TITLE: The war of the rebellion: a compilation of the official records of the Union and Confederate armies. / Series 1 - Volume 23 (Part I) AUTHOR: United States. War Dept., John Sheldon Moody, Calvin Duvall Cowles, Frederick Caryton Ainsworth, Robert N. Scott, Henry Martyn Lazelle, George Breckenridge Davis, Leslie J. Perry, Joseph William Kirkley PUBLISHER: Govt. Print. Off., Washington, 1889 Page A Production Note Cornell University Library produced this volume to preserve the informational content of the deteriorated original. The best available copy of the original has been used to create this digital copy. It was scanned bitonally at 600 dots per inch resolution and compressed prior to storage using ITU Group 4 compression. Conversion of this material to digital files was supported by the Andrew W. Mellon Foundation. Digital file copyright by Cornell University Library 1995. This volume has been scanned as part of The Making of America Project, a cooperative endeavor undertaken to preserve and enhance access to historical material from the nineteenth century. Page B Title Page Page R001 THE WAR OF THE REBELLION: A COMPILATION OF THE OFFICIAL BECOIRDS OF THE UNION AND CONFEDERATE ARMIES. PREPARED, UNDER THE DIRECTION OF THE SECRETARY OF WAR, BY The late Lient. Col. ROBERT N. SCOTT, Third U. S. Artillery. PUBLISHED UNDER THE SUPERVISION OF Lient. Col. HENRY M. IJAZELLE, Twenty-third U. S. Infantry. PURSUANT TO ACTS OF CONGRESS. SERIES IVOLUME XXIIIIN TWO PARTS. PART IREPORTS. WASHINGTON: GOVERNMENT PRINTING OFFICE. 1889 Page R002 Page R003 PREFACE. By an act approved June 23, 1874, Congress made an appropriatiom to enable the Secretary of War to begin the publication of the Of- ficial Records of the War of the Rebellion, both of the Union and Con- federate Armies, and directed him to have copied for the Public Printer all reports, letters, telegrams, and general orders not hereto- fore copied or printed, and properly arranged in chronological order. Appropriations for continuing such preparation have. been made from time to time, and the act approved June 16, 1880, has provided for the printing and jbirtding, under direction of the Secretary of War, of 10,000 copies of a compilation of the Official Records (Union and Confederate) of the War of the Rebellion, so far as the same may be ready for publication, during the fiscal year; and that of said number, 7,000 copies shall be for the use of the House of Represent- atives, 2,000 copies for the use of the Senate, and 1,000 copies for the use of the Executive Department5.~~* This compilation will be the first general publication of the mili- tary records of the war, and will embrace all official documents that can be obtained by the compiler, and that appear to be of any his- torical value. * Volumes IV distributed under act approved June 16, 1880. The act approved August 7, 1882, provides that The volumes of the Official Records of the War of the Rebellion shall be dis- tributed as follows: One thousand copies to the Executive Departments, as now provided by law. One thousand copies for distribution by the Secret~y of War among officers of the Army and contributors to the work. Eight thousand three hundred .copies shall be sent by the Secretary of War to such libraries, organiza- tions, and individuals as may be designated by the Senators, Representatives, and Delegates of the Forty-seventh Congress. Each Senator shall designate not exceed- ing twenty-six, and each Representative and Delegate not exceeding twenty-one of such addresses, and the volumes shall be sent thereto from time to time as they are published, until the publication is completed. Senators, Representatives, and Dele- gates shall inform the Secretary of War in each case how many volumes of those heretofore published they have forwarded to such addresses. The remaining copies of the eleven thousand to be published, and all sets that may not be ordered to be distributed as provided herein, shall be sold by the Secretary of War for cost of publication, with ten per cent. added thereto, and the proceeds of such sale shall be covered into the Treasury. If two or more sets of said volumes are ordered to the same address, the Secretary of War shall inform the Senators, Representatives, or Delegates who have designated the same, who thereupon may designate other libraries, organizations, or individuals. The Secretary of War shall report to the first session of the Forty-eighth Congress what volumes of the series heretofore published have not been furnished to such libraries, organizations, and individuals. He shall also inform distributees at whose instance the volumes are sent. (III Page R004 Iv PREFACE. The publication will present the records in the following order of arrangement: The 1st Series will embrace the formal reports, both Union and Con- federate, of the first seizures of United States property in the South- ern States, and of all military operations in the field, with the cor- respondence, orders, and returns relating specially thereto, and, as proposed, is to be accompanied by an Atlas. In this series the reports will be arranged according to the cam- paigns and several theaters of operations (in the chronological order of the events), and the Union reports of any event will, as a rule, be immediately followed by the Confederate accounts. The correspond- ence, & c., not embraced in the reports proper will follow (first Union and, next Confederate) in chronological order. The 2d Series will contain the correspondence, orders, reports, and returns, Union and Confederate, relating to prisoners of war, and (so far as the military authorities were concerned) to State or politi- cal prisoners. The 3d Series will contain the correspondence, orders, reports, and returns of the Union authorities (embracing their correspondence with the Confederate officials) not relating specially to the subjects of the first and second series. It will set forth the annual and spe- cial reports of the Secretary of War, of the General-in-Chief, and of the chiefs of the several staff corps and departments; the calls for troops, and the correspondence between the National and the several State authorities. The 4th Series will exhibit the correspondence, orders, reports, and returns of the Confederate authorities, similar to that indicated for the Union officials, as of the third series, but excluding the cor- respondence between the Union and Confederate authorities given in that series. ROBERT N. SCOTT, Major Third Art., and Bvt. Lieut. Col. WAR DEPARTMENT, August 23, 1880. Approved: ALEX. RAMSEY, Secretary of War Table of Contents Page R005 CONTENTS. CHAPTER XXXV. Page. Operations in Kentucky, Middle and East Tennessee, North Alabama, and Southwest Virginia 1858 (v Page R006 Additions and Corrections Page A001 THE WAR OF THE REBELLION: A COMPILATION OF THE OFFICIAL 7VU2COIRDS OF THE UNION AND CONFEDERATE ARMIES. ADDITIONS AND (~ORREQTTONS TO SERIES I VOLUME XXIII. (To be inserted iii the volume. For explariai ion. see General Index volume, Serial iNo. 130, page XXVIII.) PUBLISHEI) UNI)ER TI-IR I)IHECTION OF The Hon. ELIHU ROOT, Secretary of War, BY CHIEF OF THE BRIG. GEN. FRED C. ALNEWORTH, RECORD ANI) PENSION OFFICE, WAR DEPARTMENT, AND MR. JOSEPH W. KJRKLEY. Mr. JOHN S. MOODEY, Indexer. WAS HJNGTON: GOYERNMENT PRINTING OFFICE. 1902 Page A002 ADDITIONS AND CORRECTIONS. TEXT. PART i. Page 5. Eighth line, top, erase Skirmish al Burnsville, Ala. Page 115. Johnstons report, last line, for 2,000 read 2200. Page 231. Erase foot-note and insert See Plale 28, Map 5, of Ike Alias. Page 588. Erase foot-note and insert See Plale 32, Maps, of Ike Alias. Page 677. Erase foot-note and insert Whiles reporl nolfound; for Hayes report, See Series I, Vol. 51, Earl z, p. 207. Page 678. Comlys report, second line, for Twenly-fiflh read Tzven/v-lhird. Page 813. Erase foot-note and insert See Plale 94 Map 4, of Ike Alias. Page 852. For Hansons read Hansens. Page 888. Under Georgia Troops, Infanlry, insert Regimenls. before 371h. PART 2. Page 223. Dodge to Rosecrans, second line, after Decalur insert building ferry- boals, collecling forage al Florence, one ballery. Page 236. Hnrlbut to Rosecrans, first line, for Henrys [5] read Enemys. Page 289. Meigs to Swords, fourth line, for Lientenant-Golonel Semple read Lieu- tenant-Colonel Taylor. Page 316. First foot-note, for Series III read Series II. Page 371. Hnrlbut to Rosecrans, third line, for west of Vicksburg read zoest of Bs~y Black and northeast of Vicksburg. Page 382. Huribut to Rosecrans, sixteenth line, for captured zoo, found ~o ___ read captured 550 prisoners. Page 541. Asboth to Pennock, second line, strike out the period after Cairo and insert a comma; also strike out the comma after Gonner and insert a period after commanding. Page 590. Rosecrans to Halleck, first line, for North Duck River read north of Duck River. Page 667. Last communication, date line, add 11.45 ~. m. Page 668. Second communication, date line, add is a. m. Page 823. Flowerree to Gracie, date line, for May 7 read May ~. Page 84i. Jones to Maury, date line, for May iS read May z. Page 852. Williams to Jones, first line, for [W. W.J Baldwins read [W. M.] Baldwins. Page 913. Erase foot-note Not found and insert See Plate So, Map 12, of the Atlas. Page 975. For Baldwins (W. W.) read Baldwins (W. M.). Page 978. For Hutchinsons read Hut chisons. INDEX. Insert all words and figures in italIcs and strike out all in [brackets]. An asterisk (*) following a correction indicates that Additions and correctiot~s to the text should be consulted. References are to parts of volume. Part Part. Adams, B.J., U.S. S s Boyles [Iloyle], W. H Alabama Troops (C.). Bradford, James W. [Captain] 2 InfantryRegiments: Burkesville, Ky. [Tenn.] [26th, 735] 2 Buruside, Ambrose I(. 50th, 735 2 Reports of Avent, Benjamin W. [F.] 2 Southeastern Kentucky. Operations in, B.J. Adams, U. S. S., 280 etc., 296 [293] Barlow, II. H r [Burnsville, Ala. Beatty, Rowland [Howlaud] J Skirmish at, June ii, iS6~, 5]* lilakey, Thomas R r. lIar/an James M. [nurt, Captain] Page A003 ADDITIONS AND CORRECTIONS. Carter, Joseph [Captain] Carter, Samuel P. Assignments to command, 596 [~~] Chancellorsville, Va. Battle of, May 13 [23], 1863 Chapin, Marshal [Marshall] W Clark, Walter [Dr.] Clingan, Judge K. [R.] Cluke, R. S. Mentioned, 695 [Clarke [Cluke?], 695] Commerce, Steamboat [U. S. S.] Cook, Gustave [George] Cook, William R. [Colonel] Cotter, William D. [ ] Goiter, William D. [Cotler, Captain] Cushman, A. W [ ] Cutler, William Parker [Mr.] Daily, Thomas H. [David W.] Eadie John [Lieutenant] Erdelmeyer [Erdelmyer], F Eucking [Eucking], John P Everetts Raid. June 1323, 1863. SeeEastern Kentucky Fowler [Fouler], W. H Gaddis, M. [W.] P Gholston [Gohlston], D. L Green, John [James] U Green, Shepherd [S. H.] Greer [Green], John [(49th Ohio)] Gurley, F B. [ ] Hamilton, Frank H. [S.] Hansen [Hanson], Ferdinand Harisuff, George L. Correspondence with laugh, Joseph [James] R Peirce [Pierce], E.W Haugh, Joseph [James] R [Henry, , 236] * Hines Raid. June 57, 1863. See Indiana.... Hutchison [Hutchinson], A. S lanes, William P. Report of operations, etc., 582 Irvin, James M. 261 [s66] Jenkins, William G., 4~t5, ft7 [Jenkins, Wil- liam T., 445, 4~7] Johnson, Oliver P Jones, Thomas P. [C.] Kenny [Kenneyl, Dennis, jr Kentucky. Operations in, etc. Communications from Haugh, Joseph [James] R Kentucky Troops (C.). CavalryRegiments: ist, i~8 InfantryRegimcnts: [1st (Helm), 458] Kimbley [Kimhly], John F [T.] Langdou, [E.] Bassett Lawrence, Walker [William] E Mc Gown, Harrison W. [McCowan, Dr.] McKee, Samuel [Captain] Marshall, Cbarles A Middle Tennessee. Wheeler, Joseph, assigned to command of all the cavalry in, z Part. 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 12 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 3 Part. Miller, Jacoh C. Moore, Franklin [Frank] 2 Morgans Raid. July 2-26, 1863. Communications from Peirce [Pierce], EW Murphy, John [James] I Nickersan [Nickeson], L. S I Northern Alahama. Operations in, etc. See [June ii, 1863. Burnsville. Skirmish at]. Ohio. Military departments emhracing, 151 [~s~] 2 Ohio Troops. InfantryBattalions: ist Sharpshooters (Companies), gth, 6th, 7th [Companies: 7th Sharpshooters] .. ist Sharpshooters ((Jompanies), ~th, 6th, 7th [Companies: 5th Sharpshooters, * * * 7th Sharpshooters] 2 Parks,J. H. [Captain] 2 Pavey, Charles [J.] W Peirce [Pierce], E. W Peirce [Pierce], Ehenezer W 2 Peirce [Pierce], W. W 2 Piatt, J. H s Polograf, Mathew, 131 [34] 2 Prentice, C. ~ [Ma]or] 2 Reynolds, Francis [Frank] E Roebling, John A. [Roelling, M.] 2 Rosecrans, Williala S. Correspondence with Van Duzer [Duser], J. C 2 Roush, David A. [P.] Russell, Francis L. P Sanders Raid. June i-si, 1863. See East Tennessee Scales, William [ ] Scales, William [Captain] 2 Schut [Schutt], Edward H., ~ [Shutt, Ed- ward H., ~6~] I Scotts RaT. Jnly si-A ng. 6, 1863. See East- ern Kentucky [Semple, Lieutenant-Colonel, 289]* 2 Sherman, Francis T. [F.] I Shryock [Schryock], K.G s Smith, George W. Mentioned, is; Smith, John W., [412] I [Smith, M. L., 258] Smith, William H. H., 193 969; Smith, Wil- liam H., [4~y~, 969] 2 Statesville, Tuna. Reconnaissance to, April s6 [44], 1863.... 2 Stokes, William B. Correspondence with Haugh,Joseph [James] R 2 Strocky, F A. [Stockey, Ma]or] 2 Sulivane [Sullivane], E. ClemeIlt Swingley, A. [H.] L 1 Tennessee. Affairs, etc. Comasulmications from Van Duzer [Duser], J. C 2 Tennessee Troops (C.). CavalryBattaliolms: Don, lass, s8 CavalryRegiments: [Douglass, 28] Page A004 ADDITIONS AND CORRECTIONS. Tennessee Troops (U.). Artillery, T,ightBattalions: ist (Batteries), B,33o [Batteries: ist, 330] Texas Troops. CavalryRegiments: i~tJi, 942, 959 InfantryRegiments: [15th] Thaver, William A Trecy,J. F. [Tracy, ] Part. 2 2 Van Duzer [Doser], J. C Voorlzees, Jacob [Vorheis, I~ieutenant] Waggener [Waggoner], R. J Warner, Jerome B. [G.] Warren [Warner], J. M [Watts, Newman, 652] White, Carr B., 677* Williams, John L. [S.] Yocum,N. [M.M.] Yoe, George P Young, J. F., 919 [5~9] 4 Part. 2 2 2 2 Special Index Page R007 CONTENTS OF PRECEDING VOLUMES. VOLUME I. CHAPTER L Page. Operations in Charleston Harbor, South Carolina. December 20, 1860-April 14, 1861 1817 CHAPTER IL The secession of Georgia. January 3-26, 1861 318325 CHAPTER III. The secession of Alabama and Mississippi. January 4-20, 1861 326-330 CHAPTER IV. Operations in Arkansas, the Indian Tern- Operations in Florida. January 6-August tory, and Missouri. February 7-May 9, CHAPTER V Page. The secession of North Carolina. Jan uary 9May 20, 1861 474488 CHAPTER VI. The secession of ~Louisiana. January 10- February 19, 1861 489501 CHAPTER VIL Operations in Texas and New Mexico. February 1June 11, 1861 502636 CHAPTER VIII. 637691 VOLUME II. CHAPTER IX. Page. Operations in Maryland, Pennsylvania, Virginia, and West Virginia. April 18-July 31, 1861.. 1-1012 VOLUME III. CHAPTER X. Page. Operations in Missouri, Arkansas, Kansas, and Indian Territory. May 10-November 19, 1861.. 1-749 VOLUME IV. CHAPTER XI. Page. CHAPTER XIII. Page. Operations in Texas, New Mexico, and Operations in North Carolina and South- Arizona. June11, 1861-February 1, 1862. 1174 eastern Virginia. August 1, 1861Jaun- CHAPTER XII. ary 11, 1862 566-721 Operations in Kentucky and Tanuessee. July 1November 19, 1861 175-565 VOLUME V. CHAPTER XIV. Page. Operations in Maryland, Northern Virginia, and West Virginia. August 1,1861-March 17, 1862. 1-1108 VOLUME VI. CHAPTER XV. Operations onthe coastsof South Carolina, Georgia, and Middle and East Florida. August 21, 1861April 11, 1862 Page. CHAPTER XVL Page. Operations in West Florida, Southern Al- abama, Soutnern Mississippi, and Lou 1-435 isiana. September 1, 1861May 12, 1862. 486-894 VOLUME VII. CHAPTER XVII Page. Operations in Kentucky, Tennessee, North Alabama, and Southwest Virginia. November 19, 1861March 4, 1862 1946 (VU Page R008 VIII CONTENTS OF PRECEDING VOLUMES. VOLUME VIII. CHAPTER XVIII. Page. Operations in Missouri, Arkansas, Kansas, and Indian Territory. November 19, 1861-April 10, 1862 ... VOLUME IX. CHAPTER XIX Page. CHAPTER XXI. Page. Operations in Southeastern Virginia. Jan- Operations in Texas, New Mexico, and uary 11March 17, 1862 ... 1-71 Arizona. February 1September 20, CHAPTER XX 1862 481-788 Operations in North Carolina. January 11-August 20, 1862 72-480 VOLUME XIN TWO PARTS. CHAPTER XXII. Operations in Kentucky, Tennessee, North Mississippi, North Alabama, and Southwest Virginia. March 4-June 10, 1862. Page. Part IReports 1-927 Part 11Correspondence, etc . VOLUME XJIN ThREE PARTS. CHAPTER XXm. The Peninsular Campaign, Virginia. March 17-September 2, 1862. Page. Part 1Reports, March 17-June 24 .. 1-1073 Part IlReports, June 25-September 2 1994 Part IllCorrespondence, etc 1691 VOLUME XIIIN THREE PARTS, AND SUPPLEMENT. CHAPTER XXIV. Operations in Northern Virginia, West Virginia, and Maryland. March 17-September 2,1862. Page. Part IReports, March 17June 25 1818 Part IlReports, June 26-September 2 1-820 Part ISUPPLEMENT. (Fitz-John Porter Court-Martial) 821-1134 Part IllCorrespondence, etc 1-966 VOLUME XIII. CHAPTER XXV. Page. Operations in Missouri, Arkansas, Kansas, the Indian Territory, and the Department of the Northwest. April 10-November 20, 1862 . .. ...... 1981 VOLU1~IE XIV. CHAPTER XXVL Page. Oper tions on the coasts of South Carolina, Georgia, and Middle and East Florida. April 12, 1862June 11, 1863 . 1lO~ VOLUME XV. CHAPTER XXVII. Operations in West Florida, Southern AIhama, Southern Mississippi (embracing all opera- Page. tions against Vicksburg, May 18-July 27,1862), and Louisiana, May 12, 1862-May 14, 1863; and operations in Texas, New Mexico, and Arizona. September 20, 1862-May 14, 1863 1-113 Page R009 CONTENTS OF PRECEDING VOLUMES. Ix VOLUME XVIIN TWO PARTS. CHAPTER XXVIII. Operations in Kentucky, Middle and East Tennessee, North Alabama, and Southwest Virginia. June 10October 31, 1862. Page. Part IReports .... 11168 Part IlCorrespondence, etc ... 11017 VOLUME XVIIIN TWO PARTS CHAPTER XXIX. Operations in West Tennessee and Northern Mississippi. June 10, 1862-January 20, 1863. Page. Part IReports 1-807 Part IlCorrespondence, etc 1-916 VOLUME XVIII. CHAPTER XXX. Page. Operations in North Carolina and Southeastern Virginia. August 20, 1862-June 3, 1863 11104 VOLUME XIXIN TWO PARTS. CHAPTER XXXL Operations in Northern Virginia, West Virginia, Maryland, and Pennsylvania. September 3-Novem ber 14, 1862. Page. Part IReports, September 320 11108 Part IlReports, September 20-November 14; Correspondence, etc., September 3-Novem ber 14 1739 VOLUME XXIN TWO PARTS. CHAPTER XXX1L Operations in Kentucky, Middle and East Tennessee, North Alabama, and Southwest Virginia. No. vember 1, 1862-January 20, 1863. Page. 1997 1516 Part IReports Part lICorrespondence, etc VOLUME XXI. CHAPTER XXXIII. Page. Operations in Northern Virginia, West Virginia, Maryland, and Pennsylvania. November 15, 1862-January 25, 1863 11152 VOLUME XXII. CHAPTER XXXIV. Operations in Missouri, Arkansas, Kansas, the Indian Territory, and the Department of the North west. November 20, 1862-December 31, 1863. Page. Part 1Reports 1-926 Part lICorrespondence, etc 1-116 Page R010 Page 1 CHAPTER XXXV. OPERATIONS IN KEINTUCKY, MiDDLE AIND EAST TENNESSEE, NORTH ALABAMA, AND SOUTHWEST VIRGINIA. January 21August 10, 1863. SU~I1VEARY O~ TIlE PRINCIPA-L EVENTS.* Jan. 21, 1~63.Capture of forage train near Murfrcesborough, Tenn. Skirmish on the Shelbyville Pike, Tenn. 2122, k63.Reconnaissance from Murfreesborough to Auburn, Liberty, and Cainsyille, Tenn. 22, 1863.Maj. Gen. U. S. Grant assumes command of all the troops iii Ar- kansas within reach of his orders. Mnj. Gen. Joseph Wheeler, C. S. Army, assigned to command of all the cavalry in Middle Tepuessee. 23, 1863.Skirmish at Carthage, Tenn. Skirmish on the Bradyville Pike, near Murfreesborough, Tcnii 24, 1863.Skirmish at Woodbury, Teun. 25, 1863.Skirmish near Mill Creek, Teun. Reconnaissance from Murfreesborough to Auburn, Teun. 28, 1863.Skirmish near Nashville, Tenn. 31Feb. 13, 1863.Expedition from Mnrfreesborough to Franklin, Tenii., etc., including skirmishes (January 31) at Unionville and Middieton, and (January 31 and February 13) at Rover. Feb. 1 2, 1863.Reconnaissance to Franklin and Brentwood, Te n. 3, 1863.Attack on Fort Donelson, Tenn. Skirmish at Cumberland Iron-Works, Tenn. 3 5, 1863.Expedition from Murfreesborough to Auburn, Liberty, and Alex. andria, Tenn. 4, 1863.Skirmish near Murfreesborough, Tenn. 7, 1863.Skirmish near Murfreesborongh, Tena. 15, 1863.Skirmishes near Auburn, Tenn. Skirmish near Cainsville, Tenn. Skirmish near Nolensville, Tenn. 16, 1863.Skirmish at Bradyville, Teun. 1720, 1863.Expedition from Murfreesborough to Liberty, Teun. 18, 1863.Maj. Gen. Thomas J. Wood, U. S. Army, temporarily commanding Twenty-first Army Corps. 18Mar. 5, 1863.Operations in Central Kentucky, including skirmishes (February 22) at Coombs Ferry, (February 24) at Stoner Bridge, and (March 2) at Slate Creek, near Mpunt Sterling. 19, 1863.Skirmish near Rover, Tenn. 20, 1863.-Skirmish on the Shelbyville Pike, Teun. Of some of the minor conflicts noted in this Summary, no circumstantial rei~crts aro on ifle. 1 R 11VOL XXIII~ PT I (1 Page 2 2 KY., MID. AND E. TENN., N. ALA., AND SW. VA. [OnAr. XXXV. Feb. 21, 1863.Reconnaissance from Franklin, on the Lewisburg, Columbia, and Carter Creek Roads, Tenn. 22, 1863.Skirmish on the Manchester Pike, Tenn. Attack on Tuscumbia, Ala. 23, 1863.Affair at Athens, Ky. Mar. 1, 1863. Skirmish at Bradyville, Tenn. Skirmish near Woodhury, Teun. 2,1863.Skirmish near Eagleville, Tenn. Skirmish near Petersburg, Teun. 3, 1863.Skirmish near Bear Creek, Tenn. 3 6, 1863.~LExpedition from Concord Church to Chapel Hill, Tenn. 3 8,1863.Expedition from Murfreesborough to Woodbury, Tenn. 4,1863.Skirmish at Unionville, Tena. 4 5, 1863.Skirmish (4th) near Franklin, Tenn., and engagement (5th) at Thompsons Station, or Spring Hill, Tenn. 4-14, 1863Expedition from Murfrcesborcugh toward Columbia, Tenn., in- cluding skirmishes (4th) at Rover and Unionville, (5th) at Chapel Hill, (9th) at Thompsons Station, and (lOthlith) at Rutherford Creek. 9, 1863.Skirmish at Hazie Green, Ky. 914, 1863.Reconnaissance from Salem to Versailles, Tenn. 10, 1863.Skirmish near Mnrfreeshorongh, Tenn. 11, 1863.Affair near Paris, Ky. 12,1863.Skirmish at Louisa, Ky. 1220, 1863.Expedition from Columbus, Ky., to Perryville, Tenn. 13, 1863.Skirmish at Rover, Tenn. 1314, 1863.Capture of conscripts near Charlotte, Tenn. 14, 1863.Skirmish at Davis Mill, Tenn. 15, 1863.Skirmish at Rover, Tenn. 16, 1863.The cavalry commands of Maj. Gens. Earl Van Dorn and Joseph Wheeler, C. S. Army, designated as Army Corps. 17, 1863.Maj. Gen. Ambrose E. Burnside, U. S. Army, resumes command of the Ninth Army Corps. 19, 1863.Maj. Gen. John G. Parke, U. S. Army, assumes command of the Ninth Army Corps. Skirmish at Mount Sterling, Ky. Skirmish at Hazle Green, Ky. Skirmish at Richland Station, Tenn. Skirmish at Spring Hill, Tenn. Skirmish at Liherty, Tenn. Skin ish near College Grove, Tenn. 1930, 1863.The First and Second Divisions, Ninth Army Corps, transferred from Newport News, Va., to Kentucky. 20, 1863.Action at Vaughts Hill, near Milton, Tenn. 21, 1S63.~-Skirmish at Salem, Teun. Skirmish near Triune, Tena. ~2. 1863 -Capture of Mount Sterling, Ky. 8k irmaish near Munfreesborough, Teu Page 3 CHAP. XXXV.~ 5 SUMMARY OF THE PRINCIPAL EVENTS. Mar. 22April 1, 1863.Pegrams expedition into Kentucky. 23, 1~~3.Skirmish near Thompsons Station, Tenn. 25, 1863.Maj. Gen. Ambrose E. Burnsicle, U. S. Army, supersedes Maj. Gen. Horatio G. Wright in command of the Department of the Ohio. Actions at Breatwood and on the Little Harpetli River, Tenn. Affair with Union gunboats near Florence, Ala.. 2526, 1863.Skirmishes near Louisa, Ky. 26, 1S63.Reconnaissance from Murfreesborough to Bradyville, Tenn. 27, 1863.Skirmish on the Woodbury Pike, Teun. , 1863.Skirmish at Madisonville, Ky. 31, 1863.Skirmish near Franklin, Tenn. 31April 1, 1863.Skirmishcs near Eagleville, Tenn. April 1, 1863.Skirmish on the Columbia Pike, Tenn. 1 8, 1863.Expedition from Murfreesborongh to Lebanon, Carthage, and Lib- erty, Teun. 2, 1863.Expedition from Readyville to Woodbnry, Tenn. Skirmisb on the Carter Creek Pike, Teun. 2 6, 1863.Reconnaissance from near Murfrecsborough to Anburn, Liberty, Snow Hill, Cherry Valley, Statesyille, Cainsville, and Lebanon, and skirmishes (April 3) at Snow Hill, or Smiths Ford, and Lib- erty, Tenii. 4, 1863.Brig. Gen. Orlando Th Willeox, U. S. Army, temporarily in com- mand of the Ninth Army Corps. Skirmish at Woodhury, Tenn. Skirmish on the Lewisbnrg Pike, Tenn. 5, 1863.Skirmish at ~avis Mill, Tenn. 6, 1863.Skirmish at Town Creek, Ala. Skirmish near Green Hill, Tenn. 7, 1863.Skirmish at Liberty, Tenn. 7li, 1863.Wheelers raid on Louisville and Nashville and Nashville and Chattanooga Railroads, including affair (April 10) at Antioch Station, Tenn. 9, 1863.Skirmish at Franklin, Teun. 10, 1863.Engagement at Franklin, Tenn. 12, 1863.Skirmish at Stewartsborongh, Tena. 13, 1863.Skirmish near Cliapel Hill, Tenn. 15, 1863.Skirmish at Piketon. Ky. 15May 8, 1863.Expeditions (April 15May 2) to Courtland, Ala, and (May 28) Tupelo, Miss. 16, 1863.Skirmish at Paris, Ky. Skirmish near Eagleville, Tenn. 18, 1863.Skirmish at Hartsville, Tenn. 19, 1863.Skirmish at Celina, Ky. Skirmish at Creclsborough, Ky. 2030, 1863.ExpeditiOn from Murfreesborough to McMinnville, Teun. 22, .1863.Skirmish at 1artsville, Tenn. 23, 1863.~Skirmish on the Shelbyville Pike, Teun. , 1863.Skirmish near Creek Head, Ky. 25, 1863.Maj. Gen. Dabucy H. Manry, C. S. Army, assumes command of the Department of East Tennessee. 26, 1863.Affair near College Grove, Tenn. Engagement at Duck River Island, or Little Rock Landing, Tena. 26May 3, 1863.Streights Raid from Tuscumbia., Ala.., toward Rome, Ga. 2t~May 12, 1863.ExpeditiOn to Monticello, Ky., and operations in 8onth- enatern Kentucky. 27, 1863.Maj. Gen. Simon B. Buckner, C. S. Army, assigned to command of the De~artm-ent of East Tennesse Page 4 4 KY., MID. AND E. TENN., N. ALA., A ND SW. VA. [CHAP. XXXV. April 27, 1863.Skirmish on Carter Creek Pike, Teun. Skirmish at Barboursyille, Ky. Skirmish a~ Negro Head Cut, near Woodburn, Ky. 29, l863.Reeonnaissance on the Chapel Hill Pike, Tenn. 29May 2, l863.Reeonnaissance from Mnrfreesborough, on Manchester Pike, Tenn. ~ 1, l863.Reeonnaissanee from Murfreesborough to Lizard, Tenn. 2, 1863.Skirmish near Thompsons Station, Tenn. ~t 6, l863.Expedition from Bowling Green, Ky., to Tennessee State Line. ~ l863.Scout from Triune to Eaglevilie, Tenn. 4, i863.Affair near Nashville, Tenn. 5, 1063.Skirmish at Rover, Tenn. , 1863.Affair at Obion Plank Road Crossing, Tenn. 9, 1863. General Joseph E. Johnston, C. S. Army, ordered to Mississippi, to assume command of forces there in the field. Affair near Caney Fork, Tenn. 12, 1863.Ma. Gen. S. B. Buckner, C. S. Army, ssumes command of the Dejinartment of East Tennessee. Recont~aissance from La Vergue, Tenn. Skirmish at Linden, Tenn. 1216, lSG3.Reeonnais~..tnce from Murfrcesborough toward Liberty and Leb- anon, Teun. 13, 1863.Skirmishes neat Woodburn and South Union, Tcnn. 17, 1863.Skirmish on the Eradyville Pike, Tenn. 2022, l863.Scont from CIarksvile, Tenn. 2122, 1863.Expedition from Mnmreesborongh to Middleton, Tcnn., and skir- mish. 22, 1863.Skirmish on Yellow Creek, Teun. 24, 1863.Skirmish at Woodbnry, Tenn. , 1863.Skirmish at Mill Springs, Ky. 25, 1863.Skirmish near Woodhury, Tenn 2631, 1863.Expedition from Corinth, Miss., tin.. florence, Ala., and skirmishes (28th) at Florence, and (29th and ~0th) at Hamburg Landing, Tean. 26June 2, l863.Scout from Fort Heiman, Ky. 2728, l863.Reconnais..saneo from Murfreesborongh, on [anchester Pike, Tenn. 28, 1863. Maj. Gen. George L. Hartsufi U. S. Army, assames command of the Twenty-third Army Corps. 29. 1863.Skirmish near Mill Springs, Ky. 30, 1863.Skirmish at Jordans Store, Tenn. Juno 2, 1863.Skirmish at Jamestown, Ky. 3, 1863.Skirmish near Marfreesborongh, Tenn. 317, 1863.Transfer of the Ninth Army Corps from Kentucky lo vicinity of Vicksbnrg, Miss. 4, 1863.Skirmish at Snow Hill, Tenn. Enga~ement at Franklin, Tenn. Operations on the Shelbyville Pike, near Murfreeslioroinkgh, Tenn. 45, 1663.Scout to Smithville, Tenn. 5, l863.Maj. Gen. John G. Parke, U. S. Army, resumes command of the Ninth Army Corps. 6, 1863.Skirmish at Waitshorough, Ky. Skirmish on the Shelbyvifle Pike, Tenn. 7, 1863.Skirmish near Edmonton, Ky. 8. 1863.Skirmish at Triune, Teun Page 5 CHAP. XXXV.] SUMMARY OF THE PRINCIPAL EVENTS. 5 June 810, 1863.Expedition from Glasgow, Ky., to Burkesville and Tennessee State Line, and skirmish (June 9) at Kettle Creek, Ky. 9, 18(5 ~. Skirmish near Triune, Teun. Affairs at Monticello and Rocky Gap, Ky. 10, 1863.Scout on Middleton and Eagleville Pikes, Tenu. 11, 1863.Action at Triune, Teun. Affair at Scottsville, Ely. Skirmish at Burnsville, Ala. 12, 1863.Scouts on Salem Pike, Teun. 13, 1863.Scout on the Manchester Pike, Tena. 1323, 1863.Everetts Raid into Eastern Kentucky. 14, 1863.Skirmish near Green Hill, Tenn. 1424, 1863.Sanders Raid in East Tennessee. 1517, 1863.Expedition to, and skirmish near, Lebanon, Tenn. 1620, 1863.Affairs in Holmes County, Ohio. 17, 1863.Hines Raid into Indiana. 19, 1863.Skirmish at Triune, Tenn. 20, 1863.Skirmish at Dixon Springs, Tena. 23July 7, 1863.The Middle Tennessee, or Tullahoma, Campaign. 24, 1863.The Department of West Virginia constituted, nnder command of Brig. Gen. Benjamin F. Kelley, U. S. Army. 28, 1863.Skirmish at Russeilville, Ky. 29, 1863.Skirmishes at Columbia and Creelsborough, Ky. Skirmish near Lexington, Tenn. July 1, 1863.Affair at Christiansburg, Ky. 2, 1863.Skirmish at mouth of Coal Run, Pike County, Ky. 2-26, 1863.Morgans Raid in Kentucky, Indiana, and Ohio. 3-11, 1863.Expedition from Beaver Creek, Ky., into Southwestern Virginia, and skirmishes (6th) at Pond Creek, Ky., and (7th) Gladesville, Va. 5, 1863.Skirmish at Yellow Creek, Tenn. Skirmish at Woodburn, Ky. - Skirmish at Franklin, Ky. 7, 1863.Skirmish near Cummings Ferry, Ky. 10, 1863.Skirmish on Martin Creek, Ky. Capture of outpost at Union City, Tenn. 1114, 1863.Reconnaissance from Cowan to Anderson, Tenn. 1322, 1863.Expedition to Huntsville, Ala. 15, 1863.Skirmish at Pulaski, V eun. 1516,. 1863.Occupation of Hickman, Ky. 1863.Expedition to Columbia and Centreville, Tenn. 17, 1863.Skirmish on Stones River, Tenn. 19, 1863. Lient. Gen. Daniel H. Hill, C. S. Army, assigned to command of the Second Army Corps, relieving Lieut. Gen. William J. Hardee. 2227, 1863.Expedition from Clinton, Ky., in pursuit of Billies, Forrests, and Newsoms cavalry. , 1863.Scout in Sequatchie Valley, Tenn. 25, 1863.The Department of East Tennessee merged into Department of Tennessee, nnder command of General Braxton Bragg, C. S. Army. Skirmish near New Hope Station, Ely. 25Aug. 6, 1863.Scotts Raid in Eastern Kentucky. 27, 1863.Attack on steamer Paint Rock, near Bridgeport, Ala. 29, 1863.Skirmish near Bridgeport, Ala. Skirmish near Fort Donelson, Tena Page 6 6 KY., MID. AND E. TENN., N. ALA., AND SW. VA. [CHAP. XXXV. Aug. 1, 1863.Expedition from Columbus to Hickman, Ky. 3 8, 1863.The Ninth Army Corps re-embarks at Haynes Bluft; Miss., for service in Kentucky, etc. 4 5, 1863.Reconnaissance to Rock Island Ferry, Tenn. 9, 1863.Skirmish at Sparta, Tenn. GENERAL REPORTS. No. 1.Maj. Gen. Henry W. Halleek, General-in-Chief; U. S. Army, of operations in the Departments of the Ohio and of the Cumberland, Febrnary 3Jnly 26, 1863. No. 2.Maj. Gen. Ambrose E. Burnsidc, U. S. Army, commanding Department of the Ohio, of operationa March 25Augnst 10, 1863. No. 1. Report of ]JIaj. Gen. Henry W. Halleck, General-in- Chief, U. S. Army, of operations in the Departments of the Ohio and of the Cwnberland, February 3July 26, 1863. HEADQUARTERS OF THE ARMY, Washington, D. (1., November 15, 1863. SiR: In compliance with your orders, I submit the following summary of military operations since my last annual report: * * * * * * * DEPARTMENT OF THE OHIO. On March 30, Brigadier-General Gilimore engaged and defeated ~ large rebel force, under General [John] Pegram, near Somerset, Ky. Our loss in killed, wounded, and missing was only 30; that of the enemy estimated at 500. In June the rebels attempted a raid into Harrison County, Indiana, but were driven back with the loss of 53 prisoners. About the same time Colonel Sanders, with two pieces of artillery, the First Tennessee Cavalry, and some detachments crom General Car- ter5 command, destroyed the railroad near Knoxville, and the bridges at Slate Creek, Strawberry Plains, and Mossy Creek; captured tefi pieces of artillery, one thousand stand of arms, and 500 prisoners. Our loss was 1 killed, 2 wounded, and a few stragglers. About the time of Lees invasion of Pennsylvania, the rebel General John II. Morgan, with a large guerrilla band, attempted a raid into Indiana and Ohio, intending, probably, to recross the Ohio River into West Yirginia or Pennsylvania, and join Lees army. His force con- sisted of six pieces of artillery and some 3,000 cavalry. This band of robbers and murderers destroyed much public and private property, and killed a number of the inhabitants of the country through which they passed, but was finally completely destroyed, nearly every man being killed or taken prisoner. * * * * * * * DEPARTMENT OF THE CUT~IBERLAND. * * * * * * * After the battle of Murfreesborough, or Stones River, the enemy took position at Shelbyville and Tullahonia, and the winter and spring were passed in raids and unimportant skirmishes. * The First Division arrived at Cincinnati Augnst 12; the Second Division Angnst 20 Page 7 CHAP. XXXV.J GENERAL REPORTS. 7 On the 3d of February, Generals Wheele~ Forrest, and Wharton invested Fort Donelson, and demanded its capitulation. This was promptly refused by its commander, Colonel. Harding. After an obsti- nate attack, which lasted all day, the rebels retired, with an estimated loss of 900. Our loss in the fort was 13 killed and 51 wounded. On the 4th of March, Colonel Coburn, with 1,845 men, attempted a reconnaissance from Franklin toward Springfield, encountering in his way Van Dorns rebel column, estimated at 7,500. The enemy retreated, drawing Colonel Coburn into a gorge, where he was surrounded, and nearly all his force captured. Our loss was 1,406; that of the enemy 150 killed and 450 wounded. On the 20th of March, Colonel Hall, while on a reconnaissance, en- countered and defeated the rebel General Morgan with a force of 3,000 or 4,000. Our loss was 55. The enemy left 63 on the field, but carried off his wounded, estimated at 300. On the 25th of March, the rebel General Forrest made a cavalry raid on the Nashville and Columbia Railroad, burning the bridge, and cap- turing Colonel Bloodgoods command at Breutwood. General Green Clay Smith, arriving opportunely with about 600 cavalry, attacked the enemy in rear, and recovered a large portion of the property captured at Breutwood, pursuing the rebels to the Little Harpeth, where they were re-enforced. His loss in this attack was 4 killed, 19 wounded, and 4 missing. On the 10th of April, a guerilla force attacked a train near La Yergne, guarded by 40 men. The ears were destroyed, and nearly half of the guard killed and wounded. At the same time Fan Dorn, with a large mounted force, attacked Franklin~ but was repulsed by Major-General Granger, with a loss of 19 killed, 35 wounded left on the field, and 48 prisoners. Maj. Gen. Joseph J. Reynolds made a raid npon the Manchester and McMinnville Railroad, destroying depots, rolling stock, supplies, and other property, and capturing 180 prisoners. Colonel Streight, with about 1,600 men, including re-enforcements received from General Dodge at Tuscumbia, started on a raid into Georgia, to cut the enemys communications. After heavy losses in skirmishes with Forrests cavalry, and when near his destination, he was forced to surrender. On the 22d of May, Major-General Stanley made a raid upon Middle- ton, capturing 80 prisoners, 300 horses, 600 stand of arms, and other property. On the 4th of June, the rebel Gener 1 Forrest made a raid upon Frank- lin, and on the 11th attacked Triune. His losses in these unsuccessful skirmishes were estimated at over 100, while ours were only 17 killed and wounded. While General Grant was operating before Yicksburg, information, deemed reliable, was received from captured i-ebel official correspond- ence that large detachments were being drawn from Braggs army to re-enforce Johnston in Mississippi. Re-enforceinents were sent to Gen- eral Grant from other armies in the West, but General Rosecrans army was left intact, in order that he might take advantage of Braggs dimin- ished numbers and drive him back into Georgia, and thus rescue loyal East Tennessee from the hands of the rebels, an object which the Gov- ernment has kept constantly in view from the beginning of the war. I therefore urged General Rosecrans to take advantage of this oppor- tunity to carry out his long-projected movement, informing him that General Burnside would co-operate with his force, moving from Ken Page 8 8 KY., M~. AND E. TENN., N. ALA., AND SW. VA. [Cnx~. XXXV tricky to East Tennessee. For various reasons he preferred to postpone his movement until the termination of the siege of Yicksbnrg. In order to avoid any misunderstanding of the orders given to General iRosecrans on this subject, I submit the following correspondence: Maj. Gen. 11. W. HALLEcK, MURFREESBOROUGH, TENN., June 11, 1863. General-i -Chief: Your dispatch of to-day received.* You remember I gave you, as a necessary con- dition of success, an adequate cavalry force. Since that time I have not lost a mo- ment in mounting our dismounted cavalry as fast as we could get hprses. Not more than 300 remain to be mounted. The Fifth Iowa, ordered up from Donelson, arrived to-day. The First Wisconsin ~vill be here by Saturday. My preliminary infantry movements have nearly all been completed, and I am preparing to strike a blow that will tell; but, to show you how differently things are viewed here, I called on my corps and division commanders and generals of cavalry for answers, in writing, to these questions: 1st. From your best information, do you think the enemy materially weakened in our front? 2d. Do you think this army can advance, at this time, with reasonable prospect of fighting a great and successful battle? 3d. Do you think an advance advisable at this time? To the first, eleven answered no; six yes, to the extent of 10,000. To the second, four yes, with donbts; thirteen no. To the third, not one yes; seventeen no. Not one thinks an advance advisable until Vicksburgs fate is determined. Admit- ting these officers to have a reasonable share of military sagacity, courage, and pa. triotism, you perceivethat there are graver and stronger reasons than probably appear at Washington for the attitude of this army. I therefore counsel caution and patience at headquarters. Better wait a little to get all we can ready to insure the best results, if by so doing we, per force of Providence, observe a great military maxim, not to risk two great and decisive battles at the same time. We might have cause to be thank- ful for it; at all events, you see that, to expect success, I must have such thorough grounds that when I say forward, my word will inspire conviction and confidence, where both are now wanting. I should like to have your suggestion. W. S~ ROSECRANS, Major-General. WASHINGTON, June 12, 1863. Major-General ROSEcRANS, Murfreesborough, Tenn.: GENERAL: Your telegram of yesterday is justreceived. I do not understand your application of the military maxim not to fight two great battles at the same time. It will apply to a single army, but not to two armies acting independently of each other. Johnston and Bragg are acting on interior lines between you and Grant, and it is for their interest, not ours, that they should fight at different times, so as to use the same force against both of you. It is for our in- terest to fight them, if possible, while divided. If you are not strong enough to fight Bragg with a part of his troops absent, you will not be able to fight him after the affair at Vicksbnrg is over and his troops return to your front. There is another military maxim, that councils of war never fight. If you say that you are not prepared to fight Bragg, I shall not order you to do so, for the responsibility of fighting or refusing to fight at a particular time or place must rest upon the general in immediate command. It cannot be shared by a council of war, nor will the authorities here make you fighI~ against your will. You ask me to counsel them caution and patience. I have done so very often; but after five or six months of inactivity, with your force all the time diminishing, and no hope of any immediate increase, you must not be surprised that their patience is pretty well exhausted. If you do not deem it prudent to risk a general battle with Bragg, why can you not harass him, or make such demonstrations as to prevent his sending more re- enforcements to Johnston? I do not write this in a spirit of fault-finding, but to assure you that the prolonged inactivity of so large an army in the field is causing much complaint and dissatis ac- tion, not only in Washington, but throughout the country. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, General-in-Chief. ~See Addenda, p. 10 Page 9 CuAr. XXXV.] GENERAL REPOIITS. 9 hEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE CUMBERLAND, Aiurfreesborongh, June 21, 1~63. Maj. Gee. IL W. HALLECK, General-in-Chief: GENEJIAL: In your favor of the 12th instant you say you do not see how the m~xiia of cot fighting two great battles at the same time applies to the case of this army and Grants. Looking at the matter practically, we and our opposing forces are so widely sepa- rated tbat for Bragg to materially aid Johnston he must abandon our front substan- tially, and thea we can move to our ultimate work with more rapidity and less wa to of material on natural obstacles. If Grant is defeated, both forces will come here, and tbcn we ought to be near our base. The same maxim that forbids, as you take it, a single army fighting two great battles at the same time (by the way, a very awkward thing to do), would forbid this nations eugagiu~, all its forces in the great West at the same time, so as to leave it without a single reserve to stem the current of possible disaster. This is, I think, sustained by high military and political considerations. We ought to fight here if we have a strong prospect of winning a decisive battle over tbe opposing force, and upon this ground I shall act. I shall be careful not to risk our last reserve without strong grounds to expect success. W. S. ROSECRANS, Major- General. When General Rosecrans finally determined to advance, he was per- mitted to select, without restriction, his own line of operation by which to reach Chattanooga, only being directed to connect his left, so far as practicable, with the army of General Bnrnside, and to report daily by telegraph his movements till he crossed the Tennessee River. General Burnside was also ordered to connect his right as much as possible with General iRosecrans left; so that if the enemy shonid concentrate upon either army, the other could move to its assistance. General Rosecrans on the 25th of June commenced a forward move- ment upon the enemy, well intrenched at Tullahoma, covered in front by the defiles of Duck River, a deep, narrow stream, with few fords or bridges, and a rough, rocky range of hills, which divides the barrens from the lower level of Middle Tennessee. Braggs main force occupied a strong position north of Duck River from Shelbyville, which was for- tified, to Wartrace, all the gaps on the roads leading thereto being held in force. General Rosecrans determined to render useless the rebel intrench. ments by turning their right and moving on their communications at the railroad bridge on Elk River, thus compelling a battle on our own ground, or driving them on a disadvantageous line of retreat. By ad- inirable combined movements he deceived the enemy by a threatened advance in force on their left at Shelbyville, while the mass of his army in reality seized Hoovers, Liberty, and the other gaps by hard fighting, and moved on Manchester, thus turning the right of the enemys de- fenses of Duck River and directly threatening Bragg, who was com- pelled to fall back to Tullahoma, hotly pursued by Granger, who had brilliantly carried Shelbyville on their left. Dispositions were immedi- ately made to turn Tullahoma and fall upon the enemy~s rear, but Bragg abandoned to us his intrenched camp and rapidly fell back toward Bridgeport, Ala. In the words of General Rosecrans official report: Thus ended a nine days campaign, which drove the enemy from two fortified posi- tions and gave us possession of Middle Tennessee, conducted in one of tbe most extra- ordinary rains ever known in Tennessee at that period of the year, over a soil that became almost a quicksand. Our operations were retarded thirty-six hours at Iloovers Gap and sixty hours at and in front of Winchester, wbich alone prevented us from getting possession of his communications and forcing the enemy to a very disastrous battle. These results were far more successful than was anticipated, and could only have been obtained by a surprise as to the direction and force of our movements Page 10 10 KY., MID. AND E. TENN., N. ALA., AND SW. VA. [CHAP. XXXV. Our losses in these operations were 85 killed, 462 wounded, and 13 missing, making in all 560. Tl~e killed and wounded of the enemy is unknown, but we took 1,634 prisoners, of which 59 were commissioned officers. We captured six pieces of artillery, many small-arms, considerable camp equipage, and large quantities of commissary and quartermasters stores. After the expulsion of his army from Middle Tennessee, Bragg re- treated across the Cumberland Mountains and Tennessee River upon Chattanooga, which place was fortified, and defensive works constructed at the crossings of the river as far up as Blythes Ferry.* * * * * * Very respectfully, your obedient servant, H. W. HALLECK, General-in. Chief Hon. E. M. STANTON, Secretary of War. ADD R ND A. WAiL DEPARTMENT, Major-General RoSECRANS, Washington, June Il, 18633 p. m. Miurfreesborough, Tenn.: I deem it my duty to repeat to you the great dissatisfaction that is felt here at your inactivity. There seems to be no doubt that a part of Braggs force has gone to Johnston. H. W. HALLECK, General-in- Chief. WAR DEPARTMENT, Major-General RoSEORANS, Washington, June 16, 18632 p. m. ]Jliurfreesborough, Tenn.: Is it your intention to make an immediate movement forward? A definite answer, yes or no, is required. H. W. HALLECK, General-in. Chief. MURFREESBOROUGH, TENN., June 16, 18636.30 p. m. Maj. Gen. H. W. HALLECK, General-in- Chief: In reply to your inquiry, if immediate means to-night or to-morrow, no. If it means as soon as all things are ready, say five days, yes. W. S. ROSECRANS, Major- General. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF TUE CUMBERLAND, June 24, 18632.10 a. m. Major-General HALLECK, General-in- Chief: The army begins to move at 3 oclock this morning. W. S. ROSECRANS, Major- General. Remainder of this report does not relate to operations covered by this volume Page 11 (JaAr. XXXV.] GENERAL REPORTS. 11 No. 2. Report of Maj. Gem. Ambrose B. Buruside, U. S. Army, commanding De partment of the Ohio, of operations March 25August 10, 1863. NEW YORK, November 13, 1865. Sm: I have the honor to submit the following report of the operations of the Department of the Ohio during the time I was in command: On the 16th of March, 1863, I received orders to proceed to Cincin- nati, Ohio, and relieve Maj. Gen. II. G. Wright, then in command of the department. I reached Cincinnati on the 23d of March, and assumed command on the 25th. The limits of the department embraced the States of Indiana, Ohio, Michigan, Illinois, and Kentucky, except that part west of the Tennessee River and all of East Tennessee that we might at any time occupy. The line occupied by the forces at that time commenced at the month of the Big Sandy River, ran up to Louisa Court-House, across to Irvine, on the Kentucky River, down to Somerset, near the Cumberland River, along and near to the Cumberland River, and the State line to Franklin; thence to llopkinsville and the Cumberland River, and down to the mouth of the river. The troops were necessarily in small force at any one point on the line, as there were only about * effective troops in the department, out of which guards had to be taken for the Louis- ville and Nashville Railroad (which supplied General Rosecrans army) and the other railroads in the State of Kentucky. The line occupied by the troops was being constantly disturbed by the necessity of moving troops from point to point, to meet the frequent attacks of the enemys cavalry, and of guerrillas. At the time I assumed command (the 25th of March), General Pegram, with a formidable cavalry force, had marched from East Tennessee, across the Cumberland River, driving our forces across the Kentucky River at Hickmans Bridge, and taken possession of Danville, Camp Dick Robinson, and that vicinity. The State of Kentucky was at this time divided into three military districts. The Western, under command of Brig. Gen. J. T. Boyle, with headquarters at Louisville; the Central, under Brig. Gen. Q. A. Gill- more, with headquarters at Lexington, and the Eastern, under Brig. - Gen. Julius White, with headquarters at Louisa. On the 26th instant, I directed Generals Gillmore and Boyle to con- centrate all their available forces at Hickmans Bridge and Lebanon, respectively, and to make a simultaneous attack upon Pegram~s forces, which were then at and in the neighborhood of Danville. General Gilimore crossed the Kentucky River at Hickmans Bridge on the 28th, and drove the enemy across Dicks River; the latter burned the bridges over the river to prevent pursuit. The same day a portion of General Boyles forces, under Brig. Gen. M. D. Manson, occupied Danville, and moved down through Hustonvilie to co-operate with General Gilimore in the pursnit of Pegram, who was retreating to the Cumberland River. On the 29th, he made a stand at Somerset, having selected a very strong position, which was well defended by six pieces of his artillery. General Gillmore formed his troops, stormed the position at once, and drove the enemy in confusion to the river with a loss to him of over 300, and to our people of only 30. Night stopped farther pursuit, and the en- emy escaped across the river. His command, on entering the State, con- sisted of about 2,600 men, and his total loss before recrossing the river Blank in the original Page 12 12 KY., MID. AND E. TENN., N. ALA., AND SW. VA. [OaAr. XXXV. was over 500 men, besides nearly all the cattle and other plunder which he had collected from the citizens. Central Kentucky was now free from the enemy, and our line was reestablished on the Cumberland River. When I was ordered to the department, two divisions of the Ninth Corps (Generals Wilicoxs and Sturgis) were ordeied from Newport News to report to me in Cincinnati. The Third (General Getty) was retained in General Dixs department. These troops commenced to arrive at Cincinnati and Louisville early in April, and were ordered to the front as rapidly as possible. On April 10, General Willeox took command of the Central District, relieving General Gillmore, who had applied for leave of absence. It may be well to mention here that, before the expiration of his leave, General Gillmore was ordered on other duty, thus depriving the depa4. ment of the services of a valuable officer. 1 now ordered the concentration bf all the troops as rapidly as possi. ble at London, Somerset, Liberty, and Glasgow; also at Louisa, in the Eastern District, and near Tompkinsville, in the Western. Directions were given to Col. J. II. Simpson. chief engineer, to fortify points along the railroads, with a view to holding them with a minimum force. I omitted to mention that Maj. Gen. II. G. Wright was ordered to the command of the Western District after I relieved him, which command he exercised until near the last of April, after which the command was resumed by General Boyle. Nothing of importance occurred along the lines during the month of April. Skirmishing with the enemys cavalry w~s almost of daily oc- currence, but no decisive results followed, except the destruction of the supplies for the enemy at Celina, on the Cumberland. Soon after I took command, I became very anxious in the contempla- tion of the great discontent and despondency on the part of many per- sons occasioned by the disloyal politicians, who at that time were doing so much harm in the Northwest. Letters were being sent into the army for the purpose of creating discontent among the soldiers, newsp apers were full of treasonable expressions, and large public meetings were held, at which our Government authorities and onr gallant soldiers in the field were openly and loudly denounced for their efforts to suppress the rebellion. Our military prisons were fuli of persons arrested for uttering disloyal sentiments tind committing disloyal acts. It became clef r to me that this could only be stopped by the punishment of the leading men in these treasonable designs, and I accordingly ordered the arrest of the Hon. C. L. Yallandigham, who was one of the most prominent of that class. The arrest was made on the morning of the 6th of May, at Dayton, Ohio. The history of his trial, conviction, and banishment are so well known as to need no further mention in this report. It is enough to say that the effect throughout the department was beneficial, and it was found necessary to make but few other arrests of like char- acter. Early in May, the troops in Kentucky were, by authority from Wash- ington, organized into the Twenty-third Army Corps, and General George L. llartsuff was placed in command, and I at once commenced to make dispositions preparatory to moving into East Tennessee. About the same time General White was directed to organize an expe- dition to move upon the enemy in Western Virginia, by way of Pound Gap. On the 3d of June, I left Cincinnati, to take command of the troops in person which were organizing for the purpose of going to East Ten- nessee. This command was composed of the two divisions of the Nint Page 13 OnAr. XXXV.] 13 GENERAL REPORTS. Corps, nuder General Willeox, and a portion of the Twenty-third Corps, under General Hartsuff. On my arrival at Lexington, I received an order to send the Ninth Corps to General Grant, and to hold my present line with the remaining troops. Upon receipt of this order, I at once returned to Cincinnati. The troops of the Ninth Corps were rapidly dispatched to General Grant, under command of Maj. Gen. John G. Parke, where they rendered most effective service. About this time I received a proposition from General Willeox to send a raiding party, under Col. W. P. Sanders, into East Tennessee. I approved of his proposition, and directed him to make the necessary preparations, but before it was started some trouble with some disloyal people in Indiana rendered it necessary to transfer General Wilicox to the command of that district, where he performed the most difficult services to the satisfaction of the State authorities and myself. General llartsuff was now in chief command of the troops in Kentucky, with General S. D. Sturgis as chief of cavalry. General White was ordered to move with his expedition at about the same time with Colonel Sanders; and General S. P. Carter was directed to cross the Cumberland and move in the direction of Monticello, with a view to attracting the attention of the enemy from Colonel Sanders movements. Soon after this, General Lees army threatened the inva- sion of Maryland, and the enemy on all portions of our line was partic- ularly active. A raiding party reached as far as Maysville, but was afterward broken to pieces by Colonel [J. F.] De Courcy with four regiments of cavalry. Colonel Sanders continued his movement; reached the Tennessee Railroad at London; moved up the road, destroying portions of it; threatened Knoxville, and destroyed the railroad bridge at Strawberry Plains, one of the most important on the road. He captured ten pieces of artillery, some 400 prisoners, and destroyed a vast amount of public stores. His loss was only 1 killed, 2 wounded, and a few stragglers taken prisoners. This was one of the boldest raids of the war. He re- turned to our lines the 20th of June. Owing to the extreme roughness of the country, and the almost impassable condition of the roads over which General White had to pass, he did not accomplish as much as ~~.flolonel Sanders, but his movements drew the attention of the enemy from Sanders, as did the movement of General C~i-rter in the direction of Monticello for the same purpose. Preparations were still continued, in the hope of being able to spare sufficient force to go into East Tennessee, but they were disturbed by the approach of the rebel General John II. Morgan, with a large cavalry force, which he had crossed at and near Burkesville, on the Cumber- land River, about the 1st of July, and was moving in the direction of Columbia. Immediate dispositions of all the troops were made, with a view to checking the advance of the enemy. He moved with great rapidity, destroying railroads and telegraph lines, so that our nicans of ascer- taining his movements were necessarily much restricted. General Hartsuff at once ordered all his available forces in pursuit. Morgans command passed through Columbia, and moved in direction of Lebanon, reaching Green River on the 4th of July, where he was met by Colonel [0. H.] Moore, with four companies of the Twenty-fifth Mich- igan, who were guarding the ford. He demanded the surrender of this force, but Moore replied that the 4th day of July was not the day for United States troops to surrender. Soon after, the enemy charged his position, but were repulsed with great loss Page 14 14 KY., MID. AND E. TENN., N. ALA., AND SW. YA. [CHAr. XXXV. Morgan then passed round this position, and moved to Lebanon, where he captured a force nnder command of Colonel Hanson, after a desper- ate fight. He then passed on in the direction of Louisville, 1)ut, before reaching that place, turned to the left and struck the Ohio River, where he seized some steamers and crossed iuto Indiana before our forces could overtake him. Generals Hobson, Jud ah, and Carter, and Colonel Wolford were now in pursuit, with parts of their divisions. Our forces labored under great disadvantage, as Morgan seized all the horses on the route over which he passed, thus securing to his com- inand fresh animals, while our cavalry was compelled to pursue with scarcely any time for rest or feed. As soon as possible the pursuing forces were crossed into Jndiana. The enemy passed through the southern portions of Indiana and Ohio without serious resistance, until he reached the Ohio River, near Buffingtou Island. Our cavalry, under General ilobson, was kept in constant pursuit, and all necessary dispo- sitions were made of the militia forces of Indiana and Ohio to prevent his striking important points and destroying depots of supplies. Gen- eral Boyle was directed to send General Judahs command up the Ohio River by steamers to Portsmouth, thence up the Scioto, and prevent the enemy from crossing until ilobsons force could overtake him. The gunboats, under Captain [Le Roy] Fitch, patrolled the Ohio River, to prevent the crossing into Kentucky. He succeeded, however, in crossing the Scioto before Judahs forces got into position. When he approached the river at Buffington Island, where he intended to cross, our forces were close upon him, and the gunboats were in positions to prevent his crossing. He was forced to fight, and the combined forces, under Generals ilobson and Judah, together with the gunboats under Captain Fitch, succeeded in capturing at least two-thirds of his forces, and all his artillery and supplies. Morgan himself escaped, and turned back from the river with the remnant of his men, but was closely fol. lowed by General Shackelford, with about 500 men of ilobsons com- mand. Many of our troops, who had been in pursuit, were obliged to stop in Cincinnati, on account of the breaking down of their horses. These men were remounted upon fresh horses and formed into a bat- talion under Major Rue, of the Ninth Kentucky Cavalry, and added to the battalion of Major Way, of the Eighth [Ninth] Michigan. As soon as it was ascertained which direction Morgan had taken, these battalions were placed on the cars and sent over the Columbus and Pittsburgh Railroad, with the understanding that they would be directed by telegraph as to the place of their debarkation, for the pur- pose of heading Morgan off. By the assistance of Governor Tod, of Ohio, we succeeded iu getting these troops into proper positions, where they were unloaded, and checked Morgan near Salineville, not far from Steubenville. Soon after which General Shackelford came up, when Morgan surrendered the re- mainder of his command. The prisoners, together with those previously captured; in all about 3,000, were taken to Cincinnati; after which I ordered the officers to be sent to Johnsons Island and the privates to Camps Chase and Morton. Soon after the officers were started, I received an order by telegraph from General Halleck, directing that the officers be sent to the peniten- tiaries at Columbus and Pittsburgh. The loss of Morgans command, which came to Kentucky 4,000 strong, was a heavy blow to the rebellion, and the brave men who followed him so persistently deserve the thanks of their country. While these forces were absent from Kentucky in pursuit of Morgan Page 15 CHAr. XXXV.] CAPTURE OF TRAIN NEAR MURPREESBOROUGH. 15 a considerable force of rebel cavalry under Colonel [John S.] Scott came into the State from East Tennessee, crossed the Kentucky River, and approached the Ohio, evidently with a view of assisting Morgan on his return. They were soon driven out of the State, with heavy loss, by the cavalry under Colonel Sanders that had returned from the pursuit of Morgan.* * * * * * * * I have the honor to be, very respectfully, your obedient servant, A. E. BURNSIDE, Late llfajor-Generat. ADJUTANT-GENERAL U. S. ARMY, Washington, D. 0. JANUARY 21, 1863.Capture of forage train near Murfreesborough, Teun. REPORTS. No. 1.Edward Potter, fotage-master, U. S. service. No. 2.General Braxton Bragg, C. S. Army. No. 1. Report of Edward Potter, forage-master, U. S. service. IIDQRS. SECOND BRIGADE, FIFTH DIVISIoN, CENTER, ]Jliurfreesborough, January 27, 1863. COLONEL: I have the honor to make the following report to you of the capture of the forage train from your command on the 21st instant: We left camp at your quarters shortly after daylight of the morning of the 21st, with 34 wagons and 128 men, in charge of Capt. B. W. Can- field, of One hundred and fifth Regiment Ohio Volunteer Infantry, Company E, the train in the advance, until formed on the Liberty pike, about 14~ miles from your quarters. Before forming on the pike, I passed a large train forming from General Woods division, and formed our train in the advance of them, in charge oF Mr. Campbell, wagon- master of the Eightieth Illinois Regiment, with instructions to halt the train as soon as would give the large train room to form in our rear, while I returned to get two wagons of ours which had become fastened in with the large train, and to see at what time their train would be ready to move. The officer in charge told me it was ready then, but the guard was not quite ready, but would be in a very few moments. I then said I would move on our train to keep out of his way, as they would shortly overtake me. To which he replied, Very well. On my reaching the train, I found it halted, and the men in the wag- ons. They were placed there by order of Captain Canfield. I said to him it was not in order for the men to ride, and he replied that the men had a fast walk to get up, and he would let them ride to the out- post pickets, and I ordered the drivers to move on, taking the advance myself, with four orderlies, one wagon-master, and one lieutenant from * Remainder of this report will be printed in Series I, Vol. XXX Page 16 16 KY., MID. AND E. TENN., N. ALA., AND SW. VA. [CHAP. XXXV. the Nineteenth Indiana Battery. We moved about one-fourth of a mile in the advance of the teams, halting and making inquiries of all the pickets and vedettes until I arrived at the point where we were attacked, which I was told was the last vedette post. At this point the wagon train was about onefourth of a mile in our rear, and a short distance in the advance of me were some 30 men in our uniform, whom I sup. posed to be our pickets. As I was nuder the captain, I dismounted to ask him to form his men in the order of marching, and permitted the horsemen to advance within 40 feet of me, when they demanded my surrender. At this moment I discovered our surprise, and ordered a halt of the teams and the men to form in line on the left of the wagons, and replied to the order to surrender by firing five shots, killing 3 men, and re- ceiving two volleys from them, when I engaged Colonel [J. B.] Hutche- son with my saber, disarming him, when I was overpowered by num- bers, and surrendered my saber to Colonel ilutcheson. While this was going on, the firin~ had commenced at the wagons, about 30 rods from me, in the rear, but how they were making of it I could not tell until I saw the teams advancing on the road where I was held a prisoner, and was told that every man was taken. We had 1 man slightly wounded in the hand. I saw 5 of Morgans men taken from our wagon, dead, at Liberty, and 3 wounded men on horseback. We made a forced march to Smithville, and halted for one hour, and then started for Mc- Minuville in the captured wagons. I made my escape from them about 2 miles from MeMiunville, about eighteen hours after our capture, and arrived at your quarters on the evening of the 26th instant. Our train was out for rough feed where I had previously found it, about 7 miles from Murfreesborough, and 1 mile to the left of the pike where we were captured. About 80 rods from where our capture was made we passed 2 men, who said they were patrols, and that everything wa~ all right in front. EDWARD POTTER. Col. A. S. HALL, Gommanding Second Brigade, Fifth Division, Center. No. 2. Report of General Braxton Bragg, C. S. Army. TULLAHOMA, January 22, 1863. (Received at Richmond, Va., January 23, 1863.) Lieutenant-Colonel [J. B.] ilutcheson, with 100 men, Morgans cav- alry, made a dash yesterday upon the enemys camp at Murfreesborough, and captured and brou_ ht off safely 150 prisoners and 30 wagons. Major [D. W.] ilolman (Wheelers cavalry) since last report captured and destroyed another large transport on Cumberland loaded with sub- sistence. The enemy has made no show of an advance from Murfrees- borough. BRAXTOK BRAGG, General S. COOPER, General, Commanding. Adjutant and Inspector General Page 17 CHAP. XXXV.] RECONNAISSANCE TO AUBURN, LIBERTY, ETC. 17 JANUARY 2122,1863.Reconnaissance from Blurfreesborough to Auburn, Liberty, and Cainsville, Tenn. Report of Capt. Elmer Otis, Fourth U. S. Cavalry, commanding brigade. HEADQUARTERS ThIRD CAVALRY BRIGADE, DEPARTMENT OF TIlE CUMBERLAND, January 22, 1863. siR: I have the honor to report that yesterday at 12 m. I received orders to move with a strong cavalry force on the Liberty pike, in order to recapture a train. At 12.50 oclock I was on the Liberty pike, 4 miles from Murfreesborough, with all the force that I could raise in the brigade, five companies being absent on picket. The brigade train was also absent for forage, with a strong escort. This left me with only about 350 men. With these I proceeded on the Liberty pike as rap- idly as possible, arriving at Auburn, a distance of 19 miles, at 4.30. I found, from all reports, that the captured wagons had passed about 12 m. At Auburn I found 3 pickets, whom I caused to be captured, and some more proceeding on the Woodbury road. I sent a small party after them; they killed 2, captured 4, and 2 escaped. From these pris- ouers I learned that a force of from 600 to 800 cavalry were about 3 miles from Auburn, on the Woodbury road, mostly Basil [W.] Dukes men. The information I had was corroborated from several sources. There was also reported a brigade of cavalry at Woodbury, 10 miles from Auburn, numbers not reported. I proceeded on to Liberty, in hopes that the wagon train captured would halt there, but found it passe(l Liberty at 2 p. in., and, when last heard from, was 5 miles from there, on the Smithville pike, still going at a slow trot. It had become very (lark some 3 or 4 miles from Liberty, so dark that a man could not be distinguished a distance of five steps, and I had to feel my way very carefully. About half way from Auburn to Liberty, the advance guard, under Captain [Joseph H.] Blackburn, First [Middle] Tennessee Cay. alry, captured a picket of a company stationed about 14 miles from the road, nnmbering 12 men; also a spy of the enemy, and some five or six noted secessionists in the employ of the enemy. These men were all turned over to the Second East Tennessee Cavalry, who were forming the rear guard, and, although I gave the strictest orders, they allowed six or seven of the most noted characters to escape. I am causing a strict investigation to be made in reference to it. From Liberty I proceeded to within 14 miles of Statesyille, arriving there at 12.30 a. m. on the 22d, where I fed and rested, and proceeded, at 5 a. in., to Cainsville, and thence to this camp, arriving at 12.30 p. m. Yesterday I marched 40 miles, to-day 24, making, in twenty-four hours, 64 miles. At Liberty I drove their pickets three different times, but it was so dark that a foe could not be distinguished from a friend, and I was therefore unable to capture them. It was so dark that I deemed it im- possible to pursue farther, and, with the heavy force near our rear, I deemed it prudent to return by Sta~esville and Cainsville. Had I had a stronger force, I should have gone at least to Smithville, but, with my small force, it would have been hazarding the safety of the whole com- mand. Eighteen prisoners were seut to the provost-marshal-general. Some horses were captured, which were used to mount men with broken-down 2 Il RYOL XXIII, PT Page 18 18 KY., MID. AND E. TENN., N. ALA., AND SW. VA. [CHAP. XXXV. horses. As soon as I obtain a full report of them they will be sent to the division qnartermaster for disposal. I forward report of Colonel [W. It.] Cook, Second East Tennessee Cay- alry.* T am, sir, Very respectfully, your obedient servant, ELMEIt OTIS, commanding Third Cavalry Brigade. Captain [WILLIAM II.] SINCLAIR, A. A. A. U., Cavalry Corps, Department of tke Cumberland. JANUARY 24, 1863.Skirmish at Woodbury, Tenn. REPORTS. No. 1.Col. William Grose, Thirty-sixth Indiana Infantry, commanding brigade. No. 2.Col. John T. Wilder, Seventeenth Indiana Infantry, commanding brigade. No. 1. Report of Col. William Grose, Thirty-sixth Indiana Infantry, command ing brigade. HDQRs. THIRD BRIGADE, SECOND DIVISION, LEFT WING, Murfreesborough, Tenn., January 28, 1863. SIR: I have the honor to report the part this brigade took in the engagement at Woodhury, this State, on the 24th instant. According to orders, I left camp near Murfreesborough at 4 p. m. on the 23d, with the Sixth Ohio, Colonel [A. C.] Christopher; Twenty-third Kentucky, Major [T. II.] llamrick Eighty-fourth Illinois, Major [C. H.] Morton; Twenty-fourth Ohio, Captain [A. T. M.] Cockerill, and Par- sons battery, Lieutenants [H. C.] Cushing and [II. A.] Huntington (the Thirty-sixth Indiana absent, at Nashville, with supply train). We marched that night to IReadyville, 10 miles, and bivouacked until 5 oclock next morning, when, according to the generals order, we crossed the river there and took position on the other side, on the Woodbury pike, our skirmishers feeling their way into the woodland in front, before daylight, where the enemy was known to have been the evening before. The other forces that were to have co-operated with us not being up, we there rested until 8 oclock, when the general arrived, and we moved forward on the pike toward Woodhury, yet 6 miles distant, where the enemy was supposed to be in force, variously estimated from 1,000 to 6,000. The Second Brigade, Colonel [W. B.] Hazen, under the command of Colonel [W. H.] Blake, came up and moved forward close in our rear,the Twenty-third Kentucky and Twenty-fourth Ohio, of my brigade, taking the advance, with two companies from each thrown for- ward as skirmishers on either side of the road. After advancing about 3 miles, we came to the enemys outpost, and skirmishing commenced. We advanced, however, cautiously and steadily, driving the enemy within 1 mile of the town, where we found him posted in considerable numbers behind a double stone fence, with a deep ravine in his rear, forming complete protection against our small-arms. My two front regiments, with the skirmishers, gained the crest of some high ground on the road, which off to the left raised to a Not foand Page 19 CHAP XXXV] SKIRMISH AT WOODBURY, TENN. 19 high hill; the Twenty-third Kentucky on the left and the Twenty-fourth Ohio on the right of the pike, in line, about 550 yards distant from the enemy behind the stone fences; the Sixth Ohio and the Eighty-fourth Illinois in reserve in rear. Colonel Blake now came up and put in posi- tion the Forty-first Ohio and Sixth Kentucky to my left, on the high hill, driving the enemys skirmishers therefrom as he advanced. At this time a general heavy firing was kept np on both sides all along the line, our men sheltered by the crest of the hill, the enemy by the stone fences, so but little injury was being sustained on either side. I then requested, and the general sent me, two pieces of Captain [D. T.] Cock- erills battery, under command of Lieutenant [N.] Osburn, who soon paid his compliments to the stone fences and those behind them, causing the enemy to retire in confusion, double-quick. We pursued to the farther side of the town. The enemy being all cavalry, could easily move out of our way. He was, perhaps, about 1,000 strong, with no artillery. My forces met no serious injury. We found that the enemy had lost Lieutenant-Colonel [J. B.] Hutch- eson, 1 captain, and 3 men killed on the field (the former in command of the forces at the place), and heard of others being carried off killed or wounded. One we saw mortally wounded left in the town. My men having had so much desperate fighting recently with the enemy, we might well have doubted a desire to again engage him, but I am proud to say every officer and man, with energy and alacrity, moved to the discharge of his whole duty. Captain [William] Boden, Twenty-third Kentucky, and Lieutenant [I. N.] IDryden, Twenty-fourth Ohio, I noticed as prompt and efficient commanders of the front skirmish lines, and, perhaps, to some one of their men belongs the credit of killing Colonel Hutcheson, as he was killed by a Minie ball at an early stage of the skirmishing. Allow me to call attention to the want of co-operation of the cavalry that was to have acted with our forces, as the cause of our not capturing the enemy. I am, your obedient servant, WM. GROSE, Golonel, Commanding Third Brigade. Capt. D. W. NORTON, Acting Assistant Adjutant- General. No. 2. Report of Got. John 7?. Wilder, Seventeenth Indiana infantry, command. ing brigade. IIDQRS. 1ST BRIG., 5TH Div., CENTER, 14TH ARMY CORPS, ]Jfurfreesborough, January 25, 1863. SIR: I have the honor to report that at 3 p. in. (23d instant) I re- ceived orders to move my brigade out the Bradyville pike, to act in con- cert with Brigadier-General Palmer in an attack on Woodbury. The Seventy-second Regiment Indiana Volunteers being absent escorting at forage train, the One hundred and twenty-third Regiment Illinois Vol- unteers was ordered to accompany me. In accordance with the orders, I moved out the Bradyville pike to Cedar Run, 8 miles distant, and bivouacked until 4 oclock next morning, when I aroused the men and moved forward as fast as possible, and uscd proper precaution against surprise. I had learned that 700 of Buford Page 20 20 KY., MID. AND E. TENN., N. ALA., AND SW. YA. [CHAP. XXXV. rebel cavalry had moved toward Bradyville the day before on the same road. I reached there at 8 a. in., and found that the rebels had gone to Beech Grove without stopping. I then sent the cavalry (1,OO~ strong), under Colonel [11. II. G.] Minty, of the Fourth Michigan Cavalry, from Bradyville, to strike the MeMinuville road beyond Woodbury. I found no road practicable for artillery leading to Woodbury, exept one that goes down a creek and strikes the Woodbury pike 2~ miles from Ready- ville. After crossing over some very rough hills in trying to reach Woodbury from the south side, I was compelled to go back to the road leading direct from Bradyville to the Woodhury pike, and arrived at the pike at 2 p. m. Having learned 5 miles back that General Palmer had driven the rebels from Woodhury in the morning, and had moved back to Ileadyville, I then moved up within 3 miles of Woodbury and bivouacked, waiting for the cavalry, which came in at 9 oclock, having marched 21 miles from Bradyville before reaching Woodbury. They had captured 1 captain and 4 privates of [A.] Bufords cavalry at Wood. bury, and fired upon and chased a scouting party of rebels who were loitering about the place. - This morning, having no further orders, I returned to camp at Mur- freesborough, reaching here at 4 p. m. It was impossible to reach Woodbury sooner, as there is no road, except a bridle-path for neigh. borhood convenience in going to mill between Bradyville and Wood- bury, entirely impracticable for my artillery. The country is rough and hilly, the hills covered with timber and generally rocky. Even the cavalry could not get across without going 21 miles. Inclosed find a sketch of the country and roads by which I traveled.* The cavalry force had with them a topographical engineer, who will, doubtless, give a sketch of the roads traveled by them. The distance from Bradyville to Woodbury by any practicable route is 12 miles, and 8 miles to IReadyville. I am, sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant, J. T. WILDER, Colonel, 6omdg. 1st Brig., 5th Div., Center, 14th Army Corps. Maj. GEORGE E. FLYNT, Assistant Adjutant- General and Chief of AS~taff. JANUARY 25, 1863.Skirmish near iWill Creek, Tenn. REPORTS. No. 1.Col. John M. Harlan, Tenth Kentucky Infantry, commanding brigade. No. 2.Lient. Col. Christopher J. Dickerson, Tenth Michigan Infantry. No. 3.Sergt. Thomas Branch, Company I, Tenth Michigan Infantry. No. 1. Reports of 6~ol. John Mi. Harlan, Tenth Kentucky Infantry, commanding brigade. HEADQUARTERS SECOND BRIGADE, THIRD DIVIsIoN, La Vergue, Teun., January 25, 1863. MAJOR: I hereby submit a copy of the report of Captain [V.] Cnpp, First Ohio Cavalry, commanding detachment of cavalry at this point, Omitted Page 21 CHAP. XXXVI ~KII~MISll NEAR MILL CItEER, TENN. 21 containing all the information gained by his scouts with regard to the enemy in this vicinity: LA VEuGNE, January 25, 1863. A train of cars were attacked one-half mile this side of Antioch this morning. Two cars were burned; 55 prisoners captured and paroled by the enemya cavalry force nndcr command of Forrest. The force at Mill Creek Bridge came to relieve the train, and succeeded in saving the locomotive and several cars. This force is estimated at about 2,000, and it is supposed that they have returned toward Franklin. [V.] CUFF, Captain First Ohio Volunteer Cavalry. As soon as I heard that the enemy were in this vicinity I ordered all the trains on the road to Nashville to halt here until I had ascertained the facts in the case. Brigadier-General Stanley came here about 12 oclock in., and, on consultation with him, permitted the trains to pro- ceed on their way to Nashville, first, however, causing the men who were riding in the wagons to get out and form in the front, rear, and center of the trains. In addition to this guard, I sent one regiment and one piece of artillery from my command to escort them 4 or 5 miles, and return to-night. Everything indicates that the enemy have gone in the direction of Franklin. I am, major, very respectfully, yours, JOHN M. HARLAN, Colonel, Commanding & cond Brigade. Maj. GEORGE E. FLYNT, As8istant Adjutant- General. LA. YERGNE, January 26, 1863. SIR: At daylight this morning I left here with three regiments of infantry (Fourth Kentucky, Tenth Kentucky, and Seventy-fourth Indi- ana), a section of Sonthwicks battery, and the cavalry detachment sent from Murfreesborough last night, increased by Captain Cupps com- pany, First Ohio Cavalry, on duty here, and marched toward Concord Church, on Nolensvihle pike. Between this point and that church no enemy was found. I halted the infantry at the church, and sent the cavalry down the pike to Nolensville. No enemy was found there, and I do not believe that there is any enemy at this time within reach. Upon the trip of to-day I ascertained the following facts, upon which, I think, yon may place reliance, viz: Saturday night two brigades of rebel cavalry, numbering between 3,000 and 4,000 men, with eight pieces of artillery, came from the direction of Franklin, and halted at Concord Church. The force was Wheelers old brigade and Forrests 01(1 brigade, temporarily nuder the command of [James W.] Starnes. I saw where the whole forceencamped. During the night a force was detached from the main body of the enemy, not exceeding 1,000 and not less than 500, and sent to Antioch, near the railroad, where a small construction train was attacked and about 25 prisoners taken; but little damage done to the train; the locomotive and the main body of the cars were not hurt. The remainder of the force at Mill Creek Bridge, No. 3, came out of their stockade and went to the assistance of the small party with the train. The enemy retired in some haste. It so happened that on yesterday I had ordered the small cavalry squad here to be divided, and sent at daylight on all the different roads leading to the Nolensville [pike]. Those patrols caine upon the flankers of the force going to Antioch at several l)oints, fired upon them, an Page 22 22 KY., MID. AND E. TENN., N. ALA., AND SW. VA. [CHAP. XXXV. this probably indnced the enemy to believe that a force was getting into their rear, and hence their sadden exit. The rebels who attacked the train returned to Concord Chnrch by 9.30 or 10 oclock in the day, and the entire force there immediately left, went to Nolensville, and from that ~point, it is believed, went in the direction of Shelbyville. They had all left Concord Chnrch by 11 or 12 oclock in the day. The train attacked seems to be a train which stays this side of Mill Creek Bridge, No. 3; was cut off from Nashville by the destruction of that bridge, which is not yet rebuilt. The force which came out from Nashville last night returned early this morning. I do not return to camp until late this afternoon. Some of the rebel officers and men were heard to say upon their arrival at Concord Church that they were em route to attack La Vergne. If they entertained snch a purpose it was abandoned from some cause; probably because they learned that we were to some extent intrenched here. I have the honor to be, very respectfnlly, JOHN M. HARLAN, Colonel, Commanding Second Brigade, Third Division, Center. Maj. GEORGE E. FLYNT, Chief of Staff, Center. No. 2. Report of Jijeut. Col. Christopher J. Dickerson, Tenth Michigan Infantry. HDQRS. TENTH REGIMENT MICHIGAN VOL. INFANTRY, Nashville, January 30, 1863. COLONEL: In accordance with orders previously received, there have been detailed from this regiment 25 privates, 2 corporals, and 1 ser- geant, who are stationed at Bridge No. 3, on the Nashville and Chatta- nooga Railroad, about 9 miles distant from this city. On the 25th instant, about 10 a. in., an engine, with a number of cars attached, was started from Bridge No.3, in the direction of La Vergne, having on board the train between 25 and 30 men, acting as a train guard. After mov- ing out about 1~ miles, the cars were suddenly thrown from the track, in consequence of one of the rails having been slightly removed from its place. An attack was immediately made upon the train by a band of guer- rillas, numbering from 100 to150, said to be a part of Dick McCanns force. The train guard was captured and an effort made to burn the cars. and engine. Sergt. Thomas Branch, with his squad of men detailed from this regiment, hearing firing in the direction of the train, quickly started with his men to relieve the train, if possible. Upon arriving in sight of the train, about 40 rebels were observed in the act of setting the cars and engine on fire with some rails which they had collected for that pur- pose. Sergeant Branch, getting his men into position, moved up near the train and fired a volley at the car-burners, who immediately broke and run for their horses, which were hitched to a fence a short distance offi After recapturing the train and driving the enemy for some dis- tance, the engine and cars were run back to Bridge No. 3. Sergeant Branch and the men under his command are entitled to much credit for the manner in which they behaved on this occasion Page 23 CHAP. XXXV.] 23 SKIRMISII NI~AR MILL CREEK, TEN~T. They accomplished what a niuch larger force havc often failed to accom- plish under more favorable circumstances. Inclosed I forward a copy of a report made to me by Sergeant Branch. Respectfully submitted. C. J. DICKERSON, Lieut. Cot., Comdg. Tenth Regiment ]Iliehigan Infantry. Col. R. F. SMITH, Commanding Second Brigade, Second Division. No. 3. Report of Sergt. Thomas Branch, Company I, Tenth Michigan Infantry. MILL CREEK, NASHVILLE AND CHATTANOOGA RAILROAD, January 27, 1863. COLONEL: In accordance with your order, which I received this day, I will proceed to write a statement of facts relating to the skirmish which took place near here on the 25th instant. The engine, with a number of cars, started in the direction of La Vergne. There were from 25 to 30 men on the cars, acting as a train guard. In a short time after the train moved, I heard firing up the track. Supposing it to be an attack on the train, I ordered my men to fall iii. In three minutes we were moving on a double-cinick up the track. We soon came upon a rebel mounted picket, who ordered us to halt. We replied by sending a number of shots after him. He ran, and we saxv no more of him. I now ordered 12 men to move forward as skirmishers until they came opposite the train, then rally and move toward the road. The balance of my men moved up toward the track on the right of the skirmishers. When we came within a few yards of the train we could distinctly hear the rebels at work burning the train. Some one halloed, Tom, hurry up; the devils are burning the train! We were now opposite the train, and I gave the command, Rally on the right file. We soon got into line and moved up within range, when we gave them a volley. They jumped from the cars and ran for their horses, which were tied to a fence about 60 rods from the train. We gave one yell and charged on them, or I should say after them, for they had got quite the start of us. We drove them into the woods, until we saw at least two companies of cav- alry in line waiting for the car-burners, who were about 40 iii number. They retreated over a hill and we left them. We now devoted our attention to pi tting out the fires which they had kindled on the train with rails. Some of the fires had got pretty well to going, and one car was partly burned up. After putting out the fires, we ran the train into our camp. We captured two horses, with equipments, and several guns. How many we killed I know not. The paroled prisoners who were captured on the train say they know we killed 2 and wounded a number. These are the facts, as near as I can state them. THOMAS BRANCH, Sergeant Company I, Tenth ]Jliehigan Infantry, Comdg. Guard to Construction Train on Nash. and Chat. R. B. Lient. Col. C. J. DICKERSON, Commanding Tenth Michigan Ijctntry Page 24 24 KY., MITib AND E. TENN., N. ALA., AND SW. VA. [CIIAV. XXXV. [Indorsements] HEADQUARTERS FOURTH DIVISION, February 4, 1863. Respectfully forwarded. Sergeant Branch acquitted himself with a great deal of credit in this spirited affair he so modestly details. Many officers of a much higher grade would not have done as well. By his courage and coolness lie not only drove away the enemy, but saved to the Government valuable property. He ought to be promoted. JAMES D. MORGAN, Brigadier-General, Commanding. HEADQUARTERS UNITED STATES FORCES, Nashville, Tenn., February 4, 1863. Respectfully forwarded to department headquarters. All reports concur in attributing officerlike qualities to this soldier. I respectfully recommend his promotion. ROBT. B. MITCHELL, Briqadier- General, Commanding. JANUARY 31FEBRUARY 13, 1863.Expedition from Nurfreesborough to Franklin, Tenn., etc., including skirmishes (January 31) at Unionville and Middleton, and (January 31 and February 13) at Rover. REPORTS. No. 1.Brig. Gen. Jefferson C. Davis, U. S. Army, commanding First Division, Twen- tieth Army Corps. No. 2. Col. Robert H. G. Minty, Fourth Michigan Cavalry, commanding Cavalry Brigade. No. 3.Capt. L. W. Battle, Fifty-first Alabama Cavalry. No. 4.Licut. Col. John S. Prather, Eighth Confederate Cavalry. No. 5.Col. W. F. Tucker, Forty-first Mississippi Infantry, commanding Chalmers brigade. No. 1. Report of Brig. Gen. Jefferson C. Davis, U. S. Army, commanding First Division, Twentieth Army Corps. EAGLEVILLE, TENN., January 31, 1863. I arrived here with my infantry at 3p. m. The cavalry I sent through Versailles, Middleton, Unionville, and Rover. After some skirmishing they succeeded in taking about 100 prisoners, arms, equipments, & c. Among them are 1 major, 3 captains, and a proportion of lieutenants. These little skirmishes kept my cavalry back, and hence my infantry from advancing farther to-day. I have had bad success in finding out the enemys exact whereabouts. I only know he left here, 3,000 or 4,000 strong, with six pieces of artillery, yesterday~ morning, moving north- ward, all under command of Wheeler. The cavalry came in at 7.30, much jaded on account of the horrible condition of the roads. I shall move in the direction of Franklin to-morrow morning early, keeping my cavalry on my h4t fia~k, and try to get control of the road leading fro Page 25 CHAP. XXXV.] EXPEDITION TO FRANKLIN, TENN., ETC. 25 that place to Columbia. The roads are represented as being impassable, except on the pikes. If this be so I may not be able to get to the Columbia pike, and this will give the enemy a chance to escape that way, but I shall try and shove him up to-morrow. I think I shall make Franklin by night to-morrow. I shall send the prisoners to Murfrees- borough in the morning. In haste, believe me, yours, truly, JEF. C. DAVIS, Brigadier- General, Commanding. Brig. Gen. 11. W. JOHNSON, Commanding Right Wing. [Indorsement.] HEADQUARTERS TWENTIETh ARMY CORPS, February 1, 1863. Respectfully forwarded for the information of the general commanding. I shall send messenger to General Davis at 8 oclock. R. W. JOHNSON, Brigadier- General of Volunteers, Commanding. No. 2. Reports of Gol. Robert IL G. Minty, Fourth Michigan Cavalry, command ing Cavalry Brigade. JANUARY 31,1863. CAPTAIN: I send in 94 rebels, 13 of them with saber wounds on and about their heads. I have had 2 men wounded, I pretty badly. There are a few dead rebels lying about the woods. I remained in Unioliville about half an hour. Cheatham was said to be 5 miles out with his division. Yours, ROBT. II. G. MINTY, Colonel, ~Jommanding Cavalry Detachment. Captain SINCLAIR, Assistant Adjutant- General. HEADQUARTERS FIRST CAVALRY BRIGADE, Camp near llliurfreesborough, February 14, 1863. CAPTAIN: At 7 a. in., January 31, I reported to Bri~. (len. Jeff. C. Davis with the First and Third Brigades of Cavalry, consisting of First Brigade: Seventh Pennsylvania Cavalry 1Th Fourth Michigan Cavalry ~270 Third Kentucky Cavalry 143 Section Battery D, First Ohio Artillery 100 Third Brigade: Fourth U. S. Cavalry . 400 Second Tennessee Cavalry 200 Third Tennessee Cavalry 40 640 Total 1,3-2 Page 26 26 .KY., MID. AND F. TENN., N. ALA., AND SW. VA. [CHAP. XXXV. General Davis ordered me to proceed to Versailles, where he would join me with his division as early as possible, and reqnested that I should in the. mean time scout the country toward Middleton and Unionville. At Salem I detached the Second and Third Tennessee, under Colonel [William R.] Cook, and directed him to proceed to Middleton, and, if possible, from there to Unionville, where I wonld form a junction with him. At Versailles I learned from citizens that a force of 400 cavalry was stationed at Rover. After allowing sufficient time for Colonel Cook to approach Unionville, I moved om~ Rover, and about 1~imiles from that place I struck the enemys pickets, which were driven in sharply by Major [L.] Wolifey, Third Kentucky Cavalry, commanding the advance guard. About one-half a mile from Rover I discovered the enemy in line. I ordered the Seventh Pennsylvania Cavalry to charge, which they did in most gallant style, led by Captain [W. II.] Jennings. After a short,but sharp, conflict the enemy broke, and was driven 1 mile beyond Rover. I captured 0 officers and 43 enlisted men, beside 49 wounded, all of whom, except one, were wounded with sabers. At this moment (3 p. in.) Lieutenant Reynolds, of General Davis staff, rode up with orders for me to move on Eagleville, as Generals Wheeler and Forrest were both at that place with t.heir entire force. Lieutenant Reynolds reported that when he left General Davis he was within 4 miles of Eagleville, and pushing on rapidly. Consequently General Davis must have arrived at Eagleville before Lieutenant Reynolds gave me the order. I had not yet heard from Colonel Cooks command, which I had ordered to meet me at Unionville. From information which I had received, I was satisfied that there was no force at Eagleville. If Gen- eral Davis had met with resistance, I should have heard cannonading. I was now only 2 miles from Unionville and 7 from Eagleville. Under these circumstances, I deemed it advisable to proceed to Unionville, and, if possible, form a junction with my detached regiments. I drove the enemy into and through Unionville, and held that place for about one hour, when a courier arrived from Colonel Cook, who had fallen back toward Versailles, reporting that he had surprised a small force of rebels at Middleton, and had captured Col. Clint. Douglas [De Witt C. Douglass], 1 captain, 1 lieutenant, and 41 men. The enemy had been re-enforced, and, attacking him, had driven him back. He asked ibr re-enforcements. I oidered Colonel Cook to fall back to Eagleville by the road leading through Versailles, called in my skir- mishers, and marched to Eagleville, where I found General Davis division encamped. They had arrived at 3 p. in., without meeting the enemy. February 1, General Davis ordered me to proceed to Peytonsville, cross the ilarpeth, near that place, and form a junction with him at or near Boyces Creek. I found the road to Peytonsville almost impassable, in consequence of which I did not arrive there until after 2 p. in., and then found that the rebels had burned all the bridges across the ilarpeth, and that there was no ford nearer than within3 miles of Franklin. My advance had captured 3 rebel cavalrymen, who stated that Generals Wheeler, Wharton, and Forrest were at Franklin with their divisions. Consid- ering it of importance that I should form a junction with General Davis as early as possible, I took the road to Poplar Grove or Harpeth, crossed the river at the ford west of the pike, moved beyond the junction of the Eagleville pike, and (my artillery and ambulance horses being com- pletely tired out) bivoua& ked for the night Page 27 27 CHAP. XXXV.] EXPEDITION TO FRANRLIN, TI~NN., ETC. February 2, marched at daybreak, passed through Triune, and pushed rapidly on Franklin, where I found General Davis, who had taken peace- able possession of the town. There being no forage in the immediate vicinity of Franklin, the general directed me to move out a few miles on the Carters Creek pike. I camped on the road leading from that pike to ilulisborongli and 5~ miles from Franklin, and threw pickets well out. February 5, marched at 1 oclock p. in., passed throngli iluhisborough, and took the Xatchez Trace road. Camped after dark a couple of miles west of the junction of the road leading through Boston. February 6, General Davis directed me to march to Kinderhook, a small town at the junction of the Natchez Trace and Charlotte and Columbia roads, and there wait for further orders. After some delay, I received orders to take the road leading to Charlotte. I bivouacked after dark 1 mile south of the road leading from Nashville to Centreville. I captured this day Colonel Carroll and Major Rambaut, of Forrests staff, and 2 lieutenants and 23 men of Forrests and Whartons escorts, 1 of them a courier from Shelbyville with dispatches for General Wharton. From information received from citizens and prisoners, I found that the rebel cavalry had marched from Yellow Creek, and were crossing Duck iRivei at Centrevihle, 18 miles distant. February 7, General Davis ordered me to return to Franklin via Smiths Springs and Hillsborough. I arrived at my old camp at dark. February 10, camped on north side of the Harpeth, immediately east of the railroad. February 12,1 sent the Seventh Pennsylvania and Second Tennessee across the river to picket the woods and form the rear guard for General Davis division, and with the remainder of my force marched for Triune, where I halted to feed horses and to allow the infantry to close up, and then took possession of our old ground at Eagleville. February 13, General Davis returned to Murfreesborough with his division. Understanding that the Eighth Confederate Cavalry was camped near Rover, I took 500 men and moved forward about 3 mules, when I sent Colonel [E. II.] Murray with the Third Kentucky, with instructions to push through the woods and secure a position in rear of the rebel camp, but the movement occupying more time than I anticipated, I had driven the enemy out before Colonel Murray had gained the desired position. I arrived in camp at Murfreesborongh at 9 oclock p. in. I captured during the scout 2 colonels, 1 major, 4 captains, 7 lieutenants, aiud 168 enlisted men. My casualties were 1 man severely and 1 dangerously wounded. I am, respectfully, your obedient servant,. ROBT. II. G. MINTY, Colonel, Commanding First Cavalry Brigade. Captain SINCLAIR, Assistant Adjutant- General, Cavalry Corps. No. 3. Report of Capt. L. W. Battle, Fifty-first Alabama Cavalry. CAMP NEAR FOSTERYILLE, TENN., February 1, 1863. COLONEL: In compliance with orders received from you, I have the honor to subunit the following report of the attack upon our forces a Page 28 28 J~1Y., MID. AND E. TENN., N. ALA., AND SW. VA. [CHAP. Xxxv. Middleton by the cavalry of the enemy upon yesterday, the 31st ultimo: The enemy attacked and drove in the pickets in front, following im- mediately after the few who reached camp. They (the enemy) approached within about 100 yards and came to a halt. Colonel [Dc WitI C.] Douglass gave the order for the officers to cause their men to mount and form the companies. The horses were all unsaddled, except those of Captain [Nathan] Carters company, which company was mounted and formed, as it was in the act of being mustered. Instead of the men forming, they mounted their horses and scattered in the wildest confusion, being pursued by the enemy 4 miles. In the mean time some of the officers attempted to rally the men for a stand, but without avail. From the best information that I have been able to obtain, the attacking party consisted of about 120 cavalry. Colo- nel Douglass and a number of his men were captured, and several wagons that were out foraging were burned. A small party of the Eighth Con- federate and Fifty-first Alabama IRegiments was collected upon the wood [road], turned upon the enemy, and pursued them through Middleton, the enemy retreating rapidly. All of which is respectfully submitted. L. W. BATTLE, Captain C~ompany B, Ji~fty-first Alabama Regiment. Col. W. B. WADE, Commanding Brigade. No. 4. Reports of Jijeut. Col. John S. Prather, Eighth Confederate 6~avalry. HEADQUARTERS FIRST CAVALRY BRIGADE, General B. F. CHEATHAiXI, February 3, 1863. Commanding Polks Go~ps: Inclosed I send you report of Major [John S.] Prathers skirmish with the enemy on the 31st ultimo, as furnished me by Captain [L. W.] Battle, the officer appointed by me to investigate that matter. WM. B. WADE Commanding First Cavalry Brigade. ROVER, TENN., February 2, 1863. CAPTAIN: About 2 p. m. on the 31st ultimo the enemys cavalry in overwhelming numbers made a dash upon my pickets on the Rover and Versailles road. So sudden and rapid was the enemy~s attack and pursuit, that I was not apprised of his approach until almost upon me.. The officer commanding the picket (Lieutenant [J. T.] Staples) nobly and bravely discharged his whole duty. My men were promptly mounted and moved forward to support the pickets and save the camp. Couriers were also promptly dispatched to withdraw the other pickets. The enemy dashed boldly forward under the best fire I could give them, and pressed me back to Unionville, where they withdrew at sunset and took up camp at Eagleville. Although everything was done in my power, I regret to have to report the loss of quite a number, among whom were 7 commissioned officers Page 29 29 CHAP. XXXV.] EXPEDITION TO FRANKLIN, TENN., ETC. The men captured were principally those who from some cause or other lingered in camp, and others so badly mounted as to be unable to make their escape. One of my men was mortally wounded, and has since died. Several others wounded, but not dangerously. My whole loss, from the best in- formation I have, is about 33. My whole force did not exceed 150 men, some of whom were on picket; one company, nuder Captain [J. T.] Wright, scouting, and others forag- ing, & c., thus, you see, leaving me less than 100 men to light the enemy. It was necessary to make the resistance here in order to protect my pickets, who were being pressed in, and also those on post. The attack- ing force of the enemy was upward of 2,000 strong (cavalry), with four pieces of artillery. The enemys loss was 15 or 20 in killed and wounded. My pickets were well established and the utmost vigilance exercised. The force that passed through Middleton (or supposed to have passed through there) arrived at Unionville after we had fallen back below that point. Th~ division of infantry, several thousand cavalry, with several bat- teries, the whole under General Jefferson C. Davis, camped at Eagle- ville night before last, and moved off yesterday morning about 10 oclock in the direction of Triune and Franklin,. with the avowed intention of pursuing General Wheeler. Ilespeetfully submitted. JOHN S. PRATHEIR, Lieutenant- Colonel, Commanding Eighth Confederate Regiment. Captain [L. W.] BATTLE, Fosterville. P. S.1 followed up the enemy as he withdrew and re-established myself at this post, aud also scouted and ascertained his position at Eagleville. FEBRUARY 13, 1863. The skirmish is over, the enemy have fled, and this evening finds me occupying my old position. They attacked my pickets this morning at 1 oclock and soon after daylight, when I fell back slowly upon the in- fantry picket. I was in hopes they would have followed me there also, but, smelling a mice, they concluded to return. Nobody hurt, and all is quiet at this time. Very respectfully, JOHN ~. PRATHER, Lieutenant- Colonel, Commanding. Col. W. B. WADE. No. 5. Reports of Cot. TV. F. Tucker, Forty-first Mississippi Infantry, command ing Chalmers brigade. NEAR UNIONVILLE, TENN., February 13, 186311.30 a. m. MAJOR: I have just met a part of our cavalry retiring before the enemy, whom they report to be advancing with a large force of cavalry and a battery of light artillery. They are said to be within a mile o Page 30 30 KY., MID. AND E. TENN., N. ALA., AND SW. VA. [CIIAIX XXXV. this place, and I am making preparations to receive them. Lieutenant- Colonel Prather with a part of his cavalry is still skirmishing with them. Jam, major, your obedient servant, W. F. TUCKER, Colonel, Commanding Chalmers Brigade. Major [THOMAS M.J JACx, Assistant Adjutant. General. HEADQUARTERS CHALMERS BRIGADE, Near Unionville, Tenn., February 113, 1863. ~kfter waiting in position for some time, expecting the enemy to ~vance, and nntml, in fact, they were within half a mile of us, I was ~iformed by Lientenant.Colonel Prather that they were falling back. I advanced my command, but being satisfied that they were retreating to Eagleville, and not being able to get within reach of them I withdrawing my command to its former position. am I am, major, your obedient servant, W. F. TUCKER, Mmi.jor [THOMAS ~.] JACK, Colonel, Commanding Brigade. 4ssistant Adjutant. General. FEBRDARY 12, l863.Reconnaissance to Franklin and Brentwood, Tenn. Report of Brig. Gen. James B. Steedman, U. S~ Army, commanding Third Division, Fourteenth Army 6orps. WILSONS PIKE, SIX MILES FROM FRANKLIN, February 2, 1863. COLONEL: My advance, two companies of the First East Tennessee Cavalry, under command of Lieutenant-Colonel [J. P.] Browniow, had gone forward before the order directing me to reconnoiter in the direction of Breutwood reached me. Colonel Browulow entered Franklin at 9 oclock last ni~ht, and learned that the enemy had gone in the direction of Harpeth Shoals. The colonel lost 1 man killed by the enemys rear guard. He captured 1 captain and 1 private of Starnes command. I move this morning at 7 oclock in the direction of Brentwood. For ~ome reason, to me inexplicable, Colonel [J. T. Wilder did not report to me, and wait. ing for him and Colonel [J. T.]Croxton, after being satisfied Wilder was not coming, to get here, with the storm rendering the roads almost im- passable, delayed me twenty-four hours. But for the unavoidable delay, I would have been in Franklin in time enough to attack the enemy, which I intended to do. I will, unless otherwise ordered, after making th~ reconnaissance directed in my last order, return to my camp on the Tolensville pike, at the crossing of Mill Creek, and furnish to Colonel [W. P.] Junes whatever aid he may require on the bridges. JAMES B. STEEDMAN, Maj. C. GODDARD, Brigadier-General, Third Division. Assistant Adjutant- General Page 31 CHAP. XXXV.] ATTACK ON FORT DONELSON, TENN. 31 FEBRUARY 3, 1863.Attack on Fort Donelson, Tenn. REPORTS. No. 1.Maj. Gen. William S. Rosecrans, U. S. Army, commanding Department of the Cumberland. No. 2.Brig. Gen. Jefferson C. Davis, U. S. Army, commanding First Division, Twentieth Army Corps. No. 3.Col. William W. Lowe, Fifth Iowa Cavalry, commanding Forts Henry, Hei- man, and Donelson. No. 4.Col. Abner C. Harding, Eighty-third Illinois Infantry, commanding Fort Donelson. No. 5.Maj. Gen. Joseph Wheeler, C. S. Army, commanding expedition. No. 1. Report of ilfaj. Gem. William S. Rosecrans, U. S. Army, commanding Department of the Cumberland. MURFREESBOROUGH, TENN., February 5, 1863. RebelsWheeler, Forrest, Wharton, and Woodwardattacked Fort Donelson yesterday at 2 p. in., with 4,000 men and eight pieces of artil- lery. We had 800 men in the fort, under Col. A. C. Harding. They charged the fortifications several times, but were repulsed by our artil- lery and infantry with great loss. The enemy, as usual, before and after the fight, demanded a surrender, and offered to spare life if accepted, & c. Colonel Harding replied he was ready for all the consequences. The enemys loss in killed was over 100; in prisoners, 300. Forces under Colonel Lowe from Fort Henry, are pursuing them, and others are sent to intercept their retreat. Our loss, 12 killed and 30 wounded. W. ~. IROSECIRANS, Major. General. Maj. Gen. II. W. HALLECK, General-in- Chief. No. 2. Reports of Brig. (len. Jefferson C. Davis, U. S. Army, commanding First Division, Twentieth Army Corps. FRANKLIN, February 8, 1863. COLONEL: Got back last night. Went as far as the roads leading from Charlotte to Williamsport. Up the road, nearly as far as Bon Aqua Springs, took a few prisoners, among them Colonel [Charles M.] Carroll and Major [G. V.] Rambaut, of Forrests staff. Wheeler was advancing on this road, but got wind of us, and changed his direction down the Piiey, crossing at Centreville. It was impossible to get them before they crosse(l- the roads and weather were excessively bad. Our march was 75 inies. I shall move down in the direction of Columbia to-morrow morning, nnless otherwise ordered. Communicate to this place. Gen- eral Morgan returns with his cavalry to Nashville to-day. My troops are all in good health, but our cavalry is too slow. JEF. C. DAVIS, Brigadier- General. Colonel GODDARD, Assistant Adjutant- General Page 32 32 KY., MID. AND E. TENN., N. ALA., AND SW. VA. [CHAP. XXXV. HEADQUARTERS, Franklin, Tenn., February 8, 1863. COLONEL: I forwarded by telegraph from Nashville this morning my return from the cavalry expedition in pursuit of Wheelers forces and its result. As a more detailed report may be desired, for the information of the general commanding, I have the honor to submit that, on Thursday last, the 5th instant, after having been joined by General Morgan with 500 cavalry, I started with his and Mintys command, amounting in all to about 1,500 men, taking the road through llillsborough, and I arrived some time after dark within a few miles of the road leading from Char. lotte to Williamsport. The whole days march was through a chilling snow-storm, and over almost impassable roads. The second day, early in the morning, I reached the Williamsport road, and felt very confident of meeting the enemys forces. Finding he had not yet reached this point, I pushed forward in the direction of Charlotte. When in the vicinity of Bon Aqua Springs, we captured a few prisoners, who had been in the fight at Donelson. From these I learned the enemy had gotten information of our whereabouts, and had changed his direc. tion to a more westerly route. Wheelers main force passed westward 7 miles of Charlotte, and, moving down the Piney, crossed at Centreville. Forrest came through Charlotte, but got alarmed and changed his direction to the same route. It was now certain that I could not intercept the enemy, and to attempt to pursue him with cavalry, iu the condition ours is at present, was a hopeless undertaking; I ordered the return to our camp near Hills. borough with great reluctance. We reached it after dark last night. Could I have reached the enemy in the condition in which he was, I am satisfied that I could have beaten him badly and captured many prisoners. As it was, we only got about 30, among whom are Colonel Carroll and Major Bambaut, of Forrests staff. They had ridden ahead of their command, got lost, and were some 12 miles from their chief when taken. The enemys advantage in getting information is very great. Couriers are stationed in every town and neighborhood, who fly ahead of us invariably as we approach. Conscript officers were scouring the country very actively, and, so far as I could learn, were getting recruits very fast. There is little resistance made against enforcing the acts. Most of the inhabitants are disloyal; what few Union men I met were afraid to pro. claim it, and, therefore, worthless to us. I am, colonel, very respectfully, your obedient servant, JEF. C. DAVIS, Brigadier. General, Commanding. Colonel GODDARD, A. A. U., Dept. of the Cumberland, Miurfreesborough, leun. No. 3. Reports of Col. William W. Lowe, Fifth Iowa Cavalry, commanding Forts flenry, Heiman, and Donelson. HEADQUARTERS UNITED STATES FORCES, Forts Henry, fleirnan, and Donelson, February 3, 1863. Enemy within 8 miles of Donelson, advancing. Cannot tell his strength Page 33 CHAP. XXXV.] ATTACK ON FORT DONELSON, J~ 33 One company of our cavalry is out beyond them, and Colonel Hard- ing entertains fears that they may have been captured. Everything possible is being done. W. W. LOWE, General IIOSEcRANS, Colonel, 6omrnanding. Murfreesborough, Tenn. FORT HENRY, February 3, 18635.30 p. m. Fighting commenced at Donelson an hour since. I directed Colonel Harding to make a demonstration to press back their advance, to find their strength, and then to fall back to the trenches. After they had been engaged about fifteen minutes, the line ceased to work. Have started over some infantry and cavalry, and am now crossing more in- fantry, cavalry, and artillery. Will start over myself as soon as I can get force arranged. W. W. LOWE, Colonel. General ROSECRANS. iUoRT UENRX, February 4, 1863f3 a. m. Enemy repulsed. His force was greater than ours. Our loss posi- tively numbers but from 30 to 40. His loss heavy. Am preparing to follow. W. W. LOWE, Colonel, Commanding. General ROSECRANS. - FORT DONELSON, February 4, 1863. A glorious victory over Wheeler, Forrest, and Wharton. One hun- dred and thirty-five of their killed already found. We have some 50 prisoners. Their wounded and siragglers are being continually brought in. Colonel [F. N.] McNairy, rebel, killed; Forrest wounded. The whole rebel force in full retreat. I have cavalry following. The pre- cise number of the enemy I cant tell, but one of their surgeons now here says they had eleven regiments here. It is known they had from eight to elevew pieces of artillery. Colonel Harding and his force did noble fighting. W. W. LOWE, Colonel, Commanding. General ROSECRANS. FORT IDONELSON, February 4, 1863. Enemy is in full retreat toward Charlotte and Shelbyville; cavalry have captured quite a number. I will suggest that a force can be sent down between the two rivers, and their whole force can be met and captured. They are out of ammunition and rations. Large fleet here under Crook and Gilbert, with seven gunboats. W. W. LOWE, Colonel, ~Jornmanding. General IIOSECRANS. 