The Civil War Day By Day Sesquicentennial Thread

[CagleMtnVol]

Did everyone see this great news out of Franklin?

Link:Mystery woman’s donation could spur on new Civil War project | The Tennessean | tennessean.com

FRANKLIN - Battle of Franklin preservationists don’t know the name or whereabouts of a woman who has pledged $250,000 to help build a Columbia Avenue Civil War park, but they’re grateful nonetheless.

The mystery woman’s donation, which was announced earlier this week, has created a domino effect of sorts that could eventually generate around $1 million to purchase a key piece of Columbia Avenue property now occupied by a Domino’s Pizza restaurant and a strip shopping center near the intersection of Cleburne Street and Columbia Avenue.

If everyone could donate a couple of bucks it would be nice. To get this eyesore off the Battlefield and returned to its 1864 appearance all of the houses around it has already been purchased and one has already been razed.

Here is a pic of the location I took last October.

 

[farmersdaughter]

December 16 1861

—This day, at Richmond, Va., Henry C. Burnett and Judge Monroe were sworn in as Senators from Kentucky, which State has just been admitted into the Confederacy.—Norfolk Day Book, November 17.

—David Maxey, who lived about five miles from Hardyville and ten miles from Green River Bridge, Ky., was killed in his own house by some of the Southern cavalry scouting in that neighborhood. They chased their victim to the second story of his house, and shot him twice, causing instant death. —Louisville Journal, December20.

—This morning eight men,three from the Second and five from the Fourth New Jersey regiments in Gen. Kearney’s brigade, General Franklin’s division, near Washington, D. C., left their respective companies, which were on picket duty at Edsall’s Hill, Va., and went to a house between Burke’s station and Annandale. While there, apparently in obedience to a signal by the occupant, a body of about a hundred and fifty rebel cavalry suddenly came upon them, and three who were in the house were taken prisoners. Their names were Dennis H. Williamson, who was wounded; Cornelius Lowe, and Hiram R. Parsons, all of the Second regiment. The other five escaped.

—The Fourth and Fifth regiments of the “Irish Brigade,” under command of Acting Brigadier-General Col. Thomas Francis Meagher, left New York to-day for the seat of war. —In the House of Representatives, at Washington, D. C., to-day, Mr. Vallandigham, of Ohio, offered a resolution commending the bold and patriotic conduct of Captain Wilkes, of the U. S. steamer San Jacinto, in seizing the rebel emissaries, Mason and Slidell, while on board a English steamer, and urging the President to approve and adopt the act, “in spite of any menace or demand of the British Government.” The resolution was referred to the Committee on Foreign Affairs.—(Doc. 228.)

—The Eleventh regiment of Connecticut volunteers, under the command of Colonel Kingsland, left Hartford for the seat of war.

— The Fortieth regiment of Ohio volunteers, commanded by Colonel J. Cranor, left Camp Chase, at Columbus, for Kentucky.


———-Late addition to Vol. 3:

December 16.—The rebel General Zollicoffer issued a proclamation to-day, at Beech Grove, Ky., to the people of Southeastern Kentucky, in which he assures them that his only object in entering their State is to drive out the Northern hordes who are attempting their subjugation. He tells them, the object of this unnatural war is to free the slaves, put arms in their hands, and give them social and political equality with the whites. He conjures them by all they hold dear not to join the Northern ranks, but to strike with the South for independence, and the preservation of property.—(Doc. 244.)

 

[farmersdaughter]

December 17 1861

—Great excitement was produced throughout the United States by the belligerent tone of the British press in reference to the seizure of Messrs. Mason and Slidell.

—A reconnoissance was made in, Virginia today by a squadron of the First New Jersey Cavalry, belonging to Gen. Heintzelrnan’s Division, under command of Capt. Shellmire. A portion of the squadron, commanded by Lieut. Janville, of Company L, of Jersey City, was ordered to proceed to the Bone Mills, to the left of Springfield station, on the Orange and Alexandria Railroad, about seven miles from the head-quarters of Gen. Heintzelman. The company there halted, when the lieutenant, with an orderly, proceeded two miles beyond, but on attempting to return they found themselves surrounded by rebel infantry. The lieutenant was shot in six places, and the horse of the orderly killed. The orderly made his escape. The company in reserve, hearing the firing, proceeded to render assistance, and on their approach the enemy fled, leaving the lieutenant behind, after robbing him of his small arms and nearly all his clothing.—Baltimore American, December 18.

—Four companies of Colonel Willich’s German Indiana regiment were attacked this afternoon on the south side of Green River, opposite Mumfordsville, Ky., by Colonel Terry’s regiment of Texan Rangers, two regiments of infantry, and six pieces of artillery. Colonel Willich, on being reinforced, drove the rebels back with a loss of thirty-three killed, including Terry, and fifty wounded. The National loss was eight privates and one lieutenant killed, and sixteen wounded.—(Doc. 229.)

—The bark Island City left Boston, Mass., for Fortress Monroe, Va., with two hundred and fifty of the rebels captured at Hatteras, who had been released from captivity at Fort Warren by the National Government.

—Last night a successful little movement occurred on the Cumberland River, near Paducah, which goes to show that our friends in that region are alert and active. It seems that twenty-eight mounted Federals left Smithland on, a scouting expedition, and during the evening they happened upon a “corn-shucking.” Thinking to have a good time, they picketed their horses, stacked their arms, and “pitched in.” One of our friends quietly slipped away and gave the alarm to Capt. Wilcox, who, with fourteen of his men,proceeded to the scene of merry-making, quietly took possession of the Hessians’ horses and arms, and then captured the whole party, except the captain. The latter endeavored to escape, when he was shot. The prisoners and spoils were carried to Hopkinsville. Capt. W. is now in a condition to treat for the release of a few of his men,including a lieutenant, who were captured a short time since.—Memphis Appeal, December 24.

—An expedition, under command of Gen. Pope, successfully cut off a rebel camp near Shawnee Mound, Missouri, and scattered them, twenty-two hundred strong, in every direction. One hundred and fifty prisoners were taken, with most of the rebels’ wagons, tents, baggage, horses, &c. A train of seventy wagons, well loaded for Price’s rebel army, was captured.— (Doc. 231.)

 

[farmersdaughter]

Battle of Rowlett's Station
December 17, 1861




The Battle of Rowlett's Station (also known as Battle of Woodsonville or of Green River) was a land battle in the AmericanCivilWar, fought in the whistle-stop station of Rowlett's in Hart County, Kentucky, on December 17, 1861. The outcomewas inconclusive, although the Union Army continued to hold its objective, a railroad bridge across the Green River.

Background and opposing forces

Brig. Gen. Don Carlos Buell had assumed command of the Army of the Ohio in November 1861, and in an attempt to consolidate Union hold over the surrounding area, organized a spate of troop movements into the field. Part of these movements included the march of the 2nd Division under Brig. Gen. Alexander McDowell McCook into Kentucky. Meanwhile, the Confederate Western Department, underGeneral Albert Sydney Johnston, had sentout elementsthat linedup alongthe Green River near Munfordville, Kentucky. McCook initiated a movement towardConfederate lines,andthe rebeldivisions,underBrig. Gen. Thomas C. Hindman, responded by blowing up the southern pier of the Lousville and Nashville Railroad bridge spanning the Green River, alongwithabout100feet oftrack, on December 10. Col. August Willich of the 32nd Indiana Infantry sent two of his companies across the river, and had the rest engaged in building a pontoon bridge.

The Union forces were mainly men from the 32nd Indiana Infantry Regiment. The particularly notable Confederates were the 8th Texas Cavalry, later better known as Terry's Texas Rangers.

The 32nd Indiana Infantry, also called the "First German", was made up of German immigrants anddescendants oflocalGermansettlers.Col.Willich hadassumed command at the request of Governor Oliver P. Morton. He was a disciplinarian, using Prussian bugle calls to direct his regiment on the parade ground and

battlefield.

The 8th Texas Cavalry was formed by Col. Benjamin Franklin Terry. He was requested by General Johnstontojointhe armythat he was then recruiting,promising him an independent command. The 8th Texas voted to join the general in Kentucky.



Battle

The bridge was completed on December 17, and four more companies crossed the river. In the meantime, Brig. Gen. Thomas C. Hindman directed a Confederate force of Texas Rangers, Arkansas infantry, and Mississippi artillery to destroy the bridge. Advancing into the woods, the Union forces discovered enemy skirmishers south of Woodsonville. The latter retreated until their cavalry joined them, and then attacked the Yankee companies. This was the first time in the Civil War that

cavalry faced infantry.

The Union companies fell into square formation. The Texas Rangers respondedbycharging the position wildly. In the ensuing battle, Colonel Terry of the Rangers was mortally wounded. On the Union side, Lt. Max Sachs of the 32nd Indiana and four of his men found themselves isolated by the Rangers, but repeatedly defied their demands to surrender, and they continued to fight until Sachs was struck down. The Rangers charged three times, but were finally forced to retreat. Colonel Willich, who was away at division headquarters at the time, soon returned and ordered a withdrawal to a stronger position. The Confederates, fearing imminent approach of McCook's forces, also withdrew.



Aftermath

Both sides claimed victory, attributing grievous lossestoeach other.While the outcomewas indecisive,the Unionforces remained incontrolofthe field of engagement, incidentally making recovery of casualties, and the accounting of those lost, wounded, or missing difficult. The forces continued to ensure the movement of Union men and supplies on the Louisville and Nashville Railroad.

The 32nd gained nationwide recognition for its stand against Confederate forces at Rowlett's Station, Ky. A detachment of 500 men under Lt. Col. Henry von Trebra fought off 1300 men of Terry's Texas Rangers and infantry under General Hindman. The 32nd formed the "hollow square", and drove the attackers back, losing 10 and 22 wounded, but killing thirty-three of the enemy, including Col. Terry and wounding fifty others.

Twelve men of the 32nd Indiana Regiment were originally buried on a hilltop near the battle site. In 1867, the state of Kentucky transferred the remains, as well as the limestone tablet bearing an inscription in the soldiers' honor in German, the 32nd Indiana Monument, to Cave Hill National Cemetery in Louisville, Kentucky. The

stone monument is the oldest, intact Civil War monument in the United States. [2]

The 8th Texas Cavalry Regiment changed its name to "Terry's Texas Rangers" in honor of the fallen Colonel.

The Battle of Rowlett's Station was soon overshadowed byUnionvictories at Mill Springs, Kentucky, and Fort Henry and Fort Donelson, Tennessee.

 

[farmersdaughter]

December 18 1861

—Three companies of the Cameron Dragoons, under Major S. E. Smith, commanded respectively by Capt. Wilson, Company F; Lieut. Stetson, Company H; and Lieut. Hess, Company C, went on a scout on the roads leading to Fairfax Court House and Hunter’s Mills, Va. When within a mile and a half of Fairfax, these three officers, with eight privates, as an advance guard, encountered an equal number of the rebel cavalry. Instantly they gave chase, but the rebels fled, seeking the cover of a wood near by. In the chase they passed through an orchard, when one of the rebels dismounted under an apple tree, and, with his carbine, a five-shooter, rested against a tree and fired three shots at Major Smith. Fortunately none of them took effect. After vainly endeavoring to draw the rebels from the wood, the party rejoined the main body under the direction of the major, and rode to Vienna, and thence to Hunter’s Mills. When near the latter place, Capt. Wilson and Lieut. Stetson discovered a rebel who was endeavoring to make his escape. They dashed off after him and soon returned into camp with him as a prisoner. When introduced to Gen. Hancock, the latter said: “Ah! Vollin, I am glad to see you—we have been looking for you for some time past.” He is said to be a spy, and a most notorious picket murderer.—Philadelphia Press, December 20.

