September 64

Undated: I – The company, with the regiment, left Jonesborough, Georgia in September 1864. Arrived at or near Atlanta, Georgia September --. Went into camp and stayed.

1: FS – In camp near Atlanta, Georgia. The regiment lay in the second line of works about four miles south of Jonesborough and was in support during the action of the afternoon of that day. C – In action at the battle of Jonesborough. D – Participated in the battle of Jonesborough. No casualties. E – The company was with the regiment. Marched eight miles to Jonesborough, Georgia and witnessed but was not engaged in action at that place. G – Participated in the battle of Jonesborough, Georgia. K – Company K was in the action at Jonesborough. Lost one man wounded.

2: FS – Moved two miles nearer Jonesborough.

5: D – We were last mustered near Jonesborough, Georgia. G – Was mustered near Jonesborough, Georgia by Captain Grosvenor.

6-8: E – Marched to Atlanta, distance twenty miles, where we went into camp and remained.

6: FS – Moved northward toward Atlanta. G – Left Jonesborough. K – Left Jonesborough. Marched to Atlanta.

7: FS – Passed through Rough and Ready. K – Arrived at Atlanta. Remained in camp near Atlanta.

8: FS – Camped two miles southwest of Atlanta. Remained here. B – Marched to Atlanta. Put up tents. Built winter quarters. C – The regiment went into camp at Atlanta, Georgia. D – Arrived in Atlanta. F – Marched to Atlanta, Georgia. Went into camp and remained. G – Arrived at Atlanta and went into camp. H – Marched to Atlanta. Put up tents. Built winter quarters.

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October 64

3: FS – Broke camp and moved northward with the other portion of the Army. A – Left Atlanta after [John Bell] Hood and his Army. Went with General Sherman’s Army after Hood and mustered at Rome, Georgia. B – Started after Hood. Have marched from Atlanta to Marietta, from there to Acworth, Big Shanty, Adairsville, Kingston, Rome, Resaca southwest to Summerville and thence to Gaylesville, Alabama. From there to Rome, where we now are encamped. C – The regiment moved from Atlanta. Recrossed the Chattahoochee River marching northwestward, passing through Ringgold, Calhoun, Resaca, and Summerville. D – Left Atlanta. E – We were again on the march with General Sherman to defeat General Hood in his object to cut our communication. F – Started in pursuit of Hood. Have marched from Atlanta to Marietta; thence to Acworth, Big Shanty, Kingston, Calhoun, Resaca, Summerville; thence to Gaylesville, Alabama, where we are now encamped. The company has not been in any engagements since muster. G – Left Atlanta and marching in a northerly direction passed Marietta, Allatoona, Cartersville, Kingston, Calhoun, Resaca, and Summerville, Georgia to Gaylesville, Alabama on the Chattooga River. From thence to Rome, Georgia. H – Started after Hood. Have marched from Atlanta to Marietta, from thence to Acworth, Big Shanty, Adairsville, Kingston, Rome, and Resaca, from thence to Summerville then to Gaylesville, Alabama, from there to Rome, where we are now encamped. I – Took up line of march. K – We took the line of march. Crossed the Chattahoochee at Vining’s Station. Leaving Marietta to our right we passed Kenesaw, Allatoona, Cartersville, and Kingston, from there to Rome then passing through Resaca and to the left of Dalton. Crossed Taylor’s Ridge seven miles from Ringgold. Passed Summerville. Camped a week at Gaylesville, Alabama.

4: D – Passed near Marietta. I – Crossed the Chattahoochee River. Arrived at Kenesaw Mountain October --, then went on a reconnaissance to Lost Mountain but found no enemy from Kenesaw Mountain to near Acworth. Camped there a few days. From Acworth marched along the railroad. Passed Allatoona.

6: FS – Passed through Marietta, having taken a circuitous route to the left after crossing the Chattahoochee River near the railroad bridge. D – Went on scout toward Dallas and returned. In the march passed through Allatoona, Cartersville, Kingston, Calhoun, Resaca, Summerville, Georgia; Gaylesville, Alabama to Rome, Georgia. E – We arrived at Pine Knob near Marietta, Georgia.

7: E – Went on reconnaissance towards Dallas, seven miles, and returned. We then marched to Allatoona.

10: FS – Passed through Allatoona.

11: FS – Passed through Kingston. E – Arrived at Kingston. I – Arrived at Kingston.

12: FS – Camped near Rome, Georgia. E – Arrived at Rome. I – From Kingston marched to Rome.

14: FS – Passed through Calhoun. Arrived at Resaca (via Calhoun). I – Marched to Resaca. There Hood had tore up the railroad track.

15: FS – Passed through Resaca over John’s Mountain. I – Marched and camped on the top of one of the mountains in Rocky Face Range.

16: FS – Passed through Snake Creek Gap. I – Passed through Snake Gap.

17: E – Pursued Hood through Snake Gap and crossed Taylor’s Ridge at Nickajack Gap.

18: FS – Went through the Gap and moved southward on the west side to Taylor’s Ridge.

19: E – Arrived at Summerville, Georgia. I – Arrived at Summerville, Georgia.

20: FS – Passed through Summerville, Georgia and camped near Gaylesville, Alabama on the same evening. C – Arrived and camped near Gaylesville, Alabama. E – Arrived at Gaylesville, Alabama, where we camped. I – Marched to Gaylesville, Alabama. Camped there some eight days.

29: FS – Started toward Rome, Georgia. C – Moved from Gaylesville. E – Marched to Rome, Georgia.

