched 23 miles today through a thinly sattled country. We saw a party of rebel scouts, who kept near us all day. Thursday, April 13th. We got to Nelson's Ferry about four o'clock and found a gunboat there. A small party of scouts fired a few shots at us, but hit no on e • Friday, April 14, 1865. We remained in camp at Nelson's Ferry today. One gunboat lies in the Santee River. In the evening three boats came down from ~right's Bluff. They put off six days' rations for us. Saturday, April 15th. Went to Wright's Bluff on the gunboat. The rebels fired a I few shots into us, but hit no one. Sunday, April 16th. I We marched about 22 miles today and camped near Manchester after dark. Monday, April 17th. We marched 25 miles today. Had a very hard march. We begin to feel anxious to join General Potter, and sent Lieutenant Bartlett (?) through to him. Tuesday, April 18, 1865. We marched at sunrise. About eight o'clock we came upon the rebel cavalry, and had a skirmish with them, in which we had one officer and five men wounded and one man killed. The rebels kept falling back and skirmished till afternoon, when they gave it up. Lieutenant Bartlett got through to General Potter's last night and Major Abe st (?) came to our relief with forty cavalry. We got through to General Pot(cid:173) ter's command after dark. Wednesday, April 19, 1865. We marched about 19 miles today, fighting all the way. Th~ rebels have about fifteen hundred men and three pieces of artillery. TbW had some good positions, but did not fight with much determination. We had one man killed and one ~ounded in our regiment. In the afternoon. I was in command of the rear guard -12- Thursday, April 20, 1865. I remained in camp today eight miles south of Sitsburg (?) The rebels came down and attacked our pickets. They had one man killed. We did not lose anyone. Friday, April 21st. We marched this morning at sunrise and marched about twenty miles. been concluded. We discharged our guns over the news, which I hope will prove true. At noon we heard by flag of truce that peace has Saturday, April 22nd. We marched about 20 miles today, past Wright's Bluff on the Santee River, and camped near Murrin's Ferry (?). Sunday, April 23rd. We marched somewhat over 20 miles. Heard the sad news of Lincoln's assassination. Monday, April 24th, 1865. Marched 25 miles today, and camped 22 miles from Georgetown. Tuesday, April 25th. We marched at sunrise. Got to Georgetown before sundown and went into camp. Over three hundred miles in fifteen days through a hostile country. Wednesday, April 26th. We were in camp resting at night. We got orders to be ready to march at a moment's notice. The flag at this post is at half-mast, and guns were fired on account of the death of President Lincoln. Thursday, April 27, 1865. I was regimental officer of the day. We commenced drilling and guard duty as usual. Friday, April 28th. I moved ~nto a house this afternoon. My baggage is all at I think we will move there soon, or Charleston. to some other place. I hope so-- at least this is a very dull old town. The weather is fine and pleasant. -13- Saturday, April 29th, 1865. We embarked on board the steamer "Loudlist lf (?) at noon and sailed for Charleston. Sunday, April 30th. We arrived at Charleston this morning at three o'clock,land(cid:173) ed, and went into camp on the fortifications near the Neck. We were mustered for pay at five in the afternoon. Monday, May 1st, 1865. I was busy making out muster rolls today. T~esday, May 2nd. I am busy writing today on the muster and payrolls. quite cool in the morning. General Sherman is at Hiltonhead and we hearad that General Jackson has surrendered his army to him. It was Wednesday, May 3rd. I was sick with a headache today and had to go to bed. Thursday, May 4th. I was appointed Assistant Commissary of sUbsistence on Brig(cid:173) adier General Hartwell's staff. We have marching orders again and will move the sixth. Friday, May 5th, 1865. I did do nothing today. Saturday, Hay 6th. I drew 12,500 rations for the Brigade and loaded them on the cars. Sunday, May 7th. I remained in Charleston to take charge on the train which does out tomorrow. The Brigade marched this morning. Monday, May 8th. I went to Summerville (?) today on the cars, got there about noon. Found the troops there. -14- Tuesday, May 9th. I was busy today getting roy business started. This is a pleasant place. We have a good storehouse. Wednesday, May 10, 1865. Nothing new today. Thursday, May 