3 R RYOL XXIII, PT Page 34 34 KY., MID. AND P. TENN., N. ALA., AND SW. VA. [CHAP. XXXV. FORT HENRY, February 8, 1863. Wheelers force took to tlie right of Charlotte, and marched for Columbia; then marched rapidly and left no force between here and Nashville. Six gunboats and fleet have arrived at Donelson from Nashville. Tennessee about 15 feet. W. W. LOWE, ASSISTANT ADJUTANT-GENERAL, Colonel, Con ita ding. [Department of the Gum berland.] No. 4. Report of Cot. Abner C. Harding, Eighty-third Illinois Infantry, com manding Fort Donelson. HEADQUARTERS UNITED STATES FORCES Forts Henry, Heiman, and Donelson, Februdry 10, 1863. SIR: I have the honor to forward Colonel Hardings official report of the action at Fort Donelson on the 3d instant. I have but to remark that this report does not show the completeness of the victory, as enough rebel dead have since been found to make the number of their killed equal to 200. Jam, sir, your obedient servant, ~. XV. LOWE, ASSISTANT ADJUTANT-GENERAL, Colonel, Commanding. Department of the Cumberland, Jllurfreesborough, [Penn. HEADQUARTERS UNITED STATES FORCES, Fort Donelson, [Penn., February 6, 1863. SIR: I have the honor to make the following report of the engage- ment of the forces under my command with the enemy under Generals Wheeler, Forrest, and Wharton at this place on the 3d instant: You will remember that on the 2d instant I forwarded to you a re- port that the enemy, 900 strong, with several l)ieces of artillery, under command of Forrest, had taken a position on the river at Palmyra, for the purpose of obstructing the navigation of the Cumberland, and that I made a proposition to take a transport theu lying at this landing, arming it with artillery and infantry, and making a reconnaissance to- ward that point, which proposition you approved. Accordingly, on the morning of the 3d, I ordered Major [E. C.] Brott, of my regiment, to take the steamer Wild Cat and place upon it one com- pany of the Eighty-third and two guns of Floods battery, protected by bales of hay, and proceed up the river in the direction of Palmyi a. This order had been so far executed as that the expedition was ready to move by 11 a. in. Early in the forenoon of that day reports were brought in that the enemy were advancing upon Donelson by the road leading down the river. I had started Captain [Henning] von Minden, of Comupany G, Fifth iowa Cavalry, with 30 men, by way of the rolling-mill road, to make a reconnaissance overland in conjunction with the river expedition. lie had mnove(I becore the first xeport of the approach of the enemy caine in. Also, early on the morning of that day a small party of mounted men, nuder Lieutenant [G.] Lene, of Company G, Fifth iowa Cavalry, had been sen Page 35 CLIAl. XXXY.] 35 ATTACK ON FORT DONELSON, TENN. out to remove a family from near the rolling-mill to this fort. While this detachment was at the house of the family spoken of, the advance of the enemys forces made their appearance there, and a citizen who was at the house seized one of the cavalry horses and rode to the fort and gave the alarm. This was about 111.30 a. m. From this time until the appearance of th~ enemy at our lines these same reports were repeatedly corrobo- rated. I now ordered Major Brott to take his forces off the steamer, had the long-roll sounded, and at the same time sent out the remaining cav- alry on the different roads approaching the fort, to ascertain the enemys whereabouts. They soon returned, and reported the enemys advance within I mile of our pickets on two different roads. I immed~tely got my command in fighting trim and prepared for the contest. In order to give you a more comprehensive idea of the disposition of my own forces and of the enemy~s, I will make the following explana- jions: As a base of my own operations, I will take three of the principal streets of the site of Dover, forming three sides of a square open on the east, the north side being 40 rods from [the river], and parallel with the river is a ravine iutervening on the west side, and near to and parallel with the street is a deep ravine running into the river aud heading near the southwest corner of the supposed square. There is a deep ravine running all around the south and east sides of the encampment, at a distance of about 20 rods from our supposed base. On the other side of the said line, and across the east cud, is a line of rifle-pits inclosing an area of about three-fourths of an acre of ground, upon which ground are encamped six companies of my regiment. This piece of ground slopes gradually to the east and south, and, as my encampment is sur- rounded by a very high semi-circular ridge, running from the river above around the rear and intersecting the river below, my rifle-pits were so constructed that batteries placed upon the ridge could without difficulty pour in a very destructive enfilading fire. For this reason I did not deem it prudent to dispose my forces in the trenches. About 12 m. I ordered Captain [P. E.] Reed, with his company (A) of my regiment, to deploy his men as skirmishers on the ridge southward near my outposts. At the same time I order~d Captain [J.] MeClana- han, with his company (B), to deploy his men on the ridge eastward, near the outposts there, thus guarding the two main approaches to my position. At about 1 oclock Company B began to engage the enemy~s skir- mishers. It will be remembered that only nine companies of my regi- ment were present, Company G having been sent to INashville as a guard to a transport, thus leaving me with nine companies of the Eighty- third, Floods battery of four rifled cannon, and from 10 to 15 mounted men; and as these detachments all had heavy sick-lists, I cannot esti- mate my force engaged above 750 men. At about 1.30 oclock Generals Wheeler, Forrest, and Wharton sent in a flag of truce, demanding the surrender of my command, which I respectfully declined. I now ordered gun No. 2, of Floods battery, supported by Company I, Captain [J. B.] Donley, and Company F, Cap- tain [J. T.] Morgan, of the Eighty-third Regiment Volunteer Infantry, to take position on the hill, near the graveyard, 300 yards from the southwest corner of my base, and on the Fort Henry road, which posi- tion overlooks my encaml)ment as well as the surrounding country. I (leemed this of great importance; first, because I believed the enemy would cut off my communication toward Fort Henry, and, second, be- cause I believed this point to be the key to my position, from the fac Page 36 36 KY., MID. AND E. TENN., N. ALA., AND SW. VA. [CHAr. XXXV. that the ridge upon which the road runs extends down to my encamp. ment. Soon after, Company C, under command of Lieutenant [J. C.] Gamble, of the Eighty-third, was sent as a support to this gun and the two companies. I now ordered gun No. 1, of the battery, supported by Compaliies H (Captain [W. G.] Bond) and K (Captain [G. WJ Reynolds), of the Eighty. third, to take position at the east end of my rifle-pits. I then recalled my skirmishers, placed gun No. 4, of the battery, behind a little redoubt at the southwest corner of my base. By this time the enemys lines could be seen drawn up around the whole extent of the heights over~ looking my position. They soon put in position a battery of four guns on the ridge to the eastward, and commenced a vigorous shelling of my guns in position near the end of the rifle-pits, and at the same time the gun and companies at the graveyard, under command of Lieutenant- Colonel [A. A.] Smith, became hotly engaged. I had now deployed the remaining companies of the Eighty-third in the deep ravine west of my base, in which position they were entirely sheltered from the enemys artillery. You will remember that at the northwest corner of my base, near the site of the old court-house, I have in position a 32-pounder siege gun, which I brought from the enemys old water battery at the fort last sum- mer. ThisI had well intrenched, and the position is a splendid one, the gun, being on pivot, commanding every approach. The enemy were now shelling us from three batteries (in all, probably nine guns), from the east, south, and southwest, occasionally changing their position, and raining storms of iron hail upon us, which it would have been very hard to withstand had we been in a less protected position. I now ordered the gun at the east end of the rifle-pits to niove to the assistance of Lieutenant-Colonel Smith, at the graveyard, as a very heavy force was pressing his position. I then ordered gun No. 4 to be moved from the redoubt to near my headquarters, and put in position near the siege gun, which was being finally maneuvered under the direction of Adjutant [W. B.] Casey. Here No.4 fired a few shots, and at this time the enemy made demonstrations for a charge along the low ground near the river. To meet this, I ordered gun No. 4 to move down the street and toward the river, and, if possible, to drive them back. This was soon executed, when No. 4 again returned to its position near the siege gun, fired a few shots, and it was then sent to the assistance of Lieutenant-Colonel Smith. Gun No. 3 took the posi- tion of No. 4 at the redoubt near the headquarters, but as it was unable to accomplish much, it was also sent to the assistance of Lieutenant- Colonel Smith. Gun No. 3, and all the guns at this position, did splendid execution, until friction primers and port-fires were exhausted, and two of the guns became choked in the vent. The battery sut& red very severely in the loss of horses killed and wounded, and, in the confusion conse- quent, they became so entangled in the harness that when Colonel Smith, ascertaining that the ammunition was exhausted, ordered the battery to the rear, it was with difficulty that any of the guns could be taken off the field. All except the wheel-horses of No. 4 were killed, and it was given up as lost, unless our infantry could hold the enemy in check until the cannoneers could get the others off and return to remove it by hand. Nos. 1, 2, and 3 were made safe, and the cannoneers, with a daring rarely exhibited, returned for INo. 4. The driver mounted his wheel. horses, but the piece was cramped, and, before they could move it, th Page 37 CRAP. XXXV,] ATTACK ON FORT DONLLSON, TENN. 37 off-horse was shot dead in his harness, and as the infantry had by this time retired, they were compelled to abandon it. After the enemy were foiled in their first attempt to charge from up the river, they soon rallied, and, led on by Forrest himself; they again moved forward in a solid, motley mass, moving down the river to a point near the jail, and there by the flank up the street toward the southward, then forward in successive lines of battle between our north- ern line of base and the river, filling the whole open space with mounted men and the air with yells of triumph. In an instant the siege gun was doubled-shotted with canister, and turned upon them and discharged, tearing one man to atoms and two horses, within 10 feet of the muzzle. At the same time I ordered my infantry out of the ravine from the west to meet the charge, and right gallantly did they obey. They met the enemy at the crest of the ridge, and the simultaneous discharge of 300 Springfield rifles and a double shot of canister from the siege gun was too much for them; the line gave way and their yells suddenly ceased. The Eighty-third boys with fixed bayonets soon cleared the ground, capturing about 40 prisoners. After gun No. 1 had been taken from its position, near the east end of the rifle-pits, and sent up to the assistance of Lieutenant-Colonel Smith at the graveyard, Company II, which had been supporting it on the left, was ordered to take a position inside the rifle-pits near the south- west corner, where they did good work against the right of the force pressing against Colonel Smith, and at a time when there was danger of his left being turned by the enemy. Company II, Captain Bond, again moved out and occupied a barn and other buildings about midway between the corner of the rifle-pit and Colonel Smiths position, and, using sacks of grain and bales of hay for protection, were successful in keeping the enemy at bay in that quarter. After Company II left the position of gun No. I, Company A moved down and took position at the northeast corner of the rifle-pits, while Company K was posted in the rifle-pits at the southeast, and at the corner of the church, with Company A. Here these tWo companies suc- cessfully repelled two charges, one by cavalry and one by men dis- mounted, the enemy outnumbering us ten to one. In one of these charges Captain Ileed, Company A, was shot dead while doing his duty bravely and encouraging his men in the defense of the position; they held their post till the close of the engagement. In this last charge the rebel Colonel McNairy was shotdown while vainly endeavoring to bring his men forward to the charge. After the repulse of the charge against the siege gun, and after Colo- nel Smith had sent his disabled artillery to the rear, the companies lying in the ravine near the siege gun were ordered forward to the sup- port of Colonel Smiths right, as the enemy were advancing in large numbers over the ridge and down to the river bluff. They moved for- ward in line of battle, driving the enemy before them, until they came within range; the line was halted, volley after volley was delivered until our supply of ammunition was exhausted. While in this position, Capt. John McClanahiau was wounded and Lieutenant [II. D.] Bissell, quar- termaster, shot dead by a cannon-ball. This was about sundown. Our line then moved by the right flank and filed around the point of the ridge and up the river bank to a point occupied by what is known as Mrs. Cables house, where they were sheltered to a great extent by the crest of the bluff. About this time the enemys fire ceased and we lay there in breathless suspense, expecting a last and possibly a successful charge of the enemy, but determined to fight it to the bitter end. Her Page 38 38 KY., MID. AND P. TENN,, -. ALA., AND SW. VA. fGIIAP. XXXV. a happy suggestion was made by Adjutant Casey, wbjch was, that we should charge toward our rifle-pits and ammunition and the three com- panies which had remained there, and, notwithstandino- that the enemy from either flank had well-nigh cut us off from these, the brave boys started on the double-quick, and, with a yell that sent the rebels run- ning in every direction, regained our rifle-pits iu safety. It was now too dark for the enemy~s artillery to injure us, and iu a very few mo- ments the men were disposed around the rifle-pits and ammunition distributed to -them. We could now distinctly see along the whole extent of ridge encir- cling our encampment long lines of rebels, mounted and dismounted, apparently preparing for some new method of attack, but we felt secure. Beyond an eminence near the graveyard we could see collected a large body of men, which I expected would be precipitated upon our weakest point, to wit, the Fort Henry road, the siege gun, like the others, having run short of friction primers and port-fires (this was about sun-down), imperfectly spiked and abandoned; but iu one break of the rifle-pits some 30 men stopped inside of the redoubt, and 1 ordered a com- pany to get behind a field-work which bad been thrown up between two houses and fronting the last-named position of the enemy, and sent an- other company on the southwest corner of the rifle-pits, which corn- manded their position. These three detachments kept up a continuous fire upon the enemy until 8 oclock. They sent in a flab of truce, a bain demanding the surrender of the post, telling us that they had not brought unto action more than half of their forces. We declined any such offers, and informed them that we would not surrender. They then left. The troops fought bravely and seemed fixed with the purpose of victory or death. - It is impossible to distinguish by mentioning some without injustice to others, and, indeed, all who struggled through our seven hours of battle. 1 will mention the cool and daring bravery of my staff; Lieu- tenant-Colonel Smith, Major Brott, and Adjutant Casey; the latter, although wounded by a shot through the arm, kept the field, and sug- gested the last movement we madethe rally upon our trenches; Quartermaster Bissell, of the Eighty-third, and William Thayer, tele- graph operator, through sheets of fire, bore my orders and brought me reports until Bissell fell by my side, mortally wounded (since dead); Lieutenants [E. V Moore and [A. H.] McIntyre, of the artillery (the former has since died of his wounds); Captains Reed and McClanahan, of the Eighty-third. Indeed, all of my officers covered themselves with glory. Company C, of my regiment, led by Lieutenant Gamble Ca tam Cutler being unfortunately absent), held with brave tenacity, with the battery and other companies, the key to our position. This company lost in killed and wounded one-fourth of the whole number on our side. I must also mention Private Sturgis, of the Fifth Iowa Cavalry, who left the command in this battle, as in that of Waverly last summer (where 200 of my regiment fought the enemy under [T. A.] Kapier), and performed in the ranks of my infantry daring deeds of valor. He should have a command. Our loss in the whole command was 13 killed, 51 wounded, and some 20 prisoners. This is exclusive of Captain von Minden and his 26 men, who were captured the same day on a scout. The prisoners have all been paroled except Captain von Minden. The loss of the enemy, according to the best estimate we can make, is 150 killed; their wounde Page 39 GT~Ar. XXXV.] ATTACK ON FORT DONELSON, TENN. 89 at least 600; prisoners, 105, of which over 50 are wounded. We lost one gun, without caissons; 25 mules and 6 horses, belonging to the Eighty-third, were killed and wounded. Floods battery lost 41 horses killed and disabled for service. A barge containing a large quantity of hay belonging to the United States was destroyed. Many soldiers lost their blankets and clothing, which were taken from their quarters by the enemy. I have no accurate list of arms captured; some have been turned over and some have not. I have ordered all to be turned over to the post quartermaster. As soon as I can obtain a list of our loss of arms, I will send to you a rep6rt of the same. A. C. IIAIIDING, Colonel, Commanding. Col. W. W. LowE, ~Jomc1g. U. S. Forces at Forts Henry, fleiman, and Donelson [Inclosures.] HEADQUARTERS CAVALRY, February 3, 1863. Having invested Fort Donelson with a force sufficient to take it, and desiring to prevent the effusion of blood, we have the honor to demand an immediate and unconditional surrender of the fort, with all the forces,stores, & c. If you surrender, you will be treated as prisoners of war; if not, you must abide the consequences. Very respectfully, JOS. WHEELER, Jfajor- Ceneral, Chief clommander. N. B. FORREST Brigadier- Uenerai, Commanding Cavalry Division. JNO. A. WHARTON, Brigadier- (icucral, Commanding Cavalry Division. COMDG. OFFICER OF FORT DONELSON. HEADQUARTERS, Fort Donelson, fPenn., February 3, 1863. I decline to surrender the forces under my command or the post with- out an effort to defend them. I have the honor to be, your obedient servant, A. C. IJAIIDING, Colonel, Commanding Eighty- third Illinois Volunteers. General WHEELER. No. 5. Report of ]lJiaj. Gen. Joseph Wheeler, C. S. Army, commanding expedition. HEADQUARTERS CAVALRY, February , 1863. COLONEL: I have the honor to report that, in obedience to instruc- tions, 1 ordered General Whartons and a portion of General Forrest Page 40 40 KY., MID. AND P. TENN., N. ALA., AND SW. VA. [CllA~. XX~. brigades to pioceed, with a full complement of ammunition, to the most favorable position on the Cumberland Itiver, to interrupt the navigation as far as practicable. I overtook the command after it had passed Franklin, and hastened on to the river to ascertain the state of affairs and the most favorable field of action. I here learned that the enemy, being apprised of onr presence on the river, had determined not to send any more boats either up or down the river while we remained in position to interrupt their passage. The scarcity of forage made it impossible for me to remain long on the south side of the river, and all the ferry-boats above Dover had been destroyed. I accordingly had but the alternative to remain idle or attack the force at Dover. After maturely considering the matter, we concluded that nothing could be lost by attack upon the garrison at Dover, and, from the infor- ination we had from spies, citizens, and other sources, we had good reason to believe the garrison could be easily captured. We accordingly marched rapidly npon the place by two roads, and arrived in position at about 2 p. m. February 3, and commenced the attack, General Forrest assailing on the east side and Genera] XYhartoi~ on the west and southwest sides. I marched to the ground with General Forrests command, but, after getting him in position, I moved to Gen- eral ~ brigade, which was the largest, to hasten him into the action. The ground was very favorable to our artillery, as it commanded from all points the town below, and enfiladed two sides of their rifle-pits, besides having a plunging fire into all parts of the work, which enabled us to use it with excellent effect. After making the necessary details for guarding the approaches from Fort Henry and our rear, the order was that the men should be dis- mounted and the assault made on foot. Jnst as I left General Forrest to assist General Wharton, General Forrest, thinking the enemy were leaving the place, and being anxious to rush in quickly, m~emounted his men and charged the place on horseback. The fire from the enemy was so strong that he was repulsed and obliged to retire. He then dis- mounted and advanced on foot. His men took and occupied the houses on the east side of the town, and had a plunging fire of musketry on the enemy. At this moment the enemy commenced running out toward the river, and our men in the houses seeing this, and thinking it to be a movement on our held horses, abandoned their favorable position, and rushed back to protect them. But for this accident the garrison would have surrendered in a very few minutes. General Forrest then with- drew and discontinued the action. On the left, General Whartons command easily drove the enemy into their works, overrunning a fine battery which was engaging us, killing and wounding many of the enemy, and capturing several prisoners, small-arms, and other munitions and stores. The enemy had cut the harness and stampeded the horses, which prevented our bringing off the entire battery. We succeeded, however, in bringing off one very fine 12-pounder brass rifled gun, but the others were necessarily left. Soon after the engagement commenced, several of the regimental com- manders reported to me that they were out of ammunition, and before night all the command were in the same condition. Notwithstanding this difficulty, we had by nightfall succeeded in ocenpying the west side of town, and had a secure position not more than 90 yards from th Page 41 CHAr. XXXY.3 41 ATTACK ON FORT DONELSON, TENN. main rifle-pits of the enemy. While occupying thi~ position, we burned a large boat lying in the river loaded with provisions. At about this time General Forrest came around and joined General Wharton and myself, leaving his command at some distance from the town. After carefully surveying the works and the garrison, we finally concluded they were too strongly posted to continue the attack any further that night with success. At this time re-enforcements had attacked our guards, and a large force (not less than 5,000 strong) were moving rapidly up the river in transports, guarded by gunboats. At 8 oclock, the enemy having ceased firing an hour before, and we being directly in front of their works, concluded, considering all the circumstances, that it would be better to retire. Accordingly we moved off in an orderly manner, the enemy not firing a gnu. After mounting, we moved off slowly, and the gunboats commenced a heavy fire without any effect whatever and without causing a man to increase his gait from a slow walk. We then sent details of dismounted men back, who thoroughly searched the ground close to the enemys works for wounded men. These details remained on the ground until morning without seeing any enemy on the east or south side of the works. The re- enforcements came in just as our main body left the ground, but did not attempt to follow us outside of their works. The following day I learned of the force sent out to intercept our return, and after sending out scouts and finding the force was advanc- ing on our front, while the 5,000 men in my rear were enabled to land at any point and attack, we concluded, considering the state of our am- munition, it was our duty to move south of Duck River to replenish. We accordingly sent a scout by way of Charlotte to deceive the enemy, while with the remainder of the command I moved over the river at Centreville. Our loss in the engagement was about 100 in killed and wounded, the loss of the enemy in killed and wounded being quite equal to ours.* We captured about 80 prisoners, including 3 captains and 2 lieutenants; also 2 wagons and an ambulance, and about 100 horses and mules, a fine 12-pounder brass rifled gun, and destroyed a large boat loaded with pro- visions. The unfortunate circumstance of our having so little ammunition I cannot attribute to any want of energy or care on the part of subordinate commanders. After they received my orders to carry the full comple- ment, every exertion was used by them to supply the deficiency, but without success; and afterward receiving orders to march, they thought it better to start as they were rather than to delay. Yery respectfully, colonel, your obedient servant, JOS. WHEELER, Major. General, and Chief of Cavalry. Col. GEORGE WILLIAM BRENT, Assistant Adjutant- General. P. 5.The force with which we attacked the enemy did not exceed 1,000. The strength of the enemy was quite equal to ours. * Nominal list shows the casualties in Whartons command to have been 1 officer (Lient. E. F. Coffee, Third Confederate Cavalry) and 16 men killed, 9 officers and 51 men wounded, and S men missing. Aggregate, 85 Page 42 42 KY., Mu). AND F. TENN., N. ALA., AND SW. VA. iCITAT. XXXV. FEBRUARY 3-~5, 1863.~Expedition from Nurfreesborough to Auburn, Liberty, and Alexandria, Tenn. REPORTS. No. 1.Maj. Gen. Joseph J. Reynolds, U. S. Army, commanding Fifth Division, Four- teentli Army Corps. No. 2.Lient. Col. Douglas A. Murray, Third Ohio Cavalry, commanding Second Cavalry Brigade. No. 3.Capt. John T, Deweese, Fourth Indiana Cavalry. No. 1. Report of ]Jliaj. Gen. Joseph J. Reynolds, U. S. Army, commanding Fifth Division, Fourteenth Army Corps. HDQRS. FIFTH DIVISION, FOURTEENTH ARMY CORPS, Mur/reesborough, Febmary 8, 1863. MAJOR: II have the honor to submit the accompanying report of the operations of the recent expedition of the Fifth Division, Fourteenth Army Corps: Left Murfreesborongh February 3, 1863, with the following force, viz: First Brigade, Colonel [J. T.] Wilder; Second Brigade, Colonel [A. S.] Hall; Lillys Eighteenth Indiana Battery, six guns, Captain [E.] Lilly; Harris Nineteenth Indiana Battery, four guns, Captain [S. J.~ flarris; two mountain howitzers, Lieutenant [W. B.] iRippetoe, of the Eighteenth Battery; and detachments of the Third Ohio Cavalry, Major Paramore; Fourth Ohio Cavalry, Lieutenant-Colonel [J. L.] Pugh; Third Indiana Cavalry, Captain [~1. F.] Herriott, and Fourth Indiana Cavalry, Captain [J. T.] Deweese; in all about 3,600 men. When about 8 miles from Murfreesborough, on the Auburn pike, the advance guard reported rebel cavalry in sight. The body proved to be a scouting party of the enemy, son~e 30 strong, who retired as we ad. vanced, without an exchange of shots. The position was such that we could not get round and capture them. We encamped the night of the 3d at Auburn, 21 miles from Murfreesborough by the lower pike. As. certained that a rebel camp was situated at the forks of the roads, about 2k miles west of Liberty. Made an early start on the 4th, hoping to encounter the enemy in that position. After marching some 3 miles, met the enemys cavalry outpost, about 150 strong. Skirmishing be- tween this advance and our cavalry continued for some 2 miles, but not at short range, during which we wounded 1 rebel. This advance party retired to the main camp, partially destroying bridge over Smiths Fork, which, being fordable, did not impede our progress. We pushed on to the enemys camp, and found it had been hastily vacated, and that they had retreated toward Liberty. Sent cavalry in pursuit, and drove them beyond Liberty. Moved with my main body through Alexandria, about 15 miles from Auburn, and encamped. Found here some flour and bacon belonging to the rebels, of which we took possession. The loyal people stated that the mills at Alexandria and Liberty, although occasionally im- pressed for the use of the rebels, were of. great benefit to them, and I did not order their destruction. On the 5th, moved with main body toward Lebanon, and sent the de- tachment of Fourth Indiana Cavalry, under Captain Deweese, to New Middleton, on the Carthage pike, some 6 miles south of Carthage, with orders to destroy the machinery of a large mill. This mill had for a long time been used exclusively for the rebels, and was of no use to th Page 43 A ChAr. XXXV.] EXPEDITION TO AUBURN, LIBERTY, ETC. loyal inhabitants; in fact, it was nsed for grinding the brain of the loyal People to make food for rebels. The machinery was effectually destroyed, and also a large quantity of wheat and flour found in the mill. We encamped the evening of the 5th on Spring Creek, 4 miles east of Lebanon. Three of our infantry went a short distance outside the lines to get some straw for bedding (we had no tents, and the weather was very inclement), and were pounced upon and taken off by a small squad of rebel cavalry. Lieutenant Green, commanding my headquarters pro- vost guard, took some 8 or 10 men and gave chase. After a race of 7 miles, overtook the rebels, recovered all of our men, and brought back 1 prisoner. During the day of the 5th, destroyed a quantity of rebel bacon and flour, which we could not transport; also 3 wabons and contents, loaded with flour, bacon, and sundries, on the way to the rebel camp, but which had been hidden in the woods on learning of our approach. On the 6th, marched the main body through Lebanon, which was occupied on the night of the 5th by the One hundred and twenty-third Illinois Volunteers, Colonel [James] Monroe, and encamped at Bairds Mills, on the pike to Murfreesborough. This morning sent out cavalry on the New Middleton road, to cross back on to the Alexandria road, and catch rebel hangers-on in our rear; also on road to Rome, as far as Big Spring, and on road to Gallatin. All these parties joined main camp at Bairds Mills in the evening~ At Lebanon found and brought away some 8,000 pounds of bacon, stored there for rebel nse. On the 7th, marched from Bairds Mills to Murfreesborough (19 miles), crossing East Fork of Stones River on bridge of wagons, and made our camp after dark. Five miles from Bairds Mills, our train was fired into by a body of rebel cavalry, about 150 strong. They caine out of thick cedars, which abound in that vicinity; delivered one fire at random, and then ran. The fire was returned by the infantry escort, the One hundred and twenty-third Illinois Volunteers, Colonel Monroe. We wounded several of the rebels at this point, and took I prisoner. Tw~ shells from one of Harris guns dispersed a body of men and horses from an open space in the woods; they ran precipitately, leaving behind several saddles, & c., and a large quantity of blood. Precise damage done them could not be ascertained. We had 1 man very slightly wounded. During the jrip, at various points, we captured 43 prisoners, repre- senting various corps in the rebel service, more than 300 animals, about 50 beef cattle, besides destroying the subsistence stores above named. We had 5 men reported missing on coming into camp; they bad strag- gled or are prisoners. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, J. J. REYNOLDS, ]Iiliajor- General, Commanding Division. Maj. GEORGE E. FLYNT, Chief of Staff, Fourtee~mth Corps. No. 2. Report of Lient. Col. Douglas A. ]Vfurray, Third Ohio Cavalry, command- irtg Second Cavalry Brigade. HEADQUARTERS SECOND CAVALRY BRIGADE, Camp Stanley, Tenn., February 8, 1863. GENERAL: I have the honor to report, for your information, the part taken by a portion of the Second Cavalry J3rigade, consisting of th Page 44 44 KY., MID. AND E. TENN., N. ALA., A~D SW. VA. [CHAP. XXXV. Third and Fourth Ohio Cavalry, with (ietaChmeIlts of the Third and Fourth Indiana Cavalry, from the 3d to the 7th of February, 1803, while attached to the command of Brigadier-General [J. J.] Reynolds. Joined the command of the general on the morning of the 3d, and proceeded in rear of the command till about 4 miles to the front of our pickets on the Liberty pike, when the cavalry, with the exception of the Fourth Indiana, were ordered to the front as advance guard, and to push on to Auburn, and, if possible, to Prosperity Church, about ~A miles beyond it. The general learning that the enemy were there in strong force, we moved carefully, with a strong advance and flank guard, without any interruption, as far as ordered. Hearing that about 30 rebel cavalrymen had moved at a rapid pace along the road toward the church half an hour ahead of us, we did not succeed in coming up with them. Therefore, in compliance with instructions, returned to Auburn and encamped one-half mile in front of the command, throwing out pickets on the Liberty pike, both front and rear, Woodhury dirt road, and both flanks, taking almost the entire command to furnish the requisite number. Nothing occurred during the night worthy of mentioning. Next morning, at daylight, moved on in advance toward Liberty, driv- ing in a picket of the enemy, consisting of about 50 or 60 men. About 2~ miles this side of Liberty, we passed over on the road that led to Alexandria , where also a small body of the enemy were seen, and a re- port that the enemy were in force to our right, which was without foun- dation. Passed through Alexandria, and encamped about 3 miles from it on the Lebanon pike, throwing out strong pickets front and rear. The pickets reported hearing that small bands of rebel cavalry were in the country, consisting of from 5 to 10 in number, plundering and steal- ing all they could lay their hands on, and committing all manner of dep- redations. Moved early next morning in the advance. Received orders to send scouting parties both on Rome and Gallatin pikes, to proceed about 8 miles on both these roads. The Third Ohio Cavalry, consisting of 100 men, took the former, under command of Maj. J. W. Paramore, and made several important arists, viz, General R. Anderson, senator; Col. W. L. Martin, representative; W. B. Pursley and John Cox, con- script agents, and G. A. Pursley, lieutenant so-called C. S. Army, be- sides 3 enlisted men. The Fourth Ohio Cavalry, under command of Major [C. C-.] Megrue, consisting of 100 men, took the Gallatin pike, and made several arrests. The entire command, with, the balance of the cavalry in advance, proceeded through Lebanon, and took the Mur- freesborough pike as far as Bairds Mills, and encamped, throwing out pickets to the front on the road and roads leading from the main road as soon as we arrived in camp. About one-half hour after the arrival of the command, reported currently there that Morgan with his command would to a certainty make a strong attack upon us at Stones River next day, which turned out to be, like the majority of such reports, without foundation. Received orders from General Reynolds to send 50 men as an escort to an officer and 5 men, who were to carry a dispatch to General Thomas. The escort had orders to proceed to the river and see the dispatch party across and then return. They met with no inter- ruption, neither saw anything to indicate that any forces were in that vicinity, and arrived at camp about 8 p. m. Left camp next morning in advance, and proceeded to Stones River without the least interruption of any kind; crossed the river, which was fordable; the water about 3 or 3~- feet deep, with a very strong current. Received orders to return to the command, and recrossed. the river, the rear portion of the train being fired into by a party of rebels, supposed to number about 120 or 130 Page 45 45 (iixr. XXXV.] EXPEDITION TO AUBUgN, LIBEl~TY, ETC. men, who, after firing, retreated and fled in every direction, I was told. When we recrossed the river, and met the command advancing, ordered again by the general to proceed in the advance to the river, and not cross over until the entire command did so. I threw out strong pickets to the rear and flanks, which I did not withdraw until the entire coim mand had passed over the river, which they did by means of a bridge formed by wagons. We had two small pieces of mountain howitzers with our brigade, which the lieutenant in charge informed me that Gen- eral Reynolds said to him might with his section remain with us. It appears from all I heard that Colonel Wilder will not allow it, as he claims them as his, and wishes them to accompany his brigade (infantry) when they are mounted; which is the intention, I believe. They would be a great acquisition to us, and, if possible, if I cannot obtain those, I hear that there are several such pieces in Nashville, Tenn. Could I not, on your recommendation, procure a section of such guns ~ I could easily man them, having a number of old artillerymen in the command. Our horses had ample forage during the scout; worked very hard, and traveled over a large section of country. The country passed through was principally hilly, the roads good, and, with the exception of the bridge over Stones River, the different bridges on the road were in good order. Our command returned last evening about 8.30 oclock. Our casualties were 6 enlisted men, 1 of the Third Ohio Cavalry, 5 of the Fourth Ohio Cavalry, supposed to be captured by the enemy. The command picked up some flue-looking horses and mules, 91 of the former and 19 of the latter. I have the honor to be, very respectfully, your obedient servant, D. A. MURRAY, Lient. Col. Third Ohio Cavalry, Corn dg. Second Cay. Brigade. Brig. Gen. D. S. STANLEY, Commanding Cavalry. No. 3. Report of Capt. John T. Deweese, Fourth Indiana Cavalry. IIDQRS. FIRsT BATTALION, FOURTH INDIANA CAVALRY, Murfreesborough, Teun., February 10, 1863. LIEUTENANT: In obedience to orders from brigade headquarters, on the morning of the 3d of this month I reported to Major-General Rey nolds, commanding the Fifth Division of this army. My command con- sisted of 125 men, being parts of Companies A, B, C, D, and B, of this; regiment. On the 3d and 4th instant nothing of importance occurred worthy of note. We marched each day 25 miles without any opposition from the enemy, camping on the night of the 3d at Auburn and on the 4th at. Alexandria. On the morning of the 5th, in pursuance to orders from Major-Gen- cral Reynolds, I left the road occupied by the main column of our march, and mi~marched due north 94 miles, on the Midway pike, to Elesins Mill. where the rebel army had collected a large amount of wheat and corn, and were grinding it for their own use. The enemy, having heard of our approach, fled before we eutered the village. We imumediately proceeded to destroy the mill by tearing and breaking the machinery, so as to render it entirely unserviceable for months. W Page 46 46 KY., MID. AND E. TENN., N. ALA., AND SW. VA. [CHAr. XXXV. also captured and destroyed about 30,000 pounds of flour, sacked up for army use, and about 600 bushels of wheat and corn. After resting our horses we started for Lebanon, at which place we encamped for the iiight. Oii our way from the mill we were closely followed by some 700 of Breckinridges men; but, taking things coolly, we recaptured and bnrned three of the wagon.s taken from our army at the fight at llartsville; also 7 prisoners aud their arms, and 22 horses and 3 mules. Our loss was 2 privates from Company C, captured by being allowed to straggle behind the rear guard by the officer who commanded the same. One of the prisoners captured turned out to be a rebel mail-carrier, only thirty-six hours from Tullahoma, having in his possession valnable information of the movements of the enemy. On the morning of the 6th, we took up onr line of march for our camp, at which place we arrived at 9 oclock at night, making a march of over 200 miles in four days, the men sleeping without tents and sub- sisting on half-rations. My thanks are due to the officers and men, without exception, for the cool and determined manner in which they behaved themselves while pursned by a force seven times their number, and more than fifteen miles from our army, and in a country where we were all strangers and the enemy were thoroughly posted on the nature of the country. On our line of march we were warmly greeted by the friends of the Union, and at the town of Alexandria we were treated to a sight of our glorious old flag, which a lady had successfully hidden during the reign of terror nuder the rebel General Bragg. We found forage and provisions of all kinds plentiful, and the coun- try well watered and amply able to support au army for its own pro. tection of 15,000 or 20,000. With great respect, lieutenant I ur fellow officer and grate. ful friend, , remain JNO. T. DEWEESE, Captain, Commanding First Ba tta lion, Fourth Indiana Cavalry. Lieutenant [JOHN G.j WEBSTER, Acting Assistant Adjutant- General, Third 61avalry Brigade. FEBRUARY 4, 1863.Skirmish near Murfreesborough, Teun. Reports of Brig. Gem Richard W. Johnson, U. ~ Army. HEADQUARTERS TWENTIETH ARMY CORPS, February 4, 1863. The firing to the front to-day was my foraging party driving rebel cavalry. We got all the forage we wanted. I went out and joined the party, and ordered a brigade out to support it. When we advanced upon them, we would fall back. I tried to get them to follow me, and ambushed a brigade to catch them, but they would not follow. We need cavalry on these expeditious. We had 4 men wounded, 3 badly. One shell carried away the legs of 2 men. hi. W. JOHNSON, Colonel GODDARD, Brif/adier- General. Assistant Adjutant- General Page 47 CHAP. XXXV.] SKIRMISHES NEAR AUBURN, TENN. 47 HEADQUARTERS TWENTIETH CORPS, February 4, 1863. The firing was on my front, and done by a party of rebel Cavalry against a foraging party from Second Division. I repaired to the i)laCe myself, and, on my return, reported by telegraph to general command- ing, through his chief of staft~ H. W. JOHNSON, Brigadier- General. [Major] FRANK S. BOND, [Aide-dc-Camp.] FEBRUARY 7, 1863.Skirmish near Murfreesborough, Tenn. Report of Brig. Gen. Richard W. John8on, U. S. Army. HEADQUARTERS TWENTIETH CORPS, February 7, 1863. My foraging party has been skirmishing all day. Nothing serious. I have sent out a brigade to support; if necessary, I am going out myself. H. XV. JOHNSON, Brigadier- General of Volunteers. Major-General HOSEURANS. FEBRUARY 15, 1863.Skirmishes near Auburn, Tenn. - Report of Brig. Gen. David S. Stanley, U. S. Army. HEADQUARTERS CAVALRY, Near itiiurfreesborough, February 16, 1863. COLONEL: I have the honor to inform you that the Second Michigan, commanded by Lieutenant-Colonel [F.] Fowler, returned at 2 p. m. He proceeded 3 miles beyond Auburn, charging and driving the rebels from a bridge they were destroying on the road leading to Liberty. The enemy attacked him at 8 p. m. last evening. He repulsed them, killing 2 horses, and hearing the groans of their wounded, and excla- mations that I am killed! Does not know their loss. He has captured 4 prisoners belongiug to the Tenth Kentucky. His loss is I man taken and 1 man wounded in the fleshy part of the thigh. In my opinion, Morgans main force is not in that vicinity. If I am mis- taken, by this time to-morrow I can collect force enough to attack and dislodge him. I am, very respectfully, your obedient servant, D. S. STANLEY, Brigadier- General ~ ad (7liiof of (7arairy~ C /. ~JULFI)AJXIJ, Assistant Adjutant- General Page 48 48 KY., MID. AND E. TENN., N~ ALA., AND SW. VA. [CHAP. XXXV~ FEBRUARY 16, 1863..~Skirmish near Cainsville, Tenn. RX~POt~TS. No. 1.Maj. Gen. William S. Roseerans, U. S. Army. No. 2.Col. James Monroe, One hundred and twenty-third Illinois Infantry. No. 1. Miaj. Gen. William S. Rosecrans, U. S. Army. MURPREESBOROUGH, TENN., February 22, 18638 p. m. Lientenant.Colonel Monroe, with 200 picked men, killed 20 or 30, and captnred 75 stand of arms. We have many spirited cavalry skirmishes every week. They terminate well for us. I think the time will come when we shall be able to cope with their superior numbers. Their numbers, knowledge of the country, and unsparing thieving and con- scription have hitherto supplied them with horses. They now propose to mount more infantry on horses to be gotten from Kentucky. The roads are now very bad; almost impossible to move wagons, except on macadamized roads. The rebel position has been given in telegram to Geheral ilalieck; report that they have had bad luck with one of their bridges on the Nashville and Chattanooga road beyond the Tennessee. A few more of the same sort will be a serious inconvenience to our Southern brethren, and may disappoint onr Butternut friends at home. W. S. ROSECRANS. lion. E. M. STANTON, iS~ecretary of War. No. 2. Report of Cot. James Monroe, One hundred and twenty-third Illinois Infantry. IIDQRs. 123D REGIMENT ILLINOIS YOLIJNTEERS, Murfreesborough, ffenn., February 17, 1863. In compliance with orders from division headquarters, I started on Thursday, 12th instant, at 12 in., with 240 men of the One hundred and twenty-third Illinois Infantry aud 20 of Colonel Stokes cavalry, under the command of Captain [T.] Waters, on a scout into the country north of the East Fork and between the Lebanon and Sparta pikes. Arrived at 4p. m. near the river, and encamped. Learning that 160 mounted rebels had passed up the Las Casas pike late in the evening, started at 12 oclock at night in pursuit. Arrived near Milton at daylight, and found the cavalry had gone on toward Liberty without halting. IDi- vided my command into three parties, and scoured the country, wound- ing 2 and capturing 5 rebels, and returned to old camp at night. Was fired on near a still-house at the junction of the Las Casas and Cainsville pikes; march, 26 miles. Night dark and stormy; could not move. Next morning (Saturday) a small party of rebel cavalry crossed the river and fired on General Woods cavalry pickets. Sent a small party across the river and cut them off, killing 3. Crossed the river again Sunday moruing and moved toward Milton, ex- pecting to be joined by 300 of Second Michigan Cavalry. Learning fro Page 49 ChAP. XXXV.] SKIRMISH NEAR NOLENSYILLE, TENN. 49 Union men and negroes that Morgan was at Cainsville with 3,000 men, and that 250 men, nnder Captain Buchanan, were posted on the Las Casas pike, near Milton, I moved to the junction of the pikes and halted. I secreted the infantry and sent the cavalry forward to burn a couple of still.houses and endeavor to provoke an attack. Illemained in this posi- tion until 1 p. in., when, the expected cavalry force not arriving, I coun- terinarched the command, moved down the Jefferson pike 2 miles, and turned to the right, following a chain of hills iu the direction of Cams- yule, and fonnd large quantities of forage secreted in the valley. A short tune after leaving the pike I became satisfied we were followed, and, having arrived within 2~ miles of Cainsville, I left the road and moved to the right, around, and finally to the top of; Pierces Hill, sending out into the valley a few mounted men as decoys. In a few minutes they were fired upon by a cavalry force under Colonel [Adam 11.] Johnson, variously estimated at from 300 to 500. Our men re- treated, and were closely followed by the rebels. When they arrived within 60 yards, we opened upon them, and drove them at once down the hill and into a narrow, muddy lane, where, for ten minutes, we poured a fire into their flanks, cutting them up terribly. Muskets, shot-guns, and carbines, saddles, blankets, and loose horses were everywhere, and the survivors, panic-stricken, spurred over the hills in the direction of Cainsville. Many of them wore our overcoats, and some of them were completely clothed in our uniform. Their loss in killed and wounded must have been at least 50, and, I think, much greater, but the necessity of an immediate retreat pre- vented a thorough examination of the field. I saw several dead, and all were left without stripping the bodies or emptying the pockets. After breaking at least one hundred carbines, and picking up a few horses and mules, we moved at once toward camp, crossing the river between the two pikes at a very deep ford. Our loss is nothing. Three men slightly wounded, but none seriously hurt or unfitted for dut~. We have as results 6 prisoners, 22 horses, 5 mules, 17 saddles and bridles,10 carbines, and S muskets. Captain Waters and his men deserve great praise for their conduct under fire~, and I could not have been successful without their assist- ance. Dr. [P. P.] Whitesell, of the One hundred and first Indiana, who kindly accompanied me, forgot himself in the m~l6e, and was found, at the close of the fight, at the head of the column, musket in hand. Came into camp Monday morning. All of-which is respectfully submitted. JAMES MONROE, Colonel, Comdg. One hundred and twenty-third Illinois Volunteers. Maj. GEORGE E. FLYNT, Chief of Staff, Fourteenth Army Corps. FEBRUARY 15, 1863.Skirmish near Nolensville, Tenn. Report of Brig. Gem James B. Steedman, U. iS~ Army, commanding Third Division, Fourteenth Army Corps. CoNCoRD Cuurw~, February 15, 1863. CoLoNEL: A forage train of 10 wagons from my command, with es- cort of two companies of inthntry, and while 4 of the wagons, guarded 4 R EYOL XXIII, PT Page 50 50 KY., MID. AND F. TENN., N. ALA., ANI) SW. VA. [(ThAi. XXXV. by 113 privates, under command of a sergeant, were being loaded, 1~ miles from Nolensville, were attacked by 150 rebel cavalry. The ser- geant immediately formed his men, took shelter in a cabin close to the wagons, and repulsed them, wounding 5 (3 of whom I have pris- oners), killing 4 horses, capturing 3 horses, 7 saddles, an d3guns. Two of our men were slightly wounded. I started the First East Tennessee Cavalry, under command of Lieutenant-Colonel Brownlow, in pursuit, ordering four companies toward the railroad. I learn, reliably, that Van Dorn, with a large body of cavalry, was at Chapel Hill last night, extending his advance to College Grove. I will watch him. Very respectfully, [JAMES B. STEEDMAK,] Col. C. GODDARD, Brigadier-General, Third Division. Assistant Adjutant- General and Chief of Staff. COLONEL: Operator at La Vergne says no name was signed to above; simply brigadier-general. P. M., Qperator. FEBRUARY 18MARCH 6, 1863.Operations in Central Kentucky, in- cluding skirmishes (February 22) at Coombs Ferry, (February 24) at Stoner Bridge, and (March 2) at Slate Creek, near Mount Sterling. REPORTS. No. 1.Col. Benjamin P. Runkle, Forty-fifth Ohio Infantry, commanding brigade. No. 2.Maj. John M. Brown, Tenth Keutuejiy Cavalry. No. 3~Maj. Augustus Norton, Seventh Ohio Cavalry. No. 4.Capt. Emanuel Kauffman, One hundredth Ohio Infantry. No. 1. Peports of Col. Be~amin P. Runkle, Forty-fifth Ohio Infantry, com manding brigade. MOuNT STERLING, Kin., February 26, 1863. GENERAL: Your dispatch received. The rebels had a heavy guard out here, and made a show of fighting; but when we fired on them they rang the bells in town and all went out in a huddle. They galloped 9 miles on the pike, with the Tenth Kentucky on their heels. They then took to a terrible mud road through the jack-oak country. Our horses gave out, and we coul(l go no farther. We captured 100 horses and mules. Rebels burned their wagons and threw away everything they had stolen. We heard heavy firing yesterday below here iu direction of Jefferson- ville. Snppose Miner has cut them off, which I ordered him to do. I have just learned that they came back yesterday as near as 13 miles, and stopped. They said when here that Pegram was coming to re- enforce them. I am out of rations, an(l must come toward Lexington for them. I will leave here, going toward Winchester, as soon as 11 determine that they have gone out of the country. If Miner is behind them, I will cap- ture them, and will remain here until I Ijud out about the matter Page 51 CHAr. XXXV.] OPERATIONS IN CENTRAL KENTUCKY. 51 If Marshall or Pegram is coming, here is the place to fight them. No use killing my horses running them through the mountains until It know what ths~y are about. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, BEN. P. RUNKLE, Colonel, Commanding. Brig. Gen. Q. A. GILLMORE, Lexington, Ky. MOUNT STERLING-, Ky., March ~, 1863. I have the honor to report the part taken by the Second Brigade, Army of Central Kentucky, in driving the rebel force, under Colonel [R. S.] Cluke, from the State of Kentucky. Information having been received that the rebels were crossing the Cumberland River at StingalPs Ferry, below Somerset, I was ordered by the commanding general to move on to Crab Orchard with all my effective force. I moved on the evening of February 20, with a part of the Forty- fifth Regiment Ohio Volunteer Infantry, part ~f the Tenth Kentucky Cavalry, and Marshs howitzer battery. Marched 6 miles, and encamped on Hanging Fork. Marched at daylight on the morning of the 21st, by way of Stanford and Crab Orchard; was joined at Stanford by a battalion of the Seventh Ohio Cavalry, Major [A.] Norton commanding. Reached Crab Orchard about noon, aud was joined there by Colonel [I.] Garrard with two bat- talions of the Seventh Ohio Cavalry. Having no orders to proceed farther than Crab Orchard, and it being uncertain which road the rebels would go from Somerset, I sent forward a scouting party from Crab Orchard. On the morning of the 22d, received conflicting reports concerning the whereabouts of the rebels. I sent Lieutenant-Colonel [G. G.] Miner, with 300 men, to Mount Vernon, the most reliable information pointing to that place as the most important point of the rebel route. On the evening of the 22d, a courier from Colonel Miner informed me that the rebels had moved toward Richmond. At the same time re- ceived the order of the general commanding that the rebels must be fol- lowed up, and must not be permitted to get out of the State. At the same time received a dispatch from Colonel [S. A.] Gilbert, commanding First Brigade, that the Forty-fourth Ohio Volunteer Infantry (400 mounted men) was at Danville, and asking me if I wanted them. I immediately ordered the major commanding a detachment of the Forty-fifth Ohio Volunteer Infantry, with two howitzers, to join Lieutenant-Colonel Miner and ordered Colonel Miner to cut off the retreat of the rebels. I received a dispatch from the general commanding that the ferries on the Kentucky River had been attended to. The bridge over Dicks River, at Crab Orchard, had been burned in the summer, and the river was impassable. I therefore telegraphed to Colonel Gilbert to send me the Forty-fourth Ohio Infantry to meet me at Stanford, and I moved toward Richmond by way of Stanford and Lancaster. Received a dispatch from Colonel Gilbert that the Forty-fourth Ohio Volunteer Infantry would meet me at Lancaster, going by the way of Camp Dick Robinson, and would meet me at Ga. m. on the morning of the 23d. The Forty-fourth Ohio, under Lient. Colonel [H. B.] Wilson, did not come until 12 in., and numbered 205 men. Notwithstanding my force was smaller than Page 52 52 KY., MID. AND E. TENN., N. ALA., AND SW. VA. [CHAP. XXXV. expected, I determined to move on the enemy at Richmond. Believing the ferries to be gnarded, and that Lieutenant-Colonel Miner would be able to cut off his retreat, I was confident of cutting the enemy to pieces between Richmond and the river. When I arrived at Richmond, I found the enemy had crossed the river at Clays Ferry and Boonesborough, and moved toward Winchester, avowing their intention of burning the Paris bridge. I was farther informed they had destroyed the ferries behind them. My men were weary, and many of their horses were un- shod. I received further intelligence also that the rebels had destroyed the Clay and Boonesborough Ferries. I sent forward Captain [W. D.] Ratcliffe, Tenth Kentucky Cav~tlry, to reconnoiter and report to me the condition of the ferries. Captain Ratcliffe reported to me that they were all right. As soon as the horses could be shod and put in marching trim, I sent forward Lieutenant-Colonel Wilson with the detachment of his regi- ment, Tenth Kentucky Cavalry, and the battery, to cross the river at Boonesborough Ferry. I then waited until I saw my train put in mo- tion and the Seventh Ohio Cavalry reshod their horses. I sent back to iDanville, under command of Major [J.] Mclntire, some of the Seventh Ohio Cavalry, reported to me by Colonel Garrard unable to march. I then moved the Seventh Ohio Cavalry to Clays Ferry and crossed the Kentucky River. I ordered Lieutenant-Colonel Wilson to form junction with me at Winchester and move forward to that place. I gave orders to destroy the ferries, to prevent the enemy from doubling back on me and escaping across the Kentucky River. This order was countermanded by the general commanding. On arriving at Winchester, at 12 midnight on the 24th, I found the enemy had left Winchester that afternoon, and that Lieutenant-Colonel Wilson, with his portion of my command, was moving on the Mount Sterling road in rear of them. I pushed forward, and joined him 4 miles from Mount Sterling about 3 oclock on the morning of the 25th. Previous to my joining Lieutenant-Colonel Wilson, and about half way between Winchester and Mount Sterling, he hada night skirmish with a part of Clukes command. The enemy had posted between 150 and 200 men at Stoner Bridge, intending to ambush my command. They were discovered, however, by the advance guard, and fired on. They immediately opened fire, but the darkness of the night prevented their doing mnch damage. The enemy immediately advanced upon the main body, but the energy and activity of Colonel Wilson, who brought np the Forty-fourth Ohio Infantry, and the coolness of Major [J. M.] Brown, who held them in check, frustrated their attempts, and, on the appearance of the Forty- fourth Ohio, the enemy broke and fled. We lost 1 man, of the Tenth Kentucky Cavalry, shot through the lungs. The loss of the enemy I am unable to state, as they left but 1 man dead and 1 wounded. The rebel prisoners report more. Onr igno- rance of the character of the country and the situation of the town pre- vented my nearer approach to Mount Sterling until daybreak. At daybreak on the 25th, I moved forward to Mount Sterling. About 2 miles from Mount Sterling I met citizens who informed me that the enemy were retreating, and that the rear guard had just passed within 1 mile of Mount Sterling. A courier from my advance informed me that the enemy had halted and formed a line 1 mile this side of Mount Sterling. Believing this to l)e their rear guard, and nothing else, and wishing to drive them out as speedily as possible, I ordered Captain ~. B.] Marsh to throw a shel Page 53 ChAr. XXXV.1 OPERATIONS IN CENTRAL KENTUCKY. 53 among them. The shell exploding in their immediate vicinity tliey broke and fled. They did not number over 25 or 30 men. Being ignorant of the nature of the country, and not knowing the whereabouts of the enemy, I then ordered ont my skirmishers and ad- vanced upon the town. When approaching the outskirts of the town, I was met by a citizen, who informed me that the rebels were beyond the town and retreating. I immediately ordered forward the Tenth Ken- tucky Cavalry, remounted my infantry, and pushed forward in pursuit. On nearing their camp, the enemy made a show of resistance, but, im- mediately on the approach of my command, fled. My command had marched rapidly 100 miles, the Tenth Kentucky 135 miles. The horses were weary and jaded; they had scarcely any rest since the 20th. The rebels were well mounted on fresh horses. It was useless to pursue.. I, however, ordered Major Brown to pursue them as far as Tick Town, his horses being in the best condition. This he did, capturing a number of prisoners and a number of Government horses and mules, which the rebels were unable to drive off. I then went into camp at Mount Sterling, and remained there until the afternoon of the 26th. 1 here received your order congratulating me on getting my command safely across the Kentucky Itiver. I then learned that the rebels were strongly posted over Slate Creek, 13 miles from Mount Sterling. At their position there was a deep stream in front, passable at but one point. On my side there was an almost impenetra- ble forest; on the rebel side a steep slope and open ground for 300 yards, upon which I would have to deploy my column, after crossing the stream, and under fire. There was no way, so far as I knew, but to march square up in his front, ford the stream, and attack him in his position; 100 determined men could have held this I)oint. On arriving within 3 miles of his position, I learned that I could ford the creek below, and attack him on his left flank. I ordered Major [R. T.] Williams, Fourteenth Kentucky Cavalry, with 250 men and one how- itzer, to move by this route and open the fight, while I moved up and attacked him in front. I then believed that the enemy, having every advantage of position, and being about my equal in numbers, would make a stubborn resistance. Immediately on hearing of my approach, however, Colonel Cluke ran off with his whole command to Owingsville. This was precisely the way I wanted him to go. I immediately came to the right-about, and ordered Major Williams back to Mount Sterling, believing that the enemy intended to move to Owingsville and North Middletown, and attempt to get out of the State in that direction. Upon consultation with some of my officers, I determined to move to Owingsville, get in the enemys rear,and drive him in the direction of Maysville. Upon arriving at Mount Sterling, I received the order of the general commanding to move immediately to Lexington. In this order the gen- eral commanding stated that the enemy in heavy force were moving upon Lexington. The couriers informed me that there had been fight- ing at Clays Ferry, and that the enemy were crossing in large force at Boonesborough. For reasons already explained, I did not believe this order to be genuine, and, being informed that the couriers were suspicious person- ages, and unable to give an intelligible account of themselves, I believed it to be a Morganish trick; but knowing the penalty of disobeying a genuine order, I did, to the regret of my whole command, obey, and moved toward Paris. I did this because Paris was the nearest tele- graphic point, and but 5 miles out of the way. At Paris I could settl Page 54 54 KY., MID. AND E. TENN., N. ALA., AND SW. VA. [CUAP. XXXV. the genuineness of the order. If it were not genulue, I could move directly back 111)011 Cluke, as I thought he could not make his escape. If the order should prove genuine, and the report brought by the cour- iers should prove true, I knew my little force would be cut to pieces at Winchester by the rebels, reported to be crossing at Boonesborough. On arriving at Paris on the morning of the 27th, I found the reported advance of the rebels was a false alarm. I halted to rest my men and horses, and to await orders from the general commanding. I received an order to pursue Cluke aud use him up. I proceeded to carry out this order. I took every precaution to cut off communication between Paris and Mount Sterling, and sent Lieut. Trimble Williams, a brave and gallant soldier, to Mount Sterling He went into the town among the rebels, and gained all the information I desired, and reported to me on the following morning. On the morning of the 28th, I sent forward Captain [J. M.] Taylor, of the Tenth Kentucky Cavalry, on the Paris and Mount Sterling road, and Major [William] Heaney, of the Seventh Ohio Cavalry, on the Winchester and Mount Sterling road, with instructions to drive in the enemys pickets on these roads and annoy them as much as possible. I then made every exertion to place my command in the best possible condition. I procured reliable guides. I found that I could move my whole command between the Mount Sterling and Paris and Mount Ster- ling and Winchester pikes, and that I could be among the rebels before they could have any idea of my whereabouts. Captain Taylor performed his duty, a thing which he never fails to do. Major IReaney has never reported to me, but I learn he went to Winchester, placed his pickets upon the road, and took, as it were, possession of the town; that four of his men, on guard, while eating supper at the toll-gate on the Mount Sterling pike, were captured by a few straggling rebels. Upon learning this, I understand Major Reaney fell back to a church somewhere on the Lexington pike, and informed the general commanding by courier that the rebels were coming to Wiu. chester in force. The commanding general then commanded me to take Winchester at daylight. I immediately moved to obey this order. I arrived at Winchester on the morning of March 1, and found Colonel [W. P.] Sanders, Sixth [Fifth] Kentucky Cavalry, with a detachment of mounted infantry, but no rebels. To move forward theh to Mount Sterling was to move with a body of men who had had no sleep for two nights, and that I would arrive at Mount Sterling late in the afternoon. I therefore remained in Winchester until the morning of March 2. I t~ien moved forward to Mount Sterling to attack the enemy. In the mean time I learned they had clianged their camp. On arriving at Mount Sterling, I ordered the cavalry forward to at- tack the enemy, while I supported them with the infantry and artillery. There were about 200 rebels in Mount Sterling, with their pickets 3 miles this side. Major INorton, with 100 men of the Seventh Ohio Cavalry, drove them through the town, and, supported by Major [J. M.] Brown, of the Tenth Kentucky Cavalry, pursued them 0 miles beyond the town, to Howards Mills. I moved up rapidly with the howitzers and mounted infantry, and found the enemy posted, with Slate Creek on their front, on a high hill. I determined to cross and attack them, and brought up my howit- zers to protect my men while fording the creek. I discovered on my nearer approach that they had no intemition of fighting, and that to cross the creek would only be to weary my horses, some of which were utterly used up. I therefore ordered Captain Nlarsh to open upon the Page 55 ChAr. XXXV.] OPERATIONS IN CENTRAL KENTUCKY. 55 with shell. Upon his gettin~ the range and dropi ing a shell in their ranks, they immediately retired. I returned to Mount Sterling, previous to which I sent Major Will- iams, with a small body of mounted infantry, to reconnoiter. The corn- manding general had ordered me not to pursue them in the direction of Western Virginia, and I was satisfied they had taken this route, and it was useless to pursue. I further discovered, on retracing my steps to Mount Sterling, that it was with great difficulty I could bring the how- itzer battery back to Mount Sterling, the horses being utterly used up. In this skirmish the rebels acknowledge the loss of 10 killed, several wounded, while we took 16 prisoners. I know that by the bursting of one shell the rebels lost 2 men and 3 horses killed, and 3 horses wounded. The inhabitants report that they threw their dead into the stream and carried off their wounded. I went into camp at Mount Sterling to await orders. When I marched from Richmond, I ordered Lieutenant-Colonel Miner to move toward supplies and to take care of his men. Learning after- ward that he was at Richmond, I ordered him to Irvine, to guard the river, and to guard, if necessary, the crossing of the rebels. This order, he informs me, he never received. Lieutenant-Colonel Miner has not reported to me, and the movements of his command since he moved from Richmond I know nothing of. In regard to the conduct of my command: As to my subordinate offi- cers, I have only to thank them, especially Lieutenant-Colonel Wilson, Majors Brown and Norton, and Captain Marsh, for their hearty co- operation, their active and energetic support, and their obedience and gallantry on all occasions. As for my men, they have endured hard- ships and privations without a murmur, have ridden day after day and night after night without sleep or rest, and have pursued eagerly and willingly when so exhausted that they fell from their horses. I only regret that the rebels would not give them a chance to show their courage. Feeling and believing that my whole command has done its duty, and that its conduct will meet with your approval, I have the honor to be, very respectfully, your obedient servant, BEN. P. RUNKLE, Colonel, Commanding Second Brigade. Capt. W. L. M. BURGER, Assistant Adjutant- General. [Indorsement.] HEADQUARTERS DISTRICT OF CENTRAL KENTUCKY, Lexington, Ky., March 17, 1863. Respectfully forwarded to department headquarters. Certaiu inac- curacies in Colonel Runkles report demand notice. His order to destroy the ferries was not countermanded by me, but was a reiteration of mine from Louisville of February 22. I deemed it essential that they should be destroyed~ A portion of Clukes command swam the Kentucky River, and they had enough start of Colonel Runkle to have all crossed in that way. The colonels prospect of catching Cluke was very slight after he was once allowed to get by him. It was simply a chase after an enemy, already one days march ahead, who kept his command well mounted all the time by pressing horses, who always had choice of several roads, and carried with him about 150 extra animals. After Cluke retreated into the hills beyond Mount Sterling, and knowing th Page 56 5(3 KY., MID. AND P. TYNN., N. ALA., AND SW. VA. [CHAP. XXXV. excellent condition of his nimals and the jaded condition of our own, from Colonel Runkles own report, I stopped the useless pursuit. I subsequently directed the colonel to move toward Lexington, in con- sequence of reports from Big Hill and the precipitate flight of Lieuten- ant-Colonel Miner from Richmond with 500 mounted men, a flight which at the time was firmly believed to have been from some good cause. This order was obeyed by a forced and unnecessary night march of 27 miles to Paris; an easy march of the same distance, if commenced in strict accordance with the order, and continned in orders to have beeii given subsequently, would have placed Colonel Itunkles command the day after he started from Mount Sterling in a position where it was l)resumed it would be wanted, and near supplies. The colonel received my order at Paris to pursue Cluke on the morn- ing of February 28. He left on the morning of March 1, about 1 oclock. How his men could have been without sleep and his horses without rest during the two days halt at Paris, I cannot understand. Q. A. GJLLMOIIIE, Brigadier. General, Commanding. No. 2. Report of Maj. John Al. Brown, Tenth Kentucky Cavalry. HEADQUARTERS TENTH KENTUCKY CAVALRY, Near Mount Sterling, Ky., March 8, 1803. GENERAL: I have the honor to report that the Tenth Regiment Ken- tucky Volunteer Cavalry, under my command, on the night of 23d Feb. ruary, 1863, skirmished with the enemys outposts, successfully evading an attempt to ambush our force. Several of the enemy were killed an(l wounded, and their outposts fell back upon their main body at Mount Sterling, 7 miles distant. The only casualty in my command was Sergt. John Beckett, of Com- pany A, shot through the lungs, and it is feared mortally wounded. The other wounds received by members of the regiment were not suffi- ciently serions to call for the surgeons services. The rebels were a portion of Morgans forces, and were commanded by Colonel Cluke. They numbered 800 men. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, JOHN MASON BROWN, Major, Commanding Tenth Kentucky Cavalry. [Brig. Gen.] LORENZO THOMAs, Adjutant- General, Washington, D. C. No. 3. Report of Maj. A ugustus Norton, Seventh Ohio Cavalry. HDQRS. 2D BATTALION, 7TH Onio VOLUNTEER CAVALRY, Lexington, Ky., March 16, 1863. GENERAL: In obedience to your request, I submit the following state- ment of the manner in which Colonel Runkles command was marche Page 57 ChAr. XXXVJ OPERATIONS IN CENTRAL KENTUCKY. 57 4 from Winchester to Mount Sterling, on the 2d day of Maich, 1863; also the condition of the commanders: About 7 a. m. the command was on the road, a detachment of the mounted infantry and one piece of Captain Marshs battery as an ad- vance guard; the Seventh Ohio Volunteer Cavalry in advance of the column; Tenth Kentucky next, followed by the mounted infantry and artillery. After we had proceeded about 3 miles, Colonel Runkle ordered tue to take my command (giving me a guide) and move off to the right through the fields and come into the road again about 6 miles ahead, stating that the rebel pickets were reported stationed at a bridge some 5 miles [distant], and he wanted to capture them. I immediately pro- ceeded with my command in the direction ordered, moving as rapidly as circumstances would permit, making the route of 8 or more miles in about one and one-fourth hours, striking the road at the point desig- nated, and on my arrival 1 found the advance guard and Tenth Kentucky Cavalry in advance of the point named. The movement of the column to this point before it was possible for me to reach it, defeated the whole object of the circuitous march I was ordered to make, at which I was very much surl)rised. I took my place behind the Tenth Kentucky, as ordered, and moved on with the column about 1 mile, when Lieutenant [II. E.] Ware, one of Colonel litnnkles aides, rode up beside me, and I suggested the propriety of sending a detach- inent to within 1 mile of Mount Sterling, and there turn to the right and intercept the Tick Town road, so as to cut off their retreat in that direc- tion, with which suggestion the lieutenant coincided, and went back to consult with the colonel in regard to the movements. In a few moments he came back with an order for me to take my command and move for- ward like hell to the point where he fired shells at the pickets on our first visit to Mount Sterling, which is about 1 mile from town. I moved forward with my command lively, but before reaching the point desig- nated I ran into their pickets, and took after them at full speed (know- ing that they would be able to get around on the pike before 1 could cut across the fields and intercept them oti the Tick Town road, should they choose to retreat in that direction). We pursued them very closely, and captured 1 prisoner before reaching town. On their arrival at the center of the town, they wheeled into line and fired one volley at us, wounding 1 man; but our chase being too hot for them, they left in a hurry, holding up their hands and arms, showing wounds they received to the citizens as they left. Just before entering town I sent back a courier to Colonel Runkle for reenforcements. We pursued them hotly, capturing 12 prisoners, 2 of whom were wounded, and killed several horses for them. After we had pursued them some 3 miles from town, and a majority of our horses had given out, and no re-enforcements had come up, I dispatched another messenger for re-enforcements, and he found Colonel Runkle with part of his troops in line of battle about 1~ miles from town. We kept up the pursuit until we ran them into their camp across Slate Creek, which was about 6 miles from Mount Sterling, after which I took a commanding position in full view of their cam~p, and was watching their movements until the column should come up. I had been in that position but a few moments when I received an order from Colonel Itunkle to take my command and move across to the Owings- ville pike and join the column. 1 debated for a moment the propriety of obeying such an order under the circumstances, but concluded to obey it, and proceeded in that direction, leaving the enemy to dispose of their forces as they pleased Page 58 58 KY., MID. AND E. TENN., N. ALN., AND SW. VA. [CHAP. XXXV. On my ~iirivaI at the Owingsville pike, I found that the column had not moved in that direction, but learned that they had followed up the road over which I had chased tlie enemy, to ~ Mills. 1 imme- diately took my command back to the point 1 had left, making a use- less march of 7 miles for our already wearied horses. On my arrival I found the command drawn up in line of battle, firing shell at the retreat- ing enemy, with little or no effect. The command, men and officers, l)lead with him to let them cross Slate Creek and fight them, but their entreaties were all in vain. After he had amused himself firing shell at them for a while, he moved the command back about a quarter of a mile, fed, and had the men make coffee, making a stay of about two hours, when we marched back to Mount Sterling and went into camp. Thus a most excellent opportunity, and perhaps the last, of forcing the enemy into a fight was thrown away. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, A. NORTON, Major, (iomdg. Second Battalion Seventh Ohio Vol. Gavairy. Brigadier-General GJLLMORE. No. 4. Report of Capt. Emanuel Kauffman, One hundredth Ohio Infantry. [No DATE.] GENERAL: I have the honor to report to you the following: On the 21st day of February, 18G3, at 8 p. in., Lieutenant Miller, of Wolfords cavalry, arrived in camp with the information that a large force of rebels were in or near Mount Vernon, 28 miles from Richmond. A dispatch was immediately forwarded to your headquarters, which was re- ceived at headquarters at 1 a. in., February 22. The courier not having returned, another dispatch was forwarded at 6 a in., February 22, to see whether any re-enforcements were coming. Not getting any infor- mation, I held the works until 10 a. in., when the scouts came in and reported the enemy in large force within 3 miles of camp. I at once ordered the men from the work of blockading the gap, and ordered the stores, camp-equipage, & c., that the men could not carry away to be burned. I had only one team in camp, which was used to convey sick and convalescents; the other company team was used to carry rations for a scouting party to Big Hill (30 men under Lieutenant [J. S. S.] Champion), which was so ordered from your headquarters. I retreated to the Kentucky River and crossed at Clays Ferry. About 2.30 p. m. I again sent a dispatch to know whether I should make a stand, and whether re-enforcements were coming. No orders were received. At Op. m. I entertained some fears that the enemy would cross at Coombs Ferry and cut off the retreat. I again ordered the men to fall back to Lexington. At about 8 p. m. I received a dispatch from headquarters to make a stand at the river, and, if necessary, destroy the ferry. I ordered the cavalry to return to the river for that purpose; also ordered my men to return. The cavalry returned, and reported 300 rebels on this side. My men being fatigued from the march, I again ordered them to fall back to Lexington, where I arrived at 1.30 a. in., February 23, 1863 Page 59 59 CHAr. XXXV.] RECONNAISSANCE FROM FRANKLIN, TENN. There were. 10 men taken prisoners and paroled. One six-mule team was captured by the enemy. We burned 16 tents, a number of blankets, knapsacks, and clothing, about 18,000 rounds of cartridges, 6 Enfield rifles, about 1,000 pounds of baaon, 5 barrels of coffee, 5 barrel sof sugar, 4 barrels of rice, 6 barrels of beans, 3,000 pounds of hard bread, some soap and candles. One hospital tent belonging to the Forty-fourth Ohio Vol- unteer Infantry, and 1 guard tent belonging to the One hundredth Regi- ment Ohio Volunteer infantry, were saved. About 80 head of cattle and some unserviceable horses and mules were left back, and aye now in care of N. Jones, near Richmond. About 2,000 pounds of corn was left on the ground. E. KAUFFMAN, Captain, Commanding Post, Richmond, Ky. General GILLMORE. FEBRUARY 19, 1863.Skirmish near Rover, Tenn. Report of Brig. Gen. B. C. Waithall, C. S. Army. HEADQUARTERS WALTIIALLS BUlGABE, On Triune Pike, February 19, 186311 p. m. MAJOR: I learn from Lieutenant-Colonel [John S.] Prather, command- ing cavalry in my front, that he had a skirmish with the enemy this evening near Rover, and that the enemy encamped at night in sight of his position. He reports that the enemy has two or three regiments of infantry and one of cavalry, and also artilleryperhaps as many as four pieces, with wagons~ number not stated. lie desires me to move up to his support, and I shall move at 1 oclock in the morningat least to the neighborhood of Unionville or a little beyond, and, if deemed ad- visable under the circumstances, as far as Rover. Should the lieutenant-general commanding deem this course inexpe- dient, the courier who bears this can reach me at an early hour to- morrow. I am, sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant, E. C. WALTIIALL, Brigadier- General. Maj. THOMAS M. JACK, Assistant Adjutant- General. FEBRUARY 21, 1863.Reconnaissance from Franklin, on the Lewisburg, Columbia, and Carter Creek Roads, Tenn. Report of Col. Thomas J. Jordan, Ninth Pennsylvania Cavalry. HEADQUARTERS NINTH PENNSYLVANIA CAVALRY, Franklin, Tenn., February 21, 1863. SIR: At the suggestion of Colonel [Emerson] Opdycke, I made a reconnaissance at daybreak this morning on the roads leading from Franklin to Lewisbnrg, Columbia, and Carter Creek. I divided my force into three parts: The first, under Ma,j. Griffit Page 60 130 KY., MID. AND E. TENN., N. ALA., AND SW. VA. [CHAr. XXXV. Jones, with 65 men, I assigned to the LewiThurg road; the second, under Captain [M.] OReilly, with 62 men, I assigned to the Carter Creek road, and the other, with 73 men, I kept under my own command upon the direct road to Columbia. I instrncted Major Jones and Captain OReilly to proceed upon their respective roads for 6 or 7 miles, and then to scout through the country toward the. Columbia turnpike, and join me at or near the brick church, some 7 miles from Franklin. The distance to be marched by the columns on the Lewisbnrg and Carter Creek roads being some 4 miles longer than that on the Colum- bia road, I marched very slowly, so as to give them time to execute the movement, and, if possible, to get into the rear of the strong cavalry picket that usually occupies that position. Slowly as I marched, ii reached that point (the church) about half an hour before Major Jones, and after waiting about half an hour longer on Captain OReilly, and hearing nothing of him, I determined to move on slowly in the direction of Coluiribia, hoping that the captain would come after and overtake me. I proceeded on the Columbia road about 2 miles, and till within 1~ miles of Butlers Station, when my advance guard surprised and cap- tured Surgeon , of Colonel Wheelers cavalry, just as he was in the act of taking a parting kiss from a most beautiftil girl, who had by her surpassing charms inveigled him from the safety of his camp. I then countermarched and retraced my route to Franklin. During this time I heard nothing of Captain OReilly, but as I marched to the town a messenger caught me with the intelligence that the captain was missing and was supposed to be captured, though the remainder of his command was safe. On the road leaning from the Little Harpeth Creek (about 9 miles from Franklin) to the church on the Columbia road, and when about 2 miles from the church, Captain OReillys command captured 2 Confederate soldiers, one of whom was sick in bed in a house by the roadside. Cap- tain OReilly ordered the column to proceed while he entered the house for the purpose of paroling the sick prisoner. This was the last that was seen of him, as, very soon after, a column of the enemy, supposed by Lientenant [Gj Smith, who examined it carefully with his glass, to be about 500 men, came in sight, moving down on the road leading directly from Butlers Station to the house where the captain had dis- mounted, and immediately afterward his horse, with the bridle-reins hanging about his feet, joined the column. Lieutenant Smith, who succeeded to the command, did not deem it prudent with so small a force to attack the enemy, and in about an hour afterward brought his column safely into camp. The loss of Captain OReilly will be very much felt in the regiment, as he was a most efficient and gallant officer. I believe he was captured by the connivance of the family who occupy the house, and would most respectfully ask permission to capture all the male members of suffi- cient age and hold them as hostages for the captain. Respectfully submitted. THOS. J. JORDAN, Colonel Ninth Pennsylvania Gavalvy. Lieut. GEORGE K. SPEED, Acting Assistant Adjutant- General Page 61 CHAP. XXXV.j SKIRMISh ON TIlE MANChESTER PIKE, TENN. 61 FEBRUARY 22, 1863.Skirmish on the Manchester Pike, Tenn. RIEP(tVRTS. No. 1.Brig. Gem David S. Stanley, U. S. Army, commanding cavalry, Department of the Cumberland. No. 2.Col. Robert II. G. Minty, Fourth Michigan Cavalry, commanding First Cav- alry Brigade. No. 3.Capt. Robert E. Cain, First Middle Tennessee Cavalry (Union). No. 4.Licut. David R. Snelling, First Middle Tennessee Cavalry (Union). No. 1. Report of Brig. Gem David AS~. Stanley, U. S. Army, commanding cav alry, Department of the Cumberland. IIDQRS. CAVALRY, DEPARTMENT OF THE CUMBERLAND, Near ]lliurfreesborough, February 22, 1863. COLONEL: I have the honor to inform you tbat the picket on the Man- chester pike was attacked this morning by about 400 rebel cavalry. The reliefs for the roads picketed by Colonel Mintys brigade, consist- ing of about 90 men, arrived at the reserve of the picket on this pike at the moment they were attacked, and repulsed them. They (the enemy) captured 2 of our vedettes, belonging to the First Middle Tennessee. Our cavalry pursued them 2 miles beyond our outpost, and citizens re- ported 1 lieutenant and 4 men wounded. I am, very respectfully, your obedient servant, D. S. STANLEY, C. GODDARD, Brigadier-General and Chief of Cavalry. Assistant Adjutant- General. No. 2. Report of Col Robert if. G. Minty, Fourth ]Jlichigan Cavalry, com manding First Cavalry Brigade. CAMP NEAR MIJRFREESBOROUGH, TENN., February 27, 1863. SIR: Having investigated the circumstances attending the attack on the pickets on the Manchester road, on the morning of the 22d instant, I have to report as follows: A picket of 30 men of the First [Middle] Tennessee Cavalry, under command of First Lieutenant [D. It.] Snelling, of same regiment, had just. been relieved by 30 men of the Fourth Michigan, under Second Lieutenant [J. P.] Rexford, of that regiment. Both pickets were iii line, and in a position where they could see the road for fully a quarter of a mile to their front. At this moment a few shots were fired, and the vedettes galloped in, closely followed by the enemy. Lieutenant Snelling directed Lieutenant Itexford to fall a short distance to the rear an4 dismount his men, while he would form the First [Middle] Tennessee across the road a little farther to the front. As the Fourth Michigan were moving across the road, the First [Middle] Tennessee, with Liente Page 62 62 KY., MID. AND B. TENN., N. ALA., AND SW. VA. [CHAP. XXXV. ant Snelling, broke and dashed through them, when all galloped to the rear in confusion. Corporal Ketchum, of Company A, Fourth Michigan Cavalry, called to the men to follow him. He was followed by 4 men of his own regiment and 2 of the I~rst [Middle] Tennessee. These men checked and finally drove the enemy off the ground, following them up to beyond the position occupied by the advanced vedettes. Before the attack was made, Lieutenant Snelling rode to the front once, fired his pistol, and galloped back, calling to the men in the rear to advance. Captain Cain does not appear to have been on the ground until after the retreat of the rebels. He was going out to relieve the picket on the Wartrace road, when, hearing the firing to his front, he went out to inquire the cause of it. I have ordered that Corporal Ketchum be pro. moted to the first vacancy in his company, and I have called for the names and companies of the 6 men who supported him so nobly. Inclosed I hand you reports of Captain Cain and Lieutenants Snelling and Rexford.~ I am, respectfully, your obedient servant, liOBT. II. C-. MINTY, Colonel, Commanding First Cavalry Brigade. Captain SINCLAIR, Assistant Adjutant- General, Gavalry. No. 3. Report of Capt. Robert B. Cain, First Middle Tennessee Cavalry (Union). FEBRUARY 25, 1863. COLONEL: Being oi-dered, on the morning of the 22d of February, to relieve the pickets on the Wartrace road, I started for that post, intend- ing to go to the reserve on the Manchester pike, and then through the woods, having been informed that it was the best route. When I had arrived near the reserve, I saw the guard advancing toward me in con- siderable disorder, being driven in by the enemy, Lientenant [D. IL] Snelling and another officer (name not known by me) trying to rally the men. I attempted to throw my squad into line, but could not, owing to the former pickets breaking through the line and causing disorder. Lieu- tenant Snelling and the nnknown officer in the mean time had rallied some few men, and turned on the advance of the enemy, driving them back. I came to his support as quickly as possible with a few men. Having driven the advance in, we could plainly see that the enemy was in too great force, when we fell back some little distance, and foimed a line of battle, intending to fight them as best we could. We remained in this position for a short time, when we were informed by our advance skirmishers that the enemy had retreated. We then moved up and occupied the ground where the reserve was usually posted, where we remained until we received re-enforcements from the Fourth Michigan. I then drew my men off, and went to my post. I understand that one of our men was captured. I also heard through negro sources that the enemy had 1 captain and 2 privates wounded, who have since died. I give the latter information for what it is worth. Yours, respectfully, IIOBEliT E. CAIN, Captain, Comdg. Gompany U, First huddle Tennessee Gavalry. Colonel [IL H. G.1 ~IINTY. hexforffs report not found Page 63 CHAP. XXXV.J ATTACK ON TUSCUMBIA, ALA. G3 No. 4. Report of Jiieut. David li. Snelling, First Middle Tennessee Cavalry (UnionX FEBRUARY 17-21, 1863. Road picketed, Manchester. Strength of picket, 30 men. Distance from infantry picket, 2 miles. Where posted: On right and left of Manchester pike, 5 miles from Murfreesborough. On the 19th, the vedettes on the pike were attacked by 12 rebels (all wearing our uniform), but they fled when fired upon. Fourteen refugees came in on the same day. On the 22d, just as the relief arrived, we were attacked by a force of rebel cavalry, supposed to be about 200 strong (many of them wearing the Federal uniform). The pickets were driven in to the reserve. The enemy pursued and cap. tured 1 man. I am sorry to state that out of a force of 75 or 80 men, there being 30 under my command on duty at the post, and 30 under the command of a lieutenant of the Fourth Michigan, and 25 or 30 under the command of Captain Cain, of the First Middle Tennessee, on the ground, only 15 or 20 made any resistance; the remaining 70 or 75 escaped out of danger, and the officers commanding did not act bravely. DAVID R. SNELLING, First Lient. Company D, First Middle Tennessee Cavalry. [Indorsement.] IIEADQUARTER~ CAVALRY, February 25, 1863. Respectfully referred to Colonel Minty, commanding First Cavalry Brigade, for investigation and report, so far as relates to the conduct of the lieutenant in charge of picket from Fourth Michigan Cavalry, and Captain Cain, First Middle Tennessee Cavalry. By command of Brigadier-General Stanley: WILLIAM II. SINCLAIR, Assistant Adjutant- General. FEBRUARY .22, 1863.Attack on Tuscumbia, Ala. REPORTS. No. 1.Maj. Gen. Charles S. Hamilton, U. S. Army. No. 2.Brig. Gen. Grenvillo M. Dodge, U. S. Army, commanding District of Corinth. No. 1. Report of Maj. Gen. Charles S. ilamilton, U. S. Army. MEMPHIS, TENN., hbruary 25, 1863. GENERAL: The cavalry of General Dodge~ under command of Colo- nel [F. M.J Cornyn, attacked Tuscnmbia and rear of Van Dorns column on Sunday, the 22d instant, at 4 a. in.; caj)tured one piece o Page 64 64 KY., MID. AND E. TENN., N. ALA., AND SW. VA. [CHAP. XXXV. artillery, 100 prisoners, 200 horses, a large amount of stores, including a train of cars and 10() bales of C. S. Army cotton, considerable money, and a large number of mules. Colonel Coriiyn and his command have swum creeks and rivers; have operated during all these terrible storms, and are now following the enemy into the mountains; officers and men behaved splendidly, and all are entitled to warmest l)raise for perseverance and daring gallantry. Scouts have arrived from the interior of Mississippi during the last twenty-four hours, and all report the enemy rapidly evacuating Vicks- burg. He is moving everything to the eastward, and the talk is that all are going to re-enforce the army opposed to liosecrans, now com- manded by Joseph [E.] Johnston, Bragg having been removed. Prices forces are on the east side of the Black River. * * * * * * * I am, very respectfully, your obedient servant, C. S. HAMILTON, Major- General. Major-General HURLBUT, & c. No.2. Reports of Brig. Gen. Grenville M. Dodge, U. S. Army, commanding District of Gorinth. CORINTH, February 23, 1803. The gunboats got to Florence and above yesterday. Van Dorn had succeeded in crossing before they reached there. My cavalry have got to the river above Florence, and are on their way to Decatur. The gun- boats have several families of refugees and some 60 prisoners. If we had been able to have got the gunboats up when I first reported, we should have done much more damage. Van Dorn, Wheeler, Forrest, and Roddey are at Columbia, Teun., and Van Dorns force that he crossed amounts to about 6,000 men and the batteries. Van Dorn crossed a portion of his force above Muscle Shoals. G. M. DODGE, Brigadier- General. Major-General ROSECRANS. CORINTH, February 27, 1863. There were about 1,000 troops in the valley. We attacked them on the 22d instant; took Tuscumbia, 200 prisoners, all their stores, horses, one piece of artillery, and one of Van Dorns trains. They scattered, and my force is still after them. Large quantities of forage have been taken to the mountains. A large quantity remains in the valley. A good deal of it has been contracted for by the C. S. Army, but had not been taken out, and cannot be now. It is reported to-day that the engine crossing at Decatur has been taken back. G. M. DODGE. J~ri~qadier- General. Major-General ROSECRANS Page 65 SIUt~MISH AT 131~ADYVILLB, TENN. C~ir. XXX.V.] 65 MAILCIi 1, 183~~iirrnish at B ~adyville, Ter~n. PEP ORTS. No. 1.Maj. Gen. William S. Eosecrans, U. S. Army. No. 2.Brig. Gen. IDwid S. Stanley, U. S. Army, Chief of Cavalry, Department of the Cumberland. No. 3.Col. James W. Paramore, Third Ohio Cavalry, commanding Second Cavalry Brigade. No. 4.Capt. William Xi. Flanagan, Third Ohio Cavalry. No. 5.Col. Eli Long, Fourth Ohio Cavalry. No. 6.Col. John F. Miller, Twenty-ninth In inna Infantry, commanding Third Brigade, Second Division, Fourteenth Army Corps. No. 1. Report of faj. Gem. William S. Rosecrans, U. S. Army. JURFREESBOROUGH, TENN., March 2, 18632 p. m. General Stanley reports from hL expedition to Bradyville: We fared badly for forage. The rebels of Morgans and Whartons commands made a stand in Bradyville. Colonels Paramore and Long went in with sabers drawn, and whipped them in about three minutes. Stokes cav- alry advanced bravely with carbine. We took 70 prisoners, including 8 officers, their camp equipage, tents, saddles, and some 70 horses, and Basil [W.] Dukes regimental papers. Major [James] Murphy did good service. We lost 1 man killed and 1 captain and 7 men wounded. We found 4 of their de~ d. W. S. 1~OSECRANS, Major- General. Maj. Gen. II. W. HALLEcK, General-in- Chief. No. 2. Report of Brig. Gem. David S. Stanle.y, U. S. Army, Chief of Cavalry, Department of the Gumberland. HDQPS. C~YALRY, DEPARTMENT OF THE CUMBERLAND, Near lllurfreesborough, March 5, 1863. GENERAL: On Sunday, the 1st of March, 1 conducted a foraging train of 400 wagons on the Bradyville pike as far as the village of Brady- ville. The escort consisted of a part of the three brigades of cavalry at this place and one brigade (Millers) of infantry. The advance was composed of the First Middle Tennessee Cavalry and the Third and Fourth Ohio Cavalry. II directed the advance myself placing the in- fantry in the center, the Fourth U. S. Cavalry on the exposed flank of the train, and Colonel Mintys command as rear guard. Two miles from the village we drove the enemys pickets in, and, pressing upon them, soon found them disposed to make a stout resistance. The Tennessee regiment soon became engaged, and were on the point of falling back, when the two Ohio regiments coming up, immediately charged the enemy iu front and flank, routing him, and sending his men and horses flying in all directions over the rugged hills. 5 R RYOL XXIII, PT Page 66 6(3 RY., MID. AND E. TENN., N. ALA., AND SW. VA. (CHAP. XXXV. The result of the affair wa~ the killing of 4 of ihe enemyas nearly as I could ascertain, not less than 241) were woundedand the taking of 83 prisoners. We captured two wagon-loads of s~ddles of a rough pattern (all new), one wagon-load of pieket rope, some W con, corn, and meal, and in all 70 horses and mules. The anim~ Is were poor. The inclosed reports of Colonels Paramore and Long will give you the particulars; also the lists of killed and wounded. See also the report of Captain Flanagan. M- jor Murphy, First Middle Tennessee, is ab- sent; his report has not been received. He behaved very gMlantly, and had a bullet cut the hair of his head. Captain [R. P.] IRifonberrick, Fourth Ohio Volunteer Cavalry, is highly commended for his bravery. I am sorry to say this valuable officer received a p inful and, it is feared, dangerous wound. All these officers, anJ, indeed, others not mentioned, who engaged in the fight, re commended to the command- ing general. These little affajis, though not important in results, often show the character of officers and troops niore than great battles. The promptness with which Colonels Paramore and Long drew pis- tols and sabers and rushed upon an enemy sheltered behind houses, trees, and rocks, an enemy outnumbering the troops on our side en- gaged, or which the enemy could see, illustrates more strongly than any remarks I can add to their soldierly qualities. The report of Major Murphy and the list (4) of wounded in the First Middle Tennessee Regiment will be sent when received. Your obedient servant, D. S. STANLEY, Brigadier- General and Chief of Cavalry. Brig. Gen. JAMES A. GARFIELD, Chief of Statf. P. S.The enemys force was part of the brigades of Morgan and Wharton. The regimental papers, as well as their possessor, the adju- tant of Dukes rebel regiment, were captured. No. 3. Report of Col. James TV. Pararnore, Third Ohio Cavalry, commanding Second Cavalry Brigade. CAMP STANLEY, NEAR MURFREESBOROUGH, March 3, 1863. SIR: I have the honor to submit the following report of the en~,a6e- ment atBradyville, Tenn., on the 1st instant, between the cavalry under my command, consisting of a portion of the First [Middle] Tennessee, and a detachment of the Second Brigade, consisting of about 100 men from the Third Ohio Volunteer Cavalry, under command of Capt. W. M. Flanagan, and 150 men of the Fourth Ohio, nuder command of Col. Eli Long, and the rebel force at that place, consisting of Colonel Dukes Second Kentucky Cavalry, commanded by Lieutenant-Colonel [James W.] Bowles, and the Fourteenth Alabama [Battalion], belonging to Whartons brigade, and commanded by Major [Jmes C.] Malone, jr.: About 2 miles this side of Bradyville, the First [Middle] Tennessee, under command of Major Murphy, being in advance, encountered the rebel pickets and drove them in. ~ hen near the village, they found the enemy strongly posted behind the houses in the village and a high piece of ground. After a short skirmish, they (the First Tennessee) were drive Page 67 (JUAP. XXXVI] SKJkMJSH AT BEADIVILLE, TENN. back in some confusion. I then brought up the Third and Fourth Ohio, and formed them in line, the Fourth occupying the right and the Third the left. J aLo sent a qu dron of the Fourth Ohio, under command of Major [P.] lathews, around to the extreme left of the rebel line, and a I)ortion of the Third around to their right. I then stationed the First [Middle] Tennessee as a reserve, nd lvanced the remainderof the Third and Fourth Ohio to engage the enemy in front, when we found them strongly posted in piece of woods, about one-fo- r~h of a mile beyond the village, where they were dismounted and sb ettered behind rocks and trees, and gave n s stubborn resist~ ice for about fifteen or tx ~enty minutes, when the detachments I had sent aroun(i to their right and left flanks arrived in l)ositlnn and opened an enfilading fire on both flanks. The enemy gave way in confusion, when a charge w~ s ordered ith sabers and pistols. We pursued them for about 3 miles, during which we took about 100 prisoners, with their horses, arms, and equipments; wounded from 20 to 30, and found 5 dead bodies on the field; also a large quan. tity of commissary and quartermaster~s stores fell into our hands. rfheir rout was complete, and they fled in great consternation, throwing away their guns, overcoats, blankets, -nd everything that would impede their progress. Among the I risoners were 8 commissioned oLficcrL, includinb the ad- jutant of the Second Kentucky Cavalry, with all his books, papers, reports, & c., of the regiment. The enemys fQrce has been variously estimated ~mt from 600 tol,000, while our force, actually engaged, did not exceed 250, and, considering the dkp rity of numbers and the advan- tage of the rebel forces in position, I think it may be conidered one of the most darng and brilliant feat of the war. When all, both officers and men, behaved with s~ ck determined bravery, it would be almost an act of inj ustice to mention ny names in particular. I will, therefore, send you the n mes of all the commissioned officers of the Third and Fourth Ohio Volunteer Cav lry. I do not know the officers of the First [Middle] Tennessee, except Major Murphy. Capts. C. W. Skinner and II. H. Hamilton, of my staff, were very vigi- lant and efficient. Officers of the Fourth Ohio ~ ere Col. Eli Lon ~, commanding regiment; Maj. P. Mathews; (A pts. G. A. Bos~, commanding Company F; li. E. IRogers, commanding Corn pany G; Ii. P. IRifenberrick, commanding Company I; C. A. G. Adae, commanding Company K; and Lieutenants fE. S.] Wood, commanding Company L, and [A. Iii.] Me~rue, command- ing Company A. Officers of the Third Ohio: Capts. N ~illiam A. Fianag~n, commanding regiment; II. C. Miner, commanding First Battalion; J. B. Luckey, commanding Squadrons I and K, Third Batt lion ; Licuts. E. A. ilaines, commanding Company II; Norman Brewster, commanding Company IL; [J. WJ Likens, commanding Company A; F. Brainard, command- ing Company I; and J. H. Hall, commnaudin~ Company K. Casualties as follows : We bivouacked for the night about 1 mile, beyond the village. Noth- ing occurred during the night wofthy of record. All of which is respectfully submitted. J. W. PAIRAMORE, Cob %el, Co urn auding Second Cavalry Brigade. Capt. W. II. SINCLAIR, Assistant Adjutant- General. * Nominal list, omitted, shows 1 killed an ~3 wound.d Page 68 68 KY., MID. AND E. TLNN., N. ALA., AND SW. VA. [C- A?. XX~. No.4. Report of Capt. William ilL Flanagan, Third Ohio Cavalry. HEADQIJARTEPS THIRD OHIo CAVALRY, March 3, 1863. SIR: I have the honor to report the part sustained by the Third Ohio Cavalry in the recent skirmish of March 1, at Bradyville. Pursuant to orders from brigade headquarters, the Third Cavalry marched at daylight ou the 1st instant. On arriving at the Bradyville pike, which lies but a short distance from our camp, I was ordered by the colonel commanding to place my command in the rear of the Second Brigade. I marched in this order until near the village of Bradyville, and in sight of the enemy, who were in large force and strongly posted in the woods, on advantageous ground, on the south side of town. On forming a line of battle, the colonel commanding the brigade, with promptness and energy, ordered me with my command to take the left of the line. I objected somewhat as to the possibility of forming at that juncture at the left, as it would throw my command upon an impracti- cable, steep, stony side-hill. The colonel told me it must be accom- plished. The enemy commenced about this time to send showers of leaden hail upon us, doing us, however, but little injury. As the officers and men of the Third seemed anxious for the affray, I ordered them to ascend the hill, which they did as promptly and quickly as the nature of the ground would admit. After getting my command in line, I noticed at this time that I could gain a strong position on the opposite side of a deep ravine that lay between my command and the edge of town; but to gain this position I would have to pass through an open field about 150 yards wide, and which would have exposed my command more to the enemys fire. The colonel about this time ordered me forward. I commanded the forward, and with a yell, as if the in- fernal regions had broken loose, we gained the desired position. We then opened a brisk and active fire upon the enemy, who returned it with a stubborn and determined spirit, holding us in check some ten minutes; but nuder our regular fire they were compelled to fall back a short distance to the top of a hill and in the woods, where they dis- mounted and secreted themselves behind rocks, trees, logs, and every place that would afford them shelter. In this position they awaited our approach. We then left our position in the village, and marched in line of battle to the woods on the south side of town, to the point the enemy had recently occupied. We had hardly reached their former nosi- tion before we were greeted by a galling fire from the secreted enemy, wounding 3 men and killing 7 horses. This was the trying moment; but the gallant Buckeye boys of the Third never flinched. The enemy held us in check some twenty minutes, but their fire was kept up with spirit and energy. The colonel commanding brigade was present and in the front rank; ordered us to charge, and charge we did, though a little pro- miscuously, driving the enemy in utter confusion through the woods, capturing 15 men before they could mount their horses. The pursuit was continued some time, the enemy flying at breakneck speed over hills, rocks, and hollows, throwing away their arms and every incum- brance that impeded their flight. We were finally ordered to cease pur- suit, which we did reluctantly. Bivouacked 1~ miles south of Bradyville for the night. At 4 oclock on the following morning we took up the line of march for camp, where we arrived about 4 oclock p. m. of the 2d instant Page 69 CHAP. XXXV.] SKIRMISH AT BRADYVILLE, TEJN. 69 I am highly gratified and pleased with the conduct of both officers and men during the skirmish. The following is a list of the casualties among men~ and horses, cap- tures, & c. Captured 18 men and horses fully armed and equipped. The wounded were at once conveyed to camp, and properly cared for by Surg. M. C. Caykendall. All of which is respectfully submitted. _ W. M. FLANAGAN, Ca,tain, Commanding Regiment. Lient. A. M. IIEPLEBOWER, 4lcting Assistant Adjutant- ~enera 1. No. 5. Report of Col. Eli Long, Fourth Ohio Cavalry. HEADQUARTERS FOURTH OHIO YOLU~TEER CAVALRY, Camp near Murfreesborouyh, March 3, 1863. SIR: Ju compliance with instructions received from headquarters Second Cavalry Brigade, Department of the Cumberland, dated March 3, 1863, 1 have the honor to submit the following report of the part taken by the Fourth Ohio Volunteer Cavalry in the fight at Bradyville on the 1st instant: On approaching the village, the enemy was discovered plainly in sight, occupying the village. My regiment was about 400 yards in the rear of the First Middle Tennessee Cavalry. I was ordered to form my regiment~ in line on the right of the road, just without the range of the enemys fire, which I did. I also at this time, pursuant to orders from the bri- gade commander, detailed Major Mathews to take the rear squadron and move to the right of a small hill, and then to move forward. Shortly after I had formed my line, I was ordered to move forward which I did, giving the enemy my fire for a few minutes after gettin~ within range. We then charged and drove the enemy before us, and pursued them on the road some 3~ miles, capturing, as near as I could judge, about 55 or 60 prisoners. Major Mathews, after passing to the right of the hill, was out of sight, but I am satisfied from the report of his pieces, and the effect produced upon the enemy, that his squadron was handled with marked ability, and did credit to its immediate com- mander. I saw no killed of the enemy, but 8 or 10 wounded, several with sabers. My officers and men all fully sustained their former good reputation for gallantry, and I dislike to make any distinction, but I cannot refrain from mentioning, ~ ith all the praise due to a gallant and zealous officer, Capt. Richard P. Rifenberrick, commanding Company I, the speed of whose horse enabled him to keep at the head of his regiment, in which position he was severely wounded. My casualties are as follows: * I am, sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant, ELI LONG, Colonel, Gomma ding Fourth Ohio Volunteer Cavalry. Lieut. A. M. HEFLEBOWER, A. A. A. C., Second Cavalry Brig., Dept. of the 6umberland. * Omitted; included in Colonel Paramoree report, pp. 66,67 Page 70 70 KY., MID. AND E. TENN., N. ALA., AND SW. VA. VnAP. XXXV. No. 6. Report of Gol. John F. Miller, Twenty-ninth Indiana Infantry, command ing Third Brigade, & cond Division, Fourteenth Army Corps. MIJRFREESBOROUGH, March 2, 1863. SIR: The troops ordered to report to me on yesterday for forage expedition assembled at the time and place indicated in the order, and, in addition to these forces, Major [A. B.] Bonnaffon reported, with 200 men from the Seventy-eighth Pennsylvania, for the same duty. The train consisted of 300 wagons, and started for Bradyville at 7 a. m. Brigadier-General Stanley assumed command of the expedition. The cavalry in advance of my command attacked and routed the enemy posted in and aronnd Bradyville, capturing about 70 prisoners. The infantry and artillery force was in supporting distance, but was not en- gaged. About 40 wagons were loaded with forage. This was all that conid be obtained in the region of Bradyville. General Stanley ordered the train back yesterday evening, and I sent np, by his order, the Third Tennessee and Thirty-seventh Indiana as escort for the tr in. The prisoners were sent in nuder guard of the Thirty-seventh Indiana. The remainder of the force bivouacked in and about Bradyville for the night, expecting an attack this morning, but the enemy made no attack. At about 8 a. in. to-day I commenced the march to camp, and arrived in camp at 2 p. m. There is no forage on or near the Bradyville road. The conduct of the troops was good. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, JNO. F. MILLER, Colonel Twenty-ninth indiana, 61omm cnding Third Brigade. Capt. JA~ins A. LOWR1E, Assistant Adjutant General. HARCH 1, 1863.Skirmish near Woodbury, Tenn. Report of Col. William B. Hazen, Forty-first Ohio Infantry, commanding Second Brig de, Second Division, Twenty-first Army Corps. CAMP AT READYYILLE, March 2, 186312 m. CAPTAIN: There are various rumors of considerable reenforcements having been s~mt to Woodbnry. The officers I sent in yesterday are from Dukes Second Kentucky I~egiment, which yesterday morning went from nec r Bradyville to Woodbury. We also have a prisoner from Smith Fourth [IL ighth] Tennes~eeIIegimcnt, which, be says, is at Woodbury, having gone there yesterday. Everybody brought from the countr.y concurs in tbc story that there are two regiments at Bradyville.. These, with the one that has been at Woodbury all the time (which is neither of the ones mentioned), make five in my front. It is quite cer- tain that considerable re-enforcements have been received there since day before yesterday. The two men (Smith and Prater) whom I send to you can tell you what they think they know about ~td They spea Page 71 CIIAP. XX-XV.V EXPEDITION TO WOODBURY, TENN. 71 of the forces that were at the Fort iDonelson. fight being at Woodbury. You had better, perhaps, take them to General Palmer. Yesterday morning, at 4 a. in., I sent out three parties of 100 each, picked men, under picked officers, who went on different roads to the front, taking cover at light, and endeavoring to bushwhack the enemy. The party toward Woodbury had a brisk skirmish, and retired without loss before a vastly superior force of cavalry. One of the enemy was known to be shot. The party toward Bradyville also bad several little skirmishes, catching one; but as the enemy are all mounted and know the country much the best, I think they will come out best at bush- whacking. I h ye a forage train out 110W which has been attacked, and the firing is now going on. The officer in command has sent in for re~enforcemeats, and I have sent him all II dare to, as it will not do to expose my camp. I would beg respectfully to suggest that, while such a force is in my immediate vicinity, foraging necessary to subsist my animals, with any escort it is safe to spare from the camp, is almost too hazardous for expediency. I am, very respectfully, your obedient servant, W. B. HAZEN, Colonel, Commcen ding. Capt. D. W. ~ORTON, Assistant Adjutant- General. P. S.I send this by courier, and will send the men I speak of by the escort and Inessenoer. NARCH 38, 1863.Expe ition from Iiurfreesborough to Woodbury, Tenn. Reports of MaJ. Gem Jose1 h J. Reynolds, U. S. Army. finQus. FIFTH DIVISION, FOURTEENTh ARMY Coups, March 8, 1863. COLONEL: The brigade of Colonel hall has returned to camp with 8 or 10 prisoners and load of forabe. Colonel Wilder this moment reports the arrival of the Seventeenth Indiana (mounted), who were sent this morning from iReadyville to reach Murfreesborou~h via Auburn. They crossed from Readyville to the Auburn pike, a d went as far as Auburn, charged on a party of rebels, killed a major and one or two ~ and wounded several. One private (Seventeenth Indiana) severely wounded in the arm, and one of our guides captured. No other loss to us. We took several re- volvers and one revolving rifle. Very respect~ulIy, J. J. REYNOLDS, Major- General. Lieutenant-Colonel FLYNT, Ass ~ta.~t AdjzU at- ~en ral cu .d Cltif of 8ta~ IIDQRS. FIFTH DIVISION, FOURTEENTH ALMY Coups, ilhufreesborough, March 10, 1863. COLONEL: I h~ve the honor to render the following account of our recent expedition: Left c mp ~t Murfree borou~h, L rek 3, x ith bri ~des of [J. T. Page 72 72 KY., MID. AND E. TENN., N. ALA., AND SW. VA. [CHAP. XXXV. Wilder and [A. S.] Hall, and encamped that night at Beadyville. Im- mediately after encamping, lost 2 men from the Eightieth Illinois Regi- ment, by desertion. They were conducted to the rebel camp near Bradys Rock by a citizen reported to live near Readyville. All our efforts to secure this man were unavailing. Fourth (Wilders) Brigade foraged to the front toward Woodbury. Saw no enemy, except a few pickets. On the night of the 4th, Halls brigade made a movement on the enemy at Bradys Rock, about 7 miles from Readyville (as the command had to go through the hills). The night was very clear and moonlight. Passed one picket station safely, but were discovered at the one nearest the enemy. Part of the force got well round their camp, and part ad- vanced in front. The enemy had evidently been put on their guard by our deserters. Our forces closed in upon the rebels rapidly. They ran in every direction; returned our fire once, but without effect. We killed 1 and wounded several. Colonel Halls brigade returned to camp at Readyville in the after- noon of the.Sth. On the morning of the 6th, moved on Woodbury, Wilders brigade to the right and rear, Halls to the left, myself, with Hazens brigade and the guns, in front. Enemy~s pickets met us in front, 4 miles from Woodbury; drove them at longe range, without results. Halted, keep- ing the principal part of our force concealed, to give time for the flank movements to be executed. These movements were both promptly made, but the rebels got information of them, in spite of all precau- tions, and ran, principally toward MeMinuville. The party that we had thus far held steady in front, on learning that the main rebel force had retreated, did the same, toward Liberty. Our force, except Halls brigade, Seventeenth Indiana (mounted), and two howitzers, returned to Readyville. Halls command remained at Woodbury over night, and joined us on the 7th, which day Wilder spent in foraging. On the 8th, Hall foraged, and the whole command returned to camp at Mnrfreesborough, the Seventeenth Indiana and two companies of Stokes cavalry by way of Auburn, near to which place they had a skirmish with some rebel cavalry, and killed 1 field officer and wounded several men. Results.We killed 1 field officer and 1 private; captured 25 pris- oners, including 1 lieutenant and 2 conscript agents, and obtained about 100 wagon-loads of forage. We lost 2 men by desertion, 3 men captured (Eightieth Illinois), 1 first sergeant captured, and 1 private wounded severely in arm (Seventeenth Indiana). An idea of the country through which our forces passed can be formed from the accompanying map.* It is very broken, and as almost every citizen is a spy for the enemy, by day and by night, it is very difficult to surprise or surround them. Very respectfully, J. J. REYNOLDS, Lieutenant-Colonel FLYNT, ]Vic~jor- Ge end, Commanding. Assistant A djutant- Generat and Chief of & aff. _____________ * Not found Page 73 CHAP. XXXV.] ENGAGEMENT AT THOMPSONS STATION, TENN. 73 1~IARCH 45, 1863.Skirmish (4th) near Franklin, Tenn., and engagement (5th) at Thompsons Station, or Spring Hill, Tenn. REPORTS. No. 1.Maj. Gen. William S. Roseerans, U. S. Army, commanding Department of the Cumberland. No. 2.Return of Casualties in the Union forces. No. 3.Brig. Gen. Charles C. Gilbert, U. S. Army, commanding at Franklin, Tenn. No. 4.Col. Thomas J. Jordan, Ninth Pennsylvania Cavalry. No. 5.Brig. Gen. Absalom I~aird, U. S. Army, commanding Third Division, Army of Kentucky. No. 6,Col. John Coburn, Thirty-third Indiana Infantry, commanding First Brigade. No. 7.Lieut. Hamlet B. Adams, Acting Assistant Adjutant-General. No. 8.Lieut. Edwin I. Bachman Thirty-third Indiana Infantry, Acting Assistant Quartermaster. No. 9.Lient. Col. James M. Henderson, Thirty-third Indiana Infantry. No. 10.Col. John P. Baird, Eighty-fifth Indiana Infantry. No. 11.Col. Henry C. Gilbert, Nineteenth Michigan Infantry. No. 12.Lient. Col. James Pickands, One hnndred and twenty-fourth Ohio Infantry. No. 13.Col. William L. Utley, Twenty-second Wisconsin Infantry. No. 14.Lieut. Col. Edward Bloodgood, Twenty-second Wisconsin Infantry. No. 15.Capt. Charles C. Aleshire, Eighteenth Ohio Battery. No. 16.General Joseph E. Johnston, C. S. Army. No. 17.Maj. Gen. Earl Van Dora, C. S. Army, commanding Confederate forces, with congratulatory orders of Gencral Bragg. No. 18.Return of Casualties in the Confederate forces. No. 19.Brig. Gen. Nathan B. Forrest, C. S. Army, commanding Cavalry Brigade. No. 20.Brig. Gen. William T. Martin, C. S. Army, commanding First Division, Cav- alry Corps. No. 21.Brig. Gen. W. H. Jackson, C. S. Army, commanding& cond Division, Cav- alry Corps. No. 22.Col. J.W. Whitfiel ,Texas Le~,ion, commanding Second Brigade. No. 23.Lient. Col. D. W. Jones, Ninth Texas Cavalry. ~o. 1. Reports of Aft~j. Gem. William S. Roseerans, U. S. Army, commanding Department of the Gumberland. MURFREESBOROUGII, TENN., ]Jiareh 6, 186311.20 a. m. General Gilbert was ordered to send a brigade from Franklin, to reconnoiter toward Spring Hill, in connection with a movement via Eagleville. I have received the followi ~g from General Granger: FRANKLIN, March 5, 1863. The expedition ordered from this point on the 3d was, I fear, drawn into a trap while passing a defile near Thompsons Station, and some 1,800 men have fallen into the hands of the enemy, including killed, won uded, and prisoners. I have reason to believe that the enemy has snifered severely. Van Dorn commanded. General Sheri- dan made a reconnaissance on the 4th to Unionvillo, near Duck River, and the cavalry routed two rebel camps, capturing 70 prisoners, among whom were 5 commissioned officers, 21 wagons, and a considerable quantity of camp equipage and stores. Briga- dier-General Steedman, on the same day, routed a rebel force at Chapel Hill, and captured 100 prisoners. The expedition has not yet returned. W. S. ROSECRAKS, Major- General, Gommanding. Maj, Gen. H. W. HALUiCK, Gener 1-in-Chief Page 74 74 KY., MID. AND E. TENN., N. ALA., AND~ SW. VA. [CnAP. XXXV. MURFREESBOROUGH, TENN., March 6, 186312 midnight. Granger telegraphs as to the unfortunate affair in which Coburns brigade was so cut up. Our loss, 50 killed, 200 wounded.