30: FS – Camped within a mile of that place; distance traveled during September and October 250 miles. C – Arrived at Rome, Georgia. Whole distance traveled in all, 200 miles. D – We arrived at Rome. E – Arrived at Rome. Distance marched, since last muster, 236 miles. I – Marched to Rome, Georgia; distance marched in twenty-seven days 200 miles. K – Arrived at Rome again marching in all 235 miles.

31: D – We were last mustered near Rome, Georgia. G – We were mustered.

Nelson Diary

Thursday, September 1

About 10 a.m. left our square fort, returned to Brig. Advanced south in severe fight supporting 2nd Div. which lost severely. One Brig. of our Div. engaged, lost heavily. Built light works.

Colonel Caleb Carlton Letter from Rough & Ready

Camp near Rough & Ready Ga

Sept 1st 1864

My Dear Little Wife

Your favors of Aug. 22 & 25 arrived today- We are on our way to Atlanta. Our Corps is Rear Guard of the army, our Div. the rear of the Corps and our Brigade the rear Guard of the Division. We have reached this point without trouble the rebels seem glad to get rid of us- We are to be stationed two or three miles from Atlanta. I intend to send for you to join me or shall try for a leave. Cannot tell which for a day or two- until we are located and I can see what arrangements can be made- I am going to see old Von and see what chance there is. I will telegraph if you have to come and send you a pass and one for Father so he can escort you down here- If I decide to have you come. As the 20 Corps is to garrison Atlanta perhaps Mrs. Ross will join her husband there- At any rate when you come you must not come without an escort- It is a long distance South. & I think I shall at any rate try a Leave first. The mail leaves at once so good bye little woman.

Your loving husband

Cale

Nelson Diary

Friday 2

Went over the battlefield. Moved about a mile. Built breastworks on R.R. Dead rebs scattered all around. Moved about a mile S.E. + threw up light works. Tore up the R.R. above Jonesboro. Our army after the rebs.

Nelson Diary

Saturday, September 3, 1864

Rec’d news of capture of Atlanta. Sent mail out. All quiet, we remain on the road where we came last night. It rained considerably. I went to rebel hospital a short distance from camp, 4 surgeons, 9 attendants, 50 badly wounded in a miserable condition, but little firing.

Colonel Caleb Carlton Letter near Jonesboro

20 miles South of Atlanta

Camp near Jonesboro Ga

Sept 3d 1864

My Dear Little Wife

Until today we have been without communication with the North- No mail yet. Hood has been outgeneraled this time. I suppose the Telegraph has informed you that our troops occupy Atlanta. The rebels badly deceived the night after we left the front of Atlanta. They had torchlight procession etc- a regular jollification thinking we had retreated. They would not believe that a large part of our army was moving in this direction so they sent only down here to look after what they thought was our cavalry- Afterwards they sent a second Corps- and thinking to capture our party they attacked Howard but were repulsed. On the 1st my birthday our Corps charged their works carried them and took several hundred prisoners and several pieces of artillery.

I shook hands with old Von under fire. He had just returned from Nashville. He said that Mrs. Von wrote to you as soon as she heard of baby’s death- have you received her letter.

Some heavy fighting today but I suppose Hoods troops from Atlanta will succeed in joining Hardee and Lee. The militia seen to have gone to pieces for we cannot hear of them as an organized body. The story goes that the explosions caused by the rebels destroying their munition in Atlanta the night of the 1st- stampeded the militia as they thought it was the Yankees attacking them- The Surgeons report a number of men in the Hospital with bayonet wounds received in our charge on the 1st some received by rebels & some by our men- several hundred of the rebels wounded are in the houses around our Camps. The surgeons with them acknowledge a loss of four or five thousand in their charge on Howard on the 1st. Of course our loss was the heaviest as we charged them though I suppose we make it up in prisoners. Capt. Kellogg of the regulars was killed on the rebel breastworks. I have not heard of Capt. Norton. The campaign does not seem to be ended yet. I suppose if possible we will keep pressing them and not give them time to get over the effect of their retreat –

Love to all Little Wife. I think the mails will be regular hereafter.

Many kisses for you.

Your loving husband

Cale

Nelson Diary

Sunday 4

Are still where we stopped Friday. Moved the wounded rebs to Jonesboro. But little firing heard and that distant. Are required to partly make out muster rolls. Weather very warm.

Nelson Diary

Monday 5

Moved camp about 200 yards. Was mustered. All tolerable quiet toward the front, but little firing heard. Rec’d letter from John and Judd. Commenced a letter to John + Allie.

Colonel Caleb Carlton Letter near Jonesboro

Camp near Jonesboro Ga

Sept 5th 1864

My Dear Little Wife

The mail is in but no letter from you, Your last letter was dated Aug. 20th. So I am very cross this evening, intend to play whist and eat water melon. If we had any whisky I should drink quite a quantity tonight for spite. Unfortunately there is no liquor to be had and has not been for a number of days.

It is doubtful how long our Corps will remain here. It is the impression here that the campaign is over and that we are to go back to Atlanta for rest and pay. Cant tell but hope it is the correct report for I am tired and there is no chance for glory if I was not. I hope this tent wont come down. The wind and rain are doing their best to bring it down and the guy barely saves it every other moment. Yours in haste, Little Woman,

Your loving husband

Cale

Write often my darling.

Nelson Diary

Tuesday, September 6, 1864

Were aroused between 2 + 3 a.m. with orders to be ready to move by daylight. Was ready but had to wait until nearly 12 n. when we went back to near where we first formed line of battle on the 1st. Camped. Saw Jim Cook. All bound for Atlanta.