11th. I drew 24,000 rations today and brought them up from Charle s(cid:173) ton. Friday, May 12th. Nothing important today. Saturday, May 13th. The same as yesterday. Sunday, May 14th. Took a ride with Lieutenant Holmes. The day is warm and pleasant. Monday, May 15th. Nothing new today. It is warm and pleasant. Tuesday, May 16th. Nothing important. Wednesday, May 17th. I went to Charleston this evening to draw rations. Thursday, May 18th. I drew 15,000 rations today and took them up to ,Summerville. Friday, May 19th. We moved to Orangeburg today. Got there about dark. Saturday, May 20th. Nothing new today. -15- Sunday, May 21st. I went to Charleston. Got there about sundown. Monday, May 22, 1865. I drew 20,000 rations today and went up to Orangeburg with them. Tuesday, May 23rd. I was busy issuing rations to the troops today. The 25th Ohio went to Columbia. Wednesday, May 24th. General Hatch (?) came up today to see General Hartwell. Thursday, May 25th. Captain Merrill (Myrtle ?) came in to see me today. Gen(cid:173) eral Hatch left for Charleston this afternoon. Friday, May 26th. Nothing new. Saturday, May 27th, 1865. Nothing important today. I Sunday, May 28th. I started for Charleston today, but got to the railroad too I late for the cars. It is very warm today. Monday, May 29th. I went to Charleston today with Lieutenant Dubendorf (?). Idrew 20,000 rations. Tuesday, May 30th. I was in Charle st on all day today. Captain Montague came down from Orangeburg in the evening. Wednesday, May 31st. I came back to Orangeburg today. The cars run very slow. Thursday, June 1, 1865. I commenced making out my returns today for the month of MaYj . I -16- Friday, June 2, 1865. The people are somewhat disposed to make the best of mat(cid:173) ters. They are freeing their slaves and making bargains with them to work for pay. The south is well-beat. Saturday, June 3rd. I have lots of trouble to get rations up from the city. This is rather perplexing business. Sunday, June 4th. Today is warm and quiet; I didn't do much of anything. Monday, June 5, 1865. No rations came up for me today from Charleston as I expect(cid:173) ed, and it leaves us rather short. There is some complain(cid:173) ing, but not much. Tuesday, June 6th. I sent a letter to Theodore. Themail came in but I didn't get a letter in it. Wednesday, June 7th. Nothing new today; it is very warm. Thursday, June 8th. I had 20,000 rations come up from Charleston on the train and was quite busy getting them up to the storehouse. Friday, June 9, 1865. It is warm and showery today. There is not much that is new. Saturday, June 10, 1865. I got some beef cattle today for which I pay 8 cents a pound. The beef in this country is very poor. Sunday, June 11th. Today is very warm. Monday, June 12th. There is not much to do today. Tuesday, June 13th. Warm as usual. This is a lazy place. -17- I lounged around the office. ~ wednesday, June 14, 186~. The paymaster came up today from Charleston to payoff the troops. We have nine months pay due us now. Thursday, June 15th. I drew six months' pay this morning - $749.00 (124.83). Friday, June 16th. Today is very warm. in the office some. Saturday, June 17th. I wrote a letter to Neely and worked The paymaster paid off the 102nd Hegiment today. There was a shower as usual this afternoon. Sunday, June 18th. It is a warm, quiet day. not go to church. Monday, June 19, 1865. I didn't feel very well and did Nothing important today. General Hartwell went to Columbia this morning. Tuesday, June 20th. I drew three months' pay this evening" which pays me up to the first of this month. This makes $1 1 216.00 that I drew this pay-day, being nine months pay. (~155.67) Wednesday, June 21st. Nothing new today. Thursday, June 22nd. Lieutenant Southworth and myself went to Charleston today. I was taken sick with a fever and had to go to bed as soon as we got there. tans Bradley (?) and Parker were in to see me in the after(cid:173) noon. I put up at the Charleston hotel. Cap(cid:173) Friday, June 23rd, 1865. I was sick all day today; remained in bed. -18- Saturday, June 24th. I was much better today and walked about the streets. It is very warm. Sunday, June 25th. I went to the Baptist Church and heard the best sermon preached--a very good sermon. Monday, June 26th. Run around town, went to the theater at night, and heard the Campbells(?) play. They did not amount to much. Tu-esday, June 27th. I drew rations today and sent them up to the