June 64

7: B – Arrived at Acworth, Georgia. Marched. Took up position in first line of battle near Kenesaw Mountain. I – Marched to Acworth. Marched. Took up position in first line of battle near Kenesaw Mountain. Detailed as reserve skirmishers.

10-11: FS – Skirmished with them in woods near Big Shanty.

10-27: C – It took an active part in the numerous skirmishes before Lost and Kenesaw Mountains. The distance traveled, since last mustered, amounts to something over 100 miles. I – Also participated in the numerous skirmishes with the enemy near Lost and Kenesaw Mountain, Georgia marched a distance of 100 miles.

10-30: A – Skirmishing near Kenesaw Mountain.

10: D – We advanced to near Lost Mountain. Since then have been in the front and on skirmish line frequently. None wounded in company.

16-17: FS – Skirmished.

17: B – Detailed as reserve skirmishers. Had one man seriously wounded. I – Had one man mortally wounded.

18: FS – Advanced our lines to within short distance of enemy’s works near Kenesaw Mountain, which we compelled them to abandon. B – Were under fire all day. I – Was under fire all day.

19: B – Marched in line of battle driving the enemy to base of Kenesaw Mountain. I – Marched in line of battle driving the enemy to base of Kenesaw Mountain.

20-21: FS – Skirmished with the enemy.

20: B – Built breastworks on the skirmish line. I – Had two men slightly wounded. Marched to the right.

22-27: FS – Were under fire of the enemy near Kenesaw. The regiment has been engaged in the various moves made during the advance of [William Tecumseh] Sherman’s Army into Georgia.

27: B – Marched to the right. Built breastworks. Lay there until the close of the month. I – Built breastworks. Lay there until close of the month.

30: B – Company B was last mustered on the north bank of Chattahoochee River. D – Are at the time of this muster about three miles southwest from Marietta, Georgia. H – Company H was last mustered on the north bank of the Chattahoochee River.

Nelson Diary

Wednesday, June 1

Heavy cannonading and musketry heard during the morning. Col. Carlton returned. Made out monthly report. Had a very good prayer meeting.

Colonel Caleb Carlton Letter from Huntsville

Camp near Huntsville Ga.

June 1st 1864

My Dear Little Wife

I received my first letter from you (since leaving you) today. It was dated May 25th. I hope you succeeded in getting a present for Miss A. that pleased you. Capt. Hunt says that it is reported that five weddings are to take place at Harrisburg this season. He does not remember the parties but thinks Miss Foster and Lt. Baldwin will form one couple – Capt. Hunt is with me now and is quite sick and will be sent back to Kingston tomorrow.

We stayed with Genl. Baird last night. I joined my regiment this morning but have had but little opportunity of seeing its condition as yet. My regiment is some miles in rear of the army guarding trains etc. it is impossible to tell when or where we will move. We have heard the big guns at intervals all day. No general engagement since Resaca but they have been pounding away every day and sometimes all night. This is a hard section of country and hardly seems worth fighting for. Little or no open country heavy timbered and hilly ground. I intend to send a man back to Chattanooga for my valise tomorrow.

I hope your suspicions of Rhoda are well founded for it will be appreciated by the whole family. Keep the battledore going and dont forget your other exercise. I think Charles letter as you say is impertinent, but will not send the money unless he will take the risk of the mail.

I think it would be well for you to stay in Cleveland as long as you feel contented. It will be healthier for both you and the baby than Harrisburg still if you really get homesick there is not really enough difference in the two places to make you feel obliged to stay on that account.

My Quartermaster presented me with a three year old colt today it is too young for much service but will be a fine horse in time. I have my doubts about finding a horse but intend to try. Hazen is somewhere in advance of us, he was reported to have my horse last.

You do not mention receiving any letters from me. I wrote twice in Cincinnati, once in Nashville twice in Chattanooga and once at Kingston, also sent you a gas shade from Cincinnati.

Love to all. Kiss the baby for me, take him out to Grandmothers. It will do him good, it will be a variety for you and the milk from her cow will do you good.

Your loving husband

Cale

Nelson Diary

Thursday, June 2, 1864

We left where we had been camping since Sunday, about noon. Soon after we started had a very heavy rain. Had to wait two or three hours on a wagon train which we were to guard. Saw Geo. Fennimore. Marched a mile + a half and camped in the woods. Wrote to Allie N. + John.

