WeRead Powered by ReaderPub
History of Company K of the 140th Regiment Pennsylvania Volunteers (1862-'65) cover

History of Company K of the 140th Regiment Pennsylvania Volunteers (1862-'65)

Chapter 2: DEDICATION.
Open in WeRead

Explore more books like this:

About This Book

A veteran noncommissioned officer compiles a company-level account of Civil War service, outlining organization, marches, campaigns, and battlefield engagements within its regiment. The text blends chronological operational narrative with roster changes and promotions, sketches of comrades who died and those who survived, and a statistical summary of casualties. Interspersed personal recollections, dedications, and concluding reflections aim to preserve the company’s service record and honor the sacrifices and endurance of its members.

The Project Gutenberg eBook of History of Company K of the 140th Regiment Pennsylvania Volunteers (1862-'65)

This ebook is for the use of anyone anywhere in the United States and most other parts of the world at no cost and with almost no restrictions whatsoever. You may copy it, give it away or re-use it under the terms of the Project Gutenberg License included with this ebook or online at www.gutenberg.org. If you are not located in the United States, you will have to check the laws of the country where you are located before using this eBook.

Title: History of Company K of the 140th Regiment Pennsylvania Volunteers (1862-'65)

Author: Benjamin F. Powelson

Alexander Sweeney

Release date: May 10, 2014 [eBook #45626]
Most recently updated: October 24, 2024

Language: English

Credits: E-text prepared by the Online Distributed Proofreading Team (http://www.pgdp.net) from page images generously made available by Internet Archive (https://archive.org)

*** START OF THE PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK HISTORY OF COMPANY K OF THE 140TH REGIMENT PENNSYLVANIA VOLUNTEERS (1862-'65) ***

The Project Gutenberg eBook, History of Company K of the 140th Regiment Pennsylvania Volunteers (1862-'65), by Benjamin F. Powelson and Alexander Sweeney





 

Note: Images of the original pages are available through Internet Archive. See https://archive.org/details/historyofcompany00powe

 


 

 

 

HISTORY OF COMPANY K
OF THE
140th Regiment Pennsylvania Volunteers.
(1862-'65.)


By B. F. POWELSON,
(First Sergeant for Over Two Years.)


UNDER THE DIRECTION OF
BREVET CAPT. ALECK SWEENEY
And with the Co-operation of Others of the Company.



STEUBENVILLE, OHIO:
The Carnahan Printing Company.
1906.


  DEDICATION.

his little volume is, with loving remembrances and in truest affection, dedicated to the memory of Company K's dead and living, whose worth as volunteer soldiers, whose courage, devotion, fidelity, sacrifice, valor and efficiency were proven in many a long and difficult march, and in many a hard-fought battle, as well as by their return, when the glorious work of preserving the Union had been accomplished, to the pursuit of commendable avocations in days of peace and prosperity, worthy indeed of the honor a grateful nation accords them, as an integral part of the color-guard of its patriotism.



Late Photo of B. F. Powelson
The Company Historian

  PREFACE.

The bulk of what is contained in this book was written with a view to its forming a part of a book of the History of the 140th Regiment of Pennsylvania Volunteers. At the annual reunion of this regiment at Beaver, Pa., in 1903, it was decided to issue such a book of history under a regimental historian, with each company furnishing its individual part thereto, in such facts as pertained to any separate part as played in that dreadful war drama by a company, part of a company, or by an individual therein. This was in accord with an expressed demand for the placing of the regiment's heroic deeds and illustrious works in heroic record, so that the soldier's friends and successors may ever have these before them, an inspiration and incentive to the continued progress of their country, through a faithful, devoted, loyal citizenship.

But after more than two years have elapsed, it is found that but few companies have done their work and no one has been secured to serve for the regiment. And as Co. K. has for some time practically had its work done, and as much time and means have been required, and there is danger through death or other untoward event that what has been done may be lost, the company has concluded to publish a book for itself, and to give a copy of this book to the regiment, so as thus to provide Co. K's part to the history of the regiment, whenever the Book of History, as at first proposed, can be issued. The earnest desire of our company is that the Regimental History will yet be issued, and it stands ready still to do its part towards the same.

B. F. POWELSON.

Boulder, Colo., January 2, 1906.

CONTENTS:

1. Dedication 2
2. Preface 3
3. Cursory Statement Concerning the Regiment 5
4. General History of the Company 10
5. Sketches of Those Who Have Died Since the War 46
6. Sketches of Those Living 57
7. Recapitulation of Battles, Casualties, Etc. 72
8. Conclusion 77

  Cursory Statement Concerning the Regiment.

It seems fitting that a cursory view be taken of the services performed by the Regiment so that what is written as the History of Co. K may be understood and not seem to be too much isolated. Perhaps this can be subserved by a swift following of the itinerancy of the Regiment, by giving the list of, and some reference to the battles and skirmishes fought, and by a summary of casualties.

Among the many organizations in Pennsylvania volunteer soldiery during the Civil War, none stood higher in efficiency in service or brilliancy in record than the One Hundred and Fortieth Regiment, five companies of which were recruited in Washington county, three in Beaver, one in Mercer and one in Greene. Col. R. P. Roberts, of Beaver, killed at Gettysburg, was its first Colonel. W. S. Shallenberger, now Second Assistant Postmaster General, was its efficient Adjutant. This Regiment is accredited with the highest per cent of casualties in action of all the regiments enlisted in Pennsylvania. It stands fourth in this respect in the entire army during that fearful war in the '60s.

Upon its organization, at Harrisburg, Sept. 8, 1862, the Regiment was stationed for three months on the Northern Central R.R. with headquarters at Parkton, Md. And there, while on important guard duty, it was carefully drilled and schooled for military service. Then the Regiment, on Dec. 10, '62, was ordered to the front. On the evening of Dec. 13th, it marched out of Washington, D.C., crossing bridge over East Branch. The route was on the Maryland side, through Piscataway to Liverpool Point, from which we crossed on a transport vessel to Aquia Creek landing, and thence we marched to Falmouth, Va. One week was consumed in the marching, and the Regiment stood well the test. Then into winter quarters, an integral part of the Army of the Potomac. The Regiment is assigned to Col. Zook's Brigade, Gen. Hancock's Division, and in Maj.-Gen. Sumner's Right Grand Division.

