Nov 64

2: FS – Marched from Rome, Georgia to Kingston, Georgia, where it remained. C – The regiment left Rome, Georgia. Arrived at Kingston, Georgia at 4 p.m. D – Moved to Kingston, where we remained. In the meantime, were paid for eight months. E – The company left Rome, Georgia. Marched to Kingston, fourteen miles, and encamped. F – The company left Rome, Georgia. Marched to Kingston, distance fourteen miles, and encamped. I – The regiment left Rome, Georgia arriving at Kingston at 4 p.m.

4: E – Was paid eight month’s pay.

5: F – Was paid eight month’s pay.

12: FS – It marched toward Atlanta, Georgia passing through Cartersville, Georgia and crossing the Etowah River camping about four miles beyond for the night. A – Left Kingston, Georgia. C – The regiment left Kingston tearing up the railway. D – Started for Atlanta, Georgia. E – Left for Atlanta. F – Left for Atlanta. I – The regiment left Kingston tearing up the railroad.

13: FS – Resumed the march passing through Acworth and to within five miles of Marietta, where it camped for the night.

14: FS – Left camp at daybreak. Passed through Marietta and crossed the Chattahoochee River and again camped for the night. A – Reached Atlanta, Georgia, distance forty miles.

15: FS – Marched to Atlanta, where it remained. C – Arrived at Atlanta. D – Arrived there. Remained there one day. E – Arrived at Atlanta in the morning, distance sixty miles. F – Arrived in the morning, distance sixty miles. I – Arrived at Atlanta. K – Went into camp.

16: FS – It started on the road through Georgia passing out on the Augusta Railroad. Assisted in tearing it up for several miles. A – Left Atlanta. Marched fifteen miles. C – Left Atlanta destroying Augusta Railroad to Covington. D – Started with General Sherman on his march southward. Did but little fighting. Was on skirmish line near Waynesborough. Drove the Rebel cavalry off the railroad. No casualties. E – Left Atlanta. F – Left Atlanta. I – Left Atlanta destroying the Augusta Railroad to Covington.

17: A – Made Lithonia, distance thirteen miles.

20: FS – Left the railroad and marched toward Milledgeville. A – Reached Milledgeville, Georgia.

23: FS – Reached Milledgeville. It remained there. C – Arrived at Milledgeville. E – Arrived at Milledgeville via Covington and Eatonton, distance 103 miles; thence to Louisville via Sandersville, distance fifty miles from the capital; thence to the Savannah and Augusta Railroad at Thomas’ Station. Marched from there to Savannah, 105 miles. F - Arrived at Milledgeville via Covington and Eatonton, distance 103 miles; thence to Louisville via Sandersville, distance fifty miles from the capital; thence to the Savannah and Augusta Railroad at Thomas’ Station. There part of the company was engaged in skirmish with Wheeler’s Cavalry. Marched from there to Savannah, 105 miles. I – Arrived at Milledgeville.

24: A – Reached Louisville. Supported Kilpatrick’s cavalry on raid to Winnsborough.

25: FS – It again resumed the march moving toward the Savannah River.

28: FS – Passed through Louisville, Georgia.

29: FS – Came up with our cavalry under General [Hugh Judson] Kilpatrick, who had been contesting with the Rebel cavalry and were then laying behind barricades. Moved up and relieved the cavalry.

30: FS – Lay in camp all day.

Dec 64

Undated: B – Since last mustered Company B had no engagements and has marched the distance of 353 miles. H – Since last muster the company has had no engagements, hence marched a distance of 353 miles.

1: FS – Moved out in direction of Savannah and Augusta Railroad.

3: FS – Struck it at Thomas’ Station. It then turned its course toward Savannah. C – The regiment in a lively skirmish. Engaged the enemy. Posted on the Augusta and Savannah Railroad driving him from his position. I - The regiment in a lively skirmish. Engaged the enemy posted on the Augusta and Savannah Railroad driving him from his position.

13: FS – Camped in front of the city, five miles from it. C – Arrived at Savannah. I – Arrived at or near Savannah.

20: E – Took possession [of Savannah] at night. Number of miles traveled, since last muster, 350.

21: C – The city being evacuated, we occupy the enemy’s works and camp near Savannah, Georgia; distance traveled 350 miles. F – Took possession [of Savannah]. The company has lost no men since last muster. Number of miles traveled, since last muster, 350. I – The city being evacuated, we occupied the enemy’s works. Distance marched from [November] 2 to the present time, 350 miles.

22: FS – The Rebels having evacuated Savannah the night of December 20, it moved up to within two and one-half miles of the city. A – Reached Savannah, Georgia, where we went into camp and still remain. D – Arrived near Savannah.