Nelson Diary

Friday 3

Started as rearguard and went to Pumpkin Vine Creek where our men delayed from 9 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. After going two miles further camped in the woods. Rained in the evening.

Colonel Caleb Carlton Letter (Undated but location fits date)

Camp near Burnt Church

East of Pumpkin Vine Creek

and South of Huntsville Ga.

My Dear Little Wife

But one letter from you since leaving Columbus. Still it is not your fault as we have received but one small mail since I reached the regiment. I have heard a good deal of firing night and day, both musketry & arty. but have not heard the whistle of a shot since I joined. My Brigade has been employed guarding trains marching about a mile a day, raining most of the time. The Rebs retired night before last and I suppose our forces have not found them yet as there was no firing yesterday. Capt Hunt was sent back to Chattanooga, he is not fit for field service and I doubt if his health will ever stand active service. My horse and two hundred dollars paid for him I have to lose as it is clearly proved that he was stolen from Lt. Scarvill of Genl. Padines Staff, as the man who sold him to me has gone North, I cannot get either money or horse. I am now looking out for another horse as the one given me is only a three year old and too young to stand much service. They are a scarce article here – everybody wants to buy – several thousand Cavalry and a number of batteries are dismounted for want of horses.

We hear but little news as we are several miles in rear of the army. The country is a succession of ridges covered with very thick underbrush and heavy oak timber.

My regiment is small numbering but a few over two hundred for duty. I am rather short of clothing as my valise has not come up yet. My black valise is still at Nashville. I shall leave it there for the present. Col Von Schrader directed the back numbers of the Army and Navy Gazette to be sent to Cleveland. Keep them but if you can ascertain who the person in Cincinnati is who sends them please send him my address so that he can forward the future numbers to me. If I could find the Col I would write myself, but it is like hunting a needle in a hay mow to look for a person here. We hear that a mail left Kingston some ten days ago for our Corps, but we have not received it yet. I am looking very anxiously for a letter from you. I dreamed the other night that I was lying down and holding the baby over me and rolling the youngster about sideways. He howled wrathfully and you consequently abused me so severely that I woke up and was disappointed to find that you were not near enough to box my ears. It is time for the mail to leave. Kiss baby. Love to all. Write often my dear little wife.

Your husband

Cale

Nelson Diary

Saturday 4

Remained in camp all day. It rained considerably. Could hear the fighting in our front all day. Wrote to Allie.

Sunday, June 5, 1864

Ordered to move at 6 a.m. We struck tents; order countermanded + we put them up again in two hours. Ordered to strike tents again. We marched two miles and stopped, putting up tents in an hour or two. Struck tents and marched a mile or two further + stopped for the night.

Monday 6

Remained all day in the camp where we stopped last night which was an old Rebel camp. Mailed one letter to John, one to sister Adelia + one to Allie. Received orders to be ready to move by 4 o’clock tomorrow morning.

Nelson Diary

Tuesday 7

Reveille at 3 a.m. Moved at 4:30. The weather very sultry but the roads good. Reached Ackworth about 8 o’clock a.m. After marching a mile or two toward Marietta went into camp. Saw Jim Simpson.

Colonel Caleb Carlton Letter from Acworth

Camp near Acworth

June 7th 1864

My Dear Little Wife

Your favors of May 27th and 29th arrived today. As to the affair of the 26th why not explain it to Rhoda she will get Jim to take you out riding that will be the best idea. There is no danger in that. If that will not answer use that affair as directed in June and in July – send Jane for it. I am perhaps not a good judge but I really cannot see any impropriety in your asking for gum nipples for the baby – still if they think so you had better let Jim get them for you hereafter.

Try and think of that affair calmly, if you can prevent it, do so, if you cannot take it coolly -–for you really increase the danger of it by worrying about it and in either case your health should be as good as possible to enable you to bear it. Is not Mrs. Brayton in Cleveland, if she is you can visit her as often as you please, you know her well enough to go there as often as you please.

What is it you wish to know about Mrs. K.

I met Col. Von Schrader today he is as fat and jolly as usual. He asked after you and the small boy and wished to be remembered to you – Mrs. Von is in Murfreesboro. Von was afraid to have her come any farther with him. We closed up today and I suppose will be relieved from train guard and will join our Division. We are now about two miles from the front at present. The impression is the rebs are a few miles from us in front but in small force and will fall back across the Chattahoochee river when we advance which will take us to within five miles of Atlanta. We are now over a hundred from Chattanooga. If you get a good map you can trace our route.