* Rebel loss, 150 killed, 500 to 600 wounded. Rebels say our men fought desperately, and gave up only when surrounded. Information received to-day sat- isfies me they intend to fight us iu Middle Tennessee, and that they will bring to bear upon us about 20,000 cavalry and mounted infantry. They are to-day superior to us in numbers. I am not, as you know, an alarmist, but I do not think it will do to risk as we did before. We know that they claimed 65,000 and the choice of ground on the morning before the battle of Stones River. This read in general orders. W. S. ROSECRANS, ]Iiajor-General. Major.General HALLECK, General-in- Chief. HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE CUMBERLAND, Murfreesborough, Tenn., March 25, 1863. GENERAL: Inclosed I have the honor to transmit General Gilberts report of the affi~ir at Thompsons Station, on the Franklin and Co. lumbia turnpike. From all the papers, it appears that the column of Colonel Coburn, which consisted of 1,845 men, was pushed on the reconnaissance in face of Van Dorns column of probably 7,500 men; that Colonel Coburn pushed them back the first day, and so alarmed them as to be able to encamp in their presence; that the next morning he pushed them before him until they reached Thompsons Station, where there was a natural pass for the road between hills; that here he pushed forward with a good deal of rashness, and,while fighting two Texas brigades in front, was surrounded by Forrest getting in his rear. Our troops appear to have fought well and punished the rebels, but had not the pluck and vigor to charge the rebel cavalry and regain the main road. The loss, as given by General Baird, is as follows: Field and staff officers 13 Commissioned officers 70 Privates 1,323 Total* 1,406 The rebel loss was about 50 killed and 150 wounded. The causes of this loss, which was wholly unnecessary, appear to have been want of proper caution on the part of Colonel Coburn to feel his way and keep General Gilbert advised, and too much indecision on the part of General Gilbert in either giving orders to Colonel Coburn to retire or going out at once to r~-enforce him. Very respectfully, your 61 cdicnt servant, W. S. ROSECRANS, Major. General, Gommanding. Brig. Gen. LORENZO THOMAS, Adjutant. General. * But see revised statement, p. 7 Page 75 CHAr. XXXV.] ENGAGEMENT AT THOMPSONS STATION, TENN. Ko. 2. Return of Casualties in the Union forces. Killed. Wounded. Captured or missing. a a Command. S S S ~ . . ~ a ~ a ~ a F~ .~ ~ -~ ~ a ~ a ~o a ~ 0 0 ~5 15 15 ii o ~ 0 ~1 0 ~ - i -. 33d Indiana Infantry I 13 3 82 20 387 505 85th Indiana Infantry *1 7 2 23 20 231 284 4th Kentucky Cavalry (detachment) 1 11 12 2d Michigan Cavalry (detachment) 2 11 13 19th Michigan Infantry 20 1 91 24 321 457 18th Ohio Battery 2 2 9th Pennsylvania Cavalry (detachment) 2 5 6 13 224 Wisconsin Infantry 2 1 28 11 118 160 Total 1 47 7 240 75 1, 076 1,446 No. 3. Reports of Brig. Gen. Charles C. Gilbert, U. S. Army, commanding at Franklin, Tenn. FRANKLIN, TENN., March 2, 1863. I have had nothing since yesterday from Colonel Coburn. I have just sent for him to come to this place with his brigade. The enemy has been crowding my pickets for about an hour and a half or two hours. If the demonstration is a serious one, it will be with the forces of Van Dorn and Wheeler, estimated at 10,000. The report from the Carter Creek [turnpike] is that there is a battery in sight, but as it has not opened, I am not sure of the fact. The Michigan cavalry has just gone out, and before sunset I can give you something re]iable. C. C. GILBERT, Brigadier- General. Major-General GRANG-ER. FRANKLIN, TENN., March 5,1863. Colonel Coburn has not made much progress along the Columbia pike. I can hear his guns not far off, probably not more than 6 miles. C. C. GILBERT, Brigadier. General. Brigadier-General GARFIELD, Chief of Staff. NASHVILLE, FORWARD FROM FRANKLIN, March 5, 1863. After some considerable succ& s, Colonel Coburn has been repulsed, and the command is coming baek. The artillery is safe, but some of the infantry has been captured. C. C. GILBERT, .~rigadier- General. General ROSECRANS. Capt. Abner Floyd Page 76 76 KY., MIp. AND E. TENN., N. ALA., AND SW. VA. [CIIAP. XXXV. FRANKLIN, TENN., March 5, 1863. GENERAL: Colonel Jordan, with the Kintli Pennsylvania Cavalry, next in rank to Colonel Coburn, represents the force of the enemy at 10,000, and even more, nearly all infantry, five pieces of artillery, and between 2,000 and 3,000 cavalry. Three regiments of infantry are missing; the artillery and cavalry have returned without much loss. The infantry in the retreat broke for the woods and hills, and many have come in dur- ing the night. Colonel Coburn did not believe the enemy was in force, as he had repulsed them yesterday, but he [had] only met the advance cavalry. Colonel Jordan says Yan Born was on his way to attack me yesterday, and was taken by surprise by our advance on them. Colo- nel Coburns instructions were issued from the telegram from head- quarters, signed by Brigadier-General Garfield, to go to Spring Hill to ascertain the force in our front. He was fully apprised of the impor- tance of not becoming vulnerable. C. C. GILBERT, Brigadier-General. Brigadier-General GARFIELD. NASHVILLE, March 5, 1863. GENERAL: The following just received from Franklin, to General Granger: FRANKLIN, March 5, 1863. Major-General GRANGER: Major [L. S.] Scranton, Second Michigan Cavalry, gives the following account of the expedition sent out yesterday forenoon: About 2 oclock the enemy offered his first opposition. He showed about 1,200 cav- alry and four pieces of cannon. This force contested the advance of Colonel Coburn, chiefly with artillery, for about one hour, and then yielded the ground for the day, showing only some force on each flank, but at a distance. The command went into camp about 4 miles from here. In the morning, about 8 oclock, the march was re- sumed, and about 2 miles skirmishin~, ensued, which continued some 2 miles farther, up to Thompsons Station, on the railroad, the enemy stoutly contesting the ground. Just before reaching the station here, a battle began, and continued about two hour and a half. Colonel Coburn havin~, achieved some success, proceeded to storm one of the enemys batteries, when he was drawn into a line of greatly superior forces, enveloping him on both flanks. The artillery and cavalry and train were extricated, but most of the infantry is still missing, and probably is captured or destroyed. I pre- sume Colonel Coburn thought he was contending only with the forces he had driveu the previous day, as the enemy kept concealed among the wooded knobs. After the action bad continued some time, the ammunition on our left beginning to fail, the enemy closed in strongly on our left, and our lines gave way. C. C. GILBERT, Brigadier- General of Volunteers, Commanding. ROBT. B. MITCHELL, Brigaier- General. Brigadier-General GARFIELD, Chief of Staff. FRANKLIN, TENN., ]Jifarch 14, 1863. GENERAL: In reply to ;our note of this afternoon, I respectfully sub- mit the following: On the evening of w~arch 3, 1 received from he dquarters Army of the Cumberland a telegraphic order to send a brigade out on the Columbia pike, as a part of a combined movement to ascertain what the enemy had in front of General ~ forces. As my own troops were scattered through the town, or engaged i Page 77 CHAP. XXXV.] ENGAGEMENT AT THOMPSONS STATION, TENN. 77 work which, was of importanc~, I deemed it mosu xpcditio s to send Colonel Coburn, whose command was compact and ready to move. Sending for the colonel, therefore, I placed the telegram in his hands, and directed him to move out in the morning and perform the service therein prescribed. I discussed with him freely the whole movement, its object and the degree of discretion allowed him, nd the danger to which his command might be exposed by the want of co-operation upon the part of the forces to his left. All these points were most fully dis- cussed, and appeared to be fully nnderstood by him. Accompanying this are copies of some official communications which have a bearing on this matter. No. 1. The telegraphic order directing the movement to be made. No. 2. My order organizing the command and putting it in motion. No. 3. Colonel Cobnrns first note to me. No. 4. Colonel Coburns second note to me. No. 5. Colonel Coburns third and last note to me. No. 6. Captain Johnstons report. No. 7. Colonel Jordans report.* Captain Johnston was sent out by me to look around and bring in- formation back. Being a man of cool judgment, I sent him out for that purpose, as some of the flying reports were wild and extravagant. I had discussed the movement so fully with Colonel Coburn that I had but little occasion to correspond with him after he set out. The only note I wrote him I have no copy of; its substance was to approve of his sending his wagons back, and to remind him that he had quite a large margin and a wide discretion. During the 5th, I had no correspondence with him, and did not hear from him until I heard of the defeat of his command. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, C. C. GILBERT, Briga Ncr- General. Brig. Gen. A. BAIRD, Commanding Third Division, Army of Kentucky. [Inclosuro No. 1.] FRANKLIN, TENN., .i arch 3, 1863. Brig. Gen. C. C. GILBERT: The general commanding directs you to send a brigade and a suffi- cient cavalry force to-morrow on the Columbia pike as far as Spring Hill. Send out a party from there toward Columbia, and one through to Raleigh Springs, on the Lewisburg pike. A cavalry force from here will communicate with your party at that place some time during the day after to-morrow. We desire to know what is in our front. Take a forage train along. Have you any news ~ J. A. GARFIELD, Brigadier-General and Chief of AS1taff. [Inclosure No. 2.] SPECIAL ORDERS, HEADQUARTEES UNITED STATES FORCES, No. 15. In Camp, near Franklin, Tenn., March 3, 1863. * * * * * * * VI. Colonel Coburn, with his brigade and battery and 600 cavalry, will to-morrow morning, at 8 oclock, proceed along the Columbia pike See No. 4, p. 79 Page 78 78 KY., MID. AND E. TENS., ~. ALA., AND SW. VA. [CHAr. XXXV. as far as Spring Hill, and send out a party from there toward Columbia and one through to Raleigh Springs, on the Lewisburg pike, where a cavalry force from Murfreesborongh will communicate with it on the ensuing day. VII. Colonel [A. P.] Campbell will furnish the cavalry from the three regiments. Colonel [0. II.] Payne, One hundred and twenty-fourth Ohio, with Ii is regiment, will report to Colonel Coburn, to accompany this command. Four clays rations will be taken, two in the haversacks and two in the wagons. A forage train of 80 wagons will accompany the expeditions Only 4 wagons to the regiment and 2 to the battery will be allowed. By order of Brigadier-General Gilbert: GEO. K. SPEED, Lieutenant and Acting Assistant Adjutant- General. [Inclosure No. 3.] HEADQUARTERS, & C., [March , 1863.] General GILBERT: You were not informed by the messenger that the rebels had artillery. We could [not] tell how much. They fired shell, I think, from Parrott guns. We have no means of ascertaining exactly their artillery force. I think it is unsafe, for the teams at least. It is so long and requires so much force to watch it. One of our cannon is disabledthe axle broken. Very respectfully, JOHN COBURN, Colonel, Commanding. [Inclosuro No. 4.] HEADQUARTERS FIRST BRIGADE, THIRD DIVISION, Three and a half miles out, , 1863. General GILBERT: We are on the Columbia road, and have repnlsed a force of abont 2,000 to 3,000 rebel cavalry. They have disappeared in front and are now flanking us ou our leftthat is, on the Lewisburg pike. They are now nearer than we are to Franklin. What shall we do ~ I think we can advance, but there will be at once a force in our rear. Very respectfully, JOHN COBURN, Colonel, ~c. [Inolosure No. 5.] HEADQUARTERS FIRST BRIGADE, March 4, 18637.30 p. m. Licutenaut SPEED, Acting Assistant Adjutant- General: We are in camp about 4 miles from town. The detached forces not having all yet come in, we moved only a short distance forward. A rebel force, variously estimated at 1,000 to 3,000, is on the Lewisburg pike 2 miles to our left. The Second Michigan Regiment, sent with us, is on that road yet. I have sent for them. I think it quite important that they be not allowed to go to our rear, but have not force enough to prevent it. I cannot afford to scatter 2 miles to the left or right with a doubtful prospect of success. IBefore, on a hill and in a wood, we drove in the rebel pickets till sun Page 79 CHAP. XXXV.) ENGAGEMENT AT THOMPSONS STATION, TENN. 79 down. They seem to be in camp in front a few miles off. I have no idea of their numbers; negroes say they have infantry, cavalry, and artillery there. We have out a strong picket force. To-day we sent in 39 wagons of fora~e; 4 rebels and 2 horses were killed, and the wounded not knowna woman says 1~. There is a lack of ammunition for the battery, only 100 rounds; I have sent for more. I suppose the ammunition, the cannon, and a cav- alry company will come out in the morning, unless otherwise ordered by you. I sent in the cannon for repairs to-day, and a cavalry company goes in tonibht. Yours, respectfully, JOHN COBURN, Colonel, Commanding. [Thclosure No. 6.) IIDQRS. COMPANY M, SECOND MICHIGAN CAVALRY, Brigadier-General GILnERT, - Franklin, Tenn., March 4, 1863. ~iJommanding Forces, Franklin, Tenn.: SIR: In accordance with a verbal order received from you to-day at noon, requiring me to visit the command of Colonel Coburn and notify you of his condition and the probable force of the enemy, I have the honor to submit the following report: I found Colonel Coburn and his command about 4 miles from Frank- lin, on the Columbia pike, on the ground occupied by him during the skirmish a few hours before. I was shown the ground upon which the enemy were drawn up in line before the skirmish; it was between 400 and 500 yards in length. After a short fight, the enemy had been driven from his position in some disorder. Soon after the skirmish t under Colonel Jordan, had been sent over to the , he cavalry, Lewisburg pike to look after a force said to be there. From what information I can gather, and my own estimate of the enemys numbers, from the extent of his line, and the ground over which it was drawn up, I do not think there are 1,000 men, all cavalry, and three pieces of artillery. Colonel Jordan reported in person to Colonel Coburn, stating that he had found a force on the Lewisburg pike, and left the Second Michigan Cavalry to hold it in check. The command moved forward a mile or more, meeting with no resistance. Colonel Coburn said be would go into camp there for the night, as it was then ]ate, and his cavalry was not all in; he was also short of artillery ammunition. He is in a good deal of doubt as to the intentions of the enemy, and not over-confident. I am, sir, very respectfully, THOMAS W. JOHNSTON (aptain Second Michigan Cavalry, Commanding Company M. No. 4. Report of Col. Thomas J. Jordan, Ninth Pennsylvania Cavalry. HEADQUARTERS NINTH PENNSYLVANIA CAVALRY, Franklin, Tenn., March 6, 1863. SIR: As the senior officer remaining of the expedition to Spring Hill, as directed by Special Orders, No. 15, from the headquarters of J3riga- dier-General Gilbert, commanding at Franklin, Tenn., I be~ leave t Page 80 80 KY., MID. AND IX TENN., N. ALA., AND SW. VA. (CHAP. Xxxv. report that the expedi tion~consisting of Colonel Coburns brigade, and 600 cavalry, detached from the Ninth Pennsylvania, the Fourth Kentucky, and the Second Michigan, nnder my command, and the Eighteenth Ohio Battery, Captain Aleshire, all under the command of Colonel Coburn, of the Thirty-third Indiana Infantryleft Franklin about 9 oclock on the morning of March 4, their line of march being on the direct road toward Spring Hill and Columbia. The regiments marched with but 4 wagons each, and a train of SO wagons brought up the rear for foraging purposes. The expedition was ordered to march in a body to Spring Hill, 13 miles distant, at which point a part of the cavalry was to be detached to march npQn Raleigh Springs, on the Lewis- burg road, to meet certain United States forces from the direction of Mnrfreesborough. About 4 miles from Franklin, and about 10.30 a in., the advanced guard of onr forces came in contact with the advance forces of the en- emy, marching, it is said, to attack our position at Franklin. Lines of battle were at once formed, the enemy occupying a range of hills cross- ing the turnpike at right angles, while we took post on a knoll to the left of the road, our right extending over the undulating ground toward the railroad and our left to some wooded hills and ravines in the direc- tion of the Lewisburg road. Our battery was at once brought forward and placed on the hill to the left, while that of the enemy was placed in a corresponding position upon their right, with one piece on a large hill to the left of their position. The first shell was fired from our guns at 10.40 a. in., and in a moment afterward a corresponding messenger came from the enemy. The lines of the enemys cavalry were drawn up in full view on the face of the hills, within half-mile range and to the right and left of their batteries. A few rounds from our guns caused the en- emy to withdraw behind the hills to their rear, but I noticed large bodies of their cavalry filing to the right and left from the turnpike in the rear of their batteries, and taking position under the cover of the hills. The batteries continued for about an hour and a half to thunder their com- pliments to each other, when I discovered a position to our right from which a ravine in which they had massed large,bodies of their forces could be shelled. I at once ordered up one piece to the position, and a few shells cleared the enemy of their support to their battery on our left, and it was at once withdrawn. The enemy then retreated, leaving some 15 killed and carrying away a large number of wounded. During the battle our skirmishers were hotly engaged on the left in the hills and ravines, and at every -point drove the enemy from their position. Our loss in this action was but 2 men wounded, both slightly. I have no doubt but that the force of the enemy was from 3,000 to 4,000 cavalry, with four pieces of artillery, one of which lost a wheel in the action, which was knocked to pieces by one of our shells. I also saw five or six (though I was informed there were more) horses that were killed by our shells. Just as the action ceased, Colonel Coburn was informed that a large body of the enemys cavalry was approaching Franklin by the Lewisburg road, and I immediately directed my cavalry upon its flank, upon which it retired. We encamped that night upon the position held by the enemy iu the morning. On the morning of the 5th, soon after daylight, our column was again in motion, in the direction of Spring Hill. By order of Colonel Coburn, I directed the Fourth Kentucky Cavalry, under my command, to ob- serve the Carter Creek turnpike on our right and the Lewisburg road on our left, to see that no flanking force should gain our rear, and, wit Page 81 CHAP XXXV.] ENGAGEMENT AT THOMPSONS STATION, TENTh 81 the Ninth Pennsylvania and Second Michigan Cavalry deployed as flankers and skirmishers, moved cautiously on Spring Hill. About 1 mile from camp our skirmishers drove in the pickets of the enemy, who, after a few rounds, retired, but so slowly as to keep up a continual skir- mish till the battle opened. At the range of hills overlooking Thomp- sons Station, about 9 miles from Franklin, the skirmishers of the enemy made a very determined resistance, but we charged them, and they re- tired over the intervening valley and to the opposite hills. While this was going on, I halted the head of the column, but Colonel Coburn rode up and ordered it to advance, remarking that the enemy were in small force, and that we had nothing to fear. At this point the road turns sharply to the left and south (the previous direction for about 3 miles had been south of west), and for about three-quarters of a mile is per- fectly straight, leading to the hills that bound Thompsons Station on the south. The column hadproceeded on this straight road some 500 or 600 yards, and was just entering the jaws of the pass between the hills that we afterward occnpied as our position, when we were opened upon by a battery of the enemy, placed close on the right side of the road at about half-mile range. This was an 18-pounder, and the shell, passing close over the head of the column, struck in the ditch on the left of the road about 150 yards in the rear, and within a few feet of the side of the column, exploding and plowing np the dirt and stones, but, by some wonderful interposition of Providence, without killing or wounding any one. A 6-pounder also opened at the same moment, bnt the shell fell a few yards to the left in the field, doing no damage. The new troops were at once deployed to the right and left under the hills, to protect them from the shells that were now literally rained upon them, and our artillery brought forward and placed in position three guns upon the hill to the left and two upon the hill to the right of the road, and in a few moments were hotly engaged. In a moment a battery of the enemy of four guns (which had heretofore been masked) opened upon our left flank, completely covering the ground upon which our infantry and cavalry ~v ere placed, making it necessary to change their position, and also completely flanking our guns, and a battery to our right had pre- viously opened upon our skirmishers in the valley, near Thompsons Station. This battery Colonel Coburn determined to charge and take, hoping to throw back the left wing of the enemy npon their center and force the position. This was the culminating point in the battle. The column was formed, and moved from its position behind the guns over the crest of the hill and down into the valley below, pre- pared to charge the battery, while the enemys guns thundered their shell upon it from front and flank. It bravely withstood the shock, and moved steadily forward, though its track through the fields could be plainly marked by the human mile-stones left in its rear. All at once the artillery on the side of the enemy ceased playing, and a dense mass of infantry began to show itself on the hills in our front. Colonel Coburn at once saw that all would be lost unless the column could be again retired behind our guns, and sent an officer to order it to fall back. But it was then too late; the avalanche had been started, and came sweeping down upon it, while from behind a stone fence near the railroad a perfect storm of lead was thrown upon it. Seeing that all wa~ lost, I was ordered by Colonel Coburn to call in my cavalry and form it in such position as to cover his retreat. I at once proceeded to execute the movement necessary to prepare for retreat, and formed my cavalry behind a small strip of woods ab~u~ 6 i~ UVOL XXIII, PT Page 82 82 KY., MID. AND E. TE TN., N. ALA., AND SW. VA. [ChAr. XXXV. a fourth of a mile to the rear of the battery and ~irect1y skirting the Franklin road, at yhe point where the road turns to the east; and, seeing the infantry of the enemy moving from the hill occupied by their flank- ing battery, with the intention of cutting off our retreat and capturing the battery and wagon train, I at once ordered Majors [L. S.] Scranton, of the Second Michigan, and [C-.] Jones, of the Ninth Pennsylvania Cav- alry, to dismount such part of my command as might be necessary, and take advantage of the fences and inequalities of the ground, and, it pos- sible, drive them off till I could withdraw the battery and be joined by Colonel Coburns infantry. I at once ordered the battery to withdraw from the hill to the left of our position, as a swarm of rebel infantry was about to inclose it, and then dashed off to a hill on the right and withdrew the two pieces stationed there, and just in time, as the rebel line was within 60 yards of them and they entirely unprotected, the infantry, under Colonel Coburn, having retreated through the hills to the right of our position and in a directly opposite direction from the point I was holding to cover its retreat. After getting the guns under my protection, ii waited (though my whole line was engaged with the enemy) at least fifteen minutes, hoping that Colonel Coburn would still come toward me, when, finding that the firing on my right was reced- ing, while that on my left was approaching, and that nothing but stub- born resistance could save my flank, I ordered the retreat to begin. For 2 miles my men sustained, with unflinching bravery, the repeated assaults of more than three times their number, while others could be seen at double.quick still farther toward my rear. As I withdrew my men from one position, I had at once to place them in new ones to repel fresh attacks. To Major Scranton, in my extreme front and flank, and Major Jones, in my extreme rear, and the heroic bravery of the Second Michigan and Ninth Pennsylvania Cavalry, is due the safety of my retreat. After about 24 miles the enemys infantry withdrew, finding that they were foiled in cutting off my retreat. Their cavalry often caine in sight, but never participated for a moment in the en~agernent. About 3 oclock the firing ceased, and my retreat was no further interrupted. Had Colonel Coburn retreated by the Franklin road, not a man would have been lost. My column never moved a step till long after he was out of sight on the hills to my right. After passing the West Harpeth Creek, I for the first time heard that there was a regiment of infantry retreating from the field of battle without firing a gun, and that it was in front of the wagon train. Major Scranton was the first to make the discovery, and galloped forward to stop it till the artillery could be brought up. By whose order it was marched away in retreat I have no knowledge. I know Colonel (Joburn never issued such an order to it, and I did not know that it was in existence to give it an order. Had it remained upon the ground or sent to me for orders, I could not only have safely covered the retreat, but have given the enemy such a chas. tsement as would have made him more cautious in the future. The enemy report our killed at 65 and wounded at 250, while they, on their part, acknowledge a loss of 160 killed, with a very large propor- tion of wounded. I cannot speak too highly of the steadiness, discipline, and bravery of the troops under my command. Officers and men did theii? duty nobly. The Eighteenth Ohio Battery, of lon~-range liodman guns, ac- quitted themselves most nobly, and, though subjected to a cross-fire from the artillery of the enemy, never for a moment became excited, but stood to their guns, delivering their fire with regularity and precision. Th Page 83 CUAP. XX~Y.J ENGAGEMENT AT THOMPSONS STATION, TENN. 83 battery when withdrawn had but sixty-two shells on hand for the whole five guns. Colonel Coburn behaved with the greatest bravery, and was under fire during the whole battle. Chaplain Edmund MeKinney, of the Ninth Pennsylvania Cavaliy, rendered most essential service. IDur- lug the retreat he remained with the rear guard, and by hi coolness and bravery during a most critical moment, when hundreds of the enemy were thrown upon a handful, contributed largely to the safety of my command. Capt. Charles A. Appel, Compa ~y F, Ninth Pennsylvania Cavalry, with his own and parts of Companies A, G, II, and L, with a few of the Second Michigan Cavalry, constituted the rear guard. Captains [D. II.] Kimumel, [W. II.] Lon~sdorf and [CL] Waters, and Lieutenants [E. A.] Hancock and [B. G.1 ileistand, of the Ninth Pennsylvania Cav- alry, behaved with marked coolness and bravery. The loss on the part of the Ninth Pennsylvauia Cavalry was 1 killed, 6 wounded, 1 mortally (who died during the night), and 6 taken pris. oners. On the part of the S~cond Michigan, 2 men killed and 11 wounded. Of the Eighteenth Ohio Battery, 1 man is missing. Respectfully submitted. THOS. J. JORDAN, Colonel Tinth Pennsylvania Cavalry. Capt. WILLIAM C. RUSSELL, Assistant Adjutant- General. No. 5. Report of Brig. (Jen. Absalom Baird, U. S. Army, commanding Third Division, Army of Kentucky. IIDQRS. THIRD DIVISION, ARMY OF KENTUCKY, Franklin, Tenn., March 11, 1863. SIR: In reply to your note of the 7th instant, desiring a report of the losses sustained by my division in the affair of the 5th, since known as the battle of Thompsons Station, and of the circumstances connected therewith, I have the honor to state that the First Brigade of my divis- ion, commanded by Colonel Coburn, Thirty-third Indiana Volunteers, and consisting of the Thirty-third and Eighty-fifth Indiana, Twenty- second Wisconsin, and Nineteenth Michigan Volunteer Regiments, was detached from my immediate supervision on the 21st nltimo~ and re- moved from Nashville to Breutwood, a point midway between that place and Franklin, with orders to the commanding officer to hold himself in readiness to march to the support of General Gilbert at the latter point, should he call for his assistance. Upon the 2d instant, in obedience to a summons from General Gilbert, Colonel Coburn marched to this place, and upon the 4th, in obedience to orders from the same commander, given by direction of Major~Gen- eral Rosecrans, lie moved out upon the Columbia road in the direction of Spring 11111. Owing to the captume of Colonel Coburn and of most of his officers in the battle of the 5th, it has been impossible to procure such reports of subsequent occurrences as are desirable. I inclose, however, a report from Brigadier-General Gilbert, together with copies of his orders to Colonel Coburn, and of the entire correspondence between them subse- quent to the order to march; likewise reports from Lieutenant-Cob Page 84 84 KY., MID. AND E. TENN., N. ALA., AND SW. VA. [CHAP. XXXV~ nel I3loodgood, the only field officer of my command who escaped; from Colonel Jordan, who commanded the cavalry; from Captain Aleshire, of the artillery, and from the assistant adjutant-general and quartermaster npon Colonel Coburns staff. These contain all the facts that 1 have been able to collect in relation to the disaster in ques- tion. A court of inquiry might elicit further facts, which it would be desirable to place upon record, but its conclusions would still be un- satisfactory, so long as the presence of Colonel Coburn or some of the officers with him cannot be secured. Colonel Coburns command was composed of his own brigade, which, exclusive of details and those absent sick, & c., marched with the fol- lowing aggregate force: Thirty-third Indiana 606 Eighty-fifth Indiana 330 Twenty-second Wisconsin 378 Nineteenth Michigan 531 Total effective men 1,845 Likewise Aleshires (Eighteenth Ohio) battery, consisting of six Rod- man rifled guns, a small regiment from General Gilberts division, the One hundred and twenty-fourth Ohio, which remained as a rear guard to the train and did not enter the combat, and portions of the Second Michigan and Ninth Pennsylvania Cavalry Regiments, about 600 mounted men. The loss in my division is represented as follows: n~i Command. . ~ 33d Indiana 4 19 482 85th Indiana 4 19 261 22d Wisconsin. 8 10 148 19th Michigan 22 432 13 10 Total* 1,323 Taking a loss of 1,406 out of 1,815. The battery had, I believe, 1 man captured, and the loss in the cavalry was likewise slight. We learn from the enemy that from 30 to 50 of our men were killed and 150 wounded, while they acknowledge a loss four times as great in killed and three times as great in wounded. With few exceptions our troops fought with great gallantry, notwith- standing the overwhelming numbers of the enemy, and Colonel Coburn exhibited the utmost coolness, determination, and g9odjudgment during the fight. The bravery of the little band surrounded and captured was so conspicuous as to elicit the applause of the enemy himself~ and we are informed that Colonels Coburn and Gilbert, and Major [W. R.] Shafter, of the Nineteenth Michigan, were permitted on this account to retain their horses and side-arms. It is thought by many that a more vigorous use of the three pieces of artillery posted at first upon the left of the road might have repulsed the final attack from the left, and, perhaps, have opened a way for the escape of the entire force. The inclosed documents contain all I know But see revised statement. p. 75 Page 85 CHAP. XXXV.] ENGAGEMENT AT THOMPSONS STATION, TENN. 85 U~OII the subject. It will appear that the guns upon the left were withdrawn from their position without orders from Colonel Coburn. Whether this movement was at the time compulsory is a question. I am, sir, most respectfully, your obedient servant, A. BAIRD, Brigadier- General, Commanding Division. Lieut. J. S. FULLERTON, Aide-de- Gamp, & c., Headquarters Army of Kentucky. No. 6. Report of Got. John Goburn, Thirty-third Indiana Infantry, commanding First Brigade. HEADQUARTERS FIRST DIVISION, RESERVE CORPS, ]Vfurfreesborough, Tenn., August 30, 1863. Capt. W. C. RUSSELL, Asst. Adjt. Gen., District of the Gumberland, Nashville, Tent.: CAPTAIN: I have the honor to forward herewith the report of Col. Johu Coburn, Thirty-third Indiana Volunteers, commanding Third Bri- gade, First Division, Reserve Corps, of the part his command took in the action at Thompsons Station, March 5, 1863, his capture and treatment of himself, officers, and men while prisoners of war, and prior to his arrival at Annapolis, Md., together with sub-reports of officers com- manding regiments and detachments in Colonel Coburns command. Not being in command of the division at that time, I respectfully re- frain from adding anything to the report, but submit the whole for the consideration of the general commanding the district. Respectfully, your obedient servant, JAMES B. STEEDMAN, Brigadier- General, Commanding Division. HDRS. THIRD BRIGADE, FIRST DIVISION, RESERVE CORPS, DEPARTMENT OF THE CUMBERLAND, ]lturfreesborough, Teun., August 1, 1863. CAPTAIN: I have the honor to report that on the 2d day of March, A. D. 1863, my brigade, composed of the Thirty-third Regiment Indiana Volunteer Jnfantry, the Twenty-second Regiment Wisconsin Volunteer Infantry, the Nineteenth Regiment Michigan Volunteer Infantry, the Eighty-fifth Regiment Indiana Volunteer Infantry, and the Eighteenth Ohio Battery, being encamped at Breutwood, Tenn., I received from Brig. Gen. C. C. Gilbert, then in command at Franklin, Tenn., an order to march to that place, then threatened by a rebel force, an attack hav- ing been made on his southern line of outposts. The brigade was at once moved, and arrived at Franklin that night at 10 oclock. The bri- gade~ remained in camp the next day (March 3). At 11 oclock at night of the 3d, an order was received to march the bri~ade, together with the One hundred and twenty-fourth Ohio Volunteer Infantry and 600 cav- alry, composed of the Ninth Pennsylvania, the Second Michigan, and the Fourth Kentucky, under the command of Colonel Jordan, upon the next morning at an early hour. A foraging train of 80 wagons was to be taken, the men to be supplied with four days rations. The expedition was to proceed to Spring Hill the first day, and encamp. On the se& Page 86 86 KY., MID. AND E. TENN., N. ALA., AND SW. VA. [OnAr. XXX~. ond day to divide the force, a part to go to Raleigh Hill and there wait till night to meet an armed force coming from. Murfreeshorough, Teun. If the force did not come by nightfall, to return to Spring Hill. The other part of the force was at the same time to march for the direction of Columbia, and, retu riling to Spring Hill, meet the force that had been to Raleigh Hill. On the morning of the 4th of March, the entire command, consisting of 2,837 men and officers of all arms, moved out from Franklin, the weather being cool and favorable. The road is a turnpike, and the men marched with facility. Having advanced to the south about 4 miles, a considerable force of cavalry was discovered in front of us. It proved to be about 1,000 monuted men, with two pieces of artillery. I had the forces brought up at once, the cavalry deployed and advanced to the right of the road. The Thirty-third Indiana and Twenty-second Wis- consin also on the ri~,ht, with a section of the battery; the One hundred and twenty~fourth Ohio and the Nineteenth Michigan, with two sections of the battery, on the left; the Eighty-fifth Indiana in the rear, about half a mile, with the train. The face of the country here was much broken, presenting to the eye long swells and ridges, from 50 to 200 feet in height, in many places quite steep and precipitous. A view greater in extent than a range of half a mile could not be had except in the direction of the road. Thus a large part of the country was concealed from view. Our guns, posted on a slight elevation, had a range of near 1 mile uninterrupted by the hills directly down the road. The enemy began fire from his two pieces of artillery, and was replied to by ours; for about an hour a brisk cannonade was kept up by both parties, re- sulting in no Loss on our side; but, according to the report of the enemy, on theirs of 15 killed and wounded. While this was progressing, three regiments of infantry and a l)ortion of the cavalry were advanced Thirty-third Indiana, nuder Lieutenant-Colonel Henderson; Twenty- second Wisconsin, Colonel Utley; Nineteenth Michiga~n, Colonel Gilbert. As they advanced, the rebels fell back, and totally disappeared in front for a time. Quite a number soon after appeared on the high hills to our left, and it being reported that a force of some 1,200 to 1,500 were on the Lewisburg road, a mile to our left, and attempting to gain our rear, I ordered the advanced forces to fall back, which was done, to our first position. Here they remained about three hours, awaiting orders, the general, in Franklin, having been informed of the forces seen in front and flank and their movements. In the mean time the cavalry had been directed to examine thoroughly the country on our left, and drive back any force that might attack us in that direction. No attack was made by either party, and the result of skirmishing in that direction was 2 slightly wounded on our side. At length orders came to send back the foraging train. This was done at once, half of it having been already loaded. An advance of some 2 miles was made with the force, when we fell back a short distance and went into camp. The result of this days engagement was, on our part, 3 men slightly wounded (1 Nineteenth Michigan and 2 Ninth Pennsyl- vania Cavalry) and one piece of artillery disabled. Apprehending an attack that night, the regiments were put upon the alert, and a consid- erable force slept under arms. An occasional picket firing during the night was all that occurred. A new supply of artillery ammunition was sent for and arrived before daylight. The Ninth Pennsylvania Cavalry were also newly armed during the night. March 5, soon after daylight, two negro boys, about twelve years of age, were brought into camp, who said they had come fron4 Van PoviV Page 87 CHAP. XXXV.] ENGAGEMENT AT THOMPSONS STATION, TENN. 87 army, and that it was out tliis side of Spring Hill, and was coming on to take Franklin. I sent them at once, with some mounted men, to Gen- eral Gilbert; I heard nothing from my messenger. Patrols were sent out on the roads which came into the Spring Hill road, right and left. Scouts were dispatched in all directions, with orders to scour the coun- try, and we awaited reports from the flanking roads. At length, about 8 oclock, no force having been discovered as yet, we moved onthe cavalry in advancewith a long line of skirmishers across the road, extending near a half mile in either direction. One piece of artillery was placed with the advanced guard, some three-fourths of a mile to the front of the main force. Advancing slowly, with frequent halts, the skirmishers of the enemy alone could be seen in the road, or in the fields, woods, or hills on either side, retiring as we advanced. After an hours march, I was informed that a small party of the enemy, appar- ently an outpost, were seen on the Lewisburg pike. I directed a small force of Kentucky cavalry at once to drive them and thoroughly test the strength of the enemy there. Time was given to the cavalry to inspect the country thoroughly, which continued broken, and was, in many places, covered with woods, the farms being irregular in shape, and not very extensive, on account of hills and ravines. Quite a large outpost of the enemy was driven in about a mile from Thompsons Sta- tion, and 2 miles from our camp. They retired, skirmishing witifour dismounted cavalry, who pushed them handsomely across the fields and over the hills to the station. Before reaching Thompsons Station, the road passes a wooded hill to the left, with a field in the valley on the right, and, still beyond it, is bounded by a range of hills This field extends to the range of hills just north of Thompsons Station, and covers both ~ides of the road north of this range. The field becomes narrower on the east side of the road as it extends to the southeast, where it ends in a gap through the ridge. This ridge, or range of hills, trav- erses the road at nearly right angles, running east and west, and is broken into knobs, some of which, on the left, are covered with a thick growth of cedar. The turnpike and railroad pass through it by a gap, together. This ridge is also intersected by other gaps, right and left. Beyond it is an open field, a fourth of a mile wide, and on both sides of the road. On passing through the gap, the railroad turns from the gen- eral direction of the turnpike to the right and west. The station is situated about the middle of the field, and some 300 yards west of the turnpike; a small stream flows hy it to the west. Beyond the station and field is an extensive wood on each side of the road. The ground ascends as you approach it, and continues to ascend as you enter it, broken into irregular knolls. Here the enemy lay. As our force ap- proached the gap, the head of the column being in it, the enemy dis- charged a, piece of artillery stationed in the wood on the west of the road, raking it along our line. It failed of effect. The enemys skir- mishers had occupied the ridge on either side, but had been dislodged by the dismounted cavalry, and driven across the field to the station, where, for a time, they rallied, but soon retired before the skirmishers of the Thirty-third indiana, and under the shells of our battery, which had been brought up and stationed-two pieces to the right of the road and three on the east on the ridgethere, about 50 feet above the valley and fields in front. Here they commanded the road, the fields, a~d the woods, to the front, right, and left, for a considerable distance. The Thirty-third and Eighty-fifth Indiana were stationed on the right, and the Twenty-second Wisconsin and Nineteenth Michigan on the left and upon the ridge, near the three guns of the battery. Somo companieM o Page 88 88 KY., MID. AND E. TENN., N. ALA., AND SW. VA. [CHAP. XXXV. dismounted cavalry occupied a cedar-crowned knoll to the left of the Nineteenth Michigan. In its rear the main part of the cavalry were stationed. In the rear, a third of a mile, was the train, under guard of the One hundred and twenty-fourth Ohio. Such being the disposition of the forces, a demonstration was made by our cavalry on our extreme left, and the Thirty-third and Eighty-fifth Indiana were advanced to the station, with directions to charge the battery on the right of the road, if practicable. The Twenty-second Wisconsin, the Nineteenth Michigan, the battery, and most of the cavalry were held in reserve. Our artillery, soon after being stationed, began firing, which was re- sponded to by guns stationed at two points. The firing was kept up with great vigor during the advance to the depot, our column moving forward under a constant fire of shell and canister, as well as musketry, from a brigade posted behind a bank and stone fence beyond. The loss was slight, and the troops moved forward in separate columns rega- larly and steadily to the depot. As this force advanced, a large num- ber of the enemy arose from their covert on their extreme left and rallied to the battery beyond the depot. At this moment I was informed that a force of 1,000 or more cavalry had been discovered advancing on our left, a mile distant, in the neighborhood of the Lewisburg road. I im- mediately ordered the regiment to withdraw from the depot, intending at once to retreat, being convinced that we were in the neighborhood of an overwhelming force. Lieutenant Bachman, my quartermaster, bore the order. They began to retire. The enemy with a cheer followed. Colonel Jordan was directed to bring two companies of his cavalry to support the regiments as they retired. He went off. I saw him no more. I saw them no more, although I sent for them. The fire of musketry and artillery on our retiring men was heavy and galling, but they rallied, on crossing the field, in good order, and repulsed [J. W.] Whitfields and [George B.] Cosbys and one regiment of [F. C.] Arm- strongs brigades, driving them back beyond the depot. They sustained and repelled here, successively, three charges. To prevent an approach on our right, Captain Seaton, with two coin- panies of the Thirty-third Indiana, were posted upon an eminence about an eighth of a mile in that direction; they kept back all approaches there. During the advance to the depot, the battery did good firing; but, on being ordered to fire more slowly and carefully, ceased, and, as our men were falling back, began to leave its position. 1 directed them to resume firing and keep their place. On being told that ammunition might be exhausted, I directed Lieutenant Adams, my assistant adjutant-general, and Lieutenant Bachinan, acting assistant quartermaster, to examine all the ammunition chests and report the quantity on hand. They in- formed me that there were about 70 rounds to the gun of shell, grape, and canister. Deeming this ample for our retreat, I directed very careful use of it. Lieutenant Bachman was directed to turn the train, prepara- tory to a retreat. This he did expeditiously. In the mean time, while the enemy were pressing with great violence our right, they bore down with Forrest~s division and Armstrong~s bri- gade on our left. The dismounted cavalry on the hills to our left fell back, and the rebels planted two pieces of artillery in this position; its fire en- filaded the Nineteenth Michigan, which was directed to change front to the left. This was followed by a furious assault of dismounted men on our whole left. They were repulsed, and the attack was repeated. The Nineteenth Michigan fell back to the rear of the Twenty-second Wiscon- sin. The rebels were again repulsed. They then charged up the roa Page 89 CHAr. IXXY.] ENGAGEMENT kT TI1(~M1~ONS STATION, TENN. 89 to gain the space between the Thirty-third Indiana and Twenty-second Wisconsin. The two companies on the extreme right were brought over, and drove back the enemy from the left of the Thirty-third In- diana. The Nineteenth Michigan was ordered across the road and placed to their left. The Eighty-fifth Indiana h d already been brought from its position on the right of the Thirty-third Indiana and placed to the left of the position occupied by the Nineteenth Michigan. The Twenty-second Wisconsin now fell back to the left of the Eighty-fifth Indiana and retired. The enemy here again made successive assaults along this line, but were repulsed and driven off, and several prisoners taken. The battle-flag of Arm strongs brigade was taken by the Nine- teenth Michigan, and the enemy were completely routed, although our men were under not only the fire of their musketry, but their artillery, now posted near us, where our left lately stood. During the attack on the left, Whitfield and [James W.] Starnes renewed the attack on our right (the Thirty-third Indiana), but were again repulsed. As the right was being attacked, and before a serious assault had been made on our left, the cavalry disappeared; the artillery under Captain Aleshire followed hastily, although Lieutenants Adams and Bachman, of my staff, attempted to rally them, put them in position, and thus assist in covering our retreat. The battery was partially put in position in our rear by Lieutenant Adams, but, by the directions of Colonel Jordan and Captain Aleshire, ordered to move off without firing a gun upon the forces which were closing around on our left flank. The force thus fall- ing back took with it the One hundred and twenty-fourth Ohio, the am- bulance train, the ammunition train, and with it all hope of an orderly retreat or a continued successful resistance. As they disappeared, our whole front was pressed with the greatest vigor, requiring a firm resist- ance or a confused flight, resulting in the utter rout and destruction of the entire command. To the firmness with which oar position was held is due the safety of those who retreated to Franklin, holding the enemy at least two hours after they had gone, on the very ground they had left. Had all thus stood firmly, the chances of escape and an or4erly retreat were in our favor, even with the immense preponderance of force against us, but the task would have been most difficult, accompanied by severe loss and the constant exercise of caution, courage, and the highest activity. The enemy at length having been driven from our front at all points and silenced, our ammunition running low, and our train having gone, the brigade was moved to the woods farther to our right and rear. Here they met and attacked Forrests division, which had gained our rear, by coming through the hills on our left, and had been posted be- hind fences, trees, and other favorable positions, from our left across the road to our right in the rear. [W. T.] Martins brigade was also on the rear of our right. They occupied the entire opposite slope of a deep ra- vine which lay directly in our front, and whose precipitous side it would have been difficult to ascend. The brigade was formed in line, bayonets fixed, and all things made ready for a charge, under a galling fire, which cost us some of our best men. The men would willingly have made the desperate venture without a shot in their cartridge-boxes. Nothing re- mained but to give the word to charge. I was convinced that a massacre would ensue, to little purpose; that a few might escape, but that many would fall in a vain struggle for life with unequal weapons. I ordered a surrender. I believe it was justi- fied by the circumstances. Itwas then found that we bad been opposing General Fan Dorns er~tir Page 90 90 KY., MID. AND E. TENN., N. ALA., AND SW. VA. [CHAr. XXXV. armysix brigades, under Generals Forrest, Martin, Cosby, Starnes, [W. II.] Jackson, and Armstrong and Colonel Whitfield; that the greater p rt of the force had, on that morning, advanced on us from Spring Hill, 3 miles off, where they had been encamped about a week, having ferried the river at Columbia some two weeks before. The whole force amounted to about 15,000 men, with twelve pieces of artillery6 and 12 pounder guns; while the force under my command at the time of the surrender amounted to about 1,050, about 160 being taken at other places. The whole rebel force fought as infantry, and were armed with good carbines, Mississippi and Enfield rifles. The distance to Franklin was 9 miles. The contest had raged nearly five hours. No re-enforcements were in sight; none had been heard from. The enemy held the road far in our rear. The cavalry and artillery had gone two honrs. We had no ammunition. The enemy was mounted. His bat. teries raked the road, and his men, in thousands, hung upon every advantageous post in our rear. We had exhausted all means of destruction, except our bayonets; beyond their reach, we were power- less. That a colonel of cavalry and a captain of artillery should, with- out orders, and against orders, leave the field with their entire commands, in haste, and without notice to me, at the very moment when they should have put forth their greatest exertions to repel the enemy rush- ing upon us, and carry also with them an infantry regiment, on duty as a Leserve, with the train, and with it all our ammunition, was a con- tingency against which human foresight could not provide, and left the surrounded and unflinching men, who withstood the storm, no al- ternative but a disgraceful and fatal flight, or to do as they didfight till further resistance was vain. Had it ever been possible to retire from the immediate presence of so large a force, it was only so by the united action of every man. But with a thousand men suddenly with- drawn, with our two niost formidable arms in retreat, cavalry and ar- tillery taken away, with the road thus opened for the flanking forces, the contest was reduced to a mere question of endurance. Perhaps, had all stood firmly, the result would have been the same. I think it would not. If re-enforcements had come, even amounting to a single re,,iment and a battery, I am confident our withdrawal could have been hand. somely effected. To the commanding officers of the regiments, Colonels Utley, Twenty- second Wisconsin, Gilbert, Nineteenth Michigan, Baird, Eighty-fifth Indiana, and Henderson, Thirty-third Indiana, I am compelled, by their conspicuous daring and gallantry, to return my thanks; they did all that officers in their position could do. The field officers, Lieutenant- Colonel Crane, Majors Shafter, Craig, Miller, and Smith, were at their posts bravely doing their duty. The adjutants of the regiments did nobly. To the line officers and the men, who so faithfully and fearlessly drove back the foe, is due whatever can be said in favor of heroic courage and self-sacrifice. Their firm, persistent, triumphant repulse of assault after assault by overwhelming numbers gave proof that on a fairer field victory would have been an easy prize. My staff officers, Lieutenant Adams, Nineteenth Michigan, and Lieu- tenant Bachman, Thirty-third Indiana, rendered me most valuable as- sistance, and were cut off in the retreating train, vainly endeavoring to rally the scattering forces and place the artillery in such position as would have prevented the flanking force under Forrest from effecting his purpose. Lieutenant [Capt. Charles II.] Toll, assistant commissary of subsistence, rendered valuable assistance also. The officers of the One hundred and twenty-fourth Ohio, under command of Lieutemiaut-Colone Page 91 CuAr. XXXV.] ENGAGEMENT AT THOMPSON~S S VATION, TENN. 91 Pickands, so far as they came under my eye, did well. My orderly, [David 0.] Brown, of the Nineteenth Michigan, Company B, did his duty all the day most faithfully and courageously. I append a list of our killed, wounded, and missing in battle, showing the numbers of each. I refer to the reports of regimental commanders, herewith forwarded, for their names. I also append a list of those who died of exposure and cruel treatment by the enemy during captivity: Wounded. a 6 a -a Command. Rematks. N a a ~ ~ -~ ~ 0 ~ A~ .s ~ ~ H P H lId Indiana 17 14 32 37 100 0 109 3 officers. 22d Wisconsin 7 19 26 16 42 2 officers. 19th Michigan 20 33 42 37 1 113 10 143 85th Indiana . 13 I 21 34 30 64 4 officers. 9th Pennsylvania Cavalry 1 1~ 5 7 7 2d Michigan Cavalry 2 6 5 13 13 4th Kentucky Cavalry No loss. 124th Ohio Do. 18th Ohio Battery Do. Total5 60 28 120 84 1 293 85 378 The losses of the enemy, I believe, were much more severe than ours, as they, by their repeated charges, over open ground, were much more exposed. We saw many of them killed and wounded. I believe the number would approximate 500. Among them Colonel [S. C-.] Earle, of the Third Arkansas, and Captain [W. T.] Watson, General Armstrongs assistant adjutant-general. I append a statement of occurrences during the time the officers were prisoners, believing it to be a legitimate matter of report. After our surrender we were marched to Columbia, Tenn., and re- inained there during the night, the men Without rations. On the next day, such was the scarcity of provisions, we had nothing but meat to eat, a pound a day being the ration. At night of the second day we biv- ouacked in the woods. The next morning we were furnished with a small quantity of bread, made of salt, water, and flour. This was the only bread furnished until our arrival at Shelbyville, two days after. Here we waited one day before receiving another small allowance of heavy, extemporized flour bread. Thanks to the Union women there, they courageously fed the famishing men, notwithstanding the continual in- stilts of Southern gentlemen. A small ration of meat was regularly fur- nished. Two days march from Shelbyville brought us to Tullahoma. This march was a terrible cue; the rain fell -in tori-ents, the streams were swollen, and were waist-deep. The water was chilling, and the night air as cold as March is in its most inclement moods. The prison- ers arrived at Tullahoma, General Braggs headquarters, about sunset, and were marched to a muddy spot of ground, used as a mule-pen for- merly, upon which were scattered, for fires, a few heaps of green oak logs. Nothing was there to sit down upon, or in any way to rest upon. There were buildings and woods near, but the men were denied their use. There was dry wood to be had, but it was reftised also. Th Page 92 92 ~ MID. AND E. TENN., N. ALA., AND SW. VA. [CHAP. XXXV officers were put in an old building, which shielded them from the pelt- ing storm that liad raged all day and continued through the night. A ration of meal and meat was issued; but vessels were not furnished to cook the meal; it was thrown away. Early in the morning we were waked, and then started to the cars. All overcoats, leggings, knap- sacks, and extra clothing were taken from men and officers. I demanded to know by whose order. The reply was, By order of General Bragg, in retaliation for an order of General Rosecrans, stripping Federal urn- forms from our soldiers. I answered, Strip off any rebel uniform found on us, adding that this was a cowardly and barbarous act, and the men engaged in it deserved hanging. I demanded an interview with General Bragg, saying that I believed it impossible for a man of his standing to enforce such a brutal order. This was refused. The men, shivering, half-starved, without sleep or rest, were then crowded into box-cars, without a seat, and started for Chattanooga. They were de- nied the privilege of getting sticks of wood at Tullahoma for seats in the cars. The floor of the one I was in was covered with wet manure. Thus we traveled that day to Chattanooga. On arriving there we were placed, without rations, for the night in a large frame house just erected for a hospital; crowded in, almost to suffocation. The next day about noon rations were dealt out to us in abundance. We all remember the hard bread of Chattanooga as the only feast in the Southern Confed. eracy. From this place we were conveyed by rail to Knoxville. For a few hours the Union people of Knoxville were allowed to bring provisions to us and converse with us, but the rebel citizens became infuriated at this, and the soldiers drove them away. We were guarded in a muddy, open space, where part of the prisoners lay or stood all night, although there was shelter in abundance near by, consisting of large sheds and depots. Here the exposures of our march began to tell fearfully on the men. Some could go no farther, and were left. Others, by their hag- gard looks and decrepit gait, testified that the hand of death would soon remove them from us. Inexorable as the gallows that had stood for two years by the railroad in the city of Knoxville for the execution of Union men were the hearts of rebel officers. From Knoxville we were carried by rail to Bristol, Tenn. Here we were turned off the cars, to lie again upon the damp and muddy ground, recently overflowed by a creek, although there was ample shelter in the town in the large sheds and houses near the railroad. Such was the brutality qf the physicians that they totally refused to visit our sick men here. All intercourse with the citizens was forbidden. We buried the dead, and urged the sick to drag along to a more humane community. At this place, after much delay, we received a small ration of heavy dour bread. We were taken to Lynchburg, Va. Here many went to the hospitals and died. Although the city contains a large number of empty houses, the men were marched to the Fair Grounds and put in open sheds. After remaining at Lynchburg a few days, we were started, in very inclement weather, in box-cars for Richmond. The snow fell to a depth of 18 inches. The trains were delayed; the men had not one days rations, and were on the road, in brokeu aud partially open cars, some two and some four days, without food or rest, and chilled through. From these cars they were marched to Libby Prison, and huddled, hun- dreds in a room, without fires or lights, like hogs in a slaughter.pen. Several died within half a day after their arrival at Richmond; many more followed them in the next few days. Neither food, medical attend- ance, air, or water were furnished, as the bare. t, sheerest humanity woul Page 93 CHAP. XXX~.I ENGAGEMENT AT THOMPSONS STATION, TENN. 93 dictate. The iron-hearted monsters who had charge of the prisons had no regard for suffering or for human life. We were closely confined the whole time; no visitors allowed; our correspondence withheld or (lestroyed for the most part Tore than 50 men fell victims in prison to the series of barbarities inflicted upon them from Tullahoma to Rich mond; others survived but a few days their exchange, and many others were disabled for life. Had our enemies given to those who fell by their cruelties the deadly and instant cup of poison, it would have been a mercy to the treatment they inflicted. The treatment of men in Libby Prison is such as only those imbued with malignant and devilish passions can suggest. The needless dis- comforts of cold, of crowded rooms, of filth, of vermin, of foul food, were added to the shameful and fatal brutalities of the march. The season was cold, bitter cold; not a window in the rooms was closed with glass. Food consisted of a scanty ration, half a pound a day of bread and of putrid, starveling meat, totally unfit for use, filling the room with a foul stench on being brought in; in addition, an occasional ration of rice or of black beaus. Neither sugar, coffee, good meat, or vegetables ever appeared as rations. Two wretched blankets were ,,iven to each officer and one to each mati; they were lousy, filthy, fetid. The prison swarmed with vermin. No opportunity was furnished to wash our blankets, not even soap or tubs in which to wash our wearing apparel. We became unhealthy by the use of the wretched food and by the filthiness of our bedding. Scurvy, itch, erysipelas, inflammatory sore throat, rheumatism, fever, loclijaw, delirium, and death in its most horrid forms were the legitimate results. The unrecorded catalogue of barbarities must remain for the final ac- count of the insatiate monsters who gloat upon the anguish of defense- less prisoners. Earnestly pleading for the privilege, I, with other officers, was denied a visit to the faithful and dying men who had followed us during the war, though the distance of but 10 feet separated us. No intercourse was allowed. A list of the dead was refused, asI~ed for in the most respectful terms. The only accounts we have are from their fellow- sufferers in the hospitals. I have hesitated to add this list of atrocities to the casualties of war and record them against their perpetrators, but a sense of duty com- pels me to expose the shameful and horrid malignity of the traitors, who have added to the highest crime against their country the cowardly and cruel torture of savages upon their enemies. Exchanged at City Point, we were ordered on the steamboat State of Maine (lousy from stem to stern) by Colonel Ludlow, and fed, like dogs in a kennel, with bread and meat cut up and cast into two large boxes, until our arrival at Annapolis. Here ended oar imprisonment and res- toration to duty on the 8th day of May, 1863. The delay in making this report was occasioned by my being kept on duty two months after my exchange at Indianapolis, md. Since my arrival at Murfreesborough, I have been receiving reports from my subordinate officers, the last of which came to hand this day, all of which are transmitted herewith. All of which is respectfully submitted. JOHN COBURN, Colonel, Gem mctnding Third Brigade, First Division, Reserve Corps, Army of the Cumberi nd. Capt. B. H. POLw, Assistant Adjutant- General, First Division Page 94 94 KY., MID. AND E. TENN., N. ALA., AND SW. VA. [CHAP; ~ No.7. Peport of Lieut. Hamlet B. Adams, Acting Assistant Adjutant- General. HEADQUARTERS FIRST BRIGADE, THIRD DIVISION, Franklin, Tenn., kliareh 8, 1863. CAPTAIN: I have the honor to submit the following brief report of an expedition which left this place on the morning of the 4th instant, under the command of Col. John Coburn, composed of the Thirty-third Indiana Volunteers, Twenty-second Wisconsin, Nineteenth Michigan, Eighty-fifth Indiana, and One hundred and twenty-fourth Ohio Infantry, detachments of the Second Michigan, Ninth Pennsylvania, and Fonrth Kentucky Cavalry, numbering 600, under the command of Colonel Jor- dan, Ninth Pennsylvania, and the Eighteenth Ohio Battery: The column marched out of Franklin, Tenn., about 10 a. in., upon the Columbia pike, and when about 3 miles out the advance guard came upon the pickets of the enemy. A slight artillery engagement followed, and the enemy retired, with a loss of 5 killed, left on the ground. One man o~ the Nineteenth Michigan was slightly wounded. No other casualty attended the command, except the accidental disabling of the carriage of one of the guns, which was sent to camp for repair. At this time little or nothing could be learned of the location or strength of the enemy or of the number or caliber of the artillery. Colonel Coburn reported to General Gilbert at 2 p. m. what had oc- curred, and suggested the impropriety of encumbering the expedition with so large a trainin all, about 100 wagons. General Gilbert replied that if the train intended for a forage train was likely to prove an embar- rassment, to send it back. Then the train, except the baggage wagons, was started back, and the column moved forward some 2 miles, and a gain came in contact with the enemy. The information that had been re- ceived from various sources up to 5 oclock warranted Colonel Coburn in supposing that there was a force not far in advance, and, on account of the lateness of the hour, deemed it imprudent to bring on an engage- ment then; consequently went into camp. Nothing occurred during the night. Colonel Coburn in the evening made a full report to General Gilbert of the occurrences and observations of the day, and during the night received dispatches, but from what source or of what nature I have no knowledge. - In the morning (March 5), on the inquiry being made of Colonel Co- burn as to what he was about to do, he replied, I am going ahead; I have no option in the matter. At 8 a. m. the command resumed the march. Advanced about 3 miles, when it became necessary to throw out skirmishers. The column ad- vanced at least 1 mile farther, when a battery, or part of a battery, opened fire immediately in front. Colonel Coburn at once drew up the forces in line of battle, and brought the battery to bear at two points (elevations) on either side of the pike, three pieces on the right and two ~n the left. The enemy then opened another battery on our right and front. No force of the enemy could be seen up to this time. Colonel Coburn ordered the Eighty-fifth and Thirty-third Indiana, then sup- porting the section of artillery on the right, to charge upon the battei-y farthest to the right and take it. The two regiments immediately ad- vanced down the hill in the direction of the depot, and, when near the depot and a stone wall, received a volley from infantry statiomid behind the wall and around the depot. An overwhelming number of the enemy at once revealed themselves. The two regiments were then ordered t Page 95 CHAP. XXXVI ENGAGEMENT AT T1IOMP~ON S STATION, TENN. retire, which they did in good order, keeping up a well-directed fire, regaining aiid holding the ground from which they started, and check- ing the advance of the enemy. At or about the time the two regiments were ordered to retire, still another battery opened on our left flank. At the time the order was given for the regiments to retire from the charge, I heard Colonel Cobnrn order Colonel Jordan to bring np two companies of cavalry, and send them to the right to snpport the retiring regiments. Colonel Jordan started off on foot, but did not re- turn, nor was the order obeyed. Soon after the battery opened on our left flank, the commanding officer of the Eighteenth Ohio Battery came np, very much excited, and said he was out of ammunition, and that he could not stand the fire of the batteries. That portion of the battery on the left of the pike had already, by the captains direction, moved down on to the pike without orders from Colonel Coburn or any other l)erson. Colonel Coburn directed me to ascertain from the officers in charge of each ammunition box of the entire battery how much ammu- nition there was remaining. . I did so, and reported to Colonel Coburn that there were 230 rounds of shell and 70 rounds of canister. I also gave orders to the officers not to move the battery or any portion without orders. I then went to the left, to ascertain about a flank movement that had been reported, and, on reaching the brow of the hill occu- pied by the Twenty-second Wisconsin and Nineteenth Michigan, saw the enemy advancing in line of battle. I at once reported the same to Colonel Cobnrn, but received no orders. Colonel Coburn was at this time at the head of the Thirty-third and Eighty-fifth Indiana, on the right, both regiments being hotly engaged. The section of artillery on the right up to this time had kept up a constant fire. After reporting the flank movement of the enemy on the left, I went to the top of the hill occupied by the Twenty-second Wisconsin and Nineteenth Michi- gan, and as 1 reached the left of the Twenty-second Wisconsin, that regiment opened fire npon the enemy, and held its position some mm- ntes, and nntil the Nineteenth Michigan went to its support. The two regiments held that point nearly twenty minutes. At the time of the first fire upon the Twenty-second Wisconsin, that portion of the battery on the pike, and which had retired from the left of the road, started off in quick-time up the pike. I instantly went and stopped them, and made every effort to induce the captain to bring his guns to bear upon theenemy, then charging throngh a ravine and up the hill toward the Nineteenth and Twenty-second. At this point one gun could command the roads and the ravine farther to the left. All my efforts were unavailing, however, and the battery started off in full retreat, the section on the right coming down at that moment, and, as I suppose, without orders. 1 very soon met Colonel Jordan, com- manding the cavalry, and asked him if something could not be done to assist the infantry. He replied, We are doing about all that can be done; while at that very instant everything was moving oft~ At the time the Twenty-second Wisconsin received the first charge, Lieutenant- Colonel Bloodgood, of that regiment, with about LO men from the left of the regiment, retired from t~he field and moved off, by the left flank, with the retreating party. I cannot believe that Lieutenant-Colonel Blood- good had orders from Colonel Coburn or any other person to move; at least, if he did, no member of his (Colonel Coburns) staff had aiy knowledge of it, and they were at that time on th~ gronud. If there were any orders from any one for Lieutenant-Colonel Bloodgood to move, they were not to retire, and there was nothing to I)revent him from going to any part of the field ftw fifteen minutes after he left, a Page 96 96 RY., MID. AND B. TENN., N. ALA., AND SW. YA. [ChAP. XXXV. the remainder of the regiment, under Colonel Utley, with the Nine- teenth Michigan, held the top of the hill that length of time. The cav- airy, at the time the Twenty-second Wisconsin was attacked, all retired from the left, at least half a mile from the scene of action. It became evident that a stand would not be made by the retreating force, and I attempted to return to the battle-ground, but found it impossible. Some thirty minutes had then elapsed since the first charhe upon the Twenty- second Wisconsin. The Nineteenth Michigan and Twenty-second Wis- consin by this time were being driven up the side hill toward the right and on to the ground occupied by the Thirty.third and Eighty-fifth In- diana, and the enemy had formed a line of battle between the hill and myself. I turned, and met an ammunition wagon, but ordered it back, as it would only have fallen into the hands of the enemy. One musket- ball had already passed through the top. The last view I had of the ground the four regiments occupied the top of the hill, on the right of the road, and, as far as I could discover, were surrounded by the enemy, and all fighting to their utmost. The batteries were directing a heavy fire upon them. They had no ammunition aside from the cartridge- boxes, and, doubtless, Colonel Coburn did not surrender until all the ammunition was consumed, and found it useless longer to defend him- self. Not more than half an hour elapsed from the time I last saw the field until the firing ceased. The only order Colonel Coburn gave in relation to the- One hundred and twenty.fourth Ohio Infantry was that it remain as a guard to the train. The surgeons were all constantly engaged in removing the wounded, until communication was cut off. Some of the ambnlances which came away last were fired upon. The train returned to Frank- lin in good order, preceded by the One hundred and twenty-fourth Ohio, and followed by the artillery and cavalry. Colonel Coburn gave his orders with coolness, and throughout the whole time displayed bravery and energy. Lieutenant-Colonel Hender- son and Major Miller, Thirty-third Indiana; Colonel Utley, Twenty. second Wisconsin; Colonel Gilbert and Major Shafter, Nineteenth Michi- gan; Colonel Baird ~nd Lieutenant-Colonel [A. B.] Crane, Eighty-fifth Indiana, all were most ready and willing to perform their duty, and evinced courage and ability. Colonel Gilbert and Major Miller both had their horses shot under them in the early part of the fight. The battery used nothing but shell and round shot, and apparently produced no serious effect upon the enemy. I should judge that the engagement commenced about 10 a. in. and closed at 2.30 p. m. Information, which was received the 5th, of the force that had been engaged -the 4th, tended to the belief that it was about 2,000 cavalry, with four pieces of artillery, under General Forrest. On the 5th, two negroes, who claimed to have deserted from General Van IDorns command, caine into camp as we, were starting out, and statedthattherewasaforceatSpringHillofatleast20,000.Iknow of no other information being communicated to Colonel Coburn of the strength and position of the enemy. The negroes were immediately sent to General Gilbert. On the morning of the 5th, Colonel Coburn hesit~ ted about starting, and appeared to be waiting orders, but finally said, Well, lieutenant, addressing myself, if we must go ahead, let us start; upon which I directed the regiments to move out. I did not see any reports that Colonel Coburn sent to General Gil bert, and but one dispatch from Gen- eral Gilbert to Colonel Coburn, and that was in reply to one of the dis- patches sent him during the 4th, in whLh hQ remarked something a Page 97 CHAP. XXXV.] ENGAGEMENT AT THOMPSONS STATION, TENN. 97 follows: I suppose you understand the object of the movement. If the forage train is likely to embarrass you, send it back, and go ahead. Colonel Coburn informed me that he asked General Gilbert how much ammunition he should take, and that General Gilbert told him that he would not take more than the cartridge-boxes contained; Colonel Co- burn, however, ordered the regiments to take 30 rounds besides. The men of the entire command lay on their arms all night and until 4 oclock in the morning, when each regiment formed iu line of battle, and were held in readiness for any emergency until they marched. A heavy picket guard of cavalry and infantry was kept out from the time we stopped until the column advanced. Herewith find a copy of the order on which Colonel Coburn marched.* Very respectfully, your obedient servant, H. B. ADAMS, Lieutenant and Actg. Asst. Adjt. Gen., First Brigade. Capt. B. H. POLK, Assistant Adjutant- General, Third Division. No. 8. Report of ]ieut. Edwin I. Bachrnan, Thirty-third Indiana injhntry, Acting As& istant Quartermaster. HDQRS. 1ST BRIG., 3n Div., ARMY OF KENTUCKY, Franklin, Tenn., ilfarch 9, 1863. CAPTAIN: I have the honor to submit the following report of an ex- pedition, nuder the command of Col. John Coburn, consisting of the Thirty-third and Eighty-fifth Indiana, the Nineteenth Michigan, Twenty- second Wisconsin, One hundred and twenty-fourth Ohio, and Eight- eenth Ohio Battery, and detachments of the Second Michigan and Ninth Pennsylvania Cavalry, under command of Colonel Jordan, num- bering in all some 2,300 men. The command was encumbered with a large train, numbering 101 wagons, 40 of which were loaded with our camp equipage and some ammunition. We got fairly started from Franklin, on the pike leading to Columbia, about 10 a. in., March 4. After traveling some 3 miles, our cavalry commenced skirmishing with the enemy, who opened on us with two pieces of artillery. Our battery quickly answered, and in an hour the enemy commenced to retreat. Only 1 of our men was wounded (slightly), the enemy leaving 4 men dead upon the field. At the commencement of the engagement I l)arked the wagon train in a field aside the road, so as to advance or expedite a retreat as quickly as possible. The first order I received concerning the train, I having charge of it, was, Move the train back, as a cavalry force threatens our left. I had scarcely got the train into the road before I was again ordered to turn the train and advance; then to turn back again, when I took the train in sight of Franklin. There II received orders to fill all the wagons I could with forage. Filled 39, and was also ordered to send the empty wagons back, which left me 40 wagons. Before I caught up with our forces, I passed one of our cannon, which was damaged in the engagement. _______ * See Special Orders~ No. 15,, p. 77. 7 a RYOL XXIII~ rT Page 98 98 KY., MID. AND E. TENN., N. ALA., AND SW. VA. [ChAP. XXXV. About sunset we encamped for the night, the enemy reported imme- diately ahead. We placed a very large picket force around our en- campment, and all the men of each regiment received orders to sleep on their arms, expecting an attack before daybreak the following morn- ing. - The battery reported that they might, perhaps, need more ammu- nition. Colonel Coburn ordered them to send immediately for more. My wagon-master, Enos Halbut, was also sent to Franklin, and Colonel Coburn sent a report of the skirmish with the enemy, and also that we were again near them. The regiments were ordered to be formed in line of battle at 4 a. m. In the morning we ascertained that the battery only received some 48 rounds of shell. My wagon.master arrived at 2 oclock. He informed Colonel Coburn that General Gilbert had not sent any answer, and, by calculation, he thought that the enemy could not be more than 600 or 700 strong that we skirmished with the day before. About that time, 6 a in., March 5, two negroes were brought to Colo- nel Coburn; said that they escaped from the enemy, and that the enemy were strongly re-enforced, and Van Dorn close by. Colonel Coburn then drew out his orders, looked at them closely, and then said, My orders are imperative, and I must go on or show cowardice. About this time Colonel Jordan came up. Colonel Coburn ordered Colonel Jordan to send the two negroes immediately to General Gilbert, that he might hear the statements made by the two negroes. Colonel Coburn then examined a map of the country ahead, together with Colo- nel Jordan, and, finding two roads that were running nearly parallel to the road we were on, the distances estimated at from 1 to 3 miles from our route, said he to Colonel Jordan, ~ I wish you to send a sufficient force of cavalry on each of these roads to apprise me of any danger of a flank or even rear movement of the enemy, and I will delay my forces a sufficient length of time for them to give said information. Between 8 and 9 oclock that morning we were again on the road, the regiments of the First Brigade ahead of the train and the One huudred and twenty-fourth Ohio in the rear. It soon became necessary to throw out skirmishers. The Second Michigan advanced as skirmishers, reach- ing nearly to both roads, and kept on advancing and firing, the enemy slowly retreating. At this time I went to the head of our forces, to consult Colonel Coburn concerning the train. He was then talking with Colonel Jordan (were within one-fourth of a mile of Thompsons Station), and had just said, On these two points I thought the enemy were going to make a stand. Here the enemy opened a masked bat- tery on ns. The cavalry were immediately ordered under cover of the hill to our right, and I was ordered to bring np three pieces of cannon and place them on an elevation on the left and the two remaining pieces on the right elevation. By the time the battery on the left opened on the enemy another battery opened on us. The regiments of the First Brigade were brought up in line of battle to support the two batteries. The Twenty-second Wisconsin, commanded by Colonel Utley, and the Nineteenth Michigan, commanded by Colonel Gilbert, were ordered a little up the base of the hill on the left to support that battery, and the Thirty-third Indiana, commanded by Lieutenant-Colo- nel Henderson, and the Eighty-fifth Indiana, commanded by Colonel Baird, to support the battery on the right, when they were ordered to lie down and keep concealed. The battery on our right then opened on the enemy, and a brisk cannonading ensued. I went back to the train and ordered my wagon-master to have the train turned, ther Page 99 CuAr. XXXV.] ENGAGEMENT AT THOMPSONS STATION, TENN. 99 being no ground to park the train in safety, and then went to the battle- field on the right. Colonel Coburn had just come from the top of the hill, and asked Colonel Baird if he could take the battery on the right. Says he, Ill try. Then Colonel Coburn says, I will send the Thirty- third Indiana with you, and if you take the battery on the right, take the other close by on the left also. The regiments were ordered to file around, one on the right of the hill and the other on the left, and to go to the station, and under cover of the houses before making the charge. Colonel Coburn then said to me, Now, let us watch them closely. When they arrived at the station, we beheld large numbers of the enemy revealing themselves from behind a stone wall in front of the enemy, and many more in the woods. Says he to me, Tell them to fall back to their old position; there are too many of them. I immediately executed the order, and as they were coming back the enemy advanced and came shouting. Colonel Coburn then drew them up in line of battle, and ordered them to fire on the enemy. Captain Aleshire, who coin- manded the three pieces on the left, then came over, and Colonel Coburn asked him how much ammunition he had left. He answered, Jam nearly out. Colonel Coburn said that was no answer, and directed Adjutant Adams to go and see and ascertain the exact amount. Adjutant Adams reported some 230 rounds of shell and 70 rounds of canister. I then went over to the left, and found the three pieces on the left down the hill and on the pike. I asked the captain who ordered him to leave his post. He replied, They have brought some heavy pieces to bear on my battery on the left, and said they would tear his battery to pieces. Adjutant Adams then came down and tried to get him to take a posi- tion, and I left them. I went over on the left and found the Twenty- second Wisconsin in line, facing to the left around the brow of the hill, and the Nineteenth Michigan some 60 paces down and nearly to the right. I was nearly up the hill when a tremendous fire of musketry from the enemy was poured into the Twenty-second Wisconsin, which returned the fire. Then quite a number broke ranks and fell back, but were immediately got back into line by the colonel on the right, I as- sisting in the center. About one-half of the Nineteenth Michigan could not fire on the enemy on account of the hill, and I suggested to Colonel Gilbert to bring the left of his regiment up to support the Twenty-second Wisconsin, which he immediately put into execution, and I left them fighting with great coolness and bravery. I went down to the battery and found Adjutant Adams, one of Colonel Coburns aides, still trying to get the captain to bring some of his pieces to bear on the enemy, and, in my jnd~ment, could have done great execution with canister. While I was there, 1 received orders from Colonel Coburn to start the train back, which I immediately pu~ into execution. In coming back, I saw the battery oii the right come down the hill, and all, except some 150 of the Twenty- second Wisconsin, with the lieutenant-colonel and major of that regi- ment, fall in the rear of the battery, and, I suppose, without orders from Colonel Coburn. The train moved off in good order, although I was fearful of a panic; but, with the aid of my wagon-master and the quartermasters of the different regiments, all went along in a fast walk and in good order, although there was some firing into the train on our left by the enemys cavalry. Onr cavalry, however, seemed to keep them at a distance. About that time we had proceeded nearly half a mile from the field, when I received an order, said to have come from Colonel Coburn, to move the train on quickly, and get the battery on a hill close to a bric Page 100 100 KY., MID. AND E. TENN., N. ALA., AND SW. VA. [CIL\P. XXXV. church. Ii saw the colonel of the One hundred and twenty-fourth, and he put his men on the double-quick nutil he arrived, at the church, when he took his men up the hill to support the battery. At that time there were some two companies of cavalry ahead, and I ordered them to sen(l forward and see whether any enemy was on either side or ahead, and i[ then ordered the train to move on slowl~~. We had nearly arrived at the church when the firing ceased. We thcii had a faint hope that our men would still fight their way out to the pike, then on our left, and still come up with the train, although they were nearly surrounded when the train moved offi I was on the battle-field until I was ordered to move the train back, and can say th t our troops fought bravely, and proved no easy prey to the enemy, who were five times more than our own numbers. In advance or retreat our cavalry did well, although I do not think that they did their duty in the time of battle, and that Colonel Coburn ought to have been notified in time when they came around and assailed our left, which groflnd our cavalry held at the commencement of the action. The train, battery, and ambulances were brought safe to town, all filled with wounded, numbering some 60. Our surgeons, I think, did their best toward caring for the wounded. Among the officers en~aged I cannot help commending somo for their coolness and bravery in the unequal contest, among whom were Colo- nels Coburn, Utley, Gilbert, and Baird, Lieutenant-Colonels liendersomi and Crane, M jors Miller and Shafter, Adjutant [Frank C.] Crawford, and the lieutenant commandir~g the battery on the right hill, and, in flict, nearly all the officers maintained their honor and fought nobly for our glorious cause. I remain, very respectfully, your obedient servant, EDWIN I. BACHMAK, Second Licut. 334 Jicgt. md. Vols., and Acting Quartermaster First Brigade, Third Division, Army of Kentucky. Capt. B. II. POLK, Assistant Adjutant- General, Third Division. No. 9. Report of Licut. Cot. James Mi. Henderson, Thirty-third Indiana infantry. , 1863. CAPTAIN: I have the honor to hand you the following rel)ort of the l)art taken by the Thirty-third Itegiment Indiana Volunteers on the march from Franklin, Teun., to and including the battle at Thompsons Station, on March 4 and 5 last: In pursuance of Special Orders, No , from brigade headquarters, (lated March, 1863, I left camp, near Franklin, Tenri., with the Thirty- third Pegiment Indiana Volumiteers, in company with the First Brigade, - Third Division, Army of Kentucky, of which it then formed a l)art, and moved south, toward Spring Hill. When about 4 miles out from camp, we suddenly came upon a force of rebel cavalry drawn up ready to re- ceive us. The Thirty-third was stationed on the right of the pike, with time left resting thereon, where it remained most of the day. Once we moved forward to attack the enemy, but he having hastily left the field, wI~ came back by your order to our oi-iginal i)ositiOn, md there remained until 5 p. in., when we moved forward, and went into camp on the ground previously occupied by the enemy. Heavy pickets wer Page 101 CHAP. XXXV.] ENGAGEMENT AT ThOMPSONS STATION, TENN. 101 thrown out on my front, and right, to prevent any surprise from that quarter. The night passed quietly away, and at 4 a. m. on the 5th I had my men nnder arms. At 7.30 oclock I was ordered to move my regiment forward 011 the pike toward Spring Hill. Skirmishing being heard in front about 9 oclock ,a close watch was kept up on our flanks, and at 10.30 I took post on a hill north of Thompsons Station, supporting the right of the Eighteenth Ohio Battery. Very little firing was going on in our im- mediate front, except artillery, till about 11.30 oclock. The enemy having stationed his sharpshooters in the buildings around the depot, and a line of skirmishers along the railroad, I sent three coin- panies, viz: Corn pany A, Captain [C.] Seaton; Company F, Lieutenant [J. T.] Fleming, and Company D, Lieutenant [J. C.] Maze, the whole in command of Capt2in Seaton, to dislodge them. They moved promptly forward, driving the enemy from his cover and back to the position oc- cupied by the main body of his force, though exposed to a murderous cross-fire from two batteries and the enemys in.fantm~ on his right. In this position matters rested for some half an hour, though a brisk fire was kept up by the enemys artillery. I then received your order to move the remaining seven companies of my regiment forward, join the three previously sent, and charge a battery giving us some annoyance on my right. ~f he command was no sooner given than, with a cheer, my men moved forward to the attack. Never on drill or parade have I seen them move with more precision. Reaching the railroad, we were wel- comed with a galling fire from two brigades of infantry stationed immediately in my front, completely masked by a stone fence. The imnequalness of numbers and great advantage of position caused me to shelter my men tinder the embankment of the railroad. Here we re- mained but a few moments, when your order to return and occupy our original position was received. To retrace our steps brought us in fine range of the enemys grape and canister, which he (lid not fail to use. Some confusion was thus caused, but the coolness and promptness of my officers gave new confidence to the macn, who were rallied in time to nmeet the enemy as he left his stronghold and charged upon ns, and drive him back in disorder. The position assigned me was held by my regiment until 4 p. in., re- pelling with great slaughter three successive charges of the enemy. Once a feint was made to flank us on our right, but Companies A and F, being sent to occupy a hill on that flank, drove them back. At 4 oclock it was reported to me that the mens cartridge-boxes were empty, and an immediate detail of three men from a company was made and sent back for a supply from the traimm. Only a few of them ever returned, they being captured and cut off from the regiment by the enemy on the left. Those who did return reported that the train was not to be found. Yonr order to file to the rear was then received. I ordered bayonets fixed, and formed my regiment in column by division, preparatory to charge the enemy, break through his line, and make good our escape. There was a question whether to sacrifice or save the lives of my muen whether it would justify me in making the attempt to cut our way through and mini the risk of losing my whole command, or surrender and save their lives. The latter course was at this moment taken ,and was, no doubt, the best that could have been domme. I cannot speak too highly of tIme conduct of both men and officers. Wherever I placed a man, there I invariably found him. Adjutant [C. H.] Pickering rendered good service in transmitting orders. Majo Page 102 102 KY., MID. AND TX TENN., N. ALA., AND SW. VA. [CHAP. XXXY. [L. T.] Miller was constantly at his post, as were all of the company officers, cheering and encouraging the men to do their best. Many personal acts of daring were done, but where all did their duty so well it would be injustice to particularize. I will, however, say that when the order to surrender was given to the men, that a large portion of them broke their arms, and so damaged their accouterments as to render them worthless. I am, colonel, very respectfully, your obedient servant, JAMES M. HENDERSON, Lieut. Gol., Gomdg. Thirty-third Regiment indiana Volunteers. Lient. II. B. ADAMS, Acting Assistant Adjutant- General. No. 10. Report of Gol. John P. Baird, Ihighty-ftfth Indiana Infantry. HDQRS. EIGHTY-FIFTH REGT. INDIANA VOL. INFANTRY, Franklin, Tenn., ]Ifay 7, 1863. COLONEL: I have the honor to submit the following report of the part taken by the Eighty-fifth Regiment Indiana Volunteer Infantry in the action at Thompsons Station on the 4th and 5th of March last: On the morning of the 4th of March, 1863, I was placed, by your order, in the rear of the wagon train with my regiment, a company of the Ninth Pennsylvania Cavalry, and a section of artillery, and took no part in the skirmish of that day further than to watch the train, a por- tion of which I loaded with forage and sent to Franklin. On the morning of the 5th, after the head of the column came in sight of Thompsons Station, the enemy having opened on us with a battery, my regiment was, at about 10 a. in., deployed into line of bat- tle on a range of hills to the west of the pike and to the left and rear, and in supporting distance of a section of the Eighteenth Ohio Battery, which was posted on a commanding hill, facing south. Up to the time my regiment got in position, but two or three shots had been fired by the enemys battery. But, soon after deploying my regiment, a brisk cannonading commenced, and my men were ordered to lie down under the crest of the hill. After some twenty minutes, the enemy showing no front, you ordered me to make a demonstration on his left, and, if not in force, to charge a battery which had our range. I accordingly moved out with my regiment, in column of companies, accompanied by the Thirty-third IndianaVolunteerlnfantry, Lieutenant-Colonel Hender- son commanding, and marched, under a galling fire from the enemys bat- teries, about 500 yards across an open plain, throwing down fences, until we reached the station-house. Here I discovered that the enemy was in heavy force, two brigades of dismounted cavalry, posted behind stone walls and in underbrush, directly between me and the battery, and was on the point of retreating when I received your order to fall back. So soon as we started back the enemy started after us, and the battery again opened on us. I lost 2 men killed and 4 wounded in crossing and recrossing the plain. Arriving at the crest of the hill, the two regiments formed, facing the approaching enemy, the Eighty-fifth to the right of the Thirty-third, the left of the Thirty-third resting near the section of the Eighteenth Ohio Battery before mentioned. After a short contest the enemy were driven back in front of these two regiments Page 103 CHAP. XXXV.] ENGAGEMENT AT THOMPSONS STATION, TENN. 103 A short time after this repulse, the enemy were seen moving to our left, toward the pike, as if to charge the battery from the east. You immediately ordered me to change front from south to east, and move forward to prevent an advance of the enemy from the pike, which I did immediately. Arriving at the point designated, I found the battery had left its position and was out of sight, and the Nineteenth Michigan forming on the ground I was ordered to occupy, with its right resting near where the battery had stood. I then noticed that the three pieces posted on. the left of the pike had gone. II then formed my line, with my right resting on the Nineteenth Michigan, at the school-house, and extending northward on the ridge, facing the pike and railroad, the Nineteenth and my regiment being at right angles with the Thirty-third Indiana. As soon as my regiment was formed, I rode to the extreme left, where I had a good view of the pike leading to Franklin and of the plain extending east, in rear of the range of hills on the left, where a section of the battery and two regiments had been posted originally by you, and could see nothing of the wagon train, our artillery, or cavalry. My attention was called, by Lieutenant-Colonel Crane, to a column of cavalry on the plain to the east and the skirt of woods terminating the plain, nearly a mile distant, which we found were the enemy moving, apparently, to get a position on our flank or rear. I sent you word of the movement. Shortly afterward Armstrongs (rebel) brigade charged us from the pike, and my regiment and the Nineteenth Michigan became hotly engaged at short range. The enemy having gained the hill to the left of the pike, from which our artillery had withdrawn, planted part of a battery there, and opened on us with grape and canister. A cross-fire from a battery to our right was also very annoying. The fighting at this point was very severe, the opposing forces at times not more than 10 to 20 yards apart. We rej~ulsed the enemy every time he charged, and held this hill for more than two hours from the time I moved from the school-house. Having entirely silenced the enemy in my then front, I was ordered to change front, the whole brigade facing north, and moved out by the left flank, about 300 yards from tWe pike, my regiment being again thrown on the extreme right. Here we engaged Forrests forces, which were directly between us and Franklin,. and held them nearly an hour, and until the ammunition of the brigade was exhausted, at which time (about 4 oclock) II received your order to surrender, which I did. My loss was 1 officer killed and 2 wounded; 12 men killed and 19 wounded died from exposure and cruel treatment at the hands of the enemy, in captivity, 30; and disabled from duty from same cause, 1 offi- cer and 5 men. Total killed and wounded, officers and men, 34; died and disabled, 36; total loss, 70. I took into the action 303 non-commissioned officers and men. My line officers all did their duty, and it would not be proper to make invidious distinctions; but I would suggest that no further action should be taken on the charges against Captain [F.] Brooks, Company B, and Captain [T.] Grimes, Company C, on account of their gallantry. I am greatly indebted to Lieut. Col. A. B. Crane, Maj. H. E. Craig, and Adjt. F. C. Crawford, for the gallant manner in which they sus- tained me on the battle-field. I am, colonel, very respectfully, your obedient servant, J. P. BAIRD, Golonet Eighty-fifth Indiana Volunteer Infantry. Cot JOHN CoBURN Page 104 104. KY., MID. AND E. TENN., N. ALA., AND SW. VA. [CHAP. XXXV. No. 11. Report of Gol. Henry C. Gilbert, Nineteenth Michigan Infantry. IIEADQIJARTERS NINETEENTh MICHIGAN INFANTRY, NashriUe, Teun., June 13, 1863. CoLoNEL: Circumstances beyond lily control have hitherto prevented my making a report to you of the part taken by this regiment in the affair at Thompsons Station, Tenm, on the 5th day of March last, and which resulted in the capture by the enemy of nearly our entire brigade. We left Franklin on the morning of March 4. I took out with me 488 enlisted men, all armed, and 12 hospital attendants. Some 4 or 5 miles out from Franklin we met a reconnoitering party of the enemy, supposed to be about 2,000 strong. These were driven back without difficulty after a sharp skirmish. My regiment was formed on the ex- treme left, in line of battle, and advanced in that order about half a mile. We, however, had no opportunity to participate to any great extent in the fight. Our loss was only 1 man slightly wounded. After the enemy retired, an intelligent yellow boy came into my regi- ment on horseback, and represented that he was a servant of one of Van ~ general officers, and that Van Dorn with his entire command had arrived at Spring Hill on the Tuesday previous; that his force numbered about 16,000, and that he had with him six brigadier-generals, or corn- manders of brigades. This negro man appeared honest and intelligent, and evinced a desire to give ns correct information. In the course of the afternoon two other negroes came in and gave similar information. The inhabitants alono- the road also understood that Van ~ force had all advanced to Spring Hill. We encamped that night about 5 miles out from Franklin, the left wing in column by division, just in the rear of the artillery. During the night all was quiet. The next morning, March 5, we moved forward with the rest of the brigade at 8 oclock. About 10 oclock we had advanced some 4 miles, when we met the enemy. Here 1 received your order to form in line of battle, and take position on the left, which was done. Colonel Utley, with his regiment (Twenty-second Wisconsin), was next on the right. Our artillery was on a commanding eminence, supported on the right by tile Eighty-fifth and Thirty-third Indiana, and on the left by the Nineteenth Michigan and Twenty-second Wisconsin. We remained in line of battle unengaged for about half an hour, when the enemy opened fire on us from a battery (two guns) posted on a hill to the left of and completely commanding our position. The first shell struck the ground within 3 feet of some men of Company E, covering them with dirt, but fortunately it failed to explode. As our position was a very exposed one, I moved my regiment a little to the right, and around the hill on which our battery had been posted, but which it abandoned immediately after the firing from the enemys battery on the left commenced. Colo- nel Utley executed a similar movement with his regiment. This brought the right and left wings of the brigade nearer together, and prevented our line being cut in two by the advancing columns of the enemy. A brisk fire was immediately opened on our left, but the enemy at this point was soon repulsed, and the firing ceased. Up to this time we had been posted on the left of the railroad and turnpike. We here received your order to cross over and form on the right, with a slight change of front, and just on the crest of a hill. This movement was executed without difficulty, and gave us an excellent position. Her Page 105 CHAP. XXXV.] EN~AGEMtNT AT TJIOMPSON~S STATION, TENN. 105 the enemy attacked us with great fury, and several times they charged up the hill and attempted to drive us from our position. At the same time their artillery was playing on us with grape and canister. The fighting at this point was continued for a long time, and until our am- munition was nearly exhausted for a while. The enemy at length ceased firing, when, in compliance with your order, the entire brigade was moved over still farther to the right, on the crest of another line of hills. After a brief engagement here, our ammunition gave out, and we could offer no farther resistance, being entirely unsupported by our artillery and cavalry. I beg leave to state, as a matter within my own personal knowledge, that our battery, the Eighteenth Ohio, Captain Aleshire, and the cav- alry, under the command of Colonel Jordan, Ninth Pennsylvania, ren- dered no assistance after the infantry were engaged. I also report that early in the day, before any firing commenced on either side, Captain Aleshire attempted to retreat with his battery. He met Colonel Baird, of the Eighty-fifth Indiana, and myself on the turnpike, as we were advancing. We halted him, and ascertained from him that he was going back with his battery without orders. We protested against it, telling him he would create a panic among our men; but he persisted, and would have done so had we permitted it; but just at this juncture he received your order to take position, and reluctantly turned about. I have no doubt had we been properly supported by the artillery an(l cavalry that our brigade could have made a successful retreat at any time during the engagement. As it was, we were entirely surrounded by a greatly superior force; our ammunition was exhausted, and we could not do otherwise than surrender. Capt. E. B. Bassett, of Company B, in my regiment, deserted his com- puny as soon as the fighting commenced, in a most disgraceful and cowardly manner, and ought to be dismissed the service. One other officer, a lieutenant, after we crossed over to the right of the railroad, also left without permission or orders to do so. With these exceptions, every one of my officers behaved with the utmost gallantry, and every man, without exception, did his whole duty. My loss was 20 killed and 83 wounded. The total number of deaths up to this time has been: Killed in battle and died from wounds re- ceived, 34; died from exposure and cruel treatment at the hands of the enemy, 31. Not less than 82 men are disabled, and have been, or will be, discharged the service, making my whole loss in consequence of the disaster not less than 147. Your obedient servant, H. C. GILBERT, Colonel, Commanding. Col. JohN COBURN, Commanding First Brigade, Third Division. No. 12. Report of Lieut. ~Jol. James Pick-ands, One hundred and twenty-fourth Ohio Infantry. HEADQUARTERS 124TH Onio VOLUNTEER INFANTRY, Triune, Tenn1 June 10, 1863. COLONEL: In accordance with your request, dated at Indianapolis, bid., May 24, 1863, I have the honor to submit the following report: By ordei of Col. 0. 