The Regiment had its baptism of blood in the Battle of Chancellorsville, May 1-5, '63, withstanding the trying ordeal well. Back in camp, near Falmouth, the Regiment was skillfully trimmed and equipped for greater service. It was to have place ever after in a Corps, whose record was most brilliant, the Second, under command of the gallant Gen. Hancock. This Corps had in it six of the nine regiments sustaining the greatest numerical loss in killed during the war, aggregating 1848 out of the 2674 killed in the nine regiments. The Regiment was in the First Division, Gen. Caldwell commanding, with Gen. Barlow as his successor; and in the 3rd Brigade, Brig.-Gen. Zook commanding. He being killed at Gettysburg, Gen. Miles came in command of the Brigade. In the long and exciting march to Gettysburg, Centerville, Gainsville, Edward's Ferry, the Monocacy and Uniontown, Md., were important points. Uniontown was reached by forced march—fully 35 miles—by whole Corps in a day; and our Brigade, on July 1st, was rear-guard for wagon train, most of the 30 miles to Gettysburg being made in the night, and, exhausted, we went on the battle line on left center. Eloquent and pathetic was the record of the 140th at Gettysburg. The immediate casualties in the Regiment in the fighting on the evening of July 2, '63, amounted to about 60 per cent of the number engaged, our Lieutenant Colonel, John Fraser, being by rank in command of Brigade through balance of the conflict at Gettysburg. Col. Roberts was shot while in front of the Regiment to direct it to change of position to check, if possible, the column of the enemy flanking our right. Disastrous as was the loss of our brave Colonel at such a time, the Regiment faltered not but held its place till ordered out. The Regiment participated in the attempt to intercept Gen. Lee before he could recross the Potomac, the route taken being through Frederick City, reaching Burkittsville July 8th. Near the vicinity of Williamsport we came in touch with the enemy, and on the 14th, near Falling Water, we took part in engagement with the rebel rear-guard, a goodly number of them being captured. Thence our route led us to Harper's Ferry, across on 18th to Loudon Valley, through Hillsboro, to Snicker's Gap, to Bloomfield to Ashby Gap, where we had skirmishing, July 22nd; then passing to Linden and east along railroad to White Plains, and southward to Warrenton, in the vicinity of which the command remained several days, and, passing on, reached Morrisville July 31st. Participated in the reconnaissance-in-force at the U.S. Ford, Aug. 31st-Sept. 4th, returning to Morrisville. Crossed over the Rappahannock Sept. 12th; engaged the enemy at Culpepper C.H.; pressed on to the Rapidan, southwest of Culpepper, by the 17th, where considerable maneuvering, fortifying and fighting were done, until the early days of October, when a retrograde movement began. October 11th found the Regiment near Bealton Station, north of the Rappahannock. Again the evening of the 12th found us well into the open country south of the river; and a great demonstration was made by campfires, bands, etc. But to no purpose, for Lee seemed bent on an attempt to dash into Washington. So all night we tramp, crossing the river for the third time. Taking the flank of army, we pass to Auburn Creek, sometime in the night of 13th, in touch with the enemy most of time. Early morning of 14th came the engagement on Auburn Hill, our Regiment being in rear-guard of the Corps. Over to Catlett's Station by noon; then on a run to Bristor's Station, where we fought all afternoon, winning a neat victory. Thence to Bull Run, and to Centerville by daylight 15th. Lee foiled, and so returns southward. In a few days we follow. In vicinity of Fayetteville several days are spent. Extensive drilling done. The 7th of November finds the Regiment near the Rappahannock, east of the O. & A. R.R. The 8th we are at Thoms, south of the river, where we remain till Nov. 24th. Then came the noted movement across the cold Rapidan, and the Mine Run engagement, Nov. 29-30, with its varied experiences and rigorous exposures, and return to north side, and going into winter quarters at Stevensburg Dec. 7th. On Feb. 6, '64, the Regiment took part in the reconnaissance-in-force at Morton's Ford on Rapidan.

May 3rd found the whole army on the move. The Regiment, crossing the Rapidan at Ely's Ford, plunged into the Wilderness, and at once found the Johnnies plentiful, but held them level. In battle of Todd's Tavern May 8th. Engaged the enemy on 10th and 11th west and southwest of Spottsylvania C.H. Then came the march in dark and rainy night, and at earliest dawn on the 12th that most brilliant charge of whole Corps and wholesale capture of the garrison of the salient. Here the 140th lost 52 in killed, while at Gettysburg the killed numbered 61.

In this charge Gen. N. A. Miles had command of the 1st Brigade, 1st Division. The 140th was a part of this Brigade, and of the Regiment he then and ever after spoke well. Gen. Miles, the lines having been formed for the charge, sent his horse to the rear, and, placing himself at the head of the Brigade, led it in the charge. And he and members of his staff testify that the 140th was the first Regiment to enter the rebel works. And we deem it worthy to be here recorded that, when the Second Corps marched back through the vicinity of this battle, after the surrender of Lee, Gen. Miles claimed the stump of the tree, cut down by the dreadful rain of the missiles of war in that "bloody angle" at Spottsylvania, and took it. And Capt. Sweeney, then on his staff, by order conveyed it to Washington and turned it over to Secretary Stanton with Gen. Miles' compliments. This stump is now encased in glass among the war relics at Washington City.

Grant's "fighting it out on that line" took the Regiment on through Bowling Green, Milford, to North Anna river, and across it, where the enemy is given battle, near Hanover Junction, May 23-26. River is re-crossed for another flank movement, and the 140th plods on to near Hanovertown, where again it crosses the river, and at Totopotomy Creek engages the enemy, May 29-31, where the brave McCollough, commanding, fell. At Cold Harbor for days the fight goes on, and the 140th suffers many casualties. Then Grant chose to plant his army south of the James, and on June 13th the Regiment crossed the Chicahoming at Jones' Bridge, and with some skirmishing about Charles City found itself on the 14th south of the James; and on the 15th was in the engagement in front of Petersburg. We held position for a while on the Jerusalem plank road. On July 27th occurred our engagement with the enemy at Deep Bottom, north side of the James. Then the return to a place in the line east of Petersburg, where we wrought much on the defenses. Again, on Aug. 12th, via City Point and transports, the 140th finds itself in Deep Bottom, and fought the enemy on the flank, while the 5th Corps broke the enemy's grip on the Weldon R.R. Then withdrawing in a tedious night march we get back to our camp. But we set out at once south along the Weldon R.R. till we reach Ream's Station. There miles of track are destroyed. A. P. Hill's Corps appear to drive us off. A sharp conflict wages through afternoon of Aug. 25th. In the shades we stole back and took position on the railroad south of Petersburg and fortify. In that position the fall and winter are spent, with occasional diversions. There was the engagement at Hatcher's Run latter part of October, another one Dec. 10th, and the Dabney's Mill on Feb. 6th, '65, constant vigilance not allowing the enemy any rest.

The final campaign opening, the 140th was constantly in touch with the enemy from March 25th till Lee's surrender, the special engagements being at Sutherland Station April 2nd; Jetersville, the 5th; Sailor's Creek, 6th; and Farmville, the 7th. The route was directly on line of retreat of Lee's army. The 140th was on skirmish line covering road into Appomattox C.H. the morning of April 9th, the time of the surrender of the Army of Virginia.

The Regiment encamped at Burkville from April 13th to April 30th. Was at Amelia C.H., May 2nd. And, passing through Richmond and on through Fredericksburg, the 140th ended its long route of marching at Washington, D.C., May 23, '65, from which it had set out Dec. 13, '62, having marched an aggregate of 1108 miles, and having taken part in 22 distinct battles, nine marked skirmishes and several reconnaissances-in-force. The battles were in duration from six hours to five days. With a total enrollment of 1132, 198 were killed in action and 128 died in service. The wounded numbered 537. The total casualties were about 850. There were present at the muster-out on May 31, '65, 295.

On the disbanding of the Regiment, its citizen soldiery again took their places in institutions of learning, offices, shops, stores, or on farms, or represented their constituents in places of trust, content that they had done their duty in saving the country, and rejoicing in seeing it rise in worth and influence to highest rank among the nations of the world.

  General History of Company K.

Company K's special part of this History of the 140th Regiment, P.V., is furnished by Ben. F. Powelson, who was Orderly Sergeant of the Company for over two years, under the direction of First Lieut. Alex. Sweeney, the only surviving commissioned officer, with his assistance and the aid and co-operation of other members.