Nelson Diary

Wednesday, June 8, 1864

Remained in camp near Ackworth. Had inspection. Wrote to Julia. Rec’d letter from sister J. of June 2nd. Received a lot of sanitary goods. Wrote to Aunt P. Sent Will’s letter.

Colonel Caleb Carlton Letter in 7 Jun 64 Letter from Acworth

8th. Col Hobart came to see me today. He is the individual I played the match game of chess with in Richmond. He escaped with the tunnel party. We have no orders yet, but it is expected that everybody will move tomorrow. You must not let Grandmothers remarks annoy you. You know old people usually think it their duty to keep us warned about death and that the chances are that we will die in a few days, etc. They mean well enough and although they do not think there is any danger, still they want to prepare persons for the event if it should accidentally occur. Love to all.

Your husband

Write often little wife

Cale

Nelson Diary

Thursday 9

Still in camp near Ackworth. Received letter from Maria Cook of May 12, from Sister Jennie of May 18, from sister Adelia of May 27th.

Had dress parade.

Colonel Caleb Carlton Letter from Acworth

Camp near Acworth

June 9th 1864

My Dear Little Wife

I was overwhelmed with letters yesterday. Received nearly thirty private and official. With the exception of three from you they were all old letters dated last August and September. I cannot imagine where they have been all this time as they did not come from the dead letter office. Three or four from father the same number from Rhoda and six or seven from you. I was four or five hours reading them but found it a very pleasant task although the letters were old – most of the letters were directed to Tracy City. Your letters of May 20th, 21st 25th 29th and 31st have been received. It was a great relief to me to hear that you would not be obliged to use the prescription. I hope you will now get strong and hearty and be free from nervousness and nerves altogether. The baby illness has not worried me for youngsters of his age (I believe)are out of order about half of the time. So until you feel uneasy about him I shall not worry. I think we only casually mentioned the fair Alice. I do not remember what the Capt said about her, he has gone back to Kingston. I meet but very few persons I am acquainted with. Merrill (of my Class) went back before I arrived to organize an Engineer regiment, so we have not met. Cols. Le Favour and Col. Bartleson are somewhere but I have not seen them. I will repeat as you request the first opportunity. Miss A. must be Mrs. F. by this time. I suppose she will have plenty to tell you when you meet. No letter from Rhonda yet. it is strange as you both directed the same way.

Remember me to Mrs. H and of course go to the wedding if you are invited. You will find the Skiff family very jolly and I imagine the wedding will be a hearty one. Dont interfere in military discussions it is a useless trouble, neither party convinces the other and if the disputants are hot tempered they usually both become angry.

The Second Book of Samuel is the correct one, as I brought nothing with me but the clothes I had on and a haversack, my bible was left at Chattanooga. I have sent for it and am anxiously expecting my valise. You can imagine my state of cleanliness. This is something like Richmond in respect to underclothing. My Regt. is in a much better condition than I expected. My Major seems to be quite an energetic officer. I am rather pleased with him. I heard two shots fired yesterday afternoon the only ones for several days. Scorpions interfere with us some. Several men in the Brigade have died from the effect of their stings. Still with ordinary care they can be avoided. I am now in the second Vol. of Scott. I have never read the Lady of the Lake and Marmion with as much pleasure as I have this time. We heard that the general result of operations in Va. is good although Butler has managed badly.

Kiss baby – Love to all little wife

Your husband

Cale

Nelson Diary

Friday 10

Were relieved from being train guards. Advanced 6 miles to the front and sent out skirmishers confidently expecting a hard fight. Rained very hard. Saw Gen. Sherman, Thomas, Palmer, Johnson, Baird, Whipple + c.

Saturday, June 11, 1864

5 a.m. skirmish time.

Were aroused by 3 o’clock a.m. + ordered on the skirmish line by 5 o’clock to relieve K + A. I was relieved by 7 o’clock. Rained very hard. Saw Lt. Ed Baker of 74th Ind. About 3 p.m. advanced to skirmish line. About dark we started to move a mile to the left + marched until 10 p.m. Cleared off.

Nelson Diary

Sunday 12

When we awoke this morning, found it raining in our faces. To this time (1:30 p.m.), we remain where we stopped last night. It has rained all morning. Firing continued in our front. Rained all day. Drew rations.

Colonel Caleb Carlton Letter from Burnt Shanty

Camp several miles

from Burnt Shanty Ga.,

June 12th 1864.

