On the 8th of June, Lieut. Col. Phillips, with Companies A, B, E, F, G and I, moved south on a scout, and returned on the 9th, at 1 P. M., bringing in a drove of cattle and sheep. The remaining companies of the Regiment went as an escort to a train of wagons, as far as the bridge on Tuscumbia Creek.
On the 11th of June, Capt. Kneffner, with Companies A, C, E, H and I, moved North-west on a scout, and returned in the evening, having marched 40 miles, bringing in three prisoners.
The Regiment, accompanied by one section of Tamrath's Battery, moved south on the Ripley road, on the 12th of June, at 1 P. M., and bivouacked for the night within ten miles of Ripley. Moved forward early on the morning of the 13th, and took possession of Ripley without opposition. The town was searched, but nothing of a contraband nature was found, except a number of negroes, who were confiscated for the use of the Government. Moved on in the direction of New Albany. At Orizabo, the flankers on our left encountered a few Rebel soldiers, and after driving them off, burned the place, as it contained Rebel stores and was a place of rendezvous for them. While stopping to feed, about four miles south of Ripley, a family moving to Ripley came along. Their wagons and carriage were searched, and a Rebel mail was found in the old lady's carpet-sack. Their horses and mules were all confiscated, except one old team of mules which they were allowed to keep.
The Regiment then proceeded to New Albany, reaching that place about 4 P. M. Finding the town nearly deserted by citizens, and used as a general Headquarters for guerrillas, and a supplying point for them, it was entirely destroyed, after any stores of value that could be carried away were taken.
We then moved back toward Ripley, on a different route from the one by which we had entered, going three miles and bivouacking for the night.
At 1 o'clock, A. M., June 14th, Lieutenant Krebs and escort came into our bivouack from Pocahontas, with orders from Col. Mersy, for us to return as rapidly as possible to camp at Pocahontas, as the enemy were planning to capture us. We moved at 2 A. M. Reached Ripley at breakfast time, and camp at Pocahontas at 8 P. M. At daylight this morning, the enemy, 1500 strong, reached our last night's bivouack. But fortunately we were safe out of their reach. It was fortunate for us, for our force numbered but 300 men with two pieces of artillery.
The Regiment was out three days on this expedition. It captured, and brought in, about 25 Rebel soldiers, 50 contrabands, and 100 head of horses and mules. It marched over one hundred miles.
On the 17th of June, the Regiment again, moved southward, at 8 P. M., with six days rations. The night was rainy and intensely dark. One section of Tamrath's Battery was with us, under Lieut. Bruner. Marched all night in the dark and rain. It was such bad traveling, that we only moved twelve miles by sunrise of the 18th. Halted and fed at old "Secession Hopkins'," where the Regiment had already fed four times. Reached Ripley at 1 P. M., and found no enemy, but were told that 1,500 Rebels were moving around, to get between us and Pocahontas. We moved back two miles, and halted to feed. Here we were joined by 125 men of the 5th Ohio Cavalry, Major Smith commanding, and 180 of the 18th Missouri Mounted Infantry, commanded by Lieut. Col. Sheldon. Our whole force now numbered a little over 600: 5th Ohio Cavalry 125, 18th Missouri Mounted Infantry 180, Section of Battery 50, 9th Ill. Mounted Inft. 275. Total, 630.
Lieut. Col. Phillips, senior officer present, assumed command of the whole force. We moved back five miles and bivouacked for the night. Finding no enemy, we moved forward again by daylight of the 19th. Passed through Ripley at 8 A. M., and New Albany at 2 P. M. Captured Lieut. Col. McCarly of the 23d Mississippi, below Ripley. Drove in the videttes of the enemy at New Albany, and moved forward on the Pontotoc road. When within six miles of the latter place, Lieut. Col. Phillips having gone as far as his orders permitted him, moved five miles West, and then moved North towards Rockford. Marched until after midnight of the 19th, having to cross a terrible swamp, called the Octohatchie. We bivouacked for the night on a ridge between Octohatchie and Mud Creek. Moved forward again at 7 A. M., of the 20th, 5th Ohio occupying the rear, and 18th Missouri the advance. While we were preparing a crossing of Mud Creek, the enemy, 3,000 strong, under Gen. Ruggles, made a furious attack upon the rear guard, but were most gallantly met and checked by the 5th Ohio Cavalry. Six companies of the 9th Ill. Inft. were dismounted, and deployed as skirmishers. They, and the 5th Ohio Cavalry, held the enemy in check for two and a-half hours, until the artillery had crossed the several most wretched fords of Mud Creek. One of the caissons getting stuck in the mud, we were compelled to leave one-half of it there, and as it completely blocked up the crossing, we had to destroy the five baggage wagons that were behind it, to prevent their falling into the hands of the enemy; everything we could possibly save, being brought over the ford. We fell back rapidly, and got possession of Rocky Ford, before the Rebels got around, and succeeded in crossing before they could molest us.
Our loss in this engagement, was 5 killed and 18 wounded. The loss of the enemy could not be definitely ascertained, but was not less than 200 in killed, wounded and missing.
The place where this battle was fought, was a dense cane-brake. Men could not see each other more than a few feet. Our men could hear every command given by the Rebel officers, but could not see the enemy.
After getting safely out of that terrible bottom, and crossing the Tallahatchie at Rocky Ford, we moved through Salem, on the 21st, and reached camp at Pocahontas, at noon of the 22d June. The Regiment was out six days, during this trip. Had to endure some very hard marching. Marched almost constantly, day and night.
On the 23d of June, 2d Assistant Surgeon Dr. Allen, was ordered to report at LaGrange, Tenn., by Surgeon Gay, Medical Director left wing 16th Army Corps, and left for that place on the 24th.
On the 6th of July, Companies A, C, E, F, G, H and I, under the command of Lieut. Col. Phillips, moved North-west on a scout, and returned on the 7th at noon, not having found any force of the enemy.
On the 8th of July, the entire Regiment moved Northward, with three days rations, 35 miles, and returned on the 9th without finding any force of the enemy. Brought in a number of citizens as prisoners, with all the horses and mules, of any value, that could be found. Rabid secessionists followed after, pleading for their animals. Col. Phillips would tell them that he was a kind-hearted man, had a number of prisoners, and did not wish to have them walk. Hence, he must have their horses and mules. He expressed sorrow for the necessity. It is a question whether that sorrow was very deep down, however, as he has no mercy on Rebels, and takes all the horses and mules from them, that he can place his hands upon, without much trouble of conscience.
On the 12th of July, the Regiment again moved in a North-west direction, with five days rations. Joined Col. Hatch's force from LaGrange, North of Bolivar, and the combined force moved to Jackson, and on the 13th engaged a Rebel force there, under Forrest, Newsom, and Biffle. Our Regiment was dismounted as skirmishers. After brisk firing for one-quarter of an hour, we dislodged them. The cavalry then moved over the river and took the flank of the skirmish line. The right wing of our Regiment were recalled from their position on the South side of the creek, and placed in reserve of the left wing. We then moved rapidly forward, until within a few hundred yards of their fortifications, when we made a charge upon their works and drove them out, by a charge from our skirmish line. We moved forward, thinking that they had left. But when in the suburbs of the North side of the town, the Rebel cavalry came charging down on us from the North-east and East parts of the town. We quickly formed in line facing them, and went into them with a fierceness that they could not long stand. In about fifteen minutes they were driven entirely from the field, and we advanced to their position. We captured a goodly number of horses and muskets they were compelled to leave. One Rebel Captain was found dead on the field. A prisoner who was captured, said he was a notorious guerrilla chieftain, and hated by their own men. Said there would not be much sorrow for his death. The fighting in all lasted about two and a-half hours.