Wednesday 7

Started again early for Atlanta, our Brig. in the rear. Marched hard, passed through Rough + Ready. Camped just before night. Received mail, letter from Barber. Weather pleasant. Good roads.

Nelson Diary

Thursday 8

Were aroused by 2:30 this morning. Started about 3:30 for Atlanta. After daylight, it was very pleasant marching. Arrived at Atlanta about 9 a.m. Only saw the suburbs. After noon, moved out the Macon R.R. and camped in thick bushes.

OR, I, Series 72, Vol 38/1, pp. 784-785. Extract. Carlton Report, 8 Sep on Atlanta Campaign

FROM: C. H. CARLTON, Colonel Eighty-ninth Ohio Infantry. Headquarters Eighty-Ninth Ohio Infantry, Near Atlanta, Ga., September 8, 1864.

TO: Capt. W. B. CURTIS, Asst. Adjt. Gen., 1st Brig., 3d Div., 14th Army Corps.

SIR: I have the honor to transmit the following report of the part taken in the campaign by the Eighty-ninth Ohio Infantry from the 7th of August to the 8th of September, 1864:

…September 1, assisted in destroying the railroad. Moved back and joined our brigade at 11 a.m. and moved to the right about three miles. A portion of our division being warmly engaged with the enemy, we moved forward at a double-quick and took up a position under fire. The force engaged having taken the enemy's works, held them; we threw up slight works and bivouacked for the night. 2d, enemy having evacuated the town in the night, we moved a short distance toward Jonesborough and threw up a line of works facing north. At dark we moved one mile to the east and south of Jonesborough, threw up works, and bivouacked for the night. 6th, moved toward Atlanta and bivouacked for the night about two miles from Jonesborough. 7th, moved north and bivouacked for the night about two miles north of Rough and Ready. 8th, moved to White Hall and went into camp about two miles from Atlanta.

The following number of casualties occurred in the regiment from 7th August to September 8, 1864: Wounded, 1 commissioned officer and 7 enlisted men.

I am, very respectfully, your obedient servant.

OR, I, Series 72, Vol 38/1, pp. 763-766. Extract. Walker, Brigade Report, 8 Sep on Atlanta Campaign

FROM: M. B. WALKER, Colonel, Commanding Brigade. Hdqrs. First Brig., Third Div., 14th Army Corps, Atlanta, Ga., September 8, 1864.

TO: Maj. JAMES A. LOWRIE, Asst. Adjt. Gen., Third Division, 14th Army Corps.

MAJOR: I have the honor to submit the following report of the operations of my brigade from the 7th day of August to the 8th instant, inclusive:

…On the morning of the 1st [Sept], by direction of General Baird, I withdrew my troops from the railroad. At 12 m. marched with the other brigades on the Jonesborough road, having detached the Thirty-first Ohio to guard the trains at ------- Creek; passed the Second Brigade and formed a line of battle; was soon ordered to move to the front, our troops new having engaged the enemy and a brisk fight going on about one mile north of Jonesborough. On coming up I found Moore's brigade, of Carlin's division, and Este's, of ours, about ready to assault the enemy's works; received orders to support their lines; formed my brigade at a double-quick. The assault having commenced, I received an order from General Baird, through Major Connolly, to move farther to the right and support Este if necessary; moved rapidly up within about 150 yards of Este's line and ordered my men to cheer the gallant fellows who were then driving the enemy from his works. This they did with a will, knowing that their old comrades, with whom they had stood side by side at Perryville, Stone's River, Hoover s Gap, Chickamauga, and Mission Ridge, and all through the great campaign, were in the deadly breach. But it was soon over. The work was done and the Third Brigade immortalized, and but 12 of my brave men had won the renown of being struck in this most brilliant affair. The enemy's works being carried, I relieved Colonel Este's brigade with my front line, and assisted in carrying off his killed and wounded--alas! too many of whom we found upon that bloody field. Groping my way in the darkness to those bloody trenches, stumbling at almost every step over the dead and dying as I placed fresh lines of men in them, in the midst of other thoughts I shuddered that such was the work of my countrymen. At midnight, and for an hour later, the air was rent by the explosion of ammunition at Atlanta. At 10 a.m. of the 2d I was ordered to advance toward the town. The enemy had retreated, leaving us to bury their dead and care for their badly wounded. Formed a new line, facing diagonally to the rear; at night took up a new position north of east and about one mile from the town of Jonesborough. On the morning of the 3d discovered five of the enemy's field hospitals in which were yet remaining over 300 badly wounded men, several surgeons and hospital attendants, and one chaplain. On the 3d, 4th, and 5th remained in camp sending out small foraging parties, who took in all about 25 prisoners. At 12 m. on the 6th marched to a position about one-half mile from the battleground. On the 7th, acting as the rear guard, marched to a position one and a half miles from Rough and Ready and encamped for the night. At 4 a.m. on the morning of the 8th took charge of the trains and marched to our present position. The health and spirits of the brigade are good. We claim only to have borne an honorable part in the great campaign. I herewith forward a complete list of casualties, together with reports of regimental commanders, some of which, I regret to say, are not prepared with as much care as they deserve, but as I wish to apologize for the same deficiency in my own, I ask a like favor to be shown them. Our hearts are all too full of the happy results of our labors, perils, and privations to admit the work of detail or finish. My thanks are due in some measure to every officer under me. I might report the same in this of those who are personally mentioned in my former report. They have added to their deserts by their good conduct throughout the campaign, but words avail but little and I have nothing but good words to bestow, yet I will ever be their witness before the world that they have done their duty.