My Dear Little Wife

We have had rain every other day for the last three or four days. The sun as hot as possible between the showers. Today it has rained all day and has been uncomfortably cold. Although we are camped on the top of a ridge teams stall in front of my tent. It seems probable that the mud will prevent our moving for several days.

The few deserters who come in do not agree in their statements, some say most of the Rebel army is south of the river others that four Corps. are directly in our front. Day before yesterday we drove in their videttes – yesterday afternoon we started to move on their works. We meandered about in the woods until ten at night then went to sleep – some powder was burnt but I did not hear of any of our people being hurt.

I have been anxious about my valise thinking it had been captured (as it would have been had the messenger returned to the place he left us to go for it). It is at Kingston and will come forward in a few days – I met an old acquaintance at Ackworth and he gave me a relay of underclothing so I am comfortable as far as that is concerned. I have only one of my immediate Generals to growl about now. Palmer our Corp. Commander is an Illinois politician and knows about as much about military affairs as a pair of Shermans old boots. Still Thomas is usually in our vicinity (probably on that account) and gives an eye to our movements.

Your letters of May 20-21-23-25-27-29-31 and 2 June received and appreciated. I assure you it seems a year since we parted. The only objection to a medicine chest is that ladies like to dose and give youngsters something everytime they look cross. I am anxiously looking for your next letter to see if you have recovered from that affair. I am not good at guessing so you must tell me why you object to use that machine. I think you are too sensitive about money charity. Father (particularly) thinks it better to give money than presents for he says it is an accident if the present suits, while money given can be expended to the satisfaction of the receiver of the favor. I have a gold piece in Cleveland that I received at Lee’s age from Grandfather.

I think your idea about Charlotte a good and kind one. Speak to Father about it and offer your services. I think he will appreciate as a kind and delicate attention from you and that you wish to see him comfortable. He may object thinking it will give you to much trouble. If he agrees, ask him to speak to Charlotte. Are you satisfied with Jane, do you think she likes the small boy enough. Samuel and his wife are nice and refined people. Make them a visit if you have an opportunity. I dont think Charles could go to Cleveland. Negroes are not allowed to go North of Louisville.

Send me one of baby pictures when you have them taken.

Love to all.

Your husband

Cale

Nelson Diary

Monday 13

Rain Rain Rain! It has rained almost continually since Friday morning. We remained in the woods where we stopped Saturday night. Mailed letters to Julia + Aunt P. The rain ceased toward night.

Tuesday, June 14, 1864

The weather is better, it not having rained since yesterday evening. Was ready to move by 6 a.m. but did not march until about noon and then went only about a mile. I got letter from Mary + Hamlin + Wickershaw, Indianapolis.

Wednesday 15

Remained quiet until about 3 p.m. Saw Col. Von Schrader. We moved about two miles toward the front, very near to the skirmish line, near Kennesaw. Wrote to Hamlin + Wickersham.

Nelson Diary

Thursday 16

Remained quiet all day in this same position we stopped last night. Considerable cannon + musketry firing. Chaplain came up. Saw Hicks, 63rd O.V.I. and staff. Have felt quite unwell all day.

The Highland News, "Paint" Letter from New Petersburg

New Petersburg, June, 1864.

Friend Boardman: - Knowing that the columns of the News are open to contributions in reference to or concerning the army, and that the Editor is always among the foremost in rendering aid and comfort to those brave boys who are fighting and suffering in our army, I thought that a small space devoted to the 89th O. V. I. would be read by the many readers of the News who have friends in that regiment with interest.

This regiment, that marched to the front about a year ago, numbered 800 men. They were our brothers, our sons, husbands and fathers – some of them from your own town, some from this township, and all over the country are missing from the family circle, those who forsook all those tender ties of home and friends and boldly went forth to battle for their Country in the hour of peril. How well we remember them and yet how painful is the memory of the last time we saw them – some of them for the last time on earth, as they proudly stepped into rank, leaving comfort and ease for toil and hardship on the battle-field. They met the enemy on the fatal field of Chickamauga, and with others turned the bloody tide of battle from sweeping over our armies. They almost lost their identity as a regiment in that terrible struggle.