This Company was principally made up of young men from the strenuous walks of life, out of good Christian homes, largely intelligent sons of husbandry, and not a few having been or being hard-working students in academy, college, or theological seminary, thus possessing the fundamental qualifications for good military service. Possibly it had as small a ratio of men unfit for such service as any called out to do duty in the '60s. A few there were, of course, who were carried in by the tide of excitement or selfish interest, without much consideration, but most, nearly all of the members, entered through due reflection, true courage and definite conviction.

Much of K's history will appear in the History of the Regiment, for in general this company shared with other companies the movements and service of the Regiment. It is only the purpose of this writing to treat of what pertains specially to the record of individuals composing the company and of what was peculiar to the company, or in which it was affected personally or as a unit of service.

This Company was recruited during the month of August, 1862, in Washington county, Pa., under the call for 300,000 volunteers. It was of a composite nature, formed of squads and individuals from different parts of the county, though the largest constituency was from the north-western part, with Cross Creek as the center; and in consequence of this it was frequently called the Cross Creek Company. Wm. A. F. Stockton, son of the Rev. Dr. John Stockton, pastor of Cross Creek Presbyterian Church, was engaged sometime in recruiting in this region, intent on raising a company. He was assisted by B. F. Powelson, his classmate for years, and by others. Meetings were held in Cross Creek, Burgettstown, Eldersville, Paris, Candor and other places. One meeting in Cross Creek Village was attended and addressed by Dr. Wishart and Messrs. A. and David Acheson, of Washington, the county seat. Twenty-three enlisted from Cross Creek, the first eleven being sworn in by 'Squire Duncan on Aug. 16. Those recruited in Paris, in the extreme northwest section of the county, footed up 20. A squad of seven enlisted in Candor, under the supervision of Wm. B. Cook. Seven hailed from the neighborhood of Millsboro, while four others came in from other places in the eastern part of the county. Claysville furnished a squad of nine. And quite a number came in from the Finley, Morris and Donegal Townships. Alex. Sweeney, Jr., had been out in Claysville and West Alexander in that region on a recruiting tour. He and Enoch Mounts represented the county seat.

Those recruited in Cross Creek, Eldersville, Paris and Candor, or the Northwest, fifty-five in number, came together on August 20th at Cross Creek village, where a large concourse of people assembled and gave them a hearty repast and reception. Thence, after taking leave of relatives and friends, they were conveyed by neighbors, in wagons and other vehicles, sixteen miles to the county seat; and there they for a while went into camp, using for quarters the halls of the old Fair Grounds, now the Athletic Grounds of Washington and Jefferson College. Here all the recruits were rendezvoused, and they were kindly and patriotically treated by the citizens of Washington, who opened their homes and in many ways gave comfort and cheer.

On the 22nd of August the formal organization of the Company was effected, ninety-six entered their names on the Company roll. An election of officers was held, resulting as follows: Captain, Wm. A. F. Stockton; First Lieutenant, Alexander Sweeney, Jr.; and Second Lieutenant, Wm. B. Cook. The non-commissioned officers were in the main determined upon, Geo. W. McConnell was entered as musician, and the members of the Company began to assume military airs and were ready for orders to go forward to active service, and these orders quickly came. Four other Companies, recruited in Washington county, were known to be ready for assignment to some Regiment. Orders came for the Company to proceed at once to Camp Distribution, in old Oakland Fair Grounds near Pittsburg. The journey to Pittsburg was rather an ovation. The enlisted were taken in conveyances by way of the old turnpike, many of their friends accompanying them the whole or part of the way. A halt for dinner was made at Canonsburg, where the citizens entertained the Company in royal style. Their loyalty and enthusiasm had a true ring, for they had a Company ready to go into service. (This Company became Co. G, of the 140th P.V., and furnished the Lieut. Colonel.) Camp Distribution was reached without mishap, and there the Company was partially equipped. And the ninety-six men were mustered into the service of the United States as Volunteer Infantry, for three years or during the war, by Capt. Ludington, on the 4th day of September, 1862.

The names and places of residence are as follows:

No. Names. Residence.
 
1. William A. F. Stockton, Captain Cross Creek
2. Alexander Sweeney, Jr., First Lieutenant Washington
3. William B. Cook, Second Lieutenant Candor
4. Benjamin F. Powelson, First Sergeant Cross Creek
5. Milton R. Boyd, Second Sergeant Claysville
6. Edward S. Alexander, Third Sergeant West Alexander
7. Thomas C. Hayes, Fourth Sergeant Cross Creek
8. Samuel K. Shindle, Fifth Sergeant Cross Creek
9. Silas Cooke, First Corporal Cross Creek
10. John D. McCabe, Second Corporal Paris
11. Isaac Donaldson, Third Corporal Candor
12. William R. H. Powelson, Fourth Corporal Cross Creek
13. George Ralston, Fifth Corporal Donegal Twp.
14. William L. Pry, Sixth Corporal Cross Creek
15. John F. Gardner, Seventh Corporal Paris
16. William Hanlin, Eighth Corporal Paris
17. George W. McConnell, Musician Paris
18. Allison, James B., Private Claysville
19. Andrews, Abram, Private Cross Creek
20. Andrews, Peter, Private Cross Creek
21. Arthur, James, Private Paris
22. Berryhill, James S., Private Cross Creek
23. Briggs, Lazarus, Private Dunningsville
24. Buchanan, Benjamin B., Private Paris
25. Butterfoss, Daniel J., Private Paris
26. Carter, George W., Private Millsboro
27. Carter, Jesse M., Private Millsboro
28. Carter, Thomas J., Private Millsboro
29. Chester, Andrew, Private Dunningsville
30. Chisholm, Isaac W., Private Candor
31. Cochran, James E., Private Paris
32. Conaway, Ezra, Private Millsboro
33. Corbin, David W., Private Cross Creek
34. Corbin, Joseph A., Private Cross Creek
35. Cummins, Benjamin H., Private Cross Creek
36. Daugherty, Michael, Private West Alexander
37. Davis, Andrew B., Private Paris
38. Day, John M., Private Morris Twp.
39. Dickson, Henry, Private Dunningsville
40. Dungan, Robert B., Private Cross Creek
41. Earnest, Benjamin F., Private Claysville
42. Fordyce, James H., Private Claysville
43. Frazier, Joseph C., Private West Alexander
44. Fulton, John, Private Paris
45. Gardner, George, Private Paris
46. Geary, William M., Private Candor
47. Golden, Isaac, Private West Alexander
48. Graham, Joseph Smith, Private Cross Creek
49. Guess, Joseph, Private West Alexander
50. Hanlin, George A., Private Paris
51. Hawthorn, Benjamin F., Private Millsboro
52. Henderson, John, Private Paris
53. Hull, Robert W., Private Paris
54. Johnson, George W., Private East Finley
55. Lyle, Robert, Private Cross Creek
56. Lyle, James C., Private Cross Creek
57. McCalmont, John A., Private Candor
58. McClurg, Robert, Private Paris
59. McConnell, Harrison, Private Paris
60. McCullough, Benjamin, Private Candor
61. McCurdy, James K., Private Eldersville
62. McElfish, Owen, Private West Finley
63. Magill, James K. P., Private Cross Creek
64. Makeown, John, Private West Alexander
65. Maloy, John, Private Donegal Twp.
66. Marshall, John, Private Claysville
67. Meldoon, Robert, Private West Alexander
68. Metcalf, Norris, Private Eldersville
69. Miller, William H., Private Donegal Twp.
70. Miller, Isaac. Private Donegal Twp.
71. Morris, Jesse J., Private Millsboro
72. Morrow, George, Private Paris
73. Mounts, Enoch, Private Washington
74. Nickeson, Colin R., Private Claysville
75. Nickeson, John W., Private Claysville
76. Noah, James L., Private Eldersville
77. Noble, Thomas L., Private Claysville
78. Porter, William, Private West Alexander
79. Pry, David McClurg, Private Cross Creek
80. Pry, Rebert A., Private Cross Creek
81. Rea, William, Private Cross Creek
82. Ruffner, William A., Private Mound City
83. Scott, Henderson, Private Paris
84. Scott, William, Private Eldersville
85. Seese, Nathaniel, Private Candor
86. Sprowls, George, Private East Finley
87. Sprowls, Jesse M., Private East Finley
88. Staley, Oliver, Private West Alexander
89. Star, George, Private West Alexander
90. Stollar, William, Private Claysville
91. Toppin, Johnson, Private Millsboro
92. Virtue, Robert, Private Cross Creek
93. Wheeler, Ulysses, Private Eldersville
94. Wilkins, Thomas, Private Cross Creek
95. Worstell, James, Private Paris
96. Wright, Marshall, Private Paris