27: D – We were reviewed by General Sherman.

31: FS – Lay in camp in Savannah. D – We were mustered.

The Highland News of 5 Jan 65, W H Glenn Journal

Kingston, Georgia, Nov. 12, 1864.

Nov. 12 - Saturday. After almost week's rest we are finally relieved of all doubts as to our destination. We don't go to Chattanooga, but are on the move at 9 o'clock in the direction of Atlanta. Marched 4 miles beyond Centerville, making a march of 17 miles. Encamped at dark - all kinds of rumors - trains passing towards Chattanooga every little while, all loaded inside and out with refugees and Government property.

Nov. 13 - Sunday. Beautiful morning, clear and bright. Everything alive in camp preparatory to an early move. 'Tis rumored that we have a lot of railroad track to destroy to-day. At 7 o'clock we are on thee move. Our Regiment and 92nd Ohio are detailed at 10 o'clock to guard wagon train. The other Regiments of the Brigade are tearing up the railroad. The last train pawed this morning. The citizens are not yet ready for this. At every station we find families with their effects waiting to go North. The country is almost desolate of inhabitants, as well as subsistence. Pass through Altoona again today. Wounded rebels still there. A motley herd, now convalescent, are to be left here to the tender mercies of such citizens as are left and the Confederate Government--a poor prospect ahead for them.

At Acworth for dinner. The houses that are not occupied are all being burned. We are now cut off from all communications with our forces, and are hundreds of miles in the enemy's country. They will have to furnish our subsistence - won't be much left when we pass through the country - are worse than an army of locusts.

Sweet potatoes are very plenty. The "boys" say they are going to dig "Sherman's patch." Marched to Kenesaw, stopped at dark.

Nov. 14 - Monday. At six o'clock we are again on the road. Morning clear and cool. 9 o'clock, passed through Marietta. I think it one of the most beautiful towns I have ever seen. Built in a forest, nature presents her beauties, whilst art has been skillfully applied wherever improvements could be made. Many beautiful residences, ornamented with a great variety of flowers and shrubbery. The residence of John R. Wilder, Russian Consul, now at Savannah, is by far the most beautiful place I have seen. The landscape gardening is perfectly enchanting. Roses of all varieties in full bloom, enclosed by a beautiful evergreen hedge. 8 o'clock at night, stop on the banks of the Chattahoochie, having marched twenty-five miles.

Nov. 15-Tuesday. At daylight we are again moving on road to Atlanta, where we arrive at ten o'clock. Many houses on fire, Depot and shops already burned. Everything is lively, preparing to evacuate the place. Pass through the city and encamp on the Augusta road near town. Evening - a great part of the city is on fire; 'tis a magnificent sight, and one which I can enjoy, taking into consideration the manner of our treatment by the citizens when prisoners little more than a year ago. But I doubt the policy of burning more than public buildings, yet looking at the matter as regards the rights of Rebels, I think they have forfeited all claim to protection, and if the war had been prosecuted thus two years ago, we would have had no fighting to do now. We stop here to draw clothing and rations. Many rations were burned in the city, buildings being set on fire by straggling soldiers, without orders, or rather in violation of orders. Some one will suffer for such things hereafter.

Nov. 16 - Wednesday. Orders for marching at nine o'clock. Busy time - receive "Sherman's orders for the plan of campaign." Evidently are bound to pass through Georgia. At ten o'clock are moving on Augusta road; pass through Decatur and on towards Lithonia. Inhabitants are very much confused, certainly didnt look for the Yankees. Stopped 15 miles out, with orders to be ready to move at daylight to-morrow morning.

Nov. 17 - Thursday. Off at day-light. Passed through Lithonia, a small place. Several large houses burning, being vacant. Some women here, no men. Had seen Yankees once before, on Stoneman's raid. At twelve o'clock reached Conyers, quite a nice little town, and more women and children than I ever saw in one place - some rather good looking; better dressed and look more like civilization than most small places. Our Brigade tears up one mile of railroad before we get dinner - after dinner tear up another mile. All the iron is heated and bent - most effectively destroyed – "nary" straight rail left 31 miles from Atlanta, and all railroad track destroyed, and fifty miles on the other side, where we commenced.

A woman remarks, "You Yankees do beat all, tearing up the railroad when you know It never can be put down again, and you know peace well be soon too. I told John this was the way this thing would end. We would lose everything and then have to give up."

Two hundred rebel cavalry passed through this place to-day - the only troops we have yet heard of. Our foragers brought in quite a lot of sweet potatoes, chickens, honey, molasses, corn meal and flour. We got a very nice turkey for our mess. Are living high at the expense of the "Confederacy." I am making up for the short rations I got of them last winter. Ox teams and darkies pressed to bring in forage. Everything is known by the name of "forage." If you are asked where you got anything, the answer is "foraged for it." Travel till eight o'clock, after which we cook sweet potatoes, fry chicken, make coffee for supper. At ten o'clock in bed, prepared for a comfortable sleep. Ordered to move at ½ past 6 in the morning.