—The United States Marshal Hiram Dunn arrested at St. Albans, Vt., Mrs. Meyer, the wife of a German Jew residing in New York, who had been acting as a messenger between the rebels who congregate in Montreal and the South. She was extremely violent for a few minutes, but found it best to put up with what could not be avoided, and submitted to an examination of her person and trunk by some ladies. The result was the discovery of a package of letters containing important treasonable correspondence.—Burlington Free Press.


-The English journals of this day contain comments upon the Message of President Lincoln to Congress. The document is generally attacked, and comparisons are drawn between it and the one lately emanating from Jeff. Davis—much to its disadvantage, the English newspapers contend. The point made of the President’s silence relative to the Trent affair is that it is indicative of immediate war—-the exceptions to this view being few. It appears to be difficult for the English press to accept any other solution of the Trent difficulty but that of war. The Observer, the Ministerial organ, says that England wishes for peace, but that she will gain by war, as it will enable her to rectify her American frontiers, open the ports of the South, and give a lesson to the United States. A rumor was current that the blocking up of Charleston harbor with stone was likely to lead to difficulty; that England’s warlike preparations would continue in view thereof, and that her demands did not end with the surrender of Mason and Slidell. The war preparations in England continue unabated. In France the view of the President’s Message was somewhat similar to that held in England. The general opinion appeared to be that war was inevitable. A circular has been, sent by the Emperor to the European Powers, declaring that the arrest of Mason and Slidell is contrary to principles regarded as essential to the security of neutral flags, and stating that the French Government deemed it necessary to submit this opinion to the Cabinet at Washington, in order to determine it to make concessions which the French Government deemed indispensable.

—A Detachment of Gen. Pope’s forces, under command of Col. J. C. Davis and Major Marshall, surprised a rebel camp at Millford, a little north of Warrensburgh, Mo., this afternoon, and, surrounding the enemy, forced them to surrender. Thirteen hundred prisoners, including three colonels, seventeen captains,one thousand stand of arms, one thousand horses, sixty-five wagons, and a large quantity of tents, baggage, and supplies were captured. The Nationals lost two killed and eight wounded.— (Doc. 231.)

—A Reconnoitring expedition, under command of Commander Drayton, U. S. N., left Port Royal, S. C., on the 16th inst., and the next day sailed up the North Edisto River, S. C. On Edisto Island fortifications were discovered, which, on landing, were found to be deserted. The expedition then sailed up a small creek to the town of Rockville, S. C., from which, at about a mile’s distance, was a rebel camp. This camp was unoccupied, and over forty tents were taken possession of, the most valuable part of the camp equipage having been removed by negroes. This morning the expedition ran down to the South Edisto, S. C., and, proceeding up the river, found on Edisto Island some deserted fortifications—the guns having been removed. The expedition then anchored in the North Edisto again.—(Doc. 232.)

—The Common Council of New Haven, Ct, this evening passed resolutions requesting the Governor of the State to cause the immediate construction of fortifications at New Haven harbor. The Governor had authority from the Legislature to establish a depot of arms and ammunition at New Haven.

 

[farmersdaughter]

December 19 1861

—Maj. Frank K. Bloom, of Macon, Ga., Aide to Gen. Henry R. Jackson, died to-night of pneumonia, at that place. He distinguished himself at Sewall’s Point and at Greenbrier, Va., and was possessed of all the generous qualities and greatness of soul which characterize the true patriot and soldier; and in the community in which he lived no man was more beloved or had more devoted friends. —Richmond Dispatch, Dec. 27.

—Captain Ricketts, First Artillery U. S. A., who was wounded and captured at the battle of Ball Ran, arrived at Washington, released on parole, accompanied by his wife.

—At ten o’clock this morning a rebel battery of three guns, flanked with about two hundred infantry, suddenly commenced shelling the encampment of Col. Geary’s Pennsylvania regiment, near Point of Rocks, Md. About twenty shell, well aimed, fell in the midst of the encampment —the first within a few feet of Lieut. Col. De Korponay, commanding. The six companies in camp were well deployed and entrenched. The Twenty-eighth regiment opened fire with two guns—the first shot disabling one of the rebel guns, and the second falling in the centre. The Union battery then advanced and poured a continuous fire into them, silencing all their guns and driving back a fourth one reinforcing. The rebels were driven from their position in full retreat. Fourteen of them were killed, and many wounded. The Nationals did act lose a man. The engagement lasted a half hour. After the rout of the rebels their victors turned their guns on some houses near an old furnace, on the Virginia side of the Potomac, where about a hundred and fifty rebels were secreted, and drove them out, killing and wounding many.

—The British ship Cheshire, of Liverpool, Eng., Capt. Craig, from Liverpool Oct. 10th, and Belfast 19th, via Savannah Bar 6th inst., arrived at New York in charge of a prize crew, and in command of Prizemaster Heath, of the U. S. steamer Augusta, Capt. Parrot. The Cheshire was discovered on the 6th inst. off Tybee Island, in six fathoms water, and, upon being boarded, it was found that she had cleared for Nassau, N. P., and that her cargo consisted of coffee, salt, and army blankets, which was deemed very suspicious. Upon her captain being questioned as to why, if he was bound to Nassau, he should be found in that locality, he replied that he had received instructions at Liverpool to speak the blockading squadron, “but for what purpose it was not made known.” Not deeming it safe to allow her to proceed, and as the replies were not satisfactory, she was towed to Charleston by the U. S. steamer Angusta, Capt. Parrot, a prize crew put on board, and then sent to New York.

—About nine o’clock to-night a rebel band, called “Moccasin Rangers,” entered and took possession of the town of Ripley, Jackson Co., Va. The inhabitants were defenceless, their arms having been locked up in the jail by a man who had been recruiting in the town for the United States army. The rangers, after robbing the town, decamped with their booty. —(Doc. 233.)

—C. J. Faulkner arrived at Richmond, Va., this evening. He was met at the depot by Governor Letcher, the mayor of the city, and a large concourse, with music, and escorted through a portion of the city, when the crowd increased to thousands. The ladies from the windows and crowded balconies saluted the procession with smiles and waving handkerchiefs, and cheers from the thronged sidewalks greeted the procession along the route to the City Hall. Mayor Mayo introduced Mr. Faulkner, when he made a speech, detailing his captivity, imprisonment, and position on parole, and referred to the position of England and the United States. He said if Lincoln recedes from the present status in the Mason and Slidell affair, the furious Abolition sentiment would overwhelm him, and if he does not they will be involved in a war with England. Mr. Faulkner said he was a fellow prisoner in Fort Warren with Messrs. Mason and Slidell, and said they never wavered, but felt confident that England would protect them and her flag. Governor Letcher made a few remarks, welcoming Mr. Faulkner to Virginia, and the immense crowd dispersed.—Fredericksburg ( Va.) Recorder, Dec. 28.

—To-night the office of The St. Croix Herald, St. Stephens, was broken into, and a large quantity of type, and other material, destroyed. The editor’s opposition to secession was the cause of the outrage.—N. Y. Tribune, Dec. 21.

—The Memphis Appeal of this day says that “property to the amount of two million five hundred thousand dollars has been already confiscated by the receivers, and this is only about one-half the amount of Northern property in our midst. Some reports have already been made of real estate, and many others are to be made.—The cost of taking the floating battery up the Mississippi was one hundred and twenty thousand dollars.—The Mississippi Legislature have a plan under consideration to advance to planters twenty-five dollars per bale on cotton.”

—The Eleventh and four companies of the Third Iowa regiments, which went up the Missouri River from Jefferson City on the 14th, returned to-day with property valued at five thousand dollars, and seven prisoners. Among the property taken were one hundred and seventy-two kegs of powder, which were intended for the rebel General Price. —N. Y. Commercial, Dec. 27.

—This night a party of the Connecticut Fifth regiment and some of the men of Lieut. Rickett’s battery crossed the Potomac in a skiff, and burnt the mill at Dam No. 5, which had been occupied by the rebels as a stronghold. They captured some guns, tools for breaking up the canal dam, blankets, etc.

—A Bill passed the Mississippi Legislature, providing that the banks should receive State Treasury notes in payment of debts, and that the notes of the banks should be receivable for all public dues except the Confederate war tax.

 

[farmersdaughter]

December 20 1861

—George W. Jones, late United States Minister to Bogota, was arrested at New York on a charge of treason, and sent to Fort Lafayette.—New York World, Dec. 21.

—In the House of Representatives at Washington, D. C., a resolution was adopted, thanking Colonel Mulligan and his command for their heroic defence of Lexington, Mo., and authorizing the Twenty-third regiment of Illinois, to inscribe on their colors the name “Lexington.”

—General Burnside arrived at Annapolis, Md., this evening to take command of the expedition destined for the North Carolina coast. —Seven hundred regulars of the force surrendered to the rebels in Texas by Major Lynde, passed through Rochester, N. Y., destined for Rome and Syracuse, whence they -went to Sackett’s Harbor and Oswego, to garrison the forts at these places.

—An engagement took place to-day near Drainesville, on the Leesburg turnpike, Va., between a foraging party under command of Brig.-Gen. E. O. C. Ord, (consisting of his brigade, a regiment of rifles, a battery of light artillery, and two squadrons of cavalry,) and four regiments of rebel infantry, with a six-gun battery, commanded by Gen. Stuart. The rebels were completely routed, lost many killed and taken prisoners. The National loss was seven killed and sixty wounded.—(Doc. 234.)

—The Ninety-first regiment of New York volunteers, under the command of Colonel Van Zandt, left Albany for the seat of war. —At Washington, Mr. Lovejoy offered in the House of Representatives a resolution directing the Committee on the Judiciary to report a bill for the confiscation of all rebel property whatever, and for the liberation of the slaves, who should be protected from recaptare by their masters. The resolution was laid aside by a majority of two.

—A Party of rebels from Gen. Price’s army destroyed about one hundred miles of the Missouri Railroad. Commencing eight miles south of Hudson, they burned the bridge, wood-piles, water-tanks, ties, tore up the rails for miles, bent them, and destroyed the telegraph line. This was continued to Warrenton, where the work of destruction ceased. —National Intelligencer, Dec. 24.

—The London Times of this date, in noting the departure of the transports Adriatic and Parana with troops for Canada, holds the following language: “As the Adriatic moved out of dock, the large shields on her paddle-boxes, emblazoned with the Start and Stripes, reminded everybody of the remarkable coincidence that a American-built steamer, and until within a few months ago the property of American owners, should be one of the first employed in the transport of British troops to the northern part of the American continent, to operate, probably, against the country in which she was built. “On the two vessels leaving the docks, the volunteer band took up a position on the extreme end of the jetty, and as the Adriatic slowly moved past, they played the appropriate airs ‘I Wish I Was in Dixie,’ and ‘The British Grenadiers,’ followed by ‘Cheer, Boys, Cheer,’ and ‘Should Auld Acquaintance be Forgot,’ as the Parana passed, in each case closing with ‘God Save the Queen,’ after which several parting rounds of enthusiastic cheers were exchanged between the multitude of spectators on shore and the gallant fellows on board the vessels.”

—Major McKee, with one hundred and three men of Col. Bishop’s command, encountered and repulsed four hundred rebels four miles south of Hudson, Mo., and killed ten, and took seventeen prisoners and thirty horses. Five of the National troops were slightly wounded. The rebels had attacked a stock train, captured all the stock, and held the railroad men as prisoners. They were in the act of unloading the stock, when the train, stock, and men were rescued.

—Yesterday morning the stone fleet of sixteen old whalers arrived off Charleston Harbor, S. C. In the afternoon, one of the lightest draught was sunk on the right of the main ship channel; during the night four more were sunk, and to-day the remainder, eleven in number, were made to complete the work. All the vessels but one, which was reserved for a pyrotechnic display, were dismantled, and deprived of masts, rigging and every thing but the hulls. The sinking of the fleet was under the direction of Captain Charles H. Davis, U. S. N., who, by his able and scientific management of the work, effectually closed the main ship channel of Charleston Harbor.—(Doc. 235.)