We captured about 70 prisoners, 30 of whom were paroled, the remainder were brought into camp. Our loss was one killed and six wounded. The enemy's loss in killed and wounded, was about two hundred. The Regiment returned to camp about 1 P. M., of the 15th, having been out four days.
On the 18th, six companies, under command of Lieut. Col. Phillips, started on a scout about dark, after a party of guerrillas who had made a dash upon some of the Home Guards at Middleton, killing and taking prisoners several of them. They pursued them all night, in the direction of Bolivar, but could not find them. Returned to camp about noon the next day.
On the 20th of July, the Regiment moved South, accompanied by two guns of Tamrath's Battery. At Hopkins we were joined by the 11th Ill. Cavalry, commanded by Major Kerr. Moved on to within three miles of Ripley, and bivouacked at the forks of the Nubbin Ridge and Ruckersville road. Two companies of Cavalry and two companies of Mounted Infantry were sent towards Ripley to reconnoiter. Discovering no enemy, they soon returned. On the 21st, the command moved back seven miles to Ruckersville, and there awaited orders from Corinth. We moved forward again on the 22d, at 3 A. M. Halted at Ripley two hours. Captured two prisoners, and then moved back to camp at Pocahontas.
The Regiment moved North-west, at daylight on the 20th of July, with eight days rations. It joined Col. Hatch's command, North of Bolivar, at 8:30 P. M., of the same day. After the Regiment was formed, before marching, a brief prayer was offered by the writer, who was then present with the Regiment. Bivouacked for the night, ten miles North of Bolivar. On the 27th, Lieut. Col. Phillips was ordered to the command of a Brigade, consisting of the 9th Ill. Inft. and 3d Michigan Cavalry, and Captain G. G. Lowe took command of the Regiment. We joined Col. Prowitt's command at Lexington, Tenn., on the 28th. Passed through Clarksville, a Union town, to-day. Had captured a goodly number of mules and negroes, and about 100 prisoners up to this date. Among the latter were two Colonels. Passed through Huntingdon on the 29th. A strong Union town. While stopped here, two daughters of Col. Hawkins of the 2d West Tennessee Cavalry, (loyal,) paraded the streets, carrying the stars and stripes. This was cheering to our boys. We lay over most of the 29th at Macedonia. Moved to Trenton on the 31st. Passed through a very rough country, and in a poor state of cultivation. From Trenton we proceeded South, towards Jackson, passing through Jackson on the 1st of August, and reaching camp at Pocahontas on the 3d of August, about 8 P. M.
The Regiment was out, during this scout, nine days. Did not have any engagements with the enemy.
On the 6th of August, Companies A, C, D, E, G, H, I and K, under command of Lieut. Col. Phillips, moved North-west of Bolivar, and returned on the 7th, without finding any forces of the enemy.
On the 12th of August, at 10 P. M., the Regiment moved South, with six days rations. Marched all night, and halted at sunrise and fed. At 6 A. M., of the 13th, we were on the march again. Took the road through Salem, passing that place about 4 P. M., and bivouacking for the night six miles beyond it. Moved forward again at daylight on the 14th, crossing the Tallahatchie at Rocky Ford, and bivouacking for the night. Moved West on the Oxford road, early on the 15th, reaching that place at noon. Here we joined a Brigade from LaGrange. Lieut. Col. Phillips assumed command of the Brigade, and moved on six miles beyond Oxford, on the Coffeeville road, and bivouacked for the night. At daybreak, on the 16th, moved forward again. We were joined to-day, by a Brigade of Cavalry from Germantown and Collierville, under the command of Lieut. Col. M. R. M. Wallace, who being junior officer to Lieut. Col. Phillips, reported his command to him for orders. Lieut. Col. Phillips now assumed command of the whole force, consisting of two Brigades. Lieut. Col. Wallace had command of the 1st Brigade, and Major Coon of the 2d.
The whole force crossed the Tochamy River on a ferry boat, and reached Water Valley at 12 M. Here our advance captured a train of seven six-mule wagons, and a number of prisoners who were guarding the train. The 1st Brigade was so long delayed in crossing the river, that Major Coon, who had command of the 2d Brigade, did not leave Water Valley until 5 P. M. He then moved forward to within two miles of Coffeeville, and bivouacked for the remainder of the night. It was 2 A. M., of the 17th, when we reached that point.
A heavy storm of rain came on shortly after leaving Water Valley, and the night became intensely dark. The darkness made it very difficult to march at all. Often the mules, with their riders, would tumble into the ditches. The 1st Brigade, commanded by Lieut. Col. Wallace, moved only one mile from Water Valley, when the darkness became so intense, that movements were almost impossible. The Brigade was consequently ordered into bivouack for the night. On the morning of the 17th, Lieut. Col. Wallace joined the 2d Brigade at Coffeeville. The entire force now moved forward rapidly towards Grenada, the 11th Ill. Cavalry having the advance. When ten miles from Coffeeville, six or eight locomotives and 40 or 50 cars were captured, and a guard placed over them. When the advance were within four miles of Grenada, the Rebels fired the two large Railroad bridges over the Tallobusha, and before we could reach them, they were completely destroyed. The 11th Ill. Cavalry was ordered forward, as rapidly as possible, to prevent the unnecessary destruction of property; and the entire 2d Brigade moved forward at a brisk trot. When within one mile of town, the 11th Cavalry were checked by about 300 of the enemy. The 9th Ill. Inft. were dismounted and sent forward as skirmishers. Soon after, the 2d Iowa and 3d Michigan Cavalry went into the action. Orders were sent back to Lieut. Col. Wallace to hasten up his Brigade, and move forward with all possible dispatch. As soon as the Battery was placed in position, Col. Wallace was ordered to enter town, with his Brigade, by the lower ford. The enemy not replying to our Battery, Major Coon was ordered to charge across the ford, with the 2d Iowa Cavalry, and at the same time to ferry over a portion of the 9th Ill. Inft. as a support, in case the enemy pressed him too hard. This force crossed and took possession of the town, without further opposition.
The captures which we made, were as follows: 60 locomotives; 450 cars, of all kinds; considerable stores, and $8,000 in Confederate scrip.
As the enemy had burned the bridges across the Tallobusha, making it impossible to run off the rolling stock, the cars, locomotives, machine shops, depots, Commissary and Quartermaster buildings were fired, and destroyed.
At 7 P. M., reports having come in that the enemy were returning to attack us in force, our entire Division, except the Picket and Provost Guard, were ordered to recross the Tallobusha, and bivouack, ready to fall in at a moment's notice. One hour later, Col. Winslow, commanding a Brigade of Cavalry, from "Blackwater," entered the town from the South. He being the ranking officer, now assumed command of the whole force. His Brigade took possession of the place, and the whole force bivouacked for the night.
The entire loss of our Division in the fight, was one man killed and two wounded. The 9th Ill. Inft. had one man wounded.
The 1st Brigade was so far in the rear, at the beginning of the action, that it was not engaged, except Perkin's Battery of Mountain Howitzers.
The entire forces in Lieut. Col. Phillips' command, during this expedition, consisted of the following Regiments, viz: 9th Ill. Inft. (mounted) Captain Kneffner commanding, 300; 2d Iowa Cavalry, Captain —— commanding, 200; 11th Ill. Cavalry, Major Funk commanding, 150; 3d Michigan Cavalry, Major Hudson commanding, 200; Total, 2d Brigade, Major Coon commanding, 850. 9th Ill. Cavalry, —— —— commanding, 250; 3d Ill. Cavalry, Major Connor commanding, 200; 4th Ill. Cavalry, —— —— commanding, 300; Total, 1st Brigade, Lieut. Col. Wallace commanding, 750. Total in Division, Lieut. Col. Phillips commanding, 1,600.
