1863 February 13 New Bern, N.C.

[from the diary of Jesse Calvin Spaulding, Co. F., 25th Massachusetts]

Friday
Feb 13
Did not drill to-day.  Have felt very un-
easy and want to be at  home.  Made
out Thompsons descriptive list as he is going to the
hospital.   Phineas has been putting up a cookhouse
It has been pleasant to-day.  this evening Frank
Adams has been in here and we have been talking
of home

MSS 11293

1863 February 13 camp near Falmouth

[from the diary of Captain Jonathan B. Hager, 14th U. S. Regulars, returning from mustering duty]

Feby 13  I was glad to see the officers nearly all of
               whom I had not seen since last summer.
               I found myself the senior officer & of course will
               assume the command of the regiment.

MSS 9044

1863 February 13 Dumfries, Va.

                                   Dumfries, Virginia
                                      Feb. 13th 1863
Dear Mother
                             Your kind and wel-
come letter came safely to hand yester
day and I thank you for it.  I was
truly glad to learn that you were well
and prospering at home.  My health
remains good and I do not think it
will change as camp life seems to
agree with me.  I wrote you a letter
but a few days ago and I have not
much news to write you now none
of importance only we received our
pay yesterday for two months $28 for
me. – I  have nearly Six months due
me but could only get two of them
We are promised pay again some time
in March.  I have nearly fifty dollars
that I can send you, and you can
get it by going to Lanark and pay-
ing Expressage.  Perhaps I shall buy
some Boots and clothes so that I cannot
send you more than fi forty dollars
I shall send you all I can.  I want
you to pay Shimer and Gregory some
if you can possibly spare it.——–

[page 2]
The Col. says that we will
go to Washington soon to do
Provo – guard duty If we do
then I shall get my mail
regularly and perhaps we will
have easier times  I hope so
any how.  Our Company has
been detailed to go to Alexandria
or Washington to get some extra
horses for our Regiment.  We start
to-morrow morning at 8 oclock
and will go up the Potomac on a boat
and probably will be gone for sever-
al days.  After we return I will
write you again.  The Postage Currency
is taken in place of silver in all
cases and for any thing   We use
it as change.  Believe me Mother
Your Affectionate Son
W. H. Redman
Mrs. Catarine Redman
Please Write Soon
No Sale Mother- – No Sae  It will be
the beginning of a separation of the family
                               W.H.R

[In right hand margin of page 2]
Mother I want to know whether you ever received a likeness
that I sent you from Wmsport?
dont forget to write me

William Henry Redman, Co. C., 12th Illinois Cavalry

MSS 7415

1863 Feby 13-15 Mississippi River

               Mississippi river
                   Feby 13th 1863
My Dear Parents
                    We have at last
reached the River of rivers
Last Monday afternoon
took on board Pilot about
forty five miles from the south
West Pass and about mid=
night anchored out side the
bar.
    Providence has favored us
wonderfully.   we only had one
severe gale.  The bunks on the
Starboard side of the ship were
broken down, but fortunately no
one was hurt very bad.
The vessel shipped several seas.
I was in the Second mate’s
State-room in the lower berth
the water came in but did

[page 2]
not not wet me.  I thought
however that it was best to
make tracks & I crawled
into the main cabin and
lay upon the floor until
day light & then after the
sun had risen the scene
was grand beyond description.
The saddest part of our
voyage was after we had passed
great Abaco Island when we
had to bury one of our comrades
at sea, and after we got
into the Gulf we had to bury an
other. one has died since we
started up the river and was
carried ashore this morning
about five (5) miles above fort
Philip. we have none very
sick now.
  Now for our voyage up the
river.  Tuesday at sundown a

[page 3]
tug took us over the bar and
we anchored about two miles
up the channel of the river.
Wednesday morning cool and
pleasant a boat came along
side and I was glad to
see Geo. Smith, he had come
down from Ft. Philip 35 miles
up river, to get Birney, they
had heard that we were on
the bar and could not get
off.  Thursday morning very
pleasant and warm, the
tug fastened to us an
we steamed slowly up the
river. got to Ft. Philip last
night about dark, five miles
above the Forts, we came to
anchor in quarantine this
morning the medical officer
came on board ad about
8 oclock we again got under

[page 4]
way, the day has been pleasant
but rather cool.  we have seen
the remains of five fats &
wrecks of steamers used &
destroyed at the taking of the
Forts.  we have passed former
plantations to-day, could see
them at work gathering the
came have passed some splendid
orange orchards could see the
oranges on the trees we go
so close to the bank that
we can smell their fragrance-
a boat came alongside
loaded with oranges. they were
the best I ever tasted.
this evening we have anchored
close in shore as it is very
foggy.  the tug has a ship
on each side & a schooner
behind so you see we do

[page 5]
not make very rapid progress.
the other ship has part of a
Regt. that were wrecked on
Florada Reefs. no lives were lost
I believe.
   Saturday Feby 14 1863
We started this morning again
and have been slowly making
our way up river, expect if
nothing happens to reach the
city about nine o’clock
this evening. we have passed
some very large plantations
today, the negroes appear to
be loyal & glad to see us
They jump up & down clap
their hands, & roll over.
We ran so close to them to-day
that a negro threw some
oranges on board.
It will be thirty five days
to morrow that we have

[page 6]
been aboard this craft.
I have got enough of the
sea. hoe we shall go
home by land.
 Sunday 15th inst
   This has been a pleasant
day, we are anchored opposite
the lower part of the city, the
Col. has gone ashore Y we
shall probably know our destination
to night or n the morning.
This afternoon Elder Blokes came
on Board.  he came up the
river with B[?] & two or
three officers that went ashore at
the Forts.
Evening it rains quite hard, the
Col. has come on board.  we go
ashore in the morning and go
into U.S. Barracks to recruit a
while & then go up river
this Regt. is assigned to

[page 7]
Nickerson’s Brigade which is
this side of Baton Rouge the
Col. did not remember the
name of the place.
The mail leaves  here to
morrow at 4 o’clock P.M.
and one is expected to arrive
You must write every week.
for the mail comes quite
regular.
  I will write you a letter
George soon, you must consider
this as partly your own
You can write often & it will
be a good exercise for you
   You direct to
       New Orleans
24th Regt
                   Banks Expedition
                  Yours Truly
                    C.P.M.

Charles Plummer Morrill,  24th Maine

MSS 11031

1863 February 13 Norfolk, Va.

             Camp 7th New York Battery
                   Norfolk, Va. F 13th 1863

                         My Dear Wife
Yours of the 8th received and perused
And as there is not time like the
present for improveing opportunity
I have embraced it And although
there is not much News to write
to you in regards to the war Yet I
think I can make out a Letter
of City doings For the last 3 or 4 weeks
more or less every Night we are startled
from our slumber by the ringing of
Bells and the whole firmament lit up
as if in one Blaze of Fire This of
course accounts for the Bells ringing
soon we told that a large Fire
is raging in the City – and that it
is the work of the Incendiary
Night before last 10 Buildings where[sic]

[page 2]
laid in ashes  Last night again another
the particulars I have not yet heard
This is what the Secesh call Lincoln
work  But my idea is that this
property is owned by the Secesh
and heavily insured at the North
for ever and above its value they
then set fire to it to obtain the
insurance  Two of our Boys have
Deserted us and gone over to the
Rebs their names are Caleb Bush
of Dutchess County and one S Kelley
one we have heard from He is in
Fredericksburgh in the secesh army
In a few Days Rufus H King will
be in power then may we expect
something new The Weather is
again growing Cold  Alas what
changes we have seen one Day very
warm the next more than cold
well never mind warm weather

[page 3]
for us will come soon enough
and some how or other I dread
it  All is Quiet at Suffolk as far
as we can learn But the most of
our expedition are [centered?] now
on Savannah & Charleston if they
fall then may we expect something
else soon Keep me posted if Jim
goes to the C[?] let me know
the full particulars As yet I
know have had no opportunity
of getting my picture taken when I
do you shall know Remember me
to mother Father and the rest of
my friends  My Love to you and
my boy take good care of yourself
and him  Your Loving Husband
‘                         Edward Shepard
when the 19 regt get
to Fortress Monroe I
intend visiting them

[letter written for the barely literate Sheppard of the 7th New York Light Artillery by another soldier]

MSS 12631

1863 February 14-August 16 Heed 91st Ohio 13406

1863 Diary of Captain Zachariah Heed, 91st   Regiment, Ohio Infantry  13406

[This 1863 diary is the first of two diaries by Captain Heed.  It measures 3 ¾” X 5 ¾” and is covered in black leather.  It is written in ink on pages with the dates pre-printed. The leather cover is broken at the spine. Pages are loose from the spine.  Fayetteville, Virginia, referred to below, is now in West Virginia, twenty miles north of Beckley, on Rt. #19.  See the list of  names mentioned and transcription notes at the end of the diary.]