Nelson Diary

Friday, September 9, 1864

Spent most of the day in policing and fixing up quarters. Weather very hot. An order allowing 12 men to go to town from the Reg’t a day.

Colonel Caleb Carlton Letter near Atlanta

Camp 2 miles South of Atlanta Ga

Sept 9th 1864

My Dear Little Wife

We are now cleaning up our Camps in expectation of a month’s rest. I shall either send for you or apply for a leave- probably the latter but cannot tell yet. Everything is in confusion as yet- reorganization of everything- back returns- reports etc- so everybody is busy- A great many citizens were trapped in Atlanta. Genl. Sherman has ordered them all to leave and has given them permission to go either North or South as they may wish. It is pretty hard on them, but is necessary for it is as much as we can do to feed the army without feeding an army of citizens.

Col. Von has not decided what to do about Mrs. Von yet. This place is a long distance South and not a particularly safe road to it- besides I think the living here will be very poor although expensive. As far as the expense is concerned it will be about the same whether I go on leave or you come here. It is doubtful whether Sherman will grant any passes for citizens or ladies to come down on the cars or not. I have not been into the City but expect to ride through it this afternoon. I shall try and find the place I stayed when passing through it as a prisoner.

The nights are very cool now, but it is hotter in the day time than it has been any time this season. We have a very poor camp. It will take three or four days to clear the ground of briars and old logs.

We have received Grant’s and the President’s congratulatory order upon our campaign but no news since. The road has been torn up between Chattanooga and Nashville but I suppose we will have the communications open again in a few days- If not I suppose some of us will be sent up to assist in clearing the road- There is great anxiety to hear the result of the Chicago Convention. It don’t affect me however for I donot take any interest in such things and don’t much care who is President provided it is not Fremont. I suppose the family are excited upon the subject.

I will let you know in a few days about our movements. I hear that substitutes are from 1000 to fifteen hundred in Cleveland. Father wrote to me a few days since. No news from Rhoda. Write often little wife – I hope we will be able to meet soon.

Your loving husband

Cale

OR, I, Series 72, Vol 38/1, pp. 780-781. Extract. 31st Ohio, 9 Sep Report on Atlanta Campaign with 89th

FROM: F. W. LISTER, Lieut. Col., Comdg. Thirty-first Ohio Vet. Vol. Infty. Hdqrs. Thirty-First Ohio Vet. Vol. Infantry, Atlanta, Ga., September 9, 1864.

TO: Capt. W. B. CURTIS, Asst. Adjt. Gen., 1st Brig., 3d Div., 14th Army Corps.

CAPTAIN: In compliance with orders from brigade headquarters, I beg to submit the following supplemental report of the operations in which my regiment took part from the 5th ultimo to the close of the campaign. …

[August] 31st, advanced a mile; threw up works: at 1 p.m. cross Flint River and threw up works in woods in view of roads on which enemy's columns were passing; at 6 p.m. the regiment, with the Eighty-second Indiana, move out on the railroad to Morrow's Station, to re-enforce Eighty-ninth Ohio; build works during the night on the railroad and prepare to hold them against any force; the energy displayed by both officers and men in constructing works, and general soldierly bearing of the entire command, was praiseworthy in the highest degree. …

Nelson Diary

Saturday 10

Spent the day very much as yesterday. Jim goes to Atlanta which is about 1 ½ miles off. A mail but nothing for me. Mailed letter to S. L. Wallace. John + Co. histories to Gen. Ramsey. Descriptive list to Barber.

Sunday 11

All quiet but little cleaning up. Inspection. Wrote to Allie. Rec’d application for certificate of disability of A. Purdam, filled + forwarded it. Wrote to Mark Baker.

Monday, September 12, 1864

The whole Reg’t with the 82nd Ind. are on picket, my relief goes on at midnight. Col. Carlton goes off on leave of absence. Foraker, adjutant; DeBolt commands Co. A. Very pleasant weather.

Tuesday 13

Was relieved from picket by 2nd Minn. Finished muster + payrolls and worked more in cleaning up camp. Weather pleasant. Saw Stevenson +c from column.

Wednesday 14

Was detailed as officer of the day. Had inspection by Grosvenor. Moved tent further to rear. Commenced letter to sister J.

Nelson Diary

Thursday, September 15, 1864

Was relieved from officer of the day by Lt. DeBolt. Rec’d pass and went to Atlanta. Went to 73rd. Went to where ammunition was destroyed. Went to engine house +c +c. Rec’d letters from Aunt P. + sister J.

The Scioto Gazette of 11 Oct 64, Corp J. F. Hill Letter from Atlanta

3d Div 14th A. C., Hospital

Atlanta, Ga. Sept. 15th 1864.

Mr. Editor: - Sherman’s great campaign in Georgia for the present has come to an end; closing in my opinion one of the most successful and gigantic campaigns known in history. And the finale of the drama was the strategic capture of this place on the 2d inst after a warm siege of 40 days. Glory enough for one day.

I feel proud to say that this army has endured and accomplished more than any other army ever did upon the continent. For four months there has not a single day past in which I have not heard the keen whistle of the Minnie ball, or the booming of artillery. The march has been a laborous one, and one in which we have faced danger at every step. From the Rockbound Ridges of Resacca, to the deep forests of the Gate City we have contested every foot of territory. And that too under a scorching summer’s sun. But the boys bore it nobly. The health of the men has been good. Besides we were well clothed, and as for food we never had our rations reduced an ounce and that of good, wholesome diet always.