The force of the enemy at Grenada, was between 1,500 and 2,500, and was under command of Col. Slemmer, Gen. Chalmers being, at the time, absent. Major Leath, Gen. Chalmers' Quartermaster, was captured in Grenada, and with him the Confederate scrip mentioned above.
During the action, Col. Winslow, with his Brigade, was in bivouack, within five miles of Grenada, and had he moved on the South rapidly at that time, we would have captured most of the enemy, and his entire Quartermaster train of over 100 wagons.
Lieut. Col. Phillips insisted on pursuing and capturing, at least, their wagon train. But Col. Winslow was in command and not willing. Lieut. Col. Phillips then requested permission to pursue with his command, but was refused. Having command, Col. Winslow ordered the destruction of property to cease. Hence, two locomotives, and about a dozen cars, were left on the North side of the Tallobusha, for the Rebels to run down produce from Water Valley and the country North of them.
The entire command remained in bivouack on the 18th, and moved on the return march, at 5 A. M., on the 19th, taking the Oakland road. Bivouacked for the night, just across the Tochamy River. We moved forward again at 5 A. M., of the 20th. Ferried over the Tallahatchie, and bivouacked for the night seven miles North of it. Moved again at 5 A. M., on the 21st. Col. Winslow and his command left us to-day, for Memphis. Fed near Looxahoma. Bivouacked for the night, near Bucksnort. Moved at the same hour on the 22d. Lieut. Col. Wallace with his command, turned to the left to-day, for his camp at Collierville. We passed through Holly Springs about 4 P. M., to-day, and bivouacked seven miles North-east of town. This is a nice town, on an elevated situation, with some very fine buildings in it. Guards were placed at each of the houses. Many ladies made their appearance, as our boys passed along the street. Some of them looked on smilingly, while others manifested scornful contempt, in their very looks. But what did our boys care for their scorn? They only smiled the more. The sight which the citizens beheld, as our forces passed, was no doubt to them a sore one. A long train of negroes, men, women and children were accompanying us. At last $1,000,000 worth of property, as slaves had formerly been rated, was leaving them. They had long been accustomed to regard these persons as the great source of their wealth. This war had been instigated for the purpose of riveting the chains of bondage more tightly upon these slaves. Many of them, perhaps, had been called upon to mourn the death of some dear friend, who had been slain in waging this war. They had thought thus to make more secure this species of their wealth. But now they were compelled to see it taking to itself legs and fleeing away.
Our boys arrived in camp at Pocahontas on the 24th of August, after having been out thirteen days. They left camp with six days rations. Where did the other seven days rations come from? I suppose none of the boys can tell! Perhaps, if the smoke-houses and hen-roosts of the citizens along the way could speak, they might tell. Or, may be, even the citizens themselves, if any one should take the trouble to travel along and enquire of them, could tell something about it.
The expedition was certainly a grand success. Some raids, about which much has been said and written, were of far less importance. It was a bold dash, of more than one hundred miles, into the midst of the enemy's country. Our forces met on their own chosen ground, at least an equal, and it is thought, a greatly superior force of the enemy; drove them from their position, after a smart skirmish; captured a large amount of their stores, with about fifty prisoners. About $8,000,000 worth of public property was destroyed. Destroyed because two long bridges on the Railroad had been burned by the enemy. About 500 head of horses and mules were captured. And at least 2,000 negroes were brought in with our forces; thus weakening the hands of our enemies, and obtaining that, by which to strengthen our own hands. These, as slaves were formerly valued, were worth at least $2,000,000. The entire Union loss was only one man killed and two wounded. Had there been a special correspondent with our forces, it would have been heralded in the newspapers with a flourish that might have resulted in a star on our worthy Lieut. Col. Phillips, who commanded the expedition. The material, at least, was there.
Charles Chevi, 2d Lieutenant of Company C, resigned, and his resignation was accepted, to take effect August 7th, 1863.
August 26th, the Regiment was paid by Major W. H. Johnston, for the months of March, April, May and June.
August 29th, Captains Kneffner and Robinson, and Lieuts. Rollmann and Cowgill, were ordered to report to Col. Alexander, at St. Louis, for duty in the Invalid Corps.
At the regular periodical muster and inspection, on the 31st of August, Captain G. G. Lowe acted as Inspecting and Mustering Officer.
September 3d, 1863, 1st Lieutenant George W. Williford, was commissioned and mustered as Captain of Company F.
September 4th, 1863, Rev. Marion Morrison reported for duty, with commission as Chaplain of the Regiment. He was mustered in as such, to date from the 4th.
On the 3d of August, 1863, 105 deserters, mostly from the 128th Ill. Inft., were assigned to duty in the 9th Ill. Vol. Inft., and were transferred to the various companies, so as to equalize the strength of those companies.
On the 6th of August, Lieutenant McClure, commanding detachment of the 128th Ill. Vol., reported his men, in compliance with orders from Headquarters 16th Army Corps, to the Regiment for duty. The detachment numbered 103 men, and were assigned, pro rata, to the several companies. Lieutenant Lenma, Adjutant of the 128th, was assigned to Company F, and Lieutenant Cooper to Company B, until further orders. In the order for consolidation, Lieutenant Lenma's name was dropped, (he having resigned,) and Lieutenant Cooper was transferred from Company B to Company F.
On the 16th of August, 1863, 1st Lieutenant Krebs received a commission as Captain of Company D, and Orderly Sergeant H. Weber as 1st Lieutenant Company D, and both were mustered in from that date.
When the writer reported to the Regiment for duty, on the 4th of September, as above noticed, the Regiment was in command of Captain G. G. Lowe, Lieut. Col. Phillips having been summoned to Memphis, as a witness before a court martial in the case of Lieut. Col. Bowen of the 10th Mo. Cavalry. Lieut. Col. Phillips was detained there for two or three weeks, and Captain Lowe continued in command of the Regiment, with credit to himself.
After joining the Regiment, arrangements were made for regular preaching services on each Sabbath, and prayer-meetings on Sabbath and Wednesday evenings. I would here say, that we have been able notwithstanding the great amount of scouting duty the Regiment has had to perform, to hold our regular services on almost every Sabbath, up to the present time, except the few weeks I was absent from the Regiment, on orders, in Illinois. The Regiment had been without a Chaplain for about 20 months. For several Sabbaths we held our services under the shades of the trees in front of the Colonel's quarters. Soon, however, some of the soldiers volunteered their services, and erected a comfortable chapel, 40 by 24 feet, in which to hold our meetings. We had occupied this but a few Sabbaths, when we moved from our old camp at Pocahontas.
During the first three weeks of September, from one to four companies were out scouting, almost daily. Gen. Chalmers was concentrating a force South of the Memphis and Charleston Railroad, to make a dash upon that road, and cut off communication between Memphis and Corinth.
On the 27th of September, the Regiment, under command of Lieut. Col. Phillips, who had rejoined it, moved South toward New Albany. On arriving within six miles of that place, he found the enemy too strong for a further safe advance with the force he had, and returned to camp at Pocahontas on the 29th.
On the 2d of October, the Regiment moved North on a scout. Found and engaged a small force of the enemy, on Forked Deer River. In this engagement, Private Peterson, of Co. K, was killed. Finding no more force of the enemy, the Regiment returned to camp at Pocahontas on the 4th of October.
During the latter part of September and the first week in October, there was much talk that we would be removed, and take up the march somewhere. Gen. Sherman's forces from Vicksburg, were constantly passing towards Corinth, for two or three weeks. It was reported that they would take the place of the 16th Army Corps in occupying Memphis and Corinth and the Railroad between them; and that our Corps would move into an active campaign. Thus we were kept, as soldiers often are, in suspense from day to day. Not knowing what a day might bring forth. In the meantime Sherman's forces passed on towards Chattanooga, and we were still in our old quarters.