Nov. 18 - Friday. Up at ½ past four. Are within two miles of Yellow River, the bridge of which is burned. Pontoon bridge put down and pass over very little detention. After dinner tear up a mile of railroad. About forty miles this side of Atlanta now thoroughly destroyed. Pass through Covington this evening. A very nice place, plenty of women and children, but no men. This rule holds good every place. Rich plantations here - potatoes plentiful. Our boys found three barrels of Sorghum in a pine thicket; got all they could use and waste. Pork, potatoes, sorghum, chickens, and turkies are making our supplies. Had a very nice turkey for dinner to-day. Stopped one mile beyond Covington. Lamar, Marshall and Carter, of Highland county, all detailed at Brigade headquarters, were attacked to-day while out on an independent foraging expedition. Marshall and Carter either killed or captured. Lamar captured, and in making his escape received several severe, but not dangerous wounds. Very warm.

Nov. 19 - Saturday. Rained considerably through the night. Wet morning. Orders to move at sunrise. Captured a very nice gray mare this morning. Rain ceased about seven o'clock. Roads not very bad; sandy soil don't get very muddy. Are moving very slow today - sandy roads are very heavy for the teams. Turkey and sweet potatoes for dinner. Six of us in a mess got 15 lbs. of crackers on leaving Atlanta, and have plenty of them yet. March until 8 o'clock - raining and dark. Any number of negro women following our trains, with children of all ages from 4 years old and upward, many of them clad with nothing but a shirt. These little fellows have traveled for several days, making at least 15 miles a day. Our orders and the circumstances under which we are moving, do not permit us to give aid to such. They are permitted to exercise their own will in a struggle for liberty. Such able bodied men as desire to go along are organized into working parties and are made useful.

Nov. 20 - Sunday. Another wet day. Off at day-light. Rain beginning to tell on the roads -making very poor time. Wet sand getting into shoes and making a great many sore feet. Made about eight miles - stop at dark.

Nov. 21 - Monday. Still raining. At daylight we move again. Roads very bad. Crossed Little river - bridge for footmen, ford about mid-side deep. Only eight miles traveling until dark. Negro company still increasing.

Nov. 22 - Tuesday. Turned cold last night and wind blew very high all night. Again on the march at daylight. Still cold and windy. Roads astonishingly improved - can get along pretty dry to-day. Gen. Sherman passed our column this evening, in a good humor his countenance indicating that everything is going well. Stop about 4 o'clock on the farm of Howell Cobb, General of the Georgia militia. Has a very fine plantation. His "niggers," except the old ones, women and children have been moved off. The darkies say he has five plantations. He gets a good deal of the corn taken off him to-night.

[Top of Page]

Nov. 23 - Wednesday. Passed a very cold night - ice ½ inch thick this morning. Any quantity of Cobb's rails have disappeared during the night. Snowing a little. Two cotton gins and one press burned this morning. Are within eleven miles of Milledgeville. March again at daylight. Stop for dinner ½ past ten in five miles of the Georgia capital. Sun shining and getting warmer. Sherman passed us again this morning. Met Capt. Gates of 33rd Ohio in rear to-day - been within our lines a few days. Escaped from Columbia 22d of last month. He was captured at Chickamauga. The officers of the 89th are at Columbia. Capt. Glenn is in hospital, others are all well. They all escaped from the cars on the route from Charleston and were re-captured. Gates says they presented a pretty hard picture when they were brought in. I can imagine how they looked, having seen such pictures - ragged, dirty and decidedly "hard."