—The brave little steamer Theodora, which has won for her name so prominent a place in the history of the Confederate States, is still “bobbing around” on the high seas. A despatch from Thos. J. Lockwood announces that he has arrived safe, ” as usual,” in the flourishing Confederate seaport of _____, after paying a flying visit to several foreign lands, and running half a dozen times under the very noses of the Yankee cruisers.—Charleston Mercury, Dec. 21. —This afternoon, Richard Gatewood, a private soldier of the First Kentucky regiment, was executed at Charleston, Va., for the combined crimes of desertion, mutinous conduct, and a murderous assault upon a sentinel while on duty.— Cincinnati Gazette, Jan. 1, 1862.

 

[farmersdaughter]

Battle of Dranesville
December 20 1861

The Battle of Dranesville was a small battle during the American Civil War that took place between Confederate forces under General J.E.B. Stuart and Union forces under General Edward O.C. Ord on December 20, 1861, in Fairfax County, Virginia, as part of Maj. Gen. George B. McClellan's operationsin northern Virginia. The two forces on similar winter-time patrols encountered and engaged one another in the crossroads village of Dranesville. The battle resulted in a Union victory.

Background

Following the Battle of Ball's Bluff on October 21, major offensive action was halted in the eastern theater, as both armies went into winter quarters. Small detachments were still occasionally sent out to probe the enemy's position and to obtain forage. Such was the case early on the morning of December 20 when General Stuart, with a mixed brigade of infantry comprising the regiments of the 6th South Carolina, 1st Kentucky, 10th Alabama, and 11th Virginia, 150 of his cavalry troopers and Allen S. Cutts's 4 gun Georgia battery, set out north from their position near Centreville to escort the army's wagons trains on a foraging expedition into Loudoun County. Meanwhile, General Ord , leading the 10,000 strong 3rd Brigade of Pennsylvania Reserves set out west from Langley to clear the south bank of the Potomac River of Confederate pickets and partisans in Fairfax and Loudoun. At Colvin Run Mill, Ord left half his force to protect his rear and prevent his force from being cut off from their base at Langley.



The battle

At about noon, Ord arrived at the intersection of the Georgetown Pike and Leesburg Pike in the village of Dranesville, where he encountered Stuart's advance cavalry pickets, which were quickly driven off by the Union force. Ord then began to lead his command west, down the Leesburg Pike. At around 1 p.m. Stuart, with the main body of his force approached Dranesville from the south, whereupon he encountered the rear of the Union detachment.

Ord halted his infantry and wheeled it around to meet the Confederate threat, forming a line on the north side of the Leesburg Pike. He then deployed his artillery on an eminence near the intersection. Stuart deployed his infantry on the south side of the pike and his artillery 300 yards south of the federal position. While the Confederate infantry was deploying, the 6th South Carolina mistook the 1st Kentucky for Union troops and opened fire, which was quickly returned by the Kentuckians.

Hearing the sound of gunfire, the 9th Pennsylvania charged across the turnpike but were quickly driven back. The artillery then began to duel, but owing to the strength of the Union position, the Confederate guns were quickly knocked out. Ord deployed his infantry in a skirmish line and sent it across the Pike at Stuart and the two sides squared off for nearly 2 hours. At 3 p.m., with his wagons safely away and secure from capture, Stuart ordered a withdrawal. Ord pursued for a half mile, ensuring his line of retreat was safe, before breaking off the attack and returning to Langley.

The following day Stuart returned with reinforcements, but found no Federals to engage.



Results

Though the battle was small, of no tactical importance and resulted in only light casualties, it marked the first time in the east that a Union force had bested their Confederate enemy, inflicting 230 casualties while suffering only 71, and were able to drive them from the field. Of the Confederate casualties, nearly half resulted from the friendly fire between the 6th South Carolina and 1st Kentucky

 

[farmersdaughter]

December 21 1861

—The Kentucky House of Representatives, by a vote of sixty-nine to eleven, concurred in the Senate’s amendment to the bill reported by the House Committee on Federal Relations, thanking the President for his modifications of General Fremont’s proclamation and Secretary Cameron’s report, and requesting the President to dismiss Secretary Cameron from the Cabinet. At Baltimore, Md., this morning, the deputy provost-marshal overhauled the steamer George Weems, as she was about leaving for the Patuxent River landings, and arrested a man named W. T. Wilson, an Englishman, who had secreted in his clothing, and in a bladder in his hat, a quantity of morphine and quinine. He also arrested a man named Hanna, of Chester County, Pa., formerly of California. Both were supposed to be rebel agents.

—This morning a little before daylight, the pickets at Stump Neck, on the Potomac River, saw a boat with a man in it approaching from the Virginia shore. They concealed themselves till the man landed, when they arrested him. He brought with him a number of letters, which were taken charge of and conveyed, with the prisoner, to General Hooker’s head-quarters. Another man was waiting with a horse, upon which to convey the mail-bag. He was also arrested and the horse seized. Early this morning, as the U. S. gunboat Resolute was on her way down the Potomac, from Washington, some pickets of rebel cavalry were seen at Holland Point, near the White House. Acting Master Tole, in command, fired a few shells among them, scattering the rebels in all directions. A number of them ran out of a house, near which their horses were picketed, and rode off as fast as they could. A boat’s crew was then sent on shore in charge of acting master’s mate J. L. Plunkett. On their way they saw some women and children busily leaving the houses. On entering, the building was found to be deserted, but there were traces of recent occupation by cavalry.—N. Y. Herald, December 23.

—Charles Anderson, brother of General Robert Anderson, addressed a large audience at Cooper Institute, New York, this evening. The cause of the rebellion he attributed to the check received by men in their greedy pursuit of political power.

—The Southern papers of this date are filled with articles expressive of delight at the prospect of a war between England and the United States, in reference to the seizure of Messrs. Mason and Slidell. ———-Late addition to Vol. 3:

December 21.—In the Confederate Congress, an act was passed, entitling Kentucky to have twelve members in the House of Representatives. A series of resolutions were also adopted, the third of which is as follows: Resolved, That no peace ought to be concluded with the United States, which does not insure to Maryland an opportunity of forming a part of this Confederacy.

 

[farmersdaughter]

December 22 1861

—The rebel commissary and ordnance stores at Nashville, Tenn., were destroyed by fire to-night. The loss was estimated at nearly a million dollars.

—Part of the prisoners captured by General Pope at Black Water, passed through Otterville, Mo. Among them were Colonel Magoffin, brother of Governor Magoffin, of Kentucky; Colonel Robinson, who had command of the rebel force at Black Water, and who was in the battles of Dug Springs, Wilson’s Creek and Lexington; Colonel Alexander, who said he fought in all the battles; Lieutenant-Colonel Robinson, Major Harris, Dr. Smith, one of the wealthiest men and largest slaveholders in Missouri, who had done every thing in his power to aid and comfort the rebels; McKean, sheriff of Benton County, who, it is said, by misrepresentations, gained admittance into one of the Federal camps, made a diagram of it and left that night—(when the rebels made an attack and killed sixteen or seventeen of our men Dr. Moore, of Syracuse, and many others, who had gained notoriety by their zeal and labors in the secession army.—N. Y. Commercial, December 24.

—At Richmond, Va., the citizen volunteers, under Captain T. M. Ladd, who offered to escort the one hundred and seventy-five Yankee prisoners who were to be sent South, assembled on the Capitol square, near the Bell House, and after being formed into line and manœuvred for some time, were conducted to the Arsenal, where they were furnished with muskets, balls, and powder for the occasion that called them into being.—Richmond Dispatch, December 23.

—A slight skirmish occurred this morning at Newmarket Bridge, near Newport News, Va. About eight o’clock, four companies were sent out with orders to gather such fuel as they could easily remove. A march of twenty minutes soon discovered the presence of the rebels, who consisted of cavalry, supported by infantry. Seeing no chance of successfully competing with such a force, they retreated in good order toward their works; but, being reinforced by Col. Max Weber’s New York infantry, again advanced, when a sharp engagement took place. The rebel infantry discharged several volleys at the Federals, but at such distance that only five of Col. Weber’s command were wounded. At two o’clock in the afternoon both parties retired.—(Doc. 237.)

—An account of various hostile operations between the rebel and National forces on opposite banks of the Potomac, near Williamsport, Md., was published to-day.—(Doc. 236.)

—At St. Louis, Mo., Gen. Halleck issued an order, in which he says that any one caught in the act of burning bridges and destroying railroads and telegraphs, will be immediately shot, and that any one accused of the crime will be tried by a military commission, and if found guilty, suffer death. Where injuries are done to railroads and telegraph lines, the commanding officer nearest the post will immediately impress into service, for repairing damages, the slaves of all secessionists in the vicinity, and if necessary, the secessionists themselves and their property. Any pretended Union men having information of the intended attempts to destroy such roads and lines, or other guilty parties who do not communicate such intention to the proper authorities and give aid and assistance in punishing, will be regarded as particeps criminis and tried accordingly. Hereafter towns and counties in which such destruction of property takes place will be made to pay the expenses of all repairs, unless it shall be shown that the people of such towns and counties could not have prevented it on account of the superior force of the enemy.

 

[farmersdaughter]

December 23 1861

—The prize schooner Charity, captured off Hatteras Inlet, N. C., on the 17th of December, by the steamer Stars and Stripes, was wrecked off Hempstead, L. I. She had been placed in charge of Captain George Ashbury, to be taken to the port of New York.—N. Y. Times, December 29.

—A fight occurred at Joseph Coerson’s house, in Perry County, Ky., between one hundred and eighteen rebels and forty-seven Union men. The rebels were completely routed, with sixteen wounded, and the Union loss nothing.— N. Y. Tribune, December 28.

—Gen. Rosecrans issued an address to the army of Western Virginia, in which, after alluding to their triumphs during the campaign, and their gallantry and devotion to the National cause, he urged them to perfect themselves in all that pertains to drill, instruction, and discipline, and promised to provide for them everything necessary to prepare them for their coming work. He further stated that he should organize boards of examiners, who would rid the service of the disgrace and the soldiers of the incubus of incompetent and worthless officers, who hold the positions and receive the pay without having the will or capacity to perform the duties of their positions.

 

[farmersdaughter]

December 24 1861

—Gen. Pope’s cavalry, sent to Lexington, Mo., captured two rebel captains,one lieutenant, and four men, with horses, &c. They destroyed the foundry and ferry boats at Lexington.—General Halleck’s Despatch.

—A card from J. J. McKeever, President of an organization known as the “Southwest Co.,” appeared in the Memphis Appeal, announcing that the third special messenger would leave Memphis on the 1st of January, “taking mail matter for all parts of the world.”

—The U. S. War Department issued orders stopping the enlistment of cavalry soldiers. The Government had all the cavalry that were necessary.

—A bill to increase the duties on tea, coffee, sugar, and molasses passed the U. S. Congress. The duties were raised on tea to twenty cents per pound, on coffee to five cents, on sugars to two and a half, three, five, and eight cents, and on molasses to six cents. It was estimated that the increase would add to the revenue six millions of dollars a year.

—Bluffton, S. C., was occupied by the Union forces under General Stevens. The town was found deserted.—N. Y. Herald, Dec. 30.

—The Thirty-fifth regiment of Indiana volunteers, under the command of Colonel John C. Walker, left Jeffersonville, for active service in Kentucky.—Indianapolis Journal, Dee. 26.

 

[farmersdaughter]

December 25 1861

—Two spans of a bridge across the Charleston River, Mo., on the Hannibal and St. Joseph’s Railroad, were burned by the rebels this night.—Cincinnati Enquirer, December 27.