As the weather was now becoming too cold for the airy tents, which most of the Regiment occupied, the boys went to the timber, split boards, hauled poles, &c., and put themselves up comfortable quarters. Brick chimneys, left where houses had been burnt through the country, were torn down and brought into camp, and neat little chimneys built to their shanties. Thus the boys were preparing for comfortably spending the winter in their camp.
On the 4th of October, commissions arrived, as follows: 2d Lieut. John Mallmann, to be Captain of Company B; 2d Sergt. L. Grieser, to be 1st Lieut. Company B; 1st Lieut. I. Clements, to be Captain Company G; 2d Lieut. N. G. Perrine, to be 1st Lieut. Company G; 1st Lieut. S. T. Hughs, to be Captain of Company I; 2d Lieut. Wm. Paden, to be 1st Lieut. Company I; Com. Sergt. C. A. Spatee, to be Regimental Quartermaster. Of the above, the following were ordered on duty, in their new rank, viz: Grieser, Clements, Perrine and Spatee.
On the 6th of October, the Regiment, under command of Lieut. Col. Phillips, moved South towards Ripley, on the Jonesborough road, and bivouacked for the night at Ruckersville. Moved forward again at daylight on the 7th, and reached Ripley at 8:30 A. M., and at 9:30 moved North-west towards Salem. When within five miles of that place, an advance was sent out, which ascertained that the enemy were in Salem about 3,000 strong. It was determined by Lieut. Col. Phillips, to attack them on the morning of the 8th, although his force did not exceed 400 men. Hence, early in the morning, one company was sent rapidly forward, and drove in their pickets and developed their forces. This done and they fell back. Soon after, the Regiment moved forward in force. Arriving at the town, it was found that Col. McCrillis was there with his Regiment of cavalry, and that the Rebels had fallen back out of town. It was soon ascertained, however, that their falling back was not a retreat, but a pretense, and that they were preparing to attack us. Hence, the 9th Ill. Inft. was dismounted and deployed as skirmishers, and the two guns of Tamrath's Battery accompanying the Regiment, were placed in position, and opened upon the enemy. In a very short time the enemy made a vigorous effort to drive us, but failed. After engaging this vastly superior force for three hours, and our ammunition failing, we fell back on to the Railroad at LaGrange, and were reinforced. Five of our men were killed and twenty wounded in this engagement.
After reaching LaGrange, a dispatch was sent into camp, for all the men in camp fit for duty, to join the Regiment at that place. Reinforcements were now secured and preparations made for driving the enemy back, or cutting off his retreat. On the 11th of October, the Regiment, together with Col. Hatch's mounted force, moved South-west. Had an engagement with the enemy at Graham's Mills, and another at Wyatt's, defeating them in both engagements and driving them Southward, after severe skirmishing.
Our entire mounted force was commanded by Col. Hatch, the Brigade by Lieut. Col. Phillips, and the Regiment by Captain A. G. Hawes. In these two last engagements, the 9th Ill. lost one man killed and five wounded.
The following is a list of the killed and wounded in the various engagements, since the Regiment was mounted on the 20th of March, 1863.
Company A.—At Jackson, Tenn., Killed, Konrad Schaeffer; Wounded, Sergt. Michael Hartweek, Privates Charles Harris and George Heiler.—1 killed and 3 wounded.
Company B.—Cherokee Bluffs, Miss., Wounded, Gustar Blank; Mud Creek, Miss., John Snider; Salem, Miss., James Luston; Wyatt's, Miss., Killed, William Toliver; Wounded, 1st Lieut. Louis Grieser, Private Wm. Crum. In all, 1 killed and 5 wounded.
Company C.—Mud Creek, Miss., Killed, Sergt. Charles Ehrlich, Private George Valler, Wounded, Sergt. Wm. Heser, and Private Eilb Menson; Jackson, Tenn., Sergt. Engen A. Hauke; Salem, Miss., Corp. Wm. Striegal, and Private G. M. Smith; Athens, Ala., Samuel Spring. In all, 2 killed and 6 wounded.
Company D.—Salem, Miss., Killed, G. W. Hatfield, Wounded, Chrst. Lambe. One killed and one wounded.
Company E.—Mud Creek, Miss., Wounded, Charles B. Fleming, Wm. M. Gery and Ephraim J. Tyler; Salem, Miss., Jas. Stewart and Wm. Mock. In all, 5 wounded.
Company F.—Salem, Miss., Killed, Thos. Ellison.
Company G.—Mud Creek, Miss., Henry Brown and Jonathan Hampton; Salem, Miss., Wm. Cheneworth and Jas. M. Newton. In all, 4 wounded.
Company H.—Salem, Miss., Francis M. Strickle, Ahiron D. Simons, Benj. R. Felts; Florence, Ala., Wm. H. Neal. In all, 4 wounded.
Company I.—Mud Creek, Miss., Wounded, Lieut. S. T. Hughs, Chas. S. Patton; Grenada, Miss., S. P. Irwin; Jackson, Tenn., Oliver Hays; Salem, Miss., Killed, E. K. Richards, Wounded, Richard Jordon; Wyatt's, Miss., John Graham; Athens, Ala., M. D. Holcomb. In all, 1 killed and 7 wounded.
Company K.—Montezuma, Tenn., Killed, John M. Peterson; Salem, Miss., John Q. Martin, Wounded, Lieut. Ulen and Peter Hall. In all, 2 killed and 2 wounded.
A number of incidents of interest, occurred during the period covered by this chapter.
When on a scout to Tupelo, the boys were feeding near the house of a citizen. A woman came to Col. Phillips to make complaints that one of her horses had been taken, and a negro man or two had left her and was following our forces away. The Col. very politely told her, (for he is always polite to the ladies, unless they cease to act the lady,) that he was sorry for her, but that it was his business to keep the Rebels out of that country, so that they might not molest peaceable citizens like her. In order to do this, he must have horses to mount his men. Hence, from military necessity he must take her horse. That more effectually to accomplish the work of clearing the Rebels out of the country, the Government had resolved to arm the negroes and make soldiers of them. Hence, he must take her negroes also. Finding she could accomplish nothing by her entreaties with the Col., she was returning to the house, when she saw that they were taking her corn to feed their animals. Some of the boys were also chasing her chickens, and they were rapidly decreasing in numbers. She now set up a terrible lamentation, and commenced praying that God would send the Yankees out of the country. In the warmth of her petitions, she used the following forcible language: "O, Lord, if you can't come yourself, just now, do send General Price with his great army, to drive these miserable Yankees out of the country." Until this petition was uttered, some of the boys felt a sympathy for her. But the utterance of it, seemed to drive away both their sympathy and their gravity. The Col. finally sent an orderly, telling her to go into the house and finish her prayers.
Another. When on a scout near Ripley, Miss., the Regiment were in camp, and, as usual, helping themselves to the contents of a corn-crib, that thereby they might strengthen their mules for the heavy duties laid upon them. A woman appeared, with the usual cry, that she was a "poor lone widow, with six orphan children," and requested the Col. to leave her corn enough to make her bread until she could raise more. The Col. assured her that they would leave her some corn. In a short time, one of the girls came out, with the cry, "O, Col., the soldiers are taking every bit of our corn, and we will all starve." The Col. gave orders to the Adjutant to have a guard placed at that woman's corn, and instruct it to see that some of that corn was left. The Adjutant detailed a guard. In the meantime, it had been ascertained that the family had a lot of wheat; and although it might be hard for a Southern family to live without corn bread, still it was supposed that if they had wheat-bread, they would not starve. Hence, as corn to feed upon was scarce, the Adjutant, in instructing the guard to see that some of that corn was left, gave him a knowing wink, which he well understood. Some of the corn was left. But it was simply a little shelled corn in the bottom of the crib. One of the girls having made a reconnoisance to the corn-crib, to see how things were getting along there, and made the discovery that it was all gone, came back running and crying, "Oh, mother, mother; they have taken every bit of our corn, and now we will have nothing to eat but wheat-bread. What will we do."