We encamped in one mile of Milledgeville, or rather in the outskirts of the town. Everybody visiting the city. I spent an hour looking around. The place is almost entirely deserted - a few negroes, and once and a while a family of white people left. The Penitentiary, Depot, and Arsenal have been burned. The Governor's mansion is about the finest building in town. It is unmolested. The State House is also standing, but troops are quartered in it and in the yard. A good part of it is used for storage of arms. A great many shotguns, old muskets and ammunition were left in it. The building is very plain - nothing like equal to the State House at Nashville. A great many of our officers are in the Senate Chamber, passing off the time holding a session of the Georgia Senate. All the notable men of Georgia are represented on the floor - the "Oglethorpe" and Cobbs, &c. and are introducing some very important bills and making some inquiries, among which is a resolution appointing a committee to hunt up "our Governor," he having left the town when very important business demanded his attention. Gen. Kilpatrick, who sat on the right of the President of Senate, was appointed said Committee amidst great applause. The Legislature was adjourned on our approach. The House is open to the soldiers, who are taking a great many things to remember Milledgeville by - books, maps, ink-stands, &c. &c. Gov. Brown recommended the burning of the city before he left, but the citizens objected. He then ordered every body to leave the place and take their effects. Three or four Penitentiary convicts, with their peculiar stripes, were running about the streets. One old fellow who had been confined 17 years for murder, was in for life. Another, rather intelligent fellow, said he had been in five years and his time lacked five days of being up. Was sent up for "borrowing a horse," he said. Gov. Brown called up all the convicts, made a speech to them, told them the Yankees were coming and that all who would enlist in the army and make good soldiers at the end of four months should be pardoned; and that if they did not enlist they would be sent to Savannah to work on the fortifications. About one hundred and thirty-nine, all who were able to bear arms, agreed to enlist and were furnished with arms, but still retained their own style of uniform. They were put on the cars and started for Macon. Kilpatrick intercepted the train at Gordon. The convicts, instead of fighting, threw down their arms and changed masters. So much for Penitentiary soldiers! Methodist Conference was to have met here in a few days – "indefinitely postponed," - on account of Yankee raid.

Nov. 24--Orders for moving at daylight - everything ready and waiting for "forward" until two o'clock when we get word we will not move till to-morrow morning.

Nov 25. Moving at daylight. Cold and frosty. Pass through the city of Milledgeville this morning - nothing large or very fine about it - not nearly equal to many other places in Georgia. The Oconee river is about one mile from the city, and strange to say the bridge over it is good. Many darkies are following our train –women and children of all sizes - one old, gray-headed woman. I told her I thought she had better not try going with us, for she would give out. She said "Lor, massa, I has to go to de field every day at home; guess 'taint no harder to follow you ones." Marched 15 miles - stopped before night. Several of our Brigade were captured yesterday on our outskirts, foraging - none of our Regiment.

We are capturing many good horses and mules - find them on almost every plantation. They are hidden off in a swamp or thicket. Niggers will inform where they are and we take them in.

Nov. 26. Orders for another daylight move. Get off at 7 o'clock. March one mile and halt one hour. Road obstructed by teams - very swampy. We get over the swamp and one mile ahead stop for dinner and to let all the trains pass. 11 o'clock, get dinner while trains are passing.

In rear of the trains come the darky refugees and such a picture as it would make! Perhaps some special artist will furnish it for Harper. Men, women and children, all ages, sizes and colors, that is from a very light shade to jet black - dressed in rags - women in buggies with old horses attached - an old woman leading an old gray horse with three little niggers astride, from 4 to 6 years old. Then another buggy with an ox in the shafts - a woman leading the ox - the buggy loaded with little children. Then an ox team, two yokes, drawing a large wagon loaded with women and children, driven by two nigger women. What won't even a "nigger" do for liberty?

Some skirmishing in front to day. Three or four of our men killed and fifteen wounded near Sandersville.

Nov. 27. On the march at daylight, expecting a little skirmish this morning, as 3,000 Rebels are reported in our front - Wheeler's cavalry. Have splendid roads - make 12 miles before dinner. Stop one hour - have fried chicken, sweet potatoes, coffee and crackers - pretty good dinner for the Confederacy. Chickens plenty at every house. Boys allowed to appropriate them for their own use, only having the trouble of catching them as we pass - not permitted to shoot. Pass Hutchinson's plantation, 3,000 acres, 300 niggers. About 500 bushels sweet potatoes here. Pass his farm, taking all we want, that is all we can carry and haul. Encamp for night on Wilkins’ plantation - another wealthy man - owns a mill, where we get a good supply of cornmeal. No fighting - Rebel cavalry very close in our front - are in six miles of Louisville.

Nov. 28. At six o'clock on the move toward Louisville. 9 o'clock, in one mile of town, where we are suddenly checked by coming to a stream, "Rocky Comfort," over which the bridge is burned. I can't see why it is called "Rocky" for there is no sign of a stone about; on the contrary every approach is a swamp. Bridge still burning - fire put out by our troops and foot-way soon made over the old trestles, but pontoons have to be put down for the train and horses. This detains us six hours. Whilst train was getting over we were encamped at Louisville, which was literally sacked by soldiers, contrary to orders, however. There were several stores, but most of the goods had been hidden. One or two houses were burned. Louisville very nice little town. Pass two miles beyond it. All Rebels passed through last night. Encamp before dark. Very warm, indicating rain.