2.
Fayetteville Va, Friday Morning.  Weather cold, twenty eight years old to day, a grand Dinner at my Quarters to day.  Evening weather Still cold, with Snow.  [Jan. 2nd is Heed’s twenty-eighth birthday.]

3.
Fayetteville Va, Saturday morning.  Weather Some warmer than yesterday.  Snow melting Some.  Dress parade to day   the first-time for Several Days.

JANUARY 4.
Fayetteville, Va. Sunday morning, weather cold.  Entered my Duties as Field Officer, of the Day, bad day for riding, visited the Pickets twice in the Day, and once at Night.

5.
Fayetteville Va.  Monday morning, weather cold.  Some more Snow Blowing in my Quarters through the roof, could not Sleep much during the night on account of the Snow.

6.
Fayetteville Va.  Tuesday morning, weather cold   more Snow, looks Something like rain,  Afternoon, Slight rain, weather moderating.
JANUARY 7.
Fayetteville Va.  Wednesday morning.  Snow is a melting fast, weather rather warm, Everything quiet in Camp.  Afternoon getting Some Colder, the wind a raising. 9 oclock P.M. very Dark.

8.
Fayetteville Va, Thursday morning.  weather getting Still colder.  Snow all gone.  Enterd on my Duty as Regimental Officer of the Day, in camp.  Everything quiet, 12 oclock P.M. Very Dark, & Cold.

9.
Fayetteville, Va.  Friday morning, weather very cold, with wind a blowing Strong.  Afternoon wind has ceased blowing, 9 oclock P.M. Dark.

JANUARY 10.
Fayetteville, Va.  Saturday morning, weather Some warmer, than yesterday, received Calmet Moore’s Discharge papers, Afternoon, Signs of snow, 9 oclock P.M. quite Dark.

11.
Fayetteville, Va.  Sunday morning, weather damp.  Signs of Snow or Rain, have made out Calmet Moore’s Discharge papers.  Afternoon Some Snow   8 oclock P.M. Still Snowing.

12.
Fayetteville, Va.  Monday morning.  Snow Some four or five Inches, on the ground    Blowed in my quarters all Night.  6 P.M.  Stoped Snowing

JANUARY 13.
Fayetteville, Va.  Tuesday morning, weather  moderating.  Rumord in camp we will be attacked here before long.  Afternoon Reported we will have an attack to Night.  9 oclock P.M.  Artillery in motion.

14.
Fayetteville, Va.  Wednesday morning.  no attack last Night, everything on the qui vive in camp   Snow melting Slowly, 2. P.M. things quiet in camp.  6 P.M. another report the Rebs are advancing   10. oclock P.M. all quiet

February begins here:

14.
Charleston Va.  Saturday morning, weather mild.  Col J. A. Turley, before the military Examining Board.  mud getting still deeper, Afternoon Rain, trial of Provost Marshall’s between John Thaxton & Ben Murphy, on Seccission proclivities. [“Murphy” is added in pencil.]

15.
Charleston Va, Sunday, morning, been raining all night, River on the rise, Dr. E. C. Kreider, Started for Lancaster Ohio 8 ½ P.M.   Clear & cold, Freezeing.  not well..

FEBRUARY 16.
Charleston Va.  Monday morning, clear & cold, not very well this morning                         
3 oclock P.M. Received from Col White 12th O.V.I. four hundred and Thirty Dollars, to hand to S. M. Barrett, Sutler of 12th O.V.I. 8 ½ oclock P.M. Sky cloudy

17.
Charleston Va.  Tuesday morning.  Raining, five men brought from the Nei[gh]borhood of Buffalo, as Hostages, for Deputy Sheriff of Putnam County   Captured by the Rebels.  2 oclock P.M. Raining   8 ½ oclock P.M. Still Raining

18.
Charleston Va.  Wednesday morning, Met Major Cowan Paymaster, out of funds   E.P. Stout, Sutler of 91st O.V.I. on his road to Cincinnati   Raining, mud one foot on the Streets, a Slush.

FEBRUARY 19.
Charleston Va.  Thursday morning.  cloudy and muddy, Served on a court Martial, trying Major E.M. Carey, 2 oclock.  Sun Shining 6 oclock P.M. met Aelin Colvin, on his road Home.  Discharged.

20.
Charleston Va   Friday morning.  Raining.  Met Huchinson on his road to Pallissolis [or “Pallifolis”], 2 oclock P.M.   turning cold.  Paitt 8 oclock P.M. Ar[r]ived here from Charleston at 6 oclock P.M.

21.
Piatt Va   Saturday morning, cold & cloudy   2 oclock P.M. Start for camp.  Carrelton Va 10 oclock Foggy, boat cannot run,  11 oclock P.M. Snowing, lay up for the night.

FEBRUARY 22.
Carrelton Va.  Sunday morning, cold and snowing.  Start this morning for Fayetteville on Victor No. 2.  Loop Creek, 10 oclock, A.M.   reach Fayetteville at 5. P.M.   8 oclock P.M. returned from Dr. J. B. Warwick’s.  Cold and cloudy.  Snow.

23.
Fayetteville Va.  Monday morning, cold & cloudy, was visited by Dr. J. B. Warwick, 1 oclock P.M. cold and windy.  Lieut Stroup and Kisler [?]   Start home tomorrow,  12 ½ oclock wind blowing Cold.  Sky clear.
24.
[Note that on this date, 24 Feb. 1863, Heed begins calling his location West Virginia.  West Virginia officially entered the Union as the 35th state on June 20, 1863.]
Fayetteville, W. Va. Tuesday morning, cloudy and mild.  Lieut W. S. Underwood.  Started for Home, Snow melting   8 ½ oclock P.M. Raining.  not very well

FEBRUARY 25.
Fayettevile W Va, Wednesday morning.  Raining, Lieut W. S. Underwood’s Resignation acceptance came in the mail, 2 oclock P.M.  Ceased raining, 6 oclock P.M. not well retire to Bed

26.
Fayetteville W Va.  Thursday morning, Raining been Raining all night   feel better this morning    2 oclock P.M. receive new Arms.  Springfeild Rifled musket. Raining 8 Oclock P.M.   Sky clear, not well, retire to bed Sick

27.
Fayetteville W. Va.  Friday morning.  Sun Shining.  return Austrian Rifled Muskets, not well to day.  8 oclock P.M. clear and wind blowing  retire to bed   Some better

February 28.
Fayetteville W Va.  Saturday morning.  muster for Pay, two months pay due Regt to day.  wind blowing cold,  2 oclock P.M Still cold   this month going out very rough.  8 oclock P.M. cold.

29.
I have not received any pay from the Gover[n]ment, Since I have been in the Service.  I Shall Rec[c]omend 2nd. Lt. J. M. White, to be Promoted to be 1st. Lt. of Co. A. and Orderly W. A. Donohoe, to be 2nd Lt. of Co. G.  this is to fill the vacancies Occasioned by the Resignation of Lt. Underwood.  I am Sorry to part with him   he is a good Officer.

MARCH 1.
Fayetteville W Va. Sunday morning.  weather very cold.  getting cloudy.  Everything quiet in camp.  2 oclock P.M.  com[m]encing to Snow. Joe  Chaney brought me Some Eggs, from Cassidays   8 oclock P.M. moderating

2.
Fayetteville W Va.  Monday morning.  cloudy and quite pleasaent, Death in the 12th Regt O.V.I.   on Committee of Thanks to Gov Tod, for New Arms.  2 oclock P.M. Sun Shining quite warm, 8 oclock P.M. Cloudy with Snow.

3.
Fayetteville W Va.  Tuesday morning, cloudy & Snow, another Death in the 12th Regt O.V. I.   2 P.M. more Snow falling, 7 oclock P.M. Snow & wind   not very well, retire early.

MARCH 4.
Fayetteville, W Va.  Wednesday morning.  Snow two Inches on the ground.  made out final Statement and Description List of Aaron Whaley, who Died in Hospital at Gallipole’s Ohio.  Received my Dress Suit from Home,  Seven months in Service to day

5.
Fayetteville W Va.  Thursday morning, clear and rather warm.  Regiment Shooting Target.  Co. G beat all of the Companies Shooting, as we always have done.  2 oclock P.M. Sun Shining.  8 oclock P.M. Clouds looks like Rain.