Thence by cars on the Pennsylvania Central R.R., from Pittsburg, with other Companies, this Company was taken to Camp Curtin, Harrisburg, where it became an integral part of the 140th Regiment of Pennsylvania Volunteers at the organization of same, September 8th, 1862, and received the designation of Co. K, its position in line being the center of left wing. (A. F. D. I. C. H. E. K. G. B.) Here the Company was fully equipped, and the few days of bivouac on the beautiful Susquehanna were characterized by the making of us full fledged soldiers in the Union army, the first taste of camp life, and a number of refreshing baths in the river.

On the Regiment's being assigned to the guarding of the N.C.R.R., south of York, Pa., Co. K was stationed at Monkton, Md., about six miles south and distant from Parkton Md., "Camp Seward," the headquarters of the Regiment. It had several miles of railroad to guard, the chief point being a bridge about three miles below Monkton. Its quarters were dubbed "Ambolin Barracks," consisting of a bunk building of two stories, with a shed room attached as officers' quarters, and a cook house. A flag pole stood in front of the barracks from which "Old Glory" floated gracefully. The sergeants, a train of freight cars having been wrecked a short time after our being located there, resurrected a box car which had been thrown down an embankment, and thus improvised independent quarters for themselves, near the main building.

On October 13th the non-commissioned officers, as appointed by the Captain on the organization of the Company, received their certificates.

The period of duty here covered three months, the Company participating in all the Regimental drills, inspections, etc., marching to and from Parkton on the railroad tracks. The time was well put in, in drilling, and in the usual routine of barrack duties. Nothing occurred to mar the good name of the Company. The people of the vicinity were kind and considerate, and they respected the members of Co. K as gentlemen. The homes and assemblies of the people were open to them. Many things occurred to render the service here a pleasant one. The corn husking and big dinner at Bacon's plantation, the barn-floor husking and repast at Quaker Matthews', with his many favors to the guard at the lower bridge, and like recognitions, were greatly enjoyed by all who were privileged to participate. The soldier's plain fare was abundantly supplemented by the Diffendaffer's meals at from 10 cents and upwards, with the luscious apple dumplings and peach cobblers with unstinted measure of rich cream. Even now our mouths water as we think of those baked apple dumplings and richest of cream! And as Corporal Cook has written, "Where is the one who, when on guard at the upper bridge, does not even yet have a sneaking feeling creep over him when he remembers the old Frenchman's peach orchard, and the stuffed haversacks that got over the back fence in some way and were found at the guard station?" And no one in Co. K was the worse off if a few sacks of oysters were taken from the car with broken truck, side-tracked for a day or two; for that savory article of diet was just "too tempting," when the early November snow banks afforded so good and safe cold storage. Even the Captain enjoyed the extra diet, and suggested that "no trace be left behind." And there was none. For a tracer, sent out when a shortage was reported in Harrisburg, found none.

Several of us, too, remember very gratefully the little church up in the woods, and that one east of Monkton, whereto occasionally we turned our footsteps. Those days of soldiering had much of sunshine in them, which lightened materially the burden of a rigorous but useful military discipline. While here the Company was directed by special order to serve as guard of honor in the burial of Gen. Dixon S. Miles, mortally wounded at the surrender of Harper's Ferry, Sept. 15, 1862, whose body was laid to rest in the church cemetery a few miles east of Monkton. About the same time, too, our hearts were fired a little for more stirring service by the distant booming of cannon on the battlefield of Antietam.

Several of K were subjected to the ravages of fever prevailing here in the Regiment and incident to exposure and some lack in sanitary provisions. Silas Cooke, James C. Lyle, Thomas Wilkin, Wm. Porter, John Henderson, A. B. Davis and John Marshall tasted of the experiences of the hospital in the old stone church at Parkton. John Marshall was the first of the Company's losses. While in Parkton for drill and inspection he was badly hurt in going between two cars, and died Nov. 17th in the Regimental hospital from the injury and fever. Two others of the Company died in this hospital: John Henderson, on Dec. 7th, and Andrew B. Davis, on Dec. 9th. The name of Thomas L. Noble was dropped from our roll, he being on Nov. 28th transferred to the quartermaster's department by special order from Regimental headquarters. So, when the order came to leave for the army in the field, near Fredericksburg, Va., K's strength numbered but 92, and Silas Cooke, J. C. Lyle and Wm. Porter, sick, must be left behind in hospital at Little York, Pa. Our dead had been sent back for burial in their home burial places. Good soldiers they were, though they never saw much of the "grim visage" of war. On the morning of the 10th of December Co. K bid adieu to Monkton and marched with everything to Parkton, Col. Roberts having received orders to go to the front, the transportation to be ready that evening. It was with some feeling of regret that the members of K left Monkton, for they had become attached to the place and people, but the prospect of entering into more active and stirring soldier life captivated and filled everyone with enthusiasm, and the march to Parkton was made amid continuous peals of glee and cheerfulness. And so, as late in the evening the train passed down through Monkton, the generous cheering of people and soldiers showed how strong had become the ties of friendship.

Co. K shared with G a room in the Union Relief Association building in Baltimore the night of the 10th. At night on the 11th, the Regiment was crowded in old freight cars, open and destitute of arrangements for fire. The weather was cold, and the whole night was consumed on the way to the Capitol, causing no little suffering from cold, some keeping "courage up" by little fires kept burning on floor or seats from whittlings from pine benches.