11. Payne, commanding the brigade to which m Page 106 106 KY., MID. AND E. TENN., N. ALA., AND SW. VA. [CHAP. XXXV. regiment is attached, i[ reported to you with my regiment, about 400 strong, on the morning of the 4th of March. Was posted on the left of the Twenty-second Wisconsin Volunteers, and remained in that posi- tion nutil the advance was attacked, about 4 miles south of Franklin. I was then ordered to support the Eighteenth Ohio Battery, and held my men in rear of the battery during the continuance of the firing. Near this place we bivouacked for the night; but two companies were by your orders kept constantly nuder arms. On the morning of the 5th, I was ordered to bring up the rear, for the protection of the train. When the firing commenced., I caused the train to be halted, and sent a messenger in search of you for instructions. He returned, having been unsuccessful, and I continued to send in suc- cession a number of others, including my major and adjutant. None were, however, able to reach you. Near the close of the action, the train-master informed me that he had been ordered to turn the tr in and move rapidly to the rear. 4t the same time vedettes, which were posted on the hill to the left of the road, instructed me that a heavy force was moving around the hill to cut off our retreat. The cavalry was then retreating, and I immediately caused the train and my regiment to move rapidly to the rear; but I was overtaken by a member of your staff, with an order for me to halt at a favorable position for the posting of the battery, allow the train to pass on, and await th6 arrival of the battery. These instructions were obeyed, the halt being made at the brick church, where I remained until after the battery had taken posi- tion in front of my regiment, when Colonel Jordan, commanding the cavalry, ordered me to retreat. The train retreated in perfect order, without the loss of a single man or wagon. I have the honor to be, colonel, your obedient servant, JAMES PICKANDS. Lieut. Got., Comdg. One hun~3lred and twenty-fourth Ohio Vol. Infty. Col. JOHN COBUEN. No. 13. Report of Gol. William L. Utley, Twenty-second Wisconsin Infantry. HDQRS. TWENTY-SECOND 1IEGT. WISCONSIN VOL. INFTY., , 1863. COLONEL: In accordance with orders, I herewith furnish you a full statement of what transpired with the Twenty-second iRegiment of Wis- consin Volunteer Infantry, which I had th~ honor to command at the battle of Thompsons Station, Tenn., March 5, 1863. I shall make no mention of what transpired on the 4th, as the Twenty-second took no part in that affair, except to take a position in the line of battle. When we resumed our line of march on the morning of Ifle 5th, the cavalry was ordered out in front as skirmishers. The Twenty-second took the advance of the infantry. Skirmishing soon commenced after we took up our line of march, though nothing of importance occurred until we arrived within about three-quarters of a mile from Thompson~s Station. Here the booming of cannon and the howling of a shell that passed within a very few feet of our left (passing along the whole length of the regiment, buried itself in the ground without bursting) admonished us that there was work ahead. I then ordered the brigade to halt, file off to the left, and lie down (or those of the brigade that were in danger), to await your orders, you being at that time some distance in advance Page 107 CHAP. XXXV.] ENGAGEMtNT AT THOMPSONS STATION, TENN. 107 also to avoid another visitor from the rebel battery, which we had reason to believe would soon follow the first; but, luckily for us, in our position at that time, no shots were fired until we took our position in line of battle, about one-half mile in advance of where the brigade was then halted. The battery was soon ordered forward into position. A por- tion (three pieces) was placed upon a hill on the left of the pike. The Twenty-second Wisconsin was ordered forward to support that portioii of the battery on the left of the pike. The Nineteenth Michigan was also ordered to the left of the pike. The Twenty-second Wisconsin took a position in front and a little to the left of the battery, under cover of a small hill, covered with cedar bushes; the Nineteenth Michigan on the left of the Twenty-second Wisconsin. A squad of cavalry was posted to the left and in rear of the Twenty-second Wisconsin and Nineteenth Michigan. By the time we had fairly got into position, our battery opened upon the enemy. The contest was kept up for some time without any particular result on either side. We had been in qur position something like half an hour, when the roll of musketry and the infernal screeching of the rebels admonished us that our comrades of the Thirty-third and Eighty-fifth In- diana Infantry, which had been posted on the right of the pike (to support the section of battery upon that side), were desperately engaged with the enemy. About this time we discovered on a hill to our left what appeared to be rebels planting a battery. We were not left long in suspense, for they soon opened upon us; the first shell bursting directly over the heads of the Nineteenth Michigan; the next, a little short, sent its frag- ments hissing around our heads in every direction. The colonel of the Nineteenth Michigan, seeing his position too much exposed, without any chance of retaliating, fell back, and took a position directly in the rear of the Twenty-second Wisconsin. The cTivalry (heretofore mentioned) posted in the rear, broke and left the field on the very first discharge of the battery on our left. I saw nothing more of them. Our battery turned one of its guns upon the rebel battery on the hill to our left, and fired a few shots, and then broke from the hill and left; that was the last I saw of them during the engagement. I cannot say at this time whether the Nineteenth Michigan had moved to the right of the battery before it left or not; they took that position about that time. A short time after that, I saw on the pike, homeward bound, what I supposed to be that section of the battery that was posted on the right of the pike. That was the last I saw of the battery that day. About that time it was reported to me that the enemy was approach- ing my line in great numbers, just over the cedar bluff in front of us. I was aware at the time that the most favorable place for us to engage the enemy was from the top of the cedar hill in front, but I also saw that the battery on our left would be able to rake us from end to end. I therefore determined to fall back upon the hill in our rear, and take the position recently occupied by the battery. When I saw the battery leave, I supposed it was by your order, and that we were to have a regular Bull Run affair, and had been waiting to see the Thirty-third and Eighty-fifth Indiana break and follow the battery, but I soon saw that they were not going to break. I then ordered the lieutenant-colo- nel (Bloodgood), who was then on the extreme right, to lead the regi- ment by the right flank to the brow of the hill before mentioned. We had not long been in position when the enemy appeared on Cedar Hill. I gave Private Moley, of Company B, permission to open the fight, who very coolly delivered his fire. We received a terrific volley in return. The action became general. The position of the hill upon which the opposing forces were engaged did not exactly lie parallel; consequently Page 108 108 KY., MID. AND E. TENN., N. ALA., AND SW. VA. [CHAP. XXXV. as we were fighting faced by the rear rank, the left wing was much more exposed than the right. The fire upon the whole line was terrific, and although it was the first time the regiment was under fire, they stood the shock and behaved exceedingly well, never once breaking the line nutil the enemy in front were entirely silenced, and not then until ordered to do so by the lieutenant-colonel. The enemy outnumbered us four to one, I should think, from the appearance. J cannot tell cor- rectly how long we were engaged on the hill, but I think something like an hour. The casualties on the hill were not as great as might have been expected under the circumstances. We were exposed to an enfilading fire from the batteries. The lulls upon which we were en- gaged were not more than 70 yards apart. I kept the men down a~ much as possible. The hill upon which the enemy was posted was much the highest; consequently they overshot us as a general thing. But a~ it was, there were disasters enoughas will be seen by the list of killed and wonndedto carry mourning and sorrow to a great many houses in State. After our capture, tile enemy gave us credit of doin~ them our an immense amount of damage on the cedar hill. During the engage- ment I witnessed numerous acts of bravery and heroism that are worthy of all honor,~and which entitle those brave boys to the right of having their names inscribed on the roll of honor. While speaking of those w-ho behaved gallantly, it becomes my pain- ful duty to animadvert upon the conduct of some of my subordinate officers, who, upon the very first fire of the enemy, retreated to a safe position, and remained there during the entire engagement on the hill, iever once offering to assist in rallying the stragglers or seeing to the wounded. During the engagement the lieutenant-colonel, from his safe retreat, annoyed me by sending word to me to retreat. On one occasion my adjutant, who brought the word, and being told that I could not retreat, behaved badly after sending word to the lieutenant- colonel that I would not retreat- that our business war to hold the hill at all hazards; and after we had entirely silenced the enemy in front, and while in the act of complimenting the men for their good conduct, I cast my eye to the right wing, and saw several companies in full re- treat, headed by the lieutenant-colonel. I immediately gave the order to halt, which did not seem to be heard. As I had no one to send, I immediately started to head theni off, which for a time ma(le things very much worse. When the men saw me run, they all broke from the hill and ran after me, thus leaving the hill entirely defenseless. I overtook them at the railroad, near the pike, and commanded them to halt and form. The order was instantly obeyed. There was not the slightest appearance of panic. I gave the order to fix bayonets, intending to charge back and retake the hill. At this time I noticed so~im of the companies on the right, as we were then faced, were too much huddled. I stepped to the right to oblique them in two ranks, as I wished to show as much front as possible, owing to the superior numbers of the enemy. While thus engaged, I east my eye to the left, and saw a portion of my regiment again in full retreat, double-quick, with Lieutenant-Colonel Bloodgood at the head. I could not overtake him this time. My situation was humiliating in the extreme; it left inc too weak to retake the hill, or even hold the position I fhen occupied, behind the railroad, against the great mass of rebels that was pressing me on the ri~ht and left. There- fore, I was obliged to fall back on the hill, in the rear of Thirty-thum-d and Eighty-fifth Indiana. About the time my regiment was broken the last time, the Nineteenth Michigan moved up along time railroad to the front, and engaged the enemy, which were coming down from that direction in great numbers Page 109 ChAP. XXXV.] ENGAGEMENT AT THOMPSONS STATION, TENN. 109 It gives me pleasure to say in this connection that the officers and men of the Nineteenth Michigan behaved galkutly. I saw them repulse several charges, where the enemy outnumbered them three to one. All this time the Eighty-fifth and Thirty-third Indiana had been engagd in an almost hand-to-hand fight with a greatly superior force. Although I was not able to accomplish much with the force I had left, we held in check the large force that had flanked our brigade. After making several stands, we were compelled to fall back. The men that remained with me behaved gloriously, never failing to form and face the enemy when called upon, but when at last it became apparent to all that we could not hold out much longer, and the firing had ceased iii our front, we fell back over the hills. We got separated in a patch of canebrake amid brush; some few escaped; the remainder of us, finding ourselves surrounded, surrendered. It may not be proper for me to speak of matters which, in my opinion, contributed largely toward the disaster of the day; nevertheless, I will say that the enemy outnumbered us six to one. It is very evident that with a very little help we might have escaped, for the enemy acknowl- edged to us, after our capture, that at one timne they were very much (liscouraged. I am fully convinced, from all I saw on the field and what I afterward learned from the enemy, that if it had not been for the un- timely retreat of the battery and cavalry we might have been drawmm oft with safety and small loss. I have been pained on reading articles from correspondents and editors, and on hearing remarks from officers pro- fessing to know all about war, to the effect that we might and ought to - have retreated. Now, I pretend to say that there iziever was a time, after the battery and cavalry had deserted us, that we could have broken from the hills without being cut to pieces, neither could those that escaped have done so if it had not been for the obstinate resistance of Ihose they deserted at the very commencement of the fight. The idea of fmomn 1,200 to 1,500 infantry, in aim open country, retreating before nearly 17,000 mounted infantry nd cavalry, with two batteries of ar- tillery, is simply ridiculous. After our surrender we were taken to the rebel headquarters. In going there we were taken directly across the ground occupied by the Thirty-third and Eighty-fifth Indiana during the struggle. It was a sad and revolting sight to witness the barbarity of the inhuman demnons stripping our noble dead. On coining out in view of the rebel force, we were astonished at the vast numbers against which they had been con - tending so long. They would not believe the fact until they had satis fined themselves by actual count, and they were quite angry when told we had no beneral officer with us; they thought the thing impossible. We afterward learned that we were engaged against Van Dorn, with his whole force added to that of Forrest, amounting to nearly 17,000, com- mnanded by six generals, and two batteries of artillery. After our bat- cry left, w~ could not have had to exceed 1,600 men in the engagement. No wonder they were astonished at the stubborn resistance of the little handful of men they had captured, and they got nearly all that were engaged in the fight. Soon after we were drawn np in line, preparatory to starting for the land of Dixie, a long train of wagons passed, loaded with the dead and wounded rebels, showing the handiwork of the little band that had been struggling so long against such fearful odds. They acknowledge the loss of 49 commissioned officers, of which were 2 cob- nels, 1 lieutenant-colonel, and 1 adjutant-general. In conclusion, I will add a few remarks respecting our treatment while we were prisoners: Until we reached Tullahoma our treatment was about what we migh Page 110 110 KY., MID. AND E. TENN., N. ALA., AND SW. VA. [CHAP. XXXV. expect as prisoners of war in a heathen land, destitute of everything but treason. The march from Columbia to Tullahoma was one that will never be forgotten by those who performed it; marching all day in the rain and mud, fording creeks and rivers, standing out all night on the shortest kind of poor rations, if they got any, constituted our daily routine until we got through to Tullahoma. The prisoners were placed under charge of Lieutenant-Colonel Gordon, of Mississippi. It gives me pleasure to say of Colonel Gordon that be treated the officers with extreme kindness, and did everything possible for the men. I believe he did everything in his power to furnish the men with suitable rations. They were not to be had, and he could not help it. The prisoners had got to be put throngh; there was no post. ponement on account of the weather. But when we reached Tullahoma the scene changed. After march. mb all day in the rain, without rations, we reached there just at dark, and after having forded a river a little while before, the men were placed out upon a clay hill, where the mud was ankle deep. The weather was extremely cold, with nothing to make a fire except green logs. A small ration of raw bacon and a little raw meal was all that was dealt out to them, which was of no use, as they had nothing in which to cook it. The officers were thrown into an old shell of a building, and the same rations dealt out for them. In the morning, after spending the night in this dreadful situation, we were called out, officers and privates, and an order from Bragg read to us, commanding the officers to strip us of our overcoats and what few blankets we had. We were then hurried to the cars, and placed in some of the nastiest old box-cars I ever saw, without a sign of a seat; all this under the immediate direction of Bragg. Here, to the regret of us all, we had to part with Colonel Gordon and his escort. II will not attempt to describe our sufferings at Knoxville. The Twenty-second Wisconsin was left over night, for want of transportation. There I was gain compelled to stand out all night without an overcoat or blanket, and the weather was bitter cold. There was no [need] of either myself or men having to stand out of doors, only to please the malice of a sneaking set of traitors. I received the same kind of treat- ment at Bristol, Fa. But as it has been wisely ordered that all things must have an end, so our trip through this worse than the land of Idu- rnea was ended, after spendin~ the last forty-eight hours within 15 miles of Richmond, in a severe snow-storm, in open cars, without rations, overcoats, or blankets. Some of the men perished on the way, and a great number soon after they got into prison. It is not my intention to give an account of our trials and sufferings while in the celebrated Libby. I should not speak of it at all, only from the fact of its being so very different from the treatment the rebel pris- oners receive in the North. We were huddled together in a very small l)lace, with not half enough rations, and that of the very foulest kind. We could not have lived, only for the little stuff we were permitted to buy at Confederate prices. The rebel officers as a general thing were insolent and overbearing; very few, if any, exceptions to that rule. But here once more, after eight weeks close confinement, time came to our relief and I am once more among human beings. My impression is, from all that I could see and learn from intercourse with the people, and from actual observation, that they were, at the time we were there, the worst whipped set of people ou the face of Gods earth. There was nothing left of them but their ~mb~t, ~~tlioug Page 111 CHAP. XXXV.] ENGAGEMENT AT THOMPSONS STATION, TENN. 111 they had a strong army at that time. I saw that it must soon fade away for want of materials to keep it up. I saw that the common people were sick of the rebellion, and would manifest it openly as soon as they dared to do so. In short, I saw that the marks of Gods avenging hand were upon all their land, and the finger-marks of Uncle Sam were on all their throats. I, after all, look upon the afflictions I had to pass through as a gain, when I compare them with the benefit I have received by a knowledge of the situation of the Souththe character of its inhabit- ants. I have learned what they say is true, respecting their being a different people. The difference is very marked. The Southern people are enraged, but very few of them can tell what ft is about. There is nothing so hard to deal with as enraged ignorance; you cannot [deal] with it. I think we have all come back impressed with the idea that there is a very great difference, and all in favor of the North. God bless the North. WM. L. UTLEY, Colonel, Gomdy. Twenty-second Regiment Wisconsin l7oluntcers. Col. JOHN COBuR~, Commanding First Brigade, Third Dirisio~. iNo. 14. Report of Lieut. Col. Edward Bloodgood, Twcntw second lVi8consim Ia fantry. HDQRS. TWENTY-SECOND REGT. WISCONSIN VOL. INFTY., Gamp at Brentwood, Tenn., llfarch 8, 1863. Sin: I have the honor to make the following report: On Monday, the 4th instant, the First Brigade, Third Division, Army of Kentucky, comprising the Thirty-third Indiana, Twenty-second Wis- consin, Nineteenth lichigan, and Eighty-filth Indiana Regiments, to- gether with the One hundred and twenty-fourth Ohio Infantry Regiment, the Eighteenth Ohio Battery, and portions of the Ninth Pennsylvania and Second Michigan Cavalry Regiments, all under the command of Colonel Coburn, of the Thirty-third Indiana Regiment, left Franjilin on the Columbia pike. in the direction of Spriub Hill. After advancing about 4 miles, we encountered a small force of the enemy, which was re- l)ulsed by our battery. We then advanced about a mile and encamped for the night. We resume(l our advance in the morning. The enemy appeared in small force, but falling back. When within a mile of Thompsons Sta- tion, our dismounted cav Iry engaged the ~ skirmishers and drove them over the hills. Thompsons Station is situated about the center, north and south, of a valley from one-half to three-fourths of a mile wide and of a semi- circular form, and on the west side of the Columbia pike. On the north side of this valley is a range of hils, through a depression in which passes the pike aud the railroad. As the head of the column arrived at the foot of these hills, a shell from a rebel battery passing through the gap fell in the midst of the cavahy, but did not explode. The cavalry imme- diately fell back on both sides of the road; the infantry deployed from the pike upon the hills; the Thirty-third and Eighty-fifth Indiana Reg Page 112 112 KY., MID. AND IX TENN., ~. ALA., AND SW. VA. [OHM. XXXV. inents to the right, and the Twenty-second Wisconsin and Nineteenth Michigan to the left. Three guns of our battery took position upon a l)rominent point to the left, and two upon a commanding position to the right. The rebel guns were stationed at three different points in the edge of the timber on the south side of the valley, viz, on their right, center, and left. As soon as our guns were in position, they opened upon the (nerny, who responded from all his positions. After the artillery had been engaged for some time, the Thirty-third and Eighty-fifth Indiana Regi- ments, on our right, were ordered to advance into the valley, and to charge the battery upon the enemys left. They advanced with a shout, and charged boldly across the valley and past the railroad depot, when they came within range of a long line of the enemys infantry that were hid behind a stone fence. These rose and poured volley after volley into them. Immediately the whole line of the enemys force emerged from the woods, forming a complete line of over a mile in length, and in front of the two regiments of ours which had charged upon the battery, they advanced in column. The Eighty-fifth and Thirty-third were soon compelled to retreat across the valley, and retired in good order, closely pursued, to their first position on the brow of the hill on the north side of the valley, where the two guns had first taken position. As the rebels came up the hill, these guns opened upon them with grape and canister, and the two Indiana regiments received them with a terrific fire. These noble regiments maintained their position to the last. The position of the Twenty-second Wisconsin and Nineteenth Mich- igan was upon a ridge to the left of and lower than the one upon which the Indiana regiments were stationed, and it was not until the rebel line advanced and gained this eminence that we first came under fire of the infantry. Previous to that, however, the enemy had moved a battery to the left, bringing us in range, and had thrown quite a number of shot and shell among us. Almost at the same moment the enemy opened upon us from the front and right flank; notwithstanding, we maintained our position. A few minutes before this, our battery had moved from the hill into the pike, being very nearly out of ammunition. Colonel Coburn, find- ing himself severely pressed, sent for the Nineteenth Michigan Itegi- meut to assist him. The Twenty-second Wisconsin Regiment was left alone, with the enemy pressing in front and right flank, and on our left a regiment of infantry, with one piece of artillery and a small body of cavalry, was pressing forward around the hill to take possession of the pike in our rear. Our regiment then fell back across the i~ike to the railroad. Here we received orders from one of Colonel Coburns aides to move down the pike and check the enemy, if possible, from closing on our rear. The order was given, but before we could reach the point indicated, a portion of the regiment, including the colonel and adjutant, were cut off. The portion that escaped formed line and opened fire upon the enemy, but our force being so small, we were compelled to retire with the cavalry and artillery. The enemy followed us about 2 miles. We arrived at Franklin at 6 p. in. The One hundred and twenty-fourth Ohio Infantry Regiment was back on the pike with the teams, and did not come into action. All of which is respectfully submitted. E. BLOODGOOD, Lieut. Gel., Gomdg. Twenty-second Regt. IYtSCOnSVn Volunteers. Major-General GRANGER Page 113 CHAP. XXXV.] ENGAGEMENT AT THOMPSONS STATION, TENN. 113 No. 15. Report of Capt. Charles C. Aleshire, Eighteenth Ohio Battery. IIDQRS. EIGHTEENTH BATTERY, OHIO YOL. ARTILLERY, Franklin, Tenn., March 8, 1863. SIR: in obedience to instructions from you, I have the honor to make the following report of the part my command took in the action of the 4th an(l 5th instant: On the morning of the 4th, Colonel Coburns brigade, consisting of the Thirty-third and Eighty-fifth Indiana, the Twenty-second Wisconsin, an(l the Nineteenth Michigan Itegiments of Infantry, and my battery, together with the Ninth Pennsylvania and parts of the Second Michigan and Fourth Kentucky Cavalry, under the command of Col. Thomas J. Jordan, of the Ninth Pennsylvania Cavalry, proceeded on the turnpike leading toward Spring Hill and Columbia. My battery was divided, one section being in the rear of the wagon train, commanded by Lieu- tenant [W. 11.] Morgan. When about 3 miles from Franklin, the enemys cavalry was dis- covered in hue of l)attle on the right of the pike, about half a mile dis- tant. Colonel Coburn immediately ordered me to take position, with the four guns in advance, on the high ground on the left of the pike, which I did. He then ordered me to open upon them~ I opened upon their line, and, after a few rounds, they moved off to the left of the pike, where a battery of four guns began to play upon my battery, but 1 could not discover its position until I rode down next to the pike. I then asked Colonel Coburns permission to move two of my guns down next to the pike, as I thought it the better position to play upon their battery. He told me to do so, which I did, and with a few rounds from these guns disabled one of their pieces, and their battery retired. Lieutenant Morgan then came up with his section, and Colonel Coburn ordered me to put it into position on an elevation on the right of the pike, which 1 did, and ordered him to commence firing upon the enemys. cavalry as it retired. Colonel Coburn then ordered me to advance, with my four guns, on the left of the pike. I advanced these guns about 600 yards, and came into position, and also shelled the retiring enemy with them. From the direction which a part of the enemys cavalry took, Colo- nel Coburn thought it possible we might be flanked on the left, and ordered me to move Lieutenant Morgans section so as to protect our left flank. While moving these guns, the axle-tree of one of the guns broke down, and I sent Sergeant Iloseburgh to Franklin, with orders to repair it im- mediately and join me with it again, if possible. Colonel Coburn then ordered me to move all of my battery, so as to protect our left, which I had done, and occasionally fired a shell into the enemy as they appeared in squads in the woods. We then advanced about a mile and encamped for the night. I reported to Colonel Coburn on the evening of the first day that I had about 120 rounds of ammunition, inclusive, to the piece. I reported the same to him on the morning of the 5th also. Early on the morning of the 5th, we advanced toward Spring Hill, the position which my battery occupied in the column being different from that of the preceding day. Lieutenant Morgan was in the ad- vance, with the cavalry, with one piece, while I was preceded by one 8 R RYOL XXIII, PT Page 114 114 KY., MID. AND E. TENN., N. ALA., AND SW. VA. [CHAP. XXXV. regiment of infantry, with the other four guns of my battery. After advancing about 1 mile, skirmishing with the enemys cavalry com- menced. Our skirmishers drove them about 3 miles, to the gap this side of Thompsons Station, where we were opened upon by one of the enerny~s batteries, so placed upon the right in our advance as to command the pike. I judged this battery to be composed of 18.pounder guns. Colonel Coburn ordered me into position on the hill to the left of the pike, with three guns of my battery. I put three guns into position on this hill, under the command of Lieutenant Morgan and Sergeant [A. S.] Bierce, and commenced to play upon the enemys battery, when these guns were opened upon by a second battery to the right. Colonel Coburn then ordered me to put my other two guns, under the com- mand of Lieutenant [J.] McCafferty, on another hill on the right of the pike. I got these guns into position as soon as possible, and commenced to engage the enemys battery to our right. In about fifteen minutes after these guns had opened, the enemy opened upon us a third battery of four heavy guns to our left, so as to cross-fire my two batteries, or, rather, my whole battery. The three guns on the left, under the com- mand of Lieutenant Morgan and Sergeant Bierce, were supported by two regiments, I think the Eighty-fifth Indiana and Nineteenth Michi. gan Regiments, and the two guns on the right, under the command of Lieutenant MeCafferty, were supported by two regiiiients, I think the Thirty-third Indiana and Twenty-second Wisconsin Regiments, and also cavalry. Under this fire of their artillery I had engaged them about an hour, when I reported to Colonel Coburn that my ammunition would soon be expended, to which he replied, Hold your position as long as it lasts, and fire slowly, and try and make every shell count. Shortly after this, I heard him order the Thirty-third Indiana Regiment to charge the battery to our right, and in a few moments after the Thirty-third had crossed the fence to our right, I saw the battery which they went to charge retire, and noticed, behind a stone fence next to the hill which they occupied, their infantry, or cavalry dismounted, concealed. When the Thirty-third arrived within about 60 yards of this stone fence, those troops which were concealed behind it fired into them, and, greatly outnumbering them, returned the charge and repulsed them, driving them back to my right, where the Twenty-second Wisconsin wa~ in line. I then discovered that my two guns, under the command of Lieuten- ant McCafferty, were being charged by two regiments of the enemy coming from behind the church and railroad depot in my front, and I ordered Lieutenant McCafferty to open upon them with canister. Colonel Jordan then came to me and ordered me to withdraw my guns from the leftthat they were being charged by infantry and cavalry which I did immediately, and moved them into the pike, and then rode back to the guns on the hill on the right, commanded by Lieutenant McCafferty. Colonel Jordan then ordered me to withdraw these guns also, and fall back to the hill where we fought the first day, and cover the re- treat, and he would send his cavalry to support me, he fearing that we would be flanked by cavalry. When I rode back to the guns on the right, commanded by Lieutenant McCafferty, Colonel Coburn brought a regiment of infantry on my left to support me. They fired but one volley, azid fell back in disorder. Colonel Coburn then went to my right again, and I saw him no more. As the two regiments that charged thi Page 115 CHAP. XXXV.] ENGAGEMENT AT ThOMPSONS STATION, TENN. 115 battery came close, I fired double-shotted canister into their ranks. I (lid not withdraw these guns until the infantry had all left, and do not think that the charge of the enemy was more than 60 yards from me when I ordered Lieutenant MeCafferty to retire. The charge of the enemy on the left almost surrounded bun as he came down the hill into the pike. After all my battery had arrived safely in the pike, in obedience to orders from Colonel Jordan, I was retreating, when some one came to me and told me that Brigadier-General Gilbert was on a hill (pointing it out to me), and desired to see me. I halted my battery and reported to him, and he ordered me on to Franklin, and afterward over the river. During the first day we met ~vith no loss. The second day our loss was 2 men missing. We had 1 horse killed and 3 wounded, and 1 ser- geants horse and equipments missing. During both days the officers and men of my command behaved gal- lantly. The officers dismounted, and were at their guns during the whole time of action. The conduct of the cavalry, under the command of Colonel Jordan, during the whole time, and particularly the retreat, was unexception- able. Had it not been for their repeated efforts to drive back the enemy, neither my battery nor the wagon train could possibly have been saved. All of the above, general, I most respectfully submit. I am, sir, most respectfully, your obedient servant, CHARLES C. ALESHIRE, Captain, Comdg. Eighteenth Battery, Ohio Yoluntcer Artillery. Brig. Gen. A. BAIRD, Commanding Third Division, Army of Kentucky. [IndorBement.] HDQRS. THIRD BRIG., FIRST Div., RESERVE CORPS, Miurfreesborough, Teun., August 13, 1863. Respectfully forwarded. The statement that the artillery held the ground till after the infantry retired, is unfounded in fact. On the right, the infantry held the very spot covered by the battery two hours after it left the field. JOHN COBURN, Colonel, (ommanding Brigade. No. 16. Report of General Joseph E. Johnston, C. S. Army. CHATTANOOGA, lJfarch 6, 1863. GENERAL: Major-General Van Dorn was attacked by the enemy at Thompsons Station yesterday, between Columbia and Franklin. He repulsed them handsomely, taking 2,000 prisoners. J. E. JOHNSTON, General. General S. COOPER Page 116 116 KY., MID. AND E. TENN., N. ALA., AND SW. VA. [CHAP. XXXV. No. 17. Reports of Ma.j. Gen. Earl Van Dorn, 0. ~. Army, commanding Confed erate forces, with congratulatory orders of General Bragg. HEADQUARTERS FIRST CAVALRY CORPS, A~pring Hill, Tenn., April 3, 1863. COLONEL: I have 1;he honor to submit the following report of the action in which my command was recently engaged with the enemy iicar Thompsons Station, on the Alabama and Tennessee Railroad, the ~ticcesstnl result of which was announced by me to the general com- manding immediately, arter the affair: On March 4 last, while engaged in making a forced reconnaissance toward Franklin with one division of my command (Brig. Gen. William 11. Jacksons), I encountered a large body of the enemy with a long bag- gage train, and after forcing them to deploy, by a show of force and a 1k~w shots from Captain [Houston] Kings Second Missouri Battery, I withdrew my troops to a position this side of Thompsons Station, and there awaited the approach of the enemy. During the night my scouts reported the enemy to ben brigade of infantry, two regiments of cavalry, and a battery of artillery, and I determined to give them battle. On the morning of the 5th, our pickets were driven in, and my com- mand was drawn np (dismounted) in the position previously selected; the two brigades composing General Jacksons division on a range of hills crossing the Franklin pike; General [F. C.] Armstrong on the right; Colonel [J. W.] Whitfield on the left, and General [N. B.] Forrests bri- gade on the saline line of battle, stretching out into the open fields. On the extreme right, Captain Kings battery was posted so as to command the valley, which spread out in front of the position for half a mile. About 10 oclock the enemy made his appearance on the crest of the hills lying over against us, and made immediate dispositions for attack. He drew up his line in front of our center and left, and with his maui force advanced, through a well-directed fire from Kings battery, on our extreme left. Colonel Whitfields Texas brigade, stationed at this point under cover of a stone wall, was immediately strengthened by the Third Arkansas Regiment (Colonel [S. 0.] Earle commanding), from General Armstrongs brigade, and the affair was commenced. The enemy ad- vanced to within about 200 yards of our lines, when our troops, without waiting for an attack, charged them in fine style, put them to flight, and pursued them across the valley to their original position on the opposite hill. Behind this hill the Federal forces were rallied, and upon Colonel Whitfields arrival at the summit he was charged and driven back down the hill, his men having no bayonets with which to meet the enemy. Here his men made a stand behind the depot and buildings of Thomp- sons Station, and, with the assistance of two pieces of Kings battery, the enemy were again compelled to retire beyond the hill. In themean time, while these events were occurring on the left, Gen- eral Forrest, on the extreme right, had pushed forward Captain [S. L.] Freemans battery (of his brigade) to a hill in advance of his original position, and completely commanding the enemys left. The enemy~s battery, which had been stationed on the turnpike, was withdrawn from the cross-fire of this amid Kings battery, and did not return to the field. And now General Forrest was ordered to take the enemy in the rear. General Jackson was ordered to advance General Armstrongs brigade upon their left flank, and we closed in upon them. The Federal cavalry, with one regiment of infantry, after offering some resistance to Genera Page 117 CITAP. XXXV.] ENGAGEMENT AT THOMPSONS STATION, TENN. 117 Forrest, taking their battery aild baggage train with them, precipitately left the field. General Armstrong came up upon a line with Colonel Whitfield. Two pieces of Kings battery were placed upon the hill from which the enemy had been driven before. Forrest and Armstrong, and General Jackson with his entire division, charged in the most gallant manner upon the enemy, who were strongly posted on the hill from which they had formerly repulsed the Texas brigade. After a fierce struggle for the crest of the hill, our troops were again driven down it, and with considerable loss. Here the enemy~s successful advance was checked by Kings battery, which, with grape and canister, drove them back with great slaughter over the hill. In this charge fell the lamented Col. S. G. Earle, while gallantly lead- ing on his men, and who is universally regretted as one of the bravest and best officers of our service. In this charge also fell the loved and gallant [W. T.] Watson, assistant adjutant-general to General Arm- strong, in the very front of the battle. At the same time was killed Rev. Mr. [B.T.] Crouch, chaplain in the army, acting aide-de-camp to General Jackson. In him the country lost a brave soldier and a good man. Capt. L. E. Hill and Private Robert W. Fennie, of Company A, both of [E. J.] Sanders battalion, were killed while behaving, in the words of their commander, with the most distinguished bravery. Once more and for the last time our brave troops, under command of Generals Jackson and Armstrong and Colonel Whitfield, rushed up the now blood-stained eminence which had been so long and obstinately contested, and at this time the enemy retired before them. Kings bat- tery was advanced to the top, and opened fire upon their retreating line. General Forrest with two regiments had now gained the enemys rear and charged them, when, after firing a few volleys, they threw down their arms and surrendered. I should also state in this connection that General Martin, with one of his brigades (General [G. B.] Cosbys), had just arrived on the field and taken position on the enemys right flank, preparing for a charge and cutting off their only way of escape, when they surrendered. In the final charge by General Forrest (deciding the fate of the day), Lieu- tenant-Colonel [E. B.] Trezevant, of [N. N.] Coxs Tennessee regiment; Capt. Montgomery Little, of General Forrests escort, and Captaia [A. A.] Dysart, of the Third Tennessee Regiment, were mortally wounded xvhile gallantly leading their respective commands. This severely contested affair resulted in the capture of about 1,300 men and officers, with their arms and equipments, two stand of colors, and a loss to the enemy of about 500 killed and wounded. Our own loss was 349 killed, wounded, and missing. I thank Generals Forrest, Martin, Jackson, Armstrong, and Cosby, and Colonel Whitfield, and the officers and men of their commands, for the skill and valor with which they performed their several parts in the action. I take pleasure in indorsing the honorable mention made by their commanders of Maj. E. J. Sanders, commanding battalion; Lieut. Mike Guerin, Company K; Color-bearer John A. Miller, and Private J. M. I)ay, Company H, all of Sixth Texas Regiment. Captain [D. R.] Gur- ley, adjutant to Texas brigade, is also mentioned for distinguished con- duct, and to the men and officers of Kings battery I return my thanks for particular courage displayed under my own observation. To the officers of my staffMaj. M. M. Kimmel and Capt. W. C. Schaumburg, assistant adjutants-general; Maj. Edward Dillon, in- spector-general; Capt. ID. C. Jenkins, assistant inspector-general; Capt Page 118 118 KY., MID. AND B. WNN., N. ALA., AND SW. VA. (ChAP. XXXV. II. L. Boone, chief quartermaster; Maj. R. W. Jileywortli, chief commis- sary; Capt. L. C. Leftwich, chief of ordnance, and Lent. Clement Sul- livane, aide-de-campJ am indebted for their usual gallantry in battle, as well as for great efficiency in carrying orders, rallying troops, and in observing and reporting movements on the field. My aide-de-camp (Lient. Clemeiit Sullivane) had two horses shot under himone while rallying troops, another while carrying an order. I have the honor to inclose herewith a list of the killed, wounded, and missing,* and reports of subordinate officers. Yery respectfully, colonel, I am, your obedient servant, EARL VAN DORN, Major- General. Col. GEORGE WILLIAM BRENT, Assistant Adjutant- General. HEADQUARTERS FIRST CAVALRY CORPS, Spring Hill, April 13, 1863. COLONEL: My report of the action at Thompsons Station, on March 5 last, was forwarded to you this morning. I neglected to mention Lient. Col. L. L. Lomax, inspector-general on my staff, with the rest of my staff. Will you be kind enough to insert it with the others ~ I ann, very respectfully, colonel, your obedient servant, EARL VAN BORN, Major- General. Col. GEORGE WILLIAM BRENT, Assistant Adjutant- General. GENERAL ORDERS, HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF TENNESSEE, No. ~8. Tullahoma, ]JIarch 31, 1863. The general commanding announces with pride and gratification to the troops of his command two brilliant and successful affairs, recently achieved by the forces of the cavalry of Major-General Van Born. On the 5th instant, Major-General ~~an Born made a gallant charge upon a large force of the enemy at Thompsons Station. He utterly routed them, killing and wounding a large number, capturing 1,221 prisoners, including 73 commissioned officers and many arms. On the 25th instant, Brigadier-G~neral Forrest, with the troops of his command, daringly assailed the enemy at Brentwood, who could not withstand the vigor and energy of the attack, and surrendered. The results of this successful expedition were the capture of 750 prisoners and 35 commissioned officers, with all the arms, accouterments, and ammunition, and 16 wagons and teams. The troops here captured constituted the remainder of the brigade so successfully attacked by Major-General Van Born on the 5th instant. The skillful manner in which these generals achieved their success exhibits clearly the judgment, discipline, and good conduct of the brave troops of their commands. Such signal examples of duty the general commanding takes pleasure in commending. They are worthy of imi- tation by all commanders, and deserve the applause and gratitude of their comrades in arms and their country. By command of General Bragg: [GEORGE WM. BRENT.] *Seop. 119 Page 119 CHAP. xxxv.] ENGAGEMENT AT ThOMPSONS STATION, TENN. No. 18. Return of Ga8uctlties in the Confederate forces. [Compiled from nominal list.] Killed. Command. 0 0 a Wounded. 0 ~ o r~ Forrests brigade: Biffies regiment a Coxs regimentS Edmondsons regiment 3d [4th Tennesseec. - - McCanns battalion Body-gunrd d Total MARTINs (FIRST) DIVISION. Cosbys brigade: 1st Mississippi 28th Mississippi Total. JACKSON~S (SECOND) DIVISION. Armstrongs brigade: 3d Arkansase 4th Mississippif Sanders battaliong Jenkins (Alabama) squadronh - -. Total Whitfields brigade 3d Texasi 6th Texasj 9th Texaslc Whitfields legion 1 Total. Grand total 1 5 1 2 1 3 1 15 8 9 18 3 21 10 9 23 1 2 1 8 5 53 2 69 1 1 2 3 3 3 3 4 24 34 9 2 35 46 1 6 14 21 2 2 10 14 4 20 8 83 115 1 6 1 24 2 34 2 4 30 36 1 2 4 15 1 23 2 9 5 54 .1 6 77 4 19 14 123 170 9 47 27 262 1 357 11 a Lient. J. R. Johnson killed. b Lieutenant-Colonel [E. B.] Trezevant mortally wounded. c Capt. A. A. Dysart mortally wounded, and Lieuts. Tilman A. Boyd and [John B.] Poston wounded. d Capt. Montgomery Little mortally wounded. e Col. S. G. Earle, Capt. S. .Jester, and Lieut. E. D. Ward killed, and Capts. William II. Bhsekwell and [J. F.] Earle and Lieutenants [D. F.] Hines and H. C. CleaVer wounded. f Capt. John Gaddis and Lient. A. J. Hamilton wounded. g Capt. L. E. Hill killed. h Lieuts. W. J. Monerief and D. C. Whitley wounded. i Lient. iR. S. Tunnell killed. j Capt. R. A. Rawlins and Lieuts. James MeWilson, P. 5. Taylor, and R. C. While wounded. lcLieut. S. L. Garrett killed, and Lients. W. H. Boyle, J. C. hlensley, W. P. Hicks, and S. MeAnear wounded. 1 Capts. J. XV. Bayzer and Lieut. Cornelius H. Roberts killed. Capts. James A. Broocks and B. H. Norsworthy, and Lieuts. Adam~Adams, Francis P. halley, and J. L. Nance wounded. 119 Missing. 0 0 r~ cC 15 I Page 120 120 KY., MID. AND E. TLNN., N. ALA., AND SW. VA. rCTTAP. X~dCV. iNo. 19. Report of Brig. Gem Nathan B. Forrest, C. S. Army, commanding Cav alry Briqade. BRIGADE HEADQUARTERS, Near Spring hill, March ,[1863.] GENERAL: On the morning of the 5th instant, I was ordered to place my brigade in line of battle on the right of General JacKsons division, which I did, dismounting and placing Colonel [.1. II.] Edmondsou on the left of my line and Colonel [J. W.] Starnes on the right, parallel with the line of battle already formed by forces under General Jackson. I also caused the regiments of Colonels [J. B.] Biffie and [N. N.J Cox to form npon my extreme right near the Lewisburg pike, with ample pickets and vedettes upon that pike, to give timely notice of the approach of the enemy from that quarter. By the time this disposition of my force was made, the firing began from the enemys artillery, and, finding I had no position bearing upon the enemy with my artillery, ii ordered Captain [S. L.] Freeman forward with his battery tu a high hill, which placed it advantageously for operating on the enemys left flank. As it was full half a mile in advance of my first position, I ordered tip all the regi- ments of my brigade on foot to a line parallel with that hill and nearly at right angles with the l)ike. I found two regiments of infantry and a regiment of the Federal cavalry posted behind a stone fence to the left of their artillery. A few shells from my guns drove them from their position to the right of their battery and into the pike. I then ordered a fire opened npou their battery, and, after about 20 rounds, drove it from its position, retreating by the pike toward Franklin. At this time I was ordered to move forward, and, if possible, get in the rear of the enemy. This was done with as little delay as possible, but the two regiments of Biffie and Cox (the latter commanded by Lieutenant-Colonel [E. B.] T~ezevant.) were ordered up, but did not arrive as soon as desired, from the fact that they were 2 miles off, and dismounted, and a half a mile in advance of their horses. Pending this movement, Colonels Edmondson and Starnes were ordered to move forward, which they did in gallant style, driving the enemy from the cedar hill, and attacking them across the railroad in conjunction with Generals Armstrongs and Whitfields brigades. The engagement there lasted for about an hour, which gave time for Biffles and Coxs regiments to get up. They attacked vigor. ously, amid dispersed that portion of the enemys force moving on the pike, and formed in the field beyond Kings house, on the right of the pike. The main force of the enemy was posted on the hill in front of Thompsons Station and to the left of the pike, and had driven back several times the forces nuder Generals Armstrong and Whitfield and my two regiments under Colonels Starnes and Edmondson. I moved Biffles and Coxs regiments rapidly across the pike in the rear of the enemy; found they had fallen back from the first hill on the left of the pike, where they had successfully resisted the advance of our forces, and had taken a strong positioh, and were ready to receive us. As soon as the two regiments were formed, I ordered a charge, which was gallantly led by Colonel Biffie and Lieutenant-Colonel Trezevant, commanding Coxs regiment. The enemy opened a heavy fire upon us, the first volley mortally wounding Lieutenant-Cdlonel Trezevant and Capt. Montgomery Little, who commanded my escort. The men seeing those officers fill, raised a shout, and continued the charge to within 20 feet of the Federal line of battle. The enemy then threw down their arms and surrendered Page 121 cHAP. XXXV.] ENGAGEMENT AT ~J~HOMPSON~S STATION, TENN. 121 The two regiments, with my escort, numbered about 650 men; balance of effective strength holding horses. They captured from 1,200 to 1,500 Federal officers and privates, with their colors, & c. No one can regret more than I do the loss of Lieutenant-Colonel Treze- vant, commanding Coxs regiment of cavalry, Capt. M. Little, of m~ escort, and Captain [A. A.] Dysart, of the Third Tennessee Cavalry. They were gallant men, and fell with their faces to the foe. I cannot speak in too high terms of the conduct of my whole com- mand. The colonels commanding led their regiments in person, and it affords me much pleasure to say that officers and men performed their duty well. I discerned no straggling or shirking from duty on the field. Every order was promptly obeyed, and the bravery of the troops alike creditable to them and gratifying to their commanders. I herewith forward you a statement* of my loss, which shows 9 killed, 58 wounded, and 2 missing. I also beg leave to transmit you herewith the reports of regimental commanders of this action. All of which is very respectfully submitted. N. B. FORREST, Brigadier- General. No. 20. Report of Brig. (ien. William I. Martin, C. S. Army, commanding First Division, Cavalry Corps. IIEAOQUARTERS FIRST DIVISION, CAVALRY CORPS, Spring Hill, March 6, 1863. MAJOR: I would respectfully submit the following report of the oper- ations of the First Brigade, Brigadier-General Cosby commanding, the only portion of my command engaged in yesterdays engagement: Owing to the condition of the roads, it was impossible for the brigade to reach the field of action before 11.30 a. m. By order of the major- general, I moved the regiments of Colonels [T. G.] Woodward and [R. A.] Pinson to the extreme left of our lind. The command of the former was dismounted and moved with Pinsons regiment (mounted) to the attack of the enemy, then massed npon a commanding hill nearly opposite the right of Woodwards regiment. The enemy attempting to avoid the force of General Forrests attack. in rear, by a movement still farther to the left of my line, Pinsons regiment was moved in a direction to counteract this effort to escape. The enemy, npon this demonstra~tion, returned to the crest of the hill. I was in the act of charging the hill with the regiments above named and a squadron of [P. B.] Starkes regiment, under Captain [C. B.] Iluckner, when a courier informed me that the enemy had surrendered. The regiments of Starke and [J. G.] Ballentine were held in reserve by me, in obedience to Gen- eral [Earl] Van Dorns order, to support the Texas Brigade. The loss of the brigade is 3 wounded slightly, 2 in Starkes regiment and 1 in Pinsons. Arms captured, 81 rifles and 10 cartridge.boxes. Prisoners captured, 25. I take pleasure in calling attention to the activity and gallantry of General Cosby during the engagement, as well as the general good con- * The colors of the Nineteenth Michigan were captured by Capt. J. M. Reynolds, of Biffies regiment. Embodied in No. 18, p. 119 Page 122 122 KY., MID. AND IX TENN., N. ALA., AND SW. VA. [CIL& P. XXXV. duct of the officers and men of the brigade. I am under obligations to all the members of my staff for the prompt and fearless manner in which they bore my orders while under fire. I am, very respectfully, your obedient servant, WILL. T. MARTIN, Brigadier- General, Commanding First Division. Maj. M. M. KIMMEL, Assistant Adjutant- General. No. 21. Report of Brig. Gen. W. II. Jackson, C. S. Army, commanding Second Division, Cavalry Corps. HEADQUARTERS SECOND DIVISION, CAVALRY Coups, Near Columbia, Ienn., ]Jlarch 10 1863. MAJOR: I have the honor to submit the following as my report of the operations of the Second Division of Cavalry in the engagement of March 5, near Spring Hill, Tenn.: Pursuant to instructions receivedfrom the major-general commanding, my division, composed of the brigades commanded by Brig. Gen F. C. Armstrong and Col. J. W. Whitfield, respectively, occupied the center of our line of battleFirst Brigade (General Armstrong) posted on the right of the Franklin turnpike; Second Brigade (Colonel Whitfield) on the left. (in the approach of the enemy at 10 a. m. on the 5th instant, my command was placed in position, dismounted. Receiving orders from the major-general, I advanced the Second Brigade, and took position behind a stone fence, 400 yards in front of the first line, and there awaited the advance of the enemy. Captain [II.] Kings battery, at- tached to my division, had already opened fire, and the enemys guns were replying when the enemy commenced advancing his whole force against my left (Second Brigade), which was soon re-enforced by the Third Arkansas Regiment, of the First Brigade. The enemy advanced to within a few hundred yards of my position when the command opened fire, and, upon receiving orders to charge them, did so in gallant style, the enemy retiring in confusion behind a hill in front of our position. The Second Brigade charged to the top of this hill; the enemy, rising, gave them a murderous fire and forced them back. The Second Brigade, assisted by the Third Arkansas Regiment, of the First Brigade, charged this hill twice and was twice repulsed, and upon the third attempt, as- sisted by the First Brigade, succeeded in carrying it. At the time of the second advance of the Second Brigade, t1z~e Pirst Brigade (General Armstrong) was mounted and advanced to a position upon the right of the Federal stronghold, where it was dismounted, and, upon receiving orders, gallantly charged, turning the enemys left flank, and assisted materially in forcing him back from his strong position to another hill, where he surrendered. At the same time of the advance of the First Brigade, I ordered Kings battery to move up the Franklin turnpike to a point near the enemys position. The order was promptly obeyed, and upon reaching the designated spot opened fire upon the enemy with great effect. Many thanks are due Brigadier-General Armstrong and Colonel Whit- field for the cheerful manner and alacrity shown by them in executing all orders given them, and for the superior manner in which they handle Page 123 CHAP. XXXV.] ENGAGEMENtI AT TIIOMPSOWS STATION, T~ENN. 123 their brigades. Also much praise is due the officers and men of their respective commands for the heroic conrage they exhibited during this sanguinary conflict. I desire to call special attention to the officers and men of Kings bat- tery, both for the cool daring shown by them and the admirable manner in which their guns were served. And while I attempt to do justice to the chivalrous officers and men of my division, I turn with sorrow to mention the unreturned brave. The noble Col. S. G. Earle, of the Third Arkansas, who was beloved by all who knew him, while bravely leading on his men, fell during the second charge, and before the victorious shouts of our troops announced the triumph of our arms. Also the Rev. B. T. Crouch, of Mississippi, my acting aide-de-camp, was killed about the same time. He fell while bravely riding along the line, giving an order to the Second Brigade to charge. Many others highly deserving of mention fell, martyrs to the cause of the South, and attention is respectfully directed to the list of casualties and reports of brigade and regimental commanders to par- ticularize the heroes who fell on this field of strife; also to show the bravery and determination of the troops of my division engaged in this struggle. My thanks are cheerfully given to the members of my staff for the rapid and fearless manner in which they carried my orders to every part of the field. Respectfully submitted. W. II. JACKSON, Brigadier- General, Commanding Second Division, Cavalry Gops. Maj. M. M. KIMMEL, Assistant Adjutant- General. No. 22. Report of (Jol. J. iV. Whitfield, Te~ias Legion, commanding Second Bri gade. HEADQUARTERS TEXAS BRIGADE, ]Jlarch 7, 1863. CAPTAIN: I have the honor to submit the following report of the operations of the Texas Brigade during the action of the 5th instant: About 10 a. m. on the morning of the 5th, I drew up my command on foot in the position assigned me, my right resting east of the turnpike, and the left extending along the crest of the hills just in front of my en- - campment. This accomplished, I was directed to send a portion of my command to the rock fence near Thompsons Station, and immediately ordered the Ninth Texas (Lieutenant.Colonel [D. W.] Jones command- ing) to the position indicated. Whitfield Legion (Lieutenant-Colonel [John H.] Broocks commanding), and the Third Texas, under the coin- maud. of Major [A. B.] Stone, were very soon after moved forward to the same fence and posted, respectively, to the right and left of the position occupied by the Ninth Texas. Thus prepared, we waited calmly the approach of the enemy, already discovered to be advancing through a corn-field in the direction of Thompsons Station. In the mean time the Sixth Texas (Colonel [L. S.] Ross) having been ordered from its position on the right over to the support of the left, was placed in position along the railroad to the left and in advance o Page 124 124 KY., MID. AND E. TENN., N. ALA., AND SW. VA. [ChAP. XXXV. the position occupied by the rest of my command. Colonel [S. G.] Earles regiment (the Third Arkansas, of General Armstrongs brigade) also arriving about this time, was assigned the position immediately to the right of Colonel Ross. Thus re-enforced, I deemed it advisable to drive the enemy from the position he had now gained in the little village known as Thompsons Station, immediately in our front, and to this end moved my entire command to the charge. With a shout, men and offi- cers all rushed to the encounter, and in a moment the foe was driven from the houses in and behind which he had sought shelter, and com- pelled in the wildest confusion to seek refuge behind a hill half a mile to his rear; and here was the scene of the desperate struggle of the day. We charged the hill twice, and each time, after gaining its sum- mit, were forced back by superior numbers having greatly the advan- tage in position, but in neither instance did my brave men retire until pressed back by the enemys bayonets, and then only because of not having weapons of the same kind with which to meet them The third effort, however, was successful, and we took possession of the hill, the enemy being driven to another still beyond, and the same occupied by him at the time of his surrender. Many of my bravest officers and men we-re lost, as shown by the re- ports of regimental commanders, herewith transmitted. Colonel Earle, of the Third Arkansas, one of the bravest and best offi- cers it has ever been my good fortune to command on the battle-field, was killed in front of his command on the hill where occurred the fiercest fighting of the day. He was shot through the head during the second charge made by my command. It is difficult to distinguish conspicuous gallantry when all were so brave. Officers and men all nobly did their duty, and not mine alone, but the countrys gratitude is due them for their efficiency and valor. I cannot close this report without tendering my sincere thanks to Capt. D. It. Gurley, my assistant adjutant-general, for his distinguished bravery and the valuable aid rendered me on the (lay of the battle, and I especially recommend him to the favorable consideration of the commanding general. The rest of my staff also have mine, and are de- serving of the thanks of the country for the promptness and courage displayed by them in bearing my orders, regardless of personal danger. Very respectfully, & c., J. W. WHITFIELD, Golonel, Commanding Texas Brigade. Capt. GEORGE MOORMAN, Assistant Adjutant- General, Second Divison, Cavalry Corps. No. 23. Report of Lient. Col. P. W. Jones, Ninth Texas Cavalry. CAMP Two MILES FROM SPRING HILL, TENN., On Franklin Road, March 7, 1863. COLONEL: About 8 oclock on the morning of the 5th instant, in obe- dience to orders, I formed my regiment in line of battle, and ordered the men to dismount, leaving the horses in charge of the unarmed men. I moved up and formed on the left of our brigade, which was forming on foot near the top of the hill in front of our encampment. As I was mov- in g up, I was called upon to send two companies to the front as ski Page 125 CHAP. XXXV.] ENGAGEMENT AT THOMPSONS STATION, TENN. 125 mi~hers. Companies A and II, commanded by Capt. Thomas G. Berry and Lieut. S. A. Griffith, respectively, were ordered out and posted some 250 yards in front of the regiment. About 9 oclock I received orders to move my regiment and take posi- tion behind a stone fence running north and south some 200 yards from the railroad. ]i moved up directly behind a church which stood near the fence, and ordered the men to file off one at a time and take their l)ositions, causing them to stoop down when they left the church to avoid being seen by the enemys skirmishers, who were then visible in front. I threw out skirmishers in front, and let them remain there until two Federal regiments came down and drove them in. In the mean time one of our guns, which had been planted near my left, opened fire upon the enemy, which caused several shot and shell to be thrown by them near my line, but without doing any damage. The Federals formed a line of battle behind the depot and other houses, and remained there a short time, when they attempted to cross the railroad. When they were close enough to be within range of our guns, I ordered my men to fire npon them. They fell back in disorder, and again formed behind the houses. I soon after received orders when the regiment on my left charged to charge with them. When they commenced the charge I ordered my regiment forward and joined them. Captain Berry and Lien tenant Griffith, seeing the regiment advancing, moved forward andjoined it. With other regiments of the brigade, I crossed the rail. road, advanced through a field, and approached the top of the hill, where we found the enemy strongly re-enforced, and were forced to fall back. We fell back as far as the railroad, reformed the regiment, and advanced up the hill again. Finding the Federals posted as before, we were again forced to retire to the railroad, where we reformed and ad- vanced up the hill again in tolerably good order. We halted in rear of one of our batteries, and remained there until the announcement of the surrender of the enemy. Respectfully submitted. D. W. JONES, Lieutenant- Colonel, Commanding Ninth Texas Cavalry. Col. JOHN A~. WIJITFIELD, Commanding Brigade. MARCH 4, 1863.Skirmish at Unionville, Tenn. Report of Col. William F. Tucker, Forty-first lliliississippi Infantry, com manding Chalmers Brigade. HEADQUARTERS CHALMERS BRIGADE, On Triune Pike, ]ifarch 5, 1863. MAJOR: A few minutes after 3 p. m. on yesterday I received a note from Colonel [A. A.] Russell, commanding cavalry outpost (which I for- warded to you at once), informing me that the enemy were advancing in force on this and other roads, and asking that I would send forward a Rinrce of infantry and artillery to his support, and had barely time after- ward to issue orders preparatory to a forxvard movement with my whole command, when a large number of Russells cavalry dashed into my camp, closely pursued by the enemys cavalry, who followed them to our picket lines with a force of about 50 men. So close was the pursuit that when they reached our lines the two parties were mingled together. One ma Page 126 126 KY., MID. AND E. TENN., N. ALA., AND SW. VA. [CHAP. XXXV. came within range of my reserve pickets, who fired upon him, wounding his horse, but he managed to escape. The enemy then retreated. I immediately formed the brigade, and moving it forward to a place which I had selected to occupy in case of attack, formed them in line of battle, and rode forward to reconnoiter. Meeting Colonel Russell with a por- tion of his command, he went forward with them, and I followed with my brigade to a point 1 mile beyond Unionville. As our cavalry ad. vance passed through the town, it was fired upon by the rear guard of the enemy, who were leaving it; bat although I pressed forward at a double-quick for some distance, I was unable to come within sight of them. I sent forward our cavalry, with orders to attempt to force them to halt by firing upon them, but failing in this, and night having come on, I halted, and remained in position until Colonel Russell reported that he had re-established his former line of pickets, when I returned to camp. The enemy burned the academy at Unionville, which was occupied by Colonel Russell as his headquarters, and the tents and camp equipage of his command, and carried off with them a number of his wagons and a small quantity of provisions. 1 regret to say that in the dash made by the enemy to our lines, 5 men who were on duty with my outer pickets allowed themselves to be captured. As the enemy were mingled with our cavalry, numbers of whom had already passed, the pickets probably mistook them for our own men, and incautiously allowed themselves to be surrounded and cap- tured. The others who were on duty at the time at that post escaped. The reserve pickets had already been drawn up in line in readiness for action, but, owing to the nature of the ground, were unable to see what was going on at the advance post. Imay be transcending the line of my duty, but as it is a matter of considerable interest to the forces picketing on this road, I would re- spectfully call your attention to the fact that a large portion (almost half) of Colonel Russells command are without arms, and that in case of an attack they are only an incumbrance and calculated to demoralize the others. I am, major, & c., your obedient servant, W. F. TUCKER, Commanding Brigade. Maj. D. E. HUGER, Assistant Adjutant-General. P. S.While I write, cannonading is heard in the direction of Frank- lin; supposed to be there. MARCH 414, 1863.Expedition from Murfreesborough toward Columbia, Tenn.~ including skirmishes (4th) at Rover and Unionville, (5th) at Chapel Hill, (9th) at Thompsons Station, and (10thi ith) at Rutherford Creek. REPOI~TS. No. l.Maj. Gen. William S. Rosecrans, U. S. Army, commanding Department of the Cumherland. No. 2.Brig. Gen. James B. Steedman, U. S. Army, commanding Third Division, Fourteenth Army Corps. No. 3.Brig. Gen. Philip H. Sheridan, U, S - Army, co~4manding Third Division, Twentieth Army Corps Page 127 CHAP. XXXV.] EXPEDITION FROM MUREREESBOROUGH, ETC. No. 4.--Col. Robert H. G. Minty, Fourth Michigan Cavalry, commanding Cavalry Brigade. No. 5.Capt. William M. Flanagan, Third Ohio Cavalry. No. 6.Maj. Peter Mathews, Fourth Ohio Cavalry. No. 7.Itinerary of the Cavalry, Dcpartment of the Cunibcrland, Maj. Gen. David S. Stanley, U. S. Army, commanding, March 4-525. No. 1. Report of Maj. Gem. William S. Rosecrans, U. S. Army, commanding Department of the Cumberiand. MuIirnEEsnOnOucn, TENN .7 March 16, 186311 p. m. I have the pleasure to report the gallant conduct oi our cavalry, under the brave Colonel Minty. They drove the rebel cavalry wherever they met them, captured one of their camps, 17 wagons, 42 mules, and 64 prisoners. They used the saber where the carbine would delay. W. S. ROSECRANS, Maj. Gen. H. W. IIALLECK, ill ajor- General. General-in- Chief No. 2. Report of Brig. Gem. James B. Steedman, U. S. Army, eo~nmanding Third Division, Fourteenth Army Corps. TRIUNE, March 6, 1863. GENERAL: My command is at this point, occupying the junction of the Nolensville pike and Franklin roads, with my outpost 1~ miles to- ward Franklin. General Sheridans command is in front of me at the junction of the ~blensville and Shelbyville pikes. No enemy in force in that direction. I made a successful reconnaissance to the rebel camp, 2 miles beyond Chapel Hill, routing and driving Roddeys cavalry (two regiments) all across Duck River. We wounded 7 of the enemy, cap tured 60, with their horses and equipments, and returned to this point at 6 oclock this morning, without loss or injury. Bad news from Franklin; our loss heavy. JAMES B. STEEDMAN, Brigadier. General. Brig. Gen. JAMES A. GARFIELD, Chief of Staff. No. 3. R6ports of Brig. Gen. Philip II. Sheridan, U. S. Army, commanding Third Division, Twentieth Army Corps. Two AND ONE-HALF MILES FROM EAGLEVILLE, March 4, 1863. GENERAL: Colonel Minty surprised the enemy at Rover and Union. ville this afternoon, capturing two of their camps, taking 45 prisoners Page 128 128 KY., MID. AND E. TENN., N. ALA., AND SW. VA. [CHAP. XXXV. 12 wagons, and the camp and garrison equipage; also a large number of guns. He succeeded in carrying off all that was valuable, and burned the balance. The Seventh Pennsylvania Cavalry charged with the saber splen- didly; they had no casualties. I advanced my division to within 3 miles of Rover while this was being done, then turned on an obscure road parallel to the Eagleville and Shelbyville pike, and a short dis. tance from it, directing him to encamp at Eagleville to-night. Should they follow him I will swing in on their rear. I also left one brigade at Versailles, t threaten Rover and watch the Middleton road. I heard some artillery firing in the direction of Triune to-day. I think Chapel Hill the point where the enemy have their strongest cavalry force. Minty captured 43 infantry pickets. The prisoners captured and wounded have all saber wounds. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, P. II. SHERiDAN, Brigadier- General, Commanding. Major-General McCooi~, C~o2ndg. Twentieth Army Corps, Dept. of the Cumberland. CAMP Two AND ONE-HALF MILES FROM EAGLEVILLE, March 4, 1863. GENERAL: I have the honor to inclose a note just received from Colonel Minty, which makes his success still greater than that heretofore reported to you. I am in camp about t~- miles from him. He was not aware when he wrote the note that I was so near at hand. I will join him at Eagleville to-morrow morning at 4 oclock. I have not learned anything of General Steedman. If the artillery firing which I heard to-day was his, I may probably do some injury to the force which is resisting him. I have ordered the brigade, which I left at Versailles to join me at Eagleville to-morrow morning at day- break. Your obedient servant, P. II. SHERIDAN, Brigadier- General, Commanding. Major-General MuCoox, Commanding Twentieth Army Corps. HDQRS. THIRD DIVISION, TWENTIETh ARMY CORPS, Camp at Bagleville, March 5, 1863. COLONEL: I am in receipt of a dispatch from the general command- ing, dated this evening. General Steedman drove the enemy from Chapel Hill to-day. I am sorry he did not open communication with me before he went on, as I could have thrown a brigade and the cavalry to Gidionville, and in- tercepted the force he was driving, said to be 2,500 men (cavalry). I have directed General Steedman to take position at Triune at 6 oclock to-morrow morning, and will myself take position at the junction of the Chapel Hill pike and this pike (about 4 miles south of Triune). I can thus operate in the direction of Franklin, or in this direction, and be entirely secure if any infantry advance was made on me. This is a strong place, bu~ there is no particular reason that it should be held Page 129 CHAP. XXXV.] EXPEDITION FROM MURPREESBOROUGH, ETC. 129 I cannot make anything by a second dash on Rover at present, but can threaten the enemy in their attack on Franklin, which it is said they intend to make. From all I can learn, no troops have left Shelbyville for Tullahoma. Colonel Long was sent out to-day, as soon as I found from the scouts what had become of Steedman. Long was too late to intercept the enemy. The enemy have again occupied Rover, in strong force, infantry, it is said. Perhaps it is safest to send communications to me by Franklin road, via Triune. Very respectfully, ~. II. SHERIDAN, Brigadier- General, Commanding. Lieut. Col. C. GODDARD Assistant Adjutant- dencral, Department of the Cumberland. No. 4. Reports of Gol. Robert H. G. Minty, Pourth Michigan Cavalry, command ing Cavalry Brigade. EAGLEVILLE, TENN., March 4, 1863. GENERAL: I met the enemy, about 400 strong, at Rover, and tried to cut off their retreat to Unionville; but finding that they were falling back, I ordered the Seventh Pennsylvania to charge, and supported them with the Fourth Michigan and Fourth [U. S.] Cavalry. We drove them at a gallop through Unionville. Part of the Seventh Pennsyl- vania penetrated to the infantry pickets, 6 miles from Shelbyville, cap- turing 4 infantrymen. At Unionville I found another camp with about 400 men. These were driven in the same manner. I have captured 52 prisoners, with horses, arms, & c., 17 wagons, 1 ambulance, 42 mules, & c. Five of the wagons I had to leave; the other 12 I have here, loadcd with tents, provisions, & c. I sent an orderly to you from Unionville, but I fear he has been captured. Riley [0?], Starnes, and Roddey are reported to be within a short march of here, on the Chapel Hill road. I fully expected to find you here. Respectfully, your obedient servant, ROBT. H. G. MINTY, Colonel, Commanding 61ctvalry. General P. H. SHERIDAN. HEADQUARTERS FIRST CAVALRY BRIGADE, Camp near Murfreesborough, March 14, 1863. SIR: On the morning of the 4th instant, I reported to General Sheri- dan, on the Salem pike, with 863 men, being parts of the First, Second, and Third Cavalry Brigades, two companies of the Fourth Regular Cav- alry, and Lieutenant Newells section of artillery. The general ordered me to drive the enemy out of Rover. A mile and a half from that place I met their pickets, and drove them in sharply. At Rover I found about 400 men, who appeared determined to make a OR RVOL XxIII,rT Page 130 130 KY., MID. AND E. TENN., N. ALA., AND SW. VA. [CHAP. XXXV. stand. I detached th& Fourth Michigan Cavalry, with orders to gain the [Shelbyville] pike, between them and Unionville. The enemy, per- ceiving my design, commenced a retreat. I followed closely with the Seventh Pennsylvania and Fourth U. S. Cavalry, and, finding that the Fourth Michigan had failed in cutting them off, I gave the order to draw sabers and charge. At Unionville I found a regular camp, and about 600 rebel cavalry, whom we drove before us at a gallop to within 5 miles of Shelbyville, where we ran into the infantry pickets, S of whom were captured. The Seventh Pennsylvania had the good fortune to be in the advance, and were the only men enga~ed, with the exception of a few of the Fourth Michigan. We captured 51 prisoners (13 of whom were severely wounded, having received saber cuts about their heads), 17 wagons, 42 mules, 31 Sibley tents, 2 wagon-loads of bacon, meal, & c. Our only casualty was 1 man of the Seventh Pennsylvania slightly wounded in the foot. I fell back to Eagleville, taking the captured property with me, and was there joined by General Sheridan next morning. March 5, heavy firing was heard south of Franklin all day. I sent Colonel Long, with the Third Ohio and Seventh Pennsylvania, toward Chapel Hill, to open communication with General Steedman, and smaller scouts iu various directions, to gain information of the whereabouts of the enemy. March 6, moved to within a few miles of Triune. March 7, marched toward Unionville for the purpose of feeling the enemy. When 4 miles beyond Eagleville, I received orders from Gen. eral Sheridan to return to Triune forthwith. On my arrival there, the general ordered me to proceed to Franklin, without unnecessary delay. I camped within 9 miles of Franklin same night. March 8, marched to Franklin and reported to Maj. Gen. Gordon Granger. March 9, under orders from General Granger, marched at daybreak on Carter Creek pike, to make a circuit through the country and form a junction with General Green Clay Smith, at Thompsons Station, he having marched for that place the previous night. Six miles out I met the enemys pickets, which were rapidly driven by the Fourth Cavalry. A mile and a half from Thompsons Station I found a force of about 600 rebel cavalry (Armstrongs brigade) in position. My column was at this time very much scattered by a rapid march over a bad dirt road. After some delay in forming my men, I advanced toward the enemy, who declined fight by retreating rapidly. They were closely pressed by the Fourth Cavalry, to whose support I sent a part of the Seventh Pennsylvania. At Thompsons Station the rebels (Twenty-eighth Mis- sissippi or Third [Fourth] Mississippi Cavalry) were re-enforced by Starnes regiment (Third [Fourth] Tennessee Cavalry); but, after a short and sharp skirmish, the whole brigade (Armstrongs) was driven from the field by two companies of the Fourth Cavalry and about 50 men of the Seventh Pennsylvania, with a loss of 5 killed and 13 taken prisoners; but I regret to say that 3 gallant fellows of the Fourth Cay. airy were killed and 1 wounded. I sent a courier to General Smith, who was about 3 miles from Thomp. sons Station toward Franklin, and awaited his arrival. Camped at Spring Hill shortly before dark. March 10, about 9 a. in., advanced toward Columbia. Found General Smiths command halted about 1 mile north of Rutherford Creek, the bridge over which had been destroyed. Was ordered by General Sher Page 131 CHAP. XXXV.] EXPEDITION FROM MUEFREESBOROUGH, ETC. 131 dan to try if the ford 1~ miles above was practicable. Found the water very deep and rapid. While making the examination we were under fire of a rebel force posted behind stone walls, close to the bank of the creek. The Fourth Indiana had 2 men killed and 3 severely wounded. Camped at Moores Ford, 1 mile higher up the creek. March 11, General Forrest, with 500 men, advanced to the opposite side of the creek, when a sharp fire was opened on him by the Fourth Michigan, causing him some loss. Having about this time received orders to cross the creek, if I found the ford practicable, Lieutenant Newell opened on them with his guns, and soon drove them to the woods. I then crossed the creek, the Fourth Michigan in advance. As I formed on the south bank, the en- emy appeared in line in the distance, and, dismounting, advanced on foot, with their battle-flag flying. I sent the Fourth Michigan to the right, and requested General Smith, who was now crossing his force, to send a regiment to the left, for the purpose of getting iii the enemys rear. Perceiving our object, they remounted and fell back. I pursued them about 5 miles in the direction of the Lewisburg pike, and then marched for the Columbia pike, followed by General Smith. When 14~ miles from Columbia, I halted, it being now after dark, and sent Colo- nel Long, with the Third Ohio, to feel for the enemys pickets. He arrived at Duck River without having met them, and there found that the entire force of Van iDorns army had crossed during the day on a pontoon bridge and by the ferry-boat. I returned to our camp of the previous night. March 12, returned to Franklin. March 13, camped 2 miles west of Triune. March 14, returned to Mnrfreesborough, arriving in camp at 3.30 p. m. I must call the attention of the general commanding to the gallant manner in which Captain [C. C.] Davis, Seventh Pennsylvania Cavalry, led the charge of his regiment on the 4th instant. He was well sup- ported by both officers and men. Ii have also to call the attention of the general commanding to the great gallantry displayed by Lieutenants [E. G.] Iloys and [J.] Rendle- brock, of the Fourth Cavalry, and their brave men at Thompsons Station on the 8th instant. Inclosed herewith I hand you return of casualties. I am, respectfully, your obedient servant, ROBT. II. G. MINTY, Colonel, Commanding Brigade. Captain SINCLAIR, Assistant Adjutant- General, Gavairy Corps. [Inclosure.] Return of Casualties in cavalry expedition to Unionville and Golumbia, .Afarch 413, 1863. a a a a 5. 5~ Q Command. ~ .4 H 4th Indiana 2 3 5 7th Pennsylvania 4th United States 3 1 4 Total 5 5 1 Page 132 132 KY., MW. AND E. TENN., N. ALA., AND SW. VA. [CHAP. XXXV~ No. 5. Report of Capt. William ill. Flanagan, Third Ohio Cavalry. HEADQUARTERS THIRD Onio VOLUNTEER CAVALRY, ~Jamp Stanley, March 15, 1863. SIR: I have the honor to submit the following report of the recent scout of the Third Ohio Volunteer Cavalry: Pursuant to orders, we marched on the morning of the 4th instant, at daylight, under command of Col. Eli Long, of the Fourth Ohio Volun- teer Cavalry, commanding Second Cavalry Brigade. Taking the Salem pike, we marched about 10 miles in the direction of Unionville, a small village located on the Nashville and Shelbyville turnpike. On arriving within 2 miles of the village, we encountered the enemys pickets, driv- ing them in and following close upon their rear. The enemy, occupying that place in force, fled in haste on hearing of our approach. They did not escape in time, however, to prevent a loss of 50 prisoners and their camp and garrison equipage, consisting of tents, cooking utensils, wagons, & c. Not being prepared to carry any of our captured property with us, we remained in camp just long enough to destroy the same. Thence we were ordered toward Eagleville, on the Nashville and Shelbyville pike, where we bivouacked for the night, our horses under saddle, as we anticipated the enemy might follow in our rear; but they were judicious enough to approach and reconnoiter in small squads, which sufficed, however, to keep us on the alert, with our arms by our side, during the night. We were called up quietly the next morning at 4 oclock, and went as silently as possible about our respective duties. After we had break- fasted we fell into line, and, learning the enemy were occupying Chapel Hill, we marched for that point at 12 m. We reached Chapel Hill about 4 p. in., but only to find vacated camps, as General Steedman, with his brave and hardy soldiers, had routed the enemy, killing and capturing a large number. Weary and disappointed, we then fell back to our encampment at Eagleville. On the following morning we took up our line of march for Camp Stanley, but when 4 miles out were ordered to countermarch and pro- ceed to Triune. From Triune we marched in the direction of Franklin, and, notwithstanding the roads were in bad condition from recent rains, we made a very expeditious march, encamping at night about 9 miles from Franklin. Resuming our march early next day, we reached Frank- lin about 12 in., where we encamped and remained over night. Early next morning, with the First Brigade, we took the Maury County pike, and, traveling about 6 miles, turned to the left up a road leading up a narrow valley to Thompsons Station, expecting there to find the enemy in force; but, being disappointed in this, we marched 5 miles farther on, making a junction at Columbia pike with a heavy column of troops under command of General Granger. Taking the advance of the whole column, with the First Cavalry Brigade immediately in our rear, we started for Columbia, passing through Spring Hill, a point which the enemys cavalry had just left, retiring tdward Columbia. We l)ressed them closely, skirmishing with them along the way without any casualties on our part. On arriving near Spring Creek we found the enemy strongly posted, guarding every ford and disputing with spirit and energy our passage. After skirmishing for several hours with the enemy across the stream, we returned to camp for the night, the enemy still holding his position. On the following day we were ordered to drive the enemy from hi Page 133 CHAP. XXXV.I EXPEDITLON FROM MURF2REESBOROUGH, ETC. position on the opposite side of the stream. The Third Ohio Volunteer Cavalry, by order of the colonel commanding, was dismounted and ordered to dislodge the enemy at the npper ford. I proceeded with my command to a point within 600 or 700 yards of the ford. I divided my command into three parts. I sent one-third, under Lieutenant [N.] Brewster, to the right of the road; one-third, under Captain [J. B.] Luckey, to the left, and the remaining one-third I placed nnder corn- ~iiand of Lieutenant [E. A.] ilaines near the road, under protection of a fence and a piece of woods, to cover the retreat of the right and left flanks in case a retreat should be necessary. I then ordered both flanks to advance cautiously, taking advantage of any natural cover that might be presented them. On arriving within 100 yards of the ford, my right and left flanks were greeted with a brisk fire from the enemy, posted strongly on the oppo- site side of the stream, but the brave men of the Third did not falter, but returned the fire with energy and spirit, and finally drove him from his position and gained complete possession of the ford. Finding the ford impracticable, we returned and reported accordingly. On learning that the enemy had been forced from his position, we were ordered to seek a more practicable fording, which we found a short distance below, and, crossing over, we consolidated with the remounted cavalry under General Grangers command, nnmbering about 3,500, and, being placed in the advance, we marched toward Columbia over a dirt road leading from our place of fording to the Columbia pike. After reaching the pike, one company, nuder command of Sergeant [James M.] Hipkins, was sent to ascertain the practicability of fording Spring Creek in our rear, at the pike crossing, which he reported practicable. When within 14 miles of Columbia the main column was halted, and the Third Ohio was ordered to proceed cautiously forward under cover of nightfall and ascertain, if possible, whether the enemy still remained in force this side of Duck River. We found the enemy had withdrawn his whole force across iDuck River, taking the ferry-boats and his pon- toons with him, and had planted his artillery on the opposite side of the stream. After waiting in silence to discover, if possible, any move- ments the enemy might be making, and finding all within his camp quiet, we returned and joined the main column. We then led, in the advance of the column, in countermarch to a point this side of Spring Creek, where we went into camp about midnight. At dawn on the following day we took up line of march for Franklin, where we arrived at 2 p. in., and encamped for the night, and prepared ourselves with rations for [a march] to Camp Stanley. On the morning of the 13th, we left camp and marched to a point within 2 miles of Triune a camped for the night. distance of about 11 miles, and again en- We resumed our march next morning before daylight, taking in our course the Nashville and Shelbyville turnpike until we reached Eagle- ville, when we turned to the left, following a dirt road until we reached the Salem and Eagleville pike, leading to Murfreesborough. We arrived at Camp Stanley about 4 p. m. on the 14th instant, with- out any casualties or disasters of any character. I am proud to say that the officers and men of the Third bravely and heroically endured the toils, fatigues, and dangers of the expedition without the least murmur or complaint. All of which is respectfully submitted. W. M. FLANAGAN, Gaptai , Commanding Regiment. Lieutenant llnrLnnoxvuu, Actg. Asst. AdJt. Gen Page 134 134 KY., MID. AND E. TENN., N. ALA., AND SW. VA. [CHAr. XXZV. No.6. Report of ]Jlaj. Peter Mathews, Fourth Ohio Cavalry. HEADQUARTERS FOURTH OHIO VOLUNTEER CAVALRY, Camp 8tanley, Tenn., March 16, 1863. SIR: On the evening of March 3,1 received orders from Colonel Long to have the Fourth Regiment in readiness to move at daylight on the 4th Instant. Early on the 4th, Colonel Long assumed command of the Second Cay. airy Brigade, and I took command of the regiment. In the afternoon we took part in the skirmish at Unionville, and, after leaving that place, encamped at Eagleville for the night. During the 5th, parts of the regiment, under command of Captain [M. B.] Chamberlain and Lieutenant [J. A.] Harris, were sent ont to recon- noiter. On the 6th, moved toEagleville, but, receiving orders, countermarched in the direction of Franklin. On the afternoon of the 8th, we reached Franklin and encamped. Left Franklin at daylighton the 9th, marching on a mud road to the Franklin and Columbia pike. For some time before reaching the junc- tion the cavalry were driving the enemys pickets before them, and when we arrived at Thompsons Station, near the junction of the roads, part of the Fourth U. S. Cavalry had a severe skirmish, losing 3 men killed and several badly wounded. The enemy was dislodged by them, and we pushed on, encamping at Spring Hill for the night. In the morning we marched to Rutherford Creek, which was found to be impassable, on account of high stage of water. In the afternoon the Second Bri- gade was sent to reconnoiter a ford on the creek, and the Fourth In- diana Cavalry, being in advance, were fired upon from behind a stone wall and 2 of their number killed. On the afternoon of the 11th, we crossed the creek, and, after skir- mishing the ground in front, moved to the turnpike and tpward Colum- bia, and kept moving in that direction until ordered to countermarch. The next day we arrived at Franklin and encamped for the night. On the 13th, we marched to within 1 mile of Triune, and on the 14th reached camp, passing through Eagleville, having been absent eleven days. As my command only formed part of the brigade, I cannot particu- larize. There were no casualties in the regiment during the trip, and men and horses returned in good condition. The above statement I respectft~lly submit as my report. Respectfully, yours, P. MATHEWS, Major Fourth Ohio Volunteer 6avalry. Lieutenant HEFLEBOWER, Actg. Asst. A~jt. Gen., 2d Cay. Brig. No. 7. Itinerary of the cavalry, Department of the Cumberland, Mqj. Cen. Dacid S. Stanley, U. S. Army, commanding, ]Jfarch 4~25.* FIRST BRIGADE. March 4, moved toward Rover, 863 strong, with about 300 men of the Seventh Pennsylvania and Fourth Michigan. Attacked and drove * From Record of Events, on returns for month of March, 1863 Page 135 CHAP. XXXV.] EXPEDITION FROM MURPREESBOROUGH, ETC. 135 the enemy, 400 strong. Followed them up closely to Unionville, 3 miles soath, where we found an encampment of 600 more. The Seventh Penn- sylvania charged them with the saber, and followed them to within 5 miles of Shelbyville, where they ran into the infantry pickets and cap- tured 9. We captured the entire camp, camp equipage, and transpor- tation of [A. A.] Russells brigade (First and Fourth Alabama), together with 52 prisoners. Loss, 1 man slightly wounded. March 9, advanced from Franklin via Carter Creek pike. Lieutenants Roys and Rendlebrocks company, Fourth U. S. Cavalry, in the ad- vance, drove the Third [Fourth] Mississippi Cavalry to Thompsons Sta- tion, where they were re-enforced by Starnes regiment, Third [Fourth] Tennessee, all under General Armstrong. Attacked them with two companies Fourth U. S. Cavalry and 60 men Seventh Pennsylvania Cavalry. Drove them with a loss of 5 killed and 13 taken prisoners. Our loss, 3 killed and 1 wounded. March 10, in examining a ford on Rutherford Creek, was fired upon from an ambuscade across the creek, killing 2 and wounding 3 of the Fourth Indiana Cavalry. March 11, crossed Rutherford Creek at Moores Ford in the face of Forrests forces, under Forrest in person, driving him from the field. Followed Van Dorn to Columbia. Found that he had crossed Duck River and destroyed the bridge. March 20, proceeded to Milton, to assist Colonel Hall, One hundred and fifth Ohio, whose brigade was surrounded by Morgans forces. Fol~ lowed the rebels to Prosperity Church, taking 2 prisoners. During the month picketed the Manchester, Wartrace, and Brady- ville roads, and latterly the Shelbyville and Middleton, the enemy con- stantly skirmishing with the pickets. SECOND BRIGADE. March 4, the brigade (two regiments) went scouting to Franklin, Rover, & c. Had various encounters with rebel cavalry, routing their forces each time. March 14, Saturday, returned to camp after an absence of eleven days. March 17, review of all the cavalry in the department by Major-Gen- eral Rosecrans. March 26, the Fourth Ohio Volunteer Cavalry sent out to Bradyville on reconnaissance; returned the following morning. THIRD BRIGADE. March 22, engaged in a skirmish with the enemy, repulsing them. Our loss, 2 privates killed and 2 wounded. During the month of March the brigade has done heavy work. Made a scout to Rutherford Creek during the first of the month. Loss, 7 men killed, wounded, and prisoners. Scouted all the month. March 25, had a hard and bloody fight with Forrest, Starnes, Whar- ton, and Biffie. During the month the brigade has captured over 100 prisoners, killed and wounded not less than from 400 to 600 rebels, and captured near 150 males and horses. Have lost about 50 killed, wounded, and pris- oners. Health of the brigade excellent Page 136 136 KY., MID. AND B. TENN., N. ALA., AND SW. VA. [C~tAP. XXXV. MARCH 67, 1863.Reconnaissance from Murfreesborough, including skirmishes near Cliristiana and at Middleton, Tenn. REPOI~TS. No. 1.Brig. (len. Richard W. Johnson, U. S. Army, commanding Second Division, Twentieth Army Corps. No. 2.Lient. Col. Fielder A. Jones, Thirty-ninth Indiana Infantry, commanding First Brigade. No. 3.Col. Hans C. Heg, Fifteenth Wisconsin Infantry, commanding Second Brigade. No. 4.R. R. Gaines, Acting Assistant Adjntant-General, Hagans Cavalry Brigade (Confederate). No. 1. Reports of Brig. Gen. Richard W. Johnson, U. S. Army, commanding Second Division, Twentieth Army Corps. HEADQUARTERS TWENTIETH ARMY CORPS, March 6, 1863. GENERAL: Agreeably to telegraphic orders, I have sent out two brigades. The First Brigade of my division, under Colonel Jones, to go to Middleton, via the old Nashville and Shelbyville dirt road; the other brigade, from General Davis division, under Colonel ileg, moves down on the pike within supporting distance of Colonel Jones. I ordered Jones to remain in the neighborhood of Middleton until sent for, and to communicate with General Sheridan. Colonel ileg remains out under like orders. Both are instructed to communicate with me frequently, and report their respective operatiors. If my niinute iu- structions are followed out, we will surely pick up a number of rebel cavalry. I have called on General Stanley for a regiment of cavalry for duty with these two brigades. Your dispatch last evening, for General Sheridan, was received at 10.45 and forwarded at 11.15, by a squad of cavalry (10). With the regiment called for furnished, I will keep up a communication between Sheridan, Jones, and ileg. I sent a courier to General Sheridan this morning, informing him of the movements of my troops. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, 111. W. JOHNSON, Brigadier- General of Volunteers, Commanding. Brig. Gen. JAMES A. GARFIELD, Chief of Staff. IIDQRS. SECOND DIVISION, TWENTIETH ARMY CORPS, 6amp Sill, March 6, 18638 p. m. MAJOR: From information received from Colonel Jones, commanding First Brigade, Second Division, I have the honor to report that we met the enemy, about 600 strong, composed of the Eighth Confederate and First and Second Alabama, about 3 miles north of Middleton, and drove them 2 miles beyond, meeting with considerable resistance at two or three points. Casualties of the enemy, as near as can be ascertained, were 5 killed and several woundednumber not known. Our loss, none killed, 5 wounded. Not deeming the position a good one, Colonel Jones fell back about 1 mile north of Middleton, on the Shelbyville dirt road, and went into camp for the night, where he was joined by a squadro Page 137 CHAP. XXXv.J SKIRMISHES NEAR CHRISTIANA, TENN., E~I?C. ~ 137 of the Fourth Regular Cavalry. Colonel ilegs brigade occupied Lees Knob, on the Shelbyville pike, about 2 miles east of Colonel Jones, where he has gone into camp for the night. Communication is kept up between both brigades by means of cav~lry. Colonel Jones has heard nothing of General Sheridan. I am, very respectfully, your obedient servant, iR. W. JOHNSON, Brigadier-General of Volunteers, Commanding. Major [J. A.] CAMPBELL, Assistant Adjutant- General, T centieth Corts. P. S.The rebel wounded, some of whom fell into our hands, report a force (Chalmers brigade) at Rover, 0 miles beyond Middleton. The communication from General Sheridan has been sent to Colonel Jones, so he knows where General S. is. No. 2. Report of Licut. Col. Fielder A. Jo~nes, Thirty-ninth indiana Infantry, commanding First Brigade. HDQRS. 1ST BRIGADE, 2D DIVISION, 20TH ARMY Coups, Camp Sill, March 8, 1863. I have the honor to report operations of First Brigade on the 6th and 7th instant. My orders from Brigadier-General Johnson, at that time command- ing Twentieth Army Corps, were to make a reconnaissance on the old Shelbyville stage road to Middleton, my command serving at the same time to cover the left flank of General Sheridan, who was supposed to be at or near Versailles, while my own left would be covered by a brigade to move forward on Shelbyville pike to Christiana. I left camp at 7 a. m. March 6, meeting no resistance until we arrived to within 4 miles from Middleton. Here we found the ei~iemy posted in a strong position, which was carried handsomely by our troops. We drove the enemy through Middleton, and out of his camp, 1~ miles beyond the town. He made four different stands, but was quickly dis- lodged by our men. I never saw finer nor more intrepid skirmishing than was done by the Thirty-second and Thirty-ninth Indiana and Forty-ninth Ohio and about 70 men of the Third Indiana Cavalry. Great credit is due both to officers and men of those commands. The other two regiments of the brigade were held in reserve. The roads were so bad as to render our artillery almost useless. We lost 2 men wounded, 1 only severely. The enemy left 7 dead on the field, and 2, mortally wounded, fell into our hands, and were attended by our sur- geons. These men reported, and their report was confirm~d by citizens and others, that the force we fought consisted of the First and Second Alabama Cavalry and Eighth Confederate Regular Cavalry, number- ing in all about 900 men, and under the command of Colonel [J. S.] Prather. They also reported a strong cavalry force at Rover, with one brigade of infantry at or near Unionville. Learning from General MeCook that General Sheridan had moved to Harpeth and Triune, I deemed it prudent to fall back to a strong posi- tion just north of Middleton, where we bivouacked for the night. At 2 a. m. of the 7th, I received orders from General McCook to return to camp, where we arrived about 9 a. m. of same date Page 138 138 KY., MID. AND E. TENN., N. ALA., AND SW. VA. [CHAP. XXXV. The country about Middleton is generally rough, diversified with small farms and dense cedar thickets, and intersected by a labyrinth of neighborhood roads, and has been entirely exhausted of forage. Very respectfully, F. A. JONES, Lieutenant- Colonel, Commanding Brigade. Capt. T. CLARK, Asst. Adjt. Gen., Second Division. [Indorsements.] HDQRS. SECOND DIVISION, TWENTIETH ARMY CORPS, ill reh 8, 1863. Respectfully forwarded. The service was handsomely performed as the gallant Colonel Jones. is all service intruste(l to R. W. JOHNSON, Brigadier- General of Volunteers, Gommanding. HEADQUARTERS TWENTIETH AMMY Cones, Respectfully forwarded. ]lfareh 9, 1863. Colonel Jones is a gallant and intrepid officer, and deserves promotion. A. MoD. MoCOOK, Afajor- General. ADDENDA. HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE CUMEERLAND, ]Jliurfreesborough, March 13, 1863. Lient. Col. F. A. JONES, 6~omdg. First Brigade, Second Division, Twentieth Corps: SIR: The general commanding directs me to say that he has read with great satisfaction the report of the handsome services performed by the brigade under your command, on the 6th and 7th instant. He thanks you and the troops under your command for the gallantry and spirit displayed by all concerned, and the promptness and courage which characterized all their movements on that occasion. You will please convey to them the good opinion which the general commanding entertains of their conduct. I am, colonel, very respectfully, your obedient servant, HENRY STONE, Lieutenant and Acting As8istant Adjutant- General. No.3. Report of ~Jol. Hans C. ifeg, Fifteenth Wisconsin infantry, commanding Second Brigade. HDQRS. 2D BRIc~ADE, 1ST DIVISION, 20TH ARMY CORPS, ]Jfareh 7, 1863. SIR: I have the honor to report the following movements and trans- actions of this brigade during the 6th and 7th instant: Agreeably to instructions from headquarters Twentieth Army Corps, I proceeded toward Shelbyville, on the pike, at 7 a. m. on the 6th, with two days rations and without baggage. Arriving at the Methodis Page 139 ChAP. XXXV.] SIURMISHES NEA1~ CH1~ISTIIANA, TENN., E~G. church about 84 miles from Murfreesborough, I met the enemys cav- alry in considerable force, which were soon routed by skirmishers from the Twenty-firat Illinois and Fifteenth Wisconsin Volunteers. At the house of Captaiu Newman, near the brick church, the enemys cavalry dismounted aud endeavored to hold us iu check, but the steady advance of our skirmishers drove them from their hiding-places. Fall- ing baGk upon their reserve, they agaiu made a stand along the crest of a high rocky bluff, well covered with timber, at a point where the pike runs through a gap of this bluff. It was evident the enemy were trying to post their artillery, it being for them a very strong position. I doubled the strength of the skirmish line by details from the Fif teenth Wisconsin and Twenty-first Illinois Volunteers, and gave orders to take and occnpy the blnff. In the mean time Lieutenant [A.] Wood- bury, commanding Second Minnesota Battery, brought up a section o~ his Parrott guns, and got them in position on the crest of the hill. The enemy, failing to obtain for his artillery the position he sought, planted two guns three-quarters of a mile farther back on the pike, and opened a lively fire on our lines. Woodbnry replied with his Parrotts, and soon forced the enemys artillery to retire. My orders were to remain at this point, and, if possible, open com- munication with Lieutenant-Colonel Jones, commanding an expedition moving toward Middleton, on the Shelbyville dirt road. The commu- nication was opened by a small detachment of the Third Indiana Cav- alry, ordered out with me as an escort. The enemys force consisted of cavalry, who dismounted and fought as infantry. I held the position indicated above until 3 a. in., March 7, when I received orders from Major-General McCook, commandin~, corps, to re- turn to camp. We captured a few guns and killed some of the enemys horses. There was also some evidence of our artillery having played on them with effect. Private Elijah Milan, of Company F, Twenty-first Illinois Volunteers, was mortally wounded during the skirmish. No other casualties. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, HANS C. HEG, Colonel, Commanding. Lient. T. W. MORRISON, Assistant Adjutant- General. No. 4. Report of B. B. Gaines, Acting Assistant Adjutant-General, flagans Cavalry Brigade (Confederate). HEADQUARTERS HAGANS CAVALRY BRIGADE, March 6, 18634 p. m. MAJOR: Lieutenant-Colonel [James ID.] Webb, commanding the reg- iment picketing this road (the Shelbyville and Murfreesborough turn- pike), instructs me to inform you that, about 10.30 oclock this morning, the enemy engaged his pickets along his whole left from the turnpike. He moved up his grand guard with one piece of artillery, when he opened npon them with his artillery. They replied, shot for shot, for fourteen shotsthe firing at intervals which covered about one hour. They pursued the same course with small-arms, their skirmishers merely replying to ours Page 140 140 KY., MID. AND E. TENN., N. ALA., AND SW. YA~ [Citir. XXXV. Their force was large, consisting of all arms, and brought wagons. He has been compelled to fall back in consequence of the driving in of our forces on the left from Middleton to about the 10-mile post from Shelbyville. The enemy are now pressing in on our left. The Third Alabama Regiment, on our right, has also fallen back. Colonel [J.] liagan is absent, having gone this morning to confer with Colonel [P. D.] Itoddey, near Chapel Hill. I am, major, very respectfully, your obedient servant, IR. B. GAINES, Acting Assistant Adjutant- General. Major [THOMAS M.] JACK, Assistant Adjutant- General, Polks Gorps. MARCH 8, 1863.Capture of forage train near Carthage, Tenn. Report of Brig. Gen. George Crook, U. ~. Army. - CARTHAGE, March 15, 1863. GENERAL: I have awaited the return of the prisoners before making my detailed report of the capture of my forage train on the 8th instant, in order that I might get at the full particulars. The forage train, consisting of 18 wagons, was guarded by two com- p nies of the Eleventh Regiment Ohio Volunteer Infantry, commanded by Capt. George Johnson, of the same regiment. The escort numbered 55 men, making, with 18 teamsters, 73 men. From the best information I can get, the circumstances of the capture were about these: The train was in a lane, near its destination, when the enemys cavalry were first discovered. The cal)taiu got his men to- gether, crossed over one of the fences into an open field, and drew them up in line. After the cavalry had surrounded him and commenced ad- 1vancing, the captain gave the command to aim twice and then recover arms. The last time the enemy fired, and in return a few of his men fired without orders. The enemy then closed in and took them without further resistance. Three of our men were slightly wounded, and 1 had his leg broken. There was a cover of woods a short distance in rear of our men, which they could have reached after they saw the enemy, and before the at. tack was made, from all accounts. The enemy were counted by several persons to be 140. The 3 commissioned officers and a few men were not paroled. I have been in the habit of sending two companies as escort to my forage trains, and only two days previous one of my expeditions, from the direction of Rome and Alexandria, returned reporting no enemy. But, unfortunately, on the morning of the 8th, 1 was sick. Two com- panies from this regiment were ordered to escort this train. By some mistake two of the smallest companies in the regiment were sent, and, in addition, my quartermaster ordered the train some 1~ miles farther than it had been in the habit of foraging. I would again report, for the information of the general commanding, my utter failure to accomplish any result here without cavalry. I have sent out several expeditions over this country without accomplishing anything. They could get reliable information of nothing only what they sew, and could only see a few scouts on distant hills Page 141 CHAP. XXXV.] SKIRMISH ON HARPETH RIVER, TENN. 141 All the suitable [stock] has been taken out of this country, so it is impossible to mount my men. I have the honor to remain, your most obedient servant, GEORGE CROOK, Brigadier- General. Brig. Gen. JAMEs A. GARFIELD, Chief of Staffi MARCH 8, 1863.Skirmish on Harpeth River, near Triune, Tenn. Report of Brig. Gen. James B. Steedman, U. S. Army. IIDQRS. THIRD DIVISION, FOURTEENTH ARMY CORPS, Triune, Tenn., March 9, 1863. GENERAL: Sunday morning my scouts advised me of the approach of the enemy with a large cavalry force. After getting my command in readiness to fight, I moved out to the ILlarpeth, 3 miles ill front of my intrenchments, with 400 cavalry, a regiment of infantry, and one section of artillery, and discovered the enemy posted in the woods on the south bank of the river. He made several efforts to draw us across the river, and, failing in this, disclosed the position of his a tillery, which was posted to rake the pike and ford at the crossing of the pike. After firing 25 or 30 rounds, and menacing our front by exhibiting a con- siderable force in line, he attempted to cross at a ford 1 mile below the pike, where a sharp skirmish ensued with three comp~ iiies of the First East Tennessee Cavalry, posted at that point to protect the crossing-. Our cavalry repulsed the enemy, wounding S or 6, and having 2 of our men wounded. While ~he skirmish at the ford below the pike was going on, a slight skirmish occurred on the left, and my battery caused his artillery to retire. For some reason, either because he was satisfied we were ready to fight, and strong enough to make a dangerous, if not successful, resist- ance, or apprehended trouble in his rear from the direction of Murfrees- borough, he fell back at 2 p. in., and during the night retreated in the direction of Spring Hill. I have ascertained to a certainty that the force was that of Van Dorn and Forrest, the same that repulsed and captured Colonel Coburn and his command in front of Franklin. The enemys force is variously esti- mated at from 6 000 to 8 000. I have, of course, no means of estimating it except to take the rep~orts of those who saw it all, and from the~e I am satisfied it was between 5,000 and 6,000, 11 mounted, with six pieces of artillery. I have patrolled the country in every direction south of ilarpeth 5 miles, and can report positively no enemy within that circle, and nothing beyond that for 5 miles, except small squads of cavalry. I know posi- tively that the enemy fell back in the direction of Spring Hill. I have established my camp three-quarters of a mile north of Triune, on the Kolensyille pike; have a very strong position, with rifle-pits cov- ering my front, and feel a perfect confidence in my ability to hold the position. All quiet in the direction of Franklin. With esteem, yours, truly, JAMES B. STEEDMAN, Brigadier-General, Commanding Third Division. Brig. Gen. JAMES A. GARFIELD, Ohief of Staff, Murfreesborough, Tenn Page 142 142 KY., MID. AND B. TENN., N. ALA., AND SW. VA. [CHAP. XXXV. MARCH 812,1863.Expedition from Franklin to Columbia, Tenn., including skirmishes at Thompsons Station (9th) and Rutherford Creek (10th and 11th). I~EPORTS. No. 1.Maj. Gen. Gordon Granger, U. S. Army. No. 2.Brig. Gen. G. Clay Smith, U. S. Army. No. 1. Reports of Maj. Gem. Gordon Granger, U. S. Army. HEADQUARTERS, Spring Hill, ]iliareh 9, 1863. The rebels have scattered, most of them, in the direction of Nolens- ville and Chapel Hill pike. Our cavalry and Mintys made a dash on Thompsons Station, killing 4 and wounding 3. Shall I advance on to Columbia or return to look after Triune ~ G. GRANGER, Major- General. General ROSECRANS. RUTHERFORDS CRossu~, ]Ifarch 11, 1863. GENERAL: Succeeded in driving the enemy from one of the fords several miles above, after a sharp skirmish, and am now crossing the cavalry to tarn their right flank. Creek still too high to cross either infantry or artillery. I fear most of Van Dor~is forces crossed Duck River last night; if so, I shall move back to Franklin to-morrow. Have heard nothing of rebel forces in the direction of Raleigh or Chapel Hill. The ground is so miry it is impossible to move artillery, except on the pike. Our men and animals suffered much from the terrible storm of yesterday and last night. Van Porn greatly overestimates the strength of my force. G. GRANGER, ill ajor. General. Major-General ROSECRANS. No. 2. Report of Brig. Gen. G. Clay Smith, U. S. Army. HEADQUARTERS FOURTH CAVALRY BRIGADE, Franklin, Xenn., March 19, 1863. I have the honor to report the part taken by the Fourth Cavalry Bri- gade in the late expedition to Columbia. On Sunday, the 8th instant, General Granger ordered me to take a portion of my force and move on the Columbia pike, and send a column on the Lewisburg road. The Second Michigan, Major IDickey command. ing; Ninth Pennsylvania, Colonel Jordan commanding, and Seventh Kentucky, Lieutenant.Colonel Faulkner commanding, were with me; total force, 750 men. The Sixth and Fourth Kentucky, under Colonel Watkins, moved on the Lewisburg pike. At about 3~ miles from Franklin both parties encountered the picket Page 143 CHAP. XXXV.] SKIRMISHES AT THOMPSONS STATION, ETC. 143 of the enemy. Colonel Watkins met with considerable opposition for 9 miles, when he was brought to a halt by the presence of a large force, on Monday afternoon, under Van Dorn, with artillery. He fell back, after a brisk skirmish, half or three-quarters of a mile; at the same time the enemy withdrew and moved toward Thompsons Station. On the same day about 1,000 rebels, with three pieces of artillery, appeared before me 1 mile north of Thompsons Station, where a heavy and spir- ited skirmish took place, in which the Second Michigan and Ninth Penn- sylvania acted with great coolness, bravery, and promptness. The enemy were driven back, and about 800 of them moving to my right and toward my rear, compelled me to throw half of my force back and to their front, when the enemy were again repulsed. The entire num- ber then fell back to Thompsons Station,and, I presume, the cause of no further resistance on their part was partly owing to the presence of Colonel Minty, with his column and artillery, close to the station and moving toward their rear. Unfortunately I was not aware of the whereabouts of Colonel Minty until he had eiitered the station, where he made a dash, as he told me, on about 300 or 400, losing 2 of his men killed and 2 mortally wounded. From the station I proceeded to Spring Hill, where the rebels were again driven out, Van Dorn, Forrest, and Starnes havin~ left some three hours before with the greater portion of their commands. Colonel Minty came up pretty soon. General Granger also came up with his com- mand. On the 10th, I proceeded to Rutherford Creek, driving about 400 rebel cavalry across the creek, which was high, rapid, and swelling; bridges all destroyed. Quite a lively skirmish was kept up for an hour or two along the creek by the sharpshooters of the rebels on the south side of the creek, and the Second Michigan and Ninth Pennsylvania on the north. They displayed their artillery on the opposite hills from me, and seemed determined to resist any farther progress of our forces. I in- formed General Granger, who came up very soon with his forces, Gen- eral Sheridan, and Colonel Minty. On the morning of the 11th, Colonel Minty and myself were directed to cross Rutherford Creek and feel the enemy on the right. Colonel Mintv, having two pieces of artillery with him, shelled a number of skirmishers and sharpshooters from a house and cotton-gin opposite the ford we intended to cross. After they were driven away and the cross- ing watched by some infantry, we crossed the creek without any resist- ance, Colonel linty in front some 600 yards beyond, and on the side of the hill about 500 or 600 yards from the rebels. Colonel Minty formed his men in line of battle, ready for a charge. I deployed the Seventh Kentucky on the left and the Second Michigan on the right, and dis- mounted the Ninth Pennsylvania. The Sixth and Fourth Kentucky were formed in line on the left of Colonel Minty, but the opportunity did not present itself for a charge, as the Seventh Kentucky, under Colonel Faulkner, and the Second Michigan, nuder Major Dickey, drove the enemy entirely away, and followed them about 1~ miles. From this place, after feeding, we proceeded to the Columbia pike, and after going toward Columbia about 1~ or 2 miles, Colonel Minty sent forward a portion of his men, who shortly returned with the news, iN in front. The entire command returned across the creek, and the next day to Franklin, the Fourth Brigade passing from Spring Hill over to the Lewisburg pike, and scouring the country some 15 or 20 miles. My command lost 1 private killed and 4 wounded, slightly. The enemy, at the station, lost 2 killed and 5 wounded; at Spring Hill, Page 144 144 KY., MID. AND E. TENN., N. ALA., AND SW. VA. [CHAP. XXXV. woimdcd. Several were said to be killed and wounded at Rutherford Ci~ck. ~i wcnty prisoners were taken, and 25 or 30 horses and mules. I call your attention, with great pleasure, to the coolness, firmness, and promptness with which every officer obeyed my orders, and the bravery of the men in advancing steadily ou the picked and daring sharpshooters of the rebels. They were driven every time from their hiding-placestrees, stones, fences, and housesby our men, and but for their intimate knowledge of the country would at all times fall a prey to the eagerness and courage of men who have forgotten what fear is. Colonel Watkins displayed great courage and skill in his move- ments on the Lewisburg pike before twice his number, and only joined me by order on the night of the 10th at Rutherford Creek. You must permit me to say I would have been much more successful, and the result much greater, if I had been blessed with some artillery. Nothing is more unpleasant to me than to be shot at half or three-quar- ters of a mile with a 6 or 12 pounder shell and only be able to respond with a rifle, thereby requiring two or three hours to do what probably might be done in less than half the time if I could return shell for shell. What Colonel Minty did at Rutherford Creek in a short time and with safety to his men would have required much time, and probably several lives, on my part. Respectfully, your obedient servant, S~JITll, G. CLAY Brigadier- General. Captain SINCLAIR, Assistant Adjutant- General. 1~ARCH 9, 1863.Skirmish at Hazle Green, Ky. Report of Miaj. Gen. Horatio U. Wright, U. S. Army, commanding Depart ment of the Ohio. CINCUqNATI, March 14, 1563. COLONEL: Brig. Gen. Q. A. Gilimore, commanding District of Central Kentucky, in a report just received, states that a portion of Clukes force, which recently entered Kentucky, was attacked on the 9th instant at ilazie Green by a detachment of the Forty-fourth Ohio Volunteer In- fantry, which lie had ordered out from Richmond, and that 25 of the rebels and a number of horscs and arms were captured without any loss on our side. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, II. G. WRIGHT, Major- General, Commanding. Col. J. C. KELTON, Asst. A~jt. Gen., Rd qrs. of the Army, Washington, D. C. IV[ARCH 914, 1863.Reconnaissance from Salem to Versailles, Tenn. Rep~rt of Brig. Gen. Jefferson C. Davis, U. S. Army. IIDQRS. FIRST DIVISION, TWENTIETH ARMY CORPS, March 16, 1863. COLONEL: The following detailed report will show the movements of this division, nnder orders from the general commanding corps, sinc Page 145 CHAr. XXXV. I RECONNAISSANCE TO VERSAILLES, TENN. 145 leaving camp on the 9th instant on an expedition to the fronta recon- naissance to act as a unit with the movements of the Third Division, and to watch any movement the enemy might make: Two brigades of this division (the First, commanded by Col. P. Sid- ney Post, and the Third, commanded by Lieutenant-Colonel [W. P.] Chandler) were, in compliance with instructions, stationed at Salem on the 7th instant. Upon orders being received for a move forward, these brigades were held in readiness, and, npon the arrival of the Second Brigade at this camp from a scout (see Colonel ilegs report, herewith inclosed*), this brigade was moved forward to Salem. Whereupon the division, supplied with three days rations, marched on the 9th instant to Yersailles, 13 miles to the front, and bivouacked for the night. Brig. Gen. T. T. Crittenden having reported for duty, was assigned to the command of the Third Brigade. In consequence of not receiving orders, which was afterward ascer- tained were sent me during the night of the 9th instant, regulating my movements, the command remained at Versailles until 10 a. m. of the 10th,~but moved forward in the direction of Triune, through Eagleville, arriving at Triune at 9 p. m. same day, and bivouacked. Remained at Triune until the morning of the 13th. Three days rations were obtained from General Steedman, stationed at Triune, and, in compliance with instructions received from corps headquarters, the march was resumed on the morning of the 13th, and arrived at Eagleville, where we biv- ouacked during the night. - On the morning of the 14th, General Sheridan, with his command, on return from his expedition in the direction of Franklin and Columbia, arrived at Eagleville, and when his command had cleared the road, in obedience to instructions, the march was again resumed, and arrived at Versailles same day, where we remained until the morning of the 15th instant. On the morning of the 15th, there was slight picket firing, but no dem- onstration of attack. Between 200 and 250 rebel cavalry were discov- ered beyond our outpost, toward Rover, moving in the direction of the pike running to Eagleville, and one-half mile distant from this pike. They were dislodged by a reconnaissance made to the front for this pur- pose, and, in obedience to orders from corps headquarters, the march was resumed on the morning of the 15th, and arrived in camp at 3 p. m. Constant communication was kept up with corps headquarters and Gen- eral Grangers command, which was acting as a unit to this division, and stationed, until the morning of the 14th, at Versailles. I deem it my duty here to report, from conclusive evidence, the burn- ing of a large store-house in Eagleville, on the 11th, by a part of the Third Jndiana Cavalry, while under orders to join my command while at Triune, and, on return to Eagleville, the burning of two houses, more than probably by this same cavalry, on the evening of the 13th. Where- upon they were sent to the general commanding corps, with a statement in regard to the above facts, for his action. The first four days of the expedition the weather was exceedingly in- element, and the troops suffered from exposure, being without tents and with butt little baggage. - Very respectfully, your obedient servant, JEF. C. DAVIS, Brigadier- General, Commanding First Division. Licut. Col. G. P. THRUSToN, Ghief of iS~taff. * Not found. 10 R RVOL XXIII, PT Page 146 146 KY., MID. AND E. TENN., N. ALA., AND SW. VA. [CHAr. XXXV. MARCH 13, 1863...Skirmisli at Rover, Tenn. Report of Brig. Gen. John A. Wharton, C. S. Army. HEADQUARTERS WHARTO~NS CAVALRY, Unionville, March 13, 13037 p. m. GENERAL: I have the honor to report that the table was turned upon the Yankee cavalry to-day, and they are running. A considerable bevy of Yankee cavalry came down to our picket stand at Rover. Captain Gordon, of my scout company, skirmished with them from near Eagle- yule to Rover. Captain [W. C.] Bacot, a most gallant officer of [A. A.] Russells regiment (whom I have long known), was out on a scout, and charged the enemy on their flank while they were engaging our men in front. The enemy fled before Bacot, and, with Gardners company, they were pursued to their reserves, 3 miles, capturing 1 prisoner, of Jeff. [Jefferson C.] Davis division. Reached Eagleville to-day about noon, from Triune. I think he is on his way back to Murfreesborough; will know to-morrow. Sheridans division is, from [all I] can learn, at Ver- sailles. This point is important, and I shall concentrate more cavalry here. Please ask Captain [W. B.] Richmond or [II. C.] Yeatman to send me the latest papers. Most respectfully, general, your obedient servant JNO. A. WHARTON, Brigadier- General. Lieut. Gen. LEONIDAS POLK, Commanding, d~c. MARCH 1314, 1.863.Capture of Conscripts near Charlotte, Tenn. Reports of Col. Sanders D. Bruce, Twentieth Kentucky Infantry. CLARKSVILLE, TENN., March 13, 1863. My cavalry found another party of rebel cavalry yesterday near Char- lotte, capturing 13 prisoners with horses. Five are new conscripts, who claim to be Union men, and desire to take the oath. Instruct me. S. D. BRUCE, Colonel, Connnanding. Brig. 0-en. JAMES A. GARFIELD, Chief of Staff. CLARKSVILLE, ]Iiarch 14, 1863. We captured a few more rebels to-day. The country is clear. No danger on river. Their whole force has cross~d Duck River low down for fear of being cut offi S. D. BRUCE, Colonel, Commanding. General JAMES A. GARFIELD, Chief of Staff Page 147 CHAP. XXXV.] SKIRMISH AT RICHLAND STATION, TENN. 147 ~ARCI1 19, 1863.Skirmish at Richiard Station, Tenn. REPORTS. No. 1.Brig. Gen. Eleazer A. Paine, U. S. Army, commanding at Gallatin, Tenn. No. 2.Col. George P. Smith, One hundred and twenty-ninth Illinois Infantry. No. 3.Brig. Gen. Henry M. Judah, U. S. Army, commanding at Bowling Green, Ky. No. 4.Maj. Isaac R. Sherwood, One hundred ;and eleventh Ohio Infantry. No. 1. Reports of Brig. Gen. Bleazer A. Paine, U. S. Army, commanding at Gallatin, Tenn. HEADQUARTERS UNITED STATES FORCES, Gallatin, Tcnn., March 25, 1863. GENERAL: Herewith I send you the official report of Colonel Smith upon the railroad attack, on the afternoon of the 19th instant. I wish to add that Colonel Smith and his regiment have been of in- valuable service to me in hunting down the outlaws who infest the northern part of this county. I have just received a dispatch asking why I did not report the occur- rence to headquarters. Within ten minutes from my receipt of Colonel Smiths dispatch, I sent one to headquarters. IRespeetfully submitted. E. A. PAINE, Brigadier- General, Gommanding. [General IROSECUANS.] GALLATIN, March 25, 1863. GENERAL: Your dispatch of to-day is received. Within ten minutes from the time that I received the dispatch from Colonel Smith inform- ing me of the attack, I sent the following: Brigadier-General GARFIELD, Chief of Staff, Murfree8borough: GENERAL: A guerrilla baud ran the passenger down train from Louisville off the track in Richiand woods, about 16 miles from there, this evening. Colonel Smith sent some infantry; killed 1, wounded 3, and took 4 prisoners. I think they will get the train through to-night. Our loss, none. I shall go up as soon as we can get a loco- motive. B. A. PAINE, Brigadier-General. General, the above dispatch was sent to General Garfield that night and the next day I made a written report to General Garfield upon the matter, referring to my dispatch the evening before. Gene~al, I never sent a dispatch or commuuication to a newspaper, except a few lines to a Chicago paper ou the capture of Fort Donelson. I do not know what was in the Louisville Journal. E. A. PAINE, Qer~era~l, General IIOSECRANS Page 148 148 KY., MID. AND B. TENX., N. ALA., AND SW. VA. [ChAP. IXXY. No. 2. Report of Col. George P. Smith, One hundred and twenty-ninth Illinois infantry. HDQRS. 