6.
Fayetteville W Va.  Friday morning, Raining, been Raining Since 12 oclock P.M.   2 oclock P.M. cold and Raining.  9 ¼ P.M. getting cold.  not very well.  heard Paymaster was coming

MARCH 7.
Fayetteville W Va.  Saturday morning, Raining and mud[d]y.  George A. Stockam, a member of my Company, Died in Regimental Hospital, 2 oclock P.M.  Still Raining.  Samuel M. Wiles very Sick in Hospital, 8 oclock P.M. Raining.

8.
Fayetteville W. Va, Sunday morning, clear and warm,  Sent the Deceased body of George A. Stockam’s Home, in charge of Mr Hughes, of Portsmouth, O, 2 oclock P.M. warm Sun Shining, took an Inventory of George A. Stockam’s Effects, 7 oclock P.M. Raining.

9.
Fayetteville W Va, Monday morning.  cold and Raining, been Raining and Snowing all Night, 12 oclock A.M. clear and cold.  4 oclock P.M. clear and cold.  8 oclock P.M. cold & clear, 12½ P.M. cold & cloudy

MARCH 10.
Fayetteville W. Va.  Tuesday morning 8 oclock.  Snow one and a half Inch on the ground.  10 oclock A.M. snow three Inches on grou[n]d.  12 oclock A.M. cold & Raining  2 oclock P.M. moderating   5 oclock P.M. Still Raining.  10½ P.M.  Raining hard.

11.
Fayetteville West Va.  Wendesday  7 oclock A.M. clear & cold.  been Snowing, during the Night.  10 oclock A.M.  Sun a shining, 2 oclock P.M. cold and Snowing, 5 oclock. P.M. cold and windy.  8 oclock P.M.  cold and freezing. not very well.  retire to bed early,

12.
Fayetteville West Va.  Thursday 7 oclock A.M. cold and windy.  Snow disappeared.  feel Some better this morning.  9¼ A.M. Snowing pretty freely.  6.P.M. cold and windy.  9½ oclock P.M. cold and Snowing.

MARCH 13.
Fayetteville West Va.  Friday  7 oclock A.M. very cold and windy.  Mejors[?], Brill, James, and Laughlin, arrived here from Ohio, on a visit to Some of my Company.  6 oclock Still cold.  10 oclock P.M. getting Still colder.  Retire to bed very cold.

14.
Fayetteville West Va.  Saturday.  6 oclock A.M. clear and cold.  Making out quarterly Returns of clothing, to Dec 31st 1862.  11 oclock A.M. getting warm.  2 P.M. quite warm, was paid a visit by Lieut Merry of the 34th  O.V. I.  10 oclock P.M. clear and quite warm.

15.
Fayetteville West Va.  Sunday, 6 oclock A.M. cloudy and warm.  10 oclock A.M. Received orders to pack all camp and Garrison equipage, ready for a move.  1½ oclock P.M. Start for Gauley, Roads Muddy   Camp Fenwick.  6 oclock P.M. Raining

MARCH 16.
Camp Fenwick Va.  Monday 5 oclock A.M.  cloudy and warm, been Raining during the Night   Will Start for Gauley as Soon as we get Breakfast, eat Supper, with Lieut White at Mr E.B. Lawrences, last Night  Camp Gauley, Va, 11½  oclock A.M. found better quarters than we left

17.
Camp Gauley West Va.  Tuesday   6 oclock A.M.  clear and warm.  8½ oclock A.M.  Enter on my Duties as Regimental Officer of the Day.  Visited guards, met Capt Boyd, of the 34th [?] O.V.I.  fine weather roads drying, 3 oclock P.M. this is a Splended Day, 12 oclock, M, Returned from visiting Pickets.

18.
Camp Gauley West Va, Wednesday   6 oclock A.M.  Raining Slightly, 9 oclock A.M. Releived by Capt. Wicoff, as Officer of the Day.  3 oclock P.M. clear and mild, Capt Clarks, q[u]arters mashed by a Log, rolling down Cotton Mountain

MARCH 19.
Camp Gauley W Va, Thursday, 6 oclock A.M. cloudy, looks like Rain.  8 oclock A.M. Raining   was fishing but Caught nothing.  1½ oclock P.M. Raining very hard   Sent a map of Fayetteville W. Va. to R.M. Clake.  Lancaster O.  8½ P.M. Still Raining, cold.

20.
Camp Gauley W Va.  Friday  7 oclock A.M. Raining very hard, quite cold.  been Raining all Night.  9 oclock A.M. cold and cloudy.  11 oclock A.M.  Raining again   2 oclock P.M. Hail with Rain.  5 oclock P.M. Raining.  8 oclock P.M. Raining Slightly

21.
Camp Gauley W Va.  Saturday  6 oclock A.M. cloudy & cold, 8½ oclock A.M.  Enterd on my Duty as Officer of the Day, Releived Capt S. E. Clark.  2 oclock P.M. clearing of[f] in the west.  12. P.M. clear & cold.

MARCH 22.
Camp Gauley West Va.  Sunday 6 oclock A.M. clear and quite warm,  8½ oclock A.M. was Releived by Capt L. G. Cadot[?], as Officer of the Day.  10 oclock A.M> Regt on Dress Parade, to hear the proce[e]dings of Court Martial read, a pleasant day   8½ P.M. moon, Shining & warm.

23.
Camp Gauley West Va.  Monday  6½ oclock A.M. cloudy, looks like Rain, 10 oclock A.M. clear and warm   1. oclock P.M. clear,   Sun shining   very warm.  Sent Maj H. C. Whiting, [-], check for $26 – , 10 oclock P.M. cloudy, wind blowing warm

24.
Camp Gauley West Va, Tuesday 7 oclock A.M. warm and Raining.  10 oclock A.M. received Orders to move to Gauley Bridge, Kanawha River is rising rapidly   Ferry Boat cannot run.  11 P.M. cloudy

MARCH 25.
Camp Reynolds West Va.  Wednesday 7 oclock A.M. Raining Slightly  Kanawha, Still on the rise.  this camp is ½ a mile below the Kanawha Falls.  Lieut Merry R.Q.M. 34th  O.V.I. took Dinner with me to Day.  4 oclock P.M. Rain and Hail.  8½ oclock P.M. Dark and Raining, Kanawha Still Rising.

26.
Camp Reynolds West Va.  Thursday 6½ oclock A.M. cold, and Snowing.  I was Presented with an elegant Sword, by Sergeant A.M. Scott, on behalf of the members of my Company,  it cost two Hundred and Thirty Dollars, Belt and Sash with it   10 oclock P.M. clear and cold, freezing

27.
Camp Reynolds W Va.  Friday.  7 oclock A.M. clear and cold.  Kanawha River falling.  10. oclock A.M. Sun Shining warm, River falling fast   2 oclock P.M. warm,  10 oclock. P.M. cloudy looks like Rain,

APRIL 1.
Gauley Bridge, W Va.  Wednesday  8 oclock A.M. cold, and winday, Snow 1½ Inches on the ground. All Fools Day, very dull here, 11 oclock A.M. Sun Shining, 1¼ oclock P.M. getting warm, Sun Shining.  5 oclock P.M. wind blowing cold.  9½ oclock P.M. Beautiful moonlight night.

2.
Gauley Bridge W Va.  Thursday  6¾ A.M.  Cold, with a Strong wind.  10 oclock A.M. wind a blowing very hard, everything quiet on Gauley, 12 M.  warm and mild.  Just had a game of marbles, with Some of my Co.  2¼ P.M. Raining.  7¾  P.M. wind blowing cold.

3.
Gauley Bridge W Va.  Friday  7¼ A.M. Cold, rough wind.  9. A.M. Raining Slightly.  11½ A.M. cold wind blowing   2¼ P.M. Snowing & wind blowing  8½ P.M. Beautiful Moonlight Scenery, of Gauley Mountain.

APRIL 4.
Gauley Bridge, W Va. Saturday 6¾ A.M. cold & winday.  9 A.M. Telegraphed for my Wife to come here.  Eight months , in Service to Day. 1½ P.M. mail to day.  the first for Six Days.  Windy and cold.  4. P.M. very cold. 8 oclock P.M. clear and cold.

5.
Gauley Bridge, W Va.  Sunday 7½ A.M. cold and clear.  9. A.M. Sun Shining bright, 10½ A.M. received a visit from Lieuts. Atkinson and Crassford.  91st O.V.I. they found me Sick in bed, 2 oclock P.M. a Beautiful Day, out of doors, but a dull day to me.  7. P.M. turning cold.

6.
Gauley Bridge W Va, Monday  5½ A.M. feel Some better this morning.  cold and Raining   visited by Col Coates, at 10 oclock A.M.   2 P.M. getting Still colder and Raining [page cut] P.M. cold and blustery.