—This day about noon, the stout gunboat Florida, C. S. N., concluded to celebrate Christmas eve by a small set-to with the insolent Lincoln cruiser New London, which was lying off the mouth of the harbor of Mobile, Ala. The Florida ran down to the westward of Sand Island, and challenged the New London to come on, which she did, and for an hour or two a lively cannonade at long taw furnished an excitingly interesting exhibition for the entertainment of the great audience which viewed it—the four thousand men who garrison Forts Morgan and Gaines, as well as the crews of the blockading vessels, being the spectators. The Florida could not come to close quarters with the enemy by reason of the shoal water of a bar intervening, and could she have got out it is likely she would have had more than she could attend to with the several blockaders that were lying off in deep water. The engagement was lengthy, and many shots were fired on both sides, and ended by the New London backing out, as usual. The Florida was not touched, but it is thought that three of her pills took effect on the enemy. All but these three were seen to strike the water, but the thousands of eyes which watched could not tell where these three went to if they were not stopped by the New London. She was evidently hit hard, for after backing out of the fight she signalled the fleet, and one of them ran down and lay alongside of her for several hours, rendering assistance, it is supposed. The spectators say that the Florida’s long and terrible guns were admirably served, the practice being excellent, placing the shot and shell all around the mark, so close, in many instances, as to apparently dash the water upon the Lincolnite’s decks. The engagement, is said to have been a most animating and exciting scene as witnessed from the forts.—Mobile Evening News, December 26.

—The Lighthouse, situated on Morris’ Island, Charleston, S. C., harbor, and which for many years has guided the mariner to the harbor, was blown up to-night by order of the military authorities. Only a heap of ruins marks the spot where it stood. —Charleston Courier, December 28.

 

[farmersdaughter]

December 26 1861

—A skirmish took place near Camp Boyle, Columbia, Ky., this evening. Last night the National pickets having reported a strong force of rebels in the neighborhood, Colonel Haggard, commanding at the camp, ordered out a party of men,with Major Ousley at their head, to go in pursuit. Arriving in the vicinity this morning, they saw nothing of the enemy. They waited, however, for some time, and being hungry, ordered supper at the hotel, and supper being ready they all sat down and were enjoying it finely, when a sentinel rushed in and gave an alarm. The Nationals all broke for their horses, but before a horse was mounted, a shot from one of Capt. Palmer’s men brought the rebel color-bearer to the ground. The poor fellow was a Scotchman—too brave a man to be enlisted in such a cause. The troops rushed up to him and wanted him to surrender, but he would not, and hurraing for Jeff. Davis, drew his revolver and was about to shoot, when one of the Nationals gave him a quietus that brought him to terms. The rebels were about six hundred strong, but retreated after receiving some two or three rounds. Colonel Haggard’s small party then also left the field, having killed five of the enemy and wounded some others.—Louisville Journal, December 30.

—Major Gower, commanding a squadron of the First Iowa Cavalry, arrived at Jefferson City, Mo., with one captain, thirteen men,and ten wagon loads of stores, captured from Gen. Price’s army.—Gen. Halleck’s Despatch.

—Philip St. George Cocke, Brigadier-General in the Confederate army, accidentally or designedly killed himself at his residence in Powhatan County, Va. He was a wealthy, public-spirited gentleman, and a well-behaved and accomplished officer. Brigadier-General Cocke was a graduate of the United States Military Academy at West Point. He entered that institute as a cadet in 1828, graduated July, 1832, was immediately appointed to a brevet second lieutenancy in the Second artillery; promoted to adjutant of his regiment in 1833. He resigned in 1834. He was a native of Virginia, and at the breaking out of the present rebellion was commissioned a general in the Confederate army. —Norfolk Day Book, December 28.

—Andrew Kessler, Jr., a member of the late Maryland House of Delegates, was released from Fort Warren on taking the oath of allegiance, and returned to his home in Frederick, Md.

—General Banks issued a stringent order in regard to the seizure of forage without the owner’s consent, and another prohibiting the sale of liquor to soldiers. —Philadelphia Press, December 28.

—In the Senate, at Washington, Mr. Hale, of Now Hampshire, offered a resolution calling upon the President to transmit to the Senate copies of all despatches which had passed between the Government and that of Great Britain relative to the seizure of Mason and Slidell. Mr. Sumner objected to its consideration. Mr. Hale advocated its passage in a speech of considerable length, in which he opposed the restitution of the rebel envoys, and advocated in preference a war with Great Britain. The resolution was laid over under the rule.

—Mr. Garrett Davis, Senator from Kentucky, gave notice of his intention to introduce a bill confiscating every species of property of all persons who have had any connection with the rebellion, either in a civil, military, or naval capacity.

—Mr. Harlan, of Iowa, introduced a bill to establish a Provisional Government in all the seceded States.

—A Fire broke out in the Government stables, near the Observatory, in Washington, D. C., and from one hundred and fifty to two hundred horses out of six hundred which it contained, were burnt to death. The fire was supposed to have resulted from carelessness.

—The Sixth New Hampshire regiment, numbering one thousand and twenty-three men,Col. Nelson Converse, passed through New York for Washington. They had been encamped at Keene, Cheshire County, since November 15. Before they left, Gov. Berry presented them with a stand of colors

—The First battalion of the First Massachusetts Cavalry, numbering four hundred and fifty men,arrived at New York, and left for Annapolis in the afternoon, to join Gen. Burnside’s expedition.

—The steamer Arago arrived at New York from Europe, bringing as a passenger Lieut.-Gen. Winfield Scott, and intelligence that the party in Europe advocating a war with the United States, was “greatly encouraged in their cry for blood.”—N. Y. Herald, December 27.

—First Lieutenant J. C. Ives, Topographical Engineers, U. S. A., having tendered his resignation under circumstances showing him to be disloyal to the U. S. Government, was, by direction of the President, dismissed the service from this date.—General Orders, No. 110.

—The rebel general, John B. Floyd, issued an address to the troops under his command, dated at the “camp, near Dublin depot,” Western Virginia, in which he expressed his admiration of the manner in which they had conducted a campaign of five months, and urged them to respond to the distinguished compliment paid the “army of the Kanawha,” by the Confederate Government, in assigning them to the defence of Kentucky.—(Doc. 238.)

 

[farmersdaughter]

Battle of Chustenahlah
Dwcember 26 1861



The Battle of Chustenahlah was fought in Osage County,Oklahoma, (then Indian Territory) on December 26, 1861, during the American Civil War. A band of 9,000 pro-Union Native Americans was forced to flee to Kansas in bitter cold and snow inwhat became known as the Trail of Blood on the Ice.

Confederate troops had undertaken a campaign to subdue the Native American Union sympathizers in Indian Territory and consolidate control. They had attacked Chief Opothleyahola's band of Creeks and Seminoles (led by Chief Halek Tustenuggee) earlier at Round Mountain and Chusto-Talasah. Now, theywantedtofinishthem off by assaulting them in their camp at Chustenahlah (corruption of the Cherokee word "U-s-ta-la-na", meaning a shoal or sandbar in a stream or creek) in a well-protectedcove onBird

Creek. [1] Colonel James M. McIntosh and Col. Douglas H. Cooper, commanding the Indian Department, planned a combined attack with each of their columns moving on the campfrom differentdirections.McIntoshleft Fort Gibson on December 22, with 1,380 men.

On December 25, he was informed that Cooper’s force could not join him for a while, but he decided to attack the next day, despite being outnumbered and severe cold weather conditions. McIntoshassaultedthe campat noon. The 1,700pro-Union defenders were secluded in the underbrush along the slope of a rugged hill. McIntosh devised a plan to converge on the crest, with the South Kansas-Texas Cavalry (also known as the 3rd Texas) ordered to charge directly up the steep bluff on foot. The 11th Texas advanced to their left using a defile for concealment, while the 6th Texas circled to the right. As the Confederate attack progressed, the Native Americans began to fall back, taking cover for a while and then moving back. The retreat became a rout as the Federals reached their camp. The Indians attempted to make a stand there but were forced away again by 4:00 p.m. The survivors fled; many went all the way to Kansas where they found loyal Unionists. Three hundredCherokees underCol. Stand Watie intercepted the fleeing Creeks and Seminoles, killing 15 of them. Chief Opothleyahola’s band mountednofurtherresistance,andnearly2,000ofthem died onor

shortly after the trek to Fort Row, Kansas, mostly due to exposure and disease. [2]

The victorious Confederates captured 160 women and children, 20 blacks, 30 wagons, 70 yoke of oxen, about 500 Indian horses, several hundred head of cattle, 100 sheep, and large quantities of supplies. Casualties were 9 killed and 40 wounded for the Confederates. Col. McIntosh in his official report estimated the Indians' loss as 250.



McIntosh's Brigade (Confederate) - Col. James McQueen McIntosh

5 Companies, South Kansas-Texas Cavalry - Lt. Col. Walter P. Lane 6th Texas Cavalry Regiment - Lt. Col. JohnS. Griffith 7 Companies, 11th Texas Cavalry - Col. W. C. Young 4 Companies, 2nd Arkansas Mounted Rifles - Capt. William Gipson Bennett’s Texas Company - Captain Bennett

 

[farmersdaughter]

December 27 1861

—Intelligence was received at Washington that Col. Canby, in command of the military department of New Mexico, had retaken Forts Craig and Stanton, on the Mesilla birder, driving the Texans away, and was on the way to Fort Fillmore to dispossess the rebels at that post, which was traitorously surrendered by Colonel Lynde to an inferior force of Texans. Thence he intended marching into Arizona to drive off the rebels.

—The Legislature of New Mexico met on the 2d of December. Governor Connelly, in his message, recommended active measures with reference to the Indians who had been tampered with by Albert Pike, suggesting that they be located on the reservations, and encouraged in agricultural pursuits. The Indians, for the greater part,were peaceable and friendly to the United States Government.—Philadelphia Press, Dec. 28.

—The burning of buildings near New Market Bridge, Va., by order of Brigadier-General Mansfield, called forth the following order from General Wool: Headquarters Department Virginia Fort Monroe, Dec. 26, 1861 General Order No. 50.

—The Major-General Commanding the Department regrets to learn that some of our troops recently crossed New Market Bridge and fired some buildings in retaliation for similar acts of vandalism committed by the rebels on the side nearest our encampments. Two wrongs do not make one right, and such conduct is in violation of existing orders, and for which, in this case, there does sot exist the slightest excuse. If the insurgents wish to increase the notoriety which they possess for burning villages and frame houses, and destroying property belonging to their own people, as well as others, it affords an opportunity for our opposite policy to stand out in bold relief, and should not be neglected. The Major-General Commanding would again express his decided disapprobation of such proceedings on the part of our troops. By command of Major-General Wool. W. D. Whipple, A. A.-G.--

This order was sent to Camp Butler, to be read to all the troops under the command of General Mansfield.

—The rebel privateer Isabel succeeded, after several fruitless attempts, in running the blockade off Charleston, S. C., last night. There were eleven war vessels off the harbor at the time. The gunboat Pocahontas was despatched in pursuit, but without success, the Isabel being far the faster of the two.—N. Y. Herald, Jan. 4, 1862.

—This evening the bridges over the Fabius and North Fabius rivers, Mo., on the Palmyra Railroad, were set on fire by the rebels and destroyed.

—Arthur Rankin, member of the Canadian Parliament, and Colonel of the Union Lancers, deeming further connection with the United States service improper, in view of the complications with England, resigned his commission and returned to Canada.—N. Y. Times, Dec. 29.