129TH ILLINOIS VOLUNTEER INFANTRY, South Tunnel, Tenn., March 24, 1863. DEAR GENERAL: As the finale of the rebel raid upon the. Louisville and Nashville Railroad, of the 19th instant, near Ilicliland Station (of which I apprised you by telegram of that date), I beg leave to report that the rebels were completely routed and driven from the ground in great disorder. We recaptured most of the mail, express goods, of which there was a large quantity, and $9,000 in money, which was taken from the train. We also captured 10 guns (Springfield rifle), and should have got a good many more, but whilst my men were pursuing the enemy, a force arrived at the scene of action on a. train of cars from Bowling Green, Ky., who picked up the guns which the rebels had thrown away in their flight. Twenty-eight horses and 4 prisoners were captured. One rebel killed. In the retreat, as admitted by the rebels, 18 were wounded, some slightly, others more seriously. One of the prisoners, who was shot through the knee, was peremptorily taken from the corporal who had him in charge, by a medical officer, who claimed to be high in authority, and who, as he said, was going to Louisville. General, it is but just to say of Companies A and K of my command, who are stationed at the stockade, 14 miles from where the train was thrown from the track, that they made the distance and were firing against the marauders within twelve minutes from the time they heard the crash and firing upon the cars. Company A was commanded by Lieut. J. F. Culver, a brave and effi- cient officer; Company K, by their first sergeant, Charles Margraff. Most respectfully submitted. Yours, obediently, G. P. SMITH, Golonel, Gommand~ng. Brig. Gem E. A. PAINE. No. 3. Report of Brig. Gen. Henry AT. Judah, U. S. Army, commanding at Bowling Green, Ky. HEADQUARTERS UNITED STATES FORCES, Bowling Green, Ky., March 21, 1803. CAPTAIN: I forward herewith the report of Major Sherwood, One hundred and eleventh Ohio Volunteer Infantry, in command of the detachment sent by me to the scene of the recent attack upon the railroad, near iRichland, Tenn. Although the One hundred and twenty-ninth Illinois is serving in another department, I feel justified in directing the attention of the district commander to several facts developed in Major Sherwoods re- port. Among them, the rank of the officer in charge of so large a party; its abrupt departure, leaving to my detachment the duty of guarding the train, and the reported possession, on the part of two of the wounded rebels, of passes from Colonel Smith, Qne .huudvecl ~rnd twenty-ninth IUinoi~ Page 149 thw. XXXV.] SKIRMISh AT 14CiILA~D STATION, TENN. 149 My detachment left without supper or blankets, and, excepting a few crackers, were without food for nearly twenty-four hours, during which interval they faithfully guarded provisions of all kinds, including deli- cacies, a fact which speaks favorably for their discipline. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, II. M. JUDAII, Brigadier- General, Commanding. Capt. A. C. SEMPLE, Assistant Adjutant- General, District of Western Kentucky. No. 4. Report of Maj. Isaac B. sherwood, One hundred and eleventh Ohio Infantry. IIDQRS. lilTU REGT. Onio VOLUNTEER INFANTRY, Bowling Green, Ky., March 21, 1863. SIR: On the evening of the 19th instant, I was placed in command of a detachment of 200 men from this regiment (One hundred and elev- enth Ohio), with orders from Brigadier-General Judah to proceed im- mediately by railroad to a point on the Louisville and Nashville road, about 9 miles south of Franklin, between Mitchellville and IRichland, where, it was said, the rebels had possession of a passenger train of cars. We reached the spot about 8 p. in.; found the rebels gone, and the train guarded by about 100 men of the One hundred and twenty- ninth Illinois, under command of a lieutenant. The spot where the train was thrown from the track i~ about 14 miles distant from the cam p and stockade of a portion of Colonel Smiths (One hundred and twenty-ninth Illinois Regiment) command. The soldiers in camp were only notified of the outrage by hearing the crash of the falling engine, as it was precipitated over the embankment, and the discharge of mus- ketry, as the rebels fired into the train. About 10 p. in. the lieutenant in command of the men of the One hundred and twenty-ninth Illinois drew in his men and left for camp. I immediately threw out guards, and, npon learning that the express goods and baggage were left unguarded, sent men to protect it. We finished relaying the track at 11 a. m. the next day, and loaded the express goods and baggage on the freight train which went forward to Nashville, when I returned to Bowling Green with my command, arriv- ing at 4.20 p. m. The major and adjutant of the One hundred and twenty-ninth Illinois visited the wreck about 9 a. in., the day after the outrage. From the best information I could gather, the outrage was committed by from 60 to 75 men, under command of a Captain Jones, from Shelby- ville, Ky. (formerly of John Morgans cavalry). Au obstruction was placed on the track at a short curve in the road, which threw the en- gine and two cars from the track. As soon as the train was stopped, the, guerrillas fired into it. The passengers (women, civilians, and offi- cers), numbering in all some 200, commenced scattering in all directions, leaving the rebels in quiet possession of the train. Plundering was immediately commenced. They cut open the mail-bag and robbed the mail; broke open the express safe and took out the money, and were just on the point of paroling the officers captured, when the men from the camp of the One hundred and twenty-ninth Illinois made their ap- pearance and drove them from the train. In their flight they droppe Page 150 150 k~, MID. AND E. TENN., N. ALA., AND SW. VA. [CHAP. XXXV. the largest portion of the money captured and a part of the mail. The men of the One hundred and twenty-ninth Illinois succeeded in capturing 6 men and 4 horses, and severely wounding 1 man. Not a soldier on our side, or a passenger, was injured. The money dropped by the rebels was found; also a part of the mail. Captain [T. C.] Nor- ris, who commanded a scouting party from my command, found six guns and a small portion of the lost mail. The guns (two Enfield and two Springfield rifles) II hold subject to your orders; the mail I have forwarded. I was unable to learn from the express messenger the amount of money carried away. But little of the express goods were damaged, and only a small portion missing. I also learned that the rebels were piloted to the spot by a man living 1~- miles distant (name not known), and that two of the men cap. tured had passes from Colonel Smith, of the One hundred and twenty- ninth Illinois. I am, sir, your most obedient servant, I. iL SHERWOOD, Major One hundred and eleventh Ohio Volunteer Infantry. Capt. R. C. KIsE, Assistant Adjutant- General. MARCH 19, 1863.Skirmish at Spring~ Hill, Teun. IREPORTS. No. l.Maj. Gen. Gordon Granger, U. S. Army. No. 2.Col. Thomas J. Jordan, Ninth Pennsy1~ania Cavalry. No. 1. Report of AIaj. Gen. Gordon Granger, U. S. ~ FRANKLIN, March 19, 18639.20 p. m. GENERAL: Cosbys division of Van Porns forces reached Spring 11111 last night. To-day our cavalry drove them back across Ruther- ford Creek, with loss of 2 men. The pontoon b ~idge at Columbia is reported finished. I urgently beg that General Crook be restored to this command. My recruits are not receiving that instruction and drill which they require, by reason of working in the trenches and doing double work of this kind. G. GRANGEIR, Major-General. General ROSECRANS. No. 2. Report of Gol. Thomas J. Jordan, Ninth Pennsylvania Gavairy. HEADQUARTERS NINTH PENNSYLVANIA CAVALRY, Franklin, Tenn., March 20, 1863. SIR: I beg leave to report that, agreeably to orders, I moved on the morning of the 19th with 330 men, detachments from the Ninth Penn- sylvania, Second Michigan, and Fourth and Seventh Kentucky Cavalry, toward Spring Hill, on the Columbia turnpike, at which place I was t Page 151 CtIAP. xxr~r.] SKIRMISH AT LIBERTY, TENN. 151 meet the command of Colonel [L. D.] Watkins that had been sent out on the Carter Creek road. About 4 miles from Franklin I captured 2 prisoners, who informed me that there was a divisIon of cavalry (rebel) at Spring Hill. After sending the prisoners under a guard, with a dispatch to your- self to headquarters, I moved on carefully to Thompsons Station, and, finding no enemy, I proceeded forward to Spring Hill. My whole command, with the exception of 70 men of the Fourth Kentucky Cav- alry, was deployed as skirmishers and flankers. immediately on passing the town, I came in contact with the enemy, about 800 or 900 strong, drawn up on the wooded hill to the right of the road, and a most galling fire was opened by them upon Company A, Ninth Pennsylvania Cavalry, killing 1 man and very seriously wounding another. I ordered my men to dismount and advance carefully, taking advantage of the fences and irregularities of the ground to shelter them, and, if possible, drive the enemy from their position. Afterasharpconflicttheenemywithdrew,andlfollowedthemabout 1 mile, when I halted my command till Colonel Watkins came up, as I had information that he was near. We then joined our forces and drove the enemy over Rutherford Creek. By this time, as night was ap- proaching, I ordered the horses to be fed, and as a great part of the command had run out of rations, marched back to camp at Franklin, at which place I arrived at 12 m. The moment the enemy began to retire, I at once sent a dispatch to General Smith, notifying him of the fact. Respectfully submitted. THOS. J. JORDAN, Colonel Ninth Pennsylvania Cavalry. Capt. J. SPEED PERRY, Assistant Adjutant- General. MARCh 19, 1863.Skirmish at Liberty, Tenn. Beport of Brig. Gen. John if. Morgan, C. S. Army. HEADQUARTERS MORGANS BRIGADE, McMinnville, March 21, 18631 p. m. GE:NERAL: A dispatch just received from General Morgan, dated Liberty, March 19, says: Upon reaching Liberty, Ifound that Colonel [W. C. P.] Breckinridge was drawn up in line of battle near Liberty. The enemy advanced in force in our front, and also upon our left flank, and attacked our forage train, which is nearly in our rear. Those in our rear are cavalry; those in front, infantry and cavalry. Those in front I shall attack, and hope to capture to-morrow. Send a dispatch to General Wheeler or General Bragg that, from all the information I can get, the Federals are not falling back. The last news from Gallatin is that the trains to Louisville had soldiers to meet Morgans com- mand, who were reported to have crossed the Cumberland at Galusborough, bnt, find- ing the real condition of things, retnrned by rail to Nashville. I am pretty certain that there is no probability, or I may say possibility, of their retreat. I am, general, very respectfully, your obedient servant, B. W. DUKE, 6olonei, Commanding. General JOSEPH B. JOHNSTON. P. S.As I am not advised of General Wheelers whereabouts, I have not been able to send this informaticrn to him Page 152 152 KY., MID. AND E. TENN., N. ALA., AND SW. VA. LOHAP. XXXV. MARCH 19, 1863.Skirmish near College Grove, Teun. Report of Brig. Gen. John A. Wharton, C. S. Army. HEADQUARTERS WHARTONS CAVALRY, Unionville, ]Jfarch 19, 1863.-9 p. m. GENERAL: Your letter of yesterday has just been received. I have been pressing them for several days, but can discover nothing to induce me to believe they are evacuating Murfreesborough. They are still encamped at tbe junction of this and College Grove pike, and yesterday my men engaged them 1~ miles this side of Salem. To-day a body of 250 picked men from this command, supported by Roddey, drove the enemy away from the new bridge they had constructed over Harpeth, near College Grove, and burned the bridge. The fight lasted several hours. Your orders relative to pressing the enemys pickets shall be carried out. Most respectfully, general, JNO. A. WHARTON, Brigadier- General. Maj. Gen. JOSEPH WHEELER, Commanding Cavalry Corps. MARCH 1930, 1863.The First and Second Divisions, Ninth Army Corps, transferred from Newport News, Va., to Kentucky. Itinerary of Ninth Army Corps for ]tfarch, 1863.* March 19, the First Division broke camp at Newport News, Va., and embarked on transports between that date and the 24th for Baltimore, where they took cars for Cincinnati, Ohio, arriving there 24th to 30th. The First Brigade proceeded to Bardstown, Ky.; the Second, to Camp Dick Robinson, Ky., and the Third, with the two batteries, to Lexing- ton, Ky. The Second Division embarked at Newport News, Va., 25th to 26th; proceeded to Baltimore, Md.; thence proceeded by rail to Lex- ington, Ky., via Harrisburg, Pa., to Columbus and Cincinnati, Ohio, crossing the Ohio River at Covington. The First Brigade, accompanied by Durells battery, left cars at Paris, Ky., and marched thence to Mount Sterling, Ky., where they encamped.. The Third Division left Newport News, Va., March 13 to 10, and proceeded by boat to Suffolk, Va. MARCH 20, 1863.Action at Vaughts Hill, near Milton, Teun. REPOI~TS. No. 1.Maj. Gen. William S. Rosecran~, U. S. Army. No. 2.Maj. Gen. Joseph J. Reynolds, U. S. Army, commanding Fifth Division, Four- teenth Army Corps. No. 3.Capt. Alexander A. Itlice, Assistant Adjutant-General, U. S. Army. No. 4.Col. Albert S. Hall, One hundred and fifth Ohio Infantry, commanding Second Brigade~ * From Record of Events,~ in return of the corps for March 31, 1863 Page 153 CHAP. XXXV.] ACTION AT VAUGHTS HILL, TENN. 153 No. 5.Col. Henry A. Hambright, Seventy-ninth Pennsylvania Infantry, command- ing Third Brigade, First ]Yivision. No. 6...-Col. Robert H. G. Minty, Fourth Michigan Cavalry, commanding First Cav- alry Brigade. No. 7.Brig. Gen. John H. Morgan, C. S. Army. No. 8.Capt. J. D. Kirkpatrick, Wards Ninth Tennessee Cavalry (Confederate). No. 1. Report of Maj. Gen. William S. Rosecrans, U. S. Army. MURFREESBOROUc~H, TENN., March 21, 18631 a. m. General Reynolds reports from Colonel Halls brigade, on a scout near Milton, on the road to Liberty, that he was attacked this morning by Morgans and Breckinridges cavalry, about eight or ten regiments. After a four hours fight he whipped and drove them, with a loss to us of 7 killed and 31 wounded, including 1 captain. The rebel loss was 30 or 40 killed, including 3 commissioned officers, 150 wounded, and 12 prisoners, including 3 commissioned officers. W. S. ROSECRANS, Major. General. Major-General HALLECK General.in-Chief. No. 2. Reports of Maj. Gen. Joseph J. Reynolds, U. S. Army, commanding Fifth Division, Fourteenth Army Corps. HDQES. FIFTH DIVISION, FOURTEENTH ARMY CORPS, March 20, [1863]1.45 p. m. CoLoNEL: A brigade from General Grangers command is about starting to re-enforce Colonel Hall. General Thomas is not in. Will you authorize the movement ~ Have just heard from Hall. He was in a good position, and holding the rebels off, but I fear they will greatly outnumber him. 1. J. REYNOLDS, Major- General. Lieutenant-Colonel [C.] GODDARD. I have only about 500 men in camp, whom I have ordered out with four pieces of artillery. HDQRS. FIFTH DIVISION, FOURTEENTH ARMY CORPS, March 20, 18632.15 p. m. COLONEL: About 12.30 p. m. a messenger arrived from Colonel Hall, saying that he was attacked at Milton, and threatened with being sur- rounded by a large force of cavalry, and requesting our mounted men. The mounted men are all out foraging. I sent a request to General Stanley for 1,000 cavalry, which were ordered from department head Page 154 lEi4 KY., MID. AND E. TENN., N. ALA., AND SW. VA. [CHAIX XXXV. quarters (General Stanley being out). General Granger offered to send Hambrights brigade, and I called to see General Thomas to authorize it, but found him out. It was authorized by department headquarters. i[ have only ubout 500 men in camp, and have sent them with four pieces of artillery to Halls aid. Messenger arrived half an hour since. Hall had moved to a good position, and was holding his own, but evi- dently outnumbered. Hall is said to be about 12 miles from here. J. J. REYNOLDS, Major- General. Lieut. Col. GEORGE E. FLYNT. HDQRS. FIFTH DIVISION, FOURTEENTH ARMY CORPS, March 20, 186311 p. m. COLONEL: Dr. [0. Q.] Herrick and Captain Blair have just returned from Milton. Hall is all right. He was surrounded by a superior force of cavalry and five pieces of artillery. He took a good position, fought them four hours, and drove them off handsomely. Our loss 7 killed and 31 wounded. Among the killed is Captain [A. C.] Van Buskirk, One hundred and twenty-third Illinois. Rebel loss 30 to 40 killed and 150 wounded; among the killed 3 commissioned officers. We have taken about a dozen prisoners, including 3 lieutenants. Our re-enforcements are all up, and Hall may give the rebels a punch to-morrow morning. Morgan, Wheeler, and Breckinridge were present. Very respectfully, J. J. REYNOLDS, Major- General. Lient. Col. GEORGE E. FLYNT. No. 3. Report of Capt. Alexander A. Rice, Assistant Adjutant-General, U~ S. Army. HDQRS. FIFTH DIVISION, FOURTEENTH ARMY CORPS, March 20, 1863. COLONEL: Colonel Hall has with him about 1,500 infantry and two pieces of artillery. Is 3 miles this side of Milton. Was attacked this morning in the rear. Says he has seen the enemy in large force both on his right and left, and thinks he is being surronuded. Says the enemy are all mounted, and asks for re-enforcements of cavalry. Gen- eral Reynolds called on General Stanley for 1,000 cavalry, and is now gone to find General Thomas, to get a brigade of infantry from General Grangers division, as Colonel Wilders brigade are all out. Strength of~ enemy not definitely known. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, ALEX. A. RICE, Captain and Assistant Adjutant-General. C. GODDARD, Lieutenant. Golonel and Assistant Adjutant- General Page 155 CHAr. xxxV.j ACTION Al1 ~AUGHT~S HILL, TENN. 155 No.4. Report of (Jot. Albert S. Hall, One hundred and fifth Ohio Infantry, com manding Second Brigade. IIDQRs. 2n BRIGADE, 5TH Divisio~, 14TH ARMY Coiirs, Murfreesborough, Tenn., lJfarch 22, 1803. SIR: Having completed the reconnaissance begun on the 18th in- stant, I hereby report the operations of my command. I left camp, with two days rations in the haversack and two on pack- mules, with the following force: One hundred and twenty-third Illinois Infantry, Col. James Monroe commanding, 18 officers and 313 enlisted men; Eightieth Illinois Infantry, Col. Thomas 0-. Allen commanding, 18 officers and 305 enlisted men; One hundred and first Indiana Infantry, Lieut. Col. Thomas Doan commanding, 19 officers and 353 enlisted men; One hundred and fifth Ohio, Lient. Col. William H. Tolles commanding, 18 officers and 245 enlisted men;, one section of the Nineteenth Indiana Battery, Capt. S. J. Harris commanding, and Company A of Stokes cavalry, Captain [Joseph H.] Blackburn commanding, giving me a total 8trength of infantry of a little over 1,300. My orders were to reconnoiter the enemy and strike him, if the opportunity offers. On the night of the 18th, I occupied Cainsville, taking 2 prisoners; making that night an unsuccessful effort to surprise a small rebel camp and failing by the mistake of a guide. Early the next- morning I took the Statesville road, finding the en- emys pickets; captured 2 of them. At Statesville my advance was met by a force of 150 or 200 rebel cavalry; a slight skirmish took place here, in which a sharpshooter from the One hundred and fifth Ohio mor- tally wounded one of [J. M.] Phillips rebel cavalry. The enemy retired slowly down Smiths Fork toward ProsperityChurch,on the pike. I followed very cautiously, skirmishing the ravines, and upon reaching the pike wounded 2 of Smiths ([Eighth] Tennessee) cavalry and cap- tured 1. Half a mile from this spot, down the valley toward Liberty, a regiment of rebel cavalry, re-enforced by those whom 1 had driven from Statesville, was in line of battle across the valley. A small cavalry picket was also seen on the pike toward Auburn. I rested my com- mand at Prosperity Church about two hours. Becoming entirely satisfied that a large rebel force, under Morgans command, was massed in the vicinity, and that I should be attacked by the next day at the farthest, I determined to choose my own ground for the engagement, and accordingly at dusk I moved my command to the high ground to-the rear of Auburn, bringing me 3 miles nearer Mur- freesborough, leaving the rebel regiment wholly unmolested, by skir- mishing my way to Auburn with 40 or 50 rebels, whom I found had occupied the place during the afternoon. Of this force I wounded 1 or 2, and they retired on the Woodbury road. That night the enemys pick- ets confronted mine on every road leading from my position, and a large force advanced in the night from toward Liberty and encamped in the vicinity of Prosperity Church. Knowing that the enemy largely out- numbered me, I determined to draw him as near Murfreesborough as possible, and to reach a fine position near Milton, 7 miles from my Auburn camp. I moved at light, and upon reaching the high ridge, 3 miles from Auburn, halted twenty minutes to fill canteens and view the enemys advance. He was 2 miles behind me, but showed himself in no great force. Making on this ridge some demonstrations which would indicate a purpose to stay there, I dropped suddenly down the slope towar Page 156 156 RY., MID. AND fl. 1~ENN., N. ALA., AND SW. VA. [CHAP. XXXV. Milton, and passed 3k miles of open, level country at a quick but steady step, occupying one hour, bringing me through Milton with the head of my columu within 500 yards of the spot I desired to reach. Throwing two companies of the One hundred and twenty-third Illinois and half of Blackburus company of cavalry into the edge of the town as skir- mishers, and posting lookouts on my flanks and rear, I put a Napoleon into position, stacked arms, and awaited the enemys pleasure. In twenty minutes his advance was visible in the angle of the pike, be- yond Milton, about 1,500 yards away, and was promptly scattered by a shell from Harris. A few minutes later the enemy advanced, dis- mounted, and attacked my skirmishers in the village. By this time a large force was visible, and two heavy columns began passing, one to my right and one to my left, on the gallop. At this moment 1 started three messengers for the general, to apprise him of my whereabouts and to ask him for a re-enforcement of cavalry. Placing the Eightieth Illi- nois into position to take care of my right, and the One hundred and first Indiana my left, I drew my skirmishers gently back, re-enforcing them with three more companies of the One hundred and twenty-third Illinois, so as to cover the center, and set Harris to shelling each col- umn as it passed, supporting his guns by the One hundred and fifth Ohio. As the heavy flank movements of the enemy made it necessary, I drew the whole command slowly back, converging my flank regiments to a line with my center along the top of the hillocl~, where I had de- termined to make a stand. The heavy column passing to my left was two or three times cut in two by Harris, but from the nature of the ground was enabled to pass out of range. The column on my right was forced to come nearer and run the terrible gauntlet of Harris fire, which killed and wounded them at every shot, and fin ally ran against a volley from the Eightieth Illinois, which killed and wounded some 30 men and 8 horses, and but for an unwarrantable delay on the part of the officer commanding the Eightieth Illinois, iu giving his men orders to fire, would have been substantially destroyed. As it was, the terrible rak ing given it by the artillery, and the volley from the Eightieth Illinois which it finally received, quite effectually extinguished its valor and boldness, so that a thin line of skirmishers and part of Blackburns little company was all that was necessary to control them thereafter. Each of my regiments came into position on the crest, just as I directed, without confusion or delay; but there was no time to spare on my left. Here the enemy dismounted, and advanced with all the pre- cision, boldness, and rapidity of infantry drill. The blow struck the One hundred and first Indiana and the left wing of the One hundred and twenty-third Illinois. The first attack was at once repelled; but the enemy, quickly re-enforcing his line of skirmishers, renewed it with double force and determination, rapidly advancing his main line. At this moment some confusion was manifest in the One hundred and first Indiana, but the gallant example set the men by their field, line, and staff officers, by the unflinching One hundred and twenty-third Illi- nois, and the opportune arrival from the right of five companies of the Eightieth Illinois and one of Harris guns, enabled me to check the dis- order. Every man returned to his post and fought to the last. The enemy gained no advantage; the advance he made by it cost him dearly. The enemy now opened on my center with four pieces of artillery, and vigorously attacked my rear, but was repulsed at the rear by Captain [W. S.] Crowell, with one company of the One hundred and fifth Ohio, and Captain Blackburns company, dismounted. The enemys artillery assisted in driving the enemy from my rear. The engagement wa~ no Page 157 Cni~. XXXV.] ACTION AT VAUGHTS HILL, TEKN. 157 general. My line encircling the hillock, inclosing us within S acres of space, was entirely surrounded by the enemy, and every reachable spot was showered with shot, shell, grape, and canister. Meantime Harris was not idle; with one gun on the crest, he swung it as on a pivot, and swept them in every direction, and Lieutenant [W. P.] Stackhouse, with the other gun on the pike, swept everything within his range. Artillery was never better worked. Again and again the enemy tried to break our devoted circle, and continued the unequal contest upon me steadily from 11.30 a. m. till 2.15 p. in., when, seeing it was of no avail, he drew off his cavalry to my front, leaving but a small force on my flanks; and, desisting from the attack with small- arms, continued to play his artillery till 4.30 p. m, when he finally withdrew it also. He, however, continued to so far occupy the ground outside of my line as to prevent me from taking his slightly wounded or the arms left by him. He collected the most of them and took away all the men, except those within rifle range of my lines that were not dead or mortally wounded. The enemy left upon the field, of men and officers, 63, including 4 captains and 2 lieutenants, dead or mortally wounded; and from an interview with four surgeons, left by the enemy, I learned that the wounded carried away cannot be less than 300, among whom were many officers, including General Morgan, slightly wounded in the arm; Colonel [J. W.] Grigsby, arm broken; Lieutenant-Colonel [Thomas W.] Napier, thigh broken; Lieutenant-Colonel [Th M.] Martin, flesh-wound in the back, and many officers of lower rank. 1 am myself satisfied, from a personal examination of the ground, that the enemys loss is not less than 400. To this could easily have been added a large number of prisoners if my cavalry re-enforcements had reached me in due time. Colonel Minty, of the Fourth Michigan, commanding cavalry re-en- forceinents, reached me about 7 p. in., at dark, and after the enemy had wholly left. I am most credibly informed that Colonel Minty received his order to re-enforce me at about 1 p in., and I submit to the inquiry of my superior officers why it should take Colonel Minty six hours to make the distance of 13 miles over one of the best roads in Tennessee. The gallant Colonel ilambright, with his brigade of infantry, reached me within thirty minutes after the cavalry had reported. I have brought into camp fifty-three stand of arms, taken from the enemy, 10 prisoners, and 8 horses. The wounded and prisoners who fell into our hands represent nine regiments, including three of mounted infantry, and there were at least three regiments of the enemy held in reserve during the entire engagement, 1 mile in front. The total force of the enemy could not have been less than 3,500. The surgeons de- clined to disclose the force, and one wounded officer placed it at 4,000. Among the enemys dead was a mulatto, killed on the advance line, fully uniformed and equipped. My loss is as follows: Killed, 1 captain and 5 enlisted men; wounded, 1 lieutenant and 41 enlisted men; pris- oner, 1 enlisted man; missing, 7 enlisted men. Of the number wounded but few are serious, and many will not need hospital treatment. The missing were all inside the lines when the en- gagement began. They undoubtedly ran away to the rear, and are either captured or are in the woods on the way to this camp. The detailed reports of regimental commanders are forwarded here- with, together with a plat of the route passed over and of the field of battle.* P1~t omitted ~s unimportant Page 158 158 KY., MID. AND E. TENK., N. ALA,, AND SW. VA. [CHAP. XXXV. I dIrected the citizens to bury the rebel dead and brought my own into camp. The hard fighting of the day was done by the One hundred and first Indiana and the One hundred and twenty-third Illinois, but I feel pro- foundly thankful for the prompt and gallant co-operation which every officer of the command gave me, and too much praise cannot be given to the men of the entire command for their soldierly conduct. Capt. W. 11. Tuttle, of the One hundred and fifth Ohio, my acting assistant adju- tant- general, and Lient. Sanford Fortner, of the One hundred and first Indiana, my aide-de-camp, rendered me the most valuable assistance on every part of the field. Captain Blackburn, of the First Middle Ten- nessee Cavalry, deserves especial praise for his daring and efficient con- duct during the scout and engagement. I desire also to make especial mention of Private J. H. Blackburn, Company A, First Middle Tennes- see Cavalry, for the prompt and intelligent execution of my orders in bearit~ my dispatch from the point of attack to division headquarters, at Muifreesborough, and also of Private Edward Potter, Company E, One hundred and fifth Ohio, for the faithful and prompt management of my train of pack-mules, so placing them that not an animal was lost, and for his valuable assistance as an orderly on the field. I have the honor to be, very truly, your obedient servant, A. S. HALL, Golonel Commanding Second Brigade Capt. ALEXANDER A. RICE, Assistant Adjutant- General, Ji~/th Division. No. 5. Report of Col. Henry A. Hambright, Seventy.ninth Thnnsylvania Infantry, commanding Third Brigade, First Division. HEADQUARTERS THIRD BRIGADE, ]liareh 22, 1863. Sin: I have the honor to report, for the information of the general commanding, that, in compliance with orders received from division headquarters, at 1 p. m. on the 20th instant, I placed my command in readiness to move immediately, provided with two days rations and all reserve ammunition. At 2 p. m. orders were received to report to Brigadier-General Rey- nolds, commanding Fifth Division, Fourteenth Army Corps, and from. him I received orders to move, as rapidly as possible, to re-enforce Colonel Hall, commanding a brigade, who had been attacked at Mil ton, 15 miles distant, and was reported as being surrounded by the enemy and out of ammunition. In accordance with these instructions, I moved forward with my command on the [Cainsville] pike at 2.30 p. m. Forded Stones River at a point near the pike, which occasioned a delay of about an hour, and, pushing rapid]y forward, arrived at the point desIgnated at 8 oclock p. m. After reporting to Colonel Hall, and being informed that our cavalry were unable to discover any traces of an enemy, I selected a position and bivouacked my command for the night, after throwing out proper pickets and taking necessary precautions against surprise. On the morning of the 21st, a cavalry reconnaissar[ce w~s otdetezl Page 159 CHAP. XXXV.] ACTION AT VAUGHTS HILL, TENN. 159 They scoured the country around as far as Liberty, and reported no enemy in sight. From information received from citizens and others, It was convinced that the enemy had been warned of our approach, and, not wishing to renew the fight, had fallen back. Deeming it unnecessary to remain longer at that point, I ordered Colonel Hall, after taking care of his own killed and wounded, and the killed, wounded, and prisoners of the enemy, to take the advance and return to Murfreesborough. I moved next with my command, the cavalry protecting the rear. I have no casualties to report in my brigade. I arrived in camp at S p.m. Tam, sir,very respectfully, your obedient servant, H. A. HAMBRIGHT, Colonel Seventy-ninth Pennsylvania Volunteers, Commanding. Captain [WILBERFORCE] KEVIN, Assistant Adjutant- General, First Division. No. 6. Report of Col. Robert H. G. ]Jiliinty, Fourth lJiichigan Cavalry, command. ing First ~Javalry Brigade. CAMP NEAR MURFREESBOROUGH, March 21, 1863. SIR: In obedience to orders received from the major-general coin- manding cavalry, I marched with the First and Second Brigades at about 2.30 p. m. yesterday for Milton, for the purpose of assisting Colonel Hall, commanding a brigade of infantry, who was supposed to be sur- rounded by Morgans force. I moved at the trot, and arrived at Milton a little after 6 p. m. I found that Colonel Hall had repulsed the enemy, who had retreated at 4 p. m. I immediately moved to the front, and scouted the country thoroughly for a couple of miles, without finding auy trace of the enemy. I biv- ouacked near the infantry, and covered them in all directions by strong pickets. This morning Colonel Hall was full of the idea of surrounding and capturing the enemys force, which he supposed was at Cainsville, States- yule, Auburn, Prosperity Church, Liberty, or Snow Hill. I declined moving until I could gain definite information of the direction of their retreat, and to that end sent out the following scouts: Colonel Long, with the Fourth Ohio, to Cainsville; Lieutenant-Colonel Sipes, with the Seventh Pennsylvania, to Statesville; Lieutenant-Colonel Murray, with the Third Ohio, to and beyond Auburn, and Captain Tolton, with the Fourth Michigan, to take position at the junction of the Liberty and Las Qasas pikes, to protect Colonel Murrays rear. The enemy had not been seen iu Cainsyille or Statesville for some days. At Auburn, Lieutenant-Colonel Murray found a scouting party of 6 men; pursued them for a con~le of miles without result. He learned that Morgan had fallen back to snow Hill, leavlug Breckinridges bat- talion as an outlying picket at their old camp, this side of Liberty. Colonel Murray brought in 2 prisoners, a private of Dukes regiment, whose horse had broken down, and 1 of [R. M.] Ganos regiment, found at a house, wounded Page 160 160 KY., MID. AND E. TENN., N. ALA., AND SW. VA. [CHAP. XXXV. The force which attacked Colonel Hall was: Dukes regiment - - -. [Adam R.] Johnsons regiment Ganos regiment Breckinridges battalion (say). Smiths and two other regiments from Whartons brigade, most likely the Fourteenth Alabama [Battalion], under Lieutenant-Colonel Malone, and [John R.] Davis Tennessee Battalion, say 350 350 250 350 250 1,050 Total 2,250 Two brass pieces (one rifled and one howitzer) and two small mount- ain howitzers The infantry left lVIilton for Murfreesborough at 12 m. My scouts returned at about 2 p. in., when 1 had horses fed and followed the infantry, arriving in camp at about 8 p. m. I am, respectfully, your obedient servant, ZROBT. II. G. MINTY, Colonel, Commanding Brigade. Captain SINCLAIR, Assistant Adjutant- General, Cavalry. No. 7. Report of Brig. Gen. John 11. ]Jiliorgan, C. S. Army. LIBERTY, March 21, 1863. We attacked the enemy at Milton on yesterday morning; drove them 2 miles. They were largely re-enforced, and maintained their position. The fight lasted six hours. Our loss heavy in officers. The Federals are reported advancing upon ns again to-day. If they should, will fight them at this point. Will send a regiment to Lebanon to-day if enemy do not advance. Colonel [R. M.] Martin, who has just returned from the Murfreesbor- ough and Nashville pike, reports that the Federals are not falling back. Respectfully, Major-General WHEELER. JOHN II. MORGAN, Brigadier- General. No. 8. Report of Capt. J. D. Kirkpatrick, Wards Ninth Tennessee Cavalry (Confederate). AUBURN, March 20, 1863. We have had rather a warm time to-day. Our loss is great; do not know how much yet; perhaps 125 killed and wounded. Do not know the enemys loss. They were re-enforced with a large force, and we had to fall back. They are not pursuing ns. Yours, very respectfully, J. D. KIRKPATRICK, Captain, Commanding Wards Regiment. Colonel [D. II.] SMITH. This is a Kentucky regiment, and a large portion of it has returned to that State, and is now in Howard and Crittenden Counties Page 161 161 CHAP. XX~VJ SKIRMISH NEAR TRIUNE, TENN. MARCH 21, 1863.Skirmish at Salem, Tenn. Report of Brig. Gen. Jefferson 0. Davis, U. S. Army. IIDQRS. FIRST DIVISION, TWENTIETH ARMY CORPS, Salem, Teun., ]Iiarch 21, 18638 a. m. COLONEL: Since my last, at sunrise, considerable skirmishing has been kept up on my left. It resulted in our cavalry pickets being driven in on the Middleton road. The enemys cavalry were for a short time in my rear, on the Salem pike. They have now, however, retired in the direction of Middleton; how far, I cant say. I hear artil- lery in that direction, which is evidently the enemy. Colonel Cook has not yet reported a word, though strictly ordered to do so frequently. I think a strong reconnaissance should be made on the Middleton road, which runs up the river. All quiet in the direction of Versailles and right of that road. Yours, truly, JEF. C. DAVIS, Brigadier- General, Commanding. Colonel [G. P.] THRUSTON, Chief of Staff, Twentieth Army Corps. MARCH 21, 1863.Skirmish near Triune, Tenn. Reports of Brig. Gen. John A. Wharton, 0. 5. ~ HEADQUARTERS WHARTONS CAVALRY, Unionville, March 21,, 18638.30 a. m. GENERAL: Your dispatch, with copy of General Wheelers, has been received. Yesterday morning I sent out Captain Gordon, with 40 men, to de- velop the movements and designs of the enemy. I have just received the accompanying dispatch from him.* He is still out and will report again soon. I have sent two regiments to feel the enemy at the forks of the roads. I have sent 2 men to La Vergue and 12 to capture cou- riers plying between Murfreesborollgh and Triune. They travel the road that leads off from the end of the Wilkinson pike; and not the old dirt road, as they ought. Please send me late papers. I send Cincinnati Commercial of the 16th instant. Most respectfully, general, your obedient servant, JNO. A. WHARTON, Brigadier- General. Lient. Gen. LEONIDAS POLK, Commanding at Shelbyville. ADDENDA. THREE AND A HALF MILES FROM MURFREESBOROUGH, March 21, 1863. (Received Shelbyville, March 21, 1863.) We have just driven in th& pickets, but find them too strongly posted pn Stones River to be driven any farther. JOS. WHEELER. General POLK. Not found~ 11 R UVOL I~III, PT Page 162 162 KY., MID. AND E. TENN., N. ALA., AND SW. VA. [CHAP. XXXV. IIEADQTJARTERS WHARTONS CAVALRY, Unionville, March 21, 18638 p. m. GENERAL: The enemy were driven to within 1 mile or less of Triune. Their outpost was of cavalry, 3~ miles this side of Triune. They were driven from their reserve camp, chased by Company C, of Texas Ran- gers, and two companies of Third Confederate, to their infantry. Steed- mans division is at Triune, on the north side of town. They were drawn up in battle line, and presented too strong a front for a small cavalry command. There is no encampment of the enemy south of Triune. Citizens still report that the enemy are leaving Murfreesbor- ough; but we get it all second and third handed, and cannot by any means be deemed reliable. The couriers ply between Franklin, Triune, and Murfreesborough by a road which is a continuance of the Wilker- son pike. They have a guard of 12 men. I have sent a party to that road to-night, and hope to obtain dispatches and information. I am much obliged to you for the complimentary order in reference to Lieutenant Smith and party; it will do good. Most respectfully, general, your obedient servant, JINO. A. WHABTOiST, Brigadier-General. Lieut. Gen. LEONIDAS POLK, Commanding, ct-c. 1~IARCH 22, 1 863.~-Capture of Mount Sterling, Ky. REPORTS. No. 1.Brig. Gen. Qainey A. Gilimore, U. S. Army. No. 2.Col. R. S. Cluke, Eighth Kentucky Cavalry (Confederate). No. 1. Reports of Brig. Gem. Quincy A. Gillmore, U. S. Army. LEXINGTON, Kr., March 23, 186310.35 a. m. GENERAL: Your information from the general is substantially correct. General Carter is at Danville, where he will concentrate his infantry. NVolford is iii front of him. I will give him a mounted force as fast as I can concentrate it. Colonel [C. J.] Walker drove Cluke from llazle Green on the 21st, capturing 60 men. A portion of Clukes force re~ turned to Mount Sterling and captured 100 men left there by Colonel Walker as a guard, which remained there in disobedience to my orders, which were to come to Winchester, where I had a force. Walker re- ports [Humphrey] Marshall with 1,800 near Salyersville. Q. A. GILLM ORE, Brigadier- General. Major-General [II. G.] WRIGHT, 6~ommanding. HEADQUARTERS DISTRICT OF CENTRAL KENIUCKY, Lexington, K11., March 23, 1863. SIR: I telegraphed you this morning what reliable information I had from the front, and also the recent news from Mount Sterling. The history of that affair may be briefly stated as follows-: On the 14th instant, knowing that Cluke was at ilazie G~eeu with 80 Page 163 CHAP. XXXV.) CAPTURE OF MOUNT STERLING, KY. 163 or 900 men, I organized two expeditions against him, namely: Colonel Walkers command from Mount Sterling, comprising two battalions of the Tenth Kentucky Cavalry and one of the Second Ohio, and one of the Fourteenth Kentucky, all small, and aggregating some 600 effective men, and a detachment from Richmond, under Lieutenant-Colonel Wil- son, Forty-fourth Ohio Volunteer Infantry, of from 400 to 600 mounted infantry, both to move on ilazie Green, and be under command of Colo- nel Walker. Lieutenant-Colonel Wilson was ordered to report to Colonel Walker at Mount Sterling for detailed instructions, and to secure concert of action. The expeditions started in due time and in good condition. On the night of the 20th, 1 received a dispatch from Colonel Walker, at llazle Green, dated the 19th, that he had the rebels completely hemmed in, and that they had no other chance of getting out unless by way of Lexington. This dispatch came through Qaptain Ratcliffe, Tenth Kentucky Cavalry, commanding Colonel Walkers ineffectives, left at Mount Sterling. I at once moved forward the Seventh Ohio Cav- alry to Winchester, and sent instructions ~ Captain Rateliffe to that eft~ct, and that he should keep his scouts well to the front in the di- rection of llazle Green, and to keep his entire command ready to move to ~ as he was not strong enough to fight ~ Captain Rateliffe did not come to Winchester as directed, but on the 22d sent a request to Colonel Garrard at Winchester for re-enforcements, and said he could hold the enemy in check until they arrived. Colonel Garrard had no instructions to move beyond Winchester, but did so, arriving at Mount Sterling too late to be of any use. Captain Rateliffes entire squad of near 200 men have been either captured or dispersed, and a portion of the town burned. So much for disobedience of orders. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, Q. A. G1LLMORE, Brigadier-General, Commanding. Maj. Gen. HORATIO G. WRIGHT, Commanding Department of the Ohio. P. S.I have reliable information that Captain Rateliffe could have saved his command, as he was strongly posted in the court-house, had not the citizens importuned him to surrender to save the town. ADDENDA. GENERAL ORDERS, HDQR$. DEPARTMENT OF THE OHIO, No. 30. f Cincinnati, Ohio, March 27, 1863. Capt. W. D. Ratcliffe, Company E, Tenth Regiment Kentucky Cay. alry, for his disgraceful surrender of Mount Sterling, is, subject to the approval of the President, dishonorably dismissed from the military service of the United States. The manner in which his command was paroled being entirely irregular, and in direct violation of General Orders, No. 49, from the War Department, no duplicates being ex- changed for the men, and other essentials being wanting, the parole is declared void, and the officers and men thus paroled will report at these headquarters for duty. The railroad companies and steamboats will furnish transportation. By command of Major-General Burnside: LEWIS RICHMOND, Assistant Adjutant- General Page 164 164 KY., MID. AND E. TENN., N. ALA., AND SW. VA. [CHAP. XXXV. GENERAL ORDEKS,~ IIDQRS. DEPARTMENT OF THE OHIO, No. 55. Cincinnati, Ohio, April 30, 1863. Capt. W. D. Rateliffe, Tenth Kentucky Volunteer Cavalry, having been honorably acquitted, by the court of inquiry, from the charges preferred against him for his surrender of Mount Sterling, he is cleared from all imputations upon his character as a soldier, and will report for duty to the commanding officer of his regiment. General Orders, No. 30, current series, from these headquarters, is hereby revoked. By command of Major-General Burnside: LEWIS RICHMOND, Assistant Adjutant. General. No. 2. Report of Col. R. S. Cluke, Eighth Kentucky Cavalry (Confederate). Ky Ma RocKvILI~, ROWAN COUNTY, ., rch 24, 1863. DEAR SIR: I reached the above place last evening, just from Mount Sterling. On the morning of the 21st, I moved with my command in the direction of Mount Sterling, where I learned there were between 300 and 400 of the enemy, guarding a large supply of commissary and quar- termasters stores, together with tbe good citizens of that place, my object being to surprise and capture the place. After crossing Licking River, I found the roads in such a condition that it was almost impos- sible to move my artillery. I placed three companies to assist and guard it, with directions to move on without delay to Mount Sterling. I then moved on with my command to Mount Sterling, which place I readied about daylight the next morning, where I found the enemy quartered in the court-house and the adjoining buildings. I immediately demanded a surrender of the place, which request they refused to com- ply with. I then gave them twenty minutes to remove the women and children from town. That they refused to do also, and fired upon the flag of ti-uce from the court-house and several other buildings immedi- ately around the court-house. My artillery not coming up in time, I was compelled to fire the town to dislodge the enemy. After several houses had been burned, they surrendered the place; but before surren- dering they kept up a continual fire from the buildings npon my men, who were protected by the fences, stables, and outbuildings around the town. I paroled 287 privates (Fourteenth Kentucky Cavalry) and 14 officersI paroled them to report to you withiw thirty days, which I herewith send youbesides capturing between 450 and 500 horses and mules; 75 wagons loaded with arms, ammunition, and commissary sPires, which I destroyed by burning; several buildings containing arms, ammunition, commissary stores, saddles, and bridles were also burned. The property destroyed, belonging to the enemy, I think will reach $500,000. My loss was I man, belonging to Colonel [H. G.] Stoners battalion, killed; Captain [H. C.] Terrill, wounded through the hip; Captain [V. M.] Pendleton (ball entered his left arm and lodged near the back bone) I am afraid, mortally wounded; Lieutenant [G. W.] Maupin, of Captain Terrills company, wounded in the groin, and Orderly Scrgt. James Y. Scott, of Company I (my regiment), wounded in the thigh. The enemys loss was 10 killed and some 8 or 10 burned to death in the houses. All of the Yankees were shot through the head, that being the onlyportion of their person they would expose Page 165 CHAP. XXXV.] PEGRAMS EXPEDITION INTO KENTUCKY. 165 I occupied the town about six hours, when my scouts reported a large force advancing from Winchester. I immediately moved in the direction of Owensville. I had not proceeded more than 5 miles when they made their appearance some 2 miles in my rear, numbering about 2,500 men, with several pieces of artillery. They would not advance upon me, and I quietly moved on to Owensyille without pursuit, and from thence to the above place. When I left West Liberty for Mount Sterling, the en- emy, numbering 1,300 men, with four pieces of artillery, were at Hazle Green, in pursuit of my force. They reported and dispatched a courier to Mount Sterling, stating they had me completely surrounded; but I surprised them by making my appearance where I was not expected. General Marshall is in 40 miles of this place, moving on with 1,600 cavalry. He lost his artillery the other night. The guard placed over it went to sleep, and some Home Guards slipped in on him and carried off the gun, leaving the carriage and caisson. Cal. [Calvin C. Morgan] is trying to effect an exchange between Capt. W. D. iRatcliffe and Charlton [Charlton H. Morgan], but we have not received an answer as yet. is I send you 3 prisoners, which you will take charge of nutil you hear from me againone by the name of Voris; charge, desertion; Captain McKee, who has persecuted every person in Bath, Montgomery, and Clark Counties, and is provost-marshal; and Thomas, who is a acted as a spy. My command is elegantly mounted and clothed; ii~ fact, in better condition than they ever have been. If your command was here, you could clean the State of every Yankee. I am, general, very respectfully, your obedient servant, R. S. CLUKE, Colonel, Commanding. General JOHN H. MORGAN. MARCH 22APRIL 1, 1863.Pegrams Expedition into Kentucky. SUMMARV 013 TIELE PRINCIPAL EVENTS. March 2426, 1863.Skirmishes at Danville, Ky. 28,1863.Skirmishes at Danville and Hickmans Bridge, Ky. 30,1863.Action at Dnttons Hill, near Somerset, Ky. REPORTS. No. l.Maj. Gen. Ambrose E. Bnrnside, U. S. Army, commanding Department of the Ohio. No. 2.Maj. Gen. Quincy A. Gillmore, U. S. Army, commanding District of Central Kentucky. No. 3.Brig. Gen. Mahion D. Manson, U. S. Army. No. 4.Brig. Gen. John Pegram, C. S. Army, commanding expedition. No. 5.Col. J. S. Scott, First Louisiana Cavalry. No. 1. Reports of Maj. Gen. Ambrose II. Burnside, U. S. Army, commanding Department of the Ohio. HEADQUARTERS, (incinnati, Ohio, March 25, 18633.30 p. m. The enemy took possession of Danville yesterday, our troops retreat- ing to this side of the Kentucky River, holding Hickmans Bridge Page 166 166 KY., MJD. AND E. TENN., N. ALA., AND SW. VA. [CHAP. XXXV. Much to my disappointment, none of my corps have yet arrived. It is not known definitely whether this movement of the enemy is a raid or an invasion. I hope we will find no difficulty in holding the line of the Kentucky River, and as far in front of Louisville as Lebanon, until the arrival of re-enforcements, when we will try to drive them back. The troops in this department were necessarily very much scattered, but I shall concentrate them as soon as we get troops enough. I have re- quested reports from the Governors of the States as to the forces in pro- cess of organization. (Jan I have authority to order out such of them as are ready for the field I Would it not be well to send all the prison- ers held in this department to the Eastern force I It will render avail- able in the field a considerable force that is now on guard duty. Has anything been done toward the organization of the 20,000 Kentucky troops allowed by law of Congress I A. E. BURNSIDE, ]Jliajor- General. Maj. Gen. H. W. HALLECK, General-in-Chief HEADQUARTERS, Cincinnati, Ohio, March 29, 18637.15 p. m. Our forces, under command of General Gillmore, attacked the enemy yesterday, and drove them from in front of Hickmans Bridge and across Duck River, in the direction of Crab Orchard. General ~ cavalry is now in pursuit. I will telegraph more fully during the day. A. E. BUIRNSIDE, Major- General. Maj. Gen. II. W. HALLEcK, General-in- Chief. CINCINNATI, Onio, March 30, 186310.30 p. m. Our advance has driven all the enemy that is south of the Kentucky River to Somerset, and I hope to drive them out of Eastern Kentucky soon. You can scarcely realize how much we need the other division of the Ninth Corps. I have offered to send troops to Cox, on the Kana- wha, if it is necessary. Although it is out of my department, I will help him all I can. I hope you will be able to send the other division very soon, which will, I think, enable me to make an important move, which I will explain by letter. A. E. BUIRNSIDE, Major- General. Maj. Gen. II. W. HALLECK, General-in- Chief. LOUISVILLE, Ky., April 1, 18632.10 p. m. After concentrating a portion of General Gillmores force at Hick- mans Bridge, and a portion of General Boyle~s at Lebanon, I ordered them to make a simultaneous attack on Saturday morning upon Pegrams command, which was at Danville and in that neighborhood, witll a view to capturing his force or driving them over the Cumberland. General Gillmore crossed the Kentucky, and drove that portion of the enemy in front of Hickmans Bridge across Duck River, they burning the bridge to prevent pursuit. On the same day a portion of General Man- sons force from Lebanon took Danville, the remainder moving down through Hustonville to co-operate with General Gillmore. The enem Page 167 Cn& r. XXX~TJ PEGRAM~S EXPEDITION INTO KENTUCKY. 167 retreated in the direction of Somerset, General Gilimore pursuing with bis cavalry. After frequent skirmishes, they made a stand at Somerset, where General Gilimore attacked them successfully, tlie details of which attack are explained by the following dispatch: SOMERSET, Ky., March 319 p. m. I attacked the enemy yesterday in strong post of his own selection, defended by six cannon, near this town; fought him for five hours, driving him from one position to another, and finally stormed his position. Whipued him handsomely, ~nd drove him in confusion toward the river. His loss is over 300 in killed, wounded, and prisoners. The enemy outnumbered us nearly two to one, and were commanded by Pegram in person. Night stopped pursnit, which will be resumed in the morning. We captured two stand of colors. Our loss in killed, wounded, and missing will not exceed 30. Scotts famous rebel regiment was cut off from the rest and scattered. GILLMOIIE, Briqadier- General. General Manson is in pursuit of portion of the force which became separated from the main body, and will probably overtake them at Bnrkesville, on the Cumberland River. It will be seen by this that the entire rebel force has been driven out of Central Kentucky, and much of their plunder recaptured. Their reported force has been greatly exaggerated, as well as the amount of plunder taken by them. I have this moment received this second [dispatch] from General Gillmore, dated this morning, from Stigalls Ferry, on the Cumberland River: STIGALLS FERRY, April 1. I underrated enemys force in my first report of yesterdays fight. They have over 2,600 men, outnumbering us more than two to one. During the night their troops re- crossed the Cumberland River in three pluces. We have retaken between 300 and 400 cattle. My infantry is not yet up, and will be halted. Pegrams loss will not fall short of 500 men. I will be in Lexington to-morrow. GILLMORE. The alacrity with which the troops were concentrated, and the vigor and gallantry of their attacks, are highly commendable. A. E. BURNSIDE, ]JIajor- General, Commanding. Maj. Gen. II. W. HALLECK, General-in-Chief. LEXINGTON, Ky., April 3,18632.35 p. m. The number of prisoners taken by Gilimore will exceed 500. A. E. BURNSIDE, Major- General. Major.General HALLECK, General-in. Chief. No. 2. Report of Maj. Gen. Quincy A. Gillmore, U. S. Army, commanding Dis trict of Central Kentucky. HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF SOUTH CAROLINA, Hilton Head, S. C., November 1, 1865. SIR: I have the honor to submit, for record in the War Department, the following report of the battle of Somerset, Ky., March 30, 1863, be- tween the forces under my command and the enemy under General Pegram: My entire strength was 1,250 men, all mounted, and six pieces of field artillery, of which four were mountain howitzers, and of no use to us Page 168 168 KY., MID. AND E. TENN., N. ALA., AND SW. VA. [CHAP. XXXV. Pegrams force numbered about 2,600 men, also mounted, and six pieces of artillery. The data for this report are all derived from official reports and other documents in my possession. I had received information, through spies, as early as March 18, that the enemy was concentrating a mounted force in Wayne County, van- ously estimated at from 3,000 to 57000 men. On the 21st, Colonel Wolford, First Kentucky Cavalry, who held the front, and whose scouts were in Pulaski and Wayne Counties, tele- graphed me from Stanford as follows: The rebels, under Scott, numbering 3,500 men, are at Stigalls Ferry, ready to cross the Cumberland River near Somerset. There is no mistake in this. My scouts were not deceived. Also that the enemy had seven pieces of artillery. I had at that time but 1,000 effective men south of the Kentucky River, of which only 600 were mounted. There were extensive hospitals and quite a large amount of valuable stores at Danville to be protected. I at once ordered re-enforcements to the front, and sent Brigadier- General Carter forward to take command, with verbal instructions to send the sick and the stores bacK from Danville if he thought the place could not be securely held by him. He was to make Dicks River his line of defense, while securiiig the safety of the public property by trans- ferring it to the north side of the Kentucky River. The enemy, under General Pegram, crossed the Cumberland River March 2 L and 22, drove in our pickets to within 3 miles of Stanford, and were reported by Colonel Wolfords scouts to comprise 7,000 cavalry and three regiments of infantry. They advanced in two principal columns, one on the Waynesburg and the other on the Crab Orchard road. On the 24th, General Carter telegraphed to me from Danville that the enemy was trying to flank him, and that he was falling back to Dicks River. There had been some brisk skirmishing. At that time he had a train of 150 wagons to protect, which he brought safely to the north side of the Kentucky River, over Hickmans Bridge. I re-enforced him at this place on the 25th with 600 mounted inflintry, under Colonel Run- kle, Forty-fifth Ohio Volunteer Infantry, who came from Richmond by way of Lancaster and Camp Dick Robinson. The most trustworthy information which we had at that time fixed the strength of Pegrams command at 3,500 men (all mounted) and six pieces of artillery. At this juncture the rebel Colonel Cluke was roving about in the vicinity of Mount Sterling with about 750 men, and General Hum. phrey Marshall was near Hazel Green with 1,500 men, both commands being mounted. To oppose these mounted forces, numbering, iu the aggregate, nearly 6,000 men, I had 2,300 mounted men, many of them very badly mounted, too. Some of the worn-out horses were hastily replaced by better ones, and, on March 27, I telegraphed to department headquarters at Cincinnati, requesting authority to leave Lexington, which was the headquarters of my district (Central Kentucky), with a view of taking comman(l in person of the troops on the Kentucky River, and forcing Pegram to fight or retreat before he could form a junction with Cluke. I received the following reply: CINcINNATI, Onro, March 27, 1863. Briaadier-General GILLMORE: Move Carters force across the Kentucky River to-night or early to-morrow morning, and tell him th~t he must attack the enemy vigorously. We ought to capture or dis- perse the whole of Pegrams force. 1 have ordered Boyle to concentrate a force at Lebanon, to co-operate with you, and have also ordered him to have a force at Leb Page 169 CHAP. XXXV:] PEGRAMS EXPEDITION INTO KENTUCKY. 169 non and Bardstown Junction, to prevent the enemy from crossing Salt River. I ex- pect you to capture or break up the entire force. Order Walker to attack Marshall and Cluke with his forces, and such re-enforcements as you cau give him. Order both commands to attack vigorously. I have just issued an order dismissing the command- ing officers who surrendered at Mount Sterling. Look out for Fraukfort and Paris. You can take command of either column of attack, if you wish. A. E. BURNSIDE, Major-Gcneral, Commanding. On March 28, I telegraphed orders to General Carter, then at Hick- mans Bridge, to advance by way of Lancaster. I started, myself, on the same day, with a battalion of the Seventh Ohio Cavalry, and two iRodman rifles, to join him. Orders had previously been sent to Colonel Walker, Tenth Kentucky Cavalry, to operate as vigorously as possible a~gai nst General Humphrey Marshall and Colonel Cinke. At daybreak on the 30th, I overtook General Carters command at Buck Creek, 10 miles north of Somerset, on the Crab Orchard road, and learned from him that the enemy had retreated before him from the time the advance commenced, on the 28th, and was at that moment imme- diately in his front; that in the pnrsuit his own infantry had all been left more than one days march behind, and that the entire strength of his mounted command, all of which was present with him, did not ex- ceed 900 men. The re-enforcements which I had brought with me increased the force to abont 1,250 men, comprising the Forty-fifth Ohio Volnuteer Infantry (mounted), Colonel Runkle; a portion of the Forty-fourth Ohio Vol- unteer Infantry (mounted), under Major Mitchell, which formed part of Ilunkles command; the First Kentucky Volunteer Cavalry, Colonel Wolford; the Seventh Ohio Volunteer Cavalry, Colonel Garrard; one section of Itodman rifles, and four mountain howitzers. As soon as the horses were fed, I ordered an advauce, and we soon became engaged with the rear gnard of the enemy, forcing it back gradually, until about noon, when the position of the main body was developed, strongly posted on Duttons Hill, 3 miles north of Somerset. It then became evident that we were greatly outnumbered, and that if it had been the intention of the enemy to draw ns from beyond the sup- port of onr infantry, so as to place us under a disadvantage, he had apparently succeeded. I formed line of battle by placing Wolford (dis- mounted) on the right, in the woods, Garrard and the artillery on open ground in the center, and Runkle (dismounted) on the left, with open ground in his front, and the Somerset road between him and the center. The entire command was placed in one line, but a fictitions reserve was improvised by posting the horses of the Forty-fourth and Forty- fifth Ohio Volunteer Infantry in rear of the center, partially concealed in the woods. It was ascertained after the action that the enemy re- garded this as a strong cavalry reserve, and it consequently counted passively as snch dnring the action. The fight commenced by artillery firing on both sides, about 12.30 p. m. About the same time a column of mounted troops was seen to leave the enemy in front of our center and disappear in the woods in front of our right. Wolford was almost immediately hotly engaged with them, and, unable to hold his own, was slowly forced back to his left and rear toward the road. A small force of the enemy, passing entirely around Wolfords right, gained the road in my rear, across which the line was formed, and captured three horses from the ambulances attached to the command. At this juncture I ordered Runkle, on the left, and a portion of Ga Page 170 170 KY., MID. AND E. TENN., N. ALA., AND SW. VA. [CHAP. XXXV~ rards cavalry, in the center, under Major Norton, to storm the hill. This was done with great coolness and gallantry, and with but trifling loss to us, as most of the enemys musketry fire passed over the heads of the advancing troops. As the fighting still continued with great spirit in the woods on my right, where our success in carrying the hill was not yet known, I dispatched a portion of the Seventh Ohio Cavalry, by the same route which the enemy had taken to make his detour in that direction, to attack him in the rear, at the same time informing Colonel Wolford of this movement, with orders to make the best fight he could until this succor arrived. The action was soon brought to a successful close in that part of the field, for the enemy, finding himself attacked in the rear, and knowing from this that we must have carried the right and center of their line on the hill, fled in confusion by two roads toward the fords of the Cumberland River. A rapid pursuit was ordered as SOOU as the troops for that purpose could be got together, and the enemy was found posted behind temporary defenses in another strong position about 3 miles south of Somerset. As night had already set in, and as my effective command had been reduced to about 900 men by killed, wounded, stragglers, and detach. ments to guard prisoners, it was not deemed proper to make a night attack. The enemy withdrew during the night and recrossed the Cum- berland River. The only report which I made at the time of the action at Somerset was contained in two telegraphic dispatches to Major-General Burnside, commanding Department of the Ohio, which he communicated to the General.in-Chief, as follows: LOTJISvILLE, Ky., April 1, 1563. Major-General HALLECK, General-in-Chief, Washington: The following dispatch has been received from General Gilimore, giving the details of his successful attack upon the enemy in Central Kentucky: SOMERSET, Xv., March 31, 18632 a. m. I attacked the enemy yesterday in a strong position of his own selection, defended by six cannon, near this town, fought him for five hours, driving him from one position to another, and finally stormed his position, and drove him in confusion toward the river. His loss is over 300 in killed, wounded, and risoners. The enemy outnumbered us two to one, and were commauded by General Pegram in person. ~Tight stopped the pnrsuit, which will be renewed in the morning, we captured two stand of colors. Our loss in killed, wounded, and missing will not exceed 30. Scotts famous rebel regiment was cut off from the rest and scattered. Q. A. GILLMORE, Brigadier-General. The entire rebel force has been driven out of Central Kentucky, and much of their plunder has been recaptured. Their reported force has been greatly exaggerated, as well as the amount of plunder taken by them. I have this moment received a second dispatch from General Gillmore, dated this morning, from Stigalls Ferry, on the Cum- berland River, as follows: I underrated the enemys force in my first report of yesterdays fight. They had over 2,600 men, outnumbering us more than two to one. During the night their troops recrossed the Cumberland in three places. We have retaken between 300 and 400 cattle. Pegrams loss will not fall short of 500 men. I will be in Lexington to-morrow. Q. A. GILLMORE, Brigadier-GeneraL The alacrity with which the troops were concentrated, and the vigor and gallantry of their attack, are highly commendable. A. E. BUENSIDE, Major- General, Commanding. Soon after the battle of Somerset, I turned over the command of the District of Central Kentucky to Brig. Gen. 0. B. Wilicox, and was sub- sequently assigned to duty elsewhere. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, Q. A. GJLLMORE, Major- General, Commanding Page 171 CHAP. XXXv.~ PEGEAMS EXPEDITION INTO KENTUCKY. 171 No. 3. Reports of Brig. Gem Mahion ft lilanson, U. ~. Army. LEBANON, March 25, 1863. Rebel~ took Dauville at 4 oclock yesterday. Colonel [F.] Wolford made a gallant stand, but was driven back. Rebels said to be under command of Breckinridge. Estimated strength of rebel force, 12,000. I have no artillery, but will hold my position until rebels come in. JAULON D. MANSON, Brigadier- General. Brig. Gen. J. T. BOYLE. LEBANON, March 27, 1863. Eighty of the Ninth Kentucky Cavalry made a dash into Danville yesterday evening; drove in rebel pickets, capturing their guns. Re- turned this morning. Whole rebel force not over 2,500. First Georgia in Danville. MAULON D. MANSON, Brig. Gen. J. T. BOYLE. Brigadier- General. LEBANON, March 29, 18636 a. m. One hundred men of the Ninth Kentucky Cavalry took Danville yesterday evening, killing 1 man and capturing 15. Main rebel force yesterday, at 11 oclock, at Lancaster, with 2,000 beeves. Train not in, and have received no orders. Had I not better move at once with- out baggage to Stanford, by way of Hustonville, to prevent them from crossing at Halls Gap l I am all ready to move. MAHLON B. MANSON, Brig. Gen. J. T. BOYLE. Brigadier-General. No. 4. Report of Brig. Gen. John Pegram, C. S. Army, commanding expedi tion. HEADQUARTERS CAVALRY BRIGADE, Near & igalls Ferry, Ky., April 1, 1863. SIR: I have the honor to make the following report of the expedition of my brigade into this State for the purpose of obtaining beef-cattle for the Confederate Army: On Sunday, the 22d ultimo, I commenced crossing my command at this ferry, and early on Monday morning had the whole force, number- ing about 1,550 cavalry and [G. A.] Huwalds battery of three pieces, on the nOrth bank of the river. I immediately commenced a forced march over a very muddy road, and, moving nearly the whole night, reached and attacked Danville about 2 oclock on the next day. The enemy, thoflgh numbering five regiments of infantry, one of cavalry, and seven pieces of artillery, after a slight re8istance, retired from before the town, and commenced retreating by the road toward Camp Dick Robinson. We attacked their rear by charging them in the streets of Danville Page 172 172 KY., MID. AND E. TENN., N. ALA., AND SW. VA. [CHAP. XXXV. The First Louisiana (Lieutenant-Colonel [James 0.] Nixon commanding) led the column. On entering the suburbs of the town, it was met by a heavy fire from an infantry ambuscade in a thicket not more than 50 yards distant. The regiment stood this fire for several minutes with the most admirable composure, and then, the infantry retiring, charged on into the town, followed by two companies of the Second Tennessee, led by their gallant colonel ([II. M.] Ashby), and by the First Georgia (Colonel [J. J.] Morrison). The street fight was brisk for some twenty minutes; rendered more so from the fact that some of the citizens fired at us from the windows. Just as the enemy left the town, I was handed an intercepted dispatch from Colonel [Benjamin P.] Runkle (Federal) to General [S. P.] Carter (Federal), saying he would arrive in Lancaster that night, and would try to join him on the main Lexington road running by Camp Dick Robinson. Ordering Colonel Nixon to follow np the rear of the enemy closely, I at once sent to recall the remainder of the com- mand, and started for one of the fords over Dicks River, with the view of throwing my command between Carter and Runkle near Camp Dick Robinson, bnt 61 miles and a sharp fight in twenty-eight hours had already proven too much for the horses, and I found it impossible to reach the desired point in time. Besides a few stores, we captured in Danville about 60 prisoners, among them bein6 Lieutenant-Colonel [Silas] Adams, of [Frank] Wolfords cavalry. Learning from the citizens that the enemy regarded my force as the ad- vance of a heavy infantry column, and having in view the clearing the three countiesLincoln, Boyle, and Garrardfor some days, I pushed my command, with the exception of the First Louisiana Regiment (left at Danville to watch the Lebanon and Frankfort roads), up to within 2 miles of the Gibraltar, at the Kentucky River bridge, which was occu- pied by the enemy with a force composed of the three arms, and greatly superior to my own in numbers. I played this game of bluff, occasion- ally skirmishing with the enemy, until the cattle had been collected, and then, burning the two bridges over Dicks River (now much swollen by recent rains), I commenced falling back slowly by the Stanford and Somerset road. On the morning of the 29th, I received a dispatch from Colonel Ashby, who had been sent by way of Crab Orchard, that the enemy was press- ing him in heavy force. I immediately hurried the command on to Som- erset, within 2 miles of which, on the morning of the 30th, I selected a strong position to resist the enemy. This step was imperative, both be- cause the cattle were scarcely half crossed over the Cumberland River, and because, that river being only 6 miles in my rear, the safety of my command somewhat depended upon giving the enemy a good check. Leaving the Sixteenth Tennessee Battalion to watch the road toward Stanford, I placed the First Louisiana and First Tennessee Regiments, under Colonel [J. S.] Scott, at the junction of the Stanford and Crab Orchard roads. I then placed the First Georgia (dismounted) on the right of the selected position, Major [Theophilus] Steeles battalion (of General John II. Morgans command) in the center, and the Second Ten- nessee on the left. [G. A.] iluwalds pieces were placed on commanding points. The action commenced by an artillery fight, in which, though ours had 40 feet command over that of the enemy, theirs got the best of it. This was due both to the inferiority of our ammunition and to the want of practice of our cannoneers, most of whom were for the first time under fire; yet all of my men stood the heavy fire of artillery and small-arms with unflinching courage. Seeing very soon that the enemy was turning all of his force against that position, I ordered up Colone Page 173 CHAP. XXXV.] PEGRAMS EXPEDITION INTO KENTUCKY. 173 Scott with his command. On arriving upon the field, he suggested I should allow him to move around the enemys right flank and to charge his rear. I told him to do so, but to act promptly, as everything de- pended upon his quickness. After he left, I held the position for more than an hour. His movements should have occupied ten minutes, and yet he never obeyed the orders given him. The enemy, forming his two infantry regiments in line of battle (his infantry was mounted, and of course dismounted for this formation), charged up the hill under cover of some undergrowth. My men stood until the enemy were within 30 yards, and then gave way from right to left. All efforts of myself and of the gallant officers assisting me failed to rally the men at that point. Our loss was small in killed and wounded, but rather heavy in pris- oners, owing to my being obliged to detach parts of three companies of the Second Tennessee to occupy a thicket to the left, which a regiment of the enemy was trying to get possession of. All officers who came under my notice behaved with great gallantry, most conspicuous of whom were Colonels [J. J.] Morrison and [II. M.] Ashby, Lieutenant-Colonel [A. R] Harper, and Captain [W. M.] .Foot- man. The last-mentioned brave man was commanding a detachment of the First Florida Cavalry, which came up just in time to make the most gallant efforts to resist the advance of the enemy, and which lost very heavily. Captain Footman had his horse killed under him. He has, during this expedition, rendered the most efficient service, being con- stantly in front when we were advancing, and in rear on the retreat. Before reaching the town (1 mile distant), the command was put in order, and marched through the streets in perfect order at a walk, with the exception of a few stragglers. I placed the command in the next good position for defense, 2~ miles from Somerset, where I awaited the advance of the enemy for three hoursuntil night. They advanced cautiously, threw a few shells, skirmished lightly, and then retired. At nightfall I withdrew my command, excepting a rear guard. As there was but one ferry-boat at Stigalls Ferry, I ordered Colonel Morrison with his regiment 3 miles below to Newells Ferry. By sunrise the next day the battery, Second Tennessee, and Sixteenth Battalion had all crossed, excepting some 20 horses. Colonel Morrison also lost about the same number of his horses in crossing. The enemy appeared about 8 oclock, but in no great force. The entire loss of my brigade in killed, wounded, and missing during the expedition will be slightly over 200 men, being greatest in the First Louisiana. The enemy is reported to have buried 80 of his men, but this is mere rumor. His loss, however, must have been heavy, as shown by his want of readiness in following us up. During the expedition we took and paroled 178 prisoners from the enemy. As regards the object of the expedition (the beef-cattle), the agents fouud many less in the counties we entered than had been represented. This was because large numbers had recently been driven out by the agents of the United States Government. We started with about 750, and crossed over the river 537. In the difficult matter of crossing the command, I wish especially to bring to your notice Lieut. Tucker Randolph, acting on my staffi By his personal efforts during the whole night he rendered such service as commanded the admiration of all who saw him. During the action of the morning, this officer and Lieutenants [J. F.] Ransom and [George] Yoe, and Volunteer Aides D. Henley Smith and D. C. Freeman, jr., were always in the thickest of the fight, bearing orders with promptuess and %~oOlfles5, and doing all they could to encourage the men Page 174 174 BY., MID. AND E. TENN., N. ALA., AND SW. VA. [CHAr. XXXV. ror Colonel Scotts operations, I refer you to the accompanying report. Touching this curious document, I have only to say that I cannot but admire the ingenuity with which Colonel Scott has attempted to account for disobedience of orders and dilatoriness of action, which, it is my sincere belief lost us the fight. I am, sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant, JNO. PEGRAM, Brigadier- General, Provisional Army Confederate States. Capt. J. G. MARTIN Asst. Adjt. Gen., D~pt. of East Tennessee, Knoxville. No. 5. Report of Gol. J. S. Scott, First Louisiana Cavalry. APRIL 4, 1863. SIR: In accordance with orders, on March 30, while you were engaged with the enemy on the Crab Orchard road, I moved from yonr left with my own and Colonel [James E.] Carters regiment, to attack the enemy in flank and rear. After advancing about 1,000 yards, and reaching the head of a ravine that opened on the Crab Orchard road immediately in rear of the enemy~s batteries, I came in contact with a regiment moving in column, dismounted, bearing guns with fixed bayonets. I ordered my men to front into line for a charge, but soon discovered that I had but 30 men with me. On inquiry as to what had become of my com- mand, I was informed by Captain [G. A.] Scott, who had pushed up from the rear, that it had been cut off by Lieutenant [J. F.] Ransom, one of your aides, ordered to countermarch, and resume the position which I had left. The enemy, whom I met at the head of the ravine fled with. out firing a gun, and with my 30 men I marched back in the direction of where my command had been ordered by your aide. Before reaching them, however; I learned that you had ordered them back to me, and renewed the order to charge the enemys rear. After my command had returned, I found that my movements were discovered by the enemy, and he had made such preparation as rendered it impossible to attack him as near his front as first intended. After moving a few hundred yards farther to the rear, I divided my command into three parts, placing six companies of the First Louisiana Cavalry under Lieutenant-Colonel [James 0.1 Nixon, and four under Captain [Samuel] Matthews, with orders to charge down at right angles to the Crab Orchard road, while Colonel Carter, by making a detour to the left, would strike the same road several hundred yards farther to the rear, and charge up it. Owing to the unevenness of the ground, the two detachments of the First Lou- isiana were unable to reach the road, mounted, and finding the enemy in force on their front, a part of the regiment was dismounted, which engaged him briskly, while Colonel Carter gallantly drove through a regiment of infantry and dispersed a detachment of cavalry. But find- ing the enemy in front of Colonel Nixon too strong, he filed to the right and formed in rear of the First Louisiana, who at that time were engag- ing the enemy with spirit and determination. Lieutenant-Colonel Nixon fought them until his ammunition was exhausted, when he retired to the rear of Colonel Carter, who gave theti a heavy volley as the cavalr Page 175 CHAP. XXXV.] SKIRMISH NEAR THOMPSONS STATION, TENN. 175 charged; but, being overpowered by numbers, was compelled to give way. On the Stanford road I again rallied my men, and with a few rounds of ammunition checked and drove back the enemy with some loss, and retired toward the Cumberland. After the charge of Colonel Carter, a fight eould have been avoided, and the two regiments been brought off without the loss of 10 men; but both officers and men seemed to feel that upon an effort made there de- volved the safety of the brigade, and all were willing to submit to any sacrifice to insure its safe crossing at the river. It was for this reason that I attempted to make a stand against a force fully five times my number, and that had already flanked me on both wings. My command did not number over 330 men. Of that number the First Louisiana lost 71 men and 4 commissioned officers, and Colonel Carters lost 5 commissioned officers and 32 men. The individual acts of gallantry and heroism were so numerous as to preclude the possibility of my detailing them. Colonel Carter and. Lieu- tenant-Colonel Nixon displayed great coolness on the field. The former was at one time completely surrounded, and made his escape by use of his pistol. The latter had his bridle-reins seized by a Yankee officer, but succeeded in making his escape with a slight wound in his hand. This is the first time that the First Louisiana Cavalry has ever turned their backs on an enemy, and I assure you I feel as much mortified as ally soldier could who thinks he has done his duty. But for the unfor- tunate circumstance of cutting my command in two when 1 thought I had an advantage of the enemy, the disasters of the day might have been very much lessened, and I would very respectfully suggest that aides in the future be instructed to bear your messages tome in person, instead of halting my column in a charge and in the face of a powerful enemy. Very respectfully, J. S. SCOTT, Colonel First Louisiana Cavalry. Brigadier-General PEcfRAivr, Commanding Cavalry. MARCH 23, 1863.Skirmish near Thompsons Station, Tenn. Report of Aft~J. Gen. Gordon Granger, U. S. Army. FRANKLIN, March 23, 1863. GENERAL: Our cavalry has driven the rebel advance back to Thomp. sons Station, where their main body is strongly posted, covering the three points. We made an effort to dislodge them, but failed, with a loss of 1 officer and 4 men, I will keep the cavalry feinting them and watching their movements. This post can take care of itself, although they may fall upon Brent- wood and damage our communications. To-morrow, I think, will de- velop their movements. G. GRANGER, Major- General. General J~ J. REYNOLDS Page 176 176 KY., MID. AND E. TENN., N. ALA., AND SW. VA. (CHAP. XXXV. MARCH 25, 1863.Actions at Brentwood and on the Little Harpeth River, Tenn. REPORTS No. 1.Maj. Gen. William S. Rosecrans, U. S. Army, commanding Department of thee Cumberland. No. 2.Maj. Gen. Gordon Granger, U. S. Army, commanding Army of Kentucky. No. 3.Brig. Gen. G. Clay Smith, U. S. Army, commanding Fourth Cavalry Brigade, Department of the Cumberland. No. 4.Col. Thomas J. Jordan, Ninth Pennsylvania Cavalry. No. 5.Lient. Col. Edward Bloodgood, Twenty-second Wisconsin Infantry. No. 6.Brig. Gen. Robert B. Mitchell, U. S. Army. No. 7.Brig. Gen. James B. Steedman, U. S. Army, commanding Third Division, Four- teenth Army Corps~ No. 8.General Braxton Bragg, C. S. Army. No. 9.Brig. Gen. Nathan B. Forrest, C. S. Army, commanding First Division, First Cavalry Corps. No. 10.Return of Casualties, C. S. forces. No. 11.Brig. Gen. Frank C. Armstrong, C. S. Army, commanding First Brigade, First Division. No. 12.Col. James Gordon, Fourth Mississippi Cavalry. No. 13.Licut. Col. James H. Lewis, First [Sixth] Tennessee Cavalry. No. 14.Maj. William E. De Moss, Tenth Tennessee Cavalry. No. 15.CoL James W. Starnes, Third [Fourth] Tennessee Cavalry, commanding Second Brigade. No. 1. Reports of Maj. Gen. William S. Rosecrans, U. S. Army, commanding Department of the Gumberland. MURFREESBOROUGH, TENN., March 26, 186312 noon. The following has just been received from Major-General Granger: FRAKKLIN, TENN., March 25, 1863. The force at Breutwood was captured early this morning by two or three brigades of rebel cavalry. They crossed the Harpeth, 12 miles below, near Tank, and destroyed the railroad bridge and telegraph. Pickets were attacked early and vigorously on all approaches to this place, on the south side of the river. I immediately dispatched cav- alry, under General Smith, to save railroad train and Brentwood. Tho rebels had coin- pleted work; were moving westward; pursued and overtook them, 6 miles out; sharp engagement; recaptured wagons, ambulances, and arms (one hundred) taken from us, and two hundred stand in addition. When success seemed certain, Forrest came with a strong force on the left. We were compelled to fall back to Brentwood, burning a portion of the wagons and destroying such arms as we could not bring away. General Smith reports 350 to 400 of the enemy killed. Brought in 40 prisoners. Our loss does not exceed 50. W. S. ROSEORANS, Major- General. Maj. Gen. H. W. HALLECK, General-in- Chief. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE CUMBERLAND, ]Iliurfreesborough, Tenn., April 6, 1863. GENERAL: Inclosed I transmit a report from Maj. Gen. Gordon Granger, with sub-report from II3rig. Gen. G, 0. Smith, respecting th Page 177 CHAP. XXXY.] ACTIONS AT BRENTWOOD, TENN., ETC. 17 affair at Brentwood. It shows that Colonel Bloodgood and his com- mand were captured with such feeble resistance as to reflect disgrace on all concerned. The block-house was one which could have been defended against any cavalry or infantry attack they were able to bring against it. Colonel [W. P.] Innes and 290 men defended themselves in a small corral of rails, brush, and wagons at La Vergue against a more formidable attack. The cavalry appear to have behaved gallantly, I am glad to observe, and call attention to the evidences of its increasing effectiveness. With proper officers and arms, it will soon be able to cope with its rebel foes effectually. W. S. ROSECIRANS, Major- General. Brig. Gen. LORENZO THoMAs, Adjutant-General, U. S. Army, Washington, D. 0. No. 2. Reports of Maj. Gen. Gordon Granger, U. S. Army, commanding Army of Kentucky. FRANKLIN, TENN., March 25, 1863. Courier posts Nos. 3 and 4, 5~ and 7~ miles in the direction of Triune, were attacked and driven off between 3 and 4 oclock this morning. One got back to the post in this direction, and reports that a column of rebel cavalry, 800 to 1,000 strong, passed on in the direction of Brentwood. I at once telegraphed Lieutenant-Colonel Bloodgood at that place to be on the alert, and found the wires already cut. Soon after daylight my pickets on the Columbia, Carter Creek, and llillsborongh roads were at- tacked, and skirmishing has been going on since. I have re.enforced my pickets on the south side of the river, and sent the balance of the cavalry back on the Nashville pike, to look after the train and guards at Brentwood. Respectfully, your obedient servant, G. GRANGER, Major. General. General W. S. ROSECRANS, Murfreesborough. (General Steedman please read this, and forward it rapidly to Gen- eral Rosecrans. The wires are cut.) HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF KENTUCKY, Franklin, Tenn., March 25, 1863. The force at Brentwood and at the creek this side of the place were captured early this morning by two or three brigades of rebel cavalry, which crossed the flarpeth some 12 miles below, near Tank, destroying the railroad bridge and telegraph. Our pickets were attacked early and vigorously, on all the approaches to this place, on the south side of the river. The courier line at Stations No. 3 and No. 4, between this place and Triune, were routed at nearly the same hour. At the time this information was received I was re-enforcing the advance cavalry pickets; had already crossed some 300 men. It at once occurred to me 12 R RYOL XXIII, PT Page 178 178 KY., MID. AND E. TENN., N. ALA., AND SW. VA. ~CaAr. XXXV. that Brentwood and the morning train were the objects to be attacked by the force that passed between this place and Triune. I accordingly immediately dispatched the remainder of the cavalry, under Gen~ra1 Smith, to ~itve the train and Breutwood, if possible. The rebels had completed their work, and were moving westward on his arrival there. He pursued and overtook them some 5 or 6 miles out, when a sharp en- gagement took place; recaptured the wagons, ambulances, the arms taken from our people, and about two hundred stand in addition, be. longing to t7he killed and wounded of the enemy. At this juncture, and as success seemed certain, Forrest came in with a strong brigade on the left, and General Smith was forced to fall back on Brentwood, burning a portion of the wagons, and destroying such arms as he could not bring away. General Smith and Colonel Watkins report that at least 350 to 400 of the enemy were killed and wounded. Brought in 40 prisoners. Our loss will not exceed 450; among them several officers. I have recalled the cavalry, and moved at once across to the Hulisbor- ough pike at Boyds Mill, hoping to intercept them. G. GRANGER, Major. General, Commanding. Maj. Gen. W. S. JIOSECRANS, Murfreesborough. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF KENTUCKY, Franklin, Tenn., Ajpril 3, 1863. COLONEL: I have the honor to inclose herewith the report of Brig. Gen. G. Clay Smith, commanding the Fourth Cavalry Brigade, of the operations of a portion of our cavalry under his immediate command on March 25. The report speaks for itself, and I submit the same with- out comment. At daylight on the morning of March 25, our pickets on the Lewis. burg, Columbia, Carter Creek, and Boyds Mill roads were vigorously attacked, those on the Columbia by artillery, and were being rapidly driven back. Fortunately, I had ordered all the cavalry, on the evening previous, to be in saddle at the dawn of day, for the purpose of making a heavy demonstration on both his flanks, in order to develop his force and exact position. The cavalry being in hand, I commenced pushing it over the river to re-enforce our pickets and force the enemy to show his hand. As soon as some 300 had crossed the river, one oC the cou- riers front post No. 3, Triune line, came in and reported that posts Nos. 3 and 4 of their line had been routed between 3 and 4 a. m. by the en- emys cavalry, numbering from 800 to 1,000, which was moving in the direction of Brentwood. While listening to this report, a messenger, a Union man living in the vicinity, arrived from near Tank, and reported that a heavy cavalry force, under Forrest and Wharton, had crossed Harpeth some miles below this place, and was moving in the direction of Nashville. It now became evident that their inteutions were to capture Brent- wood and the morning train from Nashville. I had in reserve but about 600 cavalry, and accordingly dispatched Brig. Gen. G. Clay Smith to save Brentwood, guards, and train, cost what it would, and that I would re-enforce him at the earliest possible moment. For several hours the rebels pressed back everything sent against them in our front. The telegraph wires had been cut in the directio Page 179 CHAr. XXXV.] ACTIONS AT BRENTWOOD, TENN., ETC. 1.79 of Nashville for several hours, and everything indicated a gener~l attack in our front and rear, a thing which we desired, as we regarded our position one not to be trifled with. However, I drew back nearly all the cavalry from the front, in order to re~enforce General Smith, and had dispatched him to that effect, when I received a message from him saying that he had fallen back on Brentwood, and was then waiting orders I was greatly surprised, for 1 expected him to harass the enemy~s rear until re-enforcements could come up and enable him to take the offen- sive. I had infantry and a battery also in readiness to pnsh up rapidly, and had the cavalry hnng heavily npon their rear and forced them to move slowly, which they would have been compelled to do with the ilarpeth River to cross in their rear, our re-enfQrcements would have come up, and, I believe, the rebel expedition would have been scattered to the four winds, and our milk and water soldiers under Bloodgood and Bassett, who did not defend themselves nor the stockade at Brentwood, must have been recaptured. From all I can ascertain, Lieutenant-Colonel Bloodgood surrendered Brentwood, and Captain [E. B.] Bassett the stockade, unnecessarily, after firing but very few shots, and withont having a man either killed or wounded. Had they fought for one hour, our cavalry and infantry would have arrived on the spot and cut the rebels -to pieces. I visited the stockade in person, and found it very strongcapable of holding 200 menand it could easily have been defended for a lon~ time, but not a mark of a bullet could be discovered on it. As many of the men had scattered off to Nashville,Jam unable to report our exact loss at present, but it must amount to about 600. Very respectfully; your obedient servant, G. GIRANGER, ]JiEajor- General, Commanding. Col. C. GODDARD, Assistant Adjutant- General. No.3. Report of Brig. Gen. G. Clay ,S~mith, U. S. Army, commanding Fourth Cavalry Brigade, Department of the Cumberland. HEADQUARTERS FOIJETII CAVALRY BRIGADE, Franklin, Tenn., liilareh 27, 1863. SIR: I have the honor to report the result of the cavalry engagement on Wednesday, the 25th instant. Early in the morning the enemy were pressing our pickets on the roads in front, when General Granger directed me to re-enforce them sufficiently to push forward and ascertain the movements of the rebels. About 8.30 a. m. it was discovered that 1,000 or 1,500 rebel cavalry, under Colonel Starnes, had crossed the Big Harpeth some 8 or 10 miles to th~ left, and were marching on Breutwood, 9 miles to the rear. Gen- eral Granger ordered me with the remainder of my cavalry to that sta- tion. Upon reaching the railroad bridge, half a mile this side, it was found that the rebels had accomplished their work, burned the bridge, captured the infantry posted there, destroyed the camp, and were mov- ing westerly with our wagons, guns, and prisoners. My force was between 560 and 700 men. I directed Colonel Wat- Rins, with the Sixth Kentucky, 200 men, and two companies of th Page 180 1~O KY., MID. AND E. TENN., N. ALA., AND SW. VA. [CHAP. lxxv. Secon~ Michigan Cavalry, to move forward rapidly on their rear; two companies of the Second Michigan I sent to the right, by Brentwood, to join us in pursuit, the Ninth Pennsylvania and Fourth Kentucky fol- lowing closely in the rear of Colonel Watkins and a little to the left. The enemy were overtaken about 34 miles from Breutwood, when a run- ning fire was begun and kept up, the rebels falling back for 24 miles. We recaptured all the wagons and mules, about fourhundred stand of arms, a large number of knapsacks, and two k~ads of ammunition, with one hundred stand of arms dropped by the fleeing rebels. Six miles from Breutwood, where several roads come together and cross the Little ilarpeth, Colonel Starnes succeeded in bringing the larger por- tion of his command to a stand, but in ten or fifteen minutes they were driven back, which gave us command of the cross-roads and a strong position. At this point a general engagement followed, lasting about one and a half hours. They were again driven back from the woods, ravines, and brush. The men were exhilarated with hope and success, and pushed forward in gallant style, when Wharton, with 1,500 cavalry and mounted infantry, appeared close upon the right, and General Forrest, with a large command, on the left. These re-enforcements gave Colonel Starnes new courage, and his men rallied in my front. They made, from the front and left, three charges upon the Second Michigan and Sixth Kentucky andtwo companies of the Ninth Pennsylvania, but were handsomely repulsed with great loss each time. After a hot engage- ment for near an hour, and finding they could not break my front or drive me back, they attempted to surround me, when it was thought advisable to fall back. This began in good o~rder and slow, the Second Michigan, part of the Sixth and Fourth Kentucky, and Ninth Pennsyl- vania on foot. The rebels pushed forward with great fury and tre- mendous shouting, but still my men fell back slowly from tree to tree and rock to rock. For 2 miles at least did they follow, but their flank movements were checked and their charges repulsed at every point, and they eventually withdrew. I fell back to Breutwood and halted, where I rested my men and horses, and after receiving orders, late in the evening, returned to camp. The teams of the recaptured wagons had been so tightly pressed in the chase that three of them failed to pull, when I ordered the wagons to be burned, also the contents, with about twenty cases of ammunition and three hundred guns. The others were safely brought off, with two of our own ambulances, recaptured, and two belonging to the rebels. Our loss was as follows: Command. rn o 2d Michigan 1 8 2 6th Kentucky 2 6 1 9th Pennsylvania... 2 1 4th Kentucky 1 3 . Total 4 19 4 The loss of the enemy was not less, in the judgment of my officers and myself, than from 400 to 500 killed, wounded, and prisoners. Forty-six prisoners were brought in, and from the number of men seen lying on the field, and number of empty saddles observed, and the bus Page 181 CHAP. XXXVI) ACTIONS AT I31~ENTWOOD, TtNN., ETC. 181 squads packing the dead and disabled to the rear, makes the above es- timate very reasonable. My men shot with wonderful and fearful aim. The five-shooters of the Second Michigan, and the rapidity with which the Buruside carbine could be loaded, poured such a constant and deadly volley into their ranks, and felled so many, that but for such over- whelming forces, numbering not less than 5,000, our success would have been unquestioned, and our captured men, under Colonel Bloodgood, retaken. It may well, however, be the boast of that small force of 600 men that they drove more than twice their number, with two pieces of artillery, over 6 miles, perfectly dismayed and whipped, and fonght, for over two hours, almost ten times their strengths and successfully resisted their charges for 2 miles, when we came to a halt, and the enemy thought proper to desist. They captured 380 of our infantry, but were sorely punished. By and by we will recover ours; but they had an equal number made useless to them hereafter at Little Harpeth. I cannot speak too earnestly of the coolness, courage, and daring gallantry of Col. L. D. Watkins, Sixth Kentucky Cavalry. He was prompt in the execution of every order, and rendered me great assist- ance throughout the whole engagement. Attention is also called to the unexceptionable conduct and bravery of Maj. W. H. Fidler and Lieuts. George Williams, Dan. Cheatham, and Mead, Sixth Kentucky. To Lieuts. Williams, Cheatham, and Mead, who with 12 men were cut off in one of the charges made by Colonel Watkins, and gallantly fought their way out, killing 7 rebels, wounding several, and capturing 6 pris- oners, making their way to Nashville, where they arrived safely with their prisoners, I call especial attention. Such men deserve promotion in the army. I must also direct attention to Major Gwynne, Fourth Kentucky Cavalry, who bore himself with great gallantry, and did much in resisting the bold attacks of the enemy. Also Captains Weather- wax (commanding Second Michigan Cavalry) and Johnston, Lieutenant Robinson, and Orderly Sergt. [J. N.] Stephens, Company L, same regi- ment, deserve the highest consideration for their conduct on that day. I recommend their promotion. Major Jones, of the Ninth Penusyl- vania Cavalry, whom I ordered to charge with his battalion and main- tain his position on the left, deserves my highest praise. His horse was shot under him. Captain Kimmel, of the same regiment, when falling back, came across a number of loaded gunssome fifteen or twenty. He stood, fired, and broke, until all were unloaded at the enemy and broken over a tree. It was a good deed, and he deserves praise. I held Colonel Jordan, with a portion of his regiment, in re- serve, to re-enforce such points as should need it. His men, whenever called upon, behaved well. In conclusion, I must thank the members of my staff who were with me, Capt. J. M. Porter, and Lients. G. Clay Goodloe, C. E. Terry, and Dr. II. Mallory, for valuable and faithful services. Also Lient. 0. B. McKniglit, who commanded my escort, for the good fighting he and his 30 men did on several occasions when the enemy were pressing heavily. My wounded were all brought off, and 2 (reported killed) died after getting to camp. I am, captain, your most obedient servant, G. CLAY SMITH, Brigadier- General, Commanding. Capt. W. C. RUSSELL, Assistant Adjutant- General Page 182 182 XY., MID. AND IX TENN., N. ALA., AND SW. VA. [CHAr. XXXV. ADDEYDA. HEADQUARTERS DEPARTME1~T OF THE CUMBERLAND, Major-General GRANGER, ]Ilurfreesborough, April 1, 1863. Commanding at Franklin: GENERAL: The general commanding, having read General G. Clay Smiths report of the cavalry battle of Little ilarpeth, between 600 or 700 of the Second Michigan, Ninth Pennsylvania, Fourth and Sixth Kentucky Cavalry, and the rebel cavalry under Forrest, Starnes, and Biffie, desires publicly to express to General Smith and the officers and men under him, engaged in the fight, his thanks for the spirit and gal- lantry of their behavior. He congratulates them, as well as himself and the country, that our cavalry thus show themselves worthy of the cause in which they combat. Soldiers, we fight au arbitrary and despotic rebellion, whose motto is rule or ruin all who oppose their selfish schemes. They have ruined the South, and, were they able, would ruin us also. May all our troops emulate your conduct in this action, fighting like brave men, long and well, and we shall soon conquer a peace with liberty and national unity. J. A. GARFIELD, Brigadier- General and Chief of & aff. No. 4. Report of Col. Thomas J. Jordan, Ninth Pennsylvania Cavalry. HEADQUARTERS NINTH PENNSYLVANIA CAVALRY, Franklin, Tenn., March 26, 1863. SIR: The part taken by the Ninth Pennsylvania Cavalry in the action of yesterday, thongh of small moment, 1 beg leave to report. At about 10 a. m. we came in sight of the rear of the enemy, retreat- ing in the direction of Harpeth River. The Sixth Kentucky and Second Michigan Cavalry preceded my regiment in the column, the rear being brought up by the Fourth Kentucky, under the command of Major Gwynne. By order of General Smith, the column was moved forward at a trot, and the passage of the creek in our front threw us some dis- tance in the rear. I at once ordered my men into a gallop, which was continued for between 4 and 5 miles, when I canght up with the rear of the Second Michigan. For more than half an honr the Sixth Kentucky had been skirmishing with the enemy and taking prisoners. At a road called Granny Whites turnpike the enemy made a more determined stand, though before this they had lost the wagons of am- munition and arms captured from the United States forces at Brent: wood. As I came up, Colonel Watkins, with the Sixth Kentucky, and Captain [Weatherwaxjj,with the Second Michigan, were deployed as skir- mishers, moving upon the enemy in our front, and I at once moved for- ward to support them by a charge of cavalry, when I saw, on the Granny White turnpike and about 700 or 800 yards to our right flank, a body of the enemy, fully equal in size to our whole force, with a smaller one on our left flank. I at once determined to charge the head of my column upon the force to the right, and moved my men npon the turnpike for that purpose, when I discovered that they were filing off to their right along a high stone fence, from which they could most effectually sto Page 183 CHAr. XXXV.] ACTIONS AT BIIENTWOOD, TENN., ETC. 183 my charge. At the same moment an order came from General Smith not to charge, as he, on the hill where he was posted, had seen the force. The enemy at once began tQ flank the Sixth Kentucky and Second Michigan, when the general ordered the recall to be sounded. The enemy, however, came on with loud cheers, but were met with a with- ering fire from said regiments, which caused them to scamper off at double-quick. During this thue I had, by orders, dismounted my men and ordered them to hold the stone fence in their front. The enemy in front, who but a few moments before had been a mass of disorganized men, throwing away their arms and seeking safety in flight, now took courage and again advanced (but out of range) to our left flank, while those in front were slowly closing up, with a heavy body thrown toward our right flank. By order of General Smith, we began to retire slowly and in order, now and then turning upon the enemy and driving them a respectful distance from our rear. The enemy succeeded in killing 6 of the horses of the Ninth Penn- sylvania Cavalry and wounding 7, but, strange to say, did not kill or wound a single man. Major Jones had his horse shot under him. Respectfully submitted. THOS. ~. JORDAN, Colonel Ninth Pennsylvania Cavalry. Capt. J. SPEED PEAY, Assistant Adjutant-General. No. 5. Report of Lieut. Col. Edward Bloodgood, Twenty-second Wisconsin In fantry. IIDQRS. TWENTY-SECOND REGT. WISCoNsIN VOL. INFTY., Benton Barracks, Saint Louis, Mo., May 23, 1863. Sin: I have the honor to make the following report: - On March 25, the situation of my camp at Brentwood, Tenn., was as follows: According to orders, I had placed my camp as near the forks of the Wilson and Franklin pikes as would command those roads and the railroad store-house. Pickets were placed at proper distances upon the Franklin pike, south of the camp. The same on Wilson pike (south), - at the railroad store-house and through the woods (west), and also on the Franklin pike, about 100 yards north of the bridge, where the Frank- lin pike crosses the railroad. I had fallen trees on three sides, close to my camp, as a defense against a dash of cavalry by night. A detach- ment of the Nineteenth Michigan Regiment (infantry) was stationed at the stockades near the railroad bridge, about 1~ miles south from Brent- wood. On the morning of the above date, a messenger from the stockades rode into camp with information that the enemy were upon them, and were destroying the railroad. My command, comprising but about 400 effective men, was soon in line. Three companies were immediately directed to move forward to the assistance of those at the bridge; but after advancing but a short distance from camp, the enemy, in superior force, were discovered deploying from the pike into line of battle on both sides of the road, and moving upon us. I immediately deployed three companies, and placed them under charge of Major Smith, of ou Page 184 184 KY., MID. AND E. TENN., N. ALA., AND SW. VA. [CHAP. XXXV. regiment, and rode back to place the remaining three companies in position. I then endeavored to telegraph to Franklin, but found the wires had been cut both in front and rear. I then ordered two couriers to Nashville, to take the news of my attack, and ask for re-enforce. ments. Only one succeeded in getting ont. Whether he got through the enemys lines I never knew. At this time a flag of truce was sent by the enemy, announcing that General Forrest had surrounded ns with his entire command, demand- ing our unconditional surrender, and threatened to cut ns to pieces if we attempted resistance. Word was sent back to General Forrest to come and take us. Previous to this I had given orders to have the wagons loaded and moved toward Nashville, as I feared, from the supe- rior force of the enemy thus far developed, I might be compelled to fall back in that direction. The last wagon had not left the camp when those in front were stopped by the enemy. In the mean time the advance companies had opened fire upon the enemy. I had barely time to post the other companies before I discovered we were completely surrounded by the enemy in overwhelming force. I disposed of my men so as to keep them at bay as long as possible; but they advanced rapidly, press. ing me closely, and soon brought a battery of two pieces of artillery close up to my lines.. I had no artillery to keep them at bay; my posi. tion was without defense, natural or artificial, available for the protec. tion of my men. 1 had no hope of aid from any quarter. The force that surrounded me was evidently five to ten times my number. I was satisfied that in fifteen or twenty minutes we must be overwhelmed after great sacrifice of life, without, in consequence of our inferiority in num. bers and equipments, inflicting adequate injury on the enemy. I there- fore deemed it best for the interest of the service and bu men, to surrender, which I accoi~dingly did. justice to my The contest, from the opening of our fire up to the time the enemy had succeeded in surrounding me and was about bringing his artillery to bear, was from twenty-five to thirty minutes in duration. After my capture, I learned that the enemy had not attacked the force at the rail- road bridge before coming npon me, but had rode by it. They sur- rounded and took this force after my surrender. I then fonnd the enemys force to be three or four brigades of mounted infantry, number- ing from 5,000 to 8,000 men, under the command of Brigadier-General Forrest, General Armstrong, Colonel Starnes, and including an inde- pendent Arkansas regiment [Tennessee Cavalry Battalion], under the command of Major [E. J.] Sanders, all of which officers were on the field with their commands. Also at that time I learned that the enemy had sent a force to Nashville and Franklin to drive in our pickets. A body of our cavalry came up and made an ineffectual dash at the enemy some two hours after we were captured. Four of my command were wounded, and left upon the ground with two of our regimental surgeons. The loss of the enemy, so far as I learned, was 3 killed, including a lieutenant, and 5 wounded. The enemy, while in action, with the exception of a sufficient number acting as cavalry, were dismounted, and fought on foot. They had made a forced march during the night and came in through the country to the west of our camps and about a mile beyond our pickets. I was informed by General Forrest that he had captured a courier sent to me by Gen- eral Baird that morning, with orders to fall back immediately with my coinmand to INashyille, Tenn., but I did not see the courier among the captured. My command, after being taken, was marched to Tullahoma, Tenn., and there sent by rail to Richmond. The men were paroled ther Page 185 CHAP. XXXV.) ACTIONS AT BRENTWOOD, TENN., ETC. 185 and sent to Annapolis, Md. After being exchanged, with other officers, I had to go to the hospital at Annapolis, and from there was ordered to report to my regiment, at Benton Barracks, Saint Louis, Mo. All of which is respectfully submitted. I am, sir, yours, very respectfully, B. BLOODGOOD, Lient. Gol. Twenty-second Regiment Wisconsin Volunteers. Brig. Gen. A. BAIRD. No. 6. Reports of Brig. Gen. Robert B. Mitchell, U. S. Army. FORCES IN THE FIELD, March 25, 1863. GENERAL: A part of the Thirty-third Indiana, part of the Twenty- second Wisconsin Volunteers, and part of the Nineteenth Michigan Volunteers, numbering about 300, were all captured near 9 a. m. to-day; 5 killed and wounded. Rebels lost 6 killed. All Government property taken. General G. Clay Smith, with Second Michigan Cavalry, from Frank- lin, 12 miles the other side of Brentwood, attacked part of the rebel force, and drove them for 6 miles, where they joined the main force, commanded by Forrest, Wheeler, and Starnes. General Smith was obliged to fall back. He lost 4 officers and about 15 men in killed, wounded, and missing. General Smith recaptured all wagons and ambu- lances. Being hard pressed, he burned wagons and destroyed every- thing except ambulances, which were sent to Franklin. I met General Smith here; had 560 men. Rebel force about 5,000. Without 1,000 more cavalry at Nashville, the rebels can do anything outside of our pickets. ROBT. B. MITCHELL, Brigadier- General. General JAMES A. GARFIELD, Chief of Staff. HEADQUARTERS UNITED STATES FORCES, Nashville, Teun., March 25, 1863. GENERAL: I have just returned from Brentwood. About 10 this morning a courier arrived from there, bringing a verbal message that the enemy were surrounding the place. At 1.30 this p. m. I arrived at Brentwood with my immense cavalry force (about 180) and two regiments of infantry, withsection of artil- lery. Two more regiments of infantry in rear. My arrival was too late to enable me to effect anything, the enemy being mounted and 7 miles away before I reached Breutwood. The enemy had moved off heading toward Harpeth Shoals. General Smith, commanding cavalry brigade, having with him 560 men, came from Franklin and drove the enemy for nearly 6 miles, when they formed a junction with the main force nuder Forrest and Wheeler, and General Smith was forced to retire. I met him upon arriving at Brent- wood. From all I can learn concerning the affair, it was a very disgraceful one for the commanding officer of our forces (Lieutenant-Colonel Blood- good, Nineteenth Michigan [Twenty-second Wisco~usin] Volunteers). With a position easily reached from his encampment, he could have hel Page 186 186 KY., MID. AND E. TENN., N. ALA., AND- SW. VA. [CuAr. XXXV. the enemy, in almost any numbers, at bay till the arrival of re-enforce- ments; but, with a loss of 1 man killed and 4 wounded, he seems to have surrendered without an effort to change position or to make a resistance worthy the name of a fight. A detachment of the rebel forces, during the affair at Brentwood, drove away or captured 9 of the negro woodehoppers some 3 miles this side of Brentwood. The railroad bridge near Brentwood was burned. I have the honor to be, very respectfully, your obedient servant, ROBT. B. MITCHELL, Brigadier- Genera4 Commanding. Brig. Gen. JAMES A. GARFIELD, Chief of Staff. Return of Ca8uaZtLee in the Union forces engaged at Brentwood, Tenn., March 25, 1863. [Complledfrom nominal list of casualties, returns, & ci a ~ o ~ .~ a~ 5.5 -5 Command. ~A a ~ 0 ~ 19th Michigan 8 222 230 22d Wisconsin 3 18 51)0 521 Total ..... 