Co. K was in her place as the 140th marched through Pennsylvania avenue, Washington City, with flying colors, about 4 p.m., on the 13th, setting out for Burnside's army. The first night's camping out was such a one as to be long remembered, in a wet bottom, with scarcely a redeeming feature. In K's memorandum it is styled as "Camp Misery." But the second night's lodging showed a commendable readiness for improvement in the school of experience, and Co. K was not behind in learning to accommodate itself to any conditions. So we dubbed that night's lodging amid the pines "Camp Hope." And so those days of marching, with sunshine and rain, with favorable and unfavorable news from the battle being waged at Fredericksburg, with the varied experiences on the way, were to the Company, a good schooling, for the strenuous and vigorous service upon which we were entering. From Aquia creek on to the front our illustrative lessons were those of war's desolations. The soldiers of our defeated army, returning to their former camping grounds, blackened with the smoke of battle, make an impression on the mind and heart of each of us as we march by them into a place designated for our camping ground. This was hailed as well selected, a woods where pines and oaks abounded, timely for the construction of winter quarters. This was at nightfall on the 20th of December, the closing of a week of real soldiering, testing well the men's powers of endurance. The reflections of the writer, as found in his memoranda book, express well the sentiments prevailing that Saturday night: "It seems refreshing to look out over our Company as the boys, with tents pitched, rest and commune in a spirit of contentment and good will. They sit beside blazing fires, pressed closer and closer to them by the cold wintry air. Some are crawling into their nests early—and gladly do they lay themselves down to rest, to dream of the dear ones left at home and of future happy days. Poor soldiers, rest in peace, with the consciousness that you are endeavoring to do your duty as God gives you opportunity. Remember, too, that while you are pilgrim soldiers here in this strange land, amid danger, sin and death, the prayers and good wishes of thousands follow you. Think of those loved ones in the pleasant home circle, encircled by all that makes life happy—think of your cherished institutions and sanctuary privileges; of your rich farms; of your prosperous towns and cities—your enterprising factories; your commerce; your country's religious freedom and civil liberty. Think of the cost in the purchase of this boon—the sacrifice of our forefathers—the shed blood of patriots. And think now of recreant hands uplifted to destroy our government, striking from our history its brightness, trampling under foot our glorious flag—symbol of our might. Think of these things, and feel proud of the position you occupy—soldiers for the Union."

Co. K's men showed a good degree of skill and efficiency in constructing the winter quarters, following with commendable accuracy the general instructions. So that in the remaining days of December the work was about fully done and the boys were at home in their village of booths, having in the same time become fairly well initiated in the requirements of the service, embracing all kinds of drill, in squad, Company, Regiment and Brigade, with inspections and reviews, an extensive review of the Right Grand Division (Sumner's) having taken place on the 23rd, Gen. Burnside being present. And K responded readily to her share of details for special duty, and for police, guard and picket duties. On the 18th day of January K shared in the delight of the Regiment in receiving Springfield rifles to supplant our old Austrian muskets. A glad good-bye to the old kickers!

In the months in camp near Falmouth, Co. K endured hardships, severities, exposures and privations that tested physical endurance to the utmost, and in them had a schooling that was to tell in the future good record of the Regiment. But there were always a sufficiency of spice and source of merriment and good cheer among the boys. Receipt of news from friends, substantial tokens of love and care in boxes of good things sent by them, camp fire chats and musings, little banquets together, sometimes at the expense of the scanty income and to the profit of the army sutler—all these were as "Lights among the Shadows" in soldier life.

Co. K was favored in February with another visit from Col. Sam'l Magill, of Cross Creek, the father of James K. P., one of our best members, and a model in many excellent qualities of the true soldier. Col. Magill had visited us while in Monkton. The Captain and Orderly Sergeant were specially favored by visits from three of their schoolmates, Rev. Messrs. McC. Blayney, Ewing and Wotring.

Another quotation from the writer's journal will show the temperament and spirit of the boys of K, who did their part in giving the Regiment its high standing in the army. "A soldier's Saturday night—Dec. 27. The boys of K are now pretty comfortably housed in their booths. Take a look in upon that of the sergeants, and we have a fair sample of the sixteen in our Company, eight on either side of the Company street. The sergeants with Drummer McConnell are snugly seated around a bright fire. Boyd is leisurely smoking his pipe, sending out with each ascending puff a loving sigh or thought of 'the girl he left behind' in old Washington. Alexander is 'cogitating,' giving his mustache a twist now and then, possibly thinking of some evening spent among the 'peach blossoms.' It may be, however, only an endeavor of his to discover some plan by which he can further contribute to our present happiness. He has been faithful in this respect. Hayes is seated on his knapsack coolly writing to ——. His look betokens a clear conscience, having as usual performed his duty to the letter. His sage remarks settle many points in dispute. In true affection his heart turns to loved sisters and a beautiful home he left for his country's defense. He's with us from purest love of country. Were it not for Shindle the spirits of our mess would sometimes run low. His sly remarks would make round the most elongated face on most occasions. The drummer boy, too, he fondly turns to a dear wife at home and hates the recreants that drove him from her, but he'll be with us with his rattling Yankee Doodle till the last one of them be subdued. The 'Orderly' can only glance hastily into the other fifteen, with a cheering 'how d' de?' The occupations are various. The booth of the Candor squad for neatness and convenience takes the lead. In it Will Powelson is quartered, who at his country's call bid adieu to wife and little daughter. And there's Corporal Wm. Pry, who left quite a family. The country may feel secure with such soldiery between it and its foes."

The Company was noted for its cleanliness and good order, and for its attentiveness to military discipline, under frequent and ofttimes most exacting inspections. In the Adjutant's competitive inspections of guard details Co. K frequently won, and on one occasion carried off all the honors; on another, four out of the six. For excellence in work and neatness in appearance it was often complimented.

On Feb. 28th, Silas Cooke, J. C. Lyle and Wm. Porter, left in hospital at York, Pa., Dec. 10th, returned and were warmly welcomed back into camp.

Corp'l Wm. L. Pry and Serg't Hayes were granted furloughs home for ten days. While in camp near Falmouth the hearts of the Powelson brothers were saddened by the news of the deaths of their two brothers, Samuel and George, who were members of Co. D, 32nd Regiment of Mo. Vols., in the army near Vicksburg.

On the 31st of December, '62, K records her fifth loss. This time a desertion. We have only the official record: John Fulton, "deserted Dec. 31, 1862, Georgetown, D.C." Our next loss was Harrison McConnell, discharged Feb. 13, '63. In this case it appears that Harrison was a minor, enlisting without the consent of his parents. They applying to the U.S. courts, in Pittsburg, Pa., got a decision of release. On the 14th day of Feb., '63, Corp'l Isaac Donaldson died in camp of typhoid fever. His death was one of triumph in Christian faith. But it cast a gloom over the Company. We mourned the loss of a good soldier and a kind companion.

The other losses up to the time of our breaking camp, April 28th, were as follows: Corp'l John D. McCabe, discharged Feb. 13th, '63, on surgeon's certificate of disability; Henderson Scott, discharged March 12, '63, special order War Department; Robert Lyle, discharged March 14, '63, surgeon's certificate of disability; Benjamin B. Buchanan, discharged March 20, '63, surgeon's certificate of disability; Isaac Golden, died April 15, '63, at Mt. Pleasant, D.C., and was buried in the Military Asylum Cemetery, D.C., and David W. Corbin, died April 21, '63, in Stanton hospital, D.C., and buried in the same Military Asylum Cemetery. These losses cut the roll of members down to 82.

John A. McCalmont was promoted to Corporal to date April 15th, '63, the time of Donaldson's death. Jos. Smith Graham was made Corporal, to date the time of McCabe's discharge, Feb. 13, '63.