Still another. It was almost a daily, and often an hourly occurrence for citizens to visit the Col. at his Head Quarters, to endeavor to get back a horse or mule that had been captured. One day two ladies had visited him for that purpose. While they were engaged in reasoning the matter with him, dinner was announced. He invited them to go out and eat dinner with him. The invitation was accepted. The cook, or Doctor, or some one, expecting that they would be there for dinner, set a bottle of liquor on the table. After dinner was over, the Colonel politely invited them to take a drink. After some little hesitation, they each took their glass of liquor. The Colonel, always supplied with cigars, took his cigar-case from his pocket, and reached it to them. They each took a cigar, lit it at the cook's fire, and sat down and deliberately smoked it. In the North, to smoke in the presence of ladies is considered the greatest impoliteness. Not so in the South, however.
One more. When on the return from the raid to Grenada, Miss., the Regiment passed through Holly Springs. There was some apprehension that there might be a disposition on the part of some of the soldiers to fire the town, owing to treatment received from the citizens on a former occasion. Hence, a guard was placed at each house, until the forces should pass through. Surgeon Gulick desiring some water for sick men, started to go into a yard to get it, but the guard would not allow him to pass in. He handed his canteen to a colored man in the yard, requesting him to fill it with water. While he was doing it, a woman came from the house, much excited. Coming towards the Doctor, she inquired, "Is there a Mason here?"
Doctor.—"Why, madame, what do you wish?"
Mad. M.—"I am the widow of a Mason. I wish to know if there is a Mason here. I wish protection."
Doctor.—"Madame, you had better go into the house. You do not need protection. There is a guard around your house."
During this conversation, a chicken, from some cause ran through the fence into the street. A soldier started after it, to catch it. The Doctor's companion seized a long club, and quickly got over the fence and after the soldier. Unobserved, she came upon him, when about to catch the chicken, and struck him a heavy blow over the head. This he did not resist, as it was from a woman. But after the second blow, he supposed that "forbearance ceased to be a virtue," even if a woman was involved. The Doctor says he was scared when he saw her seize the club and climb the fence. He supposed she was coming at him.
Still another. At the same time and place with the last, a lady whose horse had been taken, came out to Col. Phillips, very pleasant, and announced herself as a daughter of Gen. Bradshaw; took the Colonel's horse by the bridle, and told him that she would be servant for him, and he had to submit to having her lead his horse up to her gate. She invited him to go in and have something to drink. He could not well refuse her invitation, even if he had desired to. Once in the house, she told him that she had both wine and whisky. Said she did not know how it was with our officers, but theirs all preferred the whisky. The Colonel told her that he would not be an exception, and so helped himself to a portion of the whisky.
Another one yet. During the raid on Florence, when the town was being searched, and contraband goods taken, tobacco and wine were both regarded as contrabands of war. Considerable quantities of both were found in the town. Dr. Allen tells of one soldier whom he saw with three boxes of tobacco on his mule before him. Having more than he could well carry, and meeting a citizen on the street, proposed to give him a box. Another, whom he met, had three or four boxes of bottles of wine on before him. Being rather overburdened, he made a present of one box to the Doctor, which he accepted, I suppose, as hospital stores.
Another on Dr. Gulick. I hope the good natured Doctor will pardon me for using his name so frequently in this connection. When on the return march from the raid to Grenada, Miss., as has been stated, there was a drove of about 2,000 negroes followed the returning column. They were of all ages, and both sexes. Old grey headed grandfathers and grandmothers were there. Men and women in the vigor of life were there. Prattling little boys and little girls were there. Suckling babes were there also. This great crowd of colored people were there, some of them pretty well clad, others almost naked. It is described as a sight sufficient to touch the heart of any one. Mothers were there, traveling on foot a journey of 75 to 100 miles, carrying their infant children. Two or three of these mothers, overcome with traveling to keep up with a mounted force, carrying their children, actually laid them down by the road side, and pressed on to liberty. "Can a mother forget her sucking child?" Some of these poor creatures seemed willing to leave their children behind, rather than be left themselves, hoping, perhaps, that some "good Samaritan" would care for them. The Doctor, kind-hearted man, finding one of these little ones, alighted and picked it up, and as some of the boys passed him, was dandling the child. He placed it in his ambulance, and when they halted, he found its mother. All praise to the Doctor for this humane act.
Another fact, closely connected with this rebellion, for the suppression of which our Regiment has so nobly contended. While in camp at Pocahontas, the writer took the pains to ascertain some facts with reference to the education of the citizens. When we had been in camp about three months, I called at the Provost Marshal's office, and ascertained that 1,520 citizens had taken the oath of allegiance, that they might make purchases of coffee, salt, &c. from our Commissary. Of the above number, just 300 could write their own names. The other 1,220 had to have their names written and make their mark. At another point where the Regiment was in camp, on the Tennessee River, out of 313 who took the oath in one day, only 13 could write their own names. The remaining 300 had to make their mark.
Now, looking at these facts, and if they are anything like an approximation even, to the state of society in the South, need we any longer wonder at this rebellion? A few well informed and designing leaders can go into a community, such as the above facts indicate, and influence its inhabitants to almost any course of action they may desire.
CHAPTER VII.
FROM THE TIME OF LEAVING POCAHONTAS TO THE PRESENT.
Orders to move camp—March to Eastport—Regiment detached for scouting duty—From Eastport to Pulaski—Pulaski to Athens—Scouting along the Tennessee—Going into quarters—Roddy's Raid—Scout below Florence.
As stated in the preceding chapter, there had been much said about our Regiment leaving camp and being thrown out into an active campaign; that that excitement had passed away, and the boys had prepared themselves with comfortable quarters in which to spend the winter.
When thus comfortably fixed for living during the winter, orders came for the Regiment to be ready to move on the morning of October 30th. Thus the comfortable little dwellings prepared by the boys; the chapel prepared for our religious services; the new hospital just finished, and such like comforts were all left behind. But such is the common lot of soldiers. They have a very uncertain life before them. They know not to-day, where they shall be on to-morrow. The order was to conduct a Battery to Corinth. Whence, from there, we knew not.
The morning of October 30th came, and with it heavy clouds, threatening rain. Baggage must be packed up. Tents must be struck. Wagons must be loaded. By about 8 ½ A. M., all was ready, and we were on the march. About the time we started, it commenced raining, and rained heavily all day. This made it difficult for the Battery wagons to proceed rapidly. Came to Cypress Creek and bottom. The stream was very difficult to cross. There was a swampy bottom, of three miles, which we had to cross. The Battery did not get through it that night, but camped in the bottom. The right wing of the Regiment moved out to the ridge beyond, and there awaited the arrival of Battery and left wing. It being found they could not get through that night, all went into bivouack until morning. At an early hour on the morning of the 31st, the Regiment and Battery were on the move. We reached Corinth about 1 P. M., of the 31st. Here we were relieved as escort to the Battery. Went into camp in the barracks lately occupied by the 50th Ill. Regiment. Here we remained until the morning of the 3d of November.
On the 2d of November, we were mustered for pay. Received orders on the 2d, to move the next morning, as escort to a train, to Iuka. Orders were issued regulating the order of march. There was a train of about 200 wagons and ambulances. The advance was ordered to move at 4 A. M., and the rear at 6 A. M. The whole was under command of Lieut. Col. Phillips. Such was the promptness with which he had each part of the column to occupy its position, that when the rear moved, and he went to the telegraph office to dispatch to Gen. Dodge that all were moving, it lacked ten minutes of six o'clock. Moved on steadily until noon. Halted one hour to water and rest. At 5 P. M., we reached Iuka, a distance of 25 miles. It was regarded a very speedy trip for so long a train. We bivouacked for the night, near Iuka. On the morning of the 4th of November, we moved at 10 A. M., as escort to a train of 150 wagons, to the crossing of the Tennessee River at Eastport. We arrived at Eastport at 2 P. M.