Nov. 29. Orders issued last night for a daylight move, but we get word that Kilpatrick is fighting the Rebs 9 miles in advance and falling back. This changes orders to a "minute’s notice." At 7 o'clock our Brigade is ordered out to support the cavalry. Move one mile across Big Creek, where we meet our retiring cavalry. They have been tearing up the railroad between Augusta and Millen. Were attacked by all Wheeler's force and fell back, not, however, until they had destroyed six miles of track. The cavalry had advanced by another road, and were not aware that we were so close or they would not have fallen back. We get into position, throw up barricades and await the approach of the enemy. Cavalry all in, but the rebs are cautious enough not to come up. We lay here all day - hear from the Rebs a few miles in front, but don't see them. Sleep on arms ready for night attack.

Nov. 30. All quiet this morning, clear and bright. No more sign of Rebels than there was last night. No prospect of moving to-day. Orders to wash. Much needed - made a busy day.

Lieut. Williams, an old fellow-prisoner at Libby, called on me to-day. Escaped from Columbia 3d of this month. He brings the news that all officers of the 89th are well, except Capt. Glenn, who is in Hospital, but he thinks he is not sick, only slightly hurt in jumping off cars in attempt to escape. Most of them getting short of money, but there are a good many money packages there that have not been delivered. A large lot of boxes were delivered the day before he left. The 89th officers received two - he didn't recollect which of the officers got them. The prisoners are all quartered out of doors; partially supplied with tents - no stockades around them. Escapes are very frequent. He thinks about 400 have escaped since they left Charleston. One of our officers, Lieut. Fairfield, died about the first of this month. Capt. Barrett thinks he is not able to endure the hardships of an escape. Several of our officers are without shoes. All have once attempted an escape, but were unsuccessful.

Dec. 1. Clear and warm. Orders to be ready to move at a moment's notice. Rebs captured several wagons and 8 or 9 of our men yesterday. Were recaptured with about 50 Johnnies. At 9 o'clock troops begin moving. Our Brigade in motion at one o'clock. Cavalry fighting in front. Passed the place in afternoon. Several poor fellows being buried and several others wounded. Good many horses killed -- quite a skirmish. Rebels failing back. One wounded, taken prisoner, reports their force at eight thousand. We are moving very cautiously -- our wagon train has gone by another route, so we are troubled with but two or three wagons and a few ambulances. Stop at six o'clock for the night.

Dec. 2. Warm and pleasant. With out any doubt, "December is as pleasant as May." At daylight we are on the move -- expect a fight to-day. About 12 o'clock cavalry are skirmishing with enemy in front at crossing of Rocky Creek. Enemy retires, falling back before the infantry comes up. One Rebel captured. Our cavalry pursued the Rebs as far as Waynesboro, where they were entrenched. We are in four miles of them. Here we take a road at right-angles to the one we have been traveling, which will bring us into the railroad five miles South of Waynesboro. We don't care about fighting if the Rebs will keep out of our way. The Rebs evidently think we are going to Augusta. Stop at dark with a heavy picket out. Retire to rest to music by the frogs -- first time I ever heard frogs hallooing in December.

Dec. 3. Morning very foggy - warm and inclined to rain. Are making for the railroad between Millen and Augusta. Some Rebel cavalry on our flank. Three men of 23d Mo. and one from our Reg’t missing today -- probably captured, straggling -- Fredmore of our Reg’t, from Clermont county. At 4 o'clock we strike the railroad at Thomas' Station. Rebel pickets on the road are in sight. Our Reg’t is in advance with orders to move directly upon them. With two companies deployed as skirmishers we move up at quick time on each side of the railroad in thick woods. Our skirmishers get in fair shot of the Rebs, who "light out" on double quick, leaving a wounded captain, in a house near by. We follow them up about a mile and then fall back, constructing a barricade, and go to destroying railroad. The burning of the railroad ties made a great light, which drew the fire of a rebel battery that killed two men of the 92d Ill. No others hurt. Plenty of sweet potatoes near camp. Are living high. Raining. Get to bed about 11 o'clock. Picket firing occasionally.

[Top of Page]

The Highland News of 12 Jan 65, W H Glenn Journal

Dec. 4. Rained a little last night.--After some skirmishing at 10 o'clock, we spent a quiet night. Morning pleasant. Our wagon train moving out at 7 o'clock, with 89th as a guard. The moving of the train is a signal for skirmishers to commence firing. Some pretty lively times as we move out. We move round and come back on the R.R. 1 ½ miles in the rear of our Brigade, which holds its old position, to support the cavalry, which is advancing. There is a very large field, in front of the Rebel pickets, which are posted behind a rail barricade. Kilpatrick charged across this field with drawn sabre. Our brigade, except the 89th, witnessed the charge. I would have liked very much to have seen it - those who did, say it was a splendid sight. They charged right over the barricades and captured over 100 prisoners, killed and wounded sixty. Our loss in killed and wounded forty-one; five or six officers killed. Our Brigade followed as support, but were not in the fight. Cavalry drove the rebs beyond Waynesboro.