APRIL 7.
Gauley Bridge W Va.  Tuesday   8. A.M. Snow and Rain.  10 A.M.  cold and winday   feel much better this morning.  12. M. Sun Shining bright   Col. B. F. Coates took the Command of this Post to Day.  2. P.M. weather Looking Fine. 7 P.M. clear and cold.

8.
Gauley Bridge, W Va.   Wednesday   7. A.M.  cold and cloudy   9. A.M. clearing up Some.   Just heard of Thirty, of Jenkins, Cavalry was brought into Charleston Va.  Prisoners.   2 P.M. Still cloudy and cold.   5. P.M. clouds clearing off.   8½ P.M. clear, cold, and Starlight.   [Thirty of Jenkins Cavalry captured.]

9.
Gauley Bridge, W Va.  Thursday.  6½  A.M.  clear and cold.  10. A.M.  sun shining warm.  Paid a visit to the camp of the 91st at Camp Reyonaldo.  4 P.M.  clear and warm.  9 ½ P.M.  cold and Starlight.

APRIL 10.
Gauley Bridge, W Va.  Friday   7 ½ A.M.  clear and warm.  9 ½ A.M. getting quite warm.  Visit the Thompkins farm in company with Col. B. F. Coates.  Thompkins is a Col in the Rebel Service.  1 ½ P.M.  General Muster of all the United States Forces, to day.

11.
Gauley Bridge W Va.  Saturday   6 ½ A.M.  warm and hazy.  10. A.M.  clear and warm.  Just learned the Union Ticket was Triumphant in Ohio.  Bully for Ohio.  2 P.M.  warm.  4 ½ P.M.  Received dispatch from My Wife, at Charleston on her way here.  good for her.

12.
Gauley Bridge W. Va.  Sunday  6. A.M.  cloudy & Raining.  9. A.M. Start for Cannelton, to meet my wife, 1 oclock P.M. take Dinner at the Riggs, opposite Cannelton.  Stay all night with Jonas Likens.  9 P.M. clear

APRIL 13 – APRIL 18 (Pages missing.)

APRIL 19.
Gauley Bridge W Va. Sunday   7. A.M. a beautiful Morning   9 ½
A.M.   Start on a visit to See the Hawks Nest.  meet a Flag of Truce, coming from the Rebel Army.  Hawks Nest   8 miles from here.  Col Coates   Maj Carpenter, Capts Clarke   Caldwell, Adjt Longbon. in company

20.
Gauley Bridge W Va   Monday   6 ½ A.M. Sun Shining   warm.  Old man Manser & wife. left for Cincinnati O   Mrs Dunlap the wife of a Rebel Soldier came through the lines, on her way to New Hampshire   3 P.M.  warm & cloudy.  8 ½ P.M.  wind blowing warm.

21.
Gauley Bridge W Va.   Tuesday   7. A.M  warm and pleasent.
Election among the commissiond Officers for the Majorship, ballots to remain Sealed until the ballots arrive from the detachment at Summerville

APRIL 22.
Gauley Bridge W Va.   Wednesday  7 ½ A.M. cloudy & warm.  9 A.M.  A Deserter Just came in.  he Deserted from the 22d. Virginia C.S.A.  3 ½ P.M. clearing up.  5. P.M. wind blowing.  8 ½ P.M.  commenced to Rain

23.
Gauley Bridge W Va.   Thursday   7 ¼. A.M.  cloudy & Raining.  9. A.M.  Still Raining.  Sent of[f] an Application for Furlough, for Thos. Wilson.
11 ½. A.M.  Several Sick from Summerville Va on their road to Hospital.  2 P.M.  Raining.  9 ½. P.M.  cloudy and damp

24.
Gauley Bridge W Va.  Friday  7. A.M.  Raining freely.  9 ½ A.M.  clearing up, cold.  Gauley and New Rivers, both on the Rise, E. P. Stout went
to Cinti . 3 P.M. clear & warm 8 P.M. Beautiful Moonlight Night

APRIL 25.
Gauley Bridge W Va.  Saturday   7. A.M.  clear and warm.  9. A.M.  two Deserters came in from Richmond, been four weeks coming.  report great destitution, in the South.  the Rebel Army on half Rations.  Officer of the Day   the first time, for a month.

26.
Gauley Bridge W Va.   Sunday 7.A.M.  a beautiful morning.  10.A.M.  Irish Families moving within the lines.  one man bringing five hundred pounds of Tobacco.  Smugled it through the Rebel lines.  A Flag of Truce, went to Lewisburg, under Lt. Ankrom. 2d Va. Cavl

27.
Gauley Bridge W Va.  Monday  7.A.M.  clear and warm.  8 ½. A.M. Families, Still a Fleeing from Dixie.  3. P.M. getting cloudy, cavalry on road to Sumerville   81/2. P.M. cloudy, looks like Rain.

APRIL 28.
Gauley Bridge W Va.  Tuesday   6 ¼. A.M.  Raining.  8.A.M.  Enter on my Duty as Officer of the Day.  Still raining   4.P.M. Loop creek.  twenty Deserters, here, from the Rebel Army.  They report great destitution among the Rebels.  9.A.M.  Raining.

29.
Gauley Bridge, W Va, Wednesday  5.A.M.  clear and warm.  7 ½. A.M.
Start with my Wife, in an Ambulance, for Loop creek.  Roads very rough.  Loop Creek 10. A.M.  cloudy.  Boat will not be there until Some time in the night.

30.
Loop Creek, W Va.  Thursday   5 ¼. A.M.  my wife Started for Cincinnati O.   Col Paxton, starts for Lewisburg with the 2nd   Va Cavalry, to attack the Rebels, under Col Edgar, 26th Va. Vol.

MAY 1 – MAY 6 (Pages missing.)

MAY 7.
Summerville W. Va.  Thursday.  6 ¼ A.M.  cloudy and warm.  Start for Gauley Bridge, Va. this morning   looks like rain. Gauley Bridge 6 ½ P.M. arrived here wet completely through.  been raining very near all Day.  put up for the night at Mr Hills.

8.
Gauley Bridge W Va.  Friday Mr. Hills   warm and cloudy.  Intend to visit Camp Reynolds this morning where the 34th O. V. I. are encamped   3 ½ P.M.  Raining, quite hard.  Just returned from Camp Reynolds, Saw Capt. Peck, Capt. West, Maj Shaw   Lieut Clark, &c

9.
Gauley Bridge W Va. Saturday  8. A.M. clear and warm, I intend to Start for Ohio to day, if I can get conveyance.  met Lieut Taylor, on Guard   everything quiet here, to day.  Gauley & New Rivers, Raising

MAY 10.
Gauley Bridge W Va.  Sunday   6 A.M.   clear and warm.  Start for Loop Creek, to day.  Stopt at the camp of the 34th.O.V.I.  Simmonds Battery moves to day.  Loop Creek, 1 ½ P.M.  Just arrived here   met T. C. Hutchins, at Mrs Hudlestons, took Supper there.

11.
Loop Creek, W Va.  Monday  5 ½ A.M.  a Splendid morning.  Met Capt. West, 36th O.V.I. on his way to Charleston. to attend the Court Martial in Session there.  waiting for a Boat here.  9 ½ A.M.  Just heard that the 91st O.V.I. has moved back to Gauley Bridge.

12.
Loop Creek W Va. Tuesday, the Gen. Meigs will Start down the River to Day.  Charleston W Va.  8 A.M. met Capt. Jim Thomas. 91st O.V.I. & Capt. Buck Smith, 12th O.V.I.

May 13.
Galipolise O.  Wednesday 1 oclock A.M.  on Board of the Alleghanie Belle.  bound down the Ohio River.  I Shall get of[f] at Portsmouth O. and go up the canal to Waverly, O. as I want to See Hon J. J. Green

14.
Waverly O.  Thursday  6.A.M.  everything looks Natural here.  I  See Several New Houses are being built here.  Met very near all of my old acquaintances   all looking well.  looks as if it would be ^ ‘warm to day’

15.
Circleville O.  Friday.  3. A.M. was awakened up, to go on the cars to Lancaster O.  I have not been very well for Several days.  I went to bed yesterday 5. P.M.

MAY 16.
Lancaster O.  Saturday  I arrived here yesterday morning at half past five, with a pretty high Fever.  Sent for Dr. O. E. Davis. who gave me Some Calomel, and quinine.  he Says I am attacked with Fever.