When the Company marched out from camp on April 28th, Lieut. Sweeney was in Washington, Pa., on leave of absence, and Musician McConnell was at home on furlough. Robert McClurg was with the Pioneer Corps. J. H. Fordyce, Ezra Conaway, Michael Daugherty and Ben. McCullough were on detached duty as teamsters. Colin R. Nickeson, Owen McElfish and John Makeown were sick and left at Falmouth. The sick in hospitals in Washington and other places were: D. J. Butterfoss, Ben. Cummins, John Day, Geo. Hanlin, Geo. Morrow, Enoch Mounts and Wm. A. Ruffner. In all absent from the ranks 17, leaving 65 to cross the Rappahannock and enter the battle of Chancellorsville, as follows: Capt. Stockton, Lieut. Cook, Sergeants Powelson, Boyd, Alexander, Hayes and Shindle; Corporals Cooke, Powelson, Ralston, Pry, Gardner, Hanlin, McCalmont and Graham; Musician Morris, privates Allison, Abram Andrews, Peter Andrews, Arthurs, Berryhill, Briggs, George Carter, Jesse Carter, Thomas Carter, Chester, Chisholm, Jos. Corbin, Cochran, Dickson, Dungan, Earnest, Frazier, Geary, Guess, Hawthorn, Hull, Johnson, J. C. Lyle, McCurdy, Magill, Maloy, Meldoon, Metcalf, Wm. Miller, Isaac Miller, J. W. Nickeson, Noah, Porter, Robt. Pry, David Pry, Rea, Wm. Scott, Seese, Geo. Sprowls, Jesse Sprowls, Staley, Star, Stollar, Toppin, Virtue, Wheeler, Wilkin, Worstell and Wright.

Co. K participated with the Regiment in all the five days of action, being more or less under fire the entire time. Our first experience in line of battle was on a by-road leading out from Plank Road, about a mile east of Chancellorsville. Thick woods in our rear. Dense pine thickets in front. Fences were leveled. Shells crushing in tops of trees behind us. Balls occasionally zipping nearby, and enemy coming nearer, but could not be seen. In those moments of trial, what a study in human nature! The rebels came on in heavy columns. Our skirmishers are driven in. Orders given to fall back, and our going back through that brush was a terror. No order could be maintained. But once out of timber and on road, we were soon right again, and ever after were ready for the Johnnies. We had been initiated, practically blindfolded. In that first day of May and several days following Co. K was tested in nearly all phases of engagement, its chief work being constructing entrenchments and abatis; and in the hottest conflict on the third day, in support of Knapp's battery. In this particular service K had some protection in an embankment of a cross road, while shot and shell passed over in dreadful profusion. Capt. Stockton had shelter only by a little sapling, which was cut off a few feet above him, Lieut. Col. Frazier remarking, "rather a close call, Captain."

To a soldier in his first battle there are strange feelings and peculiar experiences. That the members of K shared in these may be indicated by a quotation from Corp'l Cooke's writings to me: "On the 1st day of May, '63, I saw the first wounded man as we marched out to support the skirmish line to the right of plank road east of Chancellorsville. The sight of the blood running down the man's face made me blind; but it soon passed away, and I never experienced the sensation again during the war, though I saw many worse sights. It was then the Company had several new experiences—lying in front of a battery to support it (in the open ground, just east of C.) lying in the woods at night while an occasional long-tailed, comet-like shell would shriek over us, while we buried our noses in the dirt and leaves; the wild experience of supporting the battery behind it, while it seemed all the artillery of the enemy was playing upon it. That Sunday artillery duel was the most terrific experience to me of the whole war. Yet, strange to say, there were but few casualties in K worthy of mention. That being our first battle many things were vividly impressed on my mind: the digging of trenches; the attack on Howard (by Jackson) that thundering Saturday night; the filing by of the 11th Corps the next morning; the disabled cannon swung under axles; the women pale and frightened, fleeing from the burning Chancellorsville houses, creeping along our trenches to find a place of safety; the band shelled while playing the "Star Spangled Banner"; the dragging off by hand (by detail from the 140th) the remnant of our battery in front; the falling back to a new line, and finally the retreat."

Much of our maneuvering was done in woods and tangling brush, very annoying. K withstood its baptism in battle well, and met the discomfiture, defeat and retreat of our army in very good spirits, sharing in the "ups and downs" in the march in rain and mud. Many expressed regret as we recrossed the river, for better things had been expected.

  On the north side Lieut. Sweeney and Geo. McConnell were met, returning from their visits home. This was on the morning of May 6th. The march thence back to our old camps was made much "as you please," characteristically like American soldiering; but we got there O.K.—for supper, and that after considerable rustling. One thing was manifest, K had parted with many of its possessions in extra clothing, comforts, etc., and some essentials were lost. The fact is, when we were up in support battery on the 3rd, our knapsacks left by order, at trenches, were ransacked by camp followers. [See the Transcriber's Note] fact is, when we were up in support of battery on the 3rd, our knap- Wheeler, in arm; McCalmont, in foot; Briggs, in back; Chester, in leg; and J. W. Nickeson, thumb shot off. Corp'l W. L. Pry, in falling back to hospital, overcome with fatigue, accidentally shot himself in hand.

Comrade McClurg (who was with the Pioneer Corps, which, while laying pontoons, was shelled by the rebs and had to seek shelter till our cavalry drove the rebs away) reports that he cut slips from apple trees behind which he took refuge and sent them by letter to the man on his home place, and that today he eats apples from a large tree grown from the slips grafted on the two branches of a young tree then recently planted. (On a visit, in June, '04, the writer saw with much satisfaction this tree.)

On the 11th day of May, for sanitary effect, our camp was moved about a mile, and K soon had herself in summer array. On the 13th K was assigned to a new place in line and camp, other Companies, too, being changed. (C, B, K, I, A, H, G, D, F, E.) This changed K from left to right centre. On the 14th, the Orderly with a volunteer squad beautified the Company street, planting out little pines, etc.

On the 20th day of May, '63, Wm. A. Ruffner was discharged on surgeon's certificate of disability. And on the 21st K suffered the loss of Corporal W. L. Pry. The accidental wound had been followed by the amputation of the hand, and from some cause or other, it was deemed necessary to make another amputation. This time the whole arm. But the shock and loss of blood were too much. At 2:30 p.m. he died. Arrangements were made to embalm the body and ship it to Cross Creek, Pa., for interment. Serg't B. F. Powelson was given a three days' pass to accompany the remains as far as Washington, D.C. D. McC. Pry was promoted Corporal to fill the vacancy caused by the death of his uncle.

George Morrow, in the hospital at Washington, D.C., was reported as discharged on May 23rd, '63, on surgeon's certificate of disability. But a few days afterward there came the sad news of his death in the hospital. Thus seven of our number had already succumbed to death through sickness, and one from a wound.

To relieve the severities of soldier life friends at home had sent many extras in food and delicacies to the members of the Company and Regiment in camp.

The recollections of the closing days of May and the early days of June, too, to us are very vivid: the rigid drilling, the rumors of movements, and of Lee's army heading northward, the breaking up of camp streets with accumulated beans, rice, etc., that the same might not fall in the enemy's hands. And now we number ourselves for campaign and conflict.

On our roll are now but 79 names. Exclusive of those on detached or special duty and the sick, only about 55 or 56 were ready for the line.