—In accordance with orders received from Gen. Halleck, the Provost Marshal-General, at St. Louis, directed that sixteen slaves, confined in St. Louis County jail, and advertised for sale under State statute, be released from prison and placed under control of the Chief Quartermaster of the Department for labor till further orders, said slaves being the property of rebels, and having been used for insurrectionary purposes. The legal condition of the negroes is in nowise changed. They are only set free from confinement, imprisonment, and sale, on the presumption that they are the slaves of rebel masters. General Halleck wishes it understood that this order will not debar any one from enforcing his legal rights to the services of these negroes. Such rights, if any exist, can be enforced through the loyal civil tribunals of the State, whose mandates will always be duly respected. The military authorities of the Department, as military officers, cannot decide upon the rights of property or claims to service except so far as they may be authorized by the laws of war or acts of Congress. When not so authorized they will avoid all interference with such questions. —Philadelphia, Press, Dec. 30.

—Capt. Fry, of Company B, Twentieth regiment, started out from Warsaw, Ky., with a file of men for Eagle Creek, about thirteen miles from the village, having been ordered to arrest Capt. Washington R. Sanders, and break up a company of secessionists, who rendezvoused at his house. When they reached the house of Mr. Sanders he was not to be found. Upon searching the premises a six-pound cannon was found buried, together with six kegs of gunpowder, a quantity of rifles, bowie-knives, pistols, swords, and percussion caps. The arms, and other materials, were taken to Warsaw.—Louisville Journal.

—Alfred Ely, United States Representative from the Rochester district of New York, who was captured by a Smith Carolina company of infantry at the battle of Bull Run, arrived at Washington, D. C., having been released in exchange for C. J. Faulkner, former U. S. Minister to France.—(Doc. 239.)

—A Correspondent of the Richmond Examiner, in a letter dated this day, gives the following account of affairs at the rebel camp in the vicinity of Manassas, Va.: To-day our whole army is engaged in building log-houses for winter quarters, or in moving to sites already selected. Several brigades will remain where they now are, near the fortifications in Centreville, and the remainder will fall back a mile or two upon Bull Run. General Kirby Smith’s brigade is at Camp Wigfall, to the right of the Orange and Alexandria road, near the Run. Near by the whole of Van Dorn’s division are making themselves comfortable in their little cottages, which rise rapidly day by day under the diligent hands of the soldiers. A few brigades are scattered down toward the Occoquan, where wood and water are plenty, the furthest being by Davis’s Ford. The artillery, with the exception of Walton’s battalion, has already been located between Cub Run and Stone Bridge. The cavalry has fallen back a little, and they are now building stables and houses near Centreville. General Stuart will remain in the advance. It is probable that General Johnston will occupy the Lewis House, on the battle field, and General Beauregard Wier’s, his old head-quarters. Longstreet’s division will occupy the advanced position, and will remain where it is at present. The artillerists, detailed to man the guns in the batteries, will also remain by the fortifications. In case of an attack by the Yankees, it will take about two hours to get the main strength of the army across Bull Run. Information of an approach would be given at least two hours before an enemy could come up, and in that time we could be well prepared to resist any force that can be brought up. That is about the situation of affairs for the winter, and it remains to be seen whether our men are to have an opportunity of a brush with the Yankees, or whether they will be allowed to enjoy their new houses in quietness. When I say all are ready for an attack, I express but feebly the feeling which pervades the army. Yesterday a Marylander came through our lines, having left Washington the day previous. He brought some noticeable information as to the disposition of the Yankee troops.

 

[farmersdaughter]

December 28 1861

—The brig Empire, Crosby, sailed to-day from Fortress Monroe, for Port Royal, to open trade. She took out a cargo of fresh provisions, &c.; also a balloon and chemicals, and an apparatus for inflating it, consigned to General Sherman. The balloon is under the direction of Professor Starkweather, and the Æronautic Department.

—The steam frigate Brooklyn arrived at Fortress Monroe, from the Philadelphia Navy Yard, this afternoon.—N. Y. Herald, Dec. 31.

—Writs of attachment were filed in the Louisville (Ky.) Chancery Court, under the law subjecting to such process the property of rebels who remain in the so-called Southern Confederacy thirty days after its passage, against Gen. Buckner, ex-Minister Preston, and Edward Crutchfield. Their property amounted to twenty thousand dollars each. Writs were also issued against several other parties for smaller amounts.—Philadelphia Press, Dec. 31.

—General Prentiss, with four hundred and fifty troops, encountered and dispersed a body of rebels nine hundred strong, under Colonel Dorsey, at Mount Zion, Boone County, Mo., killing and wounding one hundred and fifty of them, and capturing thirty-five prisoners, ninety-five horses, and one hundred and five guns. The National loss was three killed and eleven wounded.—(Doc. 240.)

—Last night the Thirty-fifth Ohio, Colonel Vandeveer, made a silent, cautious march to the Salt Works on Fishing Creek, Ky, with the full expectation of capturing a regiment of secesh cavalry, who were guarding the works while some of their men were manufacturing salt. But when they arrived there the workmen and cavalry had gone to their camp. So they made a charge on the Salt Works, breaking the kettles, disabling the pumps, and spreading havoc among the utensils generally; after which they marched back to camp, near Somerset.— Louisville Journal, Jan. 4,1862.

—Early this morning two squadrons of Col. Jackson’s regiment, under command of Major Murray, left the camp near Calhoun, on a scouting expedition across Green River, Ky. When they arrived at South Carrollton, the squadrons separated, and the first returned toward Calhoun by way of Sacramento,at which place they were surprised by seven hundred rebels, under command of Colonel Forrest. The troops were fired upon by the rebels before they were aware of their presence, and at first believed they were attacked by Major Megowan, of Col. Jackson’s cavalry, through mistake. The officers, though the ranks were broken, rallied the troops as soon as they discovered the true state of affairs. and for half an hour officers and men,without exception, displayed the most heroic valor and determination in a hand-to-hand engagement of the bloodiest character, and only retreated when their ammunition gave out. The National loss consisted of Capt. Albert G. Bacon, who was fired upon through a window of a house to which his force had been driven, and thus mortally wounded; Lieutenant R. H. King, of Frankfort, was slightly wounded, and seven or tight privates were wounded more or less severely. The rebels stated their loss at thirty when they reached Greenesville. Among the rebels killed was Lieut.-Col. Meriwether, of Hopkinsville. The rebels left Capt. Bacon in the woods in a dying condition, having stripped lam of his watch and rifled his pockets.[1]— (Doc. 241.)

—The Matinsburgh (Va.) Republican, of this date has the following: We have heard of several attempts to destroy the dams along the Potomac, in Berkeley County, so as to blockade the canal, through which the Yankees receive large quantities of coal and produce. All these efforts have proved abortive, even to that recently made by the far-famed “stone-wall brigade,” if there be any truth in the current reports of the last few days. From these we hear that the boats are still running on the canal from above Dam No. 1. This is not a solid structure of stone, as is stated by the Richmond papers. The dam has been materially damaged; but from all we can learn, until there is a freshet sufficient to carry away the ” pile sheeting,” it will act as a feeder to the canal. We make these statements because we have been disgusted at the lies which the dam exploits have occasioned. In imitation of Yankee exaggeration by Southern writers, the false report found its way into the papers that General Jackson had crossed the river, run off the Unionists, and captured several pieces of cannon. It is true that the fright of the Yankees across the Potomac shows that they confidently expected a visit from Jackson. They were in the greatest excitement at Williamsport and Hagerstown. Many left the latter place, and at the former they had made every preparation to destroy their magazine and other property. One of their correspondents left for the camp of General Banks, and afterward wrote that he had seen fifty of General Jackson’s wagons unloading boats, preparatory to crossing the river.

—The diplomatic correspondence between the governments of France and England on the one hand, and that of the United States on the other, concerning the question of international law involved in the seizure of Messrs. Mason and Slidell, was made public. The first document is a note from Mr. Seward to Mr. Adams, in which the case is briefly mentioned, and in which Mr. Seward says that the action of Capt. Wilkes was without any instructions from the Government, and he trusted that the British Government would consider the subject in a friendly temper. Then follows a note from Earl Russell to Lord Lyons, dated November 30, reciting the English version of the case— declaring that the act of Captain Wilkes was an affront to the British flag, and a violation of international law; and announcing that the “liberation of the four gentlemen named, and their delivery to your lordship,” together with a suitable apology for the aggression, alone could satisfy the British nation. To this Mr. Seward responds in a paper, addressed to Lord Lyons, under date of the 26th inst., in which he analyzes at great length the principles of public law involved in the case, and arrives at the conclusion that the Government of the United States would be wrong in refusing to comply with the British demand, so far as relates to the disposition that shall be made of the persons captured. He closes by saying that the “four persons in question will be cheerfully liberated; and your Lordship will please indicate a time and place for receiving them.” No “apology,” however, is offered, because no offence was intended. To this Lord Lyons responds by announcing that he will forward the communication to her Majesty’s Government, and will immediately make arrangements to place the “four gentlemen” again “under the protection of the British flag.” Beside these documents on the Trent case, there is a despatch from M. Thouvenel, the French Minister for Foreign Affairs, to M. Mercier, the “Minister of the Emperor at Washington,” in which Thouvenel pronounces the conduct of the American cruiser unjustifiable, but hopes for a pacific solution of the difficulty. To this Mr. Seward responds in a note to M. Mercier, in which he corrects an error of the Minister of Foreign Affairs, refers him to his correspondence with the British Government, and exchanges assurances of friendship. The settlement of the Trent difficulty affords much gratification, and there is a general expressed acquiescence in the course of the Government, while the despatches of Secretary Seward are viewed in the light of the highest statesmanlike ability. [1] The Louisville Courier published the following account of this affair: Yesterday (Saturday) evening a detachment of Colonel Forrest’s cavalry met the enemy at Sacramento,nine miles from Ramsey, on Green River, and defeated them, after a sharp engagement of half an hour. The Yankees left ten dead on the field, and we took eighteen prisoners, most of them wounded. They had Captain Bacon and one lieutenant killed, and Captain Davis and one lieutenant wounded and our prisoners—their total loss being not less than fifty. Our loss is Captain Meriwether and one private killed, and one private wounded. The enemy fled in confusion toward Rumsey.

 

[farmersdaughter]

Battle of Mount Zion Church
December 28, 1861

The Battle of Mount Zion Church was a battle of the AmericanCivilWar, which occurred on December 28, 1861, in Boone County, southeast of Hallsville, Missouri. The resulting Union victory here and elsewhere in central Missouri ended Confederate recruiting activities in the region and pushed conventional Confederate forces out of the area until the desperate fall 1864 invasion by General Sterling Price and his Missouri State Guard.