Passed a plantation to-day. Large house, everything in good repair -- plenty of niggers. One of the darkies said there was a man at the house who said he was going to shoot all the Yankee stragglers. The lady of the house was questioned as to the man who was concealed, but she vehemently protested against search, or the idea that such was the case. There was no man there. The Yankees, however, had to search, and finally did find him under the house, with 2 shot-guns, a revolver and several thousand dollars in money. He proved to be the woman's husband. The money was handed over to the woman and the man to the provost-guard.

We moved with train on Jacksonboro, the rest off the Brigade joining us on the way. Marched until 8 o'clock at night; made about 12 miles.

Dec. 5. Clear and pleasant. On the march promptly at sunrise. Pass through a pine forest; very poor country for 12 miles. Pass Jacksonboro -- four or five buildings beside the Court House make the town. Marched 20 miles to-day and encamped on the banks of Beaver Dam Creek. Here we meet our Division train, which left us at Louisville. The Rebs have destroyed the bridge, which will be repaired by morning. A good many houses are deserted, and are consequently pillaged by straggling soldiers. Orders are very strict against soldiers entering private houses, and generally where the families have stayed at home nothing has been molested. We passed one pace to-day where the soldiers had dug a trunk out of the garden filled with linen, spoons, knives, forks, &c. Every thing was scattered about -- each is helping himself.

Dec. 6. Up at 5 o'clock, seated by a comfortable fire. Just cool enough to enjoy it. As I writ, the Brigade Band is playing "Our Flag," a most beautiful piece of music, and in the stillness of the morning it is almost enchanting, but in a few minutes, aroused by the music, you hear the noise of a thousand hatchets preparing fire to cook the morning repast, which consists of sweet potatoes, pork, or chicken (we have young chickens this morning) and coffee. Orders for morning at sunrise. Several Rebel letters were captured to-day, from officers to their friends at home. A Dr. writes: "My Darling: Convert your slave property into real estate, or anything else you can. The time is very close when it will no longer be of any value. We have met and defeated Kilpatrick, drove him two days. I don't believe he can again reorganize his cavalry, so complete has been his defeat. I don't yet give up our cause, but if the Yankees can't succeed by fair means they will by foul." In less than a week after this was written, only yesterday, we find Kilpatrick at the head of his forces riding over the Rebs pell mell!

No running water to-day, but plenty of ponds or small lakes, which furnish a very good supply. Passed one large dwelling which was burning. One of our men came up to the house in advance of the troops. An old man and his boy came out and talked with him - thought him alone. The old man stepped into the house, took his shotgun and fired on him, wounding him. Others coming up, he and his boy took to the swamp and escaped. His house was fired. His wife and family are standing beside a handful of goods, saved from the fire, but as they have plenty of nigger huts I presume they will soon find shelter. Halt at dark.

Dec.7. -- Very damp this morning - rain last night. On the move at 7 o'clock. Are fifty-three miles from Savannah. Intercepted dispatches from Hardee to Wheeler, order him to hurry up and get between the Yankee army and Savannah, and to do all in his power to impede its progress -- to harrass it in front, flank and rear, and attack it on all opportunities. Mr. Wheeler's squad is very little in our way -- we don't stop for anything so small. Eight o'clock, rain, which continues until twelve. At two o'clock we stop for dinner. Passed over a very poor country to-day. Are in two miles of Savannah River. After dinner we march 4 miles and stop for night before sundown. Begin to get supper, when we receive the word that the rebs from Augusta are in force in our rear, where we stopped for dinner. They had an engagement with our cavalry and captured a few of them. All cooking immediately stopped and barricades were hastily constructed of pine trees and rails. Self-preservation is getting to be the first law with our soldiers. After making ready to give the enemy a warm reception if he should be so audacious as to come up, we finish getting supper and settle down for sleep. The approach of the enemy is through a swamp, with only a narrow road passable. Calvary can do very little but fall back as the Rebs advance. About half way between us and the Rebs is one plantation where Kilpatrick is quartered. He can hold them from reaching that plantation for some time. In our advance is another swamp, which the rebs have blockaded by falling trees. Our forces are busy clearing them out. Tattoo is played by all the bands and at the same time our wagon train moves quietly out through the other swamp. Most of Kilpatrick's troops are 15 miles in advance, only a rear guard behind us. We will follow sometime to night. Resting easy, with heavy picket out.