17.
Lancaster O.  Sunday  Fever not quite So high and burning as yesterday.  Dr Davis informes me he is a going to remove to Cinti – to practice his profession   he will do well there

18.
Lancaster O.  Monday   Fever worse to Day.  I have Sent for Dr. Wagenhals. to visit me as Dr. Davis has gone to Cincinnati O. was called on by Dr. P. M. Wagenhals

May 19.
Lancaster O.  Tuesday   Fever not near So heavy as it was on yesterday.  I am Still taking a pretty large quantity of medicine.  I have been visited by a good many of my acquaintances Since I came.

20.
Lancaster O   Wednesday   no Fever this morning, but last Night the Fever was very high   worse than it has been sick. Since I have been taken Sick   pulse quiet and easy this morning.

21.
Lancaster O.  Thursday   Fever all disapeard but am yet very weak.  have eaten of nothing Since last Friday.  been drinking Some wine, to day

May 22.
Lancaster O.  Friday.  am very weak yet.  no Fever now.  felt like eating Something this morning.  am not taking any Medicine now.  the weather is very warm and dry.

23.
Lancaster O.  Saturday, much better this morning, but am quite weak.  Shall take a ride up, Street to day.  I think it will make me feel Some better.  weather warm and dry yet.  we need Rain.

24.
Lancaster O.  Sunday  feel pretty well this morning.  a Ride on yesterday braced me up considerable.  Met a number of my friends.  All well.

MAY 25.
Lancaster O.  Monday,  I am getting Some Stronger.  I met John Collons, Late the Major of the 5th O.V. I. who had to Resign, on account of ill health also met Major Stafford, of the 1st O.V.I.   looking well.  weather warm and Dry.

26.
Lancaster o.  Tuesday  am Still gaining in Strength.  Received information that Abram Heed , was wounded Sever[e]y in the hip and Legs at the Battle of Chancelorsville Va.  25th Regt. O.V.I.

27.
Lancaster O.  Wednesday  gaining in Strength, looks like Rain this morning.  5 ¼ P.M. very warm and dry.  everything needs rain  8 P.M. clear and warm.

MAY 28.
Lancaster O.  Thursday.  7 ½ A.M. Feel much better this morning, a pleasant wind blowing.  11 ¼ A.M.  cloudy and warm.  looks Something like Rain.  1.P.M. very favorable news from Grants Army, in front of Vicksburg, Miss.

29.
Lancaster, O.  Friday, 6 ½ A.M.  am gaining Strength fast.  cloudy and warm   Slight rain.  was visited by W. E. Mead, of Chillicothe O.  Superintendent of the Ohio Canal.  Shall Start for Columbus O. at 1 oclock P.M. with Col McVeigh.

30.
Columbus O.  Saturday 5 ½ A.M.  gaining Strength very fast.  a Splendid morning.  Rain last night.  pretty lively here this morning.  a Splendid morning

JUNE 1-3 (Page cut out.)

JUNE 4.
Lancaster O.  Thursday  8 ¼. A.M. clear and warm.  Col. Alfred McVeigh, Started for Philiadelphia, yesterday.  10.A.M. very warm.  The Seventeen year Locust have made there appearance.  1 P.M. war news good to Day.  7.P.M. warm.

5.
Lancaster O.  Friday  8 ¾. A.M. warm & dry.   in very good health now.  news very Stale from the Army.  Judge W. W. Johnson, of Ironton, O. is here.  he used to be a guest of mine at Waverly.

6.
Lancaster O.  Saturday, 9.A.M. very dry.  1 ½ P.M. I Saw to day for the first time, Some men a wearing Butternutts, the cursed Rebels. worse than those in the South.

JUNE 7.
Lancaster O.  Sunday 9 ½ A.M. the air this morning is quite cold, for this time of the year.  11.A.M. clear and cold.  not very well.  1 ½. P.M. more pleasant.  8 ½ P.M. getting quite cold.

8.
Lancaster O.  Monday   8 1/2 .A.M.  clear and quite cold.  a pretty big frost last Night nipping of the Garden truck.  I wrote to Col Turley, about my certificate, from the Quartermaster   6.P.M. cool.

9.
Lancaster O. Tuesday. 7 ½.A.M. clear and cool   feel in good Spirits this morning over the news of the operation of Gen Banks, at Port Hudson, hope he will whip them

JUNE 10.
Lancaster O.  Wednesday  7 ½. A.M. clear & warm.  the air a little damp.  feel first-rate this morning.  10.A.M.  looks like Rain.  1 ½. P.M. war news very good.  no Rain yet.  Some appearance of it however.

11.
Lancaster O.  Thursday  8 A.M. Raining.  has been raining Since yesterday in the evening.  this is the first Rain, Since I have been at Home.  The Gardens and fields look very healthy.

12.
Lancaster O.  Friday  8 ½. A.M. warm & clear  10. A.M. received my certificate of Indebtedness to the Government, from Lt. A. D. Crossland, the R.Q.M. 91st Regt, O.V.I.

JUNE 13.
Lancaster O.  Saturday  8 ½. A.M. warm & cloudy.  looks Something like rain  10. A.M. Just heard that the Democratic convention met at Columbus O.   have Nominated C.L. Valandigham, for Gov, of Ohio.  this will not Suit the Soldiers.

14.
Lancaster O.  Sunday.  9. A.M.  clear & warm.  no Rain on yesterday.  the Union Party talk of Nominating John Brough, for the Gov of Ohio.  he will be Elected Sure, if he is Nominated, 7. P.M. warm.

15.
Lancaster O.  Monday  7 ½. A.M.  clear & warm.  the Gardens, and the crops in the Fields, look very well.  the prospect is now, for a Bountiful harvest.

JUNE 16.
Lancaster O.  Tuesday  8. A.M.  warm & hazey.  Yesterday was the warmest day we have had So far this Season.  1 ½. P.M. a Slight Sprinkle of Rain.  the Oats, and hay crop will be Short this Season

17.
Lancaster O.  Wednesday  9. A.M.  the convention of the Union Party meet at Columbus, O. to day.  a great many of the Delegates, are passing through here.  John Brough, will be Nominated for Gov. Sure.

18.
Lancaster O.  Thursday  8 ½. A.M.  News came last Night, of Lee’s Army a moving toward Pennsylvania & Maryland   Hooker, is also moving   will be a Battle betwe[e]n them

JUNE 19.
Lancaster O.  Friday   8. A.M.  received news of John Brough’s Nomination for Gov, he will Suit the Soldiers, and will be Elected by at least, from Seventy five, to Ninty thousand MaJority.  Bully for him

20.
Lancaster O.  Saturday  9 ½. A.M.  no positive news from Lee’s army,  Reble Cavalry in Penn & Maryland, doing considirable damage.  Col McVeigh arrived home from Washington City.  my case under advisement there.

21.
Lancaster O.  Sunday  9 ½. A.M. warm and clear, grain looking very well, in the fields.  no News of importance from Vicksburg or Hooker.
JUNE 22.
Lancaster O.  Monday  8.A.M.  clear 7 warm  11 ½. A.M. my Brother arrived at Home to day.  he was wounded in the Battle of Chancellorsville.  he is in the Army of the Potomic, under Gen Hooker.

23.
Lancaster O. Tuesday  9. A.M.  warm and cloudy.  Abram Heed belongs to the 25th Regt O.V.I. Army of the Potomic   will take Dinner with me to day.  he was wounded at Chancellorsville.  Eastern Virginia.

24.
Lancaster O.  Wednesday  7. A.M.  cool & cloudy   a very poor market here for this time of the year.  they generally have a good market in this place.

JUNE 25.
Lancaster O.  Thursday  8 ½ A.M.  cloudy and cool.  the Locust are about all disappeared.  Some Indications of Rain.  they are trying to raise a company of Negroes for the war, in this County.  good Luck Speed them

26.
Lancaster O.  Friday  9. A.M. cool & Raining   has been Raining Since yesterday Evening.  I am in tolerable good health at this time.  the health of my Family, is very good.  the war news rather exciting

27.
Lancaster O.  Saturday   8 ½. A.M.  windy and cool.  A good market this morning.  10 ½. A.M. business pretty brisk to day, this is fine growing weather.

JUNE 28-JULY 3 (Page cut out.)

JULY 4.
Lancaster O.  Saturday.  7 1/2 . A.M.  a pleasant morning  10. A.M.  there will not be any celebration here to day.  too many of the Copperhead persuasion, in this County.  Rain last night cooled of[f] the atmosphere   Locusts have all disappeard

5.
Lancaster O.  Sunday.  8. A.M. clear and warm.  a beautiful Rain yesterday.  11 ½. A.M.  good news from the Potomac Army.  the Rebels on the Retreat.  a pleasant wind moving.  Several Butternuts drunk yet from yesterday.