Advance into Hallsville

Brig. Gen. Benjamin M. Prentiss led a Union force of 5 companies of the Third Missouri Cavalry [Federal] and 2 companies of Birge's Western Sharpshooters into Boone County to protect the North Missouri Railroad, disrupt the organization of the secessionist Missouri State Guard, and generally overawe secessionist sentiment in the region. Prentiss's forces left the Northern Missouri headquarters in Palmyra, Missouri, on December 24



After arriving in Sturgeon on December 26, Prentiss learned about a concentration of State Guard near Hallsville. He senta companytoHallsville the next daythat foughta StateGuarddetachment underthe command

of Col. Caleb Dorsey and, in a 10 minute skirmish about one half mile north of Mount Zion Church, itself situated about 3 miles southeast of Hallsville and 15 miles northeast of Columbia. [1] Prentiss's troops suffered

casualties, including men taken prisoner, before retreating back to Sturgeon by 6 p.m. [2]

"Report of Brig. Gen Benjamin M. Prentiss, U.S. Army,

Headquarters Army of Northern Missouri, Palmyra, Mo., Jan 4, 1862 "

—

[To] Capt. John C. Kelton, Assistant Adjutant-General Department of Missouri

In pursuance of a special order, received on the evening of December 23, 1861, I proceeded from Palmyra for Sturgeon on the morning of the 24th day of December, with five companies of the Third Missouri Cavalry, Col. John M. Glover commanding. I arrived at Sturgeon on the evening of the 26th. During the following day, having learned that there was a concentration of rebels near the village of Hallsville, in Boone County, I sent forward one company of cavalry, commanded by Capt. Howland, to reconnoiter in that vicinity. Capt. Howland proceeded to Hallsville, but found no rebels. After proceeding about two miles beyond, his advance guard encountered the rebels in force, commanded by Col. Caleb Dorsey. Capt. Howland endeavored to draw off his company, having taken nine prisoners, but was overpowered. Being wounded, and having lost his horse, he was taken prisoner, with one private of his company. The remainder of his men made good their retreat, arriving at Sturgeon at nine o'clock P.M. Having learned the position of the enemy, I immediately ordered five companies of cavalry, Col. John M. Glover, commanding, and five companies of [Birge’s Western] sharpshooters, Col. [John Ward] Birge commanding, numbering in all four hundred and seventy, to march at two o’clock A.M., at which hour I started, and after marching a distance of sixteen miles, at eight o'clock a.m. of the 28th instant I found one company of rebels, commanded by Capt. Johnson, in a position to the left of the road leading from Hallsville to Mount. Zion. I ordered two companies of sharpshooters to pass to the rear of the enemy, and one of cavalry to dismount and engage them in the front, it being difficult for the sharpshooters to attain their position unperceived, the enemy manifesting a disposition to retire. Col. Glover opened fire, and succeeded in killing five, and capturing seven prisoners, from whom I learned the number and position of the main force. The enemy being posted at a church, known as Mount Zion, in Boone County, and one mile and a half in advance, numbering near nine hundred men, I ordered the cavalry under Col. Glover forward, accompanied by two companies of Birge's [Western] Sharpshooters, Col. Birge with them. Arriving near the encampment, one troop of cavalry were ordered to dismount and engage the enemy. The sharpshooters were afterwards ordered through a field on our right to skirmish with the enemy's left, and if possible drive them from the woods. The firing being heavy, these three companies not being able to drive the enemy from his cover, Col. Glover, with his available force, moved in double-quick to the aid of the three companies engaged, and for half and hour longer the battle raged and became a hand-to-hand fight. Capt. [William S.] Boyd's company of sharpshooters were in the midst of the rebel camp, also Major Carrick, with Company C, Third Illinois Cavalry, when Col. Glover arrived. The rebels could not stand the fire of our rifles and retreated, leaving in our hands ninety (90) horses and one hundred and five (105) stand of arms. The battle was brought to a close about eleven A.M. The reserve of two companies coming into action at the moment the enemy gave way, our victory was complete. After collecting our wounded, we proceeded to collect those of the enemy, placed them in the church, and sent for farmers and friends in the vicinity to render assistance. I collected wagons, made our wounded as comfortable as possible, and at four P.M. started for Sturgeon, where we arrived at nine P.M. Our loss in the battle of Mt. Zion and in the engagement of the evening previous is as follows: Killed three; slightly wounded forty-six; severely wounded, seventeen; Rebel loss: Killed, twenty-five; wounded one hundred and fifty. I have not been able to get a correct report of the rebel missing; but having taken thirty prisoners from them, their punishment is a severe one. Sixty of the rebels, with Capt. Howland and four of our men as prisoners, arrived at the camp at night, twenty miles distant from the field of battle. Permit me to mention that our entire force behaved gallantly. I make special mention of the following officers: Col. John M. Glover, Maj. Carrick, Lieuts. Yates and Kirpatrick of the Third Missouri Cavalry; Col. Birge, Capt. Boyd, and Adjt. Temple of Birge's [Western] Sharpshooters, and Lieut. Edwin Moore, my aide. I also assure you that the men behaved with coolness and daring during the engagement. Annexed please find the names of our killed and wounded, and list of rebel wounded, left by us at Mt. Zion. I have the honor to be, Captain, very respectfully, your obedient servant, B.M. Prentiss, Brigadier General



Battle at Mt. Zion

On December 28 at about 2 a.m., Prentiss set out with his entire force to meet Dorsey's force. While the State Guardsmen numbered around 900, most appear to have been local volunteers, many of whom were not armed with military weapons (although many had personal civilian firearms or various types). A detachment of Prentiss' force routed one company of Gurdsmen on the road from Hallsville around 100 yards east of Mount Zion Church and learned that the rest of the force was in the churchyard, situated on a high hill. The main campground was actually in a thicketted hollow immediately eastofthe church.Prentiss advanced onthe State Guard positions, making three charges. [1] At the third, the Confederates exhausted their ammunition, fell back to their wagons, and were overrun. The battle ended around11a.m.

Aftermath

The Missouri State Guard was effectively routed from northern Boone county to Columbia. Dorsey's forces lost 25 dead, 150 wounded, and an additional 60 captured, including an officer. Additionally, the Guardsmen lost wagons, 90 horses, an 105 arms. The remainder dispersed, with Dorsey heading westward into Perche township, the northwest section of Boone County towards the Missouri River. After negotiation and exchange of prisoners, Dorsey made camp near Everett, Missouri. [1] Within days Dorsey received orders from State Guard commander, Major General Sterling Price to scatter his forces. Mount Zion, and the associated battle of Roan's Tan Yard effectively ended attempts at formal State Guard organization in Central Missouri. [2] Remaining elements of Dorsey's command crossed the Missouri and joined General Pierce in February 1862. While guerrilla warfare reappeared to the south and west of Columbia,Confederatesdid not thereafterface Union forces in conventional battle in the area until Price's_Raid in the autumn of 1864.

 

[farmersdaughter]

Battle of Sacramento KY
December 28 1861




Brigadier General Thomas L. Crittenden moved command of the Fifth Division of the Army of the Ohio to a position above the Lock and Dam #2 on the Green River at Calhoun in November 1861. This was to counter Confederate troop movement sixty miles east in Bowling Green, Kentucky's Confederate State Capital. Crittenden's troop strength included two regiments from Daviess County, a regiment from Hartford along with the 25th and 11th Kentucky Infantry, and the troops from the 31st, 42nd, 43rd and 44th Indiana Infantry. Through the heart of McLean County ran a ribbon of water that was the dividing line of a county, the Commonwealth, and of brothers. Crittenden was charged with holding that line along the Green River. Forrest was charged with breaching it.

Crittenden's formidable strength at Calhoun gave the indication of a pending advance by the Fifth Division across the Green River and toward Bowling Green. General Johnston (CSA) ordered reconnaissance to determine the military situation. On December 26th, in Hopkinsville, Lt. Col. Nathan Bedford Forrest's battalion was ordered to probe the strength of Crittenden's Army in this region. Forrest left Hopkinsville with a cavalry strength of 300 effective men and rode to Greenville. There he was joined by Lt. Col. Starne's 8th Tennessee Cavalry. Captain Merriweather's 1st Kentucky Cavalry, and Captain W.S. McLemore. His two forward scouts, Adam R. Johnson and Robert M. Martin were familiar with the area and each had brothers, whom they may now have to fight, stationed at Camp Calhoun.

Just outside the village of Sacramento, eight miles north of Greenville, on December 28th, 1861, Forrest was approached by Miss Mollie Morehead, a young Confederate sympathizer. She informed Forrest that just over the hill Federal troops were dismounted and watering their horses at a place called Garst's Pond. Mollie, in Forrest's own words, "with untied tresses floating in the breeze, on horseback, infusing nerve into my arm and kindling knightly chivalry within my heart" ignited the furry of "Forrest's First" fight. Eighteen-year-old Major Eli H. Murray of the 3rd KY Cavalry was in command of a scouting mission of about 400 men that had been dispatched from Camp Calhoun that morning. Major Murray was soon to be face-to-face with "that Devil Forrest." Mollie had given Forrest the opportunity of surprise. He pulled up his mount, grabbed a Maynard rifle from one of his men and ordered the charge!!! Major Kelly and Lt. Col. Starnes were ordered to flank left, flank right, while dismounted sharpshooters took aim at the confused Federal troops. Forrest himself rode headlong toward Major Murray's advancing cavalry, standing up in his stirrups with saber raised, and sounding that dreaded Rebel Yell!!!

The fight that began south of Sacramento became a running battle through the town for another two miles and climaxed near the little church at Union Station. Forrest, in a mass of horses and men, had just demonstrated the success of his relentless cavalry maneuver which he first used a few miles down the road and this cavalry strategy would become his trademark throughout his military career

 

[farmersdaughter]

December 29 1861

—This afternoon a party of Jeff. Thompson’s men entered the little town of Commerce, Mo., about forty miles from Cairo, Ill.—a place long noted for the steady and unswerving loyalty of its people—and after tearing down and tramping upon a Union flag which was flying there, they proceeded to plunder the different stores in the town of such articles as suited their fancy. After obtaining all they desired here, they concealed themselves near the landing until the steamer City of Alton came along, intending to capture the boat; but just as she was approaching the landing a lady, Mrs. Eversole, wife of one of the citizens of the place, ran down to the landing, and in spite of the repeated threats of Thompson’s men to shoot her if she did not desist, shouted several times to the pilot not to land as Jeff. Thompson’s men were waiting to shoot them. The boat had nearly touched the shore before the pilot comprehended what she meant. He then rung the bell to back the boat. The robbers, finding themselves foiled, sprang from their ambush and fired several volleys at the boat, completely riddling the sides of the cabin and pilot-house, but fortunately without injuring any one. The escape of the passengers was almost miraculous, as there was a large number on board, and the balls pierced the cabin in every direction. The boat backed down the river about two miles, to the head of Max’s Island, where Captain Barnes obtained some arms and lumber to construct breast-works to shield the cabin and pilot-house. The boat then resumed her course, and passed the town without further molestation, the marauders having in the mean time retreated. Had it not been for the timely warning which the pilot received, they would undoubtedly have succeeded in capturing the boat with her valuable stores, and making prisoners of the passengers, including Commander Porter, of the gunboat Essex, and several army officers who were on board.—Cincinnati Gazette, January 4, 1862.

—Twenty-four hundred and sixty cavalry, under Colonel Carr, with fifteen days’ rations, left Rolla, Mo., destined, it was supposed, for Springfield, Mo., by a circuitous route.

—As the steamboat Express, which runs between Old Point and Newport News, Va., was leaving the latter place this morning, a rebel tugboat was seen off Sewell’s Point. She carried a Commodore’s blue pennant, which was mistaken at first for a flag of truce, but on the Express arriving within range she fired a shot across her bows, followed by several shells. The greatest consternation prevailed for a time on board the Express, which is an unarmed steamer, and the schooner Sherwood, employed to bring water from Newport News, which was at the time in tow, was cut adrift. The Sherwood was immediately deserted by her crew, consisting of four men,who escaped by the small boat to Newport News, and drifting down with the tide, was taken possession of by the rebel tog and towed to Craney Island. Her captain stuck to her, and was taken prisoner. The tugboat subsequently made her appearance for the second time, but the Express had crowded all steam on, and reported the circumstance to the flagship. After a long delay the gunboats started, and steaming toward the scene, threw a few shells into Sewell’s Point and Pig Point batteries, without producing any effect. But for the delay in the gunboats getting to the spot, the rebels might have been intercepted, and the schooner saved. The schooner had been lined with zinc, and fitted out with a valuable force pump for a water-boat. —(Doc. 242.)

—A note from the rebel General Huger to General Wool announced that he was ready to send two hundred and forty prisoners of war down the James River from Richmond by a flag of trace whenever they would be received.— Philadelphia Bulletin, December 30.