Dec. 8--At one o'clock we commence moving without any noise. Camp-fires still burning. Pass through the swamp, leaving a great number of trees almost cut down, for the rear guard to complete, to obstruct the Rebel passage. This will delay them at least half a day. We don't want to fight them here; if we did so, we must have some wounded men to take care of, which would impede our progress. We march until 5 o'clock, the cavalry overtakes us and we stop for breakfast. The Rebs will find a deserted camp in the morning. Take a short nap, get breakfast and are again on the road at ½ past seven o'clock. Are now within thirty-five miles of Savannah. March till 12 o'clock and stop for dinner. Rear guard report the Rebs shelled our camp before day. Whilst eating dinner the Rebel cavalry came in hailing distance of our rear, and for a little while there is pretty brisk cavalry firing. There are but two brigades of infantry here. We immediately get them into position. The 89th moves out to support a battery. We are now in two miles of Black Creek, over which a pontoon is being placed, the rebels having burned the bridge. We can hear heavy guns in the direction of Savannah. Considerable skirmishing with our pickets during the afternoon. At 11 o'clock at night our battery moves back towards the river, about a mile, and our regiment moves with it, leaving cavalry picket in our place. In less than ten minutes from the time we moved, the Rebs threw a shell just to the place we had left, fortunately hurting no one. Five shots were fired; no one hurt. We were quietly moving back to cross the bridge which was completed. Met Capt. Wicker to-day -- an old Chickamauga prisoner. Escaped from Columbia on the 22nd of last month. Our officers all well, excepting Captain Glenn. Lieut. Fairfield of our regiment dead.

Dec. 9 -- At one o'clock we are moving across the creek, a dark, deep, narrow stream -- moving over very quietly, expecting the Rebs to follow up soon as they discover our movement. At this creek we had a new feature in our movements. As I have before stated, a great many Negroes were following us - they had been permitted to do so up to this time. At this creek all who were not employed were stopped, where they couldn't possibly escape falling into the hands of the rebels. Comment is unnecessary. A good many, including women; swam the creek and thus escaped for the present. By daylight troops were all over and the bridge taken up. Halted --slept two hours, got breakfast and again moving at 12 o'clock. Rations very short; many have nothing but meat and coffee, but won't starve while this is plenty. On the banks of the Savannah, ten miles from Black Creek, we visit one of the oldest houses in the United States, the "Ebenezer Church," Lutheran, erected in 1769, almost a hundred years ago, and it is still in good repair. The bricks are very hard and the work well done. Inside savors of modern improvements a little, but many things are very old. The pulpit large and high. In this house, our Fathers of the Revolution worshiped. Here General Green had his hospital, using the church. A Fort nearby commands the Savannah river, said to have been built by "Marion's men." The house is unharmed, but visited by thousands of Yankees, who have a proper appreciation of such a place. The graveyard nearby gives some interesting items. One grave-stone shows that one man had been pastor of the church for 38 years. His son succeeding him fills another tomb, after 30 years’ ministry in the same place. "A veteran of the Southern Confederacy, killed at Chickamauga, lies beside his veteran father, who fought for his liberties in ‘76" -- thus comparing the present Rebellion to the great struggle for our Independence.

As our train passed this point, several shells were thrown at it from a rebel gun boat, passing up the river. No boats in sight to annoy us. Are moving directly south on Savannah road.

Dec. 10 – "Crackers and sow-belly" issued to-day -- sweet potatoes almost played out. To-day our brigade follows the train -- are entirely in the rear. Army concentrating and approaching the city. 20th corps is in our front. Country very swampy -- roads excellent -- made so by being thrown up and ditches on each side from two to three feet deep. To-day we strike the Charleston and Savannah R. R., which is already been torn up by the advance. Are moving slowly.

Dec. 11 -- Our brigade rear-guard of the army to-day. Are twelve miles from Savannah -- heavy firing in front and some picket skirmishing in our rear. Just passed a Rebel fort built across and commanding a long stretch of straight road. Here the Rebs had two guns and two companies of infantry. They killed one man for us, a Lieut. of battery, and several horses. Whilst our battery was engaging the rebel battery, a lot of our foragers had unconsciously got into the rear of the Rebel fort and were firing at hogs. The Rebs started a company out after them, but instead of retreating, as the Rebs expected, they deployed as skirmishers and advanced upon the Rebs. This frightened them, and supposing our forces had gotten in their rear, they abandoned their guns and fortifications and retreated towards the city. We move two miles to-day, stopping at the crossing of the railroad, the destruction of which is still going on. Our advance is reported in four miles of Savannah. Evening cool and windy.