They were, with thousands of others, sacrificed to save the Army of the Cumberland. A large number of them were taken prisoners and hurried on to Richmond and thrown into the dreary cells of Libby prison. Some were taken still farther, to Danville, and are now, as ever since their imprisonment, suffering all that brave men can suffer for their Country. Though sympathizing with them in their desolate and starving condition, it is a comfort to every loyal heart all over this land to know that of such men our armies are composed, of men who can face death in any and every way, that their children and countrymen may enjoy the sweets of Liberty, and if they should be permitted to live to get home again, what a proud position they will occupy, as suffering all the torture that rebels and traitors could afflict them with. What emotions will swell the hearts of the father or mother of such a son, or the desolate yet not forsaken wife and children of such a husband and father! "He was one of those devoted men who suffered many long months in the loathsome prison for his country’s cause," and if some of them should never get home to their friends again, the remembrance of them will live to the hearts of all who may survive to enjoy the blessings resulting from the sacrifice they made. Their epitaphs will be inscribed in the memory of their countrymen, and none could be greater than that he died a martyr for his country.

We had heard nothing from those confined at Danville, and their friends here were troubled with various rumors of their death, and had almost given up every hope of seeing or hearing from them again, when a letter was received from R. C. Barrett, assuring them that through all his hardships he was well, that J. D. Clark, in the same Co. (I) was well that the boxes of clothing and provisions sent to them by the Soldier’s Aid Society of New Petersburg had been received, and that the contents would be distributed among the boys of the company, as soon as he could do so. The boxes contained Shirts, Drawers, Paper, Envelopes, various kinds of Fruits, Hams, &c. &c.

The friends and neighbors outside of the Society assisted in furnishing them things, and they wisely arranged it by sending them in two boxes, one of them directed to R. C. Barrett, the other to J. D. Clark, so the chances of getting them would be more certain. It is with the gratitude of their hearts that they return thanks for the kind efforts in their behalf, and what joy it no doubt gives them to think that while they are suffering prisoners in a distant land, they are remembered at home. These Sanitary goods have lightened the hearts of many poor soldiers. Long may their efforts succeed.

Paint.

Colonel Caleb Carlton Letter from near Kennesaw Mtn

Camp in front of

Lost Mountain near

Kenesaw Mountains

June 16th 1864

My Dear Little Wife

Your favors of June 4 & 6th recd. Quite a brisk skirmishing for the last few days. our Division was engaged yesterday, our Brigade was in reserve however loss slight, only one or two officers wounded. It is reported that the Rebel Genl Polk has been killed – everything look favorable both east and west. We are not in Marietta yet and wont get there without trouble. My health is good. If that thing has not stopped yet speak to Dr. Blair about it, dont let it run on. I am glad to hear that the baby has recovered – has he any teeth yet. Kiss the young man for me.

Love to all.

I recd my valise a few days the other is still in Nashville.

The waggons have not arrived yet so I scribble this on my knee.

Your husband

Cale

Nelson Diary

Friday, June 17, 1864

Moved forward in the morning to support a battery. Spent nearly all day in fortifying our position. Skirmishing right in front all day. Read letters from Sister Jennie + Ada.

Colonel Caleb Carlton Letter from Kennesaw Mtn

Camp near Kenesaw Mountains Ga.

June 17th 1864

My Dear Little Wife

Your letter dated 8th and postmarked June 11th arrived yesterday. Firing going on now and has been night and day for several days. It is sort of a siege. We throw forward skirmishers, drive in theirs, and at the same time a working party moves and builds breastworks, then the troops in the rear move up. We hear of but few of our men being hurt – about thirty in our Division during the last few days. A large number of ladies were seen yesterday on the top of the mountain. They had probably riden out from Marietta to take a look at the Yankee army.

I am well. Our greatest trouble is to get vegetables, our food is meat coffee and hard bread. We have managed to get a few green apples occasionally but nothing else. I will write to Mr. Lewis (the Army and Navy Gazette man) and direct him to send you the back numbers and send the numbers issued hereafter to me, also to send you the bill to January 1st, 65 – as he may never receive the money if I attempt to send it to him.

I have only reached the 14th Chapt. of 2d Book of Samuel. You know I had to leave my bible at Chattanooga and it only came up a few days ago. I will read up at once.

I never thought Miss Shepard amounted to much, still I thought she had more principle than to marry as you say she intends to. Of course no girl marries a man twenty years her senior except from interested motives. – either to save herself from being an old maid (& she is in no danger of that) or for wealth or for position or some such motive. "An old mans idol" to a "Young mans slave" is a very pretty theory but will not answer in practice, especially in a town or city and only tolerably in the country.