 

[farmersdaughter]

December 29 1861

—At sundown last night General Heintzelman sent fifty of the New-York Thirty-seventh, under Lieutenant-Colonel John Burke, to capture some rebels, who were at Porter’s, near Occoquan Bridge, Va. They had to march ten to eleven miles through mud, and reached there about one o’clock this morning. A dance was progressing in the house, which was frame, and covered with clapboards. A gun was fired, and they were ordered to surrender. They immediately refused, and opened fire on the National troops through a window, and then made port-holes through the sides, hoping that their firing would be heard by their comrades, and aid come to them. After considerable random firing, a whole platoon fired through the weather-boards, and in a few minutes afterwards the firing ceased, and some one cried out they had surrendered. On examination it was found that inside were bodies of nine privates and one major, of the Texan Rangers, and one civilian dead. The man of the house, Porter, about seventy years old, was taken upstairs, with a musket, which he had been using from a window. The one who surrendered was a civilian, and he said he had been fiddling for a stag-dance; that he was a Union man, and did not fire a gun, but wanted them to surrender at first. The Nationals had one man killed and four wounded. They had the advantage of darkness to cover them, and only could be seen when a gun flashed in firing, while they never put out their lights. Thus not a rebel escaped to tell the tale, unless they had some outside as pickets.[1]

—Mason and Slidell arrived at Southampton, Eng., this morning. They embarked on board the British ship Rinaldo, at Boston, bound for Halifax. Owing to a furious gale, the Rinaldo could not make Halifax, and after trying ineffectually for four days to do so, she ran for Bermuda. Here the English admiral offered to send the commissioners home in Her Majesty’s ship Racer, or convey them to St. Thomas to catch the West-India packet. The latter course was preferred. They acknowledge having been treated in the most handsome manner on board the Rinaldo, and at Bermuda by the British authorities. They were received at Southampton by the officers of the Confederate steamer Nashville and other gentlemen. A large crowd gathered together in the dock to catch a glimpse of men who had caused such anxiety, but no demonstration was made on their landing.—Manchester Guardian, January 30.

—The Twelfth regiment of Iowa Volunteers, under command of Colonel Jackson J. Wood, arrived at Smithland, Ky., to-day.

—The House of Delegates of Virginia passed resolutions in secret session, thanking, in appropriate terms, General Jos. E. Johnson for his distinguished services, and conferring, as a slight testimonial of appreciation by the Legislature, the right for life of annually appointing two cadets to the State Military Institute.—Norfolk Day Book, January 31.

—The rebel Major-General Earl Van Dorn, issued an order assuming command of the Trans Mississippi District Department, embracing the State of Arkansas, part of the State of Missouri, the Indian Territory west of Arkansas, and the State of Louisiana as far south as Red River. The headquarters of the department are at Pocahontas, Ark.—(Doc. 22.) [1]

The following acknowledgments of bravery in this action were made public soon after It occurred:

Headquarters Army of the Potoma,

Washington,
Jan. 31, 1862.
The Commanding General thanks Lieutenant-Colonel John Burke, Thirty-seventh New-York Volunteers, and the handful of brave men of that regiment, and the First New-Jersey Cavalry, under his command, for their services in the affair at Lee’s house, on Belmont or Occoquan Bay, on the night of the 28th Inst. Their coolness under fire, and the discretion and judgment displayed by Lieutenant-Colonel Burke, have won the confidence of the Commanding General, who recognizes hi these qualities the results of discipline and attention to duty. By command of Maj.-Gen. McClellan.
S. Williams,
A. A. G. J. M. Norvell,
A. A. G. Headquarters Division,
Fort Lyon, Va.,
Jan. 300,1862
General Orders, No. 2:


The General commanding the Division takes pleasure in commending Lieutenant-Colonel John Burke, of the Thirty-seventh New-York Volunteers, the officers and men with him, together with the guide, Williamson, for the gallantry and good conduct displayed by them in destroying a party of Texan Rangers, located at Mrs. Lee’s house, on the banks of the Occoquon, and in sight of the rebel batteries. It is to be regretted that after all resistance had ceased, a more thorough search was not made of the house to discover the actual loss of the enemy, and to bring away all their arms. By order, Brig.-Gen. Heinzelman. Isaac Moses, A. A. G

 

[farmersdaughter]

December 31 1861

—The Canadian press comments upon the release of Messrs. Mason and Slidell in the same spirit which has prompted its various representations hitherto in their treatment of the rebellion. The Leader uses the most abusive language at its command. It pronounces the surrender one of the “greatest collapses since the beginning of time,” and has much to say of the “humiliation” of the National Government. The Globe talks much more moderately, and heartily congratulates its readers on the result; and the Montreal Gazette speaks of it as a “bitter, bitter pill for the fire-eaters to cram down their noisy throats.”—N. T. Times, December 81. —

In the United States Senate a communication was received from the Secretary of War, to-day, stating that it is incompatible with the public interest to furnish the correspondence which has passed between General Scott and General Patterson, relative to the conduct of the war. —N. Y. Herald, December 31.

—Captains Shillinglaw and Mason, of the Seventy-ninth New York regiment, Lieutenant Dickinson, of the Third United States infantry, Lieutenant J. W. Hart, Twentieth Indiana, and Corporal Thomas McDowell, of the Seventy-ninth New York, arrived at Fortress Monroe, from Richmond, Va., by a flag of truce from Norfolk.

—At Washington, D. C., Daniel S. Dickinson presented a costly stand of State colors to the Dickinson Guard, Eighty-ninth New York Volunteers. E. H. Duell received .them in behalf of the regiment, delivering a felicitous address. Vice-President Hamlin, Gen. Casey and Staff, W. S. Doane, Augustus Schell, and others, were present.

—At seven o’clock this morning an expedition, consisting of three U. S. gunboats,with an additional force of marines, left Ship Island, in the Gulf of Mexico, under command of Commander Melanchthon Smith, U. S. N., for the city of Biloxi, Mississippi. No resistance being met with, Commander Smith landed at the wharf, under a flag of truce, and held a short conference with the Mayor of the city, who, after an hour’s consultation with some prominent citizens, surrendered the town and the battery commanding the harbor. The guns of the battery were dismounted and carried to the boats by U. S. sailors—the inhabitants witnessing the proceedings. While this was transpiring on shore, a schooner was discovered working her way back of Deer Island into Biloxi Bay. A boat was instantly manned and sent in pursuit. After rowing about nine miles, the vessel was overtaken and forced to surrender— she was on her way to New Orleans with thirty thousand feet of hard pine flooring boards as a cargo. It not being Commander Smith’s design to hold Biloxi, the expedition returned this evening to Ship Island with their prize in tow.—(Doc. 245.)

—The Richmond Examiner of to-day, publishes the following on the Confederate Tax Bill: In the Tax bill enacted by the Confederate States Congress there is a clause placing a tax upon “all interest-bearing bonds.” We learn that, according to the construction of the law given by Secretary Memminger, the taxpayer will not be permitted to deduct his liabilities from the amount of money due him, although he may be, in fact, in arrears. Thus, if his liabilities amount to one hundred thousand dollars, and he holds “interest-bearing bonds” to the amount, of fifty thousand dollars, he has to pay a tax upon the fifty thousand dollars, when, in reality, he is worth nothing. Again: A has purchased a farm at forty thousand dollars, and sold his own for thirty thousand dollars. He is in possession of the forty thousand dollar farm, and has to pay a land tax thereon; at the same time be holds the bonds, “interest-bearing,” for the thirty thousand dollar farm, because the “stay law” prevents their execution. He is, therefore, required to pay a tax upon the thirty thousand dollars, and also upon the forty thousand dollar farm; thus paying a tax upon seventy thousand dollars, when in reality he holds only forty thousand dollars’ worth of property. His bonds are fastened upon him, and he cannot collect them. Again, B holds A’s bends for the forty thousand dollars farm; B must, therefore, pay a tax upon these bends. Therefore, the land purchased by A from B is paying a double tax; Be is the land sold by A to C; for A pays a tax on C’s bends for thirty thousand dollars, and C pays on the land in kind. Such a law, or the construction of it, is certainly wanting in uniformity and justice.

—At Berlin, above the Point of Rocks, in Maryland, an affair occurred which illustrates the necessity of extreme caution in dealing with the rebels. Two men approached the river on the Virginia side with a flag of truce and begged to be brought over, stating they were refugees. Captain Pardee, of Company A, Twenty-eighth Pennsylvania, gave orders to so dispose of his force as to cover a boat to bring them over, in the mean time entertaining those on the opposite side by conversation to distract their attention. When all was ready he despatched a sergeant and two men in a boat to bring them off. As the boat approached the shore a company of dismounted rebel cavalry showed themselves on the hill above and fired a volley upon the boat. The crew threw themselves overboard toward the Maryland shore, and thus protected pulled the boat across. In the mean time Pardee’s concealed riflemen opened on the cavalry with such effect as to came a stampede with great loss in wounded, at least. One of the boatmen had an ear lacerated by a ball from the cavalry.—N. Y. Evening Post, January 4, 1862.

 

[farmersdaughter]

January 1, 1862 —The year closed under gloomy auspices; with a check at Dranesville, and a rumored disaster in Missouri. The year which has begun opens with evil tidings. We fear that there is no doubt of the fact that the Northern Union has consented to the surrender of Mason and Slidell; and with that event all hope of an immediate alliance between the Southern Confederacy and Great Britain must cease. Under other circumstances we might derive a consolation for the loss by considering the ineffaceable disgrace that falls on the enemy. Never, since the humiliation of the Doge and Senate of Genoa before the footstool of Louis XIV., has any nation consented to a degradation so deep. If Lincoln and Seward intended to give them up at a menace, why, their people will ask, did they ever capture the ambassadors?Why the exultant hurrah over the event, that went up from nineteen millions of throats?Why the glorification of Wilkes?Why the coward insults to two unarmed gentlemen, their close imprisonment, and the bloodthirsty movements of Congress in their regard?But, most of all, why did the government of Lincoln indulge a full Cabinet with an unanimous resolution that, under no circumstances, should the United States surrender Messrs. Slidell and Mason?Why did they encourage the popular sentiment to a similar position?The United States government and people swore the great oath to stand on the ground they had taken; the American eagle was brought out; he screeched his loudest screech of defiance—then “Dropt like a craven cock his conquered wing” at the first growl of the lion. This is the attitude of the enemy. It would greatly console us to contemplate him, did we not know that no new exhibition of insolence and cowardice could sink him lower in the world’s estimation. The United States have lost no character by an exhibition of poltroonery as yet unknown in the diplomacy of other nations. That country had already sunken beneath the reach of infamy. The only charge of bayonets made during the war by Lincoln’s soldiers, was that of Fairfax’s marines on Miss Slidell; and the surrender of her father at the first menace of Great Britain, will create neither more disgust or further surprise. Nor can we hope for a popular revulsion in the Northern people against the folly and pusillanimity of their rulers. People and rulers are alike. It is only in the sentiment of England that we can find a ray of encouragement. It is certain that the British wanted war; that they were confident of getting it, and that they will be bitterly disappointed at the unsatisfactory result. Now, this result, though apparently due to the lily livers of the Yankees, is partially attributable to the management of the Palmerston ministry. That Cabinet gave Seward and Lincoln the chance of humiliation, when it could have taken redress with the high hand, and shut the door to apology by recalling Lyons, sending home Adams, and setting the British fleet at once in full sail for the scene of action. The Palmerston ministry is the friend of the North, and is directly antagonistical to the majority of the British nation. On these data we venture the prophecy that in less than three months this ministry will fall from power. Whenever it does so, we may anticipate immediate intervention by Great Britain in the affairs of this continent. The inclinations and interest of that people are so closely united on this one point that we do not hesitate to declare the result a moral necessity. But for some time we may be left alone in this quarrel. Let us not repine, though the task be heavy on the arm. If we would respect ourselves, consolidate our nationality, insure our future independence, and transmit a heroic memory to posterity, we must prove to ourselves and to all others, that our own unaided strength is sufficient for our own redemption. If it is not, there remains one resolution, by which every citizen that is worthy of freedom can avoid the sight of its extinction and the spectacle of his country’s ruin —to die in the last ditch of their defence.—Richmond Examiner.