You will learn ere this, that the finishing stroke was put on by the old 14th Army Corps. How valiantly she went into the fight on the 1st inst near Jonesboro Ga., accomplishing what never had yet been done in this campaign before by either side – the charging of well built works and taking them by direct assault. This was done by the 3d Div., Gen. Baird’s. Under a slaughtering and murderous fire of the enemy one single line of our men captured two lines of the enemy, but at the great loss of over third their men either killed or wounded.

Hood’s flower of Southern chivalry will go to seed now, and I am positively sure it will never propagate again in Northern Georgia.

This army is enjoying a good rest now, and indications are very favorable (Sutlers being up) that we will soon be blessed with plenty of Greenbacks. It will not be a miss, for this army has not had any pay for the last eight months. The boys here will go it tooth and toe-nail, for Abe and Andy, and rest assured that our friend Joe. E. Stevenson will not be a shade behind.

My strength will not allow me to write any more, as I have done this lying flat on my back suffering from a severe wound in my left leg, bone fracture, received at Jonesboro, Ga., September 1st 1864.

John F. Hill,

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

Nelson Diary

Friday 16

Nothing of particular importance transpires. All quiet in camp. Wrote to Sister Jennie.

Private S. Weaver to his Sister from Atlanta

Atlanta Ga. Sept 19th. 1864

Miss Mary K. Weaver.

Dear Sister:

I take my pencil in hand to let you know where and how I am getting along. I am in the Division Hospital yet. I am not as well as I was 5 or 6 days ago, but I am right smart better to-day than I was yesterday and last night. Yesterday I had very severe pains in both sides and back and bowels. I have a slight pain in my bowels and back, but I don’t mind it much. You need not be surprised if you should see me some where about there if I don’t get any worse. I forgot to tell you that my diarrhoea had got a good deal better. We have a very nice place for a hospital here. Dr Crew was going to try and get my discharge, but he thought it would take too long, so he thought it best to give me a furlough, it has been gone 3 or 4 days. I received that dollar and piece of Kate’s dress.

No more at present.

Sam. Weaver.

Nelson Diary

Monday 19

Nothing of particular importance transpires except the return of Lt. Col. Glenn from being absent just one year in prison.

Nelson Diary

Tuesday 20

Went to the 90th O.V.I. Saw Jim Cook. Went over the battleground of July 22nd which plainly shows hot work. Graves scattered promiscuously around express line open through.

Wednesday, September 21, 1864

Was ordered out early with a squad of men for fatigue duty at Div. H. Went to 73rd, ate dinner with Capt. Barris + mess. Received letter from sister J., Allie, Ada + Ally B.

Nelson Diary

Thursday 22

The weather disposed to be rainy. My birthday. Am officer of day. Wrote to sister Adelia. Are rearranging camp.

The Highland News of 20 Oct 64, Private C. E. Lemar Letter from White Hall

Camp 89th O. V., White Hall, Ga.,

September 22, 1864.

Mr. Editor: - Having a few leisure moments, and thinking that a few lines would interest the readers of your worthy paper, I have concluded to write.

After a very laborious and severe campaign of four months, we have come to a halt, for the purpose of resting and re-organizing the Army. We arrived here on the 8th inst. and are encamped about two miles south-west of Atlanta, on the Macon Railroad. Our Camps are very pleasantly situated here, on rolling ground, principally in the woods, which make it more comfortable during the heat of the day. The weather, however, is more pleasant than usual at this time of the year in this country. The nights are quite cool. The health of the Army is good and our number appears to increase rather than diminish. The men are in excellent spirits over the great victory of Gen. Sherman, the defeat of Hood, and the occupation of Atlanta, the Southern stronghold.

I will not attempt to give a definite description of Atlanta, but will say it is a large city, scattered over considerable territory. The city is completely riddled with shot and shell. Many houses are almost entirely demolished. Some have as many as sixteen hole through them, and some blocks are entirely destroyed, nothing being left but blackened walls and ruins, to mark where once stood magnificent buildings.

The city is very strongly fortified, being entirely encircled with entrenchments, and in some places there are three lines, extending a distance of 22 miles at least. On the circle there are upwards of 50 forts, and in front of the lines there are from one to five rows of sharpened sticks and brush, to impede the progress of the advancing foe, should they attempt to storm the works. It would have been madness to have tried to carry these works by storm. No men could have done it.

Gen. Sherman is an able commander. He has shown his military qualities and abilities during this great campaign. He has defeated and driven the enemy from every position which he occupied, from Ringgold to Jonesboro, killing capturing and disabling 45,000 men of Hood’s army. We all love him and have great confidence in him and his subordinates.

Perhaps you would like to know how we stand in regard to political matters. I will tell you. We are for the Union, and the Administration as it is, with one exception, viz: we want Andrew Johnson for Vice-President. We are satisfied with Lincoln. We believe that he has managed this country to the best of his ability under the Constitution. We do not wish a change. We think a change would be disastrous to us. What do the Richmond papers say? They say that the very existence of the Rebellion is staked on the success of the Democratic party at the coming election, and that it is the duty of the rebels to aid the election of McClellan, by defeating Grant if possible, before November. I am no politician – never made a political speech, or wrote a political letter, in my life; but the time has come when all should speak, and not only speak, but act.