6.
Lancaster O.  Monday  7 ½. A.M. a. Beautifull morning.  fine weather for cutting Hearvest.  1 ½. P.M.  news just came that Gen. Meade, has whipt Gen Lee, in Pennsylvania

JULY 7.
Lancaster O.  Tuesday  7 ½. A.M.  warm and pleasant.  looks like Rain.  every person but the Butternuts are pleased about the news from the Army of the Potomac.  3. P.M.  dispatch Says that Vicksburg has Surrenderd.

8.
Lancaster O.  Wednesday   8. A.M.  very warm.  A great Jolification, last Night.  bonfires & firing of Cannon, on the Surrender of Vicksburg with 26,000 Prisoners.  Col  John. A. Connell, of the 17th O.V.I. made a Speech

9.
Lancaster O.  Thursday.  6 ½. A.M.  cloudy & warm.  another large meeting last night.  Bonfires and fire works.  Speaches &c.  I intend going to Cincinti in a few day to get my ^ ‘pay’.

JULY 10.
Lancaster O.  Friday  8 ½. A.M. warm and hazey.  a Butternut meeting takes place here to Night   they look very much discomfited and downhearted over the news from Gen. Meades Army and from Gen Grants Army

11.
Lancaster O.  Saturday  6. A.M. weather hazey.  a good market this morning.  this is what I like to See.  2 1/2 . P.M.  Charles Heed.  Started for Columbus O. on the noon train, with Six more men, for his Company

12.
Lancaster O.  Sunday.  9. A.M. cloudy & cool.  There has been hail Someplace, which has cooled the air.   1¼. P.M.  large numbers attended church to day, not very well

JULY 13.
Lancaster O.  Monday  7 ½. A.M.  cool and cloudy.  10. A.M.  all of the Millitia called out to report at Columbus O.  a great many Butternuts are Showing their weak Knees.  one man was butted when he was young, by a Sheep.   he cant ^’go’

14.
Lancaster O.  Tuesday.  8. A.M.  Raining pretty hard,  the Millitia leave to day for Columbus O.   Morgan in Ohio, tearing up Rail Roads.  4. P.M. the Millitia Just leaft on three Canal Boats.  a large number goes tomorrow.

15.
Lancaster, O.  Wednesday  7. A.M.  clear and warm  I intend going to Columbus with the Millitia to day.  3 ½. P.M. Sheriff Miller, John Rudolph, Henry Crammer, Charley Rainy & myself start ^ ‘for Columbus.’

JULY 16.
Columbus O.  Thursday.  8 ½ A.M.  warm and clear.  Millitia, in evry direction you may look.  The Gov. discharging half of all that have reported.  twelve thousand reported up to this time.  Staid all night with Ed Farmingham

17.
Lancaster O.  Friday  9. A.M.  clear and cool.  arrived here last night.  Just received the news that Morgan (the Reble) has burnt the Hotel, I kept in Waverly, with a number of other Houses, this is a great loss there

18.
Lancaster O.  Saturday  8 ½ A.M.  warm & clear.  A few Cavalry here watching for Morgan.  5. P.M.  quite a muss between Some Butternuts and Some of the Cavalry   one Cavalry man cut with a Knife

JULY 19.
Lancaster O.  Sunday.  8 1/2 . A.M.  clear and warm.  all of the Cavalry left last night.  went in the direction of Marietta.  it is reported that John Morgan will be there to day.  Militia is moving on him from all of Southern Ohio.

20.
Lancaster O.  Monday  9. A.M.  cloudy & cool.  Morgan defeated in an attempt to cross the Ohio River, at Buffington Island.  150 Killed  1000. taken Prisoners.  Capt. C. H. Heed. left Columbus for Cleaveland O  last Saturday

21.
Lancaster O.  Tuesday  7 ½ A.M.  cool and cloudy.  Militia, all returning home to day.  8. P.M. Dispatch Just come Stating John Morgan’s whole force has been captured   him also

JULY 22.
Lancaster O.  Wednesday  8 1/2 . A.M.   clear and cool.  everybody excited over the capture of John Morgans forces.  10. A.M. the reported capture of John Morgan was premature.  he is at large with between ten and twelve hundred men.

23.
Lancaster O.  Thursday  8 ½.A.M.  warm and clear.  The Millitia, had all the Roads.  Picketed last night about four hundred was encamped at the fair grounds.  all Business is Suspended for the present.  everybody laboring under excitem ^’ent’

24.
Lancaster O. Friday.  9.A.M.  clear and very warm.  Business resumed again.  A Democratic meeting here to day.  2 ¾. P.M.  Some fighting on the Streets between some union men and Butternuts.

JULY 25.
Lancaster O.  Saturday.  8.A.M.  warm and Raining.  Morgan reported tearing up the Central O. Rail Road.  was Just enformed that Col. Jno. T. Toland, 34th O.V.I. was killed, at Wytheville Va.  I am very Sorry for this   he was a good and brave Soldier

26.
Lancaster O.  Sunday.  9.A.M.  cool and cloudy.  Col Powell, 2nd Virginia Cavalry, another Brave Officer, was wounded at Wytheville Va.  while destroying the Va. & ten. R.R.  Such men is a big loss to the Government.  3 ½. P.M.  nothing from Morgans forces to Day

27.
Lancaster O.  Monday.  8 ½.A.M.  clear and cool.  A Dispatch came last night that Morgan & all of his force had been captured, in Columbiania County.  I heard from my former Co. at Gauley Bridge.

JULY 28.
Lancaster O.  Tuesday.  9.A.M.  warm and clear.  a few Cavalry here on their Road home, from the Morgan chase.  1 ½.P.M.  Morgan’s capture is confirmed.  he passed through Columbus O. yesterday.  8 ½.P.M.  quite a demonstration over ^ ‘his Capture.’

29.
Lancaster O.  Wednesday  7.A.M.  cloudy & pleasant.  a Splendid market this morning.  a large quantity of Berries.  Selling at from Six to ten cents for quart.  11 ½.  no war news of Importance to Day.

30.
Lancaster O.  Thursday.  8 ½.A.M.  clear and warm.  two of  Gen. Morgan’s (Rebel) Officers were Captured in this County yesterday, and brought here last night and put in Jail.

JULY 31.
Lancaster O.  Friday  6 ½.A.M. Cloudy & Raining – Gen. Morgan’s two Officers, Capt Logan, and Lt. Rhea, were taken to Columbus O. on yesterday Afternoon.  they belong  to the (3rd ) Kentucky (Rebel) Cavalry.  There is a few of Morgan’s men Scattered around in the lower part of the State.  They will all be picked up yet.  I See by the Cincinnati Papers, that the 91st Regt. O.V.I. were after Morgan.  should of liked to of been with them.  I Shall probably go to Columbus O. tomorrow, with Sherriff James Miller.  1 ½. P.M. a pleasant Shower is a falling.  the crops need it, very badly.  10.P.M.  Raining   it has been Showery all Day.

AUGUST 1.
Lancaster O.  Saturday  6.A.M.  warm and cloudy.  met Judge Whitman, of Cincinnati O. this morning in market.  he was formally Judge of the County Court, of this county.  no war news of Importance to day.  7.P.M.  extremely hot.

2.
Lancaster O.  Sunday.  9.A.M.  clear and hot.  I will go to Cincinnati instead of Columbus, with Sherriff Miller.  he is going with a lot of Government
Horses.  3.P.M.  an extremely hot day.  the hottest of the Seas ^’on’

3.
Lancaster O.  Monday.  7 ½.A.M.  warm and cloudy.  a great amount of Sickness prevailing through out the Country.  will Start this evening at 7 oclock for Cincinnati O.

AUGUST 4.
Cincinnati O.  Tuesday  9. A.M.  clear and warm. Just arrived here from Lancaster O.  took Breakfast at Morrow.  find quite a number of persons here I know.  a Splendid market here this morning in fifth street market Space.

5.
Cincinnati O.  Wednesday.  7.A.M.  warm and cloudy.  am Stoping at the Dennison, house, a pretty good House.  11 ½ A.M.  Raining.  it is very warm now   a very large number of Horses, have been brought here.  the market is overstocked

6.
Cincinnati O.  Thursday.  6 ½.A.M.  cloudy and warm.  new recruits coming in.  10.A.M.  This day is principally observed here.  it is being Set apart by the President as a day of Thanksgiving for our victories.

AUGUST 7.
Cincinnati O.  Friday  8.A.M.  warm and Sultry.  Sheriff Miller, will have his Horses Inspected this morning.  Met Lt. Burbage, of the 91st Regt O.V.I. on his road home recruiting.  will Start for Home tomorrow, in the Evening

8.
Cincinnati O.  Saturday  7.A.M.  warm and cloudy, looks like Rain.  9.A.M.
getting Still warmer.  I am not very well.  have Some Fever.  Shall go to my Room and lay down.  3 ½. P.M.  will leave at 4 P.M. for Home   fell better.