When on June 14th the army started north, Co. K bore up bravely in marching through dust and heat, and now and then wading streams. How vivid our recollections of that awful dust—when in evening coming down to the valley of the Occoquan and before wading it, it rested on our knapsacks (according to Serg't Shindle's measurement) a quarter of an inch deep! Blistered feet! The waters of the Occoquan soothed them. Nor do we forget that big spring near Fairfax Station, like the water from the rock smitten by Moses, a source of delight to thousands for several days. The boys, too, of K shared in the sights and soldier enjoyments at Centerville. Here on the 19th or 20th of June our Company positions were again changed in the Regiment. Now from C on the right stand C, F, G, D, K, I, B, H, E, A. K now is the color Company, the third position of honor, and this it held ever afterward.

While on duty a few days at Gainsville the boys of K improved their opportunities in securing some change in diet, and the First Sergeant tried his hand in trading coffee and sugar for some extras for the larder; and were Lieut. Cook and Smith Graham living they could testify to his success. The Sergeant's repeated efforts as well as successes in this, they say, were due to that fine looking "gal," Evelyn Harrison Marsteller, at the Marsteller Mansion.

From this on in all our movements we were kept in constant readiness for action, as the army was held between Washington City and the enemy, ever alert, picketing and skirmishing, marching regardless of rain or swollen streams, through sections devastated by the armies, over battlefields with their terrible sights. And boys of K, can you forget the night at Gum Tree Springs, when after that hard day's marching and watching, you bivouacked, and how it rained all night? Nevertheless it was a good sound sleep from ten or eleven till four in the morning, on a bed of two flat rails, (the "Orderly" was lucky to get such) one end on a stone or broken piece of rail and the other on a bank, the water streaming beneath, each one for himself, wrapped with his scant remnant of hard-tack and coffee, gun and ammunition, in a gum blanket or piece of tent, and the cap drawn down over the face. Never were sleep and rest sweeter! And the early hours found us pressing on towards the Potomac, over swollen streams. How timely those good rail fences on the heights, overlooking the river at Edward's Ferry. And how readily every one in K obeyed the order to take only the top rail, until the Company had its share of blazing fires to dry and warm us! Then that never-to-be-forgotten night when we crossed on the pontoon bridges. K's turn came after hours of waiting, and at 2 o'clock in the morning we found ourselves in "My Maryland." All were practically asleep on march or halt. Oh, those plagued stops or halts through all that weary night! Yes, you remember your Orderly Sergeant's mishap—how, in one of those miserable stops, he fell asleep, having dropped down by a bush on the roadside, a half mile or so from the river—no sooner down than asleep, and did not wake up by the usual call of comrades; and so two hours passed in that innocent sleep, and he got completely lost from the Regiment, and remained so (as everything was moving onward) till evening of second day, June 28th. Fortunately he found James Arthurs, of K, who drove the Regimental wagon. Not knowing anything better, he stayed by the stuff till Arthurs received orders to take much needed rations to the Regiment, which was found in bivouac, just south of Frederick City across the Monocacy. And the lost was found, and the "Orderly" was welcomed with profound rejoicings, no one knowing what had become of him, the last any one could remember aught of him was while crossing on the pontoons. And does any one with K on June 29th forget that march of 35 miles by the 2nd Corps to hill just northeast of Uniontown, Md.? We trow not. How we enjoyed the rest and the foraging (from fresh pastures) on the 30th, and Gen. Hancock's order of congratulation and thanks. Here Cummins and others from the hospitals joined us. And vivid, too, is each one's remembrance of the march of 30 miles we made on afternoon and night of July 1st, our Brigade being rear guard.

Of the 79 now on K's roll as we take our position on the battle line on the morning of July 2nd, 22 are absent—in hospital or absent sick—Silas Cooke, George Ralston, Peter Andrews, D. J. Butterfoss, J. W. Day, Jos. C. Frazier, George Hanlin, J. W. Nickeson, Wm. Stollar and Marshall Wright. On detached or detailed duty—John F. Gardner, James Arthurs, M. Daugherty, J. H. Fordyce, Ben McCullough, J. L. Noah, Ezra Conaway, Enoch Mounts, J. K. McCurdy, Robert McClurg, Nat. Seese and Jas. Worstell.

Each one participating in the fighting at Gettysburg is able to tell his story of that wonderful conflict. It was fought for the most part on open ground and much could be seen. But the average soldier's vision was confined largely to his immediate surroundings. Yet individual testimony goes far ofttimes to settle matters over which there arise differences in opinion. Co. K stayed well together until the hasty retreat, and its path seems clearly defined. So distinct were the impressions thereof on the memory of the writer that, on a visit to the battlefield in 1898, the only time I ever visited it, 35 years after the conflict, I could start in where we marched in and follow our route from start to finish. Could stand where we stood in line as we emerged from the strip of timber, and where Col. Roberts fell and our right wing suffered so heavily, and could see afresh our changed position to meet existing conditions. Since called to this work, I have resurrected from the old trunk the almost daily writings I kept during my term of service—the most of which I was able to save amid the vicissitudes of marches and battles. They strengthen and verify my recollections. And I will here submit an extract from my "Journal Notes," taken at the time, which gives my impressions of, and a glance at my experiences in that terrible vortex of battle in which we were on the evening of July 2, 1863.

"Gen. Hancock now sends his 1st Division to the relief of Sickles. It moves in with rapidity in fine order. The battle rages terribly. We pass the Trostle house where the Massachusetts battery has nearly been swept away—up on the Emmitsburg road west. But soon we are marched back by and south of Trostle's, form line of battle and pass on south, through corner of wheat field, on edge of which Gen. Zook is mortally wounded—on through strip of timber, over or around huge boulders. It is almost six o'clock when we are in line of battle, facing south and west—Col. Roberts killed in front of Regiment—right wing in open field under severe enfilading fire, suffer terrible losses—Lt. Col. Frazier, as soon as he realizes situation changes front of right wing to face Peach Orchard—our Company on left. We fire continuously. Serg't Boyd and I pass to left of Company as all are doing well their duty. We fire from big rock into bit of timber dark with smoke. I fire some 17 rounds. Boyd calls out, 'Orderly, they are falling back.' I fire a load I had just put in. Boyd has disappeared. I start back seemingly alone, going out about the way I came in—soon come up with others, but I do not know them—all running for dear life and Johnnie bullets rattling all about us. Crossing an open space, I could see the rebels close upon us to my left—they order me to surrender—but I can't see it—I'll run the risk, as I could see our lines to the right and some timber in front into which I soon pass, and get out of range. Could hear the rattling of the muskets of our lines. It was a bloody battle, but Co. K and the whole of the 140th acted nobly."

Back a little distance I found a few of our boys, and we found our way back to our field hospital. Through much of that night I assisted at the hospital. I held the arm of Lieut. Vance of Co. C while his hand was amputated. That to me was a most dreadful night. I slept soundly a few hours in the morning. Then joined the remnant of our noble Regiment on the line they held that eventful 3rd of July.

When the smoke of battle in that fearful conflict in evening of 2nd of July, and that world renowned battle of the 3rd, most of which we saw distinctly, had passed away, K numbered her dead five: Serg't T. C. Hayes, Thomas J. Carter, Robert W. Hull, Wm. H. Miller and Jesse Sprowls. All good and true soldiers. I deeply felt the loss of "Clif." Hayes, my blanket mate, warm-hearted, noble-spirited, ever faithful. These were buried on the 4th, as best we could. I superintended the burial of Hayes and Carter. Hayes' remains were soon removed to the home graveyard in Cross Creek Village, Pa. Comrade Magill tells me that the remains of Carter were interred in the National Cemetery, Gettysburg, but that it is erroneously marked Carpenter.