I have met Col. Von Schrader several times. he enquires after you and the young man. The Col. complains of having to take in his belt five or six inches. I dont think it injures his gracefulness at all – in fact the change is hardly perceptible to the naked eye. This army has made a very successful campaign so far, of course our advance hereafter will be slower as we are now over a hundred miles from Chattanooga and every mile diminishes our numbers and increases that of the enemy – as well as increases our trouble in obtaining supplies – I have not seen any of the regular brigade yet. Fine weather for the last two days much to our comfort. I do not know anything about the rent. affair you mention. I will write to Ned as soon as I can find time. We get but little news. I am glad you find the baby a comfort to you and hope you will see to the household affairs for Father. You will have more to do but will have the satisfaction of directing things as you please and there is no doubt but what Father will be more comfortable. Why dont he go to Grandmothers on horseback and around the country generally that way. If we reach Marietta I imagine the army will take a rest (for it needs it for the men have been forty days without baggage and are ragged, dirty and without doubt carry vermin) if so I will see about a pass for Father to come down – at present it would be difficult for him to get here and not be pleasant or interesting after he arrived. Mrs. Kennedy has but little to do but talk and of course must say some foolish things. Tuckup would be a little extravagant at present.

Love to all

Your husband

Cale

Nelson Diary

Saturday 18

It commenced raining early this morning. About 9:30 a.m. advanced and have been on the front all day within 200 yards of rebel works. In rain and heard firing continued till dark.

Sunday 19

The rebs deserted their works during the night. This morning we marched over their breastworks and through their camp. Never saw bullet marks so thick in trees + logs. Advanced two miles, continual skirmishing in front. Rec’d letter from Aunt Margaret.

Monday, June 20, 1864

It rained very hard yesterday. Last night we camped in the bushes near Kennesaw Mt. This morning rec’d 7 pants. Came out on the skirmish line about 8:30 a.m. Pretty heavy firing all day. Hennis, Co. K killed. Bullets whistle all around. I fired 25 or 30 times. Wrote to Aunt Margaret. Relieved about 8 p.m.

Tuesday 21

Our reg’t was relieved from picket about 6 a.m. by the 92nd O.V.I. Men busy all day digging. Mailed letter to Aunt Margaret.

Wednesday 22

Busy all day digging and dodging shell. The rebs opened their batteries on the mountain + shelled us considerably. After dark, we moved about a mile toward the right.

Thursday, June 23, 1864

Spent another day in digging and dodging. The rebs opened a number of batteries and we had a pretty hard artillery duel. The sight was grand, though not pleasant when the balls came near us which a number did.

Friday 24

The sharpshooters kept us dodging all day, making our ditch a safe place. There was some artillery firing from our side but no reply from the rebs. The weather very warm.

Nelson Diary

Saturday 25

Another day spent in dodging balls. A battery opened on us but our batteries soon silenced it and blew up a caisson. Man of Co. K shot in leg. Weather very hot. Sent letter to Sister Jennie.

Colonel Caleb Carlton Letter from Kennesaw Mtn

Camp near Kenesaw Mt. Ga.

June 25th 1864

My Dear Little Wife

We have had some hard work since my last letter, building breastworks, night work etc. until within the two last days it has rained most of the time. I did not take off my boots for three nights. The rebs have thrown all sorts of projectiles at us. I have only lost seven men three killed and four wounded. We had been lamenting Col. Bartlesons death but it seems that he was not killed as reported, there is now a report that he was killed yesterday. We are not in Marietta yet. We get but little news. I am getting quite stout the field seems to agree with my health. I have received your letters of June 10th and 12th. Father must be pretty tough to ride twenty miles without feeling sore. Why dont you propose to him to take you with him. I meet old Von quite often. He looks as jolly as possible. How does the warm weather agree with the baby. It has been horribly hot here the last two days. I managed to purchase a hundred dollar mare the other day. She does not amount to much. It is almost impossible to get horses here. My Major is dismounted and cannot buy a horse.

Love to all – kiss the baby for me.

Your loving husband

Cale

Nelson Diary

Sunday, June 26, 1864

Spent a very quiet day. Had to keep close to our ditch as the rebs shot pretty close. A little cannonading by rebs off toward the right. Wrote to Ada. Rec’d letter from Alice. About 11 p.m. started on the move toward the right. Issued whiskey.

Nelson Diary

Monday 27

After coming two or three miles last night, we stopped about 2 a.m. Relieved for time from front, but came again on the front. A rebel shell struck the ground + burst right by Vickers; another in the 82nd Ind., none hurt. From orders rec’d expected to make a charge. Rec’d letter from Henry.