9.
Lancaster O.  Sunday.  9.A.M.  clear and warm.  reached here at 5 ½.A.M.  had my Coat Stole, at Washington, last Night.  Some Important papers were in it, & my Commission

AUGUST 10.
Lancaster O.  Monday  10 ¼. A.M. cloudy and warm.  I have written to the Sheriff of Fayette Co. about my Coat.  advertised in Cinti Commercial, the Theif.  have written to Head Quarters, for Duplicates, to all of my Papers.

11.
Lancaster O.  Tuesday.  9.A.M. very warm & cloudy, am not well this morning.  no Heves, but very weak.  I think I have got the Fever broke.  was attended by Dr. O. E. Davis, the best Phycian, in this County.

12.
Lancaster O.  Wednesday.  10 ½. A.M. warm and clear.  no heves at all.  am Some Stronger.  3.P.M. received a Letter from Col C. B. White, Stating I was not preasent when Col. Turley made his Station^’ends’

AUGUST 13.
Lancaster O.  Thursday, 9.A.M. warm & Sultry:  Some rain last night.  I have heard nothing from my coat and my Papers, that was Stole.  am recovering fast from my Sickness.  I received a Letter from Lt Heed

14.
Lancaster O.  Friday.  8 ½.A.M. cloudy and warm.  met Capt I. C. Hendly, this morning.  Made arrangements to Send Lt. C. W. Heed a Brother of mine, a Sword from Columbus.  he is at Cleaveland O.  belongs to the 129th Regt O.V.I. Cp D.

15.
Lancaster O.  Saturday  7.A.M. clear and cool.  met Capt. I. W. Stinchcomb of the 17th O.V. I.  looking well  he is a noble hearted man and a man I like.  He is frank, and Honest.

AUGUST 16.
Lancaster O.  Sunday. 9.A.M. clear and warm.  Yesterday evening I received my Original Discharge from the War Department, with which to draw my Pay.  will go to Cincinnati as Soon as I get my certificates.  will take my wife along

1863 Feb 14-Dec. 29 Hunter

     Feb. 14th’’63.
Early this morning
the sun shone out bright-
ly, but before long it
was obscured by clouds, –
shortly after noon
it commenced rain-
ing & has rained all
afternoon & continues
unabated, (9 P.M.)
Although to-day is
St. Valentine’s day, I
have rec’d “niver a
letter.”
Feel quite well to-day.

                        [23]
     Feb. 15th,’63.
The rain fell in torrents
all night, but ceased
at day break.
It is cloudy & cool.
Walked over to Camp to-
day, & remained a short
time; rode back on our
kind Chaplain’s horse.
Not so well to-day as
yesterday.
Seven months in the
service to-day.

     Feb. 16th,’63.
Railroad communication
between Murfreesboro &
Nashville ^ ‘was completed’ on last Thurs-
day, (that by telegraph be-
ing previously perfected.)
Suffering to-day with
weakness & pain in my
back; symptoms of

[24]
Rheumatism in my legs
& arms.
Cold & cloudy in the
morning; commenced
raining about 11 A.M.
& has continued all
day.
This morning Capt.
Nicholas, (Co. H.) oc-
cupies the bed in
this room, vacated
recently by Lt. Rose-
man, (Co. A.) who has
recovered, & who was
here sick on my
arrival.
I’m informed that
the reg’t. was called
into line at 4 A.M.
to-day, & remained there
until daylight, – an
attack by the forces
under John Morgan being feared.

                        [25]
     Feb. 17th,’63.
Rained all night;
cloudy but no rain
during the day; – be-
gun raining at dark.
Our brigade is order-
ed to strike tents &
be ready to move at
7 A.M. to-morrow.

     Feb. 18th,’63.
Rained all night &
still raining this morn-
ing. At about 8 A.M. the
brigade marched out to
the pike & up toward
town, – tents still stand-
ing & men detailed to
guard Co. quarters.
Passed through town,
crossed the river on
the R.R. Bridge, & were
variously employed

[26]
during the day, I’m
informed, in gather-
ing timber adrift in
the stream, repairing
the R.R. bridge, & re-
moving the pontoon
bridge into more
shallow water.
This evening they re-
turned to the old
camp to sleep in
the tents.
Rain ceased about
9 or 10 A.M. since
which time it has
been cloudy & cool, ap-
parently prepared to
renew the drenching
process on the slight-
est provocation & at
a moment’s notice.
Pain in my head less
severe to-day.

                        [27]
     Feb. 19th,’63.
Cloudy with little
rain to-day.
Did not fall asleep
until 5 A.M. this morn-
ing.
Walked over to camp to-
day.
     Feb. 20th,’63.
Quite pleasant to-day, –
sun shining.
Signing pay rolls
this evening. Over to
camp again to-day.

     Feb. 21st’63.
Cloudy & cool this morn-
ing; begun raining at
11 A.M.
Reg’t. out foraging to-
day. Over to camp to-
day.

[28]
     Feb. 22d, ’63.
Ceased raining at
dark & did not rain
during the night; cloudy
& cold to-day.
Today being the anni-
versary of Washington’s
birth day, a salute
of 34 guns was fired
by one battery in
each division.

     Feb. 23d,’63.
Clear & quite pleas-
ant to-day.
I ate my dinner &
supper in Camp.
My back quite pain-
ful. This morn-
ing the firing of
cannon at Nash-
ville was heard in
Camp.

                        [29]
     Feb. 24th, ’63.
Light clouds par-
tially obscure the
sun, yet it is a
beautiful morning.
Not so well to-day.
Clear in the afternoon.

     Feb. 25th,’63.
Cloudy this morning;
began to rain about
noon, & has rained all
afternoon.
Our reg’t. was paid to-
day up to the 31st of
Oct. ’62. I was paid
only from the 9th of
Aug. ’62, at which
time I reported a full
Company instead of
the 15th of July, when I
was appointed; & muster-
ed in by Capt. Dodi.

[30]
     Feb. 26th, ’63.
Rained all night fu-
riously; rained all day.
Sent $250.00 home by
“State Pay Agent;” Williams,
to order of Father.
Paid, to-day, to Foerster
& Bailey, Sutlers 97th
Ohio, $56.67, my ac-
count in full up to
this date.
John M. Archer died
to-day.

     Feb. 27th, ’63.
Warm & clear to-day;
moved over to camp
to my tent.
Men for the “Roll of
Honor” elected to-night.
Brady & I hired “Jim” from
to-morrow, at $10 per month, –
“’alf & ‘alf.”

                        [31]
     Feb. 28th, ’63.
Cloudy this morning.
Pay rolls to be made
out to-day; inspection
& muster for pay, also.

     F March 1st, ’63.
Clear & warm.
Quite sick in the
morning.
Reg’t. gone on foraging
expedition, with three
days rations.

     March 2d, ’63.
Cloudy & cool most
of the day. I walked
to town & back to-day.
Part of the reg’t.
returned to-day with
some of the wagons
loaded & sent back.

[32]
     March 3d, ’63.
Cloudy & cool.

     April 20th, ’63.
     We were yesterday or-
dered to have three
day’s cooked rations
in haversacks, & three to
put in wagons, to be
ready to march when-
ever called upon.
Started this morn-
ing at 8 ½ O’Clock, and
marched out the Mc
Minnville pike to Crip-
ple Creek, where a bri-
gade of our army is
encamped, guarding
a very high hill, used
as a post of observation
by our signal corps, &
                        [33]
which gives a view of
the Country for more
than 20 ms. from Mur-
freesboro, & which can
be seen from the Court
House in that town; here
we halted & ate our din-
ners. This afternoon we
marched to a little
town, the name of which
is said to be spelled Rea-
dyville, & pronounced Res-
dyville, where another
brigade, performing like
duty with the one before
mentioned is stationed.

     April 21st, ’63.
Started before sun-
rise this morning.
Passed through Wood-
bury about noon; a-

[34]
bout 3 P.M. we halted
to rest & await orders; &
having marched about
25 ms. Rested over an
hour when we started
again, turning to the left
off the pike on a dirt
road, & marching a-
bout 5 ms. we encamp-
ed for the night.
Our mounted infant-              [“A strong Federal expedition patrolled from
ry, & cavalry, in advance,      Murfreesboro to McMinnville, Tenn.,
entered McMinnville to-         April 20-30.” Long, Civil War Day by Day.]
day, capturing over 100
of John Morgan’s men
& burned two R.R. bridges
& a cotton factory.