Gen. Dodge's orders to Lieut. Col. Phillips, commanding the 9th Ill. Inft., was, that immediately upon his arrival at Eastport, he should leave the train, together with his own Regimental teams on this side, and ferry the Regiment across the river, so as to be ready to move as early as practicable on the following day. The Regiment was all across by about sundown, and bivouacked one-half mile from the river.
Our Regiment, Lieut. Col. Phillips commanding, was ordered on detached duty, and thus separated from the 2d Brigade, to which it properly belonged.
I might here state that the whole of the 2d Division of the 16th Army Corps, under command of Gen. Sweeney, Gen. Dodge being the department commander, had taken up the march from Corinth on the 2d and 3d of November, and was engaged in being ferried across the Tennessee River at Eastport.
Gen. Dodge's order, detaching the 9th Ill. Inft., assigned it to scouting and foraging for animals. The Division teams needed recruiting. Horses and mules must be procured in the country through which we were about to march, for this purpose. Gen. Sherman had lately marched his army through the same country, and it was very naturally supposed that animals would be scarce. Hence, a part of the order to our Regiment was to gather up all the horses, mules, cattle and sheep that could be found in the country. It was further ascertained that portions of Rebel cavalry had crossed North of the Tennessee River, to annoy our forces on their march. Hence, an additional duty assigned to the 9th Ill. was to make reconnoisances and watch the movements of the enemy.
On the night of the 4th, Lieut. Col. Phillips issued orders to be ready to move at 6 A. M., the next morning. He also issued orders detailing one non-commissioned officer and six men from each company for foraging purposes, and instructing the foragers to bring in all horses, mules, cattle and sheep that could be found on our route. All soldiers were forbidden to leave the ranks, except such as were detailed for that purpose.
On the morning of the 5th of October, the Regiment was on the march by daybreak. Took the Florence road, for about three miles. Turned North, and traveled about ten miles through a poor, rough, broken country. Halted to make inquiry as to the country. Found a good Union man, with a clever family. Had the old man to go with us, as a guide. The Regiment here separated and traveled two different roads. About noon the flankers of the right wing were fired on, near a house. A number of shots were fired. Several horses and some cattle were taken. Halted to feed, two hours. During that time the left wing came in. All having fed, we took up the march again. Proceeded in the direction of Florence. Bivouacked for the night, after dark, about 14 miles from Florence. It had rained almost constantly during the day. Was still raining some when we halted. There was a fair prospect for a disagreeable night for laying out. But it did not rain much during the night. We brought in two men as prisoners, and about forty head of horses and mules, with some cattle.
November 6th, the Regiment moved at sunrise, bearing South. At 2 P. M., we came into a rich country. Plantations large; abundance of negroes; stock was plenty, which was gathered up. At many of the plantations we would collect 20 or 25 mules. Halted two or three hours and gathered up stock and fed. We then moved five or six miles West, and bivouacked for the night near a house owned by a large planter. The woman applied for protection. No one was allowed to enter the house. Negroes came in from different plantations. Through them we gathered much information as to the whereabouts of stock. Did not leave camp until about 11 A. M., of the 7th November. Sent out companies in different directions, to forage for stock. Succeeded in gathering a large amount of it. We were here South of the road leading from Eastport to Florence. We had crossed that road on the afternoon of the 6th.
During both the days we were out, we could frequently hear of forces of the Rebel cavalry on the North side of the river. They were often very near us, but always kept out of our way.
November 7th, at 11 A. M., we took up our march to strike the Florence road, hoping to meet the Brigade. We met them, and reported 300 head of horses and mules, 250 head of cattle, and 200 head of sheep, which we brought in and turned over. We met the column about 2 P. M., and bivouacked near a large brick house, residence of Captain Boggs.
The Regiment was now ordered to draw five days rations, and scout on the left flank of the advancing column. The main column, consisting of the 2d Division, 16th Army Corps, proceeded in the direction of Pulaski, Tenn., leaving Florence about eight miles to the right. On the march Col. Mersy, commanding 2d Brigade, had orders to burn a large Cotton Factory, which was being run by orders from the Southern Confederacy. The factory, together with the raw cotton, was worth about $100,000. The whole establishment was consigned to the flames on the morning of the 10th of November.
When the 9th Ill. Inft. left the advancing column, on the morning of the 8th, it proceeded in the direction of Waynesboro, and bivouacked twelve miles North-east of Waynesboro, and twenty miles from Gravelly Springs. Moved forward again early on the morning of the 9th, and marched thirty-five miles, bivouacking near Lawrenceburg. We moved again on the morning of the 10th, traversing the country to see that no Rebel forces were there to molest the column. We passed through Mt. Pleasant. Bivouacked for the night five miles from Columbia, near the residence of Bishop (now Rebel General) Polk's residence. On the morning of the 11th, moved into Columbia, and proceeded in the direction of Pulaski, Tenn. Bivouacked two and a half miles from Pulaski. On the morning of the 12th, moved into Pulaski, and joined the column.
During this scout of four days, part of our business still being to collect stock, we brought in 500 head of horses and mules. Passed through some very fine and well improved country. There was no opposition met from the enemy, worth noting.
From the time of leaving camp at Pocahontas, up to our arrival at Pulaski, we supposed (at least the uninitiated) that our whole force was moving on in the direction of Chattanooga, and that was our destination. We expected soon to reach that place and take part in the great battle pending there. But on arriving at Pulaski, Gen. Dodge established his Head Quarters there, and his command were stationed along the Railroad running from Nashville to Decatur, to repair the road for use. The 2d Brigade, with the exception of the 9th Ill. Inft., went into camp at Pulaski. The 9th was still ordered on detached duty, and sent to establish a post at Athens, Alabama.
On the afternoon of the 12th of November, we moved South of Pulaski, along the line of the Railroad, and bivouacked nine miles from Pulaski, near where the Ohio Brigade were in bivouack. Here the men were ordered to draw five days rations, in their haversacks. They were also notified that our train and baggage would be left behind, and to make a change of clothing if they desired it.
On the morning of the 13th of November, we moved at daylight, Southward, leaving our wagons, baggage, and hospital to proceed with the Ohio Brigade to Prospect, where that Brigade was to be stationed. At Prospect, we forded the Elk River. When the advance reached the river, and were looking for a ford, some Rebel soldiers were seen on the opposite side, and fired upon. They interposed no obstacle to our crossing, however. After crossing the river, one battalion, under command of Captain Lowe, proceeded by a circuitous and Westerly route. The remainder of the Regiment proceeded by the direct route to Athens, Ala., arriving there before sunset. A few miles North of the town, one man of Company G, was taken prisoner when out foraging, by a few Rebel soldiers who were in the neighborhood. A small force of Rebel cavalry had occupied Athens on that day, but they speedily left on our arrival. The advance of our column came very rapidly into town, pursuing the party who had captured our man. They were pursued some distance through the town. On our arrival, Lieut. Col. Phillips, who was in command of the Regiment during the entire march, took possession of the town. Captain I. Clements was appointed as Provost Marshal, with his Company (G) as Provost Guard. Captain Lowe, with his battalion, reached Athens sometime after dark.
The Regiment went into bivouack in different parts of the town. Col. Phillips made his Head Quarters in the Court House.