Dec. 12 -- Morning cold -- some ice. Plenty of wood in our camp, cut and corded up for the use of the railroad, but as it is not in running order, nor likely to be soon, we are using it very liberally. Lay in camp all day. Visited a large rice mill now being worked by our forces on Savannah river -- runs by steam. The mill is in plain view of the city. Three gun-boats ran out this morning towards the mill, but we had a battery near the bank of the river, which opened on them, disabling one. The other two hastily retreated -- the disabled one with its crew fell into our hands. Every place is full of rice here -- rice fields and stacks as far as you can see.

Dec. 13--At 7 o'clock we are moving out, with view of getting into position round what we now consider the doomed city. The right of 20th corps rests on the Savannah river, 14th on left of 20th, 15th on our left, 17th moving to open communication with our fleet. Our rations of bread are very short, ¼ lb to the man per day. Everything else is plentiful. We will have plenty of rice in a day or two. Are using it now, as we can prepare it by hand.

Dec. 14--At 7 o'clock this morning four regiments of our brigade start out with train for forage. Have eight miles to go for rice -- don't expect to get anything else. Pass a new-made grave on the road. I rode out to see if it was one of our men, and was very much shocked to find that I stood beside the last resting-place of an old friend and Fraternal Brother, one who visited me the day before we left Atlanta, full of life and expectations for the future. W. H. Hambrick is no more. His body lies in about eight miles of Savannah, stricken down by the foes of his country. A rough head-board marks the place and tells the tale –"killed Dec. 9th." Another sad memorial of man's mortality, calculated to awaken the tenderest of human sympathies. Wyat H. Hambrick was from the neighborhood of Lynchburg; went out as Quartermaster in the 39th Ohio. When I last saw him he was A.Q.M. of one of the Divisions in the 17th Corps.

We got an abundant supply of rice in the stack and threshed out; also two barrels of molasses. The molasses was sunk in water four feet deep, but the niggers revealed its hiding- place.

On our return to camp we received the very gratifying news in an order from Gen. Sherman, that Fort McAllister was ours -- surrendered last evening, with its entire garrison; that communication was opened with the fleet and the question of supplies was no longer in doubt. We also got some very interesting news from a Savannah paper. "Whistling to keep its courage up." Says there are thirty thousand soldiers in Savannah; that the Yankee force does not exceed twenty thousand, and they are very much demoralized, being cut up by Wheeler, and are straggling out from their lines daily for the purpose of giving themselves up; that they are tired of the war, &c. &c. As to the cutting up part by Wheeler, he has been harrassing our corps a little, but we have passed entirely through the State of Georgia -- are in better health than when we started, and have not lost in the Corps, by sickness, straggling and the enemy, exceeding one hundred men. As to the number of men in the Yankee army I leave you to guess whether the rebel report is correct or not.

We have very pleasant camping grounds, although surrounded by swamps. The weather is delightful - seems more like spring than winter.

The Highland News of 12 Jan 65, W H Glenn Journal

Dec. 15--Have just received the cheering news that a mail will leave at 4 o'clock this evening.

W.H.G.

The Highland News of 12 Jan 65, W H Glenn Letter of 15 Dec 64

Six Miles off Savannah

December 15, 1864

Dear Kate: - Enclosed you will find thirty two pages – memorandum records of our journey through Georgia, commencing Nov. 12. I carried a book in my haversack and wrote whenever I had an opportunity along the road – when we stopped to rest at dinner – beside camp fires at night, and mornings before day. They were written without intentions of being given to the public, but after you read them, you may hand them to Bro. Brown or Mr. Boardman, who if they find anything that will interest the public can use them as they please. I have no time to correct them. Ever affectionately Yours,

Will.

Private A. Bartley to his Parents, from Camp Dennison

Gen. Hospil Camp Denison Ohio Dec the 22 / 64

Dear Father and Mother

I shal write you a few lines to let you know where I am and how I getting along. I am in hospil at Camp Denison Ohio in ward 16 doing the best I can. my health is not very good but I am up and around.

I have writin to Will and got no ancer yet. tell Sarah to write and ask will wether he got my letter or not.

well Dan I shud like to spend Christmas with you but I dont think I shal be abel to do so.

you may look for me home before long then father I expect to helpe you to work again.

ther is no news of aney importance to write, ondley [only] Thomas seams to be driving hood before him very nicely.

I shal close for this time. Give the children my love and best respects.

I remain as ever you son

Alfard Bartley

The Highland News, New Pension and Bounty Agency

Our old friend, Capt. J. H. Mullenix, late of the 89th Ohio, ex Sheriff, &c., who everybody knows is one of the cleverest men in the county, has just opened a new Pension and Bounty Agency, in the room over the Post office and immediately below our printing office, where he is prepared to obtain pensions and bounties for soldiers or their relatives, in the shortest time and on the most reasonable terms. All who entrust their business to him may rely upon having it promptly and correctly attended to. Give him a call.