depot. Wednesday, June 28, 1865. I returned to Orangeburg on the train today. It is very warm. Thursday, June 29th. Nothing new. Friday, June 30th. Today, the troops were mustered for pay. Saturday, July 1st, 1865. ' ThiS is very warm weather. Sunday, July 2nd. I attended the Methodist Church this morning and heard a very good sermon. Monday, July 3rd. It is warm today. Tuesday, July 4th, 1865. This is a very quiet Fourth. We had a review in the evening which passed off first-rate. Wednesday, July 5thQ I had to work quite hard today as my clerk has gone to Charleston. -HI ... Thursday, July 6th. There is nothing new today. Friday, July 7th. I went to Charleston today to see about rations. Saturday, July 8th. Captain Parker, Duba and myself had quite a good time today. I There was a riot at night in the market. Sunday, July 9, 1865. I did not go to church today as I had some business at the Commissary that I had to attend to. Monday, July loth. I I took the cars and returned to Orangeburg today to take up some rations. Tuesday, July 11th. Nothing more than common. The day is very warm. I Wednesday, July 12th. I expected a large supply of rations today from Charleston, but that did not come. Rations are getting very short with us. ~ Thursday, July 13th, 1865. I My supplies came tonight on a special train. relief, as they are needed very much. It is a great I Friday, July 14th. Nothing in particular. Very warm and dry. Saturday, July 15th. I sent two of my men to Charleston for some supplies today. I Sunday, July 16th. I Very warm. Monday, July 17th. I did not go to church as I am not ve~y well. I Warm and dull. -20- I Wednesday, July 19th. Got more rations today. Am pretty well supplied now. Thursday, July 20th. Today is a busy day with us as we issue rations to the troops for the next ten days. Friday, July 21st. It is very warm today. the time. Took a ride in the evening on horseback as I do almost every day. I loafed about the house most of Saturday, July 22nd, 1865. I wrote a letter to Cornelia today, and that was about all I did. It is so warm, a person can't do much. Sunday, July 23rd. I went to the Presbyterian Church in the morning. Took din(cid:173) ner with Captain Kelley, and supper with Captain Bartlett. We had a fine shower in the afternoon. Monday, July 24th. Nothing special today. Tuesday, July 25th. I went to Charleston today to see about Commissary business. It was very warm riding on the cars. Wednesday, July 26, 1865. I remained in Charleston today. passed the forenoon with him. Saw Captain Jewitt (?) and Thursday, July 27th. I returned to Orangeburg today on the train. warm. I am to be relieved soon. It was very I find that the l02nd has orders to move tomorrow. Friday, July 28th. The regiment marched this morning. accounts. I remained to settle my Saturday, July 29th. It is warm today, I did not do much. -2ID- Sunday, July 30th. Nothing new today. Monday, July 31, 1865. I was relieved today by Lieutenant Andree and turned over my property to him. Tuesday, August 1st, 1865. I finished the transfer of my property today. Wednesday, August 2nd. I went to Charleston with Captain Parker. Thursday, August 3rd. We had a good time today. Rather a fast one. Friday, August 4th. We returned to Orangeburg today. It is awfully warm. I made a promise that I will not smoke for one month from today. Saturday, August 5, 1865. I worked on my Commissary returns today, taking a room in the hotel for that purpose. Sunday, August 6th, I Nothing new today. '65. Monday, August 7th. \ I worked busily today. I Tuesday, August 8th. I I started in company with Captain Parker to ment which is at Winsboro (?) this evening. ambulance and a span of mules. \ join the regi(cid:173) We have an Wednesday, August 9th. We arrived at Columbia about sun-down, and put up at the Shire House (?) Thursday, August 10, 1865. We took a hack for Winnsboro this evening, thirty miles from -22- this place. Arrived at 12 o'clock at night. Friday, August 11th. We found the regiment conveniently located in a pleasant place about 100 rods from town. They have received orders to prepare to muster out at once. Saturday, August 12th. I started for Charleston today; rode horse-back as far as Columbia. Sunday, August 13th. I rode to Orangeburg today. Distance from Columbia, 43 miles. It rained very hard about noon. Monday, August 14th, 1865. Took the cars to Charleston this morning; got in about 3 o'clock P. M., and transacted my business with Captain