3 26 722 751 L~ro. ~. Report of Brig. Gen. James B. Steedman, U. S. Army, commanding Third Division, Fourteenth Army Corps. IIDQES. THIRD DIVISION, FOURTEENTH ARMY CORPS, Triune, Tenn., March 26, 1863. GENERAL: From 1,500 to 2,000 of the enemys cavalry passed between Franklin and this point, between 2 and 3 oclock this morning, and cap- tured the garrison at Brentwood. My cavalry were at the ilarpeth, 4 miles in front of my position, during the night, and at Petersburg at 5.30 this morning, but I learned nothing of the enemys movement to- ward Brentwood until 9 a. m. I immediately went in the direction of the Wilson pike, with 400 cavalry, two regiments of infantry, and one section of artillery; but learning the enemy, after capturing our troops at Brentwood, had gone to the right of Franklin, my troops were ordered back to camp. I intend to go to Starnes Mill foraging to-morrow with 150 wagons, escorted by a brigade, and will most probably encounter some of the enemy~8 cavalry. My works are strong, and I can hold my present position against a force of 10,000. Respectfully, yours, JAMES B. STEEDMAK, Brigadier- General, Commanding Third Division. Brig. Gen. JAMES A. GARFIELD, Asst. Adjt. (len. and Chief of Staff, Dept. of the clumberland Page 187 CHAr. XXXV.] ACTIONS AT BRENTWO@D, TENN., ETC. 187 No.8. Report of General Braxton Bragg, C. S. Army. TULLAHOMA, ]Jlarch 27, 1863. (Received at Richmond, Ya., March 28, 1863.) General Van iDorn reports Forrest made a successful visit to Brent- wood with his division; burned the bridge, destroyed and took all prop- erty and arms, and captured 800 prisoners, including 35 officers. Lost 3 men killed and 5 wounded.* BRAXTON BRAGG. General S. COOPER, Adjutant and Inspector General. No. 9. Report of Brig. Gen. Nathan B. Forrest, C. S. Army, commanding First Division, First Cavalry Corps. IIDQRS. FIRST DIVISION, FIRST CAVALRY CORPS, April 1, 1863. MAJOR: I respectfully submit the following report of expedition to Brentwood: On the 24th nltimo I ordered Colonel [J. W.] Starnes, commanding Second Brigade, to proceed with his command in the direction of Brent- wood, leaving Franklin on the left and crossing ilarpeth River at Half- Acre Mill, 6 miles east of Franklin, and to pass through fields and by- roads thence to Breutwood, ordering him to throw out a sqnadron on the pike and railroad between Brentwood and Franklin, cutting the telegraph wires, and tearing np the track of the railroad, sending two regiments forward to attack the stockade, and posting the balance of the Third [Fourth] Tennessee Regiment so as to cut off any retreat of the enemy toward Nashville and Triune. He was ordered to bring on the attack at daylight on the 25th, at which time I was to join him with Gen- eral Armstrongs brigade, with the Tenth Tennessee Cavalry, tempora- rily attached to his brigade, which marched on Brentwood via Hills- borough and the ilillsborough pike. I failed to reach Brentwood with General Armstrongs command at the appointed hour, owing to delay in getting the artillery across Harpeth River. I arrived there, however, at 7 oclock in the morning, sending one squadron of the Tenth Regiment down the Hillsborongh pike to protect my rear, and another to the left and rear of Brentwood to prevent any retreat of the enemy toward Nash- ville, and give me timely information of any re-enforcements from Nash- ville. With the other six companies of the Tenth Tennessee and my escort, I moved to the right of the road running from llillsborough pike to Brentwood, ordering General Armstrong, with his brigade and a sec- tion of Freemans artillery, to move to the left of that, and attack the Federals at Brentwood. After disposing of my troops as stated, I moved rapidly on with my escort to the Franklin pike, capturing a courier with a dispatch to the commander of the Federal forces at Franklin, as king for help. I found ~See General Braggs congratulatory order, p. 118 Page 188 188 KY., MID. AND E. TENN., N. ALA., AND SW. VA. [CHAP. XXXV. the enemy had thrown out his skirmishers on the pike and on th& surrounding hills. A flag of truce was sent in, demanding an imme- diate and unconditional surrender. The colonel commanding replied that we must come and take him. By this time the other six companies of the Tenth Tennessee, commanded by Major [William B.] De Moss, had arrived at the pike. He was ordered to dismount his men and at. tack in front, while messengers were sent to General Armstrong to move np and open upon them with his artillery iu the left and rear. Major De Moss promptly attacked them. As soon as this was done, with my escort I moved rapidly to the right of the pike, and, gaining a high position, found the enemy were preparing to make their escape toward Nashville. My escort was ordered to advance to the pike and engage them. By this time the firing in front between the enemy and Major IDe Moss be. came general. The enemy haa been driven inside of their works, and I ordered my escort to charge them. Just as this order was given, and General Armstrong had taken position on the left, the enemy hoisted a white flag, and surrendered, with all their arms, wagons, baggage, and equipments. I ordered General Armstrong to send off the prisoners, arms, wagons, & c., as quickly as possible to the llillsborough pike, and to destroy by fire all the tents, camp equipage, & c., that could not be transported. With the Fourth Mississippi Cavalry and, the Tenth Tennessee and the pieces of artillery, I moved on the stockade at the bridge across ilarpeth River, about 2 miles south of Breutwood. After getting position and firing one gun, they surrendered. We captured there 275 prisoners, 11 wagons, 3 ambulances, with all their arms and equipments. We moved off as soon as possible to the Hilisborough pike, after de- stroying the railroad bridge and all the tents and supplies which could not be removed. Before leaving Brentwood to attack the stockade, I ordered Colonel [J. II.] Lewis, of the First [Sixth] Tennessee Cavalry, to dash down the pike with his command toward Nashville. He ran their pickets in at Browns Creek, capturing some negroes and a sutlers wagon within 3 miles of the city. He there turned to the left with his regiment, making a circuit around Nashville from the Franklin to the Charlotte pike. Before the rear of my command reached the Hilisborough pike, they were attacked by a force of Federal cavalry. They succeeded in getting possession of several of the wagons captured at the stockade, and cut out and stampeded the mules. As soon as the lines were formed, the enemy were repulsed and driven back to Breutwood; but having no harness or mules for them, several of the wagons were burned, and not knowing what forces might be marching on us, I deemed it expedient to move off with the prisoners as rapidly as possible. I will here remark that Colonel Starnes reached the stockade at day. light; but, not knowing the force of the enemy, and being without ar- tillery, and ignorant of the whereabouts of my portion of the command, moved over to the Hilisborough pike, where he remained until after the capture was made. I refer you to official report of killed and wounded on our side, which is very small indeed. The enemy lost about 15 killed and 30 wounded and 800 prisoners. We captured and brought away 3 ambulances and harness, 9 six-horse wagons and harness, 2 two-horse wagons and har. ness, 00 mules, and 6 horses, which were placed in charge of Major [N. C.] Jones, assistant quartermaster First Brigade, who was ordered to turn them over to quartermaster at Columbia. Many of the men in th Page 189 CHAP. XXXV.] ACTIONS AT BRENTWOOD, TENN., ETC. 189 command who were unarmed got guns on the field, and many who had inferior guns, muskets, shot-guns, & c.,. exchanged them on the field, placing (or, at any rate, so ordered) their old g~ins in the wagons in lieu of them. I ordered Colonel [J. II.] Edmondsens regiment and [E. J.] Sanders battalion to take charge of the prisoners and wagons, and proceed direct to Columbia, via Wililainsport. With the balance of the division I moved toward Spring Hill, regulating my march so as to keep on the flank of the commands with the prisoners, so as to meet promptly any attempt at recapture by the enemys forces at Franklin. Respectfully submitted. N. B. FORREST, Brigadier. General. No. 10. Return of Casualties, C. ~ forces. [Compiled from nominal list.] Killed. Wounded. Captured or missing. Ci Command. CS . CS . . o CS a a an o ~ C ~ 0 ~ First Brigade: 4th Mississippi . 1 4 11 16 Second Brigade: - 9th [19th] Tennessee 2 3 .. 5 10th Tennessee 1 1 2 19 23 11th Tennessee 1 2 . . . . 3 Swingleys squadron 1 2 9 12 Total 1 3 3 13 39 59 No. 11. Report of Brig. Gen. Frank C. Armstrong, C. ~3. Army, commanding First Brigade, First Division. HEADQUARTERS FIRST BRIGADE, FIRST DIVISION, ~pring Hill, Teun., April 6, 1863. CAPTAIN: In accordance with instructions from division headquarters, I have the honor to inclose the reports of the several regiments of my brigade engaged at Brentwood. The reports show what part was taken by each regiment. I have no report to make, except to state that the captures were all made by my brigade, with [N. N.] Coxs Tenth Tennessee Regiment temporarily attached; that no other brigade was present. I have the honor to be, with respect, your obedient servant, FRANK C. ARMSTRONG, Brigadier.General. Captain [C. W.] ANDERSON, Assistant Adjutant. General Page 190 190 KY., MID. AND B. TENN., N. ALA., AND SW. VA. (CHAP. XXXV. No. 12. Report of Got. James Gordon, Fourth Mississippi Cavalry. MAE CII 28, 1863. GENERAL: In pursuance of orders from brigade headquarters to re- port the part performed by the Fourth iReghuent Mississippi Cavalry in the expedition to Brentwood Station, I report as follows, viz: I moved with the division on the 24th instant, under Generals [N. B.] Forrest and [F. C.] Armstrong, and reached the neighborhood of Brent- wood about 8 a. m. of the 25th instant. My regiment was left as a rear guard, and I remained a half mile in the rear when the camp of the enemy was attacked. After its surrender, I was ordered to move for- ward, but to leave a strong rear guard. I left Captain [J. J.] Perry in command of Companies B, C, F, and I, and moved forward at a gallop with Companies D, G, II, and K. I followed the column in front of me, which formed in line of battle on the Franklin pike. General Forrest ordered me to move off by the right flank, and move in rear of a s~tock- ade fort which was in front of us. rhe general led the advance in per- son, followed by one piece of artillery and my squadrons. I formed in line of battle in rear of the fort. The gun was unlimbered, and, after the firing of one shot, the fort surrendered. I wasthen ordered by Gen- eral Forrest to burn the railroad bridge and destroy the enemys camps, & c. I loaded all the wagons, ambulances, & c., with arms and army stores, and sent them off, under a guard, as rapidly as possible. After everything was removed or destroyed, I moved off, but had not pro- ceeded over a mile when I learned that the enemy were close upon my rear. I halted Company D, commanded by Lieut. H. L. P. McGee, and gave the enemy a very effective fire, which emptied a number of sad- dles and checked them until I could form again on the next hill, and gave them another fire from Captains [John] Gaddis and [J. T.] Pitts companies, the latter commanded by Lieutenant [J.Y.] Smith. I then formed Lieutenant McGees command (on foot) behind a stone fence, and gave them another volley. The enemy here charged me while my guns were empty, and I was forced to make a precipitate retreat. The enemys fire was very close and severe at this point. I lost 20 men killed, wounded, and captured. How many were killed, if any, I cannot say. There were 5 wounded that I know of, 4 of whom were captured. Captain [J. B.] Hall, whose company had been sent off in squads with his lieutenants with the wagons, remained himself with about a dozen men, until he received a painful wound through the foot. Had my full command been present, or if the regiment in front of me had halted and assisted me, I have no doubt but that the enemy might have been easily repulsed. With a handful of men, I gave them three fires, two of which checked them long enough for me to reload and form. And after the third volley, I am mortified to confess, I was forced, by overwhelming numbers, to become a part and parcel of the disgraceful number who stampeded in front of me without ever firing a gun. My thanks are due Lieutenant McGee for the coolness and skill dis- played by himself and command under the, most disadvantageous cir- cumstances. My thanks are also due to Captain Swingley (I believe), of [N. N.] Coxs regiment, who in vain attempted to assist me, but could not stop his men, although my regiment contested every inch of ground until pressed by the foe and not a loaded gun left. The censure, by other commands, of stampeding, falls heavily upon it. With a con- sciousness of having performed my duty, and confident that justice wil Page 191 CHAr. XXXV.] ACTIONS AT BRENTWOOD, TENN., ETC. 1~I yet be done my regiment, 1 leave its fame in the hands of my command ing general. After the retreat of the enemy, I moved on with the command, and reached Spring Hill on the evening of the 26th ultimo. Very respectfully, JAMES GORDON, Colonel, Comdg. Fourth Regiment Mississippi Cavalry. Brig. Gen. FRANK C. ARMsTRONG, Comdg. 1st Brig., 1st Div. No. 13. Report of Lieut. C~oi. James H. Lewis, First [Sixth] Tennessee Cavalry. MARCH 28,1863. GENERAL: In obedience to orders received, I have the honor to forward to you a report of the part taken by the regiment nnde~r my command at Brentwood and around Nashville. We were not engaged with the enemy at Brentwood, but were present at the capture. Immediately after the enemys surrender, I was ordered by Adjutant and Inspector General [Assistant Adjutant-General] [Sam- uel M.] Hyams, jr., to report to you, which I did, and by your order re- ported to General [N. B.] Forrest, who directed me to move rapidly in the direction of Nashville from Brentwood; if possible, capture a lot of 150 negroes, and other property I might find that belonged to the enemy, and drive in their pickets, & c. I moved rapidly in the direction of Nashville found that ~he enemy had been notified of the attack upon Breutwood; their pickets had been alarmed, and upon our approach fled. A portion of the regiment galloped up within 2~ or 3 miles of Nashville, in plain view of the enemys encampment near the city; captured a sutler of One hundred and thirteenth Ohio, 1 two-horse wagon and team, and 10 negroes, who were in possession of the enemy. I then moved across to the Charlotte pike, making half the circuit of Nashville across the dif- ferent turnpike roads, at a distance of 3~- to 5 miles from Nashville; had a plain view of the city and capitol, and moved down the Charlotte turn- pike to a point 8 miles from Nashville, near the Cumberland River, where I remained from 3 p. m. until 9 p. in., momentarily expecting the arrival of yourself with General Forrest, who had informed me that they would certainly come to that point. Hearing nothing from you, I moved ofi~ at 9p. in., and arrived here yesterday, 27th instant, with all the prop- erty captured. No loss to the regiment, except the bad condition of horses. I have the honor to be, your obedient servant, JAS. H. LEWIS, Lieutenant-Colonel, Commanding First [Sixth] Tennessee Cavalry. Brigadier-General [FRANK C.] ARMSTRONG, Commanding First Cavalry Brigade. No. 14. Report of ]Jfaj. William E. De Moss, Tenth Tennessee Cavalry. CAMP NEAR SPRING HILL, TENK., March 28, 1863. SIR: Being temporarily attached to your brigade, I have the honor to make the following report of the part enacted by the Tenth Tennesse Page 192 192 KY., MID. AND B. TENN., N. ALA., AND SW. VA. (Onir. XXXV~ Cavalry, in the engagement with the enemy at Breutwood and vicinity, on the 25th instant: After a disagreeable march of some 18 miles from ilillsborough, on the morning of the 25th we arrived in the vicinity of Brentwood about 8 a. in., when our regiment was detached from your brigade and marched, under the direction of General [N. B.] Forrest, to the right on to the pike leading from Brentwood to Franklin, and we struck this pike half a mile south of the enemys encampment. Here the enemys in- fantry were discovered in force in a skirt of timber on the left of the pike. A refusal was given to the demand for surrender, made by General For- rest. Our regiment, being drawn up in line of battle, was ordered to dismount and engage the enemy immediately. This was promptly done, and a brisk fire opened upon him, partially protected as he was by the trees and undergrowth on the slopes opposite the encampments. Our fire was replied to with animation, but our men continued to advance rapidly upon the foe, driving him from his shelter to within the breast- works, where he surrendered in about thirty minutes from the first fire. Here some 500 men yielded to the Tenth Regiment. We were immedi- ately ordered to mount and march upon the stockade fort, 1~ miles on the railroad, in the direction of Franklin. Upon arriving in range of the fort, I ordered my men to dismount, and, not being apprised of the fact that Major [C. W.] Anderson was in negotiation (under a flag of truce) on the subject of a surrender, I ordered a fire to be opened upon the enemy outside of the fortifications. A few rounds were given without eliciting a reply, when a shell was thrown from Captain [S. L.] Free- mans battery, and speedily a white flag was discovered, and about 200 of the enemy surrendered. There were captured in all some 12 or 15 wagons and teams, 4 ambu- lances, and a considerable quantity of arms, army stores, and medical supplies. No regiment, except the Tenth, took any active part in either engagement, that I am aware of. After destroying the camp equipage and whatever else that could not be brought off, we were ordered to bring up the rear. Through the en- treaties of Surgeon [Julius] Johnson, our regiment was detained a few minutes to procure an ambulance and get off the wounded. This was accomplished, and, after proceeding something like 2 miles from the scene of action, suddenly and unexpectedly a cry was raised that the enemy were firing upon our rear, by a company of stragglers from other commands, who came dashing headlong through our regiment, causing the greatest disorder and confusion. Steps were taken as soon as pos- sible to form a line and prepare for the reception of the foe, but very soon the panic spread over the whole regiment, and all efforts of the officers were unavailing to get any considerable number in battle array. Among the most conspicuous in rallying and encouraging the troops should be mentioned Capt. Thomas [S.] Easley, Company G, who dis- played most signal presence of mind and courage, and who, in company with Lieuts. [J. T.] Crews and B. [A.] Powell, Privates John Sargent, Sullivan, and Caswell Cock (of Captain Swingleys squadron), and others, whose names cannot now be recollected, under charge of our gallant Adjutant [E. A.] Spotswood, remained firm and undaunted, and joined in the column, led on by General Forrest, in routing and pursu- ing the enemy within sight of the burning tents of Breutwood. Our loss, as appears from the surgeons report, is slight. First Lieut. A. F. Nesbitt, Company E. the only man killed, fell, gallantly leading his men in the attack on Breutwood. Five were wounded and 31 miss- ing of the regiment Page 193 CHAP. XXXYX ACTIONS AT BRENTWOOD, TENN., ETC. 193 Of Captain Swingleys squadron (temporarily attached to our regi- ment), 2 were wounded and 18 are missing. Of all the missing it were fair to conclude that not more than a,fifth or sixth fell into the hands of the enemy. Respectfully submitted. WM. E. DE MOSS, Major, Commanding Tenth Regiment Tennessee Cavalry. Major [S. M.] IIYAMS, Jr., Assistant Adjutant-General, Armstrongs Brigade of Cavalry. No. 15. Report of 6ol. James W. Starnes, Third [Fourth] Tennessee Cavalry, commanding Second Brigade. HEADQUARTERS SECOND BRIGADE, FIRST DIVISION, Near Spring Hill, April 6, 1863. In obedience to orders, I left camp on the evening of March 24, with Colonel [J. B.] Biffies regiment, part of Colonel [J. II.] Edmondsons, and the Third [Fourth] Tennessee Cavalry Regiment, under command of Captain [William S.] McLemnore, moving to the right of Franklin and crossing ilarpeth River 6 miles above at Davis Mill simultaneously with General [N. B.] Forrest, who passed with the remainder of his division to the left of Franklin. It being intended to make a concerted attack on the Abolition command at Little ilarpeth Bridge and their forces at Brentwood, I crossed the river at about midnight, and sent forward 15 men to capture the enemys pickets and couriers. In attempting this, Sergt. Thomas R. Tulloss and Private William W. Ozbnrn, of the Third Tennessee Regimenf, were wounded, the detachment capturing 4 of the enemys horses. At 2.30 a. m. I passed on to the Wilson turnpike, and turned down it in the direction of Brentwood, after sending one squadron to destroy the railroad track near Mallorys Station, and cut the telegraph wires, which they did very effectually, and afterward remained on picket on the Franklin turnpike, at Hollytree Gap. I sent forward six companies, under command of Captain [P. II.] McBride, to take position behind tWe top of a hill some 350 yards east of the enemys encampment, to be ready for the attack according to your order. I then left Colonel Ed- mondson with his command on the hill at Benjamin Smiths blacksmith shop, to guard my rear, as my rear guard had informed me that we were followed by some Yankee cavalry. After making these arrangements, I left the turnpike with the remainder of my command, and passed across a field to a thicket, about 400 yards distant from the enemys encamp. ment, and there awaited the arrival of General Forrest nntil 7.30 oclock. Owing to the weakened condition of my command, I did not deem it prudent to attack the stockade without artillery, as it was of great strength against small-arms, and I did not think that its capture would compensate for the loss that I would sustain in taking it. Having given out [up] General Forrest, I moved across to the Hills- borough turnpike without meeting him, and found that he had passed on early in the morning. I remained where he left the Hillsborough turnpike for Breutwood until the arrival of General [F. C.] Armstrongs brigade and Major [William E.] De Moss regiment, who halted there with the prisoners. While there I was informed by my pickets that there 13 It UVOL XXIII~ rT Page 194 194 KY., MID. AND. E. TENN., N. ALA., AND SW. VA. [CHAP. XXXV. was a foraging train about 2 miles down the turnpike, and took Colonel [J. B.] Biffie, with four companies of his regiment and four companies of the Third [Fourth] Tennessee Regiment, and went in pursuit of them. Finding after going about 3 miles that it was a wood train and unat- tended, I halted all but two companies that went forward after it. Half an hour after sending the two companies forward, a courier informed me that the enemy had followed us and that fighting was going on. After sending for the two companies that had gone forward, I returned with all possible speed, and on coming in sight found that our forces were falling back rapidly and the enemy following them with great vigor on horse- back and on foot. I moved the force I had with me rapidly on the enemys right, and charged them with considerable vigor, which cansed them to fall back to their position on the hill with great precipitation. They soon rallied, and commenced to deploy for another attack, and I dismounted Colonel Bifiles regiment and part of the Third [Fourth] Tennessee Regiment and moved on them; but finding they were falling back too rapidly to be followed on foot, I made a flank movement on their right wing with three companies under Captain Allison, pouring a heavy fire into their right and rear. They were retreating very rapidly when General Forrest ordered us to return. The casualties on our side were very slight, having been stated in a report of killed, wounded, and missing. Respectfully snbmitted. J. W. STARKES, (olonel, Gonnnanding Second Brigade. Maj. C. W. ANDERSON, Assistant Adjutant-General. NARCH 25, 1863.Affair with Union gunboats near Florence, Ala. Report of Cot. George C. Dibrell, Eighth [Thirteenth] Tennessee ~Javalry. SPRING HILL, TENN., April 11, 1863. In obedience to an order issued by General [B.] Bragg, the Eighth [Thirteenth] Tennessee Cavalry was ordered by General [N. B.] Forrest to move rapidly to Florence and Tuscumbia, Ala., to protect the seveyal manufacturing establishments in that section and prevent the destruc- tion of the same.. The Eighth [Thirteenth] moved on February 24, with Captain [J. W.] Mortons battery. Before reaching Florence, Col. [F. IMI.] Burdino [Cor- nyn], with a force of United States cavalry, had been up as far as Tus- cumbia, doing much damage, but had retired to Corinth before our arrival. We were much embarrassed on account of heavy rains and high waters, but, with the aid of a steamboat sent down from Decatur to Lambs Ferry, we crossed the Tennessee and marched to Tuscumbia and Bear Creek, but too late to overtake the enemy. We then recrossed the Tennessee River, and established our camp at Florence, Ala., keep- ing pickets and scouts well out down the river, as far as Eastport, and scouting as far as Waynesborough and Savannah. On the morning of April [March~] 25, our scouts reported three wooden gunboats ascending the Tennessee above Savannah. We placed a strong picket to guard a factory 10 miles below Florence, who had a lively skir- mish with a force that landed from the gunboats. I had started down to re-enforce them with the main part of the regiment and Captain Mo Page 195 CHAP. XXXV.] AFFAIR WITH GUNBOATS NEAR FLORENCE, ALA. 195 tons battery, when we discovered two of the gunboats ascending near Tuscumbia Landing. I immediately ordered Maj. [Jeffrey E.] Forrest, with five companies and one piece of Mortons artillery, back to our works at Florence, and with three companies and the other gun, under Lieu- tenant [T. S.] Sale, reached the river below the gunboats, when we opened fire upon them with small-arms and shell. As soon as they dis- covered our artillery was below them, they turned down stream and left in great haste. It is proper to state that General [S. A. M.] Wood, with Colonel [M. W.] ilannons regiment, was pouring volley after volley into the boats from the opposite side. We continued to scout and picket without serious difficulty until we received orders to return to the command on March 26,1863. It affords me great pleasure to add to this report the proceedings of a public meeting held iu Florence by the leading citizens of the place, testifying to our good conduct while stationed at that place, when they learned we had been ordered away, to wit: At a meeting of the citizens of Florence, Ala., held at the court-house on the 27th day of March, 1863, Hon. R. M. Patton was called to the chair, and W. .1. Tapp ap- pointed secretary. On motion of R. W. Walker, a committee of five was appointed to report suitable resolutions expressing the sense of this meeting. The chair appointed the following gentlemenHon. R. W. Walker, Col. T. L. Chishoim, Hon. B. F. Foster, B. F. Kaisure, esq., and Capt. J. L. Slosson said committee, who made the following report: Whereas we have learned that the cavalry regiment under command of Col. G. G. Dibrell, which has been stationed at this point for several weeks past, has been or- dered to report for duty elsewhere; and whereas we, the citizens of Florence, are de- sirous of testifying in some form to the officers and men of said regiment the favorable impression they have made upon this community, and our higlf~ense of their unex- ceptionable deportment and uniform good conduct during their stay among us: Therefore, Resolved, That this community has heard with sincere regret that orders have been issued for the removal from this place of the Eighth [Thirteenth] Tennessee Cavalry, under command of Col. G. G. Dibrell, now stationed here. Resolved, That the admirable discipline enforced by the officers of said regiment, the orderly deportment of the men, their freedom from dissipation and violence, and strict respect for the rights and feelings of private citizens, furnish a complete refu- tation of the slander that the Confederate cavalry are always disorderly and licen- tious; and we feel that we express the universal sentiment of our community when we say that no equal number of troops in the Confederate Army could have given more general satisfaction to our people or have inspired greater confidence in this con~imunity. Resolved That for their marked of conduct, their uniform order, and propriety good gentlemanly bearing while stationed in our town, the members of said regiment are fairly entitled to, and we hereby tender them, the special and grateful thanks of this community; and we beg to assure both the officers and men of the regiment that we shall see them leave our town with the sincerest regret, and that wherever the for- tunes of war may carry them hereafter they will always he kindly remembered by this community, and our best wishes for their health, safety, and success will always ac- company them. Resolved, That the chairman of this meeting communicate a copy of these resolu- tions to Colonel Dibrell, with the request that he have them read to his regiment. The foregoing resolutions were unanimously adopted, and the meeting adjourned. R. M. PATTON, Chairman. W. J TAPP, Secretary. We did not leave Florence until the 10th instant, and arrived yester- day. I am, major, yours, respectfully, G. G. DIBBELL, Colonel Eighth [Thirteenth] Tennessee Cavalry. Maj. J. P. STRANGE, Assistant Adjutant- General Page 196 196 KY., MID. AND E. TENN., N. ALA., AND SW. YA. [CUAr. XXXV. NAUCH 2526, 1863.Skirmishes near Louisa, Ky. Report of Brig. Gem. Julius White, U. S. Army. IIE4DQUAIITERS EASTERN DISTRICT OF KENTUCKY, Louis , Ky., March 30, 1863. COLONEL: I have the honor to report that on the evening of the 24th instant I was informed that the enemy was advancing on this place, being distant 20 miles, on the West Liberty road, at sunset. I imme- diately ordered a reconnaissance by c vairy, under the immediate charge of Col. G. W. Gallup, of the Fourteenth Kentucky Infantry, who met the enemy 10 miles~ out, advancing rapidly, with an evident intention of surprising this command at or before daylight of the next morning. A short skirmish ensued, after which both parties halted till morning, when the enemy resuned the adv nce, the detachment under Colonel Gallup, in obedience to uy orders, falling back, skirmishing with the enemy toward the po~ition I had selected for defense, and where dur- ing the morning I had placed my artillery in position (four 6-pounders) and made such dispositions of the troops as w s iu my opinion best. The enemy appeared in sight, just outside the range of my guns, at about 3 p. m. of the 25th, and, after reconnoitering my posi~ion, went into camp. During the night of the 25th, desultory firing was kept up between the outposts, the enemy, as I supposed, endeavoring to effect lodgment as near as possible on the right flank of my line with a view to a general attack at daylight on the 26th. No demonstration having been made, however, I ordered a reconnaissance, which showed that the enemy had retired. After ordering the cavalry and I)art of the Thirty- ninth Kentucky Mounted Infantry in pursuit, with directions to attack and harass the rear guard of the enemy if overtiken, but to refrain from attack,if the whole force should be present, till the remainder of my command could i-each supporting distance, I PrCi)arcd the latter with three days rations, loaded all the spare mules and horses with forage, and moved out with all m ~ avoilable force to the attack. T~caching a point about 10 miles distant, I learned from the advance that the enemy had encamped 20 miles out the night previous, and had taken np the line of march again. Being all mounted, the pursuit by infantry, which constituted a large part of my COI marmd, was hopeless, especially as my men had been under arms most of tLe time for fort reight hours. I then countermarched the command and returned to camp. The enemy numbered by actual count between 1,700 and 1,800, all mounted in- fantry. My force consisted of about 750 effectives, exclusive of the Sec. ond Battalion Tenth Kentucky Cavalry, which, being armed only with pistols and sabers, is in this mountainous region comparatively useless, except for guard or outpost duty. The enemy, dismounting, take the steep, broken hillsides, which are inaccessible for cavalry, and, keeping out of pistol range, render light cavalry little more than spectators. The conduct of the troops under my command was in all respects sat- isfactory. The skirmishing which occurred demonstrated to the- enemy that he would not obtain possession of our position ithout a severe struggle. Among officers whose conduct was admirable, I deem it proper to mention Col. G. W. Gallup, Fourteenth Kentucky; Major [II.] Rice, First Squadron Ohio Volunteer Cavalry, and Captains [C. S.] Rogers and [L. M.] Clark, of the Tenth Kentucky Cavalry, who fully evinced the quali. Ilcations requisite to gallant and efficient o~cers Page 197 ChAr. XXXV.] SKIRMISH ON THE WOODBURY PIKE, TENI~. 197. Our loss is I killed, 2 wounded, and 4 missing. prisoners captured on picket duty by the enemys advance and paroled by Marshall. The loss of the enemy is reported to me by citizens living on their line of retreat at 7 killed and over 20 wounded. We took bat 1 prisoner. Marshall is now at Paintville, about 40 miles up the Sandy River from here. He has been joined since his retreat by 500 men under [A. J.] May and Janes, and will soon be strengthened by about 800 more, under [Benjamin E.] Caudill, from Breathitt County. The roads will soon be in condition so that he can move artillery, when he will move again on this place. Such is the latest information I have, which comes from sources that have heretofore proved truthful. I shall endeavor to be ready for him. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, JULIUS WHITE, Brigadier- General, Gommanding. Col. LEWIS 1tIcH~IoNn, Assistant A~jut ant- General, Department of the Ojtio. MARCH 27, 1863.Skirmish on the Woodbury Pike, Tenn. IREPO1~TS. No. 1.Col. William B. H~zen, Forty-first Ohio Infantry, commanding brigade. No. 2.Maj. Charles B. Seidel, Third Ohio Cavalry. No. 3.Col. Baxter Smith, Fourth [Eighth] Tennessee Cavalry. No. 1. Report of Gol. William B. Hazen, Forty-first Ohio infantry, commanding brigade. HEADQUARTERS SECOND BRIGADE, March 27, 1863. GENERAL: The cavalry you sent out to-day have had a fight with two regiments of cavalry near Burtons, on the Woodbury pike. Lost 1 officer and 10 men. Considerable loss to the enemy. W. B. HAZEN, Colonel, Commanding Second Brigade. Brig. Gen. JAlviEs A. GARFIELD, Chief of Staff. No. 2. Report of iiJiaj. Charles. B. Seidel, Third Ohio 6~avalry. HDQRS. SECOND BATTALION, THIRD OHIO VOL. CAY., Readyville, March 28, 1803. DEAR SIR: On the evening of March 27, I was ordered to take my battalion and advance on the Woodbury pike, to observe the enemys movements, who was reported advancing on to our lines, and, if possi- ble, to check his advance. I had advanced but a short distance on th Page 198 198 KY., MID. AND E. TENN., N. ALA., AND SW. YA. [CHAr. XXXV. above-named pike when I ran against a squad of rebel cavalry, num- bering about 50 men. I at once attacked them, and in a short time had them fleeing before me. I had driven them about 1~ miles, when they were re-enforced. My advance had already engaged them, when I saw a force advancing on my left. I immediately gave orders to fall back. We had retired but a short distance when my advance gave me intelli- gence I was cut off. I immediately brought my men in line of battle, and at the same time was vigorously attacked by Colonel [Baxter] Smith, who commanded in person. We returned their fire, and, knowing that I had no time to lose whatever, gave the command to draw saber and charge, which was bravely done by my men. The enemy received our charge with their pistols, but being too vigorously attacked, fled in every direc- tion. I then having accomplished my object, rallied my men and pur- sued the fleeing foe, when I saw the enemys reserve charging down the pike on me; but, taking the offensive with a small number of men, I repulsed his charges three times, and, by falling back carefully, took all my men safely into camp, with the exception of 10 enlisted men and Lieutenant [S. J.] ilansey, of Company F, whom, I suppose, were cap- tured by the ~nemy~5 reserve. We took about the same number of pris- oners, including a major, but being to9 far from camp and not able to get re-enforcements, were obliged to give them up again. The enemys loss must have been very heavy, for I saw as many as 20 horses without riders. The rebel force, to the best of my judgment, numbered about 400 men, while I had only 65 men. My men deserve much praise for their bravery. Respectfully, your obedient servant, CHAS. B. SEIDEL, Major, Gomdg. Second Battalion Third Ohio Volunteer Gavalry. Col. J. W. PARAMORE, Commanding Second Cavalry Brigade. [Indorsement] HEADQUARTERS CAVALRY, April 1, 1863. Respectfully forwarded. The gallant conduct of the major and his little command is com- mended. The attention of the general commanding is called to it. The question is raised whether these cavalrymen are altogether treated fairly. Could not an infantry support have saved us the loss of a lieutenant and 6 good men I It appears to me that cavalry patrols in a country of copse and thicket should be used with more discretion than they have been at the post of Readyville. D. ~. STANLEY, Major- General. No. 3. Report of Col. Baxter Smith, Fourth [Bighth] Tennessee ~Javalry. WOODEURY, March 27, 186311 a. m. GENERAL: I moved out from camp this morning at 2 oclock, on two roads, to attack the enemys cavalry, who have been in the habit of send- ing scouts up the pike. Lieutenant-Colonel [Paul F.] Anderson drew the enemy out on the pike, and I fell in their rear with a squadron, an Page 199 CRAP. XXXV.] SKIRMISH NEAR FRANKLIN, TENN. 199 we had a brisk skirmish with them for about an hour. We captured a first lieutenant and 12 or 15 men, and sent them to General Wheeler. They lost 1 killed and some wounded; I dont know the number. We followed them to within 1 mile of Readyville, and then returned slowly to camp. The amount bf picketing and other duty leaves me but few men to operate with. I had I man wounded. Captain [J. M.J Phillips was taken prisoner and subsequently recaptured, after having his horse killed and having a slight saber scratch. Had several horses killed and wounded, myself. No other loss. No news from * * * Yours, & c., [BAXTER SMITH.] Brig. Gen. J. A. WHARTON, Commanding Cavalry Division, Unionville. P. S.Captain [C. H.] Ingles desires that you send him an order for discharge for Private James A. Cole, of his company, who was detailed in the ordnance department January 20, 1862, at Knoxville, and has not been with the company since. Adjutant [M. H.] Boyston suggested this course to Captain Ingles. MARCH , 1863.Skirmish at Madisonville, Ky. Report of Cot. John W. Foster, Si ty-fifth indiana Infantry. HEADQUARTERS, flenderson, Ky., March 30, 1863. GENERAL: Lieutenant [G. W.] Carey, of my command, reports a corn- pany of 50 guerrillas in vicinity of Madisonville. He attacked them, and captured 6 of the party. I have out a force sufficient to drive them out. Guerrilla bands are increasing in my district. Am anxious that my horses should be sent down as speedily as possible. I will be vigi- lant in preventing concentrating and organizing. JOHN W. FOSTER, Colonel, Commanding. Brig. Gen. J. T. BOYLE. MARCH 31, 1863.Skirmish near Franklin, Tenn. Report of ltiliaj. Gen. Gordon Granger, U. S. Army. FRANKLIN, TENN., March 31, 1863. GENERAL: Our cavalry moved out on the Lewisburg and Columbia pike to-day, encountering the rebels some 7 miles out, and, skirmishing for several hours, took 5 prisoners from them. I learn that Van Dorn is still in our front, and that a part of his force is somewhere on a scout. Can learn nothing of rebel movements in any quarter. Orders were given last night for cooking four days rations for a scout. Jackson, Armstrong, and Cosby were in front to-day. G. GRANGEII, Major- General. General W. S. ROSECRANS Page 200 200 KY., MID. AND E. TENN., N. ALA., AND SW. VA. (OnAr. XXXV. MARCH 31APRIL 1, 1863.Skirmishes near Eagleville, Teun. Report of Brig. Gen. James B. ,S1teedman, U. ~3. Army. HDQRS. THIRD DIVISION, FOURTEENTH Aiu~iY CORPS, Triune, Tenn., April 1, 1863. GENERAL: I have the honor to report that on yesterday, in a skir- mish with the enemys cavalry, the mounted battalion of the First Bri- gade had 4 men captured and 3 wounded. The loss of the enemy, it is believed, was fully equal to ours, but we have no means of knowing accurately what it was. This morning, snpposing the enemy would in- crease his force and attempt to draw my men in, I ordered out two regi. ments of infantry, with a section of artillery, to march across the country from our camp, to strike the Shelbyville pike south of Eagleville, and sent 200 mounted men on the pike. Unfortunately, Colonel Walker approached the pike on the north side of Eagleville, immediately in front of a regiment of rebel cavalry, who were frightened off at the sight of the infantry. Had the colonel gone 1 mile farther before he approached the pike, as I directed him to do, the expedition would have been a suc- cess, and resulted in killing and capturing a large number of the enemy. Colonel Walker is not to blame, however, for the mistake. It occurred from a want of knowledge of the country. As it was,, the enemy re- ceived an admonition that will make him more cautious in approaching our outposts. Colonel Walker pursued the enemy 2 miles south of Eagleville, and returned to camp without loss. I sent a forage train of 120 wagons down the Harpeth 7 miles, with an escort of three regiments of infantry, a section of artillery, and a small body of cavalry. The expedition returned to camp at 5 oclock, with all the wagons loaded, without seeing an enemy. I sent 250 cavalry on the Chapel Hill pike as far as Riggs Cross-Roads, and the officer in command reports having seen only a squad of 15 or 20 cavalry, who retreated rapidly in the direction of Chapel Hill. 1 am, general, respectfully, your obedient servant, JAMES B. STEEDMAN, Brigadier- General, Commanding Third Division. Brig. Gen. JAMES A. GARFIELD, Chief of ktaff. APRIL 18, 1863.Expedition from Murfreesborough to Lebanon, Carthage, and Liberty, Tenn. REPORTS. No. l.Maj. Gen. William S. Roseerans, Th S. Army. No. 2.Col. John T. Wilder, Seventeenth Indiana Infantry, commanding expedition. INo. 1. Report of Maj. Gen. William S. Roseerans, U. S. Army. MURPREESBOROUGH, TENN., April 8, 186310 p. m. Colonel Wilders brigade ~vent to Carthage; from thence returned, via Snow Hill and Liberty. Chased Whartons brigade out of Smith Page 201 CHAr. XXXV.] EXPEDITION TO LEBANON, TENN., ETC. 201 yule. Captured his rear guard. Destroyed 5,000 bushels of wheat and a large quantity of bacon, and sends in about 350 horses and 70 or 80 prisoners. General Palmer went within 10 miles of McMinnville, and ran the rebel cavalry, bringing in a number of prisoners. Van Dorn is at Spring Hill, and, it is said, means to attack Granger at Franklin to- morrow. We hope to make it expensive to the rebels. W. S. HOSECHANS, Major- General. Maj. Gen. II. W. HALLECK, General-in- Chief. No. 2. Report of Col. John I. Wilder, & venteenth Indiana Infantry, command ing expedition. IIDQRs. 1ST BRIG., 5TH Div., 14TH ARMY CORPS, Murfreesborough, April 9, 1863. Sin: I have to report that, in obedience to orders received, I started with my command, consisting of the Seventeenth Indiana, Seventy- second Indiana, and Ninety~eiglith Illinois Mounted Infantry, Lillys battery of four 3-inch rifled guns and four mountain howitzers, Seventy- fifth Indiana, One hundred and first Indiana, and One hundred and twenty-third Illinois Infantry; in all about 2,500 men. Taking np the line of march, 2 p. in.. April 1, moved out the Lebanou pike to Stones River, crossing on the pontoon bridge, kindly furnished me by Brigadier-General [J. St. C.] Morton, and went into camp for the night. Moved at 6 a. in., April 2, the infantry, with the battery, taking the pike for Lebanon, under command of Colonel Monroe, One hundred and twenty-third Illinois, with the mounted force and the howitzers. I took the Las Casas and Cainsville road. At the latter point I communicated with Colonel Monroe, at Bairds Mills, on the Lebanon road, directing him to arrive at Lebanon at Sp. m. Moved forward with my command, scouring the country for animals with good success; also capturing sev- eral prisoners. My party of scouts, Sergeant Birney with 7 men, found and engaged [J. M.] Phillips rebel company, capturing 1 man and 8 Enfleld rifles, killing 1 man and wounding several, and dispersing the company without loss on our part. Took three of Morgans men, with their horses and arms, at the house of Esquire Doaks. Arrived ou the Lebanon and Alexandria road at 4 p. in., 3 miles from town. Sent the Seventy-second Indiana, under Major Carr, on the old or main road from Cainsville to Lebanon. Sent the Ninety-eighth Illinois, Colonel Funkhonser, over on to the New Middleton road, retaining the Seven- teenth Indiana with myself. All instructed to arrive in town at Sp. in. The commands met on the public square, but found no enemy. The Seventeenth Indiana, going in, took two wagons laden with corn, on the road to Liberty, for the enemy. Went into camp for the night. Destroyed a small quantity of wheat and bacon collected for the enemy. Friday morning, the 3d instant, sent out parties to collect animals, which were highly successful, but marred by the loss of one man in the Ninety-eighth Illinois, by the accidental discharge of a gun, rendering necessary the amputation of the thigh, from the effects of which he died. Sent the Seventeenth Indiana, Lieutenant-Colonel Jordan, to Rome, via Jennings Fork, and in the afternoon the command, except th Page 202 202 KY., MID. AND E. TENN., N. ALA., AND SW. VA. [CHAP. XXXV. Seventy-second Indiana, moved out the Rome road to the Big Spring Farm, and encamped for the night. The Seventy-second Indiana, Major Carr, took the Hartsville road, leaving it at a point 9 miles out, cross- ing over through Taylorsville (where, haling no transportation, he de- stroyed a large quantity of wheat and bacon, collected for the enemy) to Big Spring Farm, and camped. Near Taylorsville he was attacked by a small foi~ce of the enemy, who succeeded in taking 2 of his men. He returned their fire, with what effect is not known, but drove them away. It being dark, pursuit was useless. The two men were inhu- manly butchered by their captors the next day, near Lebanon. Their names are known, and will be reported in another communication. On the morning of the 4th instant, the command moved on to Rome. I there took the Seventeenth Indiana, and went on to Carthage, where I procured supplies, and turned over to the provost-marshal 30 pris- oners, a lot of goods taken from a contraband trader direct from Mc- Minuville, and three wagon-loads of manufactured tobacco, the latter being part of a lot seized by my order on the road from Big Spring to Rome. I had received information from several sources that the owners had disposed of it to the Confederate Government,and had received pay therefor; also that they were noisy and violent secessionists. This proves to have been a mistake, so far, at least, as one of the firm is concerned, Mr. Fuqua. I had distributed about onethird of the lot to the command. Mr. Fuquas claim will doubtless be presented for ad- judication. On the morning of the 5th, the infantry and battery came up from Rome to Carthage, the Ninety-eighth Illinois and Seventy-second In- diana scouting the country for stock. The next day, the 6th instant, both commands moved to New Middleton, where rations were distrib- uted. All the animals and prisoners turned over to the infantry, which marched to Alexandria, the mounted force, with a section of Lillys battery and two howitzers, moving up Caney Fork, over a hilly and broken country, going into camp at Smiths Fork, where we destroyed a large quantity of wheat and flour collected for the enemy, and ren- dered the mill unfit for further use, cutting off this source of supplies. Tuesday, 7th instant, we started for Liberty, where we had informa- tion of the arrival of General Whartons brigade the night previous. I took the Ninety-eighth Illinois and Seventy-second Indiana, and went forward, sending orders to the Seventeenth Indiana (some distance to the rear and unavoidably detained) to come up with dispatch, and to take the road to and over Snow Hill, and to the rear of the [enemy], guided by Captain [Joseph II.] Blackburn, of Stokes cavalry, who knew the country perfectly. The enemy, having Learned of our coming, fled be- fore the movement could be executed to cut off their retreat. All escaped us but one company of 39 men, commanded by a lieutenant, who were taken. In the mean time I had communicated with Colonel Monroe, at Alexandria, directing him to move up to Liberty with his command, which he did with alacrity, skirmishing occasionally with small parties of the enemy, and driving them in so that they fell into our hands. We pursued the enemy over and beyond Snow Hill, but failed to overtake him. We again went into camp. While foraging in the evening, Major Carr, Seventy-second Indiana, surprised and cap- tured a party of 10 rebels, and brought them into camp. We also found in the town a small mail, already sent to your headquarters. The morning of the 8th, having our hands full of animals, prisoners, and negroes, it was deemed best to return to Murfreesborongh, to shoe our horses and rest the command, where we await your further orders Page 203 CHAP. XXXV.] EXPEDITION TO WOODBURY, TENN. 203 I must be permitted to make mention of the readiness and alacrity which characterized the actions of each and every man in the command, and to report that all did their duty. The fruits of the expedition are about 400 horses and mules, 194 ne- groes, and 88 prisoners of war, brought to camp. I am, sir, very respectfully, your most obedient servant, J. T. WILDER, Colonel, Commanding. Lient. Col. C. GODDARD, Assistant Adjutant- General. APRIL 2, 1863.Expedition from Readyville to Woodbury, Tenn. T?ZEPORTS. No. 1.Col. William B. Hazen, Forty-first Ohio Infantry, commanding Second Bri- gade, Second Division, Twenty-first Army Corps. No. 2.Lient. Col. Isaac C. B. Saman, Ninth Indiana Infantry. No. 3.Lient. Col. Aquila Wiley, Forty-first Ohio Infantry. No. 1. Report of Col. William B. Hazen, Fort~,~-first Ohio Infantry, commanding Second Brigade, Second Division, Twenty-first Army Corps. IIDQRS. 2D BRIGADE, ~D DivisioN, 21ST ARMY CORPS, Readyville, Tenn., April 4, 1863. CAPTAIN: I have the honor to make the following report of the expe- dition made on the ~d instant, under my command, to Woodhury: The expedition was to have consisted of Crufts brigade, which should report to me at this post by 10 p. m. of the 1st, and my own. That would enable me to put two columns in motion at 11 p. in., for the pur- pose of flanking and getting in the rear of Woodbury by daylight. The brigade of Crufts did not report till something after midnight, en- abling me to start one column, composed of the Forty-first Ohio Volun- teers and Sixth Kentucky, nnder Lieutenant-Colonel Wiley, of the former regiment, at 1 a. in., which went to the right of Woodbury, and a column composed of the Ninth Indiana Volunteers and First Kentucky, under command of Lieutenant-Colonel Sum an, of the former regiment, at 1.30 a. in., to proceed to the left of Woodbury. The One hundred and tenth Illinois, under Colonel Casey, accompanied this column as far as the point on the map accompanying, marked A, where they were to turn to the right, and proceed cautiously to the Woodbury pike, in rear of the picket post of the enemy marked B, where 60 men were on picket, and remain concealed till the main column, composed of the Secon4 Kentucky and Ninetieth Ohio, with Standarts battery and the Second Battalion of Third Ohio Cavalry, all commanded by Colonel Enyart, First Kentucky, which started at 3 a. m -, should have driven them on to this regiment, that would capture them. The delay of two hours in this brigade to report made it nearly that length of day before the dif- ferent columns arrived at the points intended. The One hundred and tenth Illinois, in consequence, did not reach the pike in time to be of service. I, however, directed the cavalry to charge this post, which they did in fine style, sabering and capturing a dozen of this picket. We pushed on through the town, and came upon the main body of the enem Page 204 204 KY., MID. AND E. TENN., N. ALA., AND SW. VA. [CHAP. XXXV. at 6 (one regiment, [Baxter] Smiths cavalry, of about 600), drawn up to receive us, about 1 mile beyond. Keeping my main column concealed, I permitted the advance to parry with him for about an hour, giving more time for the columns to get in position. I then pressed him forward, and about 4 miles from town, upon Wileys column. Upon seeing troops at this point, they at once scattered through the hills in all directions. The columns all gained their positions promptly, correctly, and unknown to the enemy, march- ing about 16 miles to do so. Had I not been delayed two hours, the re- sults of the day would probably have been much more satisfactory, as then my original plan, which was to capture entire their main picket and regulate the speed of all the columns so as to have gathered upon the camp at dawn, would have probably succeeded perfectly. As it is, I have to report3of the enemy killed (his wounded is not known),2~ prisoners, 50 horses, 4 wagons, 8 mules, with all their baggage and pro- visions. Colonel Suman captured one picket post almost entire, as did also Colonel Casey. I have to speak in the highest terms of the battalion of the Third Ohio Cavalry, commanded by Major Seidel. A brigade of such cavalry, well mounted, armed with revolvers and sabers, would be invaluable. Colonel Suman reports to me that the First Kentucky, in command of Major , straggled in going out, so as at one time to be a mile long, and detaining him nearly an hour. We returned to our camp at 12 m. See inclosed map, with routes of the columns.* I am, very respectfully, your obedient servant, W. B. HAZEN, Colonel, Uommanding Brigade. Capt. J. II. MUHLETVIAN, Assistant Adjutant- General, Second Division. No. 2. Report of Lieut. Col. Isaac C. B. Suman, Ninth Indiana Infantry. HEADQUARTERS NINTH INDIANA VOLUNTEERS, Readyville, Tenn., April 3, 1863. Siu: I have the honor to submit the following report of the part taken by my command, consisting of the Ninth Indiana Volunteers, Major Lasselle, One hundred and tenth Illinois Volunteers, Colonel Casey, and First Kentucky Volunteers, Major ,in the expedition against Woodbury on the 2d instant: The Ninth Indiana moved at 1 a. in., followed by the One hundred and tenth Illinois Volunteers. At half a mile from camp I was joined by the First Kentucky Volunteers, x~rhich I placed in the rear of the Ninth Indiana and in advance of the One hundred and tenth Illinois. I fol- lowed the Woodbury pike to the crossing of Louks Creek; then turned to the left, and up the creek between its banks 4 or 5 miles. Finding that my guide did not know where Somers lived, that being the point where I was to leave the One hundred and tenth Illinois (where the Au- burn road crossed the one we were then on), I called up a citizen about 1 mile this side of where the roads crossed, and learned from him that the enemy had a picket post of 2 men on the east side of the road. Lieu- tenant [L. S.] Nickeson having command of the advance guard, dis- patched 4 men with the guide, to go in their rear. * Omitted as unimportant Page 205 CHAP. XXXV.] EXPEDITION TO WOODBURY, TENN. 205 I here found that the First Kentucky Volunteers had not come up. I waited about three-quarters of an hour, and directed Major Lasselle to go back and order them forward; he found them within 1 mile, coming up. I then ordered the Ninth Indiana forward, when the enemys ye- ddtes challenged my advance guard. Lieutenant Nickeson ordered his men to fix bayonets and charge them. The moon had gone down, and it was quite dark. The enemys reserve finding my men coming in with their vedettes, jumped from their beds and ran, leaving 7 horses, saddles, and bridles, several guns, 3 pairs of boots with spurs on, 8 or 9 coats, and 5 pairs of pants, with their bedding. Being then 5 miles northwest of Woodbury, I ordered my command forward. When I came np with the 4 men who had been sent in the rear of the vedettes, I found that they had only killed 1 horse and had captured none of the rebels, who dashed by them when they found there were only a few of them. I then moved rapidly forward till I reached a hill between the Half-Acre road and the McMinnville turnpike. From that point I could see the enemy passing out in the valley beyond. Be- lieving pursuit useless, I ordered my c~mmand to move toward Wood- bury, then distant 4 miles. Having 10 of my men mounted on the cap- tured horses, I ordered them to scour the country and drive in toward Woodbury all the stragglers of the First Kentucky Volunteers. It ap- peared that the officers had no cbmmand over their men. They would sit down in the presence of their officers, and, when ordered forward, would reply, I am tired, and remain behind. When the column arrived at NV oodbnry, I halted it about an hour and a half when General Hazen arrived and ordered it to camp. The Ninth Indiana Volunteers lost 1 man, who straggled from his company and has not yet returned to camp. I have no means of knowing whether the First Kentucky Volunteers brought in all their men or not. Their stragglers brought in 1 prisoner, who had lost his horse (killed in the morning). They found him somewhere in the country as they strag- gled through. Respe~tfully, I. C. B. SUMAN, Lieutenant- Colonel Ninth Indiana Volunteers. Maj. li. L. KIMBERLY, Acig. Asst. Adjt. Gen., & cond Brigade, & cond Division. No. 3. Report of Lient. Gol. Aquila Wiley, Forty-first Ohio Infantry. IIDQRS. FORTY-FIRST REGIMENT, Onro VOLUNTEERS, April 4, 1863. MAJOR: In compliance with orders, I have the honor to submit the following report of the operations of the detachment I commanded in the attack on the rebel cavalry posted 2 miles east of Woodbury, on the 2d instant: The detachment consisted of the Forty-first Ohio Volunteers (12 com- manding officers and 305 enlisted men) and Sixth Kentucky Volunteers (14 commanding officers and 215 enlisted men), Lieutenant-Colonel ~hackelford commanding. It marched from camp at Readyville at 12.30 a, in. on the morning of the 2d instant, the Sixth Kentucky o Page 206 206 KY., MID. AND E. TENN., N. ALA., AND SW. VA. [CH~P XXXV. the right, with the advance guard, rear guard, and flankers necessary to prevent surprise, and proceeded, according to instructions, about 3 miles east on the Woodbury pike; then took a road leading to the right, and passing about 2~ miles south of Woodhury, and again striking the Woodbury and McMinnville pike 5 miles east of Woodhury. It was 6.30 oclock in the morning when we reached the McMinnville pike, having marched 16 miles in six hours, about half the distance the road being the bed of a stream in which the water was about a foot deep. The moment our advance gnard struck the McMinnville pike they met the advance guard of the rebels retreating forces, who ran as soon as they discovered us. One entire company of the Sixth Ken tacky was immediately deployed on each side of the road, two companies were held in column by platoon about 100 yards in rear, in the road, in reserve, and the rest of the regiment in line still farther to the rear, with skir- mishers on the flanks, and the Forty-first Ohio Volunteers about 200 yards farther to the rear, in double column, with skirmishers on the flanks and a rear guard. In this manner we advanced about 100 yards, when we came on their train of 3 wagons, which they had abandoned, only sncceeding in carrying off 1 mule. The escort, consisting of about 30 cavalry, had fled across the fields. As we advanced we could see the rebels, in squads numbering from 5 to 10, retreating on the ridges and in the ravines, from one-fourth to one- half mile from the road. After proceeding in this manner about 2 miles, as the skirmishers were ascending a hill, two squads of rebel cavalry, one about 10 and another about 20 in number, appeared in quick sac cession on the brow of the hill, and were fired on by the skirmishers, killing 1 man and wounding 2 others, and killing and wounding 4 horses. The men who were uninjured fled down a ravine on the south side of the road and were soon out of our reach. Our cavalry, who had attacked in front, now coming up, ended the affiiir. Two of the cap- tured wagons we brought with us, having first transferred to them part of the load of the third, which we had to abandon. Two men of the Forty-first Ohio Volunteers and 2 men of the Sixth Kentucky fell out of the ranks from exhaustion during the night, and have~not returned. Officers and men deserve great credit for the cheerfulness and good order with which they marched six hours at the top of their speed, with- out rest, over a rough and difficult road. The duties of the advance, rear guards, and flankers were especially fatiguing. I have the honor to be, your obedient servant, AQUILA WILEY, Lieutenant- Colonel Forty-first Ohio Volunteers. Maj. R. L. KIMBERLY, Acting Assistant Adjutant- General. APRIL 2, 1863.Skirmish on the Carter Creek Pike, Teun. Report ofMaj. Gen. Gordon Granger, U. S. Army. FRANKLIN, April 2, 1863. GENERAL: Our cavalry made a small haul to-day; two lieutenants, 8 privates prisoners, and killed 1 captain and private. G. GRANGEI~, Major- General, Commanding. Naj. Qeri. W. 5, EOSBORAN$ Page 207 CilAr. XXXV.J RECONNAISSANCE TO AUBURN, TENN., ETC. 207 APRIL 26, 1863.Reconnaissance from near Nurfreesborough to Auburn, Liberty, Snow Hill, Cherry Valley, Statesville, Cainsville, and Lebanon, and skirmishes (April 3) at Snow Hill, or Smiths Ford, and Liberty, Tenn. REPORTS. No. 1.Maj. Gcn. William S. Rosecrans, U. S. Army, commanding Department of the Cumberland. No. 2.Col. Robert H. G. Minty, Fourth Michigan Cavalry, commanding First Cav- alry Brigade. No. 3.Col. James W. Paramore, Third Ohio Cavalry, commanding Second Cavalry Brigade. No. 4.Lient. Col. Douglas A. Murray, Third Ohio Cavalry. No. 5.Col. Eli Long, Fourth Ohio Cavalry. No. 6.Maj. Gen. Joseph Wheeler, C. S. Army, of affair at Liberty, April 3, 1863. No. 1. Report of lIIaj. Gen. William S. Rosecrans, U. S. Army, commanding Department of the Gumberland. MURPREESEOROUGH, TENN., April 0, 18634.45 p. m. General Stanley has returned from his scout, bringing in some 40 or 50 prisoners and 300 serviceable horses and mules. He drove Morgans cavalry from the Peninsula, whipped them from their stronghold, Snow Hill, north of Smithville, and, but for their precipitate ~retreat and the difficult nature of the country, would have had a force in their rear and captured their artillery and animals. The enemy left quite a number of dead, and fled toward McMinnville, losing many horses, saddles, and guns. Report will be forwarded by mail. I trust our cavalry will soon begin to show its virtue in a way the rebels will not relish. W. S. ROSECRANS, Maj. Gen. H. W. HALLECK, Major-General. General-in- Chief. No. 2. Report of Gol. Robert II. G. Minty, Fourth Michigan Cavalry, command ing First Cavalry Brigade. HEADQUARTERS FIRST CAVALRY BRIGADE, rJamp near Miurfreesborough, April 8, 1863. SIR On the morning of the 2d instant I marched with my brigade, consisting of Lieutenant Newells section, 1 officer and 38 men; Seventh Pennsylvania Cavalry, Lieutenant-Colonel Sipes, 18 officers and 238 men; Fourth Michigan Cavalry, Lieutenant-Colonel Park, 11 officers and 210 men; First Middle Tennessee Cavalry, Lieutenant-Colonel Galbraith, 9 officers and 130 men; Tenth Ohio Cavalry, Colonel Smitil, 24 officer Page 208 208 KY., MID. AND E. TENK., N. ALA., AND SW. VA. [CHAP. XXXV. and 398 men; brigade staff and provost guard, 5 officers and 23 men. Total, 68 officers and 1,037 men. Taking the advance on the Liberty pike, I met the enemys pickets near Auburn, and drove them to Prosperity Church, where I found the enemy in force, and showing a bold front. I directed Colonel Paramore, with the Second Brigade, to cross Smiths Creek and meet a force that was moving up the left bank of that creek to attack our flank, and directed him to throw his left well forward, and to move down the creek until he arrived in line with my advance on the right bank. I dis- mounted one company of the Fourth Michigan, and directed them to dislodge the enemys sharpshooters from the woods in our front, which duty was performed in good style by Captain [J. C.] Hathaway. Major-General Stanley, having now come up, ordered the artillery to the front, and the enemy fell back. April 3, advanced on Liberty, the First Brigade again in advance; drove a small force from near Prosperity Church to Liberty, where the enemy was discovered in force, and holding a strong position on the opposite side of the river, with the hill back of Liberty covered with sharpshooters. The Second Brigade having been sent across the river higher up, effectually turned the enemys flank, and caused them to retreat rapidly in the direction of Snow Hill. I followed closely. When about three~ quarters of a mile from the base of the hill they took position~ and at- tempted to make a stand, opening on us with four pieces of artilkrv. I pushed forward to the attack, the Seventh Pennsylvania directly up the road, the Fourth Michigan through the fields to the right, the artil- lery, Tenth Ohio, and First Middle Tennessee following the Seventh Pennsylvania. I dismounted the Fourth Michigan and placed them in the woods, on a rough hillside, close to the rebel position, on which they opened fire with telling effect. I now directed the Seventh Penn- sylvania to char~e. The enemy fired a volley and retreated on the run. The enemy had now fallen back to their stronghold, on Snow Hill, and the general ordered up the infantry. As soon as they had taken position, he directed me to move about 1~ miles up Dry Creek. Shortly after this the enemy fell back from the hill, and a little before dark I marched back to Liberty, and went into camp for the night. April 4, marched to Alexandria, my brigade taking the rear. Biv- ouacked at Cherry Valley for the night. April 5, the Fourth Michigan and Seventh Pennsylvania crossed the country toward Statesville, and joined me near Bairds Mills the same night. With First Middle Tennessee, Tenth Ohio, and artillery, I took the advance, and, when within a few miles of Lebanon, heard that there was a small force at that place; went forward at a gallop, and captured 7 of Morgans men. Camped for the night near Bairds Mills. The Seventh Pennsylvania and F~irth Michigan brought in 10 prisoners. April 6, returned to camp, arriving at 8 p. m. My casualties were 1 enlisted man of the Seventh Pennsylvania killed and 1 wounded, and 1 enlisted man of the Fourth Michigan taken prisoner. I am, respectfully, your obedient servant, IROBT. H. G. MINTY, Colonel, Commanding Brigade, Capt. W. H. SiNCLAIR, Assistant Adjutant-Genercd of Cavalry Page 209 CHAP. XXXV.] RECONNAISSANCE TO AUBURN, TENN., ETC. 209 Ko. 3. Report of Gol. James 1W. Paramore, Third Ohio Cavalry, commanding Second Cavalry Brigade. HEADQUARTERS SECOND CAVALRY BRIGADE, Camp Stanley, Ajfril 7, 1863. Sin: I have the honor to forward, for the information of the general commanding cavalry, the following report of the part taken by the Second Cavalry Brigade in the recent scout through Auburn, Liberty, Alexandria, and Lebanon: We left camp on the morning of the 2d instant, at 6 oclock, with about 400 men, 150 of the Third Ohio and 250 of the Fourth Ohio, the balance of the brigade being on detached and picket duty or dismounted. The portion of the Third Ohio was under the immediate command of Lient. Col. D. A. Murray, and the Fourth was commanded by Colonel Long. We marched on the Liberty pike, in rear of the First Brigade, till we came to Prosperity Church, 3~ miles beyond Auburn. There a body of Confederate cavalry was encountered by the First Brigade, and, after a short skirmish, the rebel cavalry moved over to the left of the posi- tion occupied by the First Brigade, and crossed the river toward their flank. I was then ordered by ColQnel Minty to take my brigade across the river and dislodge them from that position, which I did after a short skirmish, in which we killed 1 and wounded 2 or 3 others. We drove them about lA miles, when darkness closed the pursuit, and we foraged for our horses, and, returning to the vicinity of the church, encamped for the night; furnished three companies for picket. On the morning of the 3d instant, in accordance with instructions received, I moved on a by.road about 1~ miles to the left of the Murfrees- borough and Liberty pike, and parallel with it (with a line of skirmish- ers covering the front of my column and connecting with those of the~ First Brigade), until I reached the Lebanon and MoMinuville pike. I then moved down that pike, toward Liberty, coming in the rear of the First Brigade. When we arrived at Liberty, I received orders to cross the river to the right and dislodge the enemys sharpshooters, that were occupying a high hill to the east of the town, and opposing the advance of the First Brigade. I did so, by dismounting a squadron of my com- mand and sending them up the hill as skirmishers, who soon gained its summit and dispersed the rebels. It was accomplished with difficulty, however, as it was a rough, rugged hill, and almost impassable even for footmen. I moved the column over through a kind of a gap through the mountain till I struck a cove leading down to the pike. I followed that down to the pike, where I met the First Brigade moving up, and there I received orders to again move to the right across another mountain and occupy a ravine to the right of Snow Hill, where we expected the rebels would make a stand. I accomplished that also in safety by climbing the mountain in single file (there being no road), and leading our horses. After we had gained that position and closed up in line of battle, the First Brigade moved up along the pike and formed in the ravine to our left. 1)uring this time skirmishing was going on between the rebels and our infantry and artillery moving up the pike, but with what success 1 could not learn, as they were then concealed from my view. Nbout this time I learned from Lieutenant [W. L.] Hathaway, of the First Middle Tennessee, that there was a path accessible for horsemen, by which we could gain the summit of the hill and get around to the rear of the rebels 14 R RYOL XXIII, PT Page 210 210 KY., MID. AND E. TENN., N. ALA., AND SW. VA. ICHAP. XXXV. and cut off their retreat. Thinking that nother dose of flank movements might do them good, I determined to make the trial, and started, which, I am happy to state, proved an entire success. Bonaparte crossing the A1ps~ was an insignificant affair to our passage over that mountain. But we gained the summit in safety~ and shortly met the advance of the enemy coming to drive us back, as it appears they had observed us ascending the mountain. We drove them steadily before us till we came within about 1 mile of the pike, where they had concentrated their whole force, consisting of seven regiments, numbering between 2,500 and 3,000 mel), COL manded by Colonel Duke, who had just arrived from McMinn- yule. Colonels Gano and Breckinridge were also present. Here was a place that required nerve, as well as plenty of ammuni- tion. To have retreated down that mountain would have been exceed- ingly disastrous, and almost an impossibility. After canvassing the ground, and observing that it was a narrow passage or backbone, with a deep ravine on each side, thus preventing them from getting around to our rear, I determined to attack them vigorously, making as much show of force as I could; also feeling confident that we could whip any force that could get in our front. Accordingly, after consultation with Colo- nel LonH and other officers, we opened the attack by dismounting the Fourth Ohio, and sending them on under shelter of logs, trees, & c .,to within easy carbine range, when they opened the most terrific fire upon the enemy for so small a number of men that I ever heard. I then placed the led horses in rear, and brought up the Third Ohio, and kept them mounted in rear of the dismounted men, ready for pursuit in case they should retreat. Inch by inch the foe gave ground, stubbornly striving to resist our pro~ress, but our men fought with determined spirit, and never once fal- tered. So rapid was their firing that in twenty minutes I found many of the Fourth were out of ammunition, having fired some sixty shots in that time. But the rebels had now begun to retreat more rapidly, and many of them dropping their guns and cartridge-boxes, I ~ave orders to fill the exh~ uJed boxes from these. A concentration of force soon became apparent on the enemys right, and I extended my left and strengthened it from the center and right. The firing again became fierce on both sides, but the advantage was with us, and after slowly pressing them some ~00 yards farther through dense timber and thick chaparral, an exultant shout of victory was carried along our lines, and the enemy wheeled and fled precipitately. I immediately ordered the Third to charge, and they rapidly followed the retreating column, pressing close upon its rear and pouring in rapid volleys from their carbines. The Fourth Ohio were well-nigh exhausted from the severe work they had had, dismounted, but mounted their horses as soon as they xvere brought up, and followed. The enemys cavalry had-meantime reached the Lib- erty and McMinnville I)ike, which runs over Snow Hill, and struck to the right toward Smithville. A few hundred yards from where we gained the pike, the latter inclines to the left, and here the rear guard of the pursued party attempted to hold the Third in check, firing one volley, and wonnd~ing 2 men, a sergeant and l)rivate of the Third Ohio, but they were quickly driven from their position and were then pursued for about 1 mile. Our horses were much worn or the chase would have becim continued farther. As it was, we overtook and captured some 12 of the enemy, belonging to the Second and Third Kentucky IRegi- ments. During the fight and the chase we lost none killed and had but 3 wounded, the two above referred to and 1 man of the Fourth, while the rebels lost, in killed and wounded, at least 20, and my opinion i Page 211 CHAP. XXXV.] RECONNAISSANCE TO AUBURN, TENN., ETC. 211 that the number was greater, though it was almost impossible to obtain accurate information. Several of their wounded were picked up in the road and in the thicket, and carried to neighboring houses by the Tenth~ Ohio, which had now come up and reported to me through the command- ing officer. The consternation of the enemy must have been as great as his flight was rapid, for the ronte was strewn with arms, and accouter- merits, and clothing, and I am the more convinced that a large number was wounded from the quantity of saddles we found scattered in every direction. After halting on the hill for an hour, to rest my horses, and also in ex- pectation of further orders from the general commanding, I returned toward Liberty to join the main command, and went into camp this side the intersection of the Anburn road. Picketed my front and left flank with two companies. On the 4th, I moved forward with the column, passing throngh Alex- andria, where I fonnd and seized a Government wagon, which had been captured from the Union forces some time since. From Alexandria, having the right of the column, Ii moved out the Carthage road, accord- ing to orders received, a distance of about 3 or 4 miles, when a portion of Colonel Wilders command was met, coming from Carthage, and orders then reached me to countermarch and return to Alexandria. From the latter place I moved in rear of the First Cavalry Brigade, on the Lebanon pike, and camped, about 5 p. in., 14 miles from the village of Cherry Valley, where was found an abundance of forage, belonging to a rebel family. Threw out two companies to my front at the village, and one company on the bluff to my left, as picket. On the morning of the 5th, I moved my command shortly after day- light, and prepared to scout the country between this pike and the Leb- anon and Murfreesborough pike, with the consent and approval of the general commanding, who added to my command for this purpose the Fourth Michigan and Seventh Pennsylvania Regiments. The Seventh Pennsylvania was then sent across the country to the left, to movethrough Statesville and Painesville [Cainsvillefl. They were ordered to thi-ow out a line of skirmishers to their front, to arrest all guerrillas and suspi- cious parties, and to take serviceable horses and mules wherever found. The Fourth Michigan was ordered to move to the right of the Seventh Pennsylvania, with similar instructions, their line of skirmishers to con- nect on the left with those on the right of the Seventh Pennsylvania. After moving down the pike about 1 mile farther, I sent out the Third Ohio, their skirmishers connecting with the Fourth Michigan on the left, and their right to move on a line with the left of the Fourth Ohio, whose column was to move in parallel line about 2 miles nearer Leb- anon. By this disposition of forces my line of skirmishers took in some 12 miles of country, and each column was in supporting distance of the others, in case of trouble. I myself, with staff, accompanied the Third Ohio Regiment, Lieutenant-Colonel Murray commanding. All were instructed to regulate their movements so as to be able to report in the evening at Bairds Mills, 9 miles from Lebanon. Not having the official reports of commanding officers of the two regiments of the First Brigade, 1 am unable to give the result of their expedition. The Third and Fourth Ohio Regiments, of my brigade, succeeded in capturing and seizing 110 horses, most of them known to have belonged to guerrillas or other parties in the Confederate service 33 mules, and 22 prisoners. Some of the latter were afterward released, nothing appearing against them, and the remainder were, by the brigade provost-marshal, turned over to the infantry. Encamped near Bairds Mills Page 212 212 KY., MID. AND E. TENN., N. ALA, AND SW. VA. [CHAr. XXXV. Out the 6th instant, we moved with the entire command toward Mnr- freesborough, crossing Stones River by easy ford. Arrived at camp at 2 oclock p. in. Respectfully submitting the above, I am, captain, yonr obedient servant, J. W. PARAMORE, Colonel, Commanding Second Cavalry Brigade, Per WM. E. CRANE, Lieutenant and Acting Assistant Adjutant- General. Capt. W. H. SINCLAIR, Assistant Adjutant- General and Chief of Staff. No. 4. Report of Licut. Col. Douglas A. Murray, Third Ohio ~Javalry. HEADQUARTERS THIRD OHIO CAVALRY, Camp Stanley, Tenn, April 7, 1863. SIR: Ii have the honor to report, for the information of the colonel commanding, that, in compliance with instinctions received, the regi- ment left camp on the morning of the 2d instant, with five days rations, and proceeded with the brigade on the Liberty pike as far as Pros- perity Church, the advance of the First Brigade driving in the enemys pickets. When the Third Ohio arrived at the church, they were ordered to the left, throwing out a line of skirmishers, the enemy being supposed endeavoring to come around on that flank. I formed the line with the left thrown back, advancing obliquely to the front, pushing the enemy~s pickets on their reserve, about a mile distant, drawn up in line of battle to receive us. I ordered the left of my line of skirmishers forward, thereby advancing our entire line and reserve direct npon the enemy, who, I should judge, numbered from 100 to 150. As we advanced they fell back, not attempting to offer fight.~ The regiment still advancing, I received orders to halt and keep my position, if possible, which we did, till ordered to forage and return to camp. April 3, left camp, sconring the country to the left of the pike for about 4 miles, when we turned to the left, getting upon the Alexandria and Lebanon pike leading into the Liberty pike, on which we proceeded some distance; then turned to the right, and scoured the country on the right of Liberty to within 2 or 3 miles of Snow Hill. From this point we kept still more to the right, availing ourselves of a bridle.path to the summit of a high hill, which, after descending, brought ns on a flat to the left and front of Snow Hill, where we halted and formed, the enemy firing a few shots from the top of the hill opposite. From this point we crossed the MeMinuville road, mounted another high and steep hill, which really was achieved with difficulty. Now being in rear of Snow Hill, we advanced toward the Liberty pike to the rear of the enemy, proceeding but a short distance, when our advance was attacked in force. The Fonrth Ohio Cavalry, being in advance, was immediately ordered to fight on foot and advance, which it did well. The Third Ohio was ordered to the front as a reserve, mounted. The enemy retiring, we were ordered to the front, charging and pur- suing them fully a mile, killing some (number unknown) and taking 12 prisoners. During the pursuit the enemy made two stands, but of no effect; we drove them as before. They getting behind a very thick cover, in whic Page 213 CHAr. XXXVJ RECONNAISSANCE TO AUBURN, TENN., ETC. 213 they were entirely concealed from view, and there being a large field between ourselves and them, with fences between at each end of it, and they, from ambush, keeping up a heavy fire upon us, I withdrew, hoping it would draw them out, which, however, did not succeed as I expected. I left a small rear guard, on which a few of them advanced, who, when they turned upon them, fell back to their former position. The balance of our command then coming up, we formed with them. During the pursuit 2 of our men were wounded, one severely, Sergeant ~ William] Van Wormer, Company C, and Private Saltzgaher, Company We fell back to Liberty, and encamped about 4 miles this side of it. April 4, left camp and proceeded to Alexandria), and from there about 1 mile on the Carthage road, when we counterinarched and returned to Alexandria, and took the Lebanon pike and encamped. Remaining there about three hours, again resumed the line of march, about 5 miles farther on, where we encamped. From this place I set out, iu compliance with instructions, in pursuit of some guerrillas who had fired at the advance guard and fled. The officer commanding the squadron sent Captain [J. B.] Luckey, who made every search possible for them, but without success, and returned to camp, after four hours hard riding. April 5, left camp and proceeded on the Lebanon pike but a short distance, when we were ordered to the left, to scour across the country in search of guerrillas, meat, provisions, horses, mules, & c, toward Bairds Mills. I deployed three companies as skirmishers to the right and left, connecting with the Fourth Ohio on their right and the Fourth Michi- gan on their left. We made several captures; in all 29 prisoners, 53 horses, and 17 mules. The prisoners, on our arrival at camp, I turned over to the brigade provost-marshal, several of whom have been released, whom no charges could be brought against. Encamped on the night of the 5th at Bairds Mills. April 6, returned to camp. Stones River fordable, with not over 2 feet of water at the deepest part of the ford. During the scout our horses had ample forage, and I am happy to state that the conduct of both officers and men of the regiment was highly creditable to them. Respectfully submitted. D. A. MURRAY, Lieutenant- Colonel Third Ohio Cavalry, Gomdg. Regiment. ACTING ASSISTANT ADJUTANT-GENERAL, Second Cavalry Brigade, Camp Stanley, Tenn. No. 5. Report of Col. Eli Long, Fourth Ohio Cavalry. HEADQUARTERS FOURTH OHIO VOLUNTEER CAVALRY, Camp Stanley, near Jlliurfreesborough, April 6, 1863. SIR: Pursuant to instructions from headquarters Second Cavalry Brigade, I have the honor to report that, on the morning of the 5th in- stant, I was ordered to scour the country between Chop Spring, Teun., and Bairds Mills, Teun., in a direction parallel to and at a distance of 2 or 3 miles from the Lehanon and Liberty pike, and to get all animals that would be of service to the United States Government, and to gather what information I could of the enemy. I found and brought away 5 Page 214 214 KY., MID. AND E. TENN., N. ALA., AND SW. VA. [CHAP. XXXV. horses and 16 mules, and I also found and delivered to the brigade com- mander 5 prisoners, one a purveyor of commissary stores, in the employ of the rebel Government; 1 a rebel prisoner, paroled at Perryville, but never exchanged, and the other 3 citizens, all under suspicious circum- stances. I could learn nothing of any enemy in force. Very respectfully, ELI LONG, Colonel, Commanding Fourth Ohio Volunteer Cavalry. Lieut. WILLIAM E. CRANE, Acting Assistant Adjutant- General, Second Cavalry Brigade. No.6. Report of Maj. Gen. Joseph Wheeler, C. S. Army, of affair at Liberty, April 3, 1863. MCMINNVILLE, TENN., April 3, 1863. COLONEL: The enemy attacked Colonel [R. M.] Gano, commanding [J. H.] Morgans division, at Liberty this morning, and compelled him to fall back to Snow Hill, a distance of 5 miles. Colonel Gano reports the enemy to be 8,000 strong. Our loss light. JOS. WHEELER, Major- General. Col. GEORGE WILLIAM BRENT, Assistant Adjutant- General. APRIL 5, 1863.Skirmish at Davis Mill, Tenn. Report of ]Jliaj. Gen. Gordon Granger, U. S. Army. FRANKLIN, TENN., April 5, 186310.40 a. m. GENERAL: The rebels attempted to surround a company on picket at Davis Mill at daylight this morning. All escaped and have got in except 8. Our men report the strength of rebels at about 3,000; that they moved on the north. Nothing has molested Breutwood up to this moment, which leads me to believe that it was only an expedition sent oat to capture the company at Davis Mill, and get back to their main body as quickly as possible. At Brentwood and this place all is ready. Have you any news ~? Very respectfully, G. GRANGER, Major- General. General W. S. ROSECRANS. APRIL 6, 1863.Skirmish near Green Hill, Teun. Report of Brig. Gen. Robert B. Mitchell, U. S. Army, commanding at Nashville. NASHVILLE, TENN., A 7, 1863. GENERAL: I left here yesterday with about 409 cavalry and mounted infantry, for the purpose of cleaning out the Stones River country Page 215 CHAP. XXXV.] WHEELERS RAILROAD RAID. 215 Crossed Stones River at Stewarts Ferry, traveling in the direction of Lebanon; 12 miles from there struck the Lebanon pike east of Green Hill surprised the conscripting camp near Green Hill, commanded by Captain [William P.] Bandy, of the Eighteenth Tennessee; killed 5, captured 15, including Bandy and a lieutenant belonging to Morgans command. The enemy were not sufficiently concentrated to make the expedition a complete success. I traveled over 50 miles, and returned last night at 11 oclock; had 1 man and 2 horses wounded. I also cap- tured a small rebel mail. I burned a still-house, nsed as a rendezvous for rebel recruiting, containing forty casks of different kinds of poison, in the shape of whisky, high wines, malt liquors, & c. ROBT. B. MITCHELL, Brigadier- General, Commanding Post. Maj. Gen. W. S. RO$ECRANS. A DDE NDA. MUEFREESBOROUGH, TENN., April 7, 1863. Brig. Gen. H. B. MITCHELL, Nashville: Accept my thanks for your spirited and successful expedition to the Cedars of Lebanon. Only one complaint to make. Some of your cavalry officers ought to have snap enough to do such things without troubling you to command in person. W. S. ROSECRANS, Major- General. APRIL 711, 1863.Wheelers raid on Louisville and Nashville and Nash- ville and Chattanooga Railroads inc Station, Tenn. , luding affair (April 10) at Antioch REPOI5~TS. No. 1.Brig. Gen. Elea~er A. Paine, U. S. Army, of raid on Louisville and Nashville Railroad. No. 2.Col. George P. Este, Fourteenth Ohio Infantry, of affair at Antioch Station, Tenn. No. 3.Lient. Col. Christopher J. Dickerson, Tenth Michigan Infantry, of affair at Antioch Station, Tenn. No. 4.General Braxton Bragg, C. S. Army. No. 5.Maj. Gen. Joseph Wheeler, C. S. Army, commanding cavalry. No. 6.Brig. Gen. John A. Wharton, C. S. Army. No. 1. Report of Brig. Gen. Bleazer A. Paine, U. ~. Army, of raid on Louisville and Nashville Railroad. GALLATIN, April 11, 1~63. GENERAL: I will have 1,000 men at Lebanon to-morrow morning at daylight. The attack on the train was made at 4 oclock p. m. yester- day, with three pieces of artillery, I think Parrott guns. The battery was across Cumberland River, about 700 yards from the railroad track. The first shot knocked off the dome of the locomotive, the next went through the boiler, one shot broke out a spoke in one of the driving- wheels. Two men very dangerously wounded. Thirty.five shots wer Page 216 216 KY., MID. AND E. TENN., N. ALA., AND SW. VA. [CHAP. XXXV. fired, and nearly all of them struck the train. Some of the mnn ran up the track and stopped the passenger trains. After the rebels left, the three trains ran into Nashville about midnight. E. A. PAINE, Brigadier- General. Brig. Gen. JAMES A. GARFIELD, Chief of Staff. No. 2. Report of Got. George P. Este, Fourteenth Ohio Infantry, of affair at Antioch Station, Teun. IIDQRS. 2D BRIGADE, 3D DIVISION, 14TH ARMY CoRPS, La Vergne, April 12, 1863. COLONEL: I have the honor to report the following relative to the attack upon the Nashville and Murfreesborongh passenger train, upon the 10th nltimo [instant]: The train was attacked 5~ miles from La Vergue, toward Nashville, abont 4.30 p. in., by a force of between 200 and 300 rebels, besides a sup. porting force of about 200 held in reserve, and one threatening the stockade at Mill Creek, in all about 600, nuder the command of either General Wharton or Colonel [Baxter] Smith, of the Tennessee cavalry. The resistance by the train guard was of a feeble character, owing, doubtless, to the suddenness of the attack and the fatal effects of the rebel fire. The guard soon fled, and the rebels took possession of the train, capturing most of the passengers, releasing some 43 prisoners, plundering the mail and express packages, and robbing the passengers of money, watches, clothing, boots. and hats, and setting fire to and destroying seven cars. They accomplished all this in less than twenty minutes, and retired with their prisoners and booty, reaching and cross- ing Williams Ford, 10 miles from La Vergue, some time before dark. At a point some 2 miles beyond the river they paroled the prisoners, about 79 in number, excepting Col6nel Wood, Fifteenth Indiana Volun- teers, Colonel Buell, Fifty-eighth Indiana Volunteers, Major Cupp, First Ohio Cavalry, Captain Milburn and Captain Bevill, Tenth Kentucky Volunteers, and 7 other officers, who refused to accept a parole. Taking these officers with them, the rebels moved in the direction of Bairds Mills, upon the Lebanon and Murfreesborough pike, intending to reach there before daylight. The loss of the Federals was 6 killed and 13 wounded, 3 mortally. The rebels lost 6 killed, 6 wounded, and 3 prisoners. I did not hear of the attack upon the train until nearly 6 oclock, when I immediately ordered out all the cavalry here (about 100) and ten companies of infantry. The cavalry I sent down the pike to intercept, if possible, the rebel retreat, while I placed the infantry upon a train of cars, to be immediately moved to the scene of action. Both cavalry and infantry arrived too late to do any good, the rebels having too far the start. I need not assure you of my vexation at this successful raid. Prior to its occurrence I had received, as I thought, the most satisfactory evi- dence from scouts, citizens, and contrabands that no rebels were in the vicinity in any considerable force. During the week 1 had scoured both sides of Stones River myself, with the cavalry, without being able either to see or hear of any rebel force. The successful expeditions of Colonel Wilder and General Mitchell had caused me to believe that there wer Page 217 CHAP. XXXVI] WHEELERS RAILROAD RAID. 217 no rebel cavalry to the south of Lebanon or west of Liberty. Upon the day of the attack my patrols had failed to discover any signs of the rebel forces. I have since learned that they left Lebanon the morning of the day they did attack, and only reached the place of disaster ten minutes before the train arrived. From all the evidence, I am led to believe that they neither placed any obstructions upon the track nor displaced any rails prior to the attack, but that the tender and cars were thrown off the track by the too sudden reversal of the engine for the purpose of running back. I am now sending upon each day, as far as Antioch, a full regiment of infantry in the freight train in rear of the passenger train going to Nashville. I have two lines of cavalry patrols, extending from La Yergne down 7 miles, but, in order to be better able to guard against such disasters, I ought to have more cavalry or mounted men. I would, therefore, respectfully suggest the concentration of the regiment of cav- alry now divided between Stewarts Creek and La Vergue at this point. Each detachment is too weak to do much by itself, whilst, if together, it might effect much good. I am, colonel, very respectfully, your obedient servant, 0-EG. P. ESTE, Colonel, Comnwnding. [Lient. Col. GEORGE E. FLYNT, A .A. C., and Chief of Staff.] [Indorsement.] HDQRS. 14TH ARMY CORPS, DEPT. OF THE CUMBERLAND, Murfrees borough, April 13, 1863. Respectfully forwarded. The suggestion for concentration of cavalry at La Vergue is approved and recommended. GEO. II. THOMAS, Major- General U. S. Volunteers, Commanding. No. 3. Report of Lieut. Col. Christopher J. Dickerson, Tenth Michigan Infantry, of affair at Antioch Station, Tenn. IIDQRs. TENTH REGT. MICHIGAN YOLUNTEER INFANTRY, IVashville, April 13, 1863. COLONEL: On the 10th instant, 40 privates and 4 non-commissioned and 2 commissioned officers were detailed from this regiment to guard a train on the Nashville and Chattanooga Railroad, from this city to Mur- freesborough and return. About 4 oclock in the afternoon, the train, while on its return trip, 4 miles this side of La Yergne, was suddenly attacked by guerrillas, numbering from 200 to 300, who were secreted in a dense grove of cedars, completely covering them from view. Simul- taneously with the attack the train was thrown from the track, in consequence of two of the rails being slightly displaced. The guards were stationed upon the top of some passenger cars and upon one plat- form car, and were nuder the command of Lient. Frank M. Yander- burgh. They suffered severely from the first volley fired by the rebels, a number being killed and wounded. After having discharged their pieces at the guerrillas, they jumped, as quickly as possible, from the cars upon the ground, on the opposite side from the point of attack. Protecting themselves as well as possible by the cars, they held the - train for some minutes, continually firing at the enemy. Being over Page 218 218 KY., MID. AND E. TENN., N. ALA., AND SW. VA. [CHAP. XXXV. Powered l)y greatly superior numbers, they were compelled to give up the train, and, falling back a short distance, made a stand behind a fence, where they repulsed a party of rebels who were pursuing them. flere Lieutenant Vanderburgh, who had previously received two wounds, was again shot and completely disabled. The command of the party then devolved upon Lient. H. Waiter Nichols, who, seeing there was no possibility of saving the train, retreated with his men in good order to the first stockade this side of La Yergue. Here he was re enforced by about 15 men, who were stationed at the stockade. He then moved his men back to the point where the train had been thrown from the track. The rebels had captured the mail and express matter on board, and had set on fire all the cars, together with the engine and tender. The fire, however, had done very little damage to the engine, and the same was saved. Lieutenant Nichols gathered up the wounded, who were taken to some houses near by and made as comfort- able as possible under the circumstances. A surgeon connected with the army, whose name I have been unable to learn, was on the train at the time of the attack, and rendered very efficient service in providing for the wounded. Six rebels were found dead near the point of attack, and a number are known to have been wounded. The following is a list of casualties to the party detailed from this regiment: * Considering all the circumstances attending the foregoing attack upon said train, and the large number killed and wounded, no less than 18 out of 46 officers and men, the conclusion is irresistible that both officers and men behaved with conspicuous bravery. Respectfully submitted. C. J. DICKERSON, Lieutenant. Colonel, Commanding Regiment. Col. CIJAIILES M. LuM, Comdg. First Brig., Fourth Div., Dept. of the Gumberland. No. 4. Report of General Braxton Bragg, C. S. Army. TULLAHOMA, April 13, 1863. GENERAL: General Wheeler reports from Lebanon, 11th instant: I divided my command into two parties, and made a raid upon the Lonisville and Nashville and Nashville and Mnrfreesborough Railroads, capturing a large train on each, and-many officers and men. Portions of Whartons and Morgans cavalry division composed his command. BRAXTON BRAGG. General S. COOPER. No. 5. Report of M~j. Gen. Joseph Wheeler, C. S. Army, commanding cavalry. HEADQUARTERS CAVALRY CORPS, Lebanon, April 11, 1863. COLONEL: I have the honor to state that on approaching Liberty the enemy, consisting of Wilders and Matthews infantry brigades and * Nominal list, omitted, shows 6 mei killed and 12 woanded Page 219 CHAP. XXXV.] WHEELERS RAILROAD RAID. 219 General Stanleys cavalry division, retreated with great rapidity, no doubt having exaggerated reports regarding our strength. About 700 men, under Colonel [Basil W.] Duke, were then at Smitliville, and the remainder of General [J. II.] Morgans command were at Rock Island, between McMinnville and Sparta. On the 7th, I ordered General Morgan to send up the force from Rock Island and move it forward to Liberty, unless the enemy I)reveI~ted,in which ease he was directed to turn Liberty, and thus outflank that position. I encamped at Alexandria on the evening of the 8th, with General [J. A.] Whartons division (about 1,900 strong), the remainder being with Generals [W. T.] Martin and [G. J.] Pillow, and the next morning moved on Lebanon, where I was overtaken by Colonel Duke, with 000 men, 100 having been left, by my order, to defend Snow Hill. I deter- mined to move ~vith this force and attack the Louisville and Nashville Railroad and the Nashville and Murfreesborough Railroad. I here sent two companies to Auburn and a small scout to Blacks shop, 7 miles from Murfreesborough,to guard the approaches from that point, and proceeded on to the Hermitage, detaching 500 picked men, under Lieutenant-Colo- nel [S. C.] Ferrill, with orders to cross Stones River, attack the rail- road trains, and do any other good in his power, and return to Lebanon; and, leaving Colonel Duke, with his command, to picket and defend the approaches near the Hermitage, I proceeded with the remainder of the command to a long, narrow bend to a point about 9 miles a little east of north from Nashville, where the railroad runs down to the river bank. We here placed our guns in position between two stockades, each of which was sufficiently near to be in view and within hearing. We fortunately, by the strictest silence and by creeping up to the bank, got our guns in position without being observed, and, after waiting two hours, a very large locomotive came in view, drawing eighteen cars loaded with horses and other stock. The first three shots broke open the boiler and stopped the train, and a few volleys from a dismounted regiment drove off the guard, who made but feeble resistance, wound- ing but 1 of my men. Findin~, that we could not cross the river, we brought our guns to bear npon the locomotive, and shot through it sev- eral times. We also shot the horses in the cars, and retired. The party under Lieutenant Colonel Ferrill attacked a train of cars loaded with soldiers near Antioch. Colonel Ferrill fired several volleys in crowded cars at distances varying from 10 to 50 yards. He thinks he killed not less than 100 men and wounded a large number. We took about 70 prisoners, including 20 officers, among whom are 2 colonels, 1 major, and 3 of General Rosecrans staff officers. Colonel Ferrill paroled the enlisted men, 1 captain, and 7 lieutenants. We brought off the other officers, and about $30,000 in greenbacks, together with a large mail. We also retook 40 of our soldiers, who were on their way to Camp Chase. Colonel Ferrill destroyed the train, and broke up the road and telegraph. Our loss 1 man wounded. With great respect, colonel, your obedient servant, JOS. WHEELER, Major- General. Col. GEORGE WILLIAJmI BRENT, Assistant Adjutant- G~neral, InUahorna. P. 5.I think that Colonel Ferrills estimate of the dead may be somewhat exaggerated. Perfectly reliable officers state that they saw over 30 dead Yankees and state that they saw only a portion of those that were killed Page 220 220 KY., MID. AND IX TENN., N. ALA., AND SW. VA. [CHAP. XXXV. No. 6. Report of Brig. Gen. John A. Wharton, C. S. Army. HEADQUARTERS WIIARTONS CAVALRY DIVTSJON, LeL~anon, April 12, 1863. GENERAL: After being relieved on outpost duty at Unionville, my command passed through Shelbyville on the 4th, 5th, and 6th of April, arriving at McMinnville, oi~ rather at a point 8 or 9 miles in advance of that place, on the Woodbury pike, the second day after, without any- thing to disturb the quiet of the march but a few groundfoss alarms, soou ascertained to be such. On the 8th, the command was at and ne~ir Blews, 3 miles from Me- chanicsville, on the Liberty road, where, hearing of 10,000 strong of the Federals at Liberty, it was determined to cross the Liberty and Mur- freesborough road 5 or 6 miles this side of Liberty, while sending a force to develop the Federal strength there. However, before reaching the turning-off point, it was ascertained that the Yankees had evacuated Liberty, and the line passed through that place, and camped near Alex- andria that night. On the 9th, after au easy march, the command encamped near Leb- anon, with plenty of forage, to rest the horses aud recover from the fatigue of the hard march of the day before. The morning of the 10th found the whole command in saddle, and on the march at 3 oclock. Detachments from the various regiments of my brigade, to the num- ber of about 500 men, reported to Lieutenant-Colonel Ferrill, of the Texas iRangers, for special service, and with this force he started in the advance. The rest of the brigade followed, and on reaching the Her- mitage, 18 miles from Lebanon, turned off to the right 6 miles, to the river, where, in a large bend, the Nashville and Louisville Railroad runs along the edge of the bluff, on the opposite side, in plain sight, and only 250 or 300 yards distant. A force being left at the turning-off point to guard the wagons, which had come along for safety, and the approaches to the river in our rear, the artillery was posted on the bank, after a reconnaissance by General Wheeler and myself, just back of the edge, at the bluff on this side, and out of sight of sentinels on the other, supported by several regiments dismounted, while the remainder was held in reserve half a mile off. On the approach of the train, the guns were run up to the brink of the bank, and at the second shot from them the steam-pipe was cut, the steam escaped, and the train was slowly stopped. After much firing on our side, a little from the other, much fuss among the horses, with which the train was mainly freighted, and the scampering off of the few hands left on the train, although the cars were not thrown from the track, as desired, the command was drawn off. It was 2 oclock at night before the rear guard encamped, within 5 miles of Lebanon, through which they passed on the morning of the 11th, sitting down again in the neighborhood to picket to advantage and recruit the horses after their march of over 50 miles in one day. This morning (the 12th) dispatches are received conveying the result of Coloimel Ferrills raid on the Murfreesborongh and Nashville ltailroad. Coming to the road near Antioch Station, Mill Creek, he spread the track and placed his men in ambush. The train approached at full speed, the tops of the cars crowded with soldiers. Fire was opened upon them, and soon the last one struck the ground Page 221 CHAr. XXXV.] ENGAGEMENT AT FRANKLIN, TENN. 221 the train ran off, a heavy fire was directed against the confused mass struggling for life and extrication, and in a few moments, with a charge, the train was ours. Eleven officers were brongh~ prisoners here, and some others, with 150 men, were paroled, while 75 or 80 were killed or wounded. Fifty or sixty of our own men, captured near Liberty, were retaken, and much express and mail matter brought away. I send you the mail bag, the only one brought away, thinking you may find some- thing of interest in it; also some late papers. After getting through with the mail, you will please forward it to the editor of the Chattanooga Rebel, with my compliments. I will commu- nicate with you from time to time as anything of interest occurs. With great respect, general, your obedient servant, JNO. A. WHARTON, Brigadier. General. Lieut. Gen. LEoKIDAS POLK, Commanding Polks Corps. P. S.A large amount of greenbacks were captured. APRIL 10, 1863.Engagement at Franklin, Tenn. REPORTS. No. 1.Maj. Gen. William S. Rosecrans, U. S. Army, commanding Department of the Cumberland. No. ~2.Maj. Gen. Gordon Granger, U. S. Army, commanding Army of Kentucky. No. 3.Capt. Charles G. Matchett, Fortieth Ohio Infantry. No. 4.Maj. Gen. David S. Stanley, U. S. Army, commanding cavalry. No. 5.Capt. James B. McIntyre, Fonrth U. S. Cavalry. No. 6.Licut. Col. Josiah B. Park, Fourth Michigan Cavalry, First Cavalry Brigade. No. 7.Lient. Col. William B. Sipes, Swenth Pennsylvania Cavalry. No. 8.Lient. Reuben C. Conch, First Middle Tennessee Cavalry. No. 9.Lient. Co]. Oliver P. Robie, Fourth Ohio Cavalry, commanding Sccond Cav- alry Brigade. No. 10.Col. Daniel M. Ray, Second Tennessee Cavalry, commanding Third Cavalry Brigade. No. 11.Lient. Col. Robert Klein, Third Indiana Cavalry. No. 12.Retnrn of Casualties in the Confeder& e forces. No. 1. Report of Ma.j. Gen. William k. Roseerans, U. ~3. Army, commanding Department of the ~umberland. MURPREESBOROUGH, TE~N., April 11, 18635 p. m. The following dispatch was received about midnight: FRANKLIN, April 10, 1863. General ROSEOnANS: Van Dora made his promised attack to-day at 1 oclock directly in front and on the town. An infantry regiment on guard and in town, with the cavalry pickets, held him at bay until their ammunition was exhausted. The dense smoke and atmosphere favored their operations, enabling them to approach very near without our being able to observe them. Our siege guns and light batteries opened upon them with murder Page 222 222 KY., MID. AND E. TENN., N. ALA., AND SW. VA. [CHAP. XXXV. ous effect, literally strewing the ground with men and horses. I had halted Stanley 4 miles out, on the Mnrfreesborongh road. He at once crossed his forces over at Hughes Mill, vigorously attacking Forrests division, moving down on the Lewis- burg pike, capturing six pieces of artillery and some 200 prisoners, but, owing to the unfavorable nature of the countr~V, was unable to hold them, being attacked by greatly superior numbers, outflanked, and nearly surrounded. At the moment I was about to support him with all of my available cavalry and infantry, I received a dis- patch from General Morgan saying that his pickets were being driven in on the Wilson pike. This led me to suppose that either Breutwood or our rear would be attacked in force; hence I was unable to carry out my project of cutting off and destroying most of Van Dora force. Our loss in killed, wounded, and prisoners is less than 100, while the enemys cannot be less than three times that number. They were repulsed on all sides, and driven until darkness prevented the pursuit. Captain McIntyre, of the Fourth Regulars, took the battery and p~~isoners, bringing off twenty-odd of the latter. G. GRANGER, Major- General. Reports place Yan Porns force from 10,000 to 18,000. The attack was repulsed so easily that I am waiting the return of General Stanley, who has gone with his force to the front, to know whether it was more than a reconnaissance. W. S. ROSECRANS, Major- General. Maj. Gen. H. W HALLECK, General-in- Chief. No. 2. Reports of M~J. Gem. Gordon Granger, U. S. Army, commanding Army of Kentucky. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF KENTUCKY, Franklin, Tenn., A 15, 1863. COLONEL: I have the honor to submit to the general commanding the Army of the Cumberland the following report of the attack that was made upon my forces at this point on the 10th instant by the forces of the enemy under the command of General Van Porn: For several days previous to the day of attack I had received infor- mation from Murfreesborough and Triune that such would be made by General Van Porn on the 9th instant, with a force variously estimated at from 15,000 to 18,000. In accordance with this information, I made such disposal of the troops at my command as I thought proper to resist this threatened attack. My effective force consisted of 5,194 infantry, 2,728 cavalry, eighteen pieces of artillery, and two siege guns, sub- divided as follows: Command. Men. Guns. Brigadier-General Bairds division (infantry) , 2,884 12 Brigadier-General Gilberts division (infantry) 2,310 4 Brigadier-General Smiths Fourth Cavalry Brigade 1, 128 Major-General Stanleys command (cavalry), about 1,600 2 24-pounder siege guns at the fort 2 Total 7, 922 20 With this force, composed principally of raw men who had never heard a hostile gun fired, I had to resist the attack of General Va Page 223 CHAP. XXXV.] ENGAGEMENT AT FRANKLIN, TENN. 223 Dorns coinmaild, which, I have since carefully ascertained, consisted of about 9,000 cavalry and mounted infantry and two re~iments of in- fantry proper. These were seasoned troops, th~ most of them having been in service since the war commenced, and having passed through many engagements. A glance at the plat of the town of Franklin and its environs, which is hereto attached,* together with a partial descrip- tion herein of the approaches to the town, especially from the south, the topographical features of the surrounding country, and the condi- tion of uur works of defense on the 10th instant, will be necessary to correctly describe the nature of the attack made by, and repulse of, Van Dorn. The only artificial defense that we had was the fort situated on the top of the bluff which rises on the north side of the Harpeth River, east of and commencing at the point of intersection of the railroad with the river. Of this the main work was only partially finished; the ouP works had not been commenced. Its armament consisted of two 24. pounder siege guns and two 3-inch rifled guns from the Eighteenth Ohio Battery, which were added thereto after the action had commenced. This fort is abont 40 feet above the general surface of the plateau on which Franklin is situated, although there are several rising pieces of ground thereon about 1 mile from the fort on a line extending from the Lewisburg pike to the river below the town, which are very near ou a level with it. The fort commands most of the approaches to Franklin north of the ilarpeth, and all of the approaches from the south save that part of the plateau which is covered by a few blocks of houses, which stand in the southWest part of the town. My camp was on the north side of the river, lying between the Nash- ville pike and the fort, and along the Liberty road, and extending back from the river about two-thirds of a mile. The ilarpeth River at an ordinary stage of water, such as there was on the 10th instant, is from 30 to 40 feet wide and from 2 to 3 feet deep, with square-built banks from 0 to 10 feet high. It can easily be crossed both above and below Franklin at several old fords. The facilities for reaching Franklin from the north are very good; from the south they are excellent. It is approached from the south by the Lewisburg, Columbia, and Carter Creek pikes, all of which are in good condition. The Lewisburg pike strikes the river a short distance above the town and then follows its course for about 3 miles, when it leaves it and runs in a southeasterly direction. It can easily be reached from the Murfreesborough road by a country road that crosses the river at Hughes Mill. This pike is qnit~ level and crooked. The Columbia pike is an excellent road, hard, level, and straight for 3 miles from town, where it passes through two high hills or knobs in a narrow gap. The Carter Creek pike is hard and level until it reaches a line of hills at a point 2 miles south of the town. There are also other roads leading into Franklin from the south and from and into the pikes above de- scribed, but it is not necessary herein to refer to them. The plateau on the south side of the ilarpeth, and upon which Franklin is situated, is surrounded almost entirely by a line of hills at a distance of from 2 to 3 miles from the town. The ground is rolling, and it is entirely cleared of timber, save at the points designated on the plat. Directly west of the fort, on the north side of. the river, is the ground on which my cavalry was encamped. It was heavily timbered, and from the west base of *Seep. 225 Page 224 224 KY., MID. AND E. TENN., N. ALA., AND SW. VA. [CHAP. XXXV. the bluff, on which the fort is situated, it gradually rises to about the same height as the fort, at the distance of one-quarter of a mile there- from. Judging from the configuration of the country on both sides of the ilarpeth, and from the fact that nearly the whole of Van Dorns force was mounted, and from the strength of that force, I did not think the attack would be made directly in our front, but that it would be made by falling upon our rear and flanks, after the enemy would cross the river above, or above and below Franklin. I therefore made the follow- ing-mentioned disposition of my forces to meet the attack: I ordered General Stanley, who, having reported to me on the evening of the 9th instant, had been halted 4 miles from town on the Murfreesborough road, to remain with his cavalry force on the north side of the Harpeth, to watch the ford at flughes~ Mill, while my own cavalry, under com- mand of Brig. Gen. G. C. Smith, was held iu reserve to re-enforce General Stanley, if necessary. General Baird was ordered to post his division in such position as to watch the fords below Franklin, and General Gilberts division was held in position to meet any attack that might be made on our front or to re-enforce either of our flanks. Friday, the 10th instant, was a dark, smoky, and windy day. The dust was blown from Franklin and from the dry roads directly into our faces, which, together with the condition of the atmosphere, so obstructed our vision that we could scarcely distinguish a fence from a line of horse- men, even with our field glasses, at the distance of over 1 mile. For the enemy it was a most propitious day for an attack. In the advance from their camp at and near Spring Hill, Van IDorns forces marched along the Columbia pike until they approached the point where it passes through the two knobs, before mentioned as being about 3 miles from the town. The bulk of them then crossed over to the Lewisburg pike and approached the town on it, while the remaining part approached on the Columbia pike. Their approach was very rapid, and the first intimation that I had of it was the firing that I heard as they drove in my pickets. This was very soon after 12 m. When the pickets reached the outskirts of Franklin, on the south side of the town, they met the Fortieth Regiment Ohio Volunteer Infantry, which was there posted, it having been on the south side of the river on that day per- forming guard duties. By this force the farther progress of the enemys force that followed up the pickets was then for some time stayed. This regiment here held a force, immensely superior in numbers, at bay until its ammunition was exhausted. It is shown that it fought well and held its ground with determination by the number of the enemys dead and wounded found at and near this scene of conflict. It was finally forced to fall back through the town to the river, and it was followed by a part of the Twenty-eighth Mississippi Cavalry, under command of Major [Edward P.] Jones. But few of this regiment who came into town returned. It was now about 2 p. m. At this time a large force could be seen forming in the rear of and near the cotton-gin, which is shown on the plat, stretching and moving from the Columbia pike to the woods that lie between the railroad and the Lewisburg pike, while large forces could be seen back of Bostwicks house, in the woods between the Columbia pike and the railroad, about 14 miles from the fort, and in the woods between the railroad and the Lewisburg pike, about 1 mile from the fort. I now ordered the two 24- pounder siege guns and the two 3-inch rifled guns of the Eighteenth Ohio Battery in the fort to be opened upon that part of the enemys force which was forming in the open field. After firing shell at the Page 225 ENGAGEMENT AT FRANKLIN, TENN. / N 15 R RVOL XXIII, PT I CRAP. XXXV.