Our cause must never be abandoned. It is a just cause, and we will fight it out. We have served three years under the Administration, and are willing to serve three more, if necessary for the restoration of the Union. Some of those with whom we stood shoulder to shoulder in the campaign of 1860 have left us, and now denounce us as "Lincoln Hireling’s," "Black Abolitionists," &c., but they do not spite us in the least, for I assure you that we don not crave the friendship of such men. Far from it. We have some respect for the men who will come out openly and boldly and fight us, but we have no respect for those Northern Traitors.

They are more than enemies – they are (or should be) beneath the notice of every loyal man. Some of these very men used to hold petty offices in the Democratic party, and lost them by dishonesty. These men are now looking about them to see where their bread and butter is coming from. They at first found fault with the war, and then with the Administration. Some of them come out openly for disunion. They say the South had a right to secede, and we had no right to coerce them. They have introduced features into their platform and speeches indicating that if they cannot succeed or secure their end at the Ballot Box, they will imitate the Southern wing of their party and rebel. They demand that the rebels (Democrats) in the Border States shall be permitted to vote, and that "any attempt to prevent them at the coming election, shall be held as revolutionary, and resisted with all the means and power under their control." If these men be allowed to vote and then return to the Southern Army, why not allow the men of South Carolina, Alabama and Georgia to vote, and thus elect McClellan beyond a doubt? They say that "in the future as in the past" (not otherwise) "they will adhere to the Union." How have they adhered "in the past?" By rebelling in every State which they have controlled. Then this is what they are pledged to do in the future.

Loyal men of the North; are you satisfied with such a pledge, coming from those whose antecedents are (to say the least) so suspicious? We are not, I assure you, and will fight such pledges to the last.

Some of them say that the ticket and the platform "are what the exigencies of the country require, and such as every loyal citizen, not blinded by sectional passion, can heartily endorse." It may look so to some, but after serving the Government for three years, and enduring all the privations and hardships of a soldier, we "can’t see it" in that light. What does their Platform contain? It contains nothing in favor of the Monroe Doctrine, nothing in favor of suspending the operation of the draft for 500,000 men, not a word against the Emancipation Proclamation, nothing against the employment of Negroes as Soldiers or Sailors to fight the Rebels. Not a word about wiping out Slavery by military blows or by a change of the Constitution, not a word against Gen. Butler’s famous Contraband Doctrine, nothing against the Amnesty Proclamation, or Republican Congressional plan of Reconstruction, of the Confiscation of property of Rebels, real or personal, nothing of returning confiscated property to Rebels, not a word against the Repeal of the Fugitive Slave law, nothing against the Abolition of Slavery in the District of Columbia, nothing against the Congressional Prohibition of Slavery in the Territories, nothing against the Tax Law passed by a Republican Congress, not a word in favor of Repudiating the National Debt, not a word against Jeff. Davis or the Rebellion, nothing in favor of State Sovereignty and the Right of Secession, not a word against Coercing Sovereign States or against holding the Union together by Federal Bayonets, not a word in favor of Paying the Rebel Debt, nothing in favor of Encouraging White labor Emigration from Europe, and finally not one word in favor of going on with the war, in case the proposed Armistice fails to bring the Rebels back into the Union.

What do you think of such a platform? I will tell you what we think of it. We think that a Platform so contemptible and cowardly was never presented to a party in this or any other country, at any age. I will say again, we are satisfied with the Administration. We will stand by it, as it has by us. Its enemies are our enemies. We believe there should be but one Party in the North viz: the Union Party.

The Peacemen harp loudly on the suppression of the Press and freedom of speech. If Traitors are allowed to run at large in the North, why not allow them the same privilege in the South? Surely they have the same right. Home of our very worst enemies are in the North. They are doing all that they can against us, and yet they should be allowed to do and say what they please! Many of them have armed themselves to resist the Administration, and yet they should be "let alone!" After we have endured all the hardships of three years’ service, we cannot agree with these men, I assure you.

They tell us that McClellan is (or was) a Soldier. That is very true, and yet we have had as big Traitors in the army as in the North or South, but now we have honest men at the head of the Government, and in command of our Armies. Compare the last six months with the same period at any time when we were commanded by Traitors, and see the difference. We have taken more territory from them than ever was taken in the same length of time before, have captured more prisoners, taken more formidable works, captured the "Gate City," (Atlanta) with all of its manufactories and Railroads, besides accomplishing much more which is entirely unnecessary for me to mention, as you are mostly all well informed in regard to the military movements of the South.

In the meantime we have not been alone. Grant and others have accomplished much. Citizens of the North, a fearful responsibility is resting upon you. Turn from the error of your ways before it is too late. I speak of this that I may fire your hearts with holy indignation, and nerve your arms for unconquerable fight. We are for the Union and the Old Flag. Fathers, Brothers and Friends, will you help us with words of encouragement? You are bound, in justice to yourselves and Country, to sustain the soldiers in the field. You must do it with your sympathy and with your votes. And I assure you, if you love the soldier, you can testify it in no better way than by voting for Lincoln and Johnson. "And if liberty is to expire – if freedom is to be destroyed – if the country in all its length and breadth is to tumble beneath the oppressor’s tread – let the dear old Flag be planted on every house top, with this inscription – Here is the end of all that is dear to the heart and sacred to the memory of man."

P.S. I had forgotten to state that I had the pleasure of grasping the hand of our Lieut. Col. Wm. H. Glenn, he having been exchanged and is now safe with the 89th O. V. I. again. He presents to the boys the same smiling countenance as of old.