Rob(cid:173) inson. Tuesday, August 15th. Returned to Orangeburg on the cars and rode out 24 miles on the road to Columbia--put up at the Red Store. Wednesday, August 16th. I rode through to Winnsboro today, a distance of 47 miles. Got there at ten o'clock in the evening. Thursday, August 17th. In camp. Commenced work on the muster-out rolls. Friday, August 18th, 1865. Nothing new ~oday. Saturday, August 19th. Not much to do today; it is pleasant weather. Sunday, August 20th. Lieutenant Liber (?) and myself worked busily on the muster rolls today, if it is Sunday. civil life and not have to work Sunday. I hope we will soon be in -23- Monday, August 21st. Lieutent Liber and myself worked on the muster rolls today. We got two nearly completed. It is a very tedious job. Tuesday, August 22nd. Liber and I worked on the payrolls all day today. Wednesday, August 23rd. We worked on the rolls today; we got almost through with them. Thursday, August 24th. Liber and I finished up the rolls this morning. they will be right, so that we will not have to make them over again. I hope Friday, August 25th. I made my returns to the ---- auditor today, and mailed them. It is quite cool and pleasant. Saturday, August 26, 1865. I made out final statements of two men that died last sprin~. Major Montague, who has been home for thirty days came back I today and brought his wife as far as Orangeburg. He is ver~ much disappointed to find that the regiment is to be mus(cid:173) tered out of service. Sunday, August 21, 1865. I did not go to church today, but don't care much to go to church in this place. Monday, August 28, 1865. I am getting very tired of remaining in this place. we may get off soon. The weather is quite cool and pleasant. I hope Tuesday, August 29, 1865. Nothing new today. We are having dull times. Wednesday, August 30th. Nothing new. Thursday, August 31st. Colonel Clark, Captain Bennett, Sergeant Vincent and Lieu(cid:173) -24- tenant Southworth returned from leave of absence this even(cid:173) ing. I got a letter from Neely. Friday, September 1, 1865. We had a sword presentation this eveing. The officers of the regiment have bought a sord, a sash and belt. It was presented to General Chapman today before the regiment. September 2nd, 1865. We had a review today by General Chapman. In the evening some of the officers ~isited the editor of the paper here and advised him not to publish pieces against negro troops. Sunday, September 3rd. Nothing important today. Monday, September 4th. In the evening I went to town with three officers. We had rather a wild time. Tuesday, September 5th. I was put in arrest today with the officers that were out with me last night, by order of Major Montague. Wednesday, September 6, 1865. I ~was released from arrest today. We have orders to march tomorrow morning at five o'clock. Thursday, September 7th. Marched this morning at six. Went about 14 miles. It is quite warm. Friday, September 8th. Marched 17 miles today. ~assed through Columbia and camped one mile behind it. Saturday, September 9th. Crossed the ferry, two miles below Columbia and marched about ten miles. General Chapman and staff passed us in the evening on their way to Orangeburg. Sunday, September 10, 1865. Marched about 12 miles today. Camped at four o'clock P. M. -25- - --------- Monday, September 11th. Marohed 20 miles today; reaohed Orangeburg before sundown. Tuesday, September 12th. Remained in oamp today, waiting for the cars to take us to Charleston. Wednesday, September 13th. We took the cars this evening for Charleston. Thursday, September 14th. Arrived at Charleston about three o'clock this morning; marched to the wharf to take the boat for Mount Pleasant, where we went into camp. We have a very fine place here. Friday, September 15, 1865. I went over to the city this afternoon with Lieutenant Me ade (?). Saturday, September 16th. We drew the issued clothing to the men today. ing. It was rain(cid:173) Sunday, September 17th. Nothing important today. It is warm and pleasant. Monday, september 18th. Closed up my clothing book and posted the accounts. Tuesday, September 19th. The Steamer "Alhambra" (?) came in from New York thas aft(cid:173) ernoon. She looks as though she had seen rough times. Wednesday, September 20, 1865. We are working very busily today. We are to have our mus(cid:173) ter-out rolls finished by the 24th instant. Thursday, September 21st. I got a letter from Theodore. The folks are well, and are looking for me