~ 225 z Page 226 226 kx~., MID. AND E. TENN., N. ALA., AND SW. YA. [CHAP. XXXV. for a short time, they hastily retreated to the woods on their right. Two rifled guns were now posted by the enemy in the edge of the woods between the Columbia pike and the railroad, and from them they directed a fire at the fort and at my headquarters, about 700 yards east of the fort. A fexv shells passed over the fort and a few fell near the river, in the vicinity of my headquarters, without doing any damage. Just before the enemy opened a fire from this battery, I received a telegram from General Morgan, commanding at Brentwood, stating that his pickets had been driven in on the Wilson pike. This dispatch caused me to change my opinion as to the main feature of the attack. It now appeared to me that Van Dorn, while he held force enough in our front to successfully resist any attack that I might make upon his front in the open field, really designed it as a cover to an attack that he would make with irresistible force upon the small garrison at Breutwood. Therefore, upon receiving this dispatch I sent all of my own cavalry, under command of Brig. Gen. G. C. Smith, in great haste to the relief of that post. Afterward I learned that General Morgans pickets had been driven in only by 3 or 4 negroes walking along the road. Very soon after this cavalry force had left, and too late for it to return to take part in the action, I (liscovered from his maneuvers, and from the statements of prisoners we had captured, that General Van Dorns real intention was to attack us in front; that his whole force was di- rectly opposed to us, and that he did not intend to attack Brentwood. I then adopted the following plan of offensive operations: As I had now lost the use of my own cavalry, with which I intended to support General Stanley, I ordered two regiments of infantry and two guns from General Gilberts division to move rapidly forward to Hughes Ford, to supply its place, and immediately sent word to General Staiiiey of this fact. It was my intention, as soon as these re-enforce- ments reached General Stanley, and as soon as the enemys force, which was on the Lewisburg pike, then moving toward Franklin, had passed the point of its intersection with the road from Hughes Mill, to order him, with his re-enforcements, to cross the river, proceed to the pike, and attack this force in the rear.. At the same time General Baird, who was to cross the river on the pontoon bridge with his divisiou, would attack the same force in front, while 1 would hold General Gilberts division as a reserve on the north side of the river, with its head resting on the pontoon bridge, ready to cross at a moments notice. This plan failed, although I had every reason then to believe that it would not. I am now positive in stating that it would have resulted in a great success if it had been properly carried out. General Van Dorns forces were in such a position that I might have crushed them, taking from 2,000 to 3000 prisoners. In disposing my forces in accordance with the above-mentioned plan, it was first necessary to bring General Bairds division from the fords which it was guarding below Franklin, and cross it over the pontoon bridge to the south side of the river. Owing to the distance from these fords to the bridge, it would take at least one hour and a half to make this movement. However, before General Baird had commenced to move, and almost before General 5tanley~s re-enforcements had started on the march of 3 miles to join him, I was very much surprised in receiving a message from him, stating that lie had crossed the river at Hughes Ford, nioved to the Lewisburg pike, and had attacl~ed the enemy in dank. I sent word to his re-enforcements to rush foiward as rapidly as pos- sible, and to endeavor to reach the ford at least before he might b Page 227 CWAP. XXXV.] ENGAGEMENT AT FRANKLIN, TENN. 227 driven back. At the same time I hurried General Bairds division across the pontoon bridge; but it was too late. As soon as General Stanley commenced this attack, General Van Dorn, discovering his precarious situation, turned from our front and attacked him with such overwhelming nua~bers that he was driven back across the river before the re-enforcements sent to him could reach it. As soon as this was accomplished, the enemy rapidly retreated toward Spring Hill. It was now almost evening. General Bairds division, being composed of infantry and artillery, was unable to overtake the mounted enemy in his rapid retreat. He followed him until dark, and then returned to camp. Thus ended the action of that day. The enemy having fallen back to his strong position near Spring Hill before morning, I did not deem it safe to follow him np with the force at my command. It is impossible to give the exact list of our casualties, as General Stailley has not as yet made an official report to me of the losses in his command. Of my own forces there were 4 killed, 2 severely wounded, 2 mortally wounded, and 9 taken prisoners. Of the enemy, 19 were killed and left on the ground, and 35 were wounded at one point alone the place of conflict with the Fortieth Ohio Volunteer Infantry. Taking the unofficial report of General Stanley as to the number of the enemy killed and wounded in his front; the statements of prisoners as to the total loss of the enemy; the statements of deserters, and the statements of intelligent persons living along the line of 1the enemys retreat, as to the number of dead and wounded carried off in ambulances and wagons toward Spring Hill, I can safely set down the enemy~s loss, in killed, wounded, and prisoners, at 300. Of this number, 48 were prisoners. Since this attack I have been informed that it was made with the be- lief that my infantry had been removed to Nashville, and that the only force that had been left here was a small body of cavalry, which was guarding a large collection of commissary and qnartermaster~s stores that had not at that time been removed. It was the intention of the enemy to capture the cavalry and seize these stores. Since Van Dorns repulse, he facetiously calls his attack an armed reconnaissance in force. I am, very respectfully, your obedient servant, G. GRANGER, Lieut. (Jol. C. GODDARD, Major- General, Gommanding. A. A. G., 8taff of ]IfaJ. Gen. Roseerans, ]Jiliurfreesborough, Tenn. FRANKLIN, April 19, 1803. GENERAL: General [S. L.] Freemans battery was taken and destroyed by chopping it to pieces. Himself, 1 lieutenant, and several men were killed; 2 lieutenants and 29 men of the battery taken prisoners. In other words, the battery was defunct. No artillery firing in this quarter to-day. Scouts in from Hillsborongh road found nothing. I have ordered Morgan to intrench himself at Brentwood. G. GRANGEII, Major- General. General W. S. ROSFICRANS Page 228 228 KY., MID. AND E. TENN., N. ALA., AND SW. VA. [CHAr. XXXV. No. 3. Report of Capt. Charles C. Matchett, Fortieth Ohio Infantry. CAMP OF FORTWTII OHIO VOLUNTEER INFANTRY, Near Franklin, Tenn., April 11, 1863. COLONEL: I have the honor of submitting to you the following report of the engagement had by the Fortieth Ohio Volunteer Infantry, under my command, with the combined rebel forces of Van Dorn, ~Cosby, and Brigadier.General Jackson, on yesterday (April 10,1863), while on picket duty: The colonel and major of the regiment being sick, and I being the ranking captaiu of the regiment reported for duty, the command of the regiment for that day was assigned to me. At 12.20 p. m. the enemy commenced the engagement by attacking the outpost guards on and adjacent to the Columbia pike, with a large advance guard. Companies E and K (First Licuts. James Allen and David Hoop, respectively) were in charge of that section of our line, with First Lieut. David Hoop commanding. The guards of that sec~ tion were rallied on their reserve, where they gallantly repulsed two attacks of the enemys advance before re.enforceinents reached them. Before the attack began, I ordered Company H, Captain [J. C.] Meagher, and First Lient. John W. Smith, Company I, forward to strengthen Lieu- tenant Hoops reserve. Seeing the strength of the enemys advance guard greatly outnumbered Lieutenant Hoops reserve, I immediately sent Company B, Capt. Charles J. IRut, forward also to take position on the left of Lieutenant Hoops reserve. A moments glance at the enemys force convinced me that the limited force under my command could maintain their lines but a short time against the numbers of the enemy in front. I therefore ordered my last company of reserves (Company A, under command of Second Lieutenant [S.] Hart, of Company B) to take position in the wood at the left of the railroad, in order to strengthen Company C, Second Lient. J. C. Peck, who had been posted on our ex- treme left section of the guard on the Lewisburg pike. At the same time I sent for the provost guards of Franklin (Company 0-, Second Lient. J. A. Fisher commanding,), ordering them to re-enforce my left, by way of the Lewisburg pike, with all their force, excepting one re- lief of the prison guards. This order was not obeyed. My messenger in a few minutes informed me that Lieutenant Fisher and the I)rovOst- ~narshal, Captain [William L.] Avery, of General 0-rangers staff; refused to send me the company. Company 0-, therefore, was not sent out of the town. With this disposition of my force, and with only seven com- panies of infantry, less than 300 men, we maintained our lines of more than one-fourth of a mile in extent for more than two hours against vastly superior numbers. Twice did they attempt to nut us with their cavalry, and as often were they repulsed with loss. They next advanced several mounted companies as skirmishers, de- ployed in sections and platoons, and at the same time began to form a consolidated line on rear of his skirmishers for a charge. We held our lines thus long, momentarily expecting re-enforcements. None, how- ever, arrived, and I was informed that none were on their way. From the length of time that we were engaged, it was reasonable to suppose that we were not to be re-enforced, but rather that it was the wish of the commanding general for us to fall back. No order or iptimation to that effect, however, reached me Page 229 CHAP. XXXV.] ENGAGI~MENT AT FRANKLIN, TENN. 229 Our lines, up to this time, had been maintained in the skirts of a wood. To the rear of us, for a distance of more than half a mile, lay an open cotton field, without an obstacle or a shelter on it. A formi- dable line of cavalry, composed of three regiments, of from 1,500 to 2,500 men (as we learned from prisoners afterward taken by us), were just beyond the range of our guns, to the front of us. The fences and houses of the town were our nearest shelter in rear. A force suffi- ciently strong to flank us were menacing our right and left. The woods must soon be yielded up to overwhelming numbers. From this critical position the men were relieved by the most noble daring and bravery that ever graced any arms. I gave the order to fall back, on double-quick. His mounted skirmishers followed us. When they had advanced into the open field, we halted, came to an about, and gave them a fire which soon sent them reeling on their main line. Taking advantage of their retreat, we fell back. His skirmishers soon recovered, and again charged us as before, and we again faced about and repulsed them. We again fell back as they fell back. This maneuver was repeated, with equal success on our side, until we gained about two-thirds of the distance from our outpost line to the village, when the main line of the enemys cavalry charged us. When within range of our arms, we kept up a continuous fire on him, which caused him to move toward us at a slow and cautious pace. At this time I caused the men to retire from front to rear by company. This order was executed in admirable style, the front company retiring on double- quick to the rear of the other companies, where they caine to an about, and deliberately delivered their fire, until they again became the front company, when they again retired as before. In this manner, though exposed to a heavy fire from the enemy, we kept them on a pace less than double-quick until we gained the town, where we took advantage of the houses, yard fences, hedges, & c., which we converted into rifle- pits, from whence we poured into the enemys ranks a murderous fire. The right and left regiments of his line were repulsed, and they re- treated to his niain reserve, his center only passing into the town. For this they were severely punished by our continuous fire, and soon retreated in the utmost confusion. We saluted their retreating and con- fused ranks as we had welcomed their approaching line of battle, with a murderous fire. After they had fallen back, several pieces of his artillery, which he had placed in battery near our picket post on the Columbia road, opened on us with grape and shell. Our batteries and siege guns at the fortifications then opened on them, and drove theni from the field. At 5 p. m. our regiment was again formed near the pontoon bridge, from whence, in a few minutes, we moved forward and again took our former position at our guard lines. During the action every officer and man did his duty nobly. My com- mands were promptly obeyed, and executed under a heavy fire of the enemy with a promptness that would (lo credit to the ordinary drill on the parade ground. Captains Meagher and Ent, First Lieutenants Roop, Allen, and Smith, and Second Lieutenants Peck and Hart, each commanding a company, and the only companies engaged, deserve particular mention. Our loss was 3 killed, 4 wounded, and 10 missing. Their names ac- company this report. The enemys loss was 2 captains and 15 men killed, 1 major and 13 men wounded, and 13 prisoners; besides over 100 horses, riderless, escaped within our lines and were taken. In reporting their loss, I only mention those who fell into our (Fortiet Page 230 230 KY., MID. AND E. TENN., N. ALA., AND SW. VA. [CHAP. XXXV. Ohio) handsexcept the horses he took with him, the greater part of his killed and wounded. His total loss may be safely estimated at 150 in killed and wounded. I have the honor to be, colonel, your obedient servant, CHAS. G. MATCJIETT, G~ptain, Gommanding Fortieth Ohio Volunteer Infantry. Col. S. D. ATKINS, Comdg. Second Brigade, Third Division, Army ~f Kentucky. No. 4. Report of ]llaj. Gen. David S. Stanley, LA S. Army, commanding cavalry. IIDQRS. CHIEF OF CAY., DEPT. OF THE CUMBERLAND, ]lliurfree.sborough, April 16, 1863. GENERAL: Upon the 9th day of this month I marched a cavalry force of 1,600 men, composed of the Fourth U. S. Cavalry, Captain McIntyre; part of the First Brigadethe Fourth Michigan, the Seventh Penusyl. vania, and two companies of the First Middle Tennessee, Colonel Sipes the Second East Tennessee, Colonel Ray; three companies of the Third Indiana, Colonel Klein, and two pieces of artillery, Lieutenant Newell, to scout the country to Triune, and thence to Franklin, to give General Granger such assistance as he might require in his operations against Van Dorn. The Second Brigade took the direct Franklin road; the remainder of the command the Bole Jack road. Our camp was made this night near Petersburg. Our pickets pushed down to the Harpeth. At 10 oclock on the succeeding morning I reached Franklin, camping my troops on the Murfreesborough road, at the brick church, 4 miles east of Franklin. At about 2.80 oclock a continuous fire to the front of Franklin, on the Columbia pike, indicated that the enemy was making an attack in force. It was some time after the firing commenced before General Granger could believe the enemy would have the temerity to attack, but this was soon decided by the enemy boldly charging into the town. The regiment on duty in the place (the Fortieth Ohio) fought well, and killed nearly all the enemy that came into the village. As soon as I saw that the attack was in force, I immediately ordered a counter-attack by the way of the ford at Hughes Mill and the Lewisburg pike. The road, after crossing the ford, divides, one fork, the right one, reaching the pike about 1 mile from the ford; the other, the left, 1~ miles from the same point. The Second Brigade was commanded by Lieutenant-Colonel Robie, and supported by the Second East Tennessee, Colonel Ray, and a detachment of the Third Indiana, Lieutenant-Colonel Klein, supporting. On the lefthand road the Fourth Regular Cavalry moved. This last column soon became engaged, and, charging promptly, dispersed a great part of Forrests division, taking his battery of six pieces and some 300 i)risoners. Just at this moment a contraband came to me, and told me he had just escaped from the enemy on the Culumbia road, and that Van Dorn was moving between myself and Franklin with 4,OOQ men. This could not be allowed, and I sent the Fourth Kentucky, which had come to my sup- port, and Colonel Sipes, with two pieces of artillery, to watch Ewings Ford, where Van Dorn purposed crossing. The enemy were already attempting the ford, but were soon driven Page 231 CHAP. XXXY.1 ENGAGEMENT AT FRANKLIN, TENN. 231 At this juocture 1 sent the Fourth Michigan to support Captain McIntyre; but after holding the captured battery for one hour, he was obli ed to cut the spokes and cripple the battery as he best could, and retire to the ford, being surrounded and attacked on all sides. He brought off a good part of his prisoners. In the mean time the force on the right-hand road was severely engaged, and drove the enemy back in three charges they made to gain the ford. Night was now upon us, and General Granger sending me word he could support me, I again advanced, but fearing our columns firing into each other in the dark- ness, remained on the ground until morning. The enemys loss in killed, wounded, and missing, on the flank the cav- alry attacked upon, was not less than 150; among these some of their best officers. Not keeping their battery was much to be regretted, but the limbers and caissons were run off and the cavalry had no means of moving the guns. On the 11th, we cared for our wounded. On the 12th, returned to this place. Where all the officers and men behaved well, I find it difficult to name the deserving. To do so would be simply to recount the names of all the officers of my staff; of commanders of brigades and regiments, and they in turn the subordinates of their commands. From the circum- stances, the Fourth U. S. Cavalry did the most gallant service. The report of Captain McIntyre is called to the attention of the general com- manding. Two gallant officers, old soldiers, were dangerously wounded in this regiment, leading their companiesLieutenants ilealy and Sim- son, the former, it is feared, mortally. Inclosed please find list of casualties and sketch of gronnd.* D. S. STANLEY, Major- General. [Inelosure.] Return of Casualties in the engagement near Franklin, Tenn., April 10, 1863. Wounded. -~ Total. .1 a Command. a a a a a a a ~ a 0 0 Second Cavalry Brigade 2 6 8 Third cavalry Brigade 1 - -- -. 6 7 4th U.S. Cavalry 3 2 5 17 2 25 Total 6 2 17 17 2 40 D. S. STANLEY, Major-aeneraL No. 5. Report of Capt. James B. McIntyre, Fourth U. S. Cavalry. HEADQUARTERS FOURTH CAVALRY, Camp near Murfreesborough, April 14, 1863. SIR: I have the honor to rel)ort that on the 10th of April, 1863, while in camp 4 miles from Franklin, Teun., at 1.30 p. m. I received orders from * Sketch not found Page 232 232 KY., MID. AND E. TENN., N. ALA., AND SW. VA. ~CllAP. XXXV. Major-General Stanley, commanding cavalry, to proceed with my regi- ment to the ford on Harpeth River, at the mills 3 miles from Franklin, effect a crossing, strike the Lewisburg pike, and march thence to Frank- lin on that road. I immediately started with my regiment, and crossed at the ford, throwing forward Company C, nuder Lieutenant rB. L.] Fletcher, as an advange guard; Company A, nnder Lieutenant [N. J.] McCafferty, as left flankers, and Company E, nnder Lieutenant [E.] Fitzgerald, as right flankers. In this order I advanced until, reaching the woods, 100 yards from the turnpike, I discovered a rebel battery in position on the tnr-n- pike, with a strong cavalry support. I then ordered Lieutenant [W. II.] Ingerton, with Companies K and B, to charge the battery, which he did in gallant style, capturing the whole battery of six pieces and between 200 and 300 prisoners, killing a captain and second lieutenant, taking a captain and first lieutenant prisoners, and following up the charge some distance, putting the enemy to flight. During this charge, Lieut. T. W. Simson was severely wounded. I then ordered Lieutenant [J.] Hedges, with Company G, to follow up the charge, and attack the enemy on the hill and on the right of the turnpike. This he did most success- fully, forcing them to retreat in utter confusion. Meanwhile I ordered Lientenant Fletcher, with Company C, to engage the enemy on onr right and rear, where they appeared in force. 1 ordered the rear squadron, under Captain [T. II.] McCormick, to halt at the battery as a reserve, with Company M, under Lieutenant [E. 0-.] Roys, in the rear. Scarcely had I done this when he reported to me that the enemy were advancing to attack my rear; that he had dismounted Company M, and they were fighting on foot against a superior force, holding them in check, but need- ing support immediately. I then ordered Companies E, D, and I, under Lieutenant [T.J ilealy, to their support, forming them on the right of Company M. It being then reported to me that the enemy were cross- ing the fields on foot toward the woods, to support the force attacking my rear, leaving their hor~es at a brick church, about 1,000 yards from my rear, and if one squadron should charge down the road, they could be cut off from the woods and their horses, I ordered Lieutenant ilealy, with Companies D and I, to charge down the road, which he did, but, being armed only with pistol and saber, with woods on his right and a fence on his left, and the lieutenant being severely wounded, they were forced to fall back. During this time I received orders from Major- General Stanley directing me to fall back immediately and recross the river, as the enemy in strong force were moving round my right flank, with the intention of intercepting my retreat to the ford. At the same time I discovered the enemy advancing, in superior numbers, on my right, front, and rear, threatening to surround me. I immediately or- dered Company B to support Company M, who were still holding in check the force attacking my rear, but their ammunition failing, I then ordered Company M to fall back on the regiment. I then had the rally sounded, and ordered a retreat to the ford, having only 150 yards of a plowed field open to retreat, between a cross-fire from my rear, right, and left. I reached the ford and recrossed the river with but little loss, bringing with me a captain, 1 second lieutenant, and 34 pris- oners, but was obliged, by overwhelming numbers, to abandon the bat- tery and between 400 and 500 prisoners, and after having inflicted upon the enemy a loss of at least 100 in killed and wounded. Before retreat- ing, Company A spiked four of the guns, cut the spokes and tongues, and entirely destroyed the harness, thus dismantling the battery. The officers and enlisted men deserve more praise than I am able t Page 233 CHAP. XXXV.] ENGAGEMENT AT FRANKLIN, TENN. 233 give them, especially Captain McCormick, who wheeled my rear corn- panics to attack the overwhelming numbers that attacked me in my rear and right, and to Lieutenant Ingerton for the gallant manner in which he led his squadrons over the battery, and driving the enemy before him for upward of a mile. Lieutenant Bendlebrock accompanied Lieutenant Ingertons squadron, and was conspicuous for his gallantry always in front doing his duty, as a gallant officer should. Lieutenant Hedges, who immediately followed up the charge, breaking off to the right of the pike and charging a regiment stationed on a commanding position and utterly routing them in every direction, continuing the charge to the left, and cutting his way back to the regiment through a line of dismounted cavalry in the most perfect order in a column of fours, and every man in his proper place. Lieutenants Boys, Fletcher, MeCafferty, and Simson behaved gloriously; always cool and collected. In fact, I have not sufficient language to thank the officers and men of my brave and gallant regiment. Inclosed please find a list of the casualties of the regiment,* and a sketcht showing my position and that of the enemy. I am, captain, very respectfully, your obedient servant, J. B. McINTYRE, Captain, Commanding Regiment. Capt. W. H. SINCLAIR. Assistant Adjutant- General. No. 6. Report of Lient. Col. Josiah B. Park, Fourth Michigan Cavalry, First Cavalry Brigade. HEADQUARTERS FOURTH MICHIGAN CAVALRY, Camp Minty, April 15, 1863. 8In: I have the honor to hand you the following report of the expe- dition to Franklin: Thursday, April 9, I left camp, with 175 men and officers, at 6 a. in.; formed on the Wilkinson pike, and reported to Lieutenant Colonel Sipes, commanding the First Cavalry Brigade. Marched direct to Petersburg, by way of Triune; went into camp for the night. April 10, was called out at 1 a. in.; moved forward at daylight. At 9 a. m. fed and groomed the horses near the stone church, 4 miles above Franklin. About noon heard brisk firing at Franklin. About 2 p. m. moved forward to a ford on the river about 3 miles above Franklin; was immediately ordered to the ford about 1 mile below, where we formed line in rear of Newells battery. A few minutes after, General Stanley ordered me back to the ford we had just left, to support the Fourth U. S. Cavalry,which was reported to have captured a battery of four guns and several prisoners. I galloped back toward the ford. When within about 600 yards of the river, I met the Fourth U. S. Cavalry returning. Captain Mcintyre infor?ned me that the battery had been retaken by the enemy, and that they were then advancing. I immediately formed a line on the right of the road, dismounted the regiment to fight on foot, and advanced toward the river, and formed line behind a fence cover- ing the ford. I immediately reported my position to General Stanley, and received his order to remain where I was. About an hour after, * Nominal list, omitted, shows 2 killed, 7 wounded, and 14 missing. t Not found Page 234 234 KY., MID. AND P. TENN., N. ALA., AND SW. VA. rdHAP. XXXV. by order of the general, 1 advanced to the bank of the river, mounted one battalion (Captain Tottens), crossed the creek, and advanced to the front until I met General Bairds brigade. . I then reported to General Stanley, and was ordered by him to recross the river, get forage, and go into camp. April 11, at 8 a. in., i was ordered by Captain Sinclair, assistant ad- jutant-general of General Stanleys staff; to support a section of Millers (Chicago) battery. I also reported to Lieutenant-Colonel Sipes, theii on my right supporting Newells battery. Remained at this place nutil next morning about 9 oclock. We then took np the line of march to Mnrfreesborough, under command of Colonel Minty, Fourth Michigan, in advance. Nothing of importance occurred during the day; encamped at Stewarts Creek, on Bole Jack road. April 14, marched at 6 a. in.; arrived at Murfreesborough at 10 oclock; countermarched, and went to Florence; stopped, and returned to this camp at 5 p. m. All of which is respectfully submitted. I have the honor to be, your obedient servant, J. B. PARK, Lieutenant. Colonel, Commanding Fourth Michigan Cavalry. Lieut. JOSEPH G. VALE, Acting Assistant Adjutant- General, First Cavalry Brigade. No. 7. Report of Licut. 6~ol. William B. iS~ipes, Seventh Pennsylvania 61avalry. IIDQRS. SEVENTH IREGT. PENNSYLVANIA VOL. CAVALIiY, ~Jamp Stanicy, April 17, 1863. Sin: I have the honor to report that at daylight, on the morning of the 9th instant, I marched from this camp, temporarily in command of the First Cavalry Brigade, consisting of the Fourth Michigan, com- manded by Lieutenant-Colonel Paine [J. B. Park], the Seventh Penn- sylvania and two compauies of the First Tennessee Cavalry Regiments, and a section of the First Battery of Ohio Volunteer Artillery, com- manded by Lieutenant Newell. The brigade marched by way of the Wilkinson turnpike and the Bole Jack road to Triune, where it joined the cavalry forces under the im- mediate command of Major-General Stanley. That evening the coni mand bivouacked at Petersburg, and on the following morning moved toward Franklin. When within about 4 miles of the latter point, at about noon, a portion of our forces became engaged with the rebels, and the First Brigade was pushed forward to hold an important ford (Mc- Ewings) on the ilarpeth River. We remained in this position for some time, when the Fourth Michigan Regiment was ordered to the support of our forces actively engaged with the enemy near the ford, at Heights [llughes~] Mill, about 1 mile distant. The remaining portion of the brigade continued in position until near sundown, when I was ordered by General Stanley to cross the river and move cautiously up the Lewisbarg turnpike, to ascertain the position and movements of the enemy. After advancing about 1 mile in the direction indicated, we came in range of the enemys fire, and proceeded to reconnoiter their position. The force in front of us was posted in a dense wood, on the summit of a rocky hill, to the east of the turnpike Page 235 CHAP. XXXV.] ENGAGEMENT AT FRANKLIN, TENN. 235 To approach them, it was necessary to pass over an open ascent a dis- tance of several hundred yards, which was intersected with strong stone fences, and similar obstructions lined both sides of the road. The ground was not accessible for cavalry, and my command was too small to permit any portion of it to be dismounted. After observing the enemy for some time, they delivering a scattering fire at us, which did no execution, I deemed it prudent to fall back to the artillery, which had been left with a support of only 50 men. On the road we met with a heavy detachment of infantry and artillery from Franklin, commanded by Brigadier General Baird. J explained to Ihe general, as near as I could, the position of the enemy, and returned in advance of his column to my former position, within range of the rebel rifles. Here I remained until about 9 oclock at night, General Bairds forces not advancing, when I received an order to rejoiu the artillery at McEwings, and bivouac for the night, which order was obeyed. The following morning, the Seventh Pennsylvania and First Tcniies- see Cavalry and Newells artillery moved, by order of General Stanley, to Heights [llughesl] Mill, where we again bivouacked, in company with the Second Brigade. During Saturday and Sunday morning, our patrols reported a picket of the rebels in sight on the Lewisburg road; but positive orders hav- ing been given by Major-General Granger, commanding at Franklin, not to bring on an engagement, they were not attacked. On Sunday, scouts reported that the enemy had fallen back, leaving no trace of their presence save one spiked cannon and a broken caisson, which they had thrown into a creek. On Sunday evening Colonel Minty arrived and assumed command of the brigade. Ny regiment remained with the brigade until its arrival at Murfrees- borough, on Tuesday, having been absent six days. During the scout we cal)tured 5 horses and 4 mules, which have been properly accounted for by the regimental quartermaster. I have to report the loss of 1 man, a member of Company C, who was accidentally shot, and left in hos- pital at Franklin. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, WM. B. SIPES, Lieutenant- Colonel, Corndg. ASeventh Pennsylvania Vol. Cwv. Lient. JOSEPH G. YALE, Acting Assistant Adjutant- General, First Garctlry Brigade. No. 8. Report of Lient. Reuben C. Couch, First Middle Tennessee clavairy. FIRST REGIMENT MiDDLE TENNESSEE CAVALRY, Camp near Murfreesborougli, April 15, 1863. SiR: I have the honor to report the part taken by this command in the late scout to Franklin, Tenn. On the morning of the 9th instant, acc6rding to orders from Lieuten- ant-Colonel Galbraith, commanding this regiment, I left camp in coin- mand of 57 men, and marched about 20 miles to Petersburg, where we encamped during the night. On the 10th, marched near the vicinity of Franklin, and was detailed to support a battery of two guns belongin Page 236 236 KY., MID. AND E. TENN., N. ALA., AND SW. VA. [CHAP. XXXV. to the brigade, which was posted near a ford about 1 mile from Franklin, where we remained during the night. On the 11th, we were ordered to encamp with the brigade at a ford about a mile Thrther up the river from the one where the battery was l)osted, where we remained during the 11th and 12th. On the 13th, having received orders, we took up tbe line of march for this place. When we reached Murfreesborough we were ordered back on the railroad to Florence, remaining about two hours, when we again started for camp, where we arrived on the iiight of the 14th, at about 6 oclock. My force did not become engaged while out. One man being taken sick was left at Franklin. No other casualties occurred. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, IR. C. COUCH, Second Lieutenant, Gommanding Detachment. Lieut. JOSEPH G. VALE, Acting Assi8tant Adjutant-General. No.9. Report of Lieut. Cot. Oliver P. Robie, Fourth Ohio Gavairy, commanding Second Cavalry Brigade. CAMP STANLEY, April 16, 1863. SIR: In obedience to your order, received this morning, I have the honor to submit the following report of the part taken by the Second Brigade in the late engagement at Franklin, Teun.: I was ordered on Friday, April 10, to assume command of this bri- gade, consisting of 190 officers and men of the Third Ohio, 257 of the Fourth Ohio, and also a detachment of the Third Indiana Cavalry. Weleft camp at 6 oclock a in., and marched to within 4 miles of Frank- lin, at which point I received orders from the general commanding to move with my command across the Harpeth Fork at a ford 3 miles to the left of the Murfreesborough pike, and proceed to Franklin, on the Lewis. burg pike. Having crossed the ford, and while moving in the direction of the Lewisburg pike, my advanced guard captured a surgeon and quar- termaster belonging to the Confederate Army; also 2 negroes, who re- ported a force of the enemy between us and Franklin, 2,000 strong. A company which had been sent down the Lewisburg Pike also reported the enemy in force in that direction. At this moment heavy firing was heard on the Lewisburg pike. Knowing thatthe Fourth Regulars had been sent in that direction, and were probably engaged with the enemy, I imnmedi- ately prepared my command to move to their support. While advancing in line, and when within a few hundred yards of the enemy, who were plainly visible in strong force, I received orders from the commanding general to fall back and recross the stream. My command returned in good [order] to within a short distance of the ford. The enemy observ- ing our niovements, advanced rapidly and opened fire upon our right. I ordered my men to return the fire, which was promnptly done, with good effect, repulsing them twice. At this time I ordered the left to hold the enemy in check while I could retire the right of my line. While endeavoring to execute this movement, the enemy charged in strong force, driving in my skirmishers and causing my line to fall back in confusion. I succeeded in rallyin Page 237 CHAr. XXXV.] ENGAGEMENT AT FRANKLIN, TENN. 237 my men and formed another line. The enemy having dismounted, ad- vanced rapidly throngh the open field, and opened fire npon us, at about 300 yards distance. We retnrned their fire, and drove them back in con- fusion. Ii then withdrew my command across the stream, and took posi- tion commanding the ford, which I was ordered to hold. My loss was 2 killed and 0 wounded. The enemy undoubtedly [lost] more heavily, but they having possession of the ground, were enabled to remove their killed and wounded. That night we remained in camp at this point. The next morning I snrrendered command of this brigade to Lieutenant-Colonel Mnrray, who is my superior officer, and took command of my regiment, the Fourth Ohio Yolnnteer Cavalry. Yery respectfully, your obedient servant, 0. P. ROBIE, Lieutenant- Golonel Fourth Ohio Volunteer Gavatry. Capt. W. II. SINCLAIR, Assistant Adjutant- General. No. 10. Report of Gol. Daniel ]JE. Ray, Second Tennessee Cavalry, commanding Third Gavalry Brigade. CAMP NEAR MURFREESBOROUGII, TENN., April 16, 1863. SIR: I have the honor to submit the following report of the late scout to Franklin, Tenn.: Left camp with my command, consisting of the Second East Tennessee Cavalry and a detachment of the Fonrth Indiana Cavalry, on the~morn- ing of Thursday, April 9, 1863; halted at night about 4 miles south of Triune. Resumed the march on the following morning at 3.30 oclock; in arched until 8 a. in.; halted within 4 miles of Franklin. Resumed march at 2 p. m. of same day; marched a distance of 4 or 5 miles, crossing Big ilarpeth River below an old mill. Was attacked by the enemy in force near ford of Big ilarpeth; engagement lasted about one hour, mostly at long range; the enemy fell back; I occupied his ground. My loss was 1 killed and 6 wounded, all belonging to the Second East Tennessee Cavalry. Late in the evening I recrossed the river with my command, at the ford where I crosse~l at 2 oclock. Remained over night; distance about 1 mile from the scene of the engagement. On the 11th instant, ad. vanced as far as where the Fourth U. S. Cavalry were engaged on the 10th. Itetum-ned froni that place to where we halted on the morning of The 10th instant. IResuined march on the 13th for Murfreesborough at 12 a. in.; arrived at camp at 9 p. in., burning on our way ten dwellings and outhouses belonging to persons who had sons in the Confederate Army, as per order of Major-General Stanley. I am, very respectfully, your obedient servant, P. M. RAY, 61olonel, Cornn~andi~~g Third Cavalry Brigade. Capt. W. II. SINCLAIR, Assistant Adjutant- ~eneral Page 238 238 KY., MID. AND E. TENN., N. ALA., AND SW. VA. [CHAr. XXXV. No. 11. Report of Lieut. (Jot. Robert Klein, Third Indiana Cavalry. IIDQRS. THIRD BATTALION, THIRD INDIANA CAVALRY, Camp Drake, Tenn., April 16, 1863. SIR: I have the honor to report the following as the part taken by detachment of the Third Indiana Cav~Jry, 170 strong, under my com- mand, during the late scout to Franklin, Teun.: Nothing worthy of note occnrred nntiL on the 10th instant, when, halted 4 miles from Franklin, I was l)laced uuder command of Lieuten- ant-Colonel Robie, corn manding Second Brigade, with which brigade we acted during the entire engagement aIl(l remain(ler of the scout. Early in the afternoon we were ordered to proceed to the ilarpeth River, at [Hughes] Mill, where our brigade crossed at lower ford, opposite the bluff. We moved across the open field and woods to the Lewisburg pike, driving the enemys sentinels toward Franklin, in which direction we observed them in considerable mounted force. The brigade was formed across the pike, facing toward Franklin, my battalion being in the center, where we were to await their approach. The Fourth Regulars becoming engaged jn our rear, toward Lewisbnrg, we were ordered to about face, and move down the Lewisburg end of the pike, which we did in fine order, and had laid do~vn the last fence between us and the reserve of the force engaging the Fourth Regulars, and would soon have en l)tured them and the horses of their dismounted men, the guard be. ing inconsiderable, but orders were given to fall back, as they were ad- vancing from Franklin in our rear. We fell back with the promptness characteristic of cavalry movements, and formed in the field and woods near the bluff, at the crossing, our line being at an acute angle with the l)ike and bluff; our left nearest the pike and our right nearest the bluff with my battalion again in the center of the Second Brigade. The enemy made two attacks oii this position, and were both times repulsed; but coining through the woods in force and attacking our left vigorously, doubled it on the center, obliging us to fall back. We again formed parallel to the bluff, which l)osition we held until the enemy retired. We were in advance of the reconnoitering force which went out in the evening, but nothing worthy of note occurm~ed. Our loss in the whole scout was very small, being 2 mortally wounded and 2 slightly so. Also 12 horses killed, disabled and abandoned. I take pleasure in testifying to the general good conduct of my officers and men, their actions meeting my full approbation. lam, captain, very respectfully, your obedient servant, H. KLEIN, Lieutenant- Colonel, (Joinmanding Third Indiana Gavatry. Capt. W. II. SINCLAIR, Assistant Adjutant- General Page 239 SKIRMISH NEAR CHAPEL HILL, TENN. No. 12. Return of Casualties in the Confederate forces. [Compiled from nominal list of casualties.] Killed. Wounded. MLsing. - a Command. ~i en a a . a . a . n ~ en a a a 0 ~ 0 ~ 0 ~ First Brigade (Armstrongs) Staff 3d Arkansas 4th Mississippi 1st [6th] Tennessee. Sanders battalion Escort ([James II.] Polks company) Total Second Brigade (Starnes): 3d [4th] Tennessee - - 9th [19th] Tennessee ....... Escort (detachment 3d [4th] Tennessee) Total Freemans battcry Forrests escort TQtal Grand total 1 1 4 1 3 1 1 1 1 2 4 1 5 1 I 1 1 10 1 1 14 1 6 2 2 1 5. 4 3 1 ~ 2 21 .I 1 1 1 28 31 4 4 1 5 1 28 35 1 2 30 2 31 9 8 4 70 APRIL 12, 1863.Skirmish at Stewartsborough, Tenn. Report qf Col. William TV. Lowe, If~/th Iowa Cavalry. FORT DONELSON, April 13, 1863. Yesterday one company of the Fifth Iowa Cavalry, Captain [D. A.] Waters, of Major Garrids [0?] command (now out Seizing horses). had a liighly successful engagement with rebels, completely routing them, killing and wounding several, capturing 17 prisoners and 25 horses, besides arms, & c. Among the prisoners are Major Blanton, Captain Lealer, of Coxs i-egiment, and the adjutant and surgeon of Owens bat- talion. This Blanton is the same who was captured during the winter by one of my scouting I)arties, and made his escape somewhere north of Cairo. W. W. LOWE,. Colonel, Commanding. Lient. Col. C. GODDARD, Assistant Adjutant- General, Department of the Cumberland. APRIL 13, 1863.Sl~irmish near Chapel Hill, Tenn. Report of Brig. Gen. James B. & eedman, U. S. Army. IIDQRS. THIRD 1)IVIsIoN, FOURTEENTH ARMY CORPS, Triune, Tenn., April 15, 1863. COLONEL: The enemy have been remarkably reserved for the past four (lays. Two companies of my cavalry, under the command of CHAP. XXXV.] 23 Page 240 240 RY., MID. AND E. TENN., N. ALA., AND SW. VA. [CHAP. XXXV. Lieutenant-Colonel [J. P.] Browniow, went on the 13th within 2 miles of Chapel Hill, and attacked a forage train of the enemy, killing 1 of the rebels and dispersing the guard; but before they succeeded in destroying the train, the approach of a body of the enemys cavalry forced them to retire. The whole force of the enemy at Chapel Hill is one regiment of cav- alry ([Josiah] Pattersons). There is a brigade of cavalry at Rover, under the command of Colonel [A. A.] Russell. Van Dorn is quiet at Spring Hill, with his force. In the destruction of property, under the order of Major.General Stanley to his command to burn the houses of all citizens who have sons or near relatives in the Confederate service, a large amount of for- age was burned. On one plantation (John E. Tull6s), a large barn, full of hay and oats, sufficient to have loaded 5 wagons, was burned. I sent a train yesterday for the forage, and the officer in charge, Major Boynton, Thirty-fifth Ohio Volunteers, reports to me that the barn and contents were destroyed. The major also reports to me that on several other farms the forage had been burned by General Stanleys cavalry. I do not suppose that General Stanley knew anything about the destruc- tion of the forage, or that he would have permitted it had he known that it was being done. Everything is going on smoothly. My command is in excellent con- dition and spirits. Respectfully, your obedient servant, JAMES B. STEEDMAN, Brigadier- General, Commanding Third Division. Lieut. Col. GEORGE E. FLYNT, Chief of Staff, Fourteenth Army Corps. APRIL 15, 1863.Skirmish at Piketon, Ky. Report qf Cot. George W~ Gallup, Fourteenth Kentucky infantry. HEADQUARTERS DISTRICT OF EASTERN KENTUCKY, Louisa, Ky., April 19, 1863. GENERAL: I have the honor to transmit to you a report. Ellaving definite information of a rebel camp, under command of a Major [James M.] French, having been established at Piketon, in Pike County, Ken- tucky, 80 miles distant from this post headquarters, at the request of Col. John Uils, Thirty-ninth Kentucky Regiment, I sent him, with a detachment of 200 men of the Thirty-ninth Kentucky Regiment, selected, good, mounted riflemen, with orders to rout them. He left on the morn- ing of April 13, instant, and came upon the enemy on the morning of the 15th instant. Colonel Dils attacked them at daylight on the 15th instant, and brisk skirmishing ensued for about an hour, when the enemy was compelled to surrender the town. We captured Major French, ~t surgeon, 1 mus- tering officer, 5 captains, 9 lieutenants, 70 men, 30 horses and saddles, about 40 guns, and all their stores, aud completely destroyed their camp. I also sent out a detachment of the Fourteenth Regiment Kentucky Vol- unteer Infantry (1 corporal and 13 men) to watch the movements of Gen- eral Marshall toward Breathitt County. They followed the enemy, under General Marshall, closely to Breathitt County, 75 miles, and came upo Page 241 CHAP. XXXV.] EXPEDITIONS TO COURTLAND, ALA, ETC. 241 a party of Captain [J. II.] Bradshaws company, and captured 12 sneii, and, on their way back, one piece of artillery, the only one Marshall brought into Kentucky with him, and returned to this post without the loss of a man killed or wonuded. Colonel Dils, Lieutenant-Colonel Mims, and Major Ferguson are deserving of great credit for the able manner in which they acquitted themselves and managed the expedition. The Thirty-ninth Kentucky Regiment Mounted Infantry is a new regi- ment, but behaved nobly and nnfiinchingly nuder fire. The prisoners, nuder charge of Capt. Dwight A. Leffingwell, Fourteenth Regimefit Ken- tucky Infantry, are duly forwarded to general headquarters, and [Cap- tain Leffingwellj will report for instructions. I have the honor, general, to be, your obedient servant, GEORGE W. GALLUP. Maj. Gen. AMBROSE E. BuRNSIDE. APRIL 15MAY 8, 1863.Expeditions (April 15May 2) to Courtland, Ala., and (May 28) Tupelo, Miss. SUMMARY 023 TIlE PRINCIPAL EVENTS. April 17, 1863.Actions and skirmishes at Lundys Lane, Cherokee Station, Great Bear Creek, and Barton Station, Ala. 19, 1863.Skirmish at Dickson Station, Ala. 22, 1863.Action at Reek Cut, near Tuscumbia, Ala. 23, 1863.Skirmishes at Dickson Station, Tuscumbia, Flore,nco, and Leighton, Ala. 27, 1863.Skirmish at Town Creek, Ala. 28, 1863.Action at Town Creek, Ala. May 5, 1863.Action at Kings Creek, near Tupelo, Miss.* REPORTS. No. 1.Maj. Gen. Stephen A. Hurlbut, U. S. Army, commanding Sixteenth Army Corps. No. 2.Maj. Gen. Richard J. Oglesby, U. S. Army, commanding Left Wing, Sixteenth Army Corps. No. 3.Brig. Gen. Grenville M. Dodge, U. S. Army, commanding expedition. No. 4.Col. Florence M. Cornyn, Tenth Mimouri Cavalry, commanding brigade. No. 5.Col. Moses M. Bane, Fiftieth Illinois Infantry, commanding Third Brigade. No. 6.Itinerary of the Left Wing, Sixteenth Army Corps, April 15May 1. No. 1. Reports of Maj. Gen. Stephen A. Iliuribut, U. S. Army, commanding Sir teenth Army Corps. HEADQUARTERS SIXTEENTH ARMY CORPS, April 14, 1863. GENERAL: I inciose you the copies of dispatches received from Cor- Inth and La Grange. It would seem as if the enemy had got notice of IJ1~osecrans intended movement on the Tennessee. * For Confederate reports, see Series I, Vol. XXIV, Part 1, pp. 689694, 16 ~ UVOL x~ITI, vT Page 242 242 KY., MID. AND E. TENN., N. ALA., AND SW. VA. [(hxA1~. XXXV. I have ordered Dodge to take 5,000 men, with two batteries, from District of Corinth, open communications at Hamburg with Itosecrans, and, as soon as their mutual whereabouts is known, to more rapidly on Tuscumbia, cutting by cavalry, if possible, the railroad from Decatur to Tuscumbia. This will take l)lace on Wednesday or Thursday, if Rose. crans succeeds in getting up the river. The Marine Brigade has not reported yet. If Ellet has gone up the Tennessee, as directed, he will be in time to co-operate. If not, lie should be cashiered for running by me without reporting. His assistance would be invaluable at this time, provided his command is of any use at all, which I do not know. If iRosecrans moves with convoy, he can break through. If not, I doubt his getting down the Cumberland and up the Tennessee. Under cover of this movement, I shall sweep down with cavalry, and expect no difficulty in getting to Meridian. 1 am st$ill horribly crippled for want of horses, by the gross neglect of quartermasters at Saint Louis. I have only received 200, with which I have remounted the Seventh Kansas, and sent them to Dodge. No further iiews of moment. Your obedient servant, S. A. HURLB UT, Major- General. [Inclosure No. 1.] CORINTH, April 4, 1863. Major-General HURLBUT: Scout in from south, four days fr.om Meridian; no movements of trool)s since last report between Jackson and Yicksburg; says troops niove daily up tQward Yazoo and back again. They have a heavy force to work at Yazoo City and at Clarksburg, or Clarksville; also are mak. ing great efforts iu collection of provisions and forage in Mississippi; says Yicksburg army are wholly supplied now from this State. Troops along the road and iii my front same as last report. Some heavy guns have gone from Vicksburg up to Yazoo City; only three, he thinks. G. M. DODGE, Brigadier- General. [Inclosure No. 2.] CORINTH, April 13, 1863. Major-General HUImBUT: My assistant adjutant-general has just returned from Tuscumbia. Two brigades and one battery have been added to their command since last Sunday, a week ago. Under a general reconnaissance it appears that they expected a move by way of Tennessee River by Major-General Rosecrans. They have now there 6,000 men and eleven pieces of artil. lery. This is certain. 1 sent full report to General Oglesby, with request for him to send to you. At Tuscunibia they had a telegram of the 11th from Charleston, saying our forces were advancing upon them by land. G. M. DODGE, Brigadier. General. [Tuclosure No. 3.] JACKSON, April 13, 1863. Major-General HURLBUT: The following dispatch has just been received from Brigadier-General Dodge, Corinth: Two scouts are in from the south, one from Meridian and the other from Vicksburg. Pembertons command is now stretched from Grand Gulf to Greenwood, with on& Page 243 CHAP. XXXV.I EXPEDITIONS TO COURTLAND, ALA., ETC. 243 brigade at Big Black. Two steamboats also lie at Big Black Bridge, at Jackson, one right above Jackson. For 15 miles toward Grenada two Indian regiments; at Grenada lot of militia. Line of Yazoo is heavily guarded, and very thoroughly intrenched. They are living from hand to month, all their provisions being locked up in RedRiver. Along line of railroad great efforts are being made to collect grain and bacon. They run one or two cars per day from each station. It was said that 5,000 men were going from Vicksburg to Johnston; 3,000 went from Meridian; five trains of empty cars toward Yicksburg the day the scouts left there. They have great fears of a movement by land. Should any~troops leave Yicksburg, I shall know it at Columbus. Four oi five regiments, a command from Florida, under Colonel Finney, came to Okolona three clays ago, about 400 [4,000?] strong; also a regiment to Colton. All the militia of the State are being concentrated along our front; the rest of the forces are about as I wrote. I send the Yicksburg man to Grant, he having been sent on his order. The guns at Yicksburg are mostly on Yazoo and Mississippi Rivers. Front very firm. In rear they do not fear an attack from that direction, but do fear the cutting off their supplies by way of Grenada or Corinth. There is no doubt but that all theirsupplies come now from Mississippi, and they are getting scarce. li. J. OGLESBY, Major- General. [Inclosure No. 4.1 JACKSON, April 14, 1863. General IIURLBUT: I have just received dispatch from Dodge stating that the enemy have been driven from Glendale toward Bear Creek, our cavalry close upon them in pursuit. The eliemy accomplished nothing but wounding a few men. General Dodge also states that the enemy showed themselves this morning and last night in considerable force on Tennessee River. R. J. OGLESBY, Major- General. MEMPHIS, llfay 5, 1863. I inclose herewith a short statement from Major-General Oglesby of the results of Dodges expedition.* You will perceive that it has been thoroughly a success, so far as this command is concerned. There is more doubt of the success of the expedition from Rosecrans. The chief cause of failure in this, if it fail, will have been in the delay of a week, which intervened from the time they were to report at Hamburg to the time when they did report. By referring to my previous communica- tions, you will perceive that the several movements indicated in them to be carried on by this command have been performed with a reason- able degree of accuracy, and with a very brilliant success in the main attempt to pierce the enemys country. The movement on Tascumbia, on the one side, drew attention and gathered their cavalry in that direction; while the movement on Cold- water and Panola drew Chalmers and his band in the other. Thus our gallant soldier, Grierson, proceeded with his command unchallenged, and has splendidly performed the duty he was sent upon. I very earn- estly support his chum for promotion, earned by long and meritorious service, and now crowned by this last achievement. I trust he will be able to join the main army below Grand Gulf; if not, he will go to Banks. In either event, he will be a gain to the part of the army he may join. If it be practicable, I strongly request that he and his com- mand may be sent to me. Your obedient servant, S. A. HUIILBUT, Major- General. Lient. Col. JOHN A. BAWLINS, Assi8tant Adjutant-General. See Oglesbys report of May 3, p. 245 Page 244 244 KY., MID. AND E. TENN., N. ALA., AND SW. VA. [CHAP. XXXV No. 2. Reports of JJIaj. Gen. Richard J. Oglesby, U. S. Army, commanding Left Wing, Sixteenth Army Corps. JACKSON, April 19, 1863. GET~rnRAL: I have received the following dispatch from Colonel Fuller: The following dispatch has just come in by messenger: Je FIELD, Bear Creek, April 19-4 p. in. I crossed Bear Creek Friday morning; commenced fighting, and drove the rebels 13 miles, to Crane Creek. This mornin I advanced again, but did not pursne, as I received no news from Rosecrans, nothing from Marine~rigad~ and because infantry force in my front is larger than mine, and the cav- alry force 4,000 strong. I have lost about 100 men, and one piece of artillery disabled. The enemy s loss is very large; their dead and wounded are along the road from Bear Creek to Crane. The gun- boats, I think, will be able to go to Tuscumbia in three or four days. In mean time I desire Fullers brigade, with one battery and 800 extra rounds of artillery ammunition, to join me. If you can throw a brigade into Corinth, to relieve him, and let him start ~lionday, I will go forward by river and land again. Seven hundred cavalry cannot go into Georgia, or even far into Alabama, as their force is strong, and getting stronger. If the Marine Brigade or Rosecrans had joined me with 2,000 men, as promised, and at the time agreed upon, we could have taken Tuscumbia before the infantry force reached there. Now we shall have to march with all onr force, and all the mounted men I can raise. I shall rest and recruit here until I hear from you. Mv cavalry force is about 1,000; infantry 3,100. The fighting has been sharp, but they could not stand; their cavalry force was so large that they kept a large force in rear and front, but I prepared my train at Bear Creek, and left force with it. I send this by a gunboat, which will await at Hambnrgfor an answer. Tennessee River is rising, and Captain Fitch will report the prospect of his gettingup. He thinks he can goup in two or three days. I believe I can take them by landing a force in their rear and attacking in front. I have sent dispatches every day, but get no answer; expect they are taken; so send this by gunboat. I have returned to my train and taken a position I can hold, to await news from you. Itwill be impossible for Rosecrans cavalry, in my opinion, to pass Tuscumbia, except I take it and hold it, while theyare gone, in connection with gunboats. Where is the Marine Brigade? G. M. DODGE, Brigadier-Genera?. General Dodge adds, in dispatch to me, that enemy was re.enforced by a division of infantry (4,000) yesterday. Send me reply soon as possible, and, if it can be done, I should like to take also the Forty-third Ohio, now at Bethel, as it belongs to my brigade. JOHN W. FULLER, Colonel, Commanding. I have dispatched Colonel Fuller as follows: Call in the Forty-third Ohio, and move with your brigade to support of Dodge; take one battery and the extra rounds of artillery ammunition he asks for, if you have it at Corinth. I will send 2,000 infantry to Corinth to-morrow. Start at earliest moment. Telegraph me when you can get off, and how much force you will leave at Corinth. IR. J. OGLESBY, Major- General. General S. A. HURLEUT. CORINTH, April 25, 186311.20 p. m. GENERAL: Have just received the following from General Dodge, in cipher: TuscuMmA, 24th5p. m. General OGLESBY: I have taken this place without any severe fighting. The enemy steadily opposed our advance, but no battle at crossing of Little Bear. It was a pretty little fight. I shall go forward in the morning, and help Streight in his movement all I can. They ran cars in here two days ago; repaired railroad. It is said here that Johnston says he cannot send any more re-enforcements. I think the entire force ahead does not exceed 5,00Q men. I will look out for my command ~1ps~ ~i~all take Florence Page 245 CHAP. XXXVfl EXPEDITIONS TO COURTLAND, ALA, ETC. 245 day. Our advance creates ~reat consternation. They are in full belief that this is a flank movement on Johnston, and so informed him. I do not dispute it, and will make him back out, if possible. G. M. DODGE, Commanding. Will send no other message to-night. Yours, H. J. OGLESBY, Major- General. General S. A. IIURLBTJT. HEADQUARTERS LEFT WING, SIXTEENTH ARMY CORPS, Jackson, Tenn., May 3, 1863. SIR: I have the honor to report the results of the expedition of Brig. Gen. G. M. Dodge into Alabama, furnIshed to me by telegraphic dis- patches from that office. The expedition left Corinth April 14, 4,000 infantry, 1,500 cavalry and mounted infantry, with two light batteries, and was re-enforced on the 21st by Fullers brigade (about 2,000), the Seventh Kansas Cav- alry, and one battery. His forces were engaged four timesat Bear Creek, Little Bear, Leighton, and Town Creek; captured 40 prisoners, 900 head of horses and mules, 60 bales of cotton, and a large amount of I)rovisions destroyed 1,500,000 bushels of corn and a large amount of bacon, three tan-yards, and five mills; took the towns of Tuscumbia and Florence, a~nd destroyed 60 fiat-boats on the Tennessee River, break- ing up every ferry from Eastport to Courtland. Cattle, sheep, and hogs were captured and used by the thousands. Nothing was left in the valley that would in the least aid the enemy. General Dodge turned over to Colonel Streight 500 animals, 12 mule teams and wagons complete, and all his hard bread. A large number of refugees and negroes joined him on his return. His loss, all told, does not exceed 100; 3 only were killed, some 40 taken prisoners, and the residuemost of themslightly wounded. The enemys loss was heavy at Bear Creek, Leighton, and Town Creek. They report a loss of 300. The enemy on Tuesday, April 28, fell back to Decatur. (in Wednesday, General Dodge began his return march to Corinth, with a large force threatening his right flank at Florence. Dodge broke down and wore out 400 animals. On his return, he destroyed the ra1l- road bridge and telegraph between Courtland and Tuscumbia. He has rendered useless the garden spot of Alabama for at least one year, be- sides inflicting a deserved chastisement upon a most unrelenting com- munity of intense rebel sympathizers. He reports, more particularly in regard to Colonel Streight~s movements, that the information ma~ go to Major-General Rosecrans, as follows: Colonel Streight left Tuscumbia Sunday night, the 26th; moved to Mount Hope on Monday, and to Moulton on Tuesday. He was supplied with very poor animals; 400 of them broke down between Palmyra, on the Cumberland River, and Tuscumbia. With those Dodge turned over to him, he had 1,600 on leaving Moulton, Tuesday night, April 28. At that time no enemy was after him, as Dodge had engaged them up to that time. Roddey and Forrest then heard of 5treight~s movement, and, supposing it a flank attack on Decatur, instantly fell back to that place. Streight thus had two days start, but his men were so badly mounted he would have to lose some time to pick up 200 more animals at Moul- ton. From there he proposed to go by the way of Blountsville and strike the Coosa River. Dodge supplied him with rations to last hi Page 246 246 KY., MID. AND E. TENN., N. ALA., AND SW. VA. LOHAP. XXXV. to the Coosa Valley, where, it is supposed, he dan help himself. If his command holds out, he will succeed, as. the enemy cannot follow him very fast. He got the mountains between him and them. They fell back (5,000 strong) to Decatur. The report yesterday was that Van Dorn had sent part of his force from Florence to cross over at Decatur. Dodge heard nothing from Streight after the latter left Moulton. All things being favorable, he has finished his work by this time. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, B. J. OGLESBY, Major- General, U. S. Volunteers. Lient. Col. HENRY BINMoRE, Asst. Adjt. Gen., Sixteenth Army Corps, Memphis, Tenn. No. 3. Reports of Brig. Gen. Grenville M. Dodge, U. S. Army, commanding ex pedition. HEADQUARTERS DISTRICT OF CORINTU, May 2, 1863. GENERAL: My command is coming in. I send brief report. We had four fights, viz, at Bear Creek, Little Bear, Leighton, and Town Creek. Captured about 40 prisoners, 900 head of mules and horses, 60 bales of cotton, and a large amount of provisions, and destroyed at least 1,500,000 bushels of corn and a large amount of bacon, 3 tan-yards, and 5 mills; took the towns of Tuscumbia and Florence, and destroyed about 60 flat- boats on the Tennessee River, breaking up every ferry from Eastport to Courtland. A large number of refugees and negroes joined us, and we have rendered useless for this year the garden spot of Alabama. Our loss does not exceed 100, all told. The enemy~s loss was heavy at Bear Creek, Leighton, and at Town Creek; about 300, from their reports. They fell back from Town Creek to Decatur. 1 turned over 500 animals to Colonel Streight, and broke down at least 400 more. Cattle, sheep, cows, and hogs we captured and used by the thousands, and I did not leave a thing in the valley that Icon- sidered would in the least aid the enemy. We crossed Bear Creek on floating bridges, and Town Creek on the - railroad bridge. On my return, I destroyed the railroad bridge and telegraph from Courtland to Tuscumbia. G. M. DODGE, Brigadier- General. Maj. Gen. B. J. OGLESBY, Jackson, Teun. CORINTh, MISS., May 5, 1863. SIR: I have the honor to submit the following report of the expedi- tion up the Tuscumbia Valley to Courtland, Ala. The intention and plan of the movement was to cover a raid by Colonel Streight, of Major. General Bosecrans command, into Georgia, to break up the Atlanta and Chattanooga Railroad. Colonel Streight was to meet me with his brigade at Eastport, on Thursday, April 16. I moved from Corinth with the Second Division, Sixteenth Army Corps, Wednesday, April 15. Camped at Burnsville. The next da Page 247 ChAin XXXV.1 EXPEDITIONS TO COURTLAND, ALA, ETC. 247 moved to Cooks, 2~ miles west of Great Bear Creek, and made my pre- parations to cross, the rebels holding the opposite side. Friday morning, April 17, I made a feint at Jackson and Bailings Fords, and, under the cover of my artillery, threw the most of my force across at Steminines Ford. The cavalry, under Colonel Cornyn ,and mounted infantry, under Lieutenant.Colonel Phillips, made the crossing and pushed forward. My instructions were for them to go forward 34 miles, and await my coming. Colonel Cornyn, meeting the enemy about a mile out, com- menced fighting them, they falling back rapidly. flearing of Colonel floddey commanding a force of the enemy on my left flank, I sent or- ders forward for the command to halt; but before the messenger got to him, Colonel floddey bad got between the cavalry and infantry. The Third Brigade being in advance, commanded by Colonel Bane, who, ascertaining this fact, pushed forward and fell upon their rear, but not until Colonel Roddey had taken two pieces of artillery, 22 men, and one company of mounted infantry, who were guarding it, which, through neglect, had been allowed to fall 3 miles in the rear of the advance. Colonel Cornyn hearing firing in the rear, immediately fell back, and, with the First Alabama Cavalry, charged the rebels and retook the artillery and caissons, with the exception of one gun, which the enemy succeeded in getting off with. The charge of the Alabamians with muskets only, and those not loaded, is credit able, especially as they are all new recruits and poorly drilled. In this charge, Captain Cameron, the commanding officer of the Alabama cavalry, a deserving and much lamented officer, was killed. Colonel Bane, on his arrival, disposed of his troops admirably. Colo- nel Cornyn advanced with his cavalry as a feint, and the rebels ad- vanced to meet him. He fell back to the rear of the infantry, which was posted under cover and out of sight on both flanks of the cavalry. On the appearance of the enemy, the infantry opened a heavy and de- structive fire, which caused the rebels to fall back in confusion, utterly routed. This days work brought us 13 miles in advance of the main force. Colonel Streight not arriving, I fell back with the advance to Great Bear Creek, where the rest of the command was posted, to await his coming. Sunday afternoon, Colonel Streight commenced landing his force at Eastport. but caine poorly prepared for his contemplated movement. He had 2,000 infantry and about 1,000 mules. At least 400 of them were unserviceable, and in unloading them, through the carelessness of one of his officers, 200 strayed away. He was under the impression that he would find plenty of stock in the valley to mount the rest and replace those broken down. During Monday and Tuesday we scoured the country, and gathered all we could.. Tuesday night, Colonel Fullers brigade, from Corinth, joined me. Wednesday morning, I advanced with all the force, and came up with the enemy at Rock Cut, 5 miles west of Tuscumbia; planted my bat- teries and drove them out of it, taking the line of Little Bear Creek that night. The enemys position was a very strong one, and there was but one way to dank it. The enemy fell back as soon as I brought the infantry to bear upon them. Thursday we moved, crossing at three places, throwing my cavalry, by the Frankfort and Tuscumbia road, into the enemys rear; but durin Page 248 248 KY., MID. AND E. TENN., N. ALA., AND SW. VA. [CHAr. XXXV. the night, anticipating this movement, the enemy fell back. We reached Tuscumbia about noon, and, after slight skirmishing, took possession of the city. 1 immediately dispatched Lieutenant-Colonel Phillips, with two squadrons of mounted infantry, two squadrons of the Fifteenth liii. nois Cavalry, and a section of Welkers battery, to take Florence. They refused to surrender, when Colonel Phillips immediately opened on the town. A few shell brought them to terms, and we occupied the place. At the same time I ordered Colonel Cornyn forward toward Courtland, to feel the enemy. He came up with their rear some 2 miles beyond Leighton. The command consisted on our part of the Tenth Missouri and Seventh Kansas Cavalry, about 800 in all, driving the enemy 8 miles. The rebel force was 3,500, beside one battery. The fighting of the cav- alry against such odds is beyond all praise. The next morning cavalry fell back to Tuscumbia, to await the ad- vance of the main column. Finding it impossiUe to obtain stock to mount Colonel Streights com- mand, I took horses and mules from my teams and mounted infantry, and fnrnished him some 600 head, mounting all but 200 of his men. I also turned over all my hard bread, some 10,000 rations, and he left me at midnight on the 26th instant, with the intention of going through Bus- sellville, Monlton, and Blountsville to Gadsden, then divide, one force to strike Rome and the other Etowah Bridge. I moved forward Monday morning, and drove the enemy across Town Creek that nio-ht and ascertained that they were in force, under For- rest, on the opposite bank. That night I communicated with Colonel Streight, at Mount Hope, and ascertained that he was all right. Tnesday morning, the creek rose 10 feet, and the current was so swift that neither horse nor man could cross. I immediately made disposi- tion to cross at three points, to cover the railroad bridge and throw across foot bridges. The resistance of the enemy was very strong, and their sharpshooters very annoying. The artillery duel was very fine, parts of Welkers, Taunraths, Richardsons, and Robinsons batteries taking part in it. The practice on both sides was excellent. The Parrott guns drove the enemy away from their pieces, disabling and keeping them away for two hours, but the fact of my being unable to cross infantry prevented our securing them. About noon I crossed the railroad bridge with the Eighty-first Ohio and Ninth Illinois Infantry, and soon after crossed the rest of my force, except the artillery, on foot bridges, and drove the enemy within 3 miles of Courtland, when they, hearing of the force at Moulton, fled to Deca- tur. I followed up, and then returned to camp at Town Creek that night, being unable to cross any of my artillery. Colonef Streight reached Moulton Tuesday night, and commenced crossing the mountains Wednesday, having got nearly two days start of them. They supposed he was making for Decatur, and only discov- ered Wednesday that he was crossing the mountains toward Georgia. Having accomplished fully the object of the expedition, and drove the encmy, which was 5,500 strong, to Decatur, and having been on half rations for a week, I fell back to Tuscumbia, in order to communicate with transports, to obtain rations and ammunition. On arriving there I received information that the gunboats had gone down the river, taking the transports with them, a part of Van Dorns force having made their appearance on the north side of the Tennessee River, and shelled South Florence that day at 4 p. m. They also planted a battery at Savannah and Duck River; but my precaution in destroying all means of cross- Page 249 CHAP. XXXV.] EXPEDITIONS TO OOIJRTLAND, I ETC. 249 ing the river on my advance, prevented him getting in my rear, and the gunboats, to save the transports, left the day before, having a short engagement at Savannah and Duck River. Van Dorns force then moved toward Decatur. That was the last we heard of them. On my return, I burned all provisions, produce, and forage, all mills and tan-yards, and destroyed everything that would in any way aid the enemy. I took stock of all kinds that I could find, and rendered the valley so destitute that it cannot be occupied by the Confederates, ex- cept provisions and forage are transported to them. I also destroyed telegraph and railroad between Tuscumbia and Decatur, and all the ferries between Savannah and Courtland. I have no doubt but that Colonel Streight would have succeeded had he been properly equipped, and joined me at the time agreed upon. The great delay in an enemys country necessary to fit him out gave them time to throw a large force in our front. Although Colonel Streight had two days start, they can harass him, and perhaps check his movements long enough for them to secure all their important bridges. If he could have started from Bear Creek the day I arrived there, then my movements would have been so quick and strong that the enemy could not have got their forces together. The animals furnished him were very poor at the start. Four hun- dred of them were used up before leaving me, and those furnished him by me were about all the serviceable stock he had, though I hear he got 200 good mules the day he left me, in Moulton Valley. On my return, I sent Colonel Cornyn, with the Tenth Missouri, Seventh Kansas, and Fifteenth Illinois Cavalry, and Ninth Illinois Mounted In- fantry, to attack the force congregated at Tupelo and Okolona. He came up with the enemy on Wednesday, and immediately attacked them, they beiug some 3,000 strong, under Major-General [S. J.] Gholson and Brigadier-General IRuggles. Brigadier-General Chalmers, with 3,500 men, was at Pontotoc, but failed to come to Gholsons aid, though ordered to. Colonel Cornyn fought so determinedly and so fast that he soon routed the force iu his front, driving them in all directions, killing and wound- ing a large number and taking 100 prisoners, including some 7 officers; also a large number of arms and 150 horses, saddles, & c. The enemy fled toward Okolona and Pontotoc, and Colonel Cornyn returned to Corinth. The expedition, so far, can be summed up as having accomplished the object for which it started, the infantry having marched 250 miles and the cavalry some 400, and fought six successful engagements, driving the enemy, 3,000 strong, from Bear Creek to Decatur, taking the towns of Tuscumbia and Florence, with a loss not to exceed 100, includiug 3 officers. Destroyed 1,500,000 bushels of corn, besides large quantities of oats, rye, and fodder, and 500,000 pounds of bacon. Captured 150 pris- oners, 1,000 head of horses and mules, and an equal number of cattle, hogs, and sheep; also 100 bales of cotton, besides keeping the whole command in meat for three weeks. Destroyed the railroad from Tus- cumbia to Decatur; also some 60 fiat-boats and ferries in the Tennes- see River, thereby preventing VIm Dorn, in his move, from crossing to my rear; also destroyed five tan-yards and six flouring mills. It has rendered desolate one of the best granaries of the South, pre- venting them from raising another crop this year, and taking away from them some 1,500 negroes. We found large quantities of shelled corn, all ready for shipment, also bacon, and gave it to the flames Page 250 250 KY., MID. AND E. TENN., N. ALA., AND SW. YA. [CHAP. XXXV. I cannot speak too highly of the conduct of the officers and troops under my command. They were guilty of but one disobedience of ordersin burning some houses between Town Creek and Tuscumbia; on the discovery of which I issued orders to shoot any man detected in the act. After that nothing was burned except by my order. The fighting of the cavalry was excellent. The Tenth Missouri, Seventh Kansas, Fifteenth Illinois, and First Alabama all did themselves credit; they invariably drove the enemy, no matter what their force. The disposition of the troops at Lundys Lane, by Colonel Bane~ Fiftieth Illinois, was very creditable, and the management of the right, by General Sweeny; at the Rock Cut, also deserves mention. Lieuten- ant-Colonel Phillipss handling his men in action drew the commendation of all. Colonel Cornyn, of the cavalry brigade, made some fine charges, and his fightingcannot be excelled. His advance on the first day was injudicious, and against my instructions, and came very near causing trouble; otherwise he managed his command very creditably. The Pioneer Corps, under Captain [D. F.] Tiedemann, built two bridges across Bear Creek, and also several minor ones. Their long marches and night work deserve to be mentioned. To my staff 1 am indebted for valuable service. Captaiu [G. E.] Spencer, assistant adjutant-general; Captain [0. J.] Dodds, acting as- sistant quartermaster; Captain [C. C.] Carpenter, commissary of- sub- sistence; Captain [W.] Hanna; Major [G. H.] Stone, chief of artillery; Lieutenant [J. W.] 113 ames, aide-de-camp, and Dr. [W. 13.] Marsh, medical director, all accompanied me. Reports of killed and wounded have already been forwarded. I am, very respectfully, your obedient servant, G. M. DODGE, Brigadier-General. Capt. S. WAIT, Assistant Adjutant-General, Left Wing, Sixteenth Corps. [Indor8ement.] HDQRS. LEFT WING, SIXTEENTH ARMY CORPS, Jackson, Tenn., May 28, 1863. The within report of Brig. Gen. G. M. Dodge is respectfully trans. mitted. Having heretofore made report of this expedition, based upon dispatches from Brigadier-General Dodge, I send this forward without further remark, and ask attention to the names of officers favorably mentioned by him. R. J. OGLESBY, Major. General. CORINTH, ]Iliay 6, 1863. GENERAL: Cornyn came up with the enemy near Blackland, and gave them a thorough whipping, taking several prisoners and considerable stock. He pushed ou. Major [J. C.] Smith, Fifth Ohio Cavalry, fell upon them, considerably scattered, yesterday, killing 1, wounding 10, and brought in 1 captain and 11 privates prisoners; also 11 horses, 3 mules, & c. I sent the Alabamians to strike Pikeville, Marion County, and get the stock run into that place. G. M. DODGE, Brigadier.GeneraS~ Maj. Gen. R. J. OGLESEY, Jacksou, Tenn Page 251 Gii& r. X~XVd EXPEDITIONS TO COURThAND, ALA., ETC. No. 4. Report of Got. Florence M. Cornyn, Tenth Missouri Cavalry, commanding brigade, and including action (May 5) at Kings Creek, near Tupelo, Miss. HEADQUARTERS CAVALRY BRIG-ADE, Corinth, May 16, 1863. CAPTAIN: I have the honor to submit for consideration the follow- ing report of the transactions of the cavalry brigade which I had the honor to command on the recent expeditions in which it was engaged: On the receipt of news from Glendale, and in pursuance of instruc- tions from Headquarters District of Corinth, Department of the Ten- nessee, this command, consisting at that time of the Tenth Missouri Cavalry, Lieutenant-Colonel Bowen, and the Fifteenth Illinois Cav- alry, Major Gilbert, proceeded, on Tuesday, April 14, to the above place, to assist in repelling the enemy, who was said to be making an at- tempt upon that post. On our arrival there, we found that the enemy, variously estimated as to strength, had been repelled, and that the First Alabama Cavalry, under Captain Cameron, had started in pur- suit. I, with my command, determined to start also in pursuit. At Glendale we were joined by the Ninth Illinois Mounted Infantry, com- manded by Lieut. Col. J. J. Phillips, who reported to me, and joined in the chase. We drove the enemy through and beyond Burnsville, over- taking at this place the FirstAlabama Cavalry, where we left them, under orders to repair abridge over Yellow Creek, and guard a forage train that was expected to arrive at that point during the night. The balance of the command pushed on in close pursuit after the flying rebels, pausing only at nightfall, and going into camp about 4 miles west of Inka. It might not be improper here to remark that but for the fact that the almost impassable condition of the roads at some points prevented the moving as fast as desirable of the howitzers attached to the Tenth Mis- souri Cavalry, we would have come up with -the enemy~s force on that day, and driven him to or beyond Great Bear Creek. On the following day (Wednesday, the 15th) we moved through Inka, to Cooks farm, on the Memphis and Charleston Railroad, and went into camp, to await orders. About 10 oclock that night we were joined by the First Alabama Cavalry. On the afternoon of Thursday, the 16th, the whoPe of the command of Brig. Gen. G. M. Dodge came up and encamped on the same plantation. In pursuance of orders, the next morning, being Friday, the 17th, the whole command moved from its encampment and proceeded to Great Bear Creek, this brigade lead- ing the advance. At the creek a halt was made, and, after some shelling of the opposite shore, the cavalry were ordered to ford, which was immediately done, and with alacrity. The Ninth Illinois Mounted Infantry still formed a portion of the cavalr.y brigade, which, at this time, consisted of the Tenth Missouri Cavalry, the First Alabama Cav- alry, the Fifteenth Illinois Cavalry, and the Ninth Illinois Mounted Infantry, amounting, in all, to about 1,050 fighting men. The creek was crossed without any opposition, our batteries still shelling the opposite side, and many of them falling amongst this coin- mand; but, fortunately, no one was hurt. I immediately started out on the road to Tuscumbia, having previously ordered two squadrons of the Tenth Missouri Cavalry and a company of the Ninth Illinois Mounted Infantry to take a road leading off to the left and north of the main road, to develop the enemy, should it turn out that he ha Page 252 252 ~KY., MID. AND E. TLNN., N. ALA., AND SW. VA. [CHAr. XXXV. taken that route, as some of his flying pickets had moved off in that direction. Deploying skirmishers on my right and left flanks, and throwing out vedettes to my front, I moved on rapidly toward Tuscum- bia, and, at a distance of about 1~ miles, my advanced skirmishers came up with a small squad of the enemy, and drove them on down the road for a distance of about 4 miles. The enemy frequently showed himself in line across the road directly in front of ns, but always out of range for our rifles, until we arrived at Dickson, and a little beyond that point he engaged our advance guard; and, in order to gain time to close up my column, let down the fence, and deploy to the right and left of the road, I ordered Captain Tanurath, of the First Missouri Light Artillery, who had reported to me with a section of his battery, to open on them with shell, which he did, with good execution. Here Lieut. N. B. Klaine, of the Tenth Missouri Cavalry, was hit in the neck by a glancing ball, but very slightly hurt. Several of the rebel force were wounded at this point, and one of them, left upon the field, was found by us, severely wounded in the leg by a shell. He afterward died. After a few rounds from the battery, the enemy hastily retired, closely pursued by us, until he reached Buzzard Roost, where he reformed across the road, his right and left flanks extending into the woods, and his left flank was massed in considerable force. Here we threw a few shell and scattered his left flank into the woods. I ordered Lieuten- ant-Colonel Phillips to dismount and deploy his command to the left of the road as skirmishers, to dislodge the enemys right. Great praise is due to Lieutenant.Colonel Phillips for the manner in which he executed this order, he himself acting with commendable coolness and courage, and his officers and men exhibiting all the characteristics of true bravery. They advanced to within short musket.range of the enemy, and, by their cool and deliberate firing, succeeded in driving him on. He was imme- diately pursued by the cavalry, with slight skirmishes, beyond Barton Station, and on to within a short distance of Caney Creek, where the command halted in a clover field to rest our animals and men. In the mean time the two squadrons of the Tenth Missouri Cavalry, com- manded by Capt. P. Kaughton and Lient. H. C. McCullough, and the company of mounted infantry under Lieut. IR. B. Patterson, proceeded by the route already indicated, and c& me upon a force of the enemy, and drove them to and beyond what was said to be the .camp of the rebel Colonel Roddey, whose force then was estimated at about 600 men. Jn driving them, owing to the greater distance they had to make, they forced them out on to the main road and into our rear. Here an un- fortunate affair occurred, which, as it could not be helped, can only be deplored. Just after the skirmish at Buzzard Roost, Captain Taun- rath reported to me that he was out of ammunition. I directed him to send back word for his caissons to come up with a supply, and in the mean time for the guns to fall to the rear, to keep them from being in the way of the cavalry, intending that he should move immediately in the rear of the column. Either owing to the misunderstanding of my order or to the fatigue of the horses, the guns, instead of following up %lirectly behind, fell to the rear, to the distance of nearly 2 miles, and when the flying rebels that were being driven by Captain Naughtons command came upon them, the guns, which were under the charge of Lieutenant [J. F.] Brunner, of the battery, were charged, and after all the resistance that could be opposed to them by a company of the Ninth Illi. nois, which had been ordered to guard them, they were taken, together with the most of the gun support. The whole number of men lost b Page 253 CHAP. XXXV.] EXPEDITIONS TO COURTLAND, ALA., ETC. 253 us here amounted to 43, including Lieut. Edward Krebs, who commanded the company guarding the pieces. While my animals and men were resting as already stated, word came to me of the attack upon our rear and the taking of the guns. I im- mediately ordered the First Alabama Cavalry, Captain Cameron, to move down the road to our rear and attack the rebels, and recapture, if possible, the guns. Ordering the Fifteenth Illinois Cavalry, Major Gilbert, and Captain Bruns squadron of the Tenth Missouri Cav- alry to follow, and leaving Lieutenant-Colonel Phillips command and the remainder of the Tenth Missouri Cavalry, under Lieutenant-Colonel Bowen, to protect the front, I moved out on the road, and soon came in sight of the enemy, with the two guns, when I ordered a charge by the First Alabama Cavalry, which, I am sorry to say, was not obeyed with the alacrity it should have been. After charging to within short musket- range of the enemy, they halted for some cause I cannot account for, and the enemy escaped to the woods with one of the pieces and limber of the other, it having been previously thrown down the railroad excavation. Here Captain Camerdn was killed, and a private of the Tenth Missouri Cavalry and one of the First Alabama Cavalry, but not until after they had desisted from the charge, when the enemy turned and poured a per- fect hail of lead into our ranks. About this time 6 men of the Tenth Missouri, that I had stationed, by order of General Dodge, to guard the house of one Mr. Goodloe, were taken by the enemy. The enemy, having fled to the woods, kept up such a constant fire upon us that 1 ordered Captain Bruns, with his squadron and the Fifteenth Illinois Cavalry, into afield, with instructions to move toward the edge of the woods, and return the fire. I also ordered the howitzer squadron into the same field to shell the woods, which was done with great credit to the officers and men, doi~hig fine execution. In order to prevent any movement of the rebels from dividing my command, as they outnumbered us nearly three to one, I ordered that portion of my command which I had left on the front to close in on the balance, and moved back down the road nearly a mile, so placing the enemy once more on my front. Here I halted, and ordered my command to move into a field in column of sQuad- rons. This had hardly been accomplished when the enemy was seen in line of battle on the brow of a hill about a mile distant from us, and moving toward us. I at once ordered out my force into a field immedi- ately to the east of the one occupied by us, with orders to form and wait the demonstrations of the enemy. Here allow me to say that it has been erroneously reported that at this juncture I sent back for re-enforce- ments. I did not do so, for at no time did I fuel that my force was inadequate to beat the rebels, and, on the contrary, I had the fullest confidence in my officers and men, and felt that I could hold my ground, and even drive the enemy with them should I choose to do so. At this juncture of affairs, Colonel Bane arrived with a portion of his brigade, when I requested him to order Captain Welker, First Mis- souri Light Artillery, to open on the rebels with a section of his bat- tery, my own guns being of too short range to reach them. While get. ting his guns into position, Captain Welkers movements must have been observed by the enemy, for he immediately began to move to the right and left. A portion of my command immediately charged them and drove them to their usual shelterthe woods. All my command was moved simultaneously toward the enemy, the mounted infantry on the north side of the railroad and the cavalry on the south side. Here a brisk firing was kept up by musketry on both sides, until I ordered the mountain howitzers to ~nove up in range and shell the brush, whic Page 254 254 KY., MID. AND E. TENN., N. ALA., AND SW. VA. [CHAP. XXXY. was obeyed promptly, and I had the satisfaction of seeing the enemys fire slacken and in a few minutes quit altogether. Moving my com- mand still farther to the east, and facing the enemy, I consulted with Colonel Bane for a few moments, and it was decided to fall back beyond a slight bill to our rear, so as to conceal our force, leaving the Ninth Illinois Mounted Infantry and a regiment of Colonel Banes command concealed in ambush, the former on the north side of the railroad, and the latter in the woods lately occupied by the enemy, on the south side. At the same time the artillery, consisting of Welkers and Richard- sons batteries, with their horses concealed behind the hill, was to be placed in battery just on its brow. At this time, and while the prelim- inaries were being arranged, the enemy opened on us with a piece of artillery. However, the arrangements agreed on were carried out, and in about half an hour, after all had settled down in quietness, the enemy made an attempt to move toward us, when the two infantry regiments, which had been left concealed, opened on them, emptying many sad- dles and driving them in dismay. Night was now, coming on, when we were joined by the balance of General Dodges command, and went into camp for the night, the two regiments of infantry already spoken of remaining in their concealment all night. The casu~lties happening to my command were very few. Our killed were Captain [James C.] Cameron and 2 privates. In the unfortunate matter of the capture of the guns, we lost 45, taken prisoners, including Lieutenant Krebs, commanditig the guard. The loss of the enemy was heavy, but I have no official means of getting at the exact number. On Saturday, April 18, in pursuance of instructions from General Dodge, my command was moved out toward Caney Creek, but did not proceed beyond the clover-field mentioned in the report of the trans. actions of the day before, and, after halting a short time, I received orders to fall back to Bear Creek, which 1 did, reaching that place and going into camp about nightfall. On the following day, Sunday, 19th, on the receipt of orders from headquarters, I started with my command, now reduced by the loss of the First Alabama Cavalry, which had been ordered to report to Colonel Bane, and Captain Fords squadron, of the Fifteenth Illinois Cavalry, which was doing orderly duty for General Dodge, and, taking a guide, moved by an unfrequented road around to Buzzard Roost Creek, hoping by this means to take the enemy in the rear. Owing, however, to the high stage of water in the creek, I was not able to cross it at the point desired, and by that means I emerged from the woods directly in the enemy~s front, and near the Widow Bartons plantation. Here, in a field and in the road, the enemy were drawn up to receive us. I sent forward the Fifteenth Illinois Cavalry, Maj. F. T. Qilbert, to skirmish with the enemy, and ordered Lieutenant-Colonel Phillips to dismount his command and deploy to the right and left as skirmishers, supporting him on the left by the Tenth Missouri Cavalry, Lieutenant-Colonel Bowen, at the same time directing Major Gilbert to move gradually to the right, to sup. port him on that flank. We gradually moved on the enemy, driving him to Buzzard Roost, and on the summit of the hill he made a halt. I at once ordered all hands to charge, which was done with a yell, the enemy retiring even more rapidly than we advanced. He again showed him- self in line at the edge of a wood, nearly a mile distant. Here I ordered a halt, and after several ineffectual attempts to draw him out, I concluded to fall back to camp. On our way back, we found the dead bodies of 5 rebels, lying at the place of our first encounter. We also captured a prisoner, the bearer of dispatches. On Monday, the 2Oth~ my ~Qmunandiay all day in camp at Bear Creek Page 255 CHAr. Xxxvi EXPEDITIONS TO COURTLAND, ALA., ETC. 255 On this day, the Seventh Regiment of Kansas Cavalry reported at my headquarters for duty. Tnesday and Wednesday, the 21st and 22d, we remained in camp awaiting orders. On Tuesday, the Ninth Illinois Mounted Infantry was taken from our command. On Thursday, the 23d, this brigade, with the whole of the command, moved from our camp at Great Bear Creek, and marched toward Tus- cumbia, taking the advance, and driving small squads of the enemy be- fore us, until about 1 p. in., when we went into camp, by order, about 2 miles west of Little Bear Creek, where we lay all night. On Friday, the 24th, still taking the lead of the main force, we moved off toward Tuscumbia, until within about a half a mile from the ford oil Little Bear Creek, when, by order of General Sweeny, we moved off to the right and south of the main road, and took a by-road, which led across an upper ford and into the Frankfort road, with instructions to march by that route on Tuscumbia, the Fifteenth Illinois Cavalry and two squadrons of the Seventh Kansas proceeding, by the main route, in advance of the main column. Owing to the difficult nature of the road and the greater distance traveled, my command did not reach Tuscum- bia nntil after the infantry and the main body of our force. Here I re- ceived instructions to move on through the town, taking with me the two squadrons of the Seventh Kansas that had preceded the command, and pursue the enemy toward the east, the Fifteehth Illinois Cavalry having gone, with the Ninth Illinois Mounted Infantry, toward Florence. I was also instructed to destroy as much of the railroad as possible, and return by night. In pursuance of the above orders, with my command, consisting at this time of the Seventh Kansas and Tenth Missouri Cavalry, numbering iu all about 800 men, I moved out toward Leigh. ton, ou the Memphis and Charleston Railroad. About 1 mile from Tus- cumbia we came upon the enemys trail, and distinctly saw traces of artillery. Moving on rapidly in pursuit, following the trail across sev- eral plantations until about 4 miles east of Tuscumbia, we struck the enemy himself. He rapidly retired, we pursuing. I here deployed the Seventh Kansas, under Lieutenant-Colonel Herrick, to the left of the road, dismounting his revolving-rifle squadrons as skirmishers, and the Tenth Missouri, with the exception of the howitzer and three other squadrons, to the right, in line of battle, under Lieutenant-Colonel Bowen. These last-named squadrons I kept in the center, under my own immediate command, to use, when occasion required, as chargers. The enemy retired a distance of about a mile, toward Leighton, and here, on the edge of a wood, to the right of the road, he had placed a piece of artillery, which opened on us the moment we got in range, his line of battle extending some distance to the right and left. At this juncture I ordered my left to move on through and around the woods on the left of the road that lay between it and the enemy, which was obeyed with alacrity; perceiving which, the rebels, after a few rounds of musketry from us, retired. About a mile from this point, they re- formed across the road, and opened on us with musketry and several pieces of artillery. I moved up the mountain howitzers close enough to give them range, and opened with shell and case-shot upon their battery, my right and left wings steadily advancing all the time. I soon had the satisfaction of seeing them draw off their artillery, just previous to which, however, a charge was made by a squadron on my left, belonging to the Seventh Kansas, around a clump of woods that partially concealed them from the enemy. The success of this charge was frustrated by the commanding officer, Capt. L. H. Utt, receiving a severe wound in his foot from a shrapnel from one of the enemy Page 256 256 KY., MID. AND B. TENN., N. ALA., AND SW. VA. [CHAP. XXXV. guns. After drawing off his artillery, he retired it a distance of about 500 yards, and, placing it behind some deserted negro quarters, again opened on us, with redoubled fury. Ordering a dismounted squad- ron of the Seventh Kansas and a squadron of the Tenth Missouri to support them, I moved my howitzers to the front, and opened a steady fire upon their battery, from a very short range, and soon suc- ceeded in silencing every one of their guns. This artillery duel lasted from twenty to thirty minutes, and, in the mean time, my right flank was steadily approaching the enemys line, and exchanging shots with it. While the cannonading was going on, a corporal of the Seventh Kansas was killed by a shell, and a corporal of the Tenth Missouri Cavalry was wounded severely in the foot. After the enemy ceased firing from his artillery, he rapidly withdrew it from the field, and re- tired from his position, on to within a short distance of Leighton, where he again formed, many of his men massed in the road, and his wings extending far to the right and left. Here a charge was made by my right wing upon the enemys line, which was formed in a field immedi- ately behind a fence. They charged up close to the enemy and within short pistol-range, and succeeded in driving and wounding several of them. In this charge Lieut. John S. Hazard, of the Tenth Missouri Cavalry, was severely wounded in the left arm. In the mean time, on the road, our battery had approached to within range, and sent a few shell into the enemys dense column on the road, putting it to a rapid retreat. From this on he retreated rapidly, moving through Leighton in apparent dis- may. At this place I learned the approximate force of his command. It consisted of Forrests, Boddeys, Baxters, and [W. It.] Julians commands, amounting, as 1 am informed, to about 3,500 men. The enemy did not pause until about 4 miles east of Leighton, where he formed in line of bat- tle at the extreme eastern edge of an immense plain, some 2 miles square. Here his line of battle seemed to extend from horizon to horizon. It having now approached toward sunset, and the enemy in full sight, I did not deem it prudent to return to Tuscumbia, but sent back a message to General T. W. Sweeny, stating my position and asking for re-enforce- ments and some heavier artillery, and, placing my pickets, went into camp for the night, the men sleeping on their arms. At early daybreak next morning (Saturday, the 25th), a portion of the Ninth Illinois Mounted Infantry, Colonel Mersy, came up to us with orders for us to fall back at once to Tuscumbia, which order I obeyed, reachino there about 10 a. m. Here we remained in camp until the fol- lowing day (Sunday, the 26th), when, in pursuance of orders, with the Tenth Missouri and Seventh Kansas, I proceeded to Bainbridge, on the Tennessee River, with orders to destroy any means of crossing that stream that I should find. Nothing of this kind, however, was found, and we returned to Tuscumbia, reaching there just after nightfall. On Monday, the 27th, taking the advance of the main force, we marched from Tuscumbia to Town Creek, our advance guard skirmishing with the enemy at that point. Arriving on the clear field on the bank of the creek, I formed my command in line of battle, and slowly approached its edge, and went into camp along a line of fence close to it. I was com- pelled, however, to withdraw from that camp and fall back, as the enemy opened on us with their artillery, throwing shell amongst us. On the following day (Tuesday, the 28th), nothing was done by my command except to send scouting parties in various directions; and on Wednesday, the 29th, sending out two squadrons of the Seventh Kansas to the north, and the Fifteenth Illinois to the south, to destroy all the forage that could be found, apd covering the return march of the mai Page 257 CHAP. XXXV.] EXPEDITIONS TO COURTLAND, ALA., ETC. 257 body, we moved toward Corinth. That night we encamped at Little Bear Creek. Thursday and Friday, the 30th of April and 1st of May, were occupied in marching as far as Bnrnsville, where I received orders to take ten days rations and march the following day from that point toward Tu- pelo, for the purpose of forming a junction with Colonel Hatch, who, it was supposed, would meet us at that point. Here four companies of the Ninth Illinois Mounted Infantry were added to my command, which, with the addition, amounted to about 900 effective men. On Saturday we started on the march to Tupelo, which place we reached on the following Tuesday, passing through Jacinto, Booneville, Cartersville, Baidwyn, and Gnntown, frequently skirmishing with the enemys scout- ing parties. As already stated, we arrived at Tupelo on Tuesday, May 5, and here we fought the best contested fight of the whole expedition. Just before entering the town of Tupelo, and to the east of the railroad, it is neces- sary to cross a dense and almost impassable swamp, on the western edge of which runs Old Town Creek. We had almost reached the western edge, and were approaching, as well as the nature of the swamp would permit, the bridge over this creek, when the enemy, entirely unseen by us, opened upon us with musketry. I immediately threw out to my right and left several squadrons of the Tenth Missouri, who succeeded in dis- lodging the enemy, and securing an easy passage of the bridge for the balance of the command. Still keeping my skirmishers out to my right and left, and an advance guard in the front, I moved down a lane to the left and south of the town, and massed my command in an open field, about 600 yards from the southern border of Tupelo. Here word was brought me from one of my skirmishing squadrons that the enemy were drawn up in line on their front, to the number of 600. I ordered two squadrons of the Seventh Kansas, that were armed with Colts revolv- ing rifles, to dismount and attack them on foot, supporting them with two squadrons of the Tenth Missouri (mounted), nuder Lieutenant-Colo- nel Bowen, with orders to charge with the saber as soon as the enemys line should break. This order, I am proud to say, was well obeyed and gallantly executed by both the mounted and dismounted soldiers, for the enemy retired, and for a few minutes all was silent along the lines. In about half an hour from the first attack, sharp firing was heard on my front~ and the enemy was advancing toward us with yells. I im- mediately moved my whole force to the rear and west of the village, and, placing my mountain howitzers upon the brow of a hill, I sent for- ward all the cavalry except one squadron of the Fifteenth Illinois, which I ordered to dismount and support the battery. Lieutenant-Colonel Phillips, commanding the Ninth Illinois Mounted Infantry, having beeu detailed for that purpose early in the morning, acted as the rear guard and guard for the train, and, knowing that the rear was iu such good hands, I felt no on that account; and this important trust was well sustained. As soon as my front had become fully engaged with the enemy, who fought with considerable determination, I ordered the battery to shell the woods from which the enemy was emerging. This fire was effective, and from that moment the battle became general. At one time two regiments of mounted infantry, commanded by the rebel General Iluggles, forced their way between my fighting column and my reserve but were suddenly induced to retire much more rapidly than they came. My left at one time fell back toward the battery, which then poured charge after charge of canister into the rebel ranks, with con- siderable effect, forcing them to retreat, rapidly followed by the cavalry. 17 R I~.-VOL XXIII, PT Page 258 258 KY., MID. AND E. TENN., N. ALA., AND SW. VA. [CHAP. XXXV. The enemy had scarcely begun to waver when his whole force fled in dismay, throwing away their arms, coats, and hats. Our loss amounted to 1 killed, 5 wounded, and 3 missing. We took from the enemy 81 prisoners, including 3 commissioned officers. On the field, the scene of the battle, immense quantities of arms, coats, and blankets were found and destroyed by us. I had no means of ascertaining the enemys loss in killed and wounded, but from the evidence of the battle-field it must have been heavy. His force consisted of [W. M.] Inges command, 400 strong, [C. R.] Barteans Second [Twenty-second] Tennessee Cavalry, 600 strong, and [J. F.] Smiths ~command, 1,000 strong. These were commanded by General Gholson. Also two regiments of mounted infantry and a num- ber of irregular conscripts, commanded by General iRuggles, which made the enemys force amount to about 3,500 men. The whole fight, from the skirmishing in the swamp until the retreat of the enemy, lasted about two hours and a half. That same night, after consultation with my field officers, and hearing no reliable news from Colonel Hatch, I started back toward Corinth, marching the whole of that night, all of the next day, and until a late hour at night, when I went into camp at Parson Yates plantation. On the morning of Thursday, the 7th, Maj. J. C. Smith, in command of the Fifth Ohio Cavalry, met us with orders to return immediately to Corinth. That night we encamped at Booneville, and on the following day we reached Corinth, having been almost constantly in the saddle twenty-five days. The fruits of our expedition were 81 prisoners taken and about 600 head of horses and mules captured. My officers and men are all entitled to great praise for their bravery and the unmurmuring patience with which they bore the fatigue, hard- ships, and privations of the march. My thanks are due to Lieutenant. Colonel Bowen, Lieutenant.Colonel Phillips, Lieutenant-Colonel Her. rick, Major Gilbert, Major Benteen, and Major Lnsk for their able and gallant assistance. Of the rest of the officers I must say that they all acted like heroes, and it would be invidious to name any of them in preference to others. The following is a list of the casualties happening to the command on the whole expedition.* a ~ a 9 Command. a ~ 0 10th Missom-iCavairy 1 9 14 7th Kansas Cavalry 1 5 -. 15th Illinois Cavalry - I 9th Illinois Mounted Infantry 43 lbt Alabama Cavalry 2 Total 4 19 59 RECAPITULATIOX. Killed 4 Wounded. - . - 19 Takon prisoners 59 Total 82 I remain, your obedient servant, FLORENCE M. CORNYN, Colonel Tenth Missouri Cavalry, Commanding Cavalry Brigade. Capt. GEORGE E. SPENCER, Assistant Adjutant- General. * Nominal list omitted Page 259 CHAP. XXXV.] EXPEDITIONS TO COIJRTLAND, ALA., ETC. 259 No. 5. Report of Got. Moses AT. Bane, Fiftieth illinois Infantry, commanding Third Brigade. HEADQUARTERS THIRD BRIGADE, Gorinth, Miss., May 19, 1863. SIR: In compliance with your order to report the part the Third Brigade boise in the action at Newsoms farm, and during the late expe- dition up the valley of the Tuscumbia, 1 submit the following: On arriving at Great Bear Creek, on Friday morning, with the bal- ance of your eommand, I was ordered by the general commanding to push forward two companies of skirmishers to take and holti the cross- ing of the creek, which was soon accomplished without any casualty, but a very few shots being exchanged with the enemys skirmishers. I then .received orders to cross my brigade and push forward to support the cavalry, under the direct command of Colonel Cornyn, which had already crossed and engaged the enemy 1 or 2 miles in advance of my command. Two regiments crossed in (leep, swift water to near their arms, carrying their clothing and accouterments on their bayonets over their heads. One regiment crossed on a small boat. One regiment (Thirty-ninth Iowa Infantry) was left (by order) to guard the ford. With three regiments, I pressed on. Was informed by you that the cavalry would not pursue the enemy that evening more than 2 miles, when I would go into camp with our cavalry. I soon distinctly heard firing in my front, and knew that it could not be less than 3 or 4 miles in ad- vance. I pressed on as rapidly as my command, which was in fine spirits, could march. I had gohe about 2 miles, when I received an order from the general commanding. On reading it, I found it was directed to Colonel Cornyn, but was to be read by myself before being sent forward to him. The purport of the order was for the colonel not to advance more than 3 to 5 miles, as there was an enemy on his left, which he alone could not meet. I sent the orderly on with the order and pushed forward as fast as we could march, still hearing the fighting in front, though it was growing more distant. On arriving at Dixons Station, I learned that a large force of cavalry and artillery had filed into the road at Cherokee, in Cornyns rear. I pressed forward as rapidly as possible, and soon reached Cherokee, where my skirmishers exchanged a few shots with the enemys rear guard and soon dispersed them, cap- turing 2 l)risoners~ While here, I received a reqnest from Colonel Cornyn to send a battery forward to his assistance. I immediately ordered Captain Welker to move forward as fast as the jaded condition of his horses would permit. Hurrying forward, I soon came up with Colonel Cornyn, who had his command in line of battle across a field, at Kewsoms. The enemy were in line about a quarter of a mile, but as soon as Welkers battery moved into the field the enemy fell back. I immediately moved the Seventh Illinois into the timber on the right, and the Fiftieth and Fifty-seventh illinois on the left of the field, and requested Colonel Cornyn to fall back with the cavalry, hoping that the rebels would attempt to follow him, and I could thus decoy them into a position where my infantry would have a cross-fire upon them. As soon as the cavalry had fallen back, the vanguard of the enemy came forward into the field, appar- ently unconscious of danger; but as they arrived opposite one of my regiments, some of the men, without orders, opened fire upon them, disabling a number of men and horses, but, unfortunately for us, di Page 260 260 KY., MID. AND E. TENN., N. ALA., AND SW. VA. [CHAL~. XXXV. covering our positIon to the enemy, who immediately fell back out of range of our guns, and opened upon us with their artillery, but, as my men were well sheltered, did us no damage. The general arrived about (lark, and directed me to fall back to Newsoms, where we bivouacked for the night. April 18, fell back to Buzzards Roost Creek. Saw nothing of the enemy all day. April 19, by direction of the general, placed my entire command in ambush near Buzzards Roost Creek, hoping to draw the enemy within my lines, but without success. At dark placed my men in camp. Re- mained at Buzzards Roost Creek until Tursday, April 23, when I moved forward, excepting the Fiftieth Illinois Infantry and one section of ar- tillery, which were left at Bear Creek to escort prisoners train. Reached Caney Creek, where I camped about 4 p. m. The detachment left to guard prisoner5~ train arrived about 11 p. in. Friday morning, left camp at 6 a. in., and reached Tuscumbia aV 1 p. in. Here the Seventh illinois were detached and sent to East Florence. April 27, at 5 oclock, Monday morning, moved forward to Leighton, where I was joined by the Seventh Illinois, camped about a mile west of Town Creek. Shortly after sunrise the next morning (Tuesday), the enemy, who were in force on the opposite side of Town Creek, opened upon us with their artillery. I immediately ordered Captain Richard- soii to take a position with his battery as near the enemy as possible and open fire upon them, which he did. The artillery firing was kept up until afternoon. By direction of the general, I constructed a foot-bridge over the creek in my front, and about 3 p. m. crossed the regiments of my bri- gade, the Fifty-seventh Illinois and -the battery being left near the bridge. Keeping out skirmishers about 200 paces in front, I advanced about 2 miles across a large field. The rear guard of the enemy were constantly in sight, but continually retreated upon the approach of my skirmishers. About dark, not having been able to discover the enemy in any force, received orders to fall back across the creek. Bivouacked in our camps of the night previous. April 29, 1863, broke camp at 5 a in., and marched in the direction of Tuscumbia. After four days marching, during which time nothing worthy of note occurred, we reached Corinth about 4 p. in. Saturday, May 2. The only casualty was 1 man of Company B, Seventh Illinois, who shot himself accidentally. Very respectfully, M. M. BANE, Colonel, Commanding. Capt. GEORGE E. SPENCER, Assistant Adjutant- General. No. 6. Itinerary of the Left Wing, & xteenth Army Gorps, April 15ilfay 1, 1863.* April 15, Second Division moved from Corinth. April 16, marched to Bear Creek. April 18, fought the enemy (Roddeys command) and drove them to Caney Creek, Alabama. From Record of Events, in return for April, 1863 Page 261 CHAP. XXXV~.] SKIRMISH NEAR EAGLEVILLE, TENN. 2G1 April 18, was joined by Colonel Streights brigade. April 23, moved from Bear Creek to Tuscumbia. April 24, drove the enemy from Little Bear Creek to Rock Cut. April 25, took Tuscumbia. April 26, took Florence. April 27, fought the enemy at Leighton, driving them to Town Creek, and fought them on the 28th, driving them to Courtland and Decatur. April 29, Colonel Streights brigade left Tuscumbia, and moved into Georgia via Blonntsville and Gad sden. May 1, returned to Corinth. The expedition captured about 40 prisoners and 1,000 head of horses and mules. Destroyed 1,500,000 bushels of corn, 500,000 pounds of bacon, 60 ferry-boats, 5 tan-yards, and 6 flouring-mills. APRIL 16, 1863..Skirmish near Eagleville, Tenn. REPORTS. No. l.Maj. Gen. Gordon Granger, U. S. Army. No. 2.Brig. Gen. William T. Martin, C. S. Army. No. 1. Report of ]Jiliaj. Gen. Gordon Granger, U. S. Army. FRANKLIN, April 16, 1863. GENERAL: Steedman says he had sharp skirmishing south of liar- peth to-day; killed some and took some prisoners, from whom he learns that Unionville has been re-enforced from Shelbyville, and that they intend attacking him in the morning. Perhaps they will give us both a trial. G. GRANGER, Major- General. General W. S. ROSECRANS. No. 2. Report of Brig. Gen. William I. Iiliartin, 0. 