Capt. Jim Vickers is on hand – one of the "Boys" that like the service, and the service likes him, and that aint half. You can ask the boys he commands for the rest.

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

C. E. Lemar,

Yours truly,

Nelson Diary

Friday 23

Reg’t went on picket and left me on duty as officer of the day. Rained very hard. Theo Vaughn and J. Adam took a little of my hour. Mailed letters to sister A., Allie, Ally Brown.

Saturday, September 24, 1864

Reg’t on picket. I am still officer of the day. Relieved about 2 p.m. by Lt. DeBolt. Sent Hague’s descriptive list. Rec’d payrolls back for corrections.

Private J. Waits, Co. B, Letter to Private S. Weaver’s Father

Camp Atlanta Ga. Sept 27th .1864.

Dear Sir:

I take my pen in hand to pen you a few lines, in reference to your son Samuel. I am sorrow to tell you that he is dead, he died on the 21st day of this month. Sam has been unwell for the last year he was first taken with something like the dyspepsia, then he took the Dysentary with it he has had that all this summer. – for the two months before his death he was inclined to blood – some days it was worse on him than others – he left the regiment about three weeks before his death – he went to our division hospital – I was up to see him a few days before he died – he told me he thought he was getting better – he got his furlough to start home the day before he died. I have got his knapsack and what things he had I will send you them the first chance I get – some of our boys that lives in Williamsburg is coming on furlough – I will try and send them to you by them. Peter Lukemire is getting his discharge made out – he says he will take them to you if I don’t get to send them before. I got a letter that you sent to Sam last night, it had a dollar in it – I will just send it back to you in this letter, if you get this write me a few lines.

John Waits

to Mr Charles H. Weaver.

Private A. Bartley to his Parents, from Nashville

Hospital No. 3

Nashville September 29th

Dear Father and Mother

It is with pleasure that I improve the present in writing you to let you know how I am gitting along.

I received your very welcome letter yesterday. it found me well as usual. I was very glad to hear that you were all well and hope that this may find you as when that left you.

You sayed something about my getting a furlough. I can try it but I dont think it will do any good as they dont seem to be giving many just now.

I am getting along first rate. dont have much to do nor nuthing extry to eat through we have enough such as it is.

I am now on duty in ward No. 1. Nursing. we have a joly set of fellows in here and by the may I enjoy myself very very well yet I think I should enjoy myself a great deal better wer I there with you.

You spoke about my sending some money home. I am sorry to say that I cannot just now. we have not got our pay yet nor dont know when we should get it. we may get it tomorrow and we may not get it in a month.

I recd the two dollars you sent in your letter. it came in good time as I was out and to use an expression very often used in the army Completely Straped but I hope this will last me untill we get pay.

wel Father I guess I shall have to bid you goodby for the preasant. give my best respects to all enquiring friends. give my love to all the family reserving a good share for yourselves.

I remeane most respectfuly your most obedient Son.

Alford Bartley

The Highland News, Voice from a Soldier of the 89th Ohio.

Mr. Editor: I send you an extract of a letter from a soldier of the 89th O. V. I.

"If the Loyal people of the Northern States do their duty this fall, at the election, the Rebellion will end in November, by the re-election of Old Abe Lincoln as President of the United States. If the Peace Democracy succeeds in electing Geo. B. McClellan as President, no one can foretell when war will cease, as it will extend all over the United States, unless we agree to such terms as will be dictated to us by that arch traitor, Jeff Davis. These terms will be 1st, the independence of the Southern Confederacy; 2nd, the Northern States pay all the debts of the South; 3rd, the Northern States pay for the loss of all the niggers who have been freed during the war. On such terms Jeff Davis will treat with us for peace. I should like to see the man who is so lost to shame and love of Country, as to be willing to accept peace on such terms. Such a fool I would like to see once. There are none of them in the army.

"W. T. Grewber."

Private A. Bartley to his Parents, from Nashville

Hospital No. 3

Nashville Tenn Oct 12th 64

Dear Father & Mother

I received yours of the 7th yesterday and now seat myself to answer it. it found me wel as usual and in fine spirits.

I was glad to hear that you were all enjoying good health. I was sorry that my Brother has got into trouble from which he finds it difficult to extricate himself and am also sorry to say that I can not help him in any way. as for money I have not got any nor dont know when I shall get any. if they would pay mee I maght [might] send him some.

I think we shall have to wate [wait] until next Payday but I cant tell for certain. if they should pay us within a few days I will send you some. I am now to use a common expression, Pennyless but think I can get along without as long as I keep my health.

We had examinations the day before yestirday. I asked them to let me go to the front but they told me that I was not able consequently I have to stay here and Nurse. they sent off nearly all the Nurses we had but would not send me. they are getting to treating the men here more like dogs than men. we can not get a pass more than once in a week to go out in town and even what we get to eat is not of the best quality. it consists of Meat about ready to crawl off. Bread that tastes as though it had been soked in a tub of Vinegar. Slops that they call coffee or tea (it would be hard to tell from the taste which it was). it is no wonder that men get tiard [tired] of staying in such a hole. I am I assure you and shal go to the front as soon as I can get there and I am not alone in this. the nurses all say the same thing but I have run on about this institution long enough and as my writer has got a considerable to do I will close by asking you to write soon.

Give my respects to all enquiring friends.

I remain as ever your dutifull Son

A Bartley

Hurrah for old Abe

Private A. Bartley to his Parents, from Nashville

Convalescent Camp

Nashville Tenn Oct 18 ’64

Dear Father & Mother

I hasten to answer your letter which I received to day and was pleased to hear from you. Having recovered sufficiently to send away I have been transferred to the Convalescent Camp and hope soon to be able to join my regiment. Brother Tine is in Chattanooga and is well.