On the morning of the 14th of November, the entire Regiment, under command of Lieut. Col. Phillips, moved South towards Decatur. Proceeded to the bank of the river opposite Decatur, and reconnoitered the position. Found the Rebels were occupying the town, and had a Battery of two guns. We moved back two miles, halted and fed. Parties were sent in different directions to reconnoiter. The entire Regiment returned to Athens the same evening, and bivouacked as on the previous night.
On the morning of the 15th of November, the Regiment moved out one mile North-east of town, and went into camp. Here we remained until the morning of the 18th, simply sending out single companies each day to reconnoiter.
One object of our expedition was to examine the condition of the Railroad and telegraph line. On leaving Pulaski, Lieut. Oats, with twelve men, was detailed for that purpose. He proceeded along the line of the Railroad from Pulaski to Decatur, examining carefully its condition. The writer was requested by Lieut. Col. Phillips to accompany him, and report the condition of the telegraph. We were often separated two or three miles from the main column.
On the evening of the 17th, a portion of the teams came down from Pulaski, with five days rations, and returned to Prospect the next morning.
On the morning of the 18th November, the entire Regiment moved West, in the direction of Florence. Crossed Elk River, fifteen miles West of Athens, and halted to feed. During the afternoon of this day, when near Rodgersville, the advance were fired upon by a squad of Rebels, who broke and ran. No one hurt. Two companies moved rapidly down to the Tennessee River, at Lamb's Ferry, hoping to capture the boat. But it was on the other side of the river. Moved West on the Florence road, and bivouacked for the night nine miles West of Rodgersville.
November 19th, we moved at daylight, Westward on the Florence road. At Shoal Creek bridge the advance encountered and chased some Rebels, who seemed to be guarding the bridge. Proceeded rapidly with two companies, to Bambridge Ferry, six miles above Florence, and captured the ferry-boat. The Rebels opened fire from the opposite side of the river. Our two companies were deployed as skirmishers, and returned the fire. A brisk fire was kept up for one hour, until the boat was destroyed, when we started on our return march. Re-crossed Shoal Creek. Halted and fed. Mounted and continued our return march. Bivouacked for the night West of Elk River.
We moved again early on the morning of the 20th of November, and returned to Athens about 12 M. Proceeded through town, on the Decatur road, about six miles, halted and fed. From this point four companies returned to Athens, and occupied our old camp. The remainder of the Regiment proceeded to Moorsville. Found a force occupying that place, and returned to camp at Athens on the 21st. On the afternoon of this day, we moved our camp South-west of town.
The country having been completely explored, and considering there was no immediate danger from the enemy, the Col. sent for our teams and baggage. They arrived on the evening of the 21st, and the boys were glad to have a change of clothing.
I would here say, that upon our first coming to Athens, it was not deemed prudent to remove any baggage here, except such as could be carried on our animals. Our Regiment was sent down here all alone, in the midst of an enemy's country. No one knew the exact strength of the enemy. It was fifteen miles to Prospect, where our nearest forces were. The Elk River intervened, and was often past fording. At that time there was no way of crossing it, except on a very small boat which would only carry one wagon. It was a hazardous position we occupied, at best. There was a heavy force of Rebels South of the Tennessee River. There were a number of ferries for crossing at different points. But having reconnoitered the country, and destroyed several of the enemy's ferries, it was thought our train might be brought down with safety.
From the time we left camp at Pocahontas, until our train was brought down, we had been out 23 days, and on the march nearly all the time. During this time, we had with us no tents or covering of any kind, except such as we carried on our animals. We would march all day, often making 40 and 45 miles, and then lay down on the ground at night, with no covering but our blankets. During this time, we marched over 400 miles.
When our train arrived, and our camping ground was determined we had no tents, which could be quickly spread for a shelter. Most of the boys were under the necessity, for several nights, of doing as they had done, sleeping in the open air. Soon lumber was procured, from the fence around the Fair Grounds and the buildings it contained, and unoccupied stables and fences, with which to build shanties. But we had no nails, and this country could furnish none. But where there were buildings and fences, there were nails, and the old nails were preserved, and thus the boys built their houses. After a time, they were quite comfortable in them. The work of building "New Athens" was, however much retarded by the fact that several companies of the Regiment were almost constantly out on scouting duty. But ere long their houses were finished, with comfortable fire-places attached.
As I have stated above, Lieut. Col. Phillips, with the 9th Ill. Inft., was detached, and sent to Athens to establish a post. It was a strange kind of post for two or three weeks. Much was said about "Col. Phillips' circulating post." After we were settled down in our camp, however, Col. Phillips formally assumed command of the post, with his Head Quarters in town, leaving Major Kuhn in command of the Regiment. Still the post, or its head, was rather circulatory; for whenever the Regiment was out on a scout of any considerable importance, the Col. was sure to go along.
It devolved upon our Regiment not only to hold its post at Athens, but to guard the crossings of the Tennessee River for a distance of not less than fifty miles in length. Consequently, there was a great amount of scouting duty to perform. Almost daily, the various crossings of the Tennessee River, between Decatur and Florence, were visited by portions of our Regiment, and the ferry-boats either destroyed or captured.
On the 28th of November, three companies, under command of Lieut. Col. Phillips, moved West at 11 P. M., on the Florence road, and crossed Elk River, in search of some Rebel cavalry said to have crossed the Tennessee River that evening. He came upon and captured a squad of fifteen of them. Not finding any more force, he was returning to camp the next morning with his prisoners, when he was met by a dispatch from Gen. Dodge, stating that a large body of Rebels had crossed about Florence, and ordering him to reconnoiter and watch their movements, and develop their strength. A squad of men were sent in with the prisoners, with orders for one company more to join him. He had gone out with only one days' rations. The company that joined him could not carry rations to him, for we were short in camp. Our teams had gone to Pulaski for rations. The Division teams from Columbia had not arrived with rations, as expected. Our teams were detained there several days. But the boys of the 9th are not likely to starve, when there is anything in the country around them to eat.
The first night they camped near the town of Rodgersville. The Col. sent orders to the different houses in town, requiring each to supply a certain number of rations of corn bread. Some demurred, saying they had nothing of which to make bread. A second order was sent that if it was not provided in such a length of time, he would burn their houses. This brought corn bread in abundance, but not of a very fine quality. The next night they camped near a good supply of sweet potatoes, to which they helped themselves. The following day they came across a store of Rebel commissaries, and were thus further provided. They were out four days. Came upon a body of Rebels, of whom they captured about thirty. When pursuing them, Col. Phillips was chasing his man, and made a sabre stroke at him, cutting him over the head. About that time, the Col.'s horse fell, and threw him on his face on the frozen ground. He captured his man, however.
On the 25th of January, 1864, Companies B, C, D, F, H, I and K, under command of Lieut. Col. Phillips, moved out on a reconnoisance West. This left but three companies in camp. Company A was doing picket duty. Company G was acting as Provost Guard, and stationed in town. This left Company E in camp alone. News of the weakness of our force was immediately carried over the river, and Gen. Roddy notified of it. Consequently, early on the morning of the 26th of January, about 4 A. M., our camp was attacked by Gen. Roddy, with 700 men and two pieces of artillery. The pickets on the West of our camp were fired upon. Company E moved out promptly to support the pickets, when they met the overwhelming force of the enemy. After a brief engagement, and finding the strength of the enemy, this company fell back into town, to co-operate with Company G. This gave the Rebels possession of our camp. They plundered it of all the baggage and valuables. Our men were pursued into the town, the Rebels occupying the Southern part of the town, and our boys the Northern part. The Rebels also placed their artillery in position, and began to shell the town. After a smart skirmish of about forty minutes, the enemy retreated, and returned towards the river. This they did, although they numbered ten to our one.