     April 22nd, ’63.
Started early this
morning, & marched
all day through a

                        [35]
well wooded – for this
country, – & sparsely pop-
ulated country.

     April 23d, ’63.
Started at 3 o’clock
this morning, at about
9 A.M. came upon the
pike, & started in the
direction of Liberty, which
place we reached a-
bout 2 ½ P.M. A flour-
ing mill, much used
by the rebels, was burn-
ed this afternoon. En-
camped about 1 mile
West of town.

     April 24th, ’63.
Remained in Camp

[36]
to-day; about 3 P.M. our
reg’t. went on picket
two miles East of town.

     April 25th, ’63.
Returned to camp a-
bout 9 A.M., when we
all started to Alex-
andria; which place,
we reached about
12 M., & encamped.
Today we destroyed
the machinery of a
flouring mill, & also,
a carding machine.

     April 26th, ’63.
Remained in camp
to-day. Heard Rev.
McFarland preach
in the Campbellite
Church.

                        [37]
     April 27th, ’63.
Up every morning since
out at 3 o’clock.
At 2 P.M. we started
back toward Liberty, &
encamped within 2 ½
miles of that place &
1 ½ miles our former
camp.
A number of refugees
are with us on their
way north. The peo-
ple all along our line
of march say they are
in a very destitute, & some
in almost a starving
condition.
A shoemaker in Al-
exandria told me, –
showing a pair of shoes,
just such as are issued
by our Government for
$1.48, – that he had

[38]
been offered $25 for
his shoes, & had re-fused it.
Most of Stokes’
cavalry was recruit-
ed in this part of
the Country.

     April 28th, ’63.
Up at 3 ½ A.M.
Rained some during
the night, & very slight-
ly this morning.

                        [39]
[The next page is blank.]

[40] [Written upside down from previous pages.]
Rec’d. of Capt. W. F. Hunter,
Co. B, 97 Ohio, the follow-
ing orduance, Aug. 14, ’63:
52 Enfield complete –
54 sets of accouterments.
1600 r’ds. cartridges

     1st Lieut J. F. Brady

Rec’d. of Capt. Wm. F. Hunter,
Co. B, 97th Ohio, the following
Camp & Garrison equipage, Aug.
14, 1863: –
     9 Mess pans –
     5 Camp kettles –
     4 Hatchets, & H.
     3 Axes –          “
     1 Pick –           “
     1 Spade –        “
     26 S. tents –
     48 Knapsacks –
     68 Haversacks –
     68 Canteens –
          1st Lieut J. F. Brady.

                        [42]
     July 14th, 1863.
Bought tobacco for
the following men of
the Co. of Sut. 57th Ind.,
at 30 cts. a piece, to be
paid next pay day.
[See Xerox of this page.]

[43] This diary page is written upside down to the above pages.]
     Dec. 26th, 1863.
Started to rejoin the
brigade at Blanes X
Roads, 18 ms. from
Knoxville. Got aboard
the Steam boat “Chatta-
noga”, which got under
way about 9 P.M.
Cabin (?) consists of
a light frame work
of pine, over which
is thrown some pieces
of old tent[-]. No
stove in our part
of the aforesaid Cabin!
Unpleasantly cool.
Rained all day & night.
Fare: “Hard tack & coffee”,
& “do your own Cooking”.
     Dec. 27, 1863.
Sunday. Still rain-
ing. The boat goes

[44]
at the rate of –
well, I don’t know
just how much, –
but she goes, or the
trees on the bank
have all started down
the river. Rained all
day & night. The rain
comes into our “Cabin”
without being invited.
The boat had to “lay to”
for several hours
during the night owing
to the fog.

     Dec. 28th, 1863.
Reached London about
8 A.M. Landed opposite
the town. The rebel
works there as seen
from this side of
the river are insig-

                        [45]
nificant. The bridge
here is burned.
Rain has ceased but
it is cloudy & cold.
Made a fire near the
Rail road, & trying to make
ourselves “at home” until
2 P.M. when, it is said,
the Cars will arrive.
35. Ky. encamped here.
Cars arrived about 12 M.
Started about 3 ½ P.M.
“Stauled” once on up       
grade. Reached Knoxville
about 8 P.M. – 4 ½ hours
going 35 ms. A. P. M. per-
mitted us to sleep on
the floor of his room
in the Court House.
     Dec. 29, 1863.
Started for Strawberry
plains on cars about 10 A.M.

[46]
& reached there about 11 ½ P.M.
Brig. G. S. S. being there for
bread, I came out with
him, arriving at Camp,
which is on the bank
of the river, 6 ms. from
the station.
So ends the Chapter.

[Transcription Notes: The rest of Capt. W. F. Hunter’s diary is used as a record book. See Xerox pages following. For explanation of transcription style, see page 47.

                               -Mary Roy Dawson Edwards, Transcriber
                                 July 2008.]

1863 Feb 14-1863 March 1 Butler

Sat 14.  Fine, but cool – had windows put in our house –
we are living well now – Dr. Reily went home   Dr.
Bateman returned   visited hospl. letters fr. Tilly &
Mr H – Hear that 9th A. C. is to be divided part go
to Newbern – & part (we) to Suffolk – 27th N J has orders
to be ready to move at mom hours notice.
Sun 15.  Are April day – visited hos. talked & prayed as
usual.  read at 4  Held service with regt – preaches
 on “ How shod. a man be just with God.” Job 9:2  dift. ans.
given to question a slight shower ^‘at close’ prevented singing & also dress
                                                                                           parade

                        9th A. C.  Newport News Va.   Feb   1863     1202
In Eveg. held a large & interestg py. mtg. at our quarters,
took walk after it on beach with Major, urged attention
to Salvation upon him – dark cloudy night, scraped away wet sand,
& kneeled together on beach & prayer for him.  I hope God will
bring him to Christ – & pour out his spt. here.
Mon 16.  rose early, am to hold py. mtg in hosp tent tonight,
feel need of Spts. presence & convertg. power –
large[?] & interstg meetg.   Col Derrow returned.
Tues 17. rain – sketched – had singing in Eveg
Wed 18. rain – boxes came with good things from home,
held py. meetg. only three or four present – very stormy,
rats are drowned rats, small py. meetg in eveg.
Thurs 19. very stormy, but cleared so we played ball, but Eldridge
would catch me out.)  visited hos. sketched & wrote letters.
Capt. Wheeler 15th Conn – took tea & sat awhile with us.
Fri 20.  fine day, high wind but soft air – Dr. Daily & I rode
up the lines & beyond to outer pickets – on a high bluff thro.
woods saw whole 9th A. Corps – called on 27th Regt.  passed thro. deserted
farms & gardens – beautiful country & rich land, home to a late
dinner – Mr Hornblower writes that my letter was read to my Ch & that
I am now out of the question.
Sat 21. A most charming spring like day, birds singing – air soft & balmy
Lt. Col Ayres & Capt Force are off for ducks at day light –
blew up cold at night –     wrote several letters.
Sun 22. Terrible storm of wind snow & rain – walked thro. camp before
breakfast & some tents down & have drowned out –
Stormed almost whole day. very cold   freezing – no parades
guardmountg – or general service – held short service –“
hos. & good prayer meetg. in Eveg – Col. unwell –
read sermon.  Washingtons Birthday
Mon 23. Still very cold – cloudy – vist. hosp &c
Tues 24.  Warmer – In p.m. went with Jno. to Fort

[page not numbered]  Camp 9th AC at Newport News Va.
Monroe for Supplies –                                      Feb   1863
Wed 26. Lovely day – Gen. Dix reviewed whole 9th
A.C. – Magnificient sight   abt. 15000 men –
men in new pants, generally – splendid masses –
fine banners – & good discipline – As ea. regt.
with its two colors came up the old man raised
his hat   the drums rolled a loud & startling salute
the colors dipped while the boys the while poured
forth delicious music.  Dr. Reily returned –
We played ball – got quite warm, vist. hos – attended
small debating Soc. of the men in loft [?],
Thurs 26 – Warm – read – in hos – &c, Letter fr. Wm. H. says Wm. has returned with stores of good things
Fri 27 – Mild – Showry – visited by Chapl. Morris 8th
Conn. & Lt. Hubbell 21 Conn – In hos – also held a
Ch. Com. meetg – in Eveg – to arrange for communion –
Sat 28. Stormy, little unwell – dieted – held small but
interestg py. mtg in eveg.  examined candidates for
Con adminsin to ch.
Sun 29. Clea March 1st.  cleared off, fine, mild –
examined other candidates, & recd. in all five.  Peter R