The Brown County News of 13 Jul 64, F M K [Francis Kratzer?] Letter from Chattanooga

Chattanooga, Tenn., June 27, 1864.

I left home on the 30th of May to join my regiment, went to Columbus, Ohio and from there to Cincinnati where I was kept three days – had plenty to eat and good water, spoilt. I arrived where my regiment was on the 19th of June, and found it numbering only 100 men and they were on a skirmishing line, so I could not get to it, and was sent back, to this place. The army is progressing well, but losing a great many men. I guess we have enough left yet to drive the rebels into Atlanta. The rebels say we have lost 7000 – but this is an exaggeration – since June 3d, but that is small in comparison with the rebel loss. The blood of our brave boys has wet nearly every foot of Georgian soil, and yet are the victors. May this sacrifice nerve and stimulate their patriotic example. May the evergreen which spring from each lonely grave be symbolical of the perpetuity of our Government, and may their blood so freely shed speak to us from the ground and incite us more strongly to the support of our country’s cause until rebellion shall no more raise its hydra head in defiance, but the flag of our Union wave over the whole length and breath of the land, and one universal shout from the mountain gathering strength from the valleys, declare that we are a free people – forever free.

F.M.K.

Co. C, 89th O. V. I.

Nelson Diary

Tuesday 28

We yesterday came to the front, about 3 miles from Marietta and took position on a hillside. We are still in the same place. There has been but little firing until 10 or 11 p.m. Considerable firing on skirmish line. Rec’d letter from sister Jen. Mailed letters to Henry + Allie.

Colonel Caleb Carlton Letter from near Marietta

Camp South West of

Marietta Ga.

June 28th 1864

My Dear Little Wife

Your favor of June 20th received, only six days on the route. Our Cavalry certainly has been handled well to keep our communications open so long without a break. I have been quite busy for the last ten days, have not been in any general engagement but have been under fire of some kind nearly every day. I am glad we are out of sight of that infernal Kenesaw Mountain. We meandered around it until I was heartily tired of the sight of it. Our Division did a very pretty thing one day (I have lost all record of days and dates) last week. Taking advantage of a blinding rain we moved forward about a mile. The regiment on the right of mine found itself about two hundred yards from the salient of a rebel work. By a continuous fire they prevented the rebels from using the Arty. or musketry while the rest of us set to work and threw up breastworks. During the nights the rebs left. Their works were very strong, but it was probably as much by accident as design that we struck just at the point and time that we did for we had to force our way through thick underbrush and through several streams. Our loss was only four or five, prisoners reported their loss between seventy & eighty. It seemed like changing the order of affairs for they were in good works with protection of the heads of Infantry and nice little works in rear for the officers. While ours were hastily thrown up under their noses and built of rotten logs, bushes etc. We followed them next morning about one mile and a half and found them at the foot of Kenesaw. Genl Baird had a narrow escape that morning. He with an aide rode forward about a mile, on his return he met four rebel soldiers armed with muskets. Neither the General or his aide were armed and were on a narrow road. The Genl rode up to the men and ordered them to give up their muskets and follow him. after some threatening on his part and demurring on theirs they gave up – the Genl rode in with their muskets on his shoulders and his prisoners following. My last letter to you was written while hugging the second line of breastworks closely under fire of Arty & muskets between the commencement and ending of that short epistle one of my men lost a leg by a minie bullet. That was not a pleasant place we had to throw up earth works to cook behind and dig trenches to go for water etc. We stayed there four days and left there in the night, well disposed to stretch our legs after such a siege of lying down. We came in here yesterday under a pretty sharp fire of shell and solid shot. I had only one man hurt and his was one of those rare cases of injury resulting from the passage of a shell without being actually touched by the projectile. One of my Capt. had a narrow escape – a shell struck in the earth under his feet exploded and tipped him over – he got up under the impression that he was torn in pieces – but found himself all right and without a scratch. Newton’s and Davis’ Divisions lost about eight hundred men yesterday morning and received a severe repulse. Poor Harker lost an arm then got a body wound. I started over to see him this morning but learned that he had died during the night. Very few men will be missed as he will – He was a gallant fellow and if he had any fault it was reckless bravery. Poor Bartleson was shot through the heart. Col. Dan McCook severely wounded. I heard this morning that Conrad and Jim Martin had been killed in front of Richmond – Graduates seem to be going rapidly. You must excuse this dirty letter for we are on a dusty hillside my table is a box of ten three inch Hotchkiss shells and I am sitting tailor fashion in the sand much to the injury of those pretty peg topped pants you dont like. The weather is a fruitful subject of complaint here – first cold rain then heat – We are on a heat tour now. You will have to imagine an amount of it for you certainly never experienced anything like this. We can see the spires in Marietta and wish we were in the town. It is not considered wrong for us to dodge bullets now for yesterday Genl Thomas was a couple hundred yds in front and to the left of my regiment, a shell came along quite close. The Genl. to the astonishment of everyone bowed (or vulgar) ducked as it passed. as he was supposed to be one of the few (in this world) who did not dodge a close shell, all we small fry think we can dodge all sorts of shots now.