I have not seen him but have heard from him. I was sorry to hear that George was so unfortunate and am on hopes that he may soon recover. I have not received the ten dollars you speak if it was sent by mail it is probably lost as the mails are very irregular. If I should receive the money I will notify you immediately. Tell Aunt Nancy she need not be at all uneasy about me as it will give her unneccessary trouble. My health is improving so rapidly that it almost astonishes me.

Write often as it is a great source of pleasure for me to receive a letter from home.

No more

From your affectionate Son

Alfred Bartley

You will still continue to address me at Hospital No. 3 as I will be more certain to receive my letters.

HQ District of the Etowah, Col Carlton Order to Post CC

Head Quarters District of the Etowah

Chattanooga, Oct. 20th, 1864.

Special Order

No. 39.

Extract.

V. Pursuant to orders from the Maj Gen’l commanding Dep’t Cumberland, of 17th inst, directing Col. Carlton 89th Ohio Inft’y Vols. to report to these Head Quarters, for assignment to duty as Commander, Post Chattanooga, the assignment is hereby made, and Col. Carlton directed to assume command of the Post, relieving Col. T. R. Stanley, 18th Ohio Vols.

VI. Col. Carleton will consolidate the reports and returns of the regiments, detachments, and commands on duty at this Post, that do not report through other Channels to their respective army commanders, forwarding the Same direct to Head Quarters Dep’t Cumberland, and furnishing these Head Quarters with copies.

By command of Maj. Gen’l Steedman.

S. B. [?]

Maj. and A.A.G.

Dr. S. B. Crew’s, Surgeon, Letter to Private S. Weaver’s Father

Near Gaylesville Alabama

Oct 23d 1864.

Chas H. Weaver.

Dear Sir:

Your letter of the 27th of Sept. was received a few days ago, and I embrace the earliest oppurtunity to answer it. Your son Samuel died on the 17th of September in the 3d Division Hospital near Atlanta Ga. I was not engaged on duty at the Hospital at the time tho’ I had been most of the time during the Summer. But after the fight at Jonesboro on the 1st of September, I was ordered by the Medical Director to stay with the regiment as there was a probability of more fighting, and the wounded were sent on to Atlanta immediately. Our Corps (the 14th) moved up to Atlanta on the 7th of Sept, and I went to the Hospital, I think the next day to see the sick and wounded. I found Samuel there and for the first time considered that his case was assuming a serious character. I inquired of him if he had written home lately, and he said not. I proposed writing to you, but he said he was able [to] be up some of the time, and would write himself. I told him that [I] would do everything in my power, he thought then that he would be better in a few days, and I encouraged [him] by telling him I hoped so. I told him he must get North – get home just as soon as possible, that I did not think that there was any chance for him to get well in the Army or Hospital. I asked him if he wanted to go home. He said "if I thought best." I told him I did think so, and would make out his papers which I did that same day, and started them through the regular channel to Gen’l Thomas for they had to be approved by him. I spoke to the Surgeon in charge of the Hospital and the one prescribing for the sick in the ward where Samuel was, and they both promised me that he should have every care in their power. And I visited him myself as often as I could. Our camp was three miles from the Hospital and some days I could not get time to go as my duties were with the regiment. I saw him the day before he died – and told him that I thought him too weak to try to go home then, but he thought he would be stronger in a few days. He did get better every day for nearly a week after I first saw [him] in the Hospital, and the doctor tending on him thought so too, but he had a very strong appetite at times and he ate too much of something which caused a relapse of his diarrhoea that prostrated him so that he kept on sinking till he died. It is true your son had been subject to spells of diarrhea for a few days at a time, and I had paid special attention to him different times, and he would get better, in fact he was not so bad as to be unable for duty but once or twice for a day or two at a time, previous to his being sent to the Hospital. I assure you that I did every thing in my power for him as Dr. J. R. Arter Surgeon in charge of the Hospital at that time, and every one who knows anything about the case, will tell you. I felt very sorry to have him die away here from his friends, but I could not help it. His papers for a furlough, came to the regiment the day before he died, but too late to do any good. I regret it very much, and think it very bad management that papers can’t be got through in less than ten days, but they cannot.

Samuel was a moral and upright young man – a faithful and true soldier always at his post whether in camp or picket or skirmish line – in line of battle or on the charge. He was highly esteemed by his officers and beloved by his companions. I would have written at the time of his death but the boys in his company said they had done it. And his Captain (Vickers) sent for his things, and said just as soon as he could get a council of Administration called he would write to you and send his things to you. I saw Capt Vickers to-day; and he says his things are now boxed up in Atlanta – And that just as soon as he gets a chance he will send them to you. But we are in a heavy war down here, and have to do just as we are ordered.

Truly Yours

S. B. Crew.

P. S – We have been on a forced march for the last twenty days, and are expecting to set out in a day or two more after the enemy and perhaps follow them to Savannah. Anything I can do for you in giving any further information in regard to your son I will do most cheerfully.

But I am in the service of the Government and have to go where I am ordered. S. B. C.

A letter directed.

S. B. Crew

Surgeon 89th Reg. O – V – I

Atlanta Ga.

3d Div. 14th A. C.

I will get.

P. S. I will write again when I get a better chance. I have written this, sitting on the ground with a board on my lap, but this is a good chance for a soldier in the field. S. B. C.