The loss of the 9th, in this engagement, was two men wounded, viz: Spring, of Company C, (since dead,) and Holcomb, of Company I. One man, not a soldier, but an employe of our Surgeon, was shot in the hospital yard, although entirely unarmed. The enemy admit a loss of six killed and eighteen wounded. Three of our boys pursued them, and fired upon them when a short distance from the river, killing one and wounding two. They returned to camp safely, except that they lost their horses.
The officers lost all their baggage and effects, except such as they had with them. So with the men.
On the 28th, seven companies, under command of Lieut. Col. Phillips, moved West on the Florence road. Bivouacked for the night, eight miles East of Florence.
Early on the 29th, moved into Florence, chasing some Rebel soldiers from the town. Passed on twelve miles West of Florence, to Pride's Ferry. Here we had a sight of some Rebels, but they made good their escape. We destroyed a factory and mill in this region. Captured a train of about twenty wagons with their teams.
Near this Ferry lives a man named Woods, who is living with a negro woman as his wife. To this Woman he had a large number of children, whom he was holding as slaves. He was holding about forty of his own children as slaves. The Regiment foraged heavily upon him. About 3 P. M., we started on the return march, and bivouacked four miles from Florence. In this region, large numbers of negroes came in, and followed the Regiment on its return march to Athens.
On the morning of the 30th, moved towards Athens, and bivouacked for the night, West of Elk River. On the 31st, reached camp at Athens.
The Regiment was out, during this expedition, four days. It brought in about 500 negroes, men, women and children; 150 head of horses and mules, and 100 head of cattle, besides a train of 20 wagons.
On the 15th of February, the Regiment, under command of Lieut. Col. Phillips, moved to the Tennessee River, at Lucas & Brown's Ferry. The Regiment remained in bivouac during that entire week. Their work was patroling the river for ten or fifteen miles above and below Decatur, capturing flat-boats and ferry-boats, constructing canoes, &c. The weather was very cold. They had no shelter. Had to work much about the water, and withal, it was a very hard week's duty. The Rebels were occupying the other side of the river, and there was almost constant firing at each other across the river. Lieut. Oats, of Co. K, was in a flat-boat with fifteen men, when he was fired upon by about twenty Rebels, at close range. One man of Co. I was severely wounded. The fire was returned, and it is thought, from the noise, several of the enemy were killed and wounded. The Lieutenant captured four Rebel prisoners.
The Regiment returned to camp on the 20th, leaving two companies to patrol the river and guard our boats. During the week of boat capturing, one flat-boat captured above Decatur "ran the blockade" past the town, with three of our boys in it. They lay down flat, and let it float. Many incidents of interest occurred during this week, but I have not room to note them here.
On the 22d of February, the 39th Regiment Ohio Infantry arrived at Athens, and went into camp. Col. Noyes, of the 39th Ohio, assumed command of the post, relieving Lieut. Col. Phillips, who again assumed command of the Regiment.
From the 20th of February, up to the 7th of March, two companies of the 9th Ill. was kept constantly at the Tennessee River, patroling it for several miles below Decatur. These companies were relieved every two days, by others. In the meantime several other regiments passed through Athens, on their way towards Decatur. These were the 63d Ohio, 27th Ohio, 43d Ohio, and 111th Illinois, with the 4th Michigan Battery.
The Railroad was completed about the last week of February, and the cars commenced running through from Nashville. Soon boats to construct a pontoon bridge at Decatur, commenced passing on the cars. Gen. Dodge, who commands the department, was below. Active preparations were being made for occupying Decatur. To do this, the Tennessee River must be crossed, in the face of an opposing foe. The enemy was occupying Decatur, and the South bank of the river at the various ferries below.
The Regiment was paid, by Major Gregory, on the 2d of March, 1864, for the months of November and December. It had been paid on the 16th of December, 1863, by Major Hinkley, for the months of September and October, 1863.
On the morning of the 7th of March, the 9th Ill., together with a detachment of 60 men of the 18th Mo., and two sections of a U. S. Battery, stationed at Athens, received marching orders, and moved at 10 A. M., on the Lucas Ferry road. Arriving within two miles of the river at 2 P. M., they halted and fed, remaining until near dark, when they moved on to the river under cover of darkness.
It was known that an attempt would be made to cross the Tennessee River that night or early the next morning, both at Lucas Ferry and Decatur. The flat-boats, canoes, &c., which the 9th Ill. had for the past two or three weeks been collecting at Lucas Ferry, would now be brought into use. At Decatur, the boats intended for the construction of the pontoon bridge, would be used for crossing. Gen. Dodge was at Decatur superintending the crossing in person. Lieut. Col. Phillips, of the 9th Ill., was in charge of the expedition at Lucas Ferry, which is three miles below Decatur.
The Regiment went into bivouac, after dark, about one hundred yards from the river. The flat-boats and canoes had been moved up the river one mile, so as to have the advantage of the current. Several pontoon boats had been floated down a stream running from the Railroad to a point within a mile or two of the Ferry. These had to be taken across on wagons to the river and up to the point from which the boats were to start. This occupied a portion of the men during the greater part of the night.
Details were made, of three men from each company, who could man a canoe, and four men from each company for boatmen. During the night there was a heavy rain, after which it cleared up, and the stars shone brightly. Before day, however, a very heavy fog settled over the water and surrounding country. This was favorable to our crossing, as a man could not be seen, on the water, only at a very short distance.
About 2 A. M., the artillery was placed in position on the river bank. The forces were ordered into line. The details for canoe men and boatmen received their orders. The advance were to pass over in canoes. They were placed under the command of Lieut. Rollmann, and were instructed to proceed directly across, as rapidly as possible. When they struck the opposite shore, they were to abandon their canoes, and hold the positions until the boats would get over.
The flat-boats and pontoons were placed under the command of Lieut Oats. All were marched up the river to the boats, and at 4:30 A. M., the boats and canoes were loaded and started over. When the advance was within about 30 yards of the shore, the enemy fired a few shots, and retired rapidly in the direction of Courtland. The entire command crossed over in one and a half hours, and reported at Decatur. During the day and night following, the animals and teams were crossed over. Capt. Lowe, who had the crossing of the animals in charge, was attacked by a party of Rebels, and one man was taken prisoner.
The Regiment moved East, on the Courtland road, at 9:30 A. M., March 9th, and reached Courtland at 4 P. M., without meeting any body of the enemy. We bivouacked for the night on the Moulton road, three miles South of Courtland.
On the morning of the 10th of March, we moved into Moulton. The enemy had left the place three hours before our arrival. They moved from Moulton at daylight, on the Russelville road. We captured, at Moulton, several prisoners, one flag, a quantity of ammunition, and hospital and commissary stores. From Moulton, we moved towards Decatur, reaching that place at sundown. There the Regiment was ordered into camp, to be quartered in houses in town.
On the morning of the 11th of March, Adjutant Klock was ordered to Athens with a squad of men, to have the camp and garrison equipage moved to Decatur, which is being done at present writing, March 12th, 1864.
How long we will remain in Decatur, or where we shall go next, or how we shall be employed during the remaining four months of our service, are all matters in the future, and, in any department of life, uncertain, but especially in military life.
There are some incidents of interest, which occurred during the period of this chapter.
The first day after crossing the Tennessee River, while making for a place to camp for the night, where we learned there was forage for our animals, it began to get dark before we reached the point. The Col. drew up before a house near the road, to make some inquiry. A man came to the gate. Inquiry was made as to the distance to the point we wished to reach. These inquiries were followed by others as to whether there were any soldiers in the neighborhood. The reply was that there were.
Col.—"Were they Yanks?"
Citizen.—"Yes."
Col.—"How many was there of them?"
Citizen.—"Oh, there was a great many of them. At least 1,000."
Col.—"Was that all? I can easily whip twice that number. But I guess, my friend, you must go along and show us the road to their camping ground."