Kiss the baby – love to all – dont forget to consult Dr. Blair about yourself – mind now. I have to close as the mail leaves at once.

Your loving husband

Cale

Nelson Diary

Wednesday, June 29,1864

Remained in the same place as yesterday. Nothing of particular note transpired in our vicinity. Weather very hot. Commenced making muster roll. Adams came over.

Colonel Caleb Carlton Letter from near Marietta

Camp South West of Marietta, Ga.

June 29th 1864

Dear Little Wife

My letter of yesterday was written with my usual want of forethought without thinking of the amount of paper on hand or the length of time before the mail left so doubtless you found it an interesting epistle. We are still in the Camp we located day before yesterday in front of Hardees Breastworks. The line on our right was charged last night by the Rebs. With what result I have not learned, probably their intention was to get a few prisoners to question to find out what we were about – I was about drinking a cup of artificial lemonade at the time the firing commenced but as such luxuries are too rare to lose I stumbled back after the affair was over to finish the liquid. Wandering about in the dark I stepped on a negro asleep in the sand and took a tumble over him, as my spurs were fast in his clothing and I kicked strongly to rise and he yelled in proportion. We had quite an absurd affair for a short time, the knees of my pants suffered severely and my temper slightly. The negros clothing somewhat as well as his nerves his sudden and ponderous awakening was hardly calculated to calm even a white man. Poor Harkers body was sent to New Jersey last night. We know but little about the contemplated movements here. In fact look to the papers for most of the news we get.

Your letter of the 20th is the last I have received from you – I write as often as possible and carry envelopes directed in my pocket so that I can send a letter when opportunity offers, but very often am unable to send a letter for four or five days. Does the baby grow much, how much does he weigh – and what has become of those teeth he was going to have when I left.

Col. Von asked after him this morning. It seems rather rapid to put the young man in short clothes so soon still he will be much cooler this warm weather. Do you expect Mrs. Foster to visit Cleveland. You mention that she has not made her appearance yet. Why dont you get Rhoda and Jim to run down to Niagara for a day or two with you – go by steamer to Buffalo, youens could visit Aunt Em there. It would be a variety for you all for a few days – Tell Rhoda I do not write to her because it is usually as much as I can do to write to you and when I hear of a chance to send a letter never have time to write more than one and very often fail to get that in in time. I expect her to write to me however. We have but few accommodations on this campaign but one waggon to a regiment and very often do not see that one for four or five days at a time – so we usually have nothing but what we carry on our horses or backs. It is the right way to campaign only this campaign is too long – every body is getting used up. We lose a few men every day killed or wounded and a good many break down – I have lost nine men killed and wounded and sixteen sent back (sick) in the last ten days. You see the proportion of unfit for duty from sickness is nearly double that injured by the enemy and it is usually so. I am well and am getting as sun burnt as possible. Col. Le Favor sent me the reply he received from the Adjutant General about our Leave of Absence it decides that we have to refund half pay. Genl. Harker – Turchin and several Colonels have had their pays stopped for failing to render ordnance returns. I received notice that mine was to be stopped also. It seems they have not received a return for H. Comp ordnance for 3d Q of 62. They sent me three notices about it but I of course did not receive them until I reached the regiment as the retain papers are with you I cannot furnish them with a copy until this campaign is over. I have written to the Adjutant General but have not received a reply yet. I hope they wont stop it until after this pay day however.

Love to all. Send me by mail a vial of the oil of lemon and a small quantity of citric acid for lemonade.

Write often little woman.

Your loving husband

Cale

Nelson Diary

Thursday 30

Remained on the hill among the valley until afternoon when we moved to the right + front about ½ mile relieving Geary’s Div., 20th A.C. Mustered. Wrote to John.