at home. -26- Friday, September 22nd. I Very busy today. Posted the clothing book and settled the accounts. Saturday, September 23rd. Busy writing as usual today. Sunday, September 24th. Worked today. not be compelled to work Sundays. I hope the time will soon come when we shall Monday, September 25th, 1865. writing busily. Tuesday, september 26th. We completed the roilils today. Wednesday, September 27th. We went over to the mustering office and had our rolls com(cid:173) pared today. Mine is the best set in the regiment. Thursday, September 28th. Today was appointed for the mustering out of the regiment, but some of the rolls were made out so badly that it is put off until tomorrow. Friday, September 29th. Went over to Charleston to help compare rolls. Saturday, September 30, 1865. The regiment was mustered out today. We are very glad to get out of the service. Sunday, October 1, 1861. Nothing to do today. Monday, October 2nd. We are waiting now for transportation toNew York. Tuesday, October 3rd. We took a boat ride today to Fort Sumter and Morris Island( ? ) -27- Wednesday, October 4th. Lounged around doing nothing. Thursday, October 5th. We had dress parade this evening and are to have two hours drill each day now. Friday, October 6, 1865. I had a severe cold and did not go on duty today. Saturday, October 7th. Nothing important today. Sunday, October 8th • . I visited Fort Sumter in company with some other officers of the regiment. Monday, October 9th. We went on board the steamer "Edward Everett tl ing, but did not sail. We lay in the harbor all night. (?) this even(cid:173) Tuesday, October lOth. We sailed today for New York. The sea was smooth and pleasant. Wednesday, October 11, 1865. We passed Hattaras (?) light house just at sundown today. The sea is smooth (blank) Thursday, October 12th. A heavy gale sprang up in the afternoon and we had to run into a Delaware breakwater at night. Friday, October 13th. We run up to New York Harbor in the evening, but did not go inside. Saturday, Ootober 14th. We landed at New York this morning, crossed over to Jersey City, and took the oars about three o'clock. -28- Sunday, October 15, '65. We passed through Elmira today about noon. Took dinner at Hornellsville (?) Monday, October 16. We changed cars at Dunkirk last night. Took breakfast at Erie this morning, dinner at Cleveland, and took the steam(cid:173) er "Cleveland City" for Detroit in the evening. Tuesday, October 17th. We had a pleasant trip last night and arrived in Detroit this morning. We ----- (blank) with a good breakfast at the Michigan Central depot. Then marched up to the barracks and went into camp. Tuesday, October 31st. I was paid off this evening and took the 8:30 train for home. Wednesday, November 1, 1865. I got to st. Johns this morning. Took a wagon for home, put up at Chapin's, six miles south of the Center (?), as it was raining very bad. Thursday, November 2, 1865. I reached home about noon today; found the folks well and glad to see me. Friday, November 3rd, 1865. I went to the Center and made arrangements to go into part- nership withMr. Shepherd (?) in his store, and commenced taking an inventory. I Saturday, November 4th. Finished taking the inventory at noon, and went home in the afternoon. Found William and his wife there. Sunday, November 5, 1865. I spent the day with Neely; had a pleasant time. Monday, November 6th. We dame to Ithaca (?) and commenced keeping store. my first experience this buSiness, and, of course, pretty green. Mr. Shepherd has gone to Detroit to goods. -29- This is I am get Tuesday, November 7th. I worked in the store today. trade. Wednesday, November 8th. It was rather a dull day for I did not do much today. Trade is very dull now. Thursday, November 9th. Nothing new today. The weather is very pleasant. Friday, November 10, 1865. The mail came in today. I got a letter from southworth. Saturday, November 11th. I came home last evening and went back to the Center this morning. I found Mr. Shepherd at home a~d we made up our minds not to go into partnership as we had intended to do, so I went home in the evening. Sunday, November 12th. I didn't do anything today. The weather is pleasant, set(cid:173) tled. Monday, November 13th. Made a short visit to Mr. Church's (?) today. married to Cornelia on the 22nd of this month. I am to be Tuesday, November 14th, 1865. I went to Alma today and talked with Mr. -----(blank) about going into business there. Wednesday, November 