Lieut. Cook and Serg't Shindle were taken prisoners. And our list of wounded were: Serg't Alexander, in arm and hand; Wm. Hanlin, in hand and leg; Robert Virtue, severely in breast; Robert Meldoon, in face and leg; Johnson Toppin, in shoulder; Ben Earnest, severely in face; Isaac Chisholm, in thigh; Jos. Corbin, in leg; Colin Nickeson, in breast.

Corp'l Wm. R. H. Powelson was promoted to be sergeant in place of Hayes, and James K. P. Magill to be corporal in his place.

One instance should here be related in K's favor. J. B. Allison, a private of this Company, was the instrument of saving the colors of our Regiment. I give it as he told it to me in a recent letter: "As we were falling back from our position near and in sight of the Peach Orchard, at Gettysburg, our color-bearer was severely wounded in the back. He fell forward, and raising himself partly up called to me to save the flag. I lifted him partly up and drew the flag staff from under him. I kept the flag in my possession for say a half hour, until I came up with the scattered group of the Regiment. I gave the flag into the hands of a corporal of Co. E (I don't remember his name). I believe he was finally made a captain." This, I am told, was Corporal Power.

The "fiery ordeal" of Gettysburg as a test found some wanting in true courage. And one faint heart in K was sifted out. George Star was missing when with our Corps we took up our march southward after Lee. And we had to report him a deserter, under date of July 15, '63. Comrade Mounts reports that Star was seen three years after and reported himself as having traded suits with a farm lad a short distance out from Gettysburg, and gone west.

K's readiness in coping with obstacles and meeting present emergencies was manifest when on July 17th the race to head off Lee's army being ended, we quietly turned in east of "Maryland Heights," below Harper's Ferry, to rid ourselves of a month's accumulated dirt together with the usual accompaniment, and the wholesale and retail slaughter of the pediculos vestimenti was immense. Then, when on next day we came upon nature's own sanitary provision in fields of dewberries and what some foraging on the farms of Loudoun valley brought us, we toned up our impoverished and abused bodily systems, and further fitted ourselves for the active work in the months to come, in which we pushed the rebels back through Culpepper to the Rapidan, and then, when they were reinforced, ran with them a race for Washington, with the brisk encounter at Auburn, or "Coffee Hill" and battle of Bristoe Station, heading them off effectually at Centerville, and in turn pushing them back across the Rappahannock, with encounter here and there, and last the early winter dash and conflict at Mine Run, where the Johnnies were strongly entrenched, and finally settling down in good winter quarters at Stevensburg and near Brandy Station.

K shared in enough of the spices of soldier life to keep the boys in good humor and give them a zest for the hardships endured. Will Powelson and others of the Candor mess got off easily, when mustered up to headquarters by the provo-guard, having in their possession a good-sized pig, by a caution from Gen. Miles not to ever be caught again. They got even with the General by sending him a neat roast from a hind quarter. And Silas Cooke tells of the wading of the Rapidan in the latter part of November when it cut like a knife, and charging up the heights into the rebel breast-works, and drying ourselves in the sun; then of the race after the long-tailed lamb, and the row of fat porkers all dressed that morning by the rebels, left in their haste, and divided among us. Some of our boys will remember the "hot coffee made from the contents of a whiskey canteen, which blistered our mouths while we swallowed it to the music of the long roll, and did not know what was the matter until the owner of the canteen (who had come in late and hung canteen on top of others, and, in Will Powelson's haste to make the coffee, was first to be taken) let it out." But let it pass now—42 or more years have passed—what matters it now whose canteen it was? He may be living and be serving the God of his fathers faithfully as an elder in some staid Presbyterian church. The circumstances were then trying, and possibly some one needed a warming up. Comrade McCalmont assures us that the coffee was warming and made the marching enlivening to some of them, as we forced our way along on, as Cooke adds, "the march along the railroad, the camp in the cut, the fearfully cold night, and the troops the next morning stripped for the charge (at Mine Run) on the frosty hillside, but called off on account of the cold, the long, gloomy night of retreat amidst fires on either side to keep us warm (and light our way). Retreat No. 2 for the 140th, and the last I believe." So in all this campaign K sustained a worthy record.

Some changes had taken place. Enoch Mounts was discharged Aug. 22, '63, on surgeon's certificate of disability; Robert Virtue, one of Cross Creek's best young men, died from effects of wounds received at Gettysburg, in the hospital at Baltimore, Sept. 9, '63. Joseph C. Frazier was discharged on surgeon's certificate of disability, Sept. 30, '63, having been in hospital a long time. John W. Nickeson was on account of impaired health transferred to the Veteran Reserve Corps, Nov. 15, '63. John M. Day was discharged Dec. 12, '63, at Convalescent Camp, Philadelphia, on surgeon's certificate of disability. Ben F. Earnest, who had been severely wounded in face at Gettysburg, but had been back on duty for some time, died rather suddenly in camp near Brandy Station, on Dec. 14, '63. Here K lost one of its most devoted members. Corporal J. F. Gardner and James L. Noah were on Dec. 17, '63, transferred by special order No. 328, Headquarters Army of Potomac, to the Corps Artillery Brigade. These losses brought K's list down to 65. Wm. Porter was promoted corporal in the vacancy caused by the transfer of Gardner. Capt. Stockton had been detailed to service in the General Recruiting Station at Pittsburg, Pa., leaving the Company on July 29th. And Lieut. Sweeney was appointed, on Dec. 29, '63, to duty at 2nd Corps headquarters; later he was assigned to duty at Gen. Barlow's headquarters, and in latter part of '64 he was appointed on the staff of Gen. Miles. Thus the Company was without a commissioned officer, and it remained so until about the latter part of June, '64.

In the latter part of December, '63, Serg't B. F. Powelson was given a furlough of ten days as a recognition of his services in looking after the Company's interests. And in the latter part of January he was assigned to recruiting service at Washington, Pa. And at close of this special duty he was granted leave to attend a military school at Philadelphia and to go before Gen. Casey's examining board at Washington, D.C.

During the winter K shared in picket and other duties and in the early spring reconnoissance to the Rapidan, "when we lay," says Silas Cooke, "and slept with the rain pouring down upon us from above and the water running under us—bones all aching—then back to camp."

During this time and up to the opening (May 1st) of campaign, K lost four more, as follows: James K. McCurdy was discharged Feb. 17, '64 by special order 78, War Department; Serg't Sam'l K. Shindle died March 17, '64, in Andersonville (Ga.) prison, buried in grave No. 1114. He taken prisoner at Gettysburg, was kept for a while on Belle Island, then in Charlotte, N.C., and finally was herded in that awful prison pen. Thus went out the life of one possessing many commendable traits as a soldier. Michael Daugherty died March 18, '64, Brandy Station, Va., from injury inflicted by the kick of a mule. He was buried in the National Cemetery, Culpepper, Va., Block 1, Sec. A, Row 4, Grave 17. He served well as a teamster in the Q.M. department. Isaac Chisholm was, on March 20, '64, transferred to Co. G, 9th Regiment, Veteran Reserve Corps.