—Mason and Slidell left Fort Warren, Boston harbor, about eleven o’clock this forenoon. The arrangement for their return was very quietly made, and nothing was known at Boston in regard to the affair, until the hour arrived for their departure. The steam tugboat Starlight was employed by the Government to convey the prisoners to Provincetown, Cape Cod, where they were to be transferred to the British gunboat Rinaldo, which arrived at that port last night. Accordingly the tugboat Starlight left Boston shortly before ten o’clock this morning, and stopped at Fort Warren, where she took on board Mason and Slidell, and their two secretaries. After receiving their baggage, etc., the tug proceeded on her way to sea, leaving the fort about eleven o’clock. The whole affair was conducted without any display, in perfect quiet, and in the ordinary manner of conveying passengers. The tugboat reached Provincetown this afternoon, and the prisoners were transferred to the British gunboat, which immediately proceeded to sea.

—The Court of Inquiry, in the case of Colonel Miles, charged with being intoxicated at the battle of Bull Run, honorably acquitted him of the charge. The decision is furnished in a report of Reverdy Johnson and R. S. Gillett, in which they declare that the bulk of the evidence produced on the trial goes to show that the charges arc entirely false.

—The British prize bark Empress, of Hull, arrived at New-York from New-Orleans bar. She was bound from Rio Janeiro for New-York, as her captain reported, and had been ordered off from Pass a l’Outre previously, and was captured by the United States sloop Vincennes. She had a cargo of six thousand five hundred bags coffee.

—All the Yankee prisoners from Charleston, including Colonel Corcoran, arrived at Columbia, S. C, this afternoon, in a special train. They were met at the depot by the rebel-guard of this city, and conducted to prison.—Richmond Dispatch, January 3.

—The rebel batteries at Pensacola, Fla., having repeatedly fired at the national vessels, Fort Pickens opened on the rebel 6teamer Times, which was landing stores at the navy-yard today. The rebel batteries responded, and the firing was continued till evening, Fort Pickens firing the last shot The rebel guns were well aimed, and most of their shells burst inside of the fort; only one man was wounded, however. A shot from Fort Pickens made a large breech in Fort Barrancas. In the evening the National guns set Warrington on fire.—(Doc. 1.)

—The Knoxville (Tenn.) Register of to-day expresses the opinion that Parson Brownlow’s release was a great blunder, and gives the following reasons: In brief, Brownlow has preached at every church and school-house, and made stump-speeches at every cross-road, and knows every man, woman and child, and their fathers and grandfathers before them, in East-Tennessee. As a Methodist circuit-preacher, a political stump speaker, a temperance orator, and the editor of a newspaper, he has been equally successful in our division of the State. Let him but once reach the confines of Kentucky, with his knowledge of the geography and population of East Tennessee, and our section will soon feel the effect of his hard blows. From among his own old partisan and religious sectarian parasites he will find men who will obey him with the fanatical alacrity of those who followed Peter the Hermit in the first crusade. We repeat again, let us not underrate Brownlow.

—Twelve of the Buckner Guards, under Lieut. Hines, crossed Green River, Ky., twelve miles from Morgantown, surrounded a house in which four Federal troops were concealed, and took them prisoners. They got ten guns and the sword of Capt. Phelps, which he had left there. After recrossing the river, they attempted to arrest a man who had several times fired at the Confederate soldiers across the river. The man shot at Mr. Cook, one of the guides, but missed him, whereupon Cook shot him dead.—Bowling Green Courier, January 4.

—At Richmond, Va., there was a more general observance of “New Year’s” than usual, owing to the fact that the war had brought to that city a considerable addition to the population from other cities, where the anniversary is always a period of social festivity. The streets were thronged with ladies, and every body looked gay and cheerful. Among notable events of the day was the President’s reception, which commenced at twelve o’clock, and continued three hours. The President stood at the door of the large reception-room, and thousands of persons took advantage of the opportunity to give him a friendly grasp of the hand. Mrs. Davis was not present, but her place was well supplied by her sister, Miss Howell, Mrs. Col. Davis and Mrs. General Jones. The ceremonies of introduction were conducted by the President’s aids, Colonel Joseph Davis and Colonel G. W. C. Lee. The armory band was present, and every thing passed off delightfully. —Richmond Dispatch, January 2.

—A joint expedition of gunboats,under command of Commander C. R. P. Rodgers, and a column of infantry, commanded by General Stevens, left Port Royal Harbor, S. C., yesterday evening, and this morning proceeded across the Coosaw River, and shelled the rebel fort at Port Royal Ferry. On taking possession of the batteries, it was found that the retreating rebels had removed all their guns but one, though quite a number of shells were discovered in the magazines. Port Royal Ferry was immediately reopened by the Union forces, and the fort garrisoned by the Pennsylvania Roundheads. After its occupation, the rebels appeared in force and in line of battle, whereupon the gunboats opened upon them with shot and shell, driving them into the woods, and causing great havoc in their ranks. When the firing ceased, which was after sunset, a rebel officer was sent with a flag of trace, to ask permission to carry off their killed and wounded; but the gunboats reopened fire before General Stevens’ reply was obtained, which caused the rebel messenger to put spurs to his horse, and gallop off in hot haste.

 

[farmersdaughter]

January 2 1862

—This morning, about half-past nine o’clock, the rebels reappeared in the woods near Port Royal Ferry, S. C, whence they had been driven yesterday. A sharp firing was kept up for some time by the Union gunboats,to keep them in check, throwing shot and shell into the woods. Before ten o’clock the Union troops crossed the Coosaw River, under cover of the boats, and proceeded down the river en route for Port Royal Harbor.—(Doc. 2.)

—In the Confederate Congress at Richmond, Va., Daniel P. White, of Kentucky, appeared, was qualified, and took his seat.

—The steamship Ella Warley, formerly the Isabel, from Nassau, ran the blockade, and arrived at Charleston, S. C, at daylight this morning. She was chased and ineffectually shelled by the blockaders. She brings a valuable assorted cargo and passengers, including Mr. Bisbie, formerly a delegate in the Virginia Legislature from the city of Norfolk. Mr. Bisbie is a bearer of important dispatches from Mr. Yancey, and has started for Richmond.—Charleston Mercury, January 3.

—General Stone, at Poolesville, Md., issued an order cautioning the troops under his command against encouraging insubordination and rebellion among the slaves, and threatening punishment to such as might violate his orders.— (Doc. 3.)

—An experiment was tried this morning for the purpose of determining whether the rebel battery at Cockpit Point, on the Potomac River, could be attacked, and if so, in what manner with the greatest hopes of success. At ten o’clock, the gunboat Anacostia approached the battery, and took up a position somewhat above and opposite Mattawoman creek. She threw in a number of shells, several of which were seen to explode into the rebel battery. The steamer Yankee then got under way, and stood for the battery, ranging herself right opposite. She commenced by firing two shells from her bow-gun, a sixty-four-pounder, and afterwards continued to pour in her fire on the enemy from her after-guns, consisting of a thirty-two-poundcr, and twenty-four-pounder brass howitzer, and a twelve-pounder brass rifled cannon. The enemy replied to the Yankee, for the Anacostia was so placed that the batteries could not hit her, throwing four shots, the second of which struck the Yankee, entering the forecastle on the portside, her head being up the river, and knocking away a knee entirely; passing to the starboard-side, the shot smashed another knee and dropped on the floor, its force being spent.—Philadelphia Press, January 4.

—The Memphis Argus of this date gives the following picture of the situation of affairs at the South: Price is in full retreat southward. Price will probably continue in full retreat, for there are several—indeed no less than three—Union armies, each as large, better armed, and better equipped, converging upon him. His past victories have been rendered valueless. Union forces have been massed in Kentucky too great for a man of Sydney Johnston’s calibre to venture to attack, and the paralyzing of Price through the withdrawal of McCulloch, has rendered the overrunning of Missouri, to the Arkansas frontier, an easy task to the Unionists. We’re forced back out of Missouri —checkmated in Kentucky. Chase has obtained his money in Wall street. The blockade is unbreakable by us as yet. In one word, we’re hemmed in. We’ve allowed the moment of victory to pass. We were so anxious watching the operations of England, that we stand aghast, on turning our eyes homeward again, to find ourselves ten times worse off than we were ere the commencement of Price’s last forward march, and that accursedly used sensationalism, the arrest of Messrs. Mason and Slidell. Day follows day, and in lieu of being weakened, we find the Federal armies at all points being strengthened, almost every article of manufacturing and domestic necessity quadrupled in price, and our money will soon be exceeding scarce for lack of paper and pasteboard wherewith to make it. We pay fifteen cents apiece for sperm candles, and we are told we ought to be glad to get them at that. Our twelve-months soldiers’ time will soon be up; and we can not help asking, as they do themselves, what have they been permitted or led to do?It is an old and ever-proven truism that when two nations are at war, that which has the least means must find success in early and rapid action, for it can gain little by time, while the other finds in time the power to bring into efficient use its more varied means. Cabined, cribbed, confined as we were, and evidently would be, our shortest, clearest and most noble policy was to find in the rapid use of our early revolutionary enthusiasm an overmatch for the slower and less spirited, but more enduring North. Where shall we ask relief; where should we ask it save in the camps on whom we have lavished our heart’s blood, our hopes, our wealth, our whole; where but upon the banks of the Potomac?When will we see an end of the farce there being enacted, at our expense? Indirectly every mouthful we eat is taxed; our babies wear taxed caps and shoes; our boys write on taxed paper; our girls wear taxed calicoes; our men do a taxed business, and hopelessly ride in a taxed hearse to a taxed grave, and we, forsooth, are hurting “the cause” if we dare to turn from Messrs. Mason and Slidell to look at the country we were born and bred in, and, having looked, we are hurting the cause if we dare tell what we sea Our cause is right, it is holy. Our suffering may be God’s price of success, but who, seeing what might have been, and knows what is being suffered through its being undone, can refrain from cursing the selfishness or idiocy that stopped the conquering Beauregard, that arrested the march of Price, that checked the gallant Jackson?We have gazed imploringly on the lion, while the fox has been weaving his toils. Our press and our people have trusted far enough. We now ask, are we to continue hemmed in for another six months and lack all things, or shall our armies on to Washington and lack nothing?

—Despatches were received at St. Louis, Mo., announcing the capture of the notorious Jeff. Owens, Colonel Jones, and fifty of their bridge-burning gang, near Martinsburg, Adrian county, by General Schofield, commander of the State militia, and that the various guerrilla bands along the North-Missouri Railroad had been pretty thoroughly scattered. —National Intelligencer, January 4.

 

[farmersdaughter]

Battle of Hancock
January 1 1862

The Battle of Hancock, also called the Romney Campaign, [1]

was a battle fought during the Romney Expedition, occurred January 5–6, 1862, in Washington County, Maryland, and Morgan County, West Virginia, as part of Maj. Gen. Thomas J. "Stonewall" Jackson's operations against the Baltimore and Ohio (B&O)

Railroad during the American Civil War. [1]

On January 1, 1862, Confederate general Stonewall Jackson led his men from Winchester to Bath in an attempt to disturb traffic on the Baltimore and Ohio Railroad and the Chesapeake and Ohio Canal. Jackson's men reached the Potomac River opposite the garrisoned town of Hancock, Maryland on January 5, after a

skirmish with Union soldiers. [1] Jackson's artillery openedfire on the town from Orrick's Hill but it resulted in only minor damage. Union garrison commander Brig. Gen. Frederick W. Lander refused to surrender to Jackson, who continuedthe bombardment for two days while unsuccessfully searching for a safe river

crossing. [1] On January 7, the Confederate soldiers withdrew and

set out for Romney, West Virginia.