15th. I went to St. Louis today to see what the chances are for dOing business there. Thursday, November 16th. William threshing at Van's (?) today. today. It is very pleasant II Elaiday, November 17th. I did not do anything today. -30- Saturday, November 18th. I was at Williams' most all day today. pleasant. It is warm and Sunday, November 19, 1865. Nathan Church came home this morning. in t he afternoon. I went up to see him Monday, November 20th. I went to st. Louis and Alma in company with Mr. Church, Nathan and William. Tuesday, November2lst. I went to Ithaca with Nathan and made a bargain to buyout I Shepherd. Wednesday, November 22nd. I I was married this afternoon to Cornelia Church. The day was cloudy, and the weather cold. Thursday, November 23, 1865. Cornelia and I went over home today and stayed there. Friday, November 24th. Did nothing today in particular. Saturday, November 25th. Nathan and I went to the Center and made a bargain .to take 1fJlf. Shepherd's store. Sunday, Uovem ber 26th. went to st. Louis to the funeral of Mary Lou's, who died . Saturday • . [Monday, November 27th. I went to the Center today with Nathan, and we drew up the writings for the store and goods. T~esday, November 28th. I worked in the store today. Trade is very good. :~, • _ I. ~ • -31- Wednesday, November 29th. Worked in the store today. We traded about $100. evening I rode up home. In the Thursday, November 30th. Cornelia and I started to go to the Center on horseback, but it stormed so that we came back. Friday, December 1st. I went to the Center this morning with Theodore. Saturday, December 2nd. I went home this evening. It is rather warm. Sunday, December 3d, 1865. I stayed to lilr. Church's today. We did not go to meeting. Monday, December 4, 1865. I went to Ithaca today with Nathan, and he is going to De(cid:173) troit tomorrow to get goods. We were busy getting ready. Tuesday, December 5th. Worked in the store today. We had a great deal of trade. Wednesday, December 6th. Cornelia came down on horseback today. her in the evening. Trade was not so good today. Thursday, December 7, 1865. I went home with I remained at home today. The Vans (?) preach to the school house tonight, but I did not go. Friday, December 8th. I worked in the store today. The weather is pleasant and warm. Saturday, December 9th. Worked in the store; went home about three o'clock--had a headache. -:32- Sunday, December lOth. This is a pleasant day. Cornelia and I went to our house in the afternoon, and back toMr. Church's in the afternoon. Monday, December 11th. I went to Ithaca in the morning with Theodore. Tuesday, December 12, 1865. Worked in the store. but he didn't come. I looked for Nathan back from Detroit, Wednesday, December 13th. Nathan came home from Detroit this afternoon. H e has bought about $1,200 worth of goods. We went up home in the even(cid:173) ing. Thursday, December 14th. Nathan and I came down to the Center this morning. Friday, December 15th. We commenced taking an inventory of Mr. Shepherd's stock of I goods preparatory to taking possession. Satu~day, December 16th. We worked busily today, but did not get through taking the inventory. Sunday, December 17, 1865. Nathan and I went home this morning. Monday, December 18th. I got down to the store this morning about eleven o'clock. Found Nathan trading busily. Tuesday, December 19th. Worked in the store. Wednesday, December 20th. Cornelia moved down this morning, and we commenced house(cid:173) keeping. ,~ J -33- Thursday, December 21st. Nothing new today. It is warm and pleasant. Friday, December 22, 1865. Nothing particular. Saturday, December 23rd. This was a busy day with us. We traded about one hundred dollars. Sunday, December 24th. We went to church in the evening. Heard Luther Crosby preach. Monday, December 25th. This Merry Christmas Nathan went to Alma in the evening. I and Neely stayed at home. Tuesday, December 26th. This is a Wednesday, December 27th, 1865. Nothing particular today. It is warm and pleasant. 28th. I rode to st. Johns on horseback this afternoon, getting there about ten in the evening. 29th. I took the cars for Detroit got to Detroit about noon. amounting to ten or fifteen in the evening for home. this morning about two o'clock; Purchased a bill of goods, hundred dollars. Took the cars 30th. I rode home this forenoon; it is quite cold. 31st. This oloses up the year 1865. ful year to me. It has been quite an event(cid:173) (T H E END) -34-