5. Army. UDQES. MARTINS CAVALRY Div., WHEELERS CORPS, April 17, 1863. MAJOR: Yesterday a skirmish occurred between the reserve of Colo- nel [Josiah] Pattersons pickets on the Chapel Hill and Union pike. The enemy in. force (about 300) advanced upon the pickets and were driven back 3 miles. We lost none in killed, but 4 were decoyed into an ambuscade and captured. The enemy lost a number of horses, and are supposed to have lost several killed. They were carried from the field. Colonel P. [Patterson] reports that his officers and men, only 80 in number, behaved gallantly. The enemys force (one regiment) is at College Grove, and is thought to have infantry supports. Colonel P. thinks the party is foraging. On this pike our scouts and a small scouting party of the enemy had a skirmish in sight of our picket lines; no casualties reported. I have ordered Captain [J. II.] Wiggin Page 262 262 KY., urn. AND E. TENN., N. ALA., AND SW. VA. (CHAP. XXXV. to turn in two of his old pieces as soon as the two howitzers arrive (now expected), and thus to save the old guns, as 1 have doubts about being able to carry them oft in case of an advance. Very respectfully, WILL. T. MARTJIK, Maj. ~. G. REED, Brigadier- General, Commanding. Assistant Adjutant- General, MicMinnville. APRIL 18, 1863.Skirmish at Hartsville, Tenn. Report of Brig. Gen. iJleazer A. Paine, U. S. Army. HEADQUARTERS UNITED STATES FORCES, Gallatin, Tenn., April 18, 1863. GENERAL: To-day at 10 a. m. 50 head of beef-cattle and 20 mounted men, of Stokes cavalry, were captured by a rebel regiment of infantry and 50 cavalry at or uear Hartsville. The cattle were on their way to General Crooks command. The rebels had wagons, and said that they were going into Kentucky. One of my scouts, who is a good detective, engaged-two or three tons of bacon this week for the Southern army, the bacon to be delivered at certain points near the river. He is to pay 30 cents iu Confederate money. I shall send him back with some of that money, to make small payments, and have the bacon delivered at certain points, where I in- tend to seize it. The sellers are violent rebels; defy our Government, and threateu every Union man and every man who takes the oath. I send you copy of letter to General Crook and his reply. I have the honor to be, very respectfully, your obedient servant, Brigadier- General, Commanding. Brig. Gen. JA~IEs A. GARFIELD, Chief of Staff. [Inolosure No. 1.] HEADQUARTERS UNITED STATES FORCES, Brigadier-General CROOK, Gallatin, Tenn., April 13, 1803. Commanding C~arthage, Tenn.: GENERAL: I am compelled again to send an additional escort with your mail. The last time I sent there were about 40 rebels watching your party, but did not attack, on account of the increased guard. I cannot spare my men. I have only 8 cavalry soldiers. The balance of mounted men are infantry. I have only five regiments, averaging about 400 men; no artillery, except what is in the fort, and no cavalry, ex- cept my orderlies. I have 30 miles of railroad and 60 of river and a niz~mber of public roads to guard. My forces cannot perform one-half of the duty as it ought to be done. Last night 70 rebels were crossed over the river to this side by swimming their horses. Their intention is to capture your mail. I send 60 additional guard, with orders not to surrender under any circumstances; but, general, I cannot send again. You must send a larger force. General Itosecrans is extremely anxiou Page 263 ChAr. XXXV~.J SKIRMISH AT CELINA, KY. 263 to ascertain the condition of things at Lebanon. Any information you can send him on that subject will enable him to arrive at a correct understanding of affairs along the river. I have the honor to be, very respectfully, your obedient servant, E. A. PAINE, Brigadier- General, Commanding. (Inclosare No. 2.] CARTHAGE, TET~., April 15, 1863. General E. A. PAINE, Commanding Gallatin, Tenn.: SIR: I send mail this morning. I cannot possibly spare more than the number of men I have been sending with the mail. I shall, how. ever, endeavor to make them safe by keeping expeditions on the river between here and you. The rebels had left Lebanon, and were at New Middleton last night. Part of my command had a skirmish with them there yesterday. I am under many obligations for the escort you sent with mail. I hope in future there will be no necessity. I am, sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant, GEORGE CROOK, Brigadier.Generai. APRIL 19, 1863.Skirmish at Celina, Ky. REPORTS. No. l.Maj. Gen. Horatio G. Wright, U. S. Army. No. 2.Brig. Gen. Edward H. Hobson, U. S. Army. No. 3.Col. Felix W. Graham, Fifth Indiana Cavalry. No. 1. Report of Maj. Gen. Horatio G. Wright, U. S. Army. CINCINNATI, OHIO, April 23, 18633.20 p. m. The following dispatch has just been received: HEADQUARTERS, Louisville, ApriL 22. The expedition to Celina was entirely successful. Colonel Graham reports, through General Hobson, that they destroyed the town, 100,000 pounds bacon, 10,000 ~bnshels wheat2 10,000 bushels corn, 100 barrels whisky, 100 barrels of flour, considerable quantity of sugar, coffee, tea, meat, and other stores, and 40 boats, which had been used in transporting supplies from Burkesville and other points on the Cumberland. Rebels report a loss of 90 killed, but Colonel Graham, commander of the expedition, is of the opinion that the number is greater. We had 1 wounded and 1 missing. This result is highly creditable to the troops engaged. Indeed, it was a perfect suc- cess. The forces have returned to Glasgow. WRIGHT, Brigadier-GeneraL. I go to Indianapolis to-morrow morning. A. E. BUENSIDE, Major- General, Commanding. Maj. Gen. H. W. HALLECK, General-in- Chief Page 264 264 RY., MID. AND E. TENY., N. ALA., AND SW. VA. (CHAP. ~XV. No. 2. Report of Brig. Gen. Edward H. Hobson, U. S. Army. MUNFORDYILLE, April 20, 186310 a. m. GENERAL: Troops of my command attacked Hamiltons command at Celina, Teun., on Saturday, destroying his camp and killin~ 7 of his men. Sunday morning they took possession of the town, killing 30. Rebels in fall retreat and in perfect disorder. My force consisted of 1,200 men and two pieces of artillery. Rebel force estimated at from 1,200 to 1,500. E. H. HOBSON, Brigadier- General. Maj. Gen. W. S. ROSECRANS. No. 3. Report of Col. Felix W. Graham, Fifth Indiana Cavalry. IN CAMP OPPOSITE CELINA, April 19, 1863. I arrived at this place at 4 p. m. Opened fire oti [0. P.] Hamiltons camp, driving him and killing 7. I have possession of (Jelina. Hamil- tons camp is entirely destroyed. The minors are very conflicting. Rebels report 3,000 men back of town. I think 1,100 will cover the entire number, all told. I will move on after the rebels to-day. River not fordable. F. W. GRAHAM, Brig. ~I1en. E. H. HOBSoN. Colonel, Commanding. APRIL 19, 1863.Skirmish at Creelsborough, Ky. REPORTS. No. 1.Brig. Gen. Horatio G. Wright, U. S. Army. No. 2.Lieut. Col. William E. Riley, Eleventh Kentucky Cavalry. No. 1. Report of Brig. Gen. Horatio C. Wright, U. S. Army. LOUISVILLE, Ks., April 20, 186310.30 p. m. GENER4L: General Manson telegraphs that Colonel Riley, Eleventh Kentucky, who was sent in direction of Creelsborough, attacked rebels at that place yesterday; killed 1, captured 16, and when last heard from was in hot pursuit of another party. No casualties on our side. No answer yet from Colonel Jacob relative to orders sent him this morn- ing, and fear it may not be received here to-night; the distance by courier is 28 miles. H. G. WRIGHT, Brigadier. General. Maj. Gen. AMBROSE E. BURNSIDE Page 265 ChAP. XXX~r.] SRIkMISII AT CREflLSBORQtTGII, KY. 265 No. 2. Report of Lieut. Got. William E. Riley, Eleventh Kentucky Gavatry. BURKESYILLE, April 19, 1863. SIR: In pursuance of orders received from Major General Wright, at 12 m. on the 17th instant, ordering me to move the Eleventh Kentucky Cavalry to this place (as soon as I could procure the rations required), I proceeded on the march with 150 men, as many men of my command as are equipped with arms at all serviceable, and encamped first night 12 miles out from Lebanon, on the Campbellsville pike, near Mrs. Saun- ders residence. About daylight next morning we proceeded on the march to Columbia, which place we reached about 4 p. m. Here I found orders from Colonel Jacob, of the Ninth Kentucky Cavalry, com- municating orders of Major-General Wright to me to move my com- mand to Creelsborough, and ascertain the force of the enemy at that point, and to come to this place. I found a sqnad of 55 men, of the Twelfth Kentucky Cavalry, under Lieutenant Lippincott, who were ordered to report to me at Columbia. In pursuance of these orders, I left 50 men to guard the wagon trains of the Ninth, Eleventh, and Twelfth, at Columbia, and proceeded at daylight on the march to Creelsborough, with 129 men of the Eleventh Kentucky and 30 of the Twelfth Kentucky Cavalry. On arriving on a train leading into Griders Creek, back of Mr. Griders house, about 1 mile from Creelsborough, I called a halt, and detailed Lieutenants De- baun and Norton, of Company C, with 17 men, Lieutenants Purdy and Willemin, of Company G, with 16 men, and Lieutenants Taylor and Niemeyer, of Company II, with 10 men, total 43 men, all of the Elev- enth Kentucky Cavalry, under the command of Capt. Jacob Cozatt, of Company C, and dispatched them, on double-quick, on the road over the hill to Creclsborough. The balance of the command, consisting of a detachment of Company A, 25 men, under Capt. J. G. Pond; also a (letachment of Company B, 16 men, under Lieutenant Burgess; also a detachment of Company F, under Lieutenant Dickerson, numbering 24 men; also a detachment of Company B, numbering 13 men, under Lieutenants Robinson and Burton; a detachment of Company I, num- bering 6 men, under Lieutenant String, and a detachment of Company [II], of the Twelfth Kentucky Cavalry, under Lieutenant Lippincott, numbering 30 men, making in all 106 men. I moved with this detach- ment of my command down the said creek to the crossing of the road from Creelsborough up to the ferry, and thence down this road to Creels- borough. As we were ascending the hill into Creelsborough, on & ouble-quick, the rebel pickets fired on Captain Cozatts detachment. This firing was the first notice the rebels, who were in the town and rifling a store, had of our approach. There were from 60 to 70 rebels in and around the town. We were met on the brow of the hill by about 25 rebels~ mounted and in arms, who rode up within 50 feet of us before they saw us or we them. The firing commenced instantly, and this firing was kept up for several minutes, when the rebels turned and fled down the road through Creelsborough. We pursued rapidly. In pass- ing through the town we were fired upon from nearly every house and place of concealment. We, however, pressed the retreating [rebels] through the town, and I found here that both detachments of the com- mand had gotten together, and were engaged in pursuing this detach Page 266 266 KY., MID. AND E. TENN., N. ALA., AND SW. VA. [CHAP. XXXv. ment of rebels in hot haste. I rode into about the center, and halted the rear and reversed its front, and marched back into the town, leaving the right wing to pursue. I ordered every house and stable and hiding place in the town to be searched, which was soon done. The rebels had scattered in every direction. Some had fied to the hills and bushes; others hid under houses and in the lofts, & c. We only left one rebel on the streets of Creelsborough to die, but left him in the care of our most excellent surgeon, Dr. [J. H.] Peyton. We took 12 prisoners, one of whom was wounded, and one of whom was E. M. Allen, captain in the Confederate Army. Our men escaped without a scratch. The surprise of the enemy was perfect. We arrived at Creelsborough about 11 oclock, and left there about 1 oclock for Burkesville, where we arrived at %3p. in., when we reported, according to our orders from General Manson, to Colonel Jacob, for duty, thus making a march of about 42 miles, over as bad roads as there are in the mountains of Kentucky, and spent two hours of the day in a brisk little skirmish with the enemy, and in pursuing, retreating, and search- ing for skulking rebels. We captured 12 horses and equipments, and several guns and pistols, a full report of which I have not received. I feel that I cannot speak in too high terms of the conduct of the officers and men of this command. Some may have distinguished them. selves more than others for their gallantry and exertions on the field, yet all b%haved with so much bravery, gallantry, and ambition for vic- tory, as to show that all the officers and men of the Eleventh Kentucky Cavalry need, to enable them to meet any foe, is for the men to be prop. erly armed and equipped. They only had fifty-three guns on this oc- casion, and we find, from this engagement, that the Savage pistol, with which they are armed, is worthless. Lieut. W. P. Pierce, adjutant Eleventh Kentucky Cavalry; Second Lieut. W. H Korton, Company C; Sergt. Maj. Elwood Livzy; Sergt. Dudley Aiken; Private Thomas Zeddon, of Company A; Corporals W. A. Vandivier and W. A. Rose, of Company C; W. T. Arnold, of Company B, and perhaps others, whose conduct has not been reported to me, especially distinguished themselves for the eagerness with which they pursued the retreating rebels, having gone far in advance of the head of our column in the pursuit. - Very respectfully, your most obedient servant, W. E. RILEY, Lieutenant-Colonel, Commanding Eleventh Kentucky Cavalry. Lieut. F. H. POPE, Acting Assistant Adjutant-General. APRIL 2030, 1863.Expedition from Murfreesborough to Mcl~finnville, Tenn. REPORTS. No. 1.Maj. Gen. Joseph 3. Reynolds, U. S. Army, commanding expedition. No. 2.Ce]. Robert H. G. Minty, Fourth Michigan Cavalry, commanding detachment Cavalry Division, Department of the Cumberland. No. 3.Lieut. Col. Josiah B. Park, Fourth Michigan Cavalry, commanding First Cavalry Brigade Page 267 CILLP. XXXVI EXPEDITION TO M MINNYILLE, TENN. 267 No. 4.Col. Eli Long, Fourth Ohio Cavalry, commanding Second Cavalry Brigade. No. 5.Capt. Elmer Otis, Fourth U. S. Cavalry. No. 6.Brig. Gen. William T. Martin, C. S. Army. Ko. 1. Report of Maj. Gen. Joseph J. Reynolds, U. S. Army, commanding expe dition. HDQRS. FIFTH DIVISION, FOURTEENTH ARMY CORPS, Murfreesborough, Teun., April 30, 1863. COLONEL: The troops employed in the recent expedition to MeMiun- yule, & c., returned to.day, and a report will be most readily compre- hended by reference to the operatious of each day. The expedition consisted of the following force: Colonel Wilders brigade (three regiments mounted infantry), about 1, 100 Colonel Halls brigade, about 1,400 Brigadier-General Wagners brigade, about - 1,300 Colonel Starkweathers brigade, about 1,300 Cavalry, under Colonel Minty, about 1,500 ln all, about 6,600 April 20, the whole command made Readyville. At dark a mounted scout was sent to Woodbury, which returned before midnight. This scout was reported at MeMinuville, and deceived the enemy as to the movement of the next day. April 21, the advance, a cavalry force of about 350, under Col. Eli Long, Fourth Ohio Cavalry, destined to strike the railroad from Man- chester to McMintiville, took the road at 2 a. in., and, turning to the southeast just after leaving Woodbury, directed their march upon Mor- rison, under the guidance of Captain Fleming, late of Stokes (Ten- nessee) cavalry. The remainder of the mounted force (cavalry) under Colonel Minty, and mounted infantry, the whole under Colonel Wilder, promptly followed, and beyond Woodbury took the old McMinnville road, which passes between Jacksborough and the McMinnville pike. The advance of this force captured a portion of a picket belonging to a regiment of the enemy stationed on the pike. Those that escaped re- ported that the main mounted column was a flanking party. The force that moved for the railroad, under Colonel Long, appears not to have been discovered at all until they were near the road and in a condition to accomplish their work beyond doubt. The supporting infantry force closely followed the mounted column, and, after the mounted force left the direct pike to McMinnville, the infantry support was apparently the only force moving toward that place. Soon after leaving Woodbury we discovered the mounted regiment of the enemy, which was known to be on the road, and which gradually retired before us, evidently not aware of the fact that our mounted cob umn had passed them and was nearing McMinnville. We abstained from firing on this regiment, and moved cautiously, but firmly, upon it, until we reached Glascocks, 9 miles from McMinnville, the point at which we were to await advices from Wilder. This point was made by 12.30 p. in., having marched 19 miles. About 4 p.m. I received a communication from Wilder, who had taken possession of McMinnville at 1.30 p. m. with his advance of the Seventh Pennsylvania Cavalry and mounted infantry scouts at a charge, sup Page 268 ~68 KY., MID. AND E. TENN., N. ALA., AND SW. VA. (CHAP. XXXV. ported by the Fourth Regular Cavalry. The surprise was complete. Among the prisoners captured here was the notorious Dick McCann, who subsequently made his escape from a guard of the Fourth Regular Cavalry, which occurrence will be investigated and. reported upou at an early day. General John H. Morgan came very near being captured, but escaped by having a fresh, fleet horse, and being personally unknown to the men of our advance. The infantry force moved northward, and encamped on a branch of Charleys Creek, about 3 miles from the pike. The force at McMinn- yule passed the night of the 21st at and near the town, and that nuder Colonel Long about 6 miles out. April 22, the mounted force moved to Beckwiths via Smithville; biv- ouacked near the former place. The infantry moved to within 5 miles of Beckwiths, and encamped at Pine Flats, on a branch of Clear Fork. The entire country passed over this day by both commands is barren and unproductive. The animals were very scantily supplied with for. age, and the provisions for the mounted men, which had been left with the infantry support at Readyville, were pushed on during the night of the 22d to Beckwiths, escorted by a portion of Halls brigade. April 23, the remainder of Halls brigade started at 2 a. in.; joined the mounted force at Beckwiths by dawn of day, and, with this brigade as a support, Wilder pushed right on toward Liberty, closely followed by the brigades of Wagner and Starkweather. On reaching Snow Hill, about 10 a. in., where rebels had been reported in force, we found the position abandoned, and learned that the enemy had retreated via Alex- andria and Lancaster.. Men and animals were much jaded, and a vigor- ous pursuit was simply impossible. The force from Carthage, that we hoped would co-operate with us by taking position at or near the vicinity of Alexandria, to prevent this very retreat of the enemy, had not arrived. Two regiments from Carthage arrived at Alexandria about midnight of the 23d, and reported to me on the 24th. They were too late by at least thirty-six hours to co-operate with us, and the force sent was less than half that necessary to an effective co-operation. The mounted force was distributed from the fork of the road 2~ miles from Liberty to a point 3 miles beyond Alexandria toward Lebanon, with instructions to forage and rest. Wagners brigade was placed at Liberty, and Halls and Starkweathers at the fork of the road communicating with the pro. vision train near Auburn. April 24, spent the day in foraging and picking up straggling rebels. Provisions, escorted by General H. S. Grangers brigade, arrived and were distributed. At night sent reconnaissance of the Fourth Regular Cavalry, under Captain Mcintyre; went as far as Smithville and found no enemy. - April 25, headquarters and Halls brigade moved to Cherry Valley, Wilders mounted infantry to Shop Spring, and Wagners brigade to Alexandria. Starkweathers brigade remained at the forks of the roads. The cavalry, excepting Rays (about 350), started for Murfreesborough, a portion, with Grangers brigade, via Auburn, and the main body via Cherry Valley, Cainsville, and Milton. April 26, Wilders mounted infantry, Halls brigade, and headquar- ters ma(le Lebanon, Tenn. April 27, mounted infantry scouring the country in the direction of Rome, Gallatin, and Silver Spring; expecting to be absent two days; discovered two boats in the creek near Rome. At 5 p. in. I received in- formation from Colonel Starkweather, through General Wagner, that the enemy was certainly advancing in force toward Liberty, with th Page 269 CHAP. XXXV.] EXPEDITION TO M MINNYILLE, TENN. 269 intention of attacking Starkweather at the forks of the road. I or- dered Halls brigade on the road at once, and sent messengers to order the mounted regiments to follow as early as possible next morning (28th). Hall and headquarters reached Alexandria at 10.15 a. m. on the 28th, and communicated with Wagner and Starkweather. (The former had moved near the forks.) April 28, a train of 53 empty wagons reached Starkweathers camp7 under escort of the Ninth Michigan, Colonel Parkhurst. This train was loaded with bacon and forage, a portion belonging to refugees, the remainder captured from prominent rebels and turned over to the proper staff officers at corps headquarters on the arrival of the train at Murfreesborongh on the 30th. April 29, headquarters and Halls brigade moved from Alexandria to Stones River, via Statesville and Cainsville; Wagner and Starkweather encamped near Milton; Wilder, with two regiments of mounted in- fantry, moved through Lebanon to Bairds Mills, one regment coming through Murfreesborough with the headquarters. DESTROYED OR DJSAI3LED. The railroad leading from McMinnville to Manchester may be said to be destroyed; all the bridges of any note, as well as trestle-work, are burned; also one locomotive and train of three cars, and various other detached cars at stations; depot buildingsatMcMinnville; 609 blankets; 2 hogsheads of sugar; 3 hogsheads of rice; 200 bales of cotton; 8 bar- rels of whisky; 30,000 pounds of bacon; 1 cotton factory (large); 2 mills; 1 camp, tents, & c., on Charleys Creek; 1 camp at Liberty, and 1 mill at Liberty; 180 prisoners captured at various places from Morri- son to Stones River, including 5 commissioned officers; one who repre- sents himself as a major on the staff of General J. C. Breckinridge was captured on the 29th by Wilders scouts near Glades. Lieutenant- Colonel [R. M.] Martin was mortally wounded by a saber in the hand of a member of the Seventh Pennsylvania Cavalry. Six hundred and thirteen animals were captured, and seventy-six abandoned. Large quantities of forage and wheat were discovered. The only casualties to our force were 1 man of the Seventeenth In- diana badly and treacherously wounded; he got into camp; and 1 man of the One hundred and twenty-third Illinois died of disease. The district bounded south by the road from Readyville to McMinn- ville, east by the road from McMinnville to Smithville, and west and north by a line drawn from Readyville, via Auburn, Liberty, Alexan- dria, and New Middleton, to Caney Fork, is sterile and unproductive, excepting a small area about New Middleton. The same remark will apply to the district between Woodbury and the railroad connecting McMinnvill~ with Manchester. There is no forage and but little subsistence of any kind in the coun try named above. An army cannot subsist in it, and hence the rebels have been driven to occupy the country to the west of Alexandria, and lying between the Cumberland and Stones Rivers. The last-named dis- trict is, with occasional exceptions, very productive, well watered, and nuder a high state of cultivation. The rebels have drawn immense quantities of supplies from this portion of country. A force at Alexan- dria or Liberty would command this whole district. The inhabitants may ne divided into three classes: First, the wealthy; second, those of medium means or well-to-do; and, third, the poor. The first class are, with a few noble exceptions, decided rebels, their farms havin Page 270 270 KY., MID. AND E. TENN., N. ALA., AND SW. VA. ECHAP. XXXV. furnished rebel supplies, and their houses have been made stopping places for rebel commanders, conscript agents, spies, & c. Without the aid furnished by these men, the raids upon the railroad from Murfrees. borough to Nashville, and from INashville to Gallatin, and even beyond, could not be made. With the supplies furnished by these quiet citizens, the rebels are enabled to move almost without transportation or pro. visions, knowing just where forage and subsistence await them. The tone of this class in February, when we made our first expedition into that part of the country, was quite defiant; they were determined to persevere in their rebellion until they secured their rights. They have since that time lost no little property in forage and animals to supply both armies, and, in addition, their negro men have run away, and the wagons that were driven, about February 1, by soldiers de- tailed for that purpose were, about the last of April, just as well driven by the negroes that formerly lived in that section of country, and the strength of the companies was increased by the same number of able. bodied soldiers. The tone of this class is now changed. They have discovered their mistake. They had been misled. They have found their rights, and they are now anxious to take the non-combatant oath, give bonds, and stay at home. The question arises here, Shall they be allowed to do so? At the risk of being officious, I respectfully answer, no. If the leading men of the neighborhoods are allowed to remain, although they may give bonds, when the rebels run into their neighborhoods they will be forced to aid them. If they are sent away, their presence and their in- fluence are gone. A few of this class returned with us, a step prelimi. nary, I trust, to a longer journey. The second class have generally been well-meaning citizens, but with- out much influence politically; they have become from wavering men loyal citizens; are desirous of taking the oath, and pursuing their ordi- nary avocations. Many oC them have sons conscripted into the rebel service, who would desert that service and return home if their fathers were placed in a better position politically and their oppressors sent away, so that there would be no one to return them to a service which they detest. This class is deserving of the fostering care of the Gov- ernment. The third class are all loyal; they have no weight in the community; possess but little property; they have, in fact, been subjugated all their lives. By encouragement they must improve. They have suffered greatly from the rebel conscription. The absence of the first class is a thing greatly desired by them, but4hey speak it only in whispers. They have at least one thing in their favortheir devotion to the flag of their country is unwavering in both men and women. There was one idea that evidently occupied the minds of all classes. We were everywhere met with the questions, Will the Federal Army remain in Middle Tennessee? Will it go forward and leave us, or will it go back and leave us? There is a feeling of insecurity which can be eradicated only by adopting such measures as will convince the loyal people that this country is to be possessed only by loyal men, and that when our lines are advanced they are advanced forever; that no retrograde step will be taken, and that whatever may be necessary to loyalize a district of country will be done before the army leaves it. J. J. REYNOLDS, 1lIajor. General, Gommanding Eci~peditioz. Lient. Col. GEORGE E. FLYNT, Chief of & aff, Fourteenth Army Corp8 Page 271 Cit& p, XXXV.] EXPEDITION TO MMINNYILLE, TENK. 271 (Thdorsemeut.] HEADQUARTERS FOURTEENTH ARMY CORPS, DEPARTMENT OF THE CUMBERLAND, Murfreesborough, Tenn., May 4, 1863. Respectfully forwarded. In organizing the expedition my arrangement was that the force from Carthage should arrive at Alexandria on the 21st, if not before, and to remain there, threatening and attracting the attention of the enemy, until the morning of the 24th, unless the commanding officer heard firing in the direction of Liberty, in which event he was to move at once on Liberty, to the support of our troops. He was to have marched on Liberty in any event on the 20th, as the programme required that General Reynolds should make that place on that day. It is to be regretted that that portion of the expedition was not in position at the time appointed, and there is no doubt the expedition, although eminently successful, would have been more fruitful in results. I take great pleasure in commending to the general commanding the remarks of General Reynolds on the status of the three classes of citi- zens now inhabiting Tennessee as just and appreciative, and fully indorse his recommendations as to what should be our policy toward them. If those who have heretofore been active rebels were invariably put beyond our lines, we should then be able to penetrate and occupy the insurgent territory with much more certainty, as we would not then be under the necessity of keeping up such strong guards in our rear to secure our lines of communication. GEO. H. THOMAS, Major-General of U. S. Volunteers, Commanding. I~To.2. Report of Cot. Robert II. G. Minty, Fourth Michigan Cavalry, command ing detachment Cavalry Division, Department of the Cumberland. HEADQUARTERS FIRST CAVALRY BRIGADE, Camp near Murfreesborough, Tenn., April 26, 1863. SIR: On the 19th instant, under orders received from Brigadier-Gen- eral Garfield, I reported to Major-General Reynolds, commanding the Fifth Division, Fourteenth Army Corps, and, in accordance with his orders, marched for Readyville at ip. m. on the 20th instant, with 1,708 men, composed of parts of the First, Second, and Third Cavalry Bri- gades and the Fourth U. S. Cavalry, with six days rations. I en- camped between Readyville and Woodbnry for the night. April 21, I. sent Colonel Long, with the Second Brigade (418 men), at 2 a. in., with instructions to take the road leading through Jacksbor- ough, to strike the railroad at or near Morrison as soon after 10.30 a. m. as possible, and to destroy the trestle-work at that place. Although the Manchester train escaped, the work was well done. For particu- lars, I beg to refer you to Colonel Longs report, inclosed herewith. At 3 a. m. I marched for McMinnvilLe with the rest of my command, taking the old McMinnville road, and was followed by Colonel Wilder, with his brigade of mounted infantry. When about 2 miles from Mc- Minuvile, I detached the Fourth Michigan and one company of th Page 272 272 KY., MID. AND E. TENN., N. ALA., AND SW. VA. [CILKr. XXXV. First Middle Tennessee, with two of Colonel Wilders mountain how. itzers, to move in on the Smithyille road. About half a mile farther on, my advance came on the rebel pickets, who immediately formed and opened fire on us. Riding to the front, I pushed forward the flankers, and directed the advance guard to charge home, sending Cap. tam Jennings, with the remainder of his regiment (Seventh Peunsyl. vania Cavalry), to their support. The rebels were driven into and through the town. Their entire force was about 700 men600 cavalry and the provost guard, which consisted of 115 men of the Second Ken. tucky and Forty-first Alabama Infantry Regiments. These last had left town, by the Chattanooga road, with the wagon train, about an hour before our arrival, but, by pressing closely, a part of the Seventh Penn- sylvania Cavalry succeeded in capturing 3 wagons and 8 or 9 of the men. Tue cavalry scattered iu every direction, part of them retreating at a gallop on every road, about 50 taking the railroad train, which started as we entered the town. I sent the Third Brigade and the Fourth Michigan after the train, with directions to destroy it and also the. new bridge over Hickory Creek. The Fourth Regulars I sent to the sup. port of the Seventh Pennsylvania, on the Sparta and Chattanooga roads. In the charge made by the advanced guardLieutenant Thompson and 25 men of the Seventh Pennsylvana CavalryCorporal [Edward II.] Schutt mortally wounded Lieutenant-Colonel [R. M.] Martin, of Johnsons Kentucky Cavalry, having laid his skull open by a saber cut. The famous Maj. Dick McCann was also wounded and taken prisoner, but effected his escape the same night from a guard of the Fonrth Reg- ulars. I encamped for the night on the hill ~vest of McMinnville, and was early next morning rejoined by the Second and Third Brigades and the Fonrth Michigan. April 22, encamped near Snow Hill about dark, and pushed forward a patrol, which discovered strong pickets of the enemy at the mouth of iDry Creek. April 23, marched at daylight for Liberty. The rebel pickets had been withdrawn daring the night. The citizens stated that the enemy had promised to give us battle at Liberty. At Liberty they promised to fight at the junction of the Auburn and Alexandria pikes, and at the junction they said they would meet us at Alexandria, but at that place I found only 4 men, and those I captured. Wheeler and Wharton, with [Thomas] Harrisons, [C. C.] Crews, and Dukes brigades, retreated toward Lancaster at daybreak. I encamped 3 miles west of Alexandria until the morning of the 25th, when I marched for Murfreesborough, via Cainsville and Las Casas. I encamped near Cainsville the night of the 25th, and arrived at Mur. freesborough at 3 p. m. on the 26th. I sent or brought in 130 prisoners, all of whom, except 7, were captured by the cavalry. We destroyed the trestle-work on the railroad below Morrison; burned the railroad buildings, one locomotive, and two cars at Morrison; burned the nex~ bridge across Hickory Creek, and destroyed a large quantity of bacon and other commissary stores at that place, and recaptured 15 men of the Second East and First Middle Tennessee Cavalry, who had been taken prisoners at Carthage on the 18th instant. I also captured 30 horses, 12 mules, and 3 wagons. In McMinnville Colonel Wilder destroyed a large amount of property. I had no casualties whatever during the expedition. Inclosed I hand you reports of the officers commanding the Fourth U. S. Cavalry and Page 273 CHAP. XXXV.I EXPEDITION TO M MINNVILLE, TENN. 273 the First and Second Brigades. I have not yet received the report of Colonel Ray, commanding the Third Brigade. I am, respectfully, your obedient servant, ROBT. II. G. MINTY, Colonel, Commanding. Lieut. Col. C. GODDARD, Asst. Adjt. Gen., Department of the Cumberland. No. 3. Report of Lieut. Col. Josiah B. Park, Fourth ]Jlichigan Cavalry, com manding First Cavalry Brigade. HEADQUARTERS FOURTH MICHIGAN CAVALRY, Camp near Murfreesborough, Ienn., April 27, 1863. SIR: I have the honor to report that, in obedience to orders, I as- sumed command of the First Cavalry Brigade on the 20th instant at 1 p. in., and moved out from camp on the Woodbury pike. The brigade consisted of detachments of the First Middle Tennessee Cavalry, Lieu- tenant-Colonel Gaibraith commanding; Fourth Michigan Cavalry, Maj. F. W. Mix commanding; Seventh Pennsylvania Cavalry, Capt. W. H. Jennings commanding, and one section of the First Ohio Artillery, Bat- tery D, Lieutenant Newell. I proceeded thence to iReadyville and went into camp for the night. April 21, at 3 a in., I moved out the brigade in the direction of Mc- Minuville, via Jacksborough, having previously detached one company of the First Middle Tennessee to report to Colonel Long at 2a.m., in accordance with your orders. When within 2 miles from McMinnville I was ordered to take the Fourth Michigan and the remaining company of the First Middle Tennessee, with two pieces of Colonel Wilders mountain howitzers, and l)roceed, by a path or narrow road to the left, through the woods, and approach McMinnville on the Smithville road, for the purpose of cutting off all straggleis from the enemy in that direction. I reached McMinnville after the advance of the column of cavalry had charged through the village. Having no orders to proceed farther, and hearing that a force of 200 of the enemy was engaging a much inferior force in numbers of my own command near the railroad bridge, 2 miles on the line of the railroad toward Morrison, I proceeded thence on a gallop, and found that two squadrons of the Seventh Pennsylvanis had arrived at the bridge just a moment before, and just after the de I)arture of the train for Manchester. The detachment of the Seventh Pennsylvania had already taken the guard stationed at the bridge I)risoners and recaptured 15 of our own men, who were there awaiting transportation to Tullahoma. I directed Lieutenant-Colonel Galbraith, with his command, and Lieu- tenant Mackey, of the Fourth Michigan, to move across the cieek and a short distance down the road. They soon returned, having found near the railroad a quantity of commissary stores, mostly bacon. Lieu- tenant Mackey brought in also 8 prisoners. We here captured ~ wagons, about 8,000 pounds of bacon, 6 Enfleld rifles, 1 chest of carpenters tools, 5 bell and 4 wall tents, and some other camp and garrison equi- page, all of which I ordered to be burned, with the exception of one wagon, which was serviceable, and with which I was able to trans- 18 R RYOL XXIII7 PT Page 274 274 KY., MIDa AND E. TENN., N. ALA., AND SW. VA. (CHAP. XXXV. port two wall tents and the chest of tools. Colonel Ray coming np with orders to proceed to Morrison to ascertain if the train had been destroyed at that point, and desiring my assistance, I left that part of my command most fatigued at the bridge, and proceeded to Morrison, a distance of 10 miles, leaving Captain Pritchard in command at the bridge, with orders to burn it. Before reaching Morrison, I detached Captain Tolton, with one battalion of the Fonrth Michigan, to the right and along the line of the railroad, to scour the woods. He reported to me at Morrison with 7 prisoners, 2 of whom were of the ranks of cap. tam and commissary of subsistence on the staff of Generals Wheeler and Morgan, respectively. I then returned to the bridge, and, having dispatched two messengers for orders, I bivouacked. I must here mention that in the approach to McMinnville two com- panies of the Seventh Pennsylvania were acting as an advance guard to the column, and in the charge through the town Corpl. John Williams, of Company F, caught sight of the notorious Maj~ Dick McCann, who coolly remarked to him, Come on, you Yankee son of a bh! At this the corporal spurred his horse with renewed vigor, and, overtaking him, unhorsed him by a severe stroke with the saber across the head. I have made some inquiries in regard to this young corporal, and find that he is a worthy young man and a good soldier. Such gallant con- duct is deserving of great praise, and I respectfully recommend him to the commanding officer of that regiment for promotion. On the morning of the 22d, I rejoined the command at McMinnville. April 23, I approached Alexandria, my brigade being in the advance. After we reached the village, I directed Lieutenant-Colonel Galbraith, with his command, to move ont to a piece of woods in front of the vil- lage, where he captured 2 prisoners. Nothing farther of importance occurred in my command during the march. This brigade captured in all 82 prisoners, as near as I can learn from the reports of regimental commanders. I have no casualties. I am, respectfully, your obedient servant, J. B. PARK, Lieutenant-Colonel, Commanding Fir8t Cavalry Brigade. Col. R. H. G. MINTY, Commanding Cavalry. No. 4. Report of 6~ol. liii Long, Fourth Ohio Cavalry, commanding Second (lay airy Brigade. HEADQUARTERS FOTJRTI1 Onxo VOLUNTEER CAVApRY, Camp Stanley, near Miurfreesborough, Tenn., April 27, 1863. SIR: Pursuant to instructions, I have the honor to report that the Second Cavalry Brigade, under my command, left this point on the 20th instant, arriving at Readyville that night. On that night I re- ceived verbal orders from Colonel Minty to start the next morning at 2 oclock with my brigade, and, in addition thereto, 100 men of the Sec- ond Kentucky Cavalry and one company of the First Middle Tennessee Cavalry, and to strike the Manchester and McMinnville Railroad at the big trestle-work just west of Morrison Station, and allow the train of cars from Manchester to pass on toward McMinnville, and to destroy the track in its rear. I started~ with the above force, a few minnte Page 275 CHAP. XXXV.] EXPEDITION TO MMINNYILLE, TENN. 276 after 2 a. in., and arrived in the vicinity of the railroad about 10 a. in., having in the mean time met a scouting party of rebels and several stragglers, of which the company of the First Tennessee. under Lieu- tenant Couch, captured 5; but some of this scouting party, and also some stragglers of the enemy, having escaped, I deemed it best to vary from my instructions and strike the railroad farther west, think- ing that they would have warning of our approach at Morrison, and that the train would be stopped before it got there. I accordingly went down the road, but out of sight through the woods, until I arrived within a mile of Lick Spittle. Leaving my command in the woods, I took 5 or 6 men, with axes, and went within 200 yards of the road, on foot, ready to tear up the track as soon as the train passed. While in this position, the trains whistle was heard within about a mile of us. We remained in this position a sufficient length of time for it to come along, but it failing to do so, I then made another detour around the place (Lick Spittle), striking the road just west of it as quickly as we could, but the train had gone back to Manchester. I then went up the road toward McMinnville; destroyed one bridge at this point, 7 miles from Manchester, and all the others between there and Morrison, except one or two small ones that would have been too difficult, and consumed too much time to burn. At Morrison I burned one locomotive and three cars that had been run out from McMinnville, and also the railroad depot at this place. I encamped that night at Mr. Snellings, some 2~ miles northeast of Morri- son, and joined the rest of the cavalry at McMiiinville early the next morning, since which time nothing requiring special report from me has occurred. My command marched fully 45 miles on this day (21st instant). On arriving in the vicinity of the big trestle near Morrison, I sent word to the commanding officer of the Second Kentucky Cavalry, through my adjutant, that he was relieved from my command, and free to go where- ever he had been ordered. The officer in command, Captain [0.3 Star, then came to me and said that Captain [J. D.j Wickliffe, the officer who started out in command, and who had special instructions from the commanding general, was sick; that the men had only two days ra- tions; that their horses were very tired (which was the case, they having come at good speed for 6 or 8 miles that day), and that he, Captain Star, did not think the expedition could be carried out. I gave him to understand that he was at perfect liberty to do as he chose, but I advised him to keep along with me, for I thought, and still think, that the expedition would have been a failure in the then disturbed state of the country. Captain Wickliffe had fallen from his horse before getting to the road. Some letters having fallen out of his pocket, and hav- ing caught the attention of my provost-marshal, he brought them to me. They were addressed to persons within the Confederate lines. Iu the hurry of the moment. I directed the provost-marshal to take charge of him until further orders. When I found that these were letters given Captain Wickliffe by persons in Kentucky,. to be sent by him to the Confederate lines, under flag of truce, I released him from arrest, but turned the letters over to Colonel Minty. I am, sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant, ELI LONG, Colonel, Commanding Second Cavalry Brigade. ASSISTANT ADJUTANT-GENERAL, Eirst Cavalry Brigade Page 276 276 KY., MID. AND E. TENN., N. ALA., AND SW. VA. [CHAP. XXXV. No. 5. Report of Capt. Elmer Otis, Fourth U. S. Cavalry. HEADQUARTERS FOURTH U. S. CAVALRY, April 27, 1863. COLONEL: I have the honor to report that I left camp with my regi- ment on April 20, at 12.30 p. in., in obedience to General Orders, No. 38, Headquarters Chief of Cavalry. The regiment formed on the Wood- bury pike, and, after marching 14 miles, encamped 2 miles from Ready- yule. On the 21st, we reached MeMinuville. Captain McIntyre, with Companies B, G, K, and M, charged through the town, pursuing the retreating rebels on the Sparta road. Captain McCormick, with Company A, took up a position to the left of the road leading fo Chattanooga. With the remainder of the regi.ment I took up a posi- tion on the Chattanooga road 2~ miles from town, which I held until or(lered to fall back at night. On the 22d, we marched to Smithville without meeting the enemy. On the 23d, we passed Snow Hill and Liberty, encamping near Alex- andria. On the 24th, the regiment was ordered back to Smithville, near which place it encamped, without having met the enemy. On the 25th, we passed through Liberty, encamping 6 miles from the town, on the Murfreesborough road. On the 26th, we reached camp at Murfreesborough, having lost dur- ing the scout 47 horses, owing to great scarcity of forage and their thin condition when starting. There were captured 6 prisoners, 12 horses, and 3 mules. There are no casualties of killed, wounded, or taken prisoners. I am, colonel, very respectfully, your obedient servant, ELMER OTIS, Captain Fourth Cavalry, Commanding. Col. R. H. G. MINTY, Commanding Expedition. No. 6. Reportsof Brig. Gen. William I. Martin, C. S. Army. IIDQRS. MARTINS CAVALRY DIV., WHEELERS CORPS, April 22, 1863. MAJOR: At 10.30 a. m. yesterday the enemy advanced to the front of our vedettes on the Middleton road and this pike with infantry, artillery, and cavalry, approaching almost in musket range. Their cavalry was deployed as skirmishers. A continuous line of skirmishers was extended fi-om near the railroad across the country beyond Middleton. I attacked these skirmishers on both roads, but found the force too great for me. After maintaining their line for some six hours,the forces retired. One brigade, with wagons and ambulances, was on each road. Lieutenant- Colonel [H.] Thompson reports that the enemy was advancing on Man- chester pike yesterday in force, and 1,500 cavalry on the Woodbury and Manchester road. I have not yet heard whether these detachments have retired. If I had had proper artillery yesterday I could have use Page 277 CHAP. XXXV.] EXPEDITION TO M MINNVILLE, TENN. 277 it to advantage. In this immediate vicinity I believe the enemy was plundering, and so the scouts report. Very respectfully, WILL. T. MARTIN, Brigadier-General, Commanding. Maj. D. G. REED, Assistant Adjutant-General. HDQRS. MARTINS CAVALRY Div., WHEELERS CORPS, April 27, 1863. MAJOR: I have learned this morning the return of General [Joseph] Wheeler to MeMiunville, and would report the facts of the late move- ment of the enemy through the lines as far as they have come to my knowledge. Lieutenant-Colonel [R.] Thompson reports that the enemy passed through the lines on the 21st instant, to the right of my last picket in that direction, but was observed and fired upon; that the force was 1,500 cavalry, and came down the Woodbury road until at Daniels Chapel it struck the Petty Gap road, and not far from this point encoun- tered our patrol& and those of Colonel [B. W.] Duke, who is on my right, and passed through the 3~ miles from my farthest picket on the right. The advance was reported to me and General [St. J. B.] Liddell at Wartrace, who immediately sent a dispatch to General [W. J.] Hardee. At the same time that I received notice of this column I also received a dispatch from Adjutant [Kinloch] Falconer, advising me i~hat General [B. II.] Helm had been ordered up from Manchester to check the ad- vance. Simultaneously with this movement the enemy advanced ou the 21st upon Beech Grove through ~ Gap, upon Thompsons battalion, and for nearly twenty-four hours Lieutenant-Colonel Thompson, with all his available force of [Z.] Thomasons battalion and the Third Georgia, was skirmishing with the enemy, estimated to have four or five regi- ments of infantry and a small force of cavalry, and known to have had a battery of artillery, which was freely used. Lieutenant-Colonel Thomp- son made disposition of his force to guard against the column on his right, which he supposed was endeavoring to get in rear of him. The enemy retired from his front about noon of the 22d instant. On this pike and on the Middleton road on the 21st the enemy ad- vanced, and had on each road a brigade of infantry, with cavalry and artillery, and threatened an attack upon my pickets. On the 22d, in larger force, another advance was made on each road. The full force of my command on each road was on both occasions moved to the front, and some unimportant skirmishing ensued. I was in front both days, and did not make a serious attack, as the force of the enemy was too great to render a forward movement prudent. The line of Lieutenant-Colonel Thompson was established in accord- ance with the written directions received from General Wheeler, and dated March 31,1863. It is, of course, impossible with the force in front of Pocahontas to prevent a recurrence of such attacks, and there was no force that could by any diligence have been brought to bear from my liu.e upon the column which passed by the Petty Gap road. The coun- try is all open in that section, and troops can move in any direction. Very respectfully, WILL. T. MARTIN, - Brigadier- General, Commanding Division. Maj. B. S. BURFORD, Asst. Adjt. Gen., MeMinnville Page 278 278 ~KY., MID. AND E. TENN., N. ALA., AND SW. VA (CHAP. Xxxv. APRIL , 1863.Skirmish near Creek Head, Ky. Report of Brig. Gen. Orlando B. Willeox, U. S. Army. LEXINGTON, Ky., April 24, 186312.15 p. m. GENERAL: The gallant Captain [I.] Stough has had another skirmish with the rebels. Attacked them below Creek Head. Killed 4 men and 3 horses, and captured 9 prisoners and 5 horses. No loss on our side. Enemy retreated across the Cumberland. Citizens furnish supplies; are very anxious for us to clean out Whitley County before the enemy steal everything. 0.B. WILLCOX, General AMBROSE E. BURNSmE. Brigadier-General. APRIL 26, 1863.Affair near College Grove, Tenn. Report of Brig. Gen. John M. Schofield, U. S. Army, commanding Third Division, Fourteenth Army Corps. TRIUNE, April 26, 18639.30 p. m. GENERAL: A small scouting party, nnder Colonel [J. P.] Brownlow, had a skirmish with some rebel cavalry a mile south of College Grove this afternoon; I officer slightly wounded. It is reported by the citi-. zens in that vicinity that the rebels have moved, from Chapel Hill to Riggs Cross-Roads. I will learn the facts to-morrow. J. M. SCHOFiELD. Brig. Gen. JAMES A. GARFIELD Chief of Staff. APRIL 26, 1863Engagement at Duck River Island, or Little Rock Landing, Tenn. REPORTS. No. 1.Brig. Gen. Alfred W. Ellet, U. S. Army, commanding Mississippi Marine Brigade, with itinerary of the command for April, 1863. No. 2.Lieut. William F. Warren, Acting Signal Officer. No. 1. Report of Brig. Gen. Alfred W. fillet, U. S. Army, commanding Missis sippi Marine Brigade, with itinerary of the command for April, 1863. CAIRO, ILL., April 30, 1863. I have the honor to report that, in compliance with instructions re- ceived from Admiral Porter, I proceeded with my command up Ten- nessee River to Eastport, Miss., without interruption from the enemy. Returning in consequence of low water, I made several raids into the country, and destroyed a number of important mills and considerable amount of subsistence and supplies belonging to the enemy. At the mouth of Duck River my boats were attacked by 700 cavalry, with two pieces of artillery, commanded by Major [R. M.] White, of Sixth Texa Page 279 CHAP. XXXV.] ENGAGEMENT AT DUCK RIVER ISLAND, TENN. 279 Rangers. The fight was spirited for a few moments only. The enemy were driven back and pursued some 12 miles in the interior, with the loss of Major White, mortally woulided and left near the field, and 1 lieu- tenant and 8 men killed. They carried off a large number of wounded in wagons and on horses. We buried their dead. Our loss was 2 men killed and 1 wounded. The west bank of the Tennessee River was lined with refugees, who have been driven from their homes for love to the old Union. I exhausted my supplies in providing for their necessities. The Tennessee River is too low for my boats to operate in with safety. My orders from Admiral Porter do not provide for this emergency. I shall hope to receive instructions from the Department. ALFRED W. ELLIET, Brigadier- General, Commanding Mis8issippi Marine Brigade. Hon. E. N. STANTON. Itinerary of the Missi8sippi Marine Brigade for April, 1863.* On the evening of the 3d, the fleet left Millikens Bend, by order of Admiral Porter, to cruise in the neighborhood of Greenville, Miss. On the 4th, landed for a scout to Lake City, but received orders to proceed immediately to the Tennessee River. On the 15th, arrived at Fort Henry, having been detained at Cairo and Paducah for repairs, and for the arrival of Colonel Streights command. On the 17th, left Fort Henry with Colonel Streights command, under convoy. On the 19th, reached Eastport withont any casualty. Sent out the cavalry from Cerro Gordo Landing, under command of Major Hubbard, to destroy a mill and a large amount of lumbcr u which was burned. , sed for ship-building, On the 21st, was forced to leave Eastport, in conseqnence of the water falling rapidly. Landed at Savannah, and sent scouting parties out to burn mills used by the enemy. Destroyed the mills, with ]arge amount of commissary supplies. Captured 3 of the enemys pickets, and re- turned without loss. On the morning of the 26th, was attacked below the mouth of Duck River by the enemy, 700 strong, commanded by Major [R. M.] White, of the Sixth Texas Rangers, with three pieces of artillery. Landed and pursued the enemy 12 miles, killing 10 men, including Major White, and wounding many more. The enemy escaped, in consequence of the utter impracticability of effecting a landing at the point of attack. Our loss was 2 men killed and several wounded, only 1 seriously. On the 28th, arrived at Fort Henry, the water having fallen so that we found great difficulty in navigating. Ham Monarch, with the bri- gade, in the Tennessee River; ram Switzerland blockading the mouth of the Red River. Ko. 2. Report of Lieut. William F. Warren, Acting Signal Officer. IIDQRS. SIGNAL DETACHMENT, Miss. MARINE BRIGADE, Flag-ship Autocrat, April 20, 1863. CAPTAIN: I have the honor to report that the signal detachment of the From Record of Events in monthly return Page 280 280 KY., MID. AND IX TENN., N. ALA., AND SW. VA. [CHAr. XXXV. Mississippi Marine Brigade has had an opportunity to test its efficiency and make itself useful, to some extent, in the following manner: At a few minutes past 8 oclock this morning, while passing a point on the Tennessee River, a few miles below Duck River, where the direc- tion of the current compelled us to run within 50 yards of the land, our fleet was opened upon by a field battery of four guns and a regiment of cavalry. The Autocrat, being in advance, was the first to receive the fire. The Diana came next, followed by the Adams, each receiving a raking fire at close range, but with very slight casualties. The Auto- crat replied instantly with musketry, the Diana and Adams with mus- ketry and field artillery. Our fire becoming too hot for the rebels, they immediately limbered up and fell back in great haste, out of musket range. The general discovering this, ordered me to signal the other boats to land their forces at once. The order was instantly understood, both by J. Q. Adams, on the Diana, and Lieutenant Wilson, on the Adams. This order was immediately followed by instructions about the position in which they should land. As a result of this signaling, the troops were ready to march out almost at the instant the landing was made. We have officers on each of the five large boats who are able to read signals quite readily, and I have the honor to say that I am reliably informed that they were all npon the hurricane deck dur- ing the engagement, with glasses and equipments, on close lookout for signals. The Diana and Adams were both hotly engaging the enemy at the time their signals were given, and the Adams was receiving the fire of his battery. Officers and mcii deserve commQndation for their coolness and close attention to duty. I am, captain, very respectfully, your obedient servant, W. F. WARREN, Lieut. and Acting S4ignal Officer, Mississippi Marine Brigade. Capt. 0. II. HOWARD, Chief Signal Officer, Western Department. APRIL 26MAY 3, 1863.Streights raid from Tuscumbia, Ala., toward Rome, Ga.* SUMMARY OF TIlE PRINCIPAL EVENTS. April 30, 1863.Actions at Days Gap, or Sand Mountain, Crooked Creek, and Hog Mountain, Ala. May 1, 1863.Skirmishes at Blountsville and on the East Branch of the Big War- rior River, Ala. 2, 1863.Skirmish at Black Creek, near Gadsden, Ala. Action at Blonuts Plantation, Ala. Skirmish near Centre, Ala. 3, 1S63.Skirmish and surrender near Cedar Bluff, Ala. REPORTS. No. 1.Maj. Gen. William S. Rosecrans, U. S. Army. No. 2.Col. Abel D. Streight, Fifty-first Indiana Infantry, commanding expedition. * See also April 15May 2.Expedition to Courtland, Ala., p. 241 Page 281 CHAP. XXXV.] SmEIGHTS l~AID. 281 No. 3.General Joseph B. Johnston, C. S. Army. No. 4.General Braxton Bragg, C. S. Army. No. 5.Thanks of the Confederate Congress to General Nathan B. Forrest and the officers and men of his command. No. 1. Report of ]lIaj. Gen. William S. Rosecrans, U. S. Army. HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE CIJMBERLAND, Murfreesborough, Tenn., May 9, 1863. GENERAL: I informed the General-in-Chief that I proposed to send out an expedition to cut the Georgia Railroad south of Dalton, so as to prevent troops being sent by that route to re-enforce General Bragg, and to impede the forwarding of ammunition and supplies to his army in our front. Colonel Streight,.Fifty.first Indiana Volunteers, was chosen to command the expedition, which consisted of the Fifty-first and Seventy- third Indiana, Eightieth Illinois, and Third Ohio, and two companies of the First Middle Tennessee Cavalry, raised in Northern Alabama. They were provided with pack animals, and mounted with the best we could furnish. They left Nashville on the 11th ultimo, and arrived at East- port, Miss., on the 20th ultimo, by transport from Fort Henry, on the Tennessee River. General Dodge, to cover and protect the movement, advanced from Corinth to Inka, and thence to Tuscumbia, and finally as far as Town Creek, taking Colonel Streight with him. General llurlbut reports by telegraph from Memphis, under dates of May [1], 5, and 6 (copies inclosed), that the movement was a perfect suc- cess up to Sunday, the 26th ultimo, when Colonel Streiglit left Tuscum- bia with every prospect of succeeding in his work. We yesterday had rumors from rebel sources that the expedition had been captured, after destroying a large iron foundry in North Georgia, but before they had succeeded in cutting the road. This report is further confirmed by the Chattanooga Daily Rebel, of the 7th instant, a copy of which is inclosed. I very much regret the failure of the main purpose, but trust that the enterprise will yet compensate us for the temporary loss by the number of troops we shall draw from their front to protect their lines of communication hitherto qnite undisturbed. Inclosed is a copy of the orders and instructions to Colonel Streight, which, together with the copies of General llurlbuts telegrams of the 5th and 6th instant, I forward for the information of the Department and the General-in-Chief. I have the honor to be, general, very respectfully, your obedient servant, W. S. ROSECRANS, Major- General, Commanding. Brig. Gen. LORENZO THOMAS, Adjutant-General, U. S. Army, Washington, D. C. P. S.I also transmit a copy of a dispatch just received from Colonel Streight, dated Tuscumbia, April 26. [Inclosure No. 1.] HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE CUMBERLAND, Murfreesborough, Ienn., April 8, 1863. COLONEL: By Special Field Orders, No.94, Paragraph VIII, you have been assigned to the command of an independent provisional brigad Page 282 282 ET., MID. AND E. TENN., N. ALA., AND SW. VA. [CaAr. Xx~T. for temporary purposes. After fitting out your command with equip- ments and supplies, as you have already been directed in the verbal in- structions of the general commanding this department, you will proceed by a route, of which you will be advised by telegraph, to some good steamboat landing on the Tennessee River not far above Fort Henry, where you will embark your command and proceed up the river. At Hamburg you will communicate with Brigadier-General Dodge, who will probably have a messenger there awaiting your arrival. If it should then appear unsafe to move farther up the river, you will debark at Hamburg, and without delay join the force of General Dodge, which will then be en route for Juka, Miss. If, however, it should be deemed safe, you will land at Eastport and form a junction with General Dodge. From that point you will then march, in conjunction with him, to menace Tuscumbia, but you will not wait to join in the attack unless it should be necessary for the safety of General Dodges command or your own, or unless some considerable advantage ~an be gained over the enemy without interfering with the general object of the expedition. After having marched long enough with General Dodge to create a general impression that you are a part of his expedition, you will push to the southward, and reach Russellville or Moulton. From thence your route will be governed by circumstances, but you will, with all reasonable dispatch, push on to Western Georgia, and cut the railroads which supply the rebel army by way of Chattanooga. To accom- plish this is the chief object of your expedition, and you must not allow collateral and incidental schemes, even though promising great results, to delay you so as to endanger your return. Your quarter- master has been furnished with funds sufficient for the necessary ex- penses of your command. You will draw your supplies and keep your command well mounted from the country through which you pass. For all property taken for the legitimate use of your command you will make cash payments in full to men of undoubted loyalty; give the usual conditional receipts to men whose loyalty is doubtful, but to rebels nothing. You are particularly commanded to restrain your command from pillage and marauding. You will destroy all depots of supplies of the rebel army, all manufactories of guns, ammunition, equipments, and clothing for their use, which you can without delaying you so as to endanger your return. That you may not be trammeled with minute instructions, nothing further will be ordered than this general outline of policy and opera- tion. In intrusting this highly important and somewhat perilous expedition to your charge, the general commanding places great reliance upon your prudence, energy, and valor, and the well-attested bravery and endur- ance of the officers and men under your command. Whenever it is possible and reasonably safe, send us word of your progress. You may return by way of Northern Alabama or Northern Georgia. Should you be surrounded by rebel forces and your retreat cut off, defend yourself as long as possible, and make the surrender of your command cost the enemy as many times your number as possible. A copy of the general order from the War Department in regard to paroling prisoners, together with necessary blanks, are herewith fur- nished you. You are authorized to enlist all able-bodied men who desire to join the Army of the Union Page 283 CHAP. XXXVI STREIGHTS RAID. 283 You must return as soon as the main objects of your expedition are accomplished. Very respectfully, your obedient servant. J. A. GARFIELD, Col. A. D. STREIGHT, Brigadier-General and Chief of & aff. P~fty-first Indiana Volunteer8. [Inclosure ~o. 2.] General GARFIELD: TUSCUMI3IA, ALA., April 26, 1863. After numerous difficulties and delays, I am at last supplied with animals sufficient to mount all but 200 of my command. I have met with a great drawback on account of the mules drawn at Nashville being such poor ones. I shall start at 1 oclock to-morrow morning for Russellville, and from there to Moulton, and find what facts I can gather relative to the condition of things on the route. I have strong hopes of procuring the necessary animals to supply me. I wrote you fully from Eastport, and sent it by Captain Fitch, commanding gun. boats. I learn since, however, that he is still there. General Dodge has let me have nearly 400 animals, and has done everything in his power to aid me, but the people through the country here run off most of their horses and mules. This, with the worthlessness of those brought from Nashville, together with what Colonel Lawson lost in the stampede in my absence, as referred to in my last, has put me to mytrumps; never- theless, Jam very hopeful and confident of success. I shall push on as fast as possible, and rest assured that nothing shall be left undone on my part to insure success, though there is something of a force between here and Decatur, variously estimated from 1,500 to 4,000 men. I hope to get two or three days the start of them, and, should they chase me too fast, I will turn upon them and give them battle in the mountains. Colonel Hathaway joined us on Friday last. He will be of great help to me. This valley is not raising a crop this year; the people are discour- aged and desirous for peace. I cannot say when I will be able to send you a communication again, but will at my first opportunity. Yours, A. D. STREIGHT, Colonel, Commanding. [Inclosure No. 3.] HEADQUARTERS SIXTEENTH ARi~rY CORPS Maj. Gen. ~. ~. ROSEORANS, Memphis, !Fenn, May 1, 1863. Murfreesborough: Streight left Tuscumbia Sunday night. Dodge followed Mondaymorn. ing. Met enemy at Town Creek on Tuesday and drove them off. Streight got two days march on them and went toward the mountains. On the 28th, Van Dorn appeared at Florence in heavy force, with fifteen pieces of artillery. Dodge fell back to Tuscumbia; on the 29th to Little Bear Creek; last night to Big Bear Creek; will move to Burnsville to-night. Van Dorn is at Brush Creek, near Eastport. Roddey fell back to De- catur, and is not following Dodge. S. A. HUELBUT, .2Ltajor-General Page 284 284 KY., MID. AND E. TEYN., N. ALA., AND SW. VA. [Cair. XXXV. [Inclosure No. 4.] ME~IrnIs, TENN., May 5, 18631 p. in., Via Cairo, ill., May 8, 1863. Major-General RosnduAT~s: The following just received from General Dodge: Rebels came up with Streight between Moulton and Blountsville, 8 miles south of Somerville; Streight ambushed and whipped them badly. Rebels sent word from Decatur l~o Chattanooga that Streight was making for that place. Forrest and Roddey are on his track. I think Streight is far in advance of them. I will keep free south of Corinth to enable Streight to get back. HURLBUT, Major. General. [Incloenre No. 5.] MEMPHIS, TENN., 2Jfay 6, 1863. Major-General IROSECRANS, Murfreesborough, Tenn.: Dodge reports by letter to me that Colonel Streight left Tuscumbia on Sunday night, 26th; moved to Mount Hope on Monday; to Moulton on Tuesday; had very poor animals; 400 broke down between Palmyra and Tuscumbia; l)odge gave him enough to make 1,600 on leaving Moulton on Wednesday night, 28th. At that time no enemy was pur- suing, as Dodge had them engaged. iRoddey and Forrest then heard of Streights movement, and supposed it- a flank attack on Decatur, and instantly fell back to that place. Streight thus gained two days start, but would lose some time in picking up 200 more animals at Moulton. Thence he proposed to go Ivy way of Blountsville, and strike the Coosa River. Dodge supplied him with rations to last to the Coosa. If his animals hold out he will succeed, as the enemy cannot follow him very fast, the mountains being between them. All things being favorable, he has done his work by this time. Grierson, with his regiments of cavalry, has destroyed the railroad east and south of Jackson and gone into Gideon, the enemy having gathered near Okolona to intercept his return. I have sent, two days since, five regiments to break them np and draw attention from Streight. Dodges movement has been a bril- liant success, and Griersons magnificent. IIURLBUT, Major-General. No. 2.. Report of Col. Abel D. Streight, Fifty-First indiana Infantry, command ing expedition. IIDQRS. F1RST BRIG., THIRD DIV., FOURTH ARMY CORPS, Camp near Nashville, Tenn., December 10, 1864. SIR: I have the honor herewith to transmit a report of my expedition in April, 1863. The delay in furnishing a report is owing, first, to causes stated in the report, and, secondly, to the fact that previous to finishing the report, after its commencement I was engaged in the pursuit after Wheelers forces, since which time I have been so situated that I have not thought it best to spare the time necessary to complete it. Owing to the many conflicting statements made in relation to the cause o Page 285 CHAP. XXXV.] STREIGHT S RAID. 285 the failure of the expedition, I have the honor to request permission to publish my report. I have the honor to be, your most obedient servant, A. D. STREIGIIT, (Jol. 51st md. Vet. Vol. lufty., Comdg. 1st Brig., 3d Div., 4th Corps. Brig. Gen. WILLIAM B. WITIPPLE, Chief of Staff, Department of the Cumberland. HEADQIJARTERS FIFTY-FIRST INDIANA VOLUNTEERS, Chattanooga, Teun., August 22, 1864. SIR: I have the honor to report that since my return to duty, June 1 last, I have been endeavoring to obtain the nece~sary information, from the several regiments that composed my command, to enable me to render you an accurate report of my expedition in April, 1863; but, owing to the absence of most of my officers (who are still confined as prisoners of war) and the scattered condition of the men, I have been unable to collect as many of the particulars as I had intended. On April 7, 1863, I received orders from General iRosecrans to pro- ceed with the Provisional Brigadeabout 1,700 officers and men, com- posed of my regiment (the Fifty-first Indiana), Seventy-third Indiana, Colonel Hathaway; Third Ohio; Colonel Lawson; Eightieth Illinois, Lieutenant-Colonel Rodgers, and two companies of the First Middle Tennessee Cavalry, Capt. D. B. Smithto Nashville, and to fit out as speedily as possible for an expedition to the interior of Alabama and Georgia, for the purpose of destroying the railroads and other rebel property in that country. I was instructed to draw about half the number of mules necessary to mount my command, at Nashville, and to seize in the country through which I passed a sufficient number of animals to mount the balance. On arriving at Nashville, I organized the following staff, to wit: Capt. B. L. Wright, Fifty-first Indiana Vol- unteers, to be acting assistant adjutant-general; Maj. W. L. Peck, Third Ohio, to be brigade surgeon; Lieut. J. G. Doughty, regimental quartermaster Fifty-first Indiana Volunteers, to be acting assistant quartermaster; Captain IDriscoll, Third Ohio, to be acting assistant in- spector-general; Lient. J. W. Pavey, Eightieth Illinois Volunteers, to be ordnance officer, and Lient. A. C. Roach, Fifty-first Indiana Volun- teers, to be aide -dc-camp. As soon as possible all hands were at work to supply the command with the necessary clothing, ordnance, and equipments for an expedi- tion of this kind, and on the afternoon of the 10th I received orders from General Garfield, chief of staff to embark at once on steamers then at the landing and proceed down the river to Palmyra, land my command there, and march across the country to Fort Henry, and to seize all the horses and mules I could find in the country. Everything was speedily put on board, although it was late iu the evening before the mules were brought to the landing for shipment. I was temporarily absent at the time, attending to some business affairs preparatory to starting; consequently did not see them. As soon as everything was ready we proceeded down the river to Palmyra, where we arrived on the evening of the 11th, and disembarked at once. I sent the fleet, consisting of eight steamers, around to Fort Henry, under the command of Colonel Lawson, Third Ohio, and fur- nished him with four companies of the Fifty-first Indiana Volunteers as guard. He had orders to stop at Smithland and take on a quantity of rations and forage for General Dodges command Page 286 286 KY., MID. AND E. TENN., N. ALA., AND SW. VA. (Cair. XXXV. As soon as it was light the next morning, all hands were set at work to catch and saddle the mules. I then for the first time discovered that the mules were nothing but poor, wild, and unbroken colts, many of them but two years old, and that a large number of them had the horse distemper; some 40 or 50 of the lot were too near dead to travel, and had to be left at the landing; 10 or 12 died before we started, and such of them as could be rode at all were so wild and unmanageable that it took us all that day and a part of the next to catch and break them be. fore we could move out across the country; but in the mean time I had sent out several parties to gather iu horses and mules, and they had been successful in getting about 150 very good animals, but mostly barefooted. On the 13th, the command left Palmyra and marched about 15 miles in a southwesterly direction, and encamped on Yellow Creek. My scouting parties did not succeed in finding many horses or mules. The people had got warning of our movements, an~1 the stock was mostly run off. Early the next morning we resumed our march, and arrived at Fort Henry about noon on the 15th. We had scoured the country as far south as it was safe, on account of the proximity of a large force of the enemy, under [T. G.] Woodward, and although about 100 of the mules gave out and had to be left behind on our march, yet when we reached Fort Henry our animals numbered about 1,250. Those that we had collected in the country were mostly in good condition, but were nearly all barefooted. Contrary to my expectations the boats had not arrived, nor did they reach there until the evening of the 16th, having been delayed in get- ting the rations and forage above referred to. General Ellets Marine Brigade and two gunboats accompanied the fleet to Fort Henry, and informed me that they were ordered to pro. ceed with me as far as Eastport, Miss. General Ellet assumed com- mand of the fleet, and we embarked as soon as possible; but the pilots declared that at the existing low stage of water it would be unsafe to run at nights; hence we did not start until the morning of the 17th, when we steamed up the river, but, despite all my efforts to urge the fleet ahead as fast as possible we did not reach Eastport until the after- noon of the 19th. As soon as we arrived at Eastport, Lleft Colonel Lawson in command, with orders to disembark and prepare to march, while I went to see General Dodge, who, with his command (some 8,000 strong), was await- ing my arrival 12 miles up Bear River. After my interview with Gen- eral Dodge, I returned to Eastport about midnight, and was informed that a stampede had occurred among the animals, and that some of them had got away. Daylight the next morning revealed to me the fact that nearly 400 of our best animals were gone. All that day and part of the next was spent in scouring the country to recover them, but only about 200 of the lost number were recovered; the remainder fell into the hands of the enemy. The loss of these animals was a heavy blow to my command, for be- sides detaining us nearly two days at Eastport and running down our stock in searching the country to recover them, it caused still further delay at Tuscumbia, to supply their places. Quite a number of the mules drawn at Nashville had to b~ left at Eastport, on account of the distemper before mentioned; several died before we left. We left Eastport on the afternoon of April 21, and reached General Dodges headquarters the following morning about 8 oclock. We then proceeited ~n i~ear of General Dodges forces, which were com Page 287 CHAP. XXXV.) STPLEIGHTS RAID. 287 tinually skirmishing with the enemy as they advanced as far as Tuscum- bia, Ala., scour the country to the river on the left and to the mount- ains on our right, and collected all the horses and mules that could be found. We arrived at Tuscumbia about 5 p. m. on April 24. Here General Dodge furnished me some 200 mules and 6 wagons to haul ammunition and rations. I ordered my surgeon to carefully examine my command, and send back to Corinth with General Dodge all men who were not fit for the arduous duties before us. This reduced my command to 1,500 men. General Dodge informed me that there was no doubt but Forrest had crossed the Tennessee River, and was in the vicinity of Town Creek; hence he agreed to advance as far as Courtland, on the Decatur road, and, if possible, drive the enemy in that direction, but if they (the enemy) turned toward Moulton, our cavalry, under General Dodge, was to be sent in pursuit. With this understanding, I marched from Tuscumbia at lip. m. on the night of the 20th instant in the direction of Moulton via Russellville. It was raining very hard, and the mud and darkness of the night made our progress very slow. One hundred and fifty of my men had neither horses nor mules, and fully as many more bad such as were unable to carry more than the saddles; hence fully 300 of the men were on foot. It was expected when I left General Dodge that the greater part of my command would be able to reach Moulton, some 40 miles distant, by the next night, but, owing to the heavy rains and consequent bad condition of the roads, it was impossible; consequently I dispatched a messenger to General Dodge, stating that I would halt at Mount Hope and wait for the portion of my command who were on foot to come up. We continued to scour the country for horses and mules, but so many of those drawn at Nashville were continually failing, that, al. though we were successful in collecting a large number, still, many of the men were without anything to ride. On the night of the 27th, at Mount Hope, I received word from Gen- eral Dodge, stating that he had driven the enemy, and that I should push on. My command had not all come np yet, nor did they until about 10 a. m. the next day, when we proceeded to Moulton, where we arrived about dark. Up to this time we had been skirmishing occa- sionally with small squads of the enemy, but I could hear of no force of consequence in the country. All of the command but about 50 men were now mounted. We started from Moulton, in the direction of Blountsville, via Days Gap, about midnight on April 28. The two previous days it had been raining most of the time, and the roads were terrible, though on the evening of the 28th it bid fair for dry weather, which gave us strong hopes of better times. We marched the next day (the 29th) to Days Gap, about 35 mlles, and bivouacked for the night. Every man now was mounted, and although many of the animals were very poor, nevertheless we had strong hopes that we could easily supply all future demands. We de- stroyed during the day a large number of wagons belonging to the enemy, laden with provisions, arms, tents, & c., which had been sent to the mountains to avoid us, but, luckily, they fell into our hands. We were now in the midst of devoted Union people. Many of Captain Smiths men (Alabamians) were recruited near this place, and many were the happy greetings between them and their friends and relations Page 288 288 KY., MID. AND E. TENN., N. ALA., AND SW. VA. LOIIAr. xxxv. I could learn nothing of the enemy in the country, with the exception of small squads of sconting parties, who were hunting conscripts. We moved out the next morning before daylight. I will here remark that my men had been worked very hard in scouring so much of the country, and unaccustomed as they were to riding, made it still worse; consequently, they were illy prepared for the trying ordeal through which they were to pass. I had not proceeded more than 2 miles, at the head of the column before I was informed that the rear guard had been attacked, and just at that moment I heard the boom of artillery in the rear of the column. I had previously learned that the gap through which we were passing was easily flanked by gaps through the mountains, both above and below; consequently I sent orders to the rear to hold the enemy in check until we could prepare for action. The head of the column was at the time on the top of the mountain. The column was moving through the gap; consequently the enemy was easily held iu check. I soon learned that the enemy had moved through the gaps on my right and left, and were endeavoring to form a junction in my advance; consequently I moved ahead rapidly until we passed the intersecting roads on either flank with the one we occupied. The country was open, sand ridg& s, very thinly wooded, and afforded fine defensive positions. As soon as we passed the l)Oint above designated (about 3 miles from the top of the mountains), we dismounted and formed a line of battle on a ridge circling to the rear. Our right rested on a precipitous ravine and the left was protected by a marshy run that was easily held against the enemy. The mules were sent into a ravine to the rear of our right, where they were protected from the enemys bullets. I also deployed a line of skirmishers, resting on our right and left flanks encircling our rear, in order to prevent a surprise from any detached force of the enemy that might approach us from that direction and to prevent any straggling of either stray animals or cowardly men. In the mean time I had instructed Captain Smith, who had command of our rear guard (now changed to our front), to hold his position until the enemy pressed him closely, when he should retreat rapidly, and, if possible, draw them on to our lines, which were concealed by the men lying down immediately back of the top of the ridge. The lines were left sufficiently open to permit Captain Smiths command to pass through near the center. I had two 12-pounder mountain howitzers, which were stationed near the road (the center). They were also concealed. We had hardly completed our arrangements when the enemy charged Captain Smith in large force, following him closely, and no sooner had he passed our lines than our whole line rose up and delivered a volley at short range. We continued to pour a rapid fire into their ranks, which soon caused them to give way in confusion; but their re-enforcemeuts soon came up, when they dismounted, formed, and made a determined and vigorous attack. Our skirmishers were soon driveii in, and about the same time the enemy opened upon us with a battery of artillery. The enemy soon attempted to carry our lines, but were handsomely repulsed. During their advance they had run their artillery to within 300 yards of our lines, and as soon as they began to waver I prepared for a charge. I ordered Colonel Hathaway, Seventy-third Indiana, and Lieutenant-Colonel Sheets, Fifty-first Indiana, on the left, to make a charge, in order to draw the attention of the battery, and itumedi- ately threw the Third Ohio, Colonel Lawson, and the Eightieth Illi- nois, Lieutenant Colonel Rodgers, forward rapidly, hoping to capture ttme battery. The enemy, after a short but stubborn resistance, ~ed i Page 289 CRAP. XXXV.] STREIGHTS RAID. 289 confusion, leaving two pieces of artillery, two caissons, and about 40 prisoners, representing seven different regiments, a large number of wounded, and about 30 dead ou the field. Among the former was Captain [William llj Forrest, a brother of General Forrest. Our loss was about 30 killed and wounded, among the latter Lieutenant-Colonel Sheets, Fifty-first Indiana (mortally), a brave and gallant officer, and one that we were illy prepared to lose, and Lieutenant Pavey, Eightieth Illinois (on my staff), severely. It was now about 11 oclock, fighting having continued since about 6 oclock in the morning. I had learned, in the mean time, that the enemy were in heavy force, fully three times our number, with twelve pieces of artillery, under General Forrest in person; consequently I was fearful that they were making an effort to get around us and attack in the rear of our position; hence I decided to resume the march. Every- thing was soon in readiness, and we moved out, leaving a strong guard (dismounted) in the rear, to check any immediate advance the enemy might make previous- to the column getting in motion. We were not too soon in our movements, for the column had hardly passed a cross- road, some 6 miles from our first battle-ground, when the enemy were discovered advancing on our left. Sharp skirmishing commenced at Crooked Creek, which is about 10 miles south of Days Gap, and finally the enemy pressed our rear so hard that I was compelled to prepare for battle. I selected a strong position, about 1 mile south of the crossing of the creek, on a ridge called Hog Mountain. The whole force soon became engaged (about one hour before dark). The enemy strove first to carry onr right; then charged the left; but with the help of the two pieces of artillery captured in the morning and the two mountain how- itzers, all of which were handled with good effect by Major Yananda, of the Third Ohio, we were able to repulse them. Fighting continued until about 10 p. in., when the enemy were driven from our front, leaving a large number of killed and wounded on the field. I determined at once to resume our march, and as soon as pos- sible we moved out. The ammunition which we had captured with the two guns was exhausted, and being very short of horses, I ordered the guns spiked and the carriages destroyed. I had ordered the Seventy- third Indiana (Colonel Hathaway) to act as rear guard, and I remained in the rear in person, for the purpose of being at hand in case the enemy should attempt to press us as we were moving out. We had but fairly got under way when I received information of the enemys advance. The moon shone very brightly, and the country was an open wood- land, with an occasional spot of thick undergrowth. In one of these thickets I placed the Seventy-third Indiana, lying down, and not more than 20 paces from the road, which was in plain view. The enemy approached. The head of his column passed without discovering our position. At this moment the whole regiment opened a most destruc- tive fire, causing a complete stampede of the enemy. I will here re- mark that the country from Days Gap to Blountsville (about 40 miles) is mostly uninhabited; consequently there i~ nothing in the country for manor beast. I had hopes that by pushing ahead we could reach a pk~ce where we could feed before the enemy would come up with us, and, by holding him back where there was no feed, compel him to lay over a day at least to recuperate. I had learned that they had been on a forced march from Town Creek, Ala., a day and two nights previous to their attacking us. We were not again disturbed until we had marched 19 R RVOL XXI~T~ PT Page 290 290 KY., MID. AND E. TENN., N. ALA., AND SW. YA. ~CITAF. XXXV. several miles, when they attacked our rear guard vigorously. I again succeeded in ambuscading them, which caused them to give up the pur- suit for the night. We continued our march, and reached Blountsville about 10 oclock in the morning. Many of our mules had given out, leaving their riders on foot, but there was very little straggling behind the rear guard. At Blountsville we found sufficient corn to feed our tired and hungry animals. Ammunition and rations were hastily distributed to the men, and the remaining ammunition was put on pack mules and the wagons burned, as it was now understood that it would be impossible to take them over the roads before us. After resting about two hours, we re- sumed our march in the direction of Gadsden. The column had not got fairly under motion before our pickets were driven in, and a sharp skirmish ensued between Forrests advance and our rear guard, under Captain Smith, in the town of Blountsville. The enemy followed closely for several miles, continually skirmishing with the rear guard, but were badly handled by small parties of our men stopping in the thick bushes by the side of the road and firing at them at short range, and when we reached the East Branch of the Black Warrior River the ford was very deep and the enemy pressed so closely that I was compelled to halt and offer him battle before we could cross. After some maneuvering, I advanced a heavy line of skirmishers, who drove the enemy out of sight of my main line, when I ordered the troops, except the skirmishers, to cross the river as rapidly as possible. After all had crossed, except the skirmishers, they were rapidly withdrawn, under cover of our artillery, and a heavy line of skirmishers thrown out on the opposite bank for that purpose. It was about 5 p. m. when the last of the~ command crossed the East Branch of the Black Warrior. We proceeded in the direction of Gadsden without further interruption, with the exception of small parties who were continually harassing the rear of the column, until about 9 oclock the next morning, May 2, when the rear guard was fiercely attacked at the crossing of Black Creek, near Gadsden. After a sharp fight the enemy was repulsed. I had learned in the mean time, through my scouts, that a large column of the enemy was moving on our left, parallel with our route, evidently with the intention of getting in our front, which made it neces- sary for us to march all night, though the command was in no condition to do so, and, to add still more to my embarrassment, a portion of our ammunition had become damaged in crossing Wills Creek, which, at the time, was very deep fording. I only halted at Gadsden sufficiently long to destroy a quantity of arms and commissary stores found there, and proceeded on. Many of our animals and men were entirely worn out and unable to keep up with the column; consequently they fell be- hind the rear guard and were captured. It now became evident to me that our only hope was in crossing the river at Rome and destroying the bridge, which would delay Forrest a day or two and give us time to collect horses and mules, and allow the command a little time to sleep, without which it was impossible to pro- ceed. The enemy followed closely, and kept up a continuous skirmish with the rear of the column until about 4 p. in., at which time we reactred Blounts plantation, about 15 miles from Gadsden, where we could pro- cure forage for our animals. Here I decided to halt, as it was impossi- ble to continue the march through the night without feeding and resting, although to do so was to bring on a general engagement. Accordingly, the command was dismounted, and a detail made to feed the horses an Page 291 CHAP. XXXV.] STREIGHTS RAID. 291 mules, while the balance of the command formed in line of battle on a ridge southwest of the plantation. Meanwhile the rear guard, in holding the enemy in check, had become severely engaged and was driven in. The enemy at once attacked our main line, and tried hard to carry the center, but were gallantly met and repuised by the Fifty-first and Seventy-third Indiana, assisted by Major Vananda, with two mountain howitzers. They then made a de- termined effort to turn our right, but were met by the gallant Eightieth Illinois, assisted by two companies of the Third Ohio. The enemy, with the exception of a few skirmishers, then fell back to a ridge some half a mile distant, and commenced massing his force, as if preparing for a more determined attack. It was becoming dark, and I decided to withdraw unobserved, if possible, and conceal my command in a thicket some half a mile to our rear, there to lie in ambush and await his advance. In the mean time I had ordered Capt. Milton Rus- sell (Fifty-first Indiana) to take 200 of the best mounted men, selected from the whole command, and proceed to Rome, and hold the bridge until the main command could come up. The engagement at Blounts plantation revealed the fact that nearly all of our remaining ammunition was worthless, on account of having been wet. Much of that carried by the men had become useless by the paper wearing out and the powder sifting away. It was in this engage- ment that the gallant Colonel Hathaway (Seventy-third Indiana) fell, mortally wounded, and in a few moments expired. Our country has seldom been called upon to mourn the loss of so brave and valuable an officer. His loss to me was irreparable. His men had almost worshipped him, and when he fell it cast a deep gloom of despondency over his regi- ment which was hard to overcome. We remained in ambush but a short time when the enemy, who by some means had learned of our whereabouts, commenced a flank move- ment, which we discovered in time to check; I then decided to with- draw as silently as possible, and push on in the direction of Rome, but as a large number of the men were dismounted, their animals having given out, and the remainder of the stock wa~s so jaded, tender-footed, and worn down, our progress was necessarily slow; yet, as everything depended on our reaching Rome before the enemy could throw a suffi- cient force there to prevent our crossing the bridge, every possible effort was made to urge the command forward. We proceeded without inter- ruption until we reached the vicinity of Centre, when one of my scouts informed me that a force of the enemy was posted in~ambush but a short distance in our front. I immediately threw forward a line of skir- mishers, with orders to proceed until they were fired upon, when they should open a brisk fire on the enemy, and hold their position until the command had time to pass. The plan worked admirably, for, while my skirmishers were amusing the enemy, the main column made a detour to the right, and struck the main road some 3 miles to the rear of the enemy. As soon as our main force had passed, the skirmishers withdrew and fell in the rear of the column. I was then hopeful that we could reach Rome before the en- emy could overtake us. My principal guide had thus far proved relia- ble andl had made particular inquiries of him as to the character of the road and the coun try the evening before, and he assured me that there were no difficult streams to cross and that the road was good; hence we approached the Chattooga River at the ferry without any information as to the real condition of things Captain Russell had managed to ferry the last of his command across about one hour pr Page 292 292 KY., MID. AND E. TENN., N. ALA., AND SW. VA. [CHAP. XXXV~ vious to my arrival, but the enemy had seized and run off the boat before we reached there. I then ascertained that there was a bridge some 7 or 8 miles up the river, near Gaylesville, and procured new guides and pushed on as rapidly as possible iu order to reach the bridge before the enemy should take possession of it. We had to pass over an old coal chopping for several miles, where the timber had been cut and hauled off for char- coal, leaving innumerable wagon roads running in every direction, and the command was so worn out and exhausted that many were asleep, and in spite of every exertion I could make, with the aid of such of my officers as were able for duty, the command became separated and scattered into several squads, traveling in different directions, and it was not until near daylight that the last of the command had crossed the river. The bridge was burned, and we proceeded on and passed Cedar Bluff just after daylight. It now became evident that the horses and mules could not reach Rome without halting to rest and feed. Large numbers of the mules were continually giving out. In fact, I do not think that at that time we had a score of the mules drawn at Nashville left, and nearly all of those taken in the country were bare- footed, and many of them had such sore backs and tender feet that it was impossible to ride them; bnt, in order to get as near as possible to the force I had sent ahead, we struggled on until about 9 a. in., when we halted and fed our animals. The men, being unaccustomed to riding, had become so exhausted from fatigue and loss of sleep that it was almost impossible to keep them awake long enough to feed. We had halted but a short time, when I was informed that a heavy force of the enemy was moving on our left, on a route parallel with the one we were marching on, and was then nearer Rome than we were. About the same time I received this information our pickets were driven in. The command was immediately ordered into line, and every effort made to rally the men for action, but nature was exhausted, and a large portion of my best troops actually went to sleep while lying in line of battle under a severe skirmish fire. After some maneuvering, Forrest sent in a flag of truce, demanding the surrender of my forces. Most of my regimental commanders had already expressed the opinion that, unless we could reach Rome and cross the river before the enemy came up with us again, we should be compelled to surrender. Con- sequently I called a council of war. I had learned, however, in the mean time, that Captain Russell had been unable to take the bridge at Rome. Our condition was fully canvassed. As I have remarked be- fore, our ammunition was worthless, our horses and mules in a des- perate condition, the men were overcome with fatigue and loss of sleep, and we were confronted by fully three times onr number, in the heart of the enemys country, and, although personally opposed to surrender, and so expressed myself at the time, yet I yielded to the unanimous voice of my regimental commanders, and at once entered into negotia- tions with Forrest to obtain the best possible terms I could for my com- mand, and at about noon, May 3, we surrendered as prisoners of war. We were taken to Richmond, Va. The men were soon sent through the lines and exchanged. My officers and myself were confined in Libby Prison, where we remained until the night of February 9 last, when four of my officers and myself, together with several other pris- oners, succeeded in making our escape, and reached Washington in safety about March 1. The balance of my officers, or nearly all of them, are still confined as prisoners or have died of disease, the result of long confinement, insufficient food, and cruel treatment at the hands of the enemy Page 293 Cix~r. xxxv.] STREIGHTS RAID. 293 I am unable to report the exact number of casualties in the command, but from the best information I have been able to obtain, there were 15 officers and about 130 enlisted men killed and wounded. It was a matter of astonishment to all that so much fighting should occur with so few casualties on our side; but we acted purely on the defensive, and took advantage of the nature of the country as best we could. From actual personal observation where we had driven the enemy from the field, and from what my surgeons, left with our wounded, learned in re- lation to the loss of the enemy, I am convinced that we killed more of his men than we lost in both killed and wounded. Previous to the surrender, we had captured and paroled about 200 prisoners, and had lost about the same number in consequence of the animals giving out, and the men, unable to keep up, broke down from exhaustion, and were necessarily picked up by the enemy; but in no case was the enemy able to capture a single man in any skirmish or battle within my knowledge. I deem it proper to mention the barbarous treatment my wounded re- ceived at the hands of the enemy. Owing to the nature of the service we were performing, we were compelled to leave our wounded behind. I pi~ovided for them as best I could by leaving them blankets and such rations as we had, and two of my surgeons remained behind to attend them; but no sooner did the enemy get possession of our hospitals than they robbed both officers and men of their blankets, coats, hats, boots, shoes, rations, and money. The medical stores and instruments were taken from the surgeons, and my wounded left in a semi-naked and starving condition, in some instances many miles from any inhabitants, to perish. Many thanks to the Union ladies of that country, for they saved many a brave soldier from a horrible death. In reviewing the history of this ill-fated expedition, I am convinced that had we been furnished at Nashville with 800 good horses, instead of poor, young mules, we would have been successful, in spite of all other drawbacks; or if General Dodge had succeeded in detaining Forrest one day longer, we would have been successful, even with our poor outfit. In conclusion, I will bear testimony to the bravery and uncomplain- ing endurance of both officers and men of my command during those trying days and nights. To my staff I owe much for their good exam- ple and constant labors. I have the honor, sir, to be, your obedient servant, A. D. STREIGHT, Colonel Fifty-first Indiana Veteran Volunteer Infantry. Brig. Gen. WILLIAM D. WEIPPLE, Chief of Staff, Department of the Cumberland. No. 3. Report of General Joseph II. Johnston, C. S. Army. TIJLLAHOMA, JIfay 7, 1863. General [N. B.] Forrest, with three regiments, was led to Rome, Ga.,by a mounted Federal party, which he captured. Colonel [P. P.] Roddey, with the remainder of their joint force, was ordered into Mis- sissippi on the 5th. J. E. JOHNSTON. General S. COoPER Page 294 294 KY., MID. AND E. TENN., N. ALA., AND SW. VA. [CHAP. XXXV. No. 4. Reports of General Braxton Bragg, 0. S. Army. TULLAHOMA, May 5, [1863.] On April 18, the enemy, moving from Corinth toward Tuscumbia, crossed Bear Creek with five regiments of cavalry, two of infantry, and ten pieces of artillery. Colonel [P. D.] Roddey, commanding, fought them on the 18th, with one regiment, killing a large number and cap- turing more than 100 prisoners and one piece of artillery, with horses and 1 caisson, losing 6 killed and 20 wounded. The enemy, after burning [burying] their dead, fell back, and, on the 19th, were re.enforced to threefull brigades, the whole under command of General Dodge. Skir. inishing continued on the 19th, 20th, 21st, 22d, and 23d. On the night of the 19th, the enemy landed troops at Eastport, from a large number of steamers, and burned the town and houses on several plantations. On the 24th, IRoddey fought them; their loss heavy, ours slight; con- tested every inch of ground, but falling back before overwhelming forces. The enemy advancing, entered Tuscumbia on the 25th. The enemy ad- vanced toward Decatur as far as Town Creek; no move until the 28th. On that day, Forrest, with his brigade, having been ordered by me from Columbia, arrived and engaged them all day, with loss of 1 killed and 3 wounded; the loss of the enemy heavy. Forrest, falling back on the 28th, discovered a heavy force of cav- alry, under Colonel Streight, marching on Moulton and Blountsville. General Forrest pursued this force with two regiments, fighting him all day and night at Drivers Gap, at Sand Mountain, with a loss of 5 killed and 50 wounded, Captains [W. II.] Forrest and [Aaron] Thompson, it is feared, mortally. Tlie enemy left on the field 50 killed and 150 wounded; burned 50 of his wagons; turned loose 250 wiules and 150 negroes, and pursued his way toward Blountsville, Gadsden, and iRome, Ga. On May 3, between Gadsden and Rome, after five days and nights of fighting and marching, General Forrest captured Colonel Streight and his whole command, about 1,600, with rifles, horses, & c. BRAXTOX BRAGG. [General] S. CooPER, Adjutant and Inspector General. TULLAIIOMA, May 7, 1863. Between Rome and Gadsden, a party of 1,600 of the Federal Army surrendered to General [N. B.] Forrest, after several days fighting, in one of which he forced them to burn their wagons and turn loose a large number of negroes. Shall I send them as prisoners of [war] to Rich- mond, or deliver them to the Governor of Alabama 3 BRAXTON BRAGG. General [S.] COOPER, Adjutant and Inspector General. ADDENDA. RIcHMOND, May 8, 1863. General BRAXTON BRAGG, Tullahoma, Tenn.: The slaves captured by General Forrest should be sent for safe-keep-~ ing, with sufficient guard, to the nearest camp of instruction, as provided in General Orders, No. 25, from this office, of March 6, 1863, with which, as far as necessary, please comply. S. COOPER Page 295 CIL& P. XXXV.] EXPEDITION TO MONTICELLO, KY., ETC. 295 RICHMOND, May 13, 1863. General BRAXTON BRAGG, Tullahoma, Tenn.: Send at once to this city all captured officers and men. S. COOPER. No. 5. Thanks of the Confederate Gongress to General Nathan B. Forrest and the officers and men of his command. Resolved by the Congress of the clonfederate States of America, That the thanks of Congress are again due, and are hereby tendered, to General N. B. Forrest and the officers and men of his command, for meritorious service in the field, and especially for the daring, skill, and perseverance exhibited in the pursuit and capture of the largely superior forces of the enemy, near Rome, Ga., in May last; for gallant conduct at Chick- amauga, and for his recent brilliant services in West Tennessee. Approved February 17, 1864. APRIL 26MAY 12, 1863.Expedition to Monticello, Ky., and operations in Southeastern Kentucky. SUMMARY O]~ TI{E PRINCIPAL EVENTS. April 2629 ,1863.Expedition to Celina, Ky. 28May 2, 1863.Skirmishes near Monticello, Ky. May 9, 1863.Skirmish at Alcorns Distillery, ne~ r Monticello, Ky. 10) 1863.Action at Horseshoe Bottom, Cumberland River. Skirmish at Phillips Fork, Red Bird Creek, Ky. 11, 1863.Skirmish at La Fayette, Tenn. REPORTS. ~o. 1.Maj. Gen. Ambrose E. Buruside, U. S. Army, commanding Department of the Ohio. No. 2.Brin Gen. Jeremiah T. Boyle, U. S. Army, commanding District of Western Kentucky. No. 3.Brig. Gen. Edwnrd H. Hobson, U. S. Army. No. 4.Brig. Gen. Mahion D. Manson, U. S. Army. No. 5.Col. Richard T. Jacob, Ninth Kentncky Cavalry, commanding brigade. No. 6.Col. David Morrison, Seventy-ninth New York Infantry, commanding First Brigade, First Division, Ninth Army Corps. No. 7.Lient. Col. W. Huntington Smith, Twentieth Michigan Infantry. No. 8.Capt. Wendell D. Wiltsie, Twentieth Michigan Infantry. No. 9.Brig. Gen. Samuel P. Carter, U. S. Army, commanding Fourth Division, Ninth Army Corps. No. lOCoL Samuel A. Gilbert, Forty-fourth Ohio Infantry, commanding Second Brigade. No. 11.Maj. Gen. Dabney H. Maury, C. S. Army, commanding Department of East Tennessee. No. 12.Maj. Gen. Simon B. Buckner, C. S. Army, commanding Department of East Tennessee. No. 13.Brig. Gen. John H. Morgan, C. S. Army. No. 14.Maj. R. S. Bullock, Eighth Kentucky Cavalry (Confederate) Page 296 296 KY., MID. AND E. TENN., N. ALA., AND SW. VA. [CHAr. XXXV. No. 15.Col. D. W. Chenault, Eleventh Kentucky Cavalry (Confederate). No. 16.Brig. Gen. John Pegram, C. S. Army. No. 17.Col. J. J. Morrison, First Georgia Cavalry, commanding brigade. No. 18.Col. George W. McKenzie, Fifth Tennessee Cavalry. No. 19.Capt. A. L. Mims, Fifth Tennessee Cavalry. No. 1. Reports of Maj. Gen. Ambrose F. Burnside, U. S. Army, commanding Department of the Ohio. CINCINNATI, OHIO, May 2, 1863. After three brushes, our people occupied Monticello with infantry. The cavalry is in pursuit in direction of Albany. The troops behaved well. Morgan is said to be at or near Gainesborough. We hold Tomp. kinsville, with guards at the Celina Ford and below. We will have difficulty ~n holding all we have taken, as there is no forage there. An expedition will cross at Williamsburg to.morrow or next day. Hum- phrey Marshall is at Mount Pleasant. A. F. BURXSJDE, Major. General. Maj. Gen. H. W. HALLECK, General-in- Chief. CINCINNATI, OHIO, May 11, 1863. The following has just been received from General Boyle: Jacob fought rebels yesterday eight hours. Last part of engagement lasted forty- five minutes. It was desperate. lie drove rebels at point of the bayonet for half a mile, when Morgan threw his whole force upon him, consisting of nine regiments, 6,000 strong. Jacob fell back in good order, contesting every inch; brought off his whole command in defiance of Morgan. Jacob had only 500 men in battle; loss not ascer- tained; rebel loss heavy. Morgan occupies the Narrows. If General Carter would make a rapid movement by way of Monticello, Morgan could be cut off. Prisoners state that this has deranged the whole of Morgans plans. BOYLE. This shows where Morgan is. Certainly a portion of his force is on the south side of the Cumberland, at the mouth of Greasy Creek, as the fight took place there; but I think the above is exaggeration. A. F. BURYSIDE, Major-General. General W. S. ROSECIIANS. CINCINNATI, OHIO, May 11, 1863. The following has just been received from General Boyle. Please have it repeated to Carter: General Manson says Jacob had a hard fight of eight hours with Morgan. Loss heavy in the Twentieth Michigan; 3 officers killed. Morgan sent a flag of truce, de- manding surrender; Jacob replied, Never. Enemys loss very heavy. Jacob e~- pects enemy to attack him this morning. Jacob has succeeded in crossing all his men to north side of the Cumberland. 1 have ordered Jacob to fall back to Colum- bia, and ordered Colonel Morrison to Columbia to re-enforce him. Morgan intends to make a raid. BOYLE. A. F. BURNSIDE, Major. General. General 0. B. WILLCOX, Lexington, Ky Page 297 ChAr. XXXV.] EXPEDITION TO MONTICELLO, KY., ETC. 297 No. 2. Reports of Brig. Gen. Jeremiah I. Boyle, U. S. Army, commanding Dis trict of Western Kentucky. LOUISVILLE, April 28, 1863. GENERAL: General Hobson dispatches me that detachment of the Fifth Indiana Cavalry and Fourteenth Illinois Cavalry, on the 25th in~ stant, near Jamestown and Scottsville, captured 23 rebels, 35 horses, 2 mules, 1 yoke ot oxen, sundry small-arms, and some merchandise, and destroyed mill grinding for General Morgan. Expedition last heard from at Celina. Colonel Jacob crossed at Greasy Creek or Horseshoe Bottom, near Jamestown, with 200 men, drove back the rebel pickets, and occupied the Narrows, which will enable him to protect the crossing of remainder of his force. They have heard nothing of Carter or hi~~ movements. Jacob cannot maintain himself or his position unless Carter is moving on the rebels. I have ordered regiment of infantry from Columbia and artillery to the river at Greasy Creek to support him, and sent one of Colonel Mor- risons regiments to Columbia from Green River Bridge. Where is Carter? May I calculate on his certainly moving on the rascals? J. T. BOYLE. Maj. Gen. AMBROSE E. BURNSIDE. LOUISVILLE, April 29, 1863. GENERAL: General Hobson reports that Colonel Graham in his ex- pedition has captured 30 rebels, shelled the enemy at Celina and drove them from that place, attacked 600 at Bennetts Ferry, shelling them at long range, killing 1. No rebels at Celina or Bennetts Ferry. [0. P.] Hamilton has resigned and Colonel [R. C.] Morgan has command of his force. Generals Morgan and Wheeler are in vicinity of Gainesborough. Pegram at Albany. Colonel Graham encamped near Tompkinsville, with his artillery and reserve cavalry, sending scouts to crossings of the Cumberland. The country supplies sufficient forage and subsistence. He will re- main there for orders. I fear if he withdraws to Glasgow the scoundrels will come and desolate the country yet. A force should be in the works at Glasgow. I await your orders. J. T. BOYLE, Brigadier-General. Maj. Gen. Al~n3ROSB E. BURNS1DE. No. 3. Report of Brig. Gen. Edward H. Hobson, U. S. Army. LOUISvILLE, May 12, 1863. GENERAL: The following just received from General Hobson: Major [F. M.] Davidson, Fourteenth Illinois Cavalry, and 100 men had a fight with 125 of Morgans men at La Fayette, Tenn., last night. Our loss was 1 officer and Page 298 298 KY., MID. AND B. TENN., N. ALA., AND SW. VA. [CHAr. XXXV. privates wounded, and 4 inert taken prisoners. Rebel loss, 2 killed, 1 wounded left behind, and several wounded carried off. Major Davidson falling back to Barren River. Colonel Graham has re-enforced him with 50 men. Three hundred rebels are crossing at Greenville. E. H. HOBSON. J. T. BOYLE, Brigadier- General. Maj. Gen. AMBROSE B. BURNSIDE, Cincinnati, Ohio. No. 4. Reports of Brig. Gen. lIfahion D. iiianson, U. ~. Army. LOUISVILLE, Ky., May 10, 1863. GENERAL: Following just received from Lebanon: Colonel Jacob sent a party to break up guerrillas yesterday. They captured S prisoners, but [did] not return as ordered. Rebels attacked when they were divided, killing 6, wounding some, and about 40 missing. Colonel Jacob thinks that most of them will come in. Several hundred attacked Jacob this morning; after fighting two hours, rebels fell back. Jacob has 1 man wounded in to-days fight. Artillery and most of the cavalry on this side of the river. Jacob has strong position at the Narrows. River cant be forded. Will cross nuder cover of darkness. Rebels lost heavily in yesterdays fight, and had 5 killed to-day. MAHLON D. MANSON. I am fearful Manson has improperly allowed Jacob to cross the river, and have ordered him to direct Jacob to recross to this side immedi- ately. J. T. BOYLE, Brigadier- General. General AMBROSE E. BUENSIDE. HEADQUARTERS UNITED STATES FORCES, Lebanon, Ky~, ]JIay 15, 1863. CAPTAIN: I have the honor to submit the following report of the part taken by the troops of my command near Monticello, Ky., and on the Cumberland River: In obedience to orders from district headquarters, of date April 26, 1863,1 ordered Colonel Jacob to proceed, with the Ninth, Twelfth, and a portion of the Eleventh Kentucky Cavalry, to the assistance of Brigadier-General Carter, and to cross the Cumberland River at the mouth of Greasy Creek. Colonel Jacob crossed the Cumberland on April 27, and took posses- sion of the Narrows of Horseshoe Bottom. Learning that General Car- ter could not cross at Waitsborough, on account of the swollen condition of the river, and deeming it unsafe for Jacob to remaiii in his position, I ordered him to be re-enforced with the Twentieth Michigan Infantry and one section of the Twenty-fourth Indiana Battery, which were at Columbia, Ky., and to recross to the north bank, which was done. On May 1, Colonel Jacob recrossed the river again, and proceeded with his command to Monticello, and, by order of General Carter, returned on May 6. After crossing most of his forces, he sent a party, on May 9, to break up a guerrilla band. That party met Morgans advance, and, after a severe skirmish, succeeded in joining the main body at the Narrows Page 299 299 CHAP. XXXV.] EXPEDITION TO MONTICELLO, KY., ETC. Early on May 10, Morgan attacked Jacob with his whole force, con- sisting of between 5,000 and 6,000 men, and after a severe engagement, lasting some hours, Colonel Jacob was compelled to recross the Cum- berland River, which he did in the most skillful and soldierlike manner. Colonel Jacob is entitled to great credit for the prompt manner with which he moved, and the skill and courage he displayed. Crossing the Cumberland River with the odds against him is one of the most gallant feats of the war in this State, and so especially his reply to Morgans demand for a surrender, which was so ably seconded by Captain Har- rison, of the Twelfth Kentucky Cavalry. I would call your especial attention to Colonel Jacobs report, referring to the praiseworthy conduct of the several officers therein named and their commands. Herewith I forward the report of Colonel Jacob, and the report of casualties marked A ; * also the report of Lieutenant-Colonel Riley,t commanding the Eleventh Kentucky Cavalry. I am, captain, with high consideration, your obedient servant, MAIILON D. MANSON, Brigadier- General, Commanding. Capt. A. C. SEMPLE, Assistant Adjutant-General, District of Western Kentucky. No. 5. Report of Gol. Richard 1. Jacob, Ninth Kentucky Cavalry, commanding brigade. COLUMBIA, KY., May 12, 1863. SIR: In accordance with an order received from you, with parts of the Ninth, Eleventh, and Twelfth Kentncky Cavalry, I marched, by the way of Jamestown and the mouth of Greasy Creek, to the Cumberland River, to create a diversion in favor of Brigadier-General Carter, who was to have crossed the Cumberland at Waitsborongh and Mill Springs to Monticello at daylight of the same day, Monday, April 27. My ad- vance guard canght 2 of the enemys pickets at the river. On Tuesday, the 28th, I took possession of the Narrows of Horse- shoe Bottom, a very strong position, driving out the enemy~s pickets. 1 had nearly crossed my whole force when 1 received information that the enemy were crossing a force at Rowena to try and flank us. I re- crossed a battalion to prevent such a movement, and sent scouts to ascertain the truth of the report. My pickets were attacked the same day, and gallantly repulsed the enemy, who outnumbered them three to one. Not hearing anything of General Carter, I dispatched a courier to Somerset to ascertain whether he had crossed the Cumberland. By return courier I found he had not. I still kept possession of the Narrows, and retained one battalion of the Ninth Kentucky Cavalry on the north side of the river, not deeming it safe to advance, knowing the enemy to have nearly four to one, with artillery. On Thursday, April 30, Ireceived information from Brigadier-General Carter that he would cross the river and march to Monticello. On the same day I was re-enforced by the Twentieth Michigan Infantry and two pieces of the Twenty-fourth Indiana Battery. I dispatched to you to Not found. t See p 265 Page 300 300 KY., MID. AND E. TENN., N. ALA., AND SW. VA. [CHAP. XXXV. know whether I should march to Brigadier.General Carters assistance, and received answer to immediately do so. On Friday, May 1, at 1 oclock, with my whole command, I gave orders at once to cross. The Cumberland had now become unfordable, and I had to swim the horses that were on the north side, including the cross- ing of artillery and infantry. By 12 p. m. I had crossed my whole force. Leaving camp at an early hour, I arrived by 2 oclock with my command at Monticello. Brigadier. General Carter.had arrived the evening before, after first defeating the enemy. Though too late to aid in the fight, I learned from Colonel Wolford that we had completely deceived the enemy, making them believe that the real force was with us and the feint from them, thus giving ample time to cross, while the enemy was distracted with our demonstration. On Monday, May 4, all the cavalry at Monticello nuder command of Colonel Wolford pursued the enemy. Finding that he had crossed the mountains, we returned. On the next day I was ordered to return by the way of Jamestown. On Wednesday, May 6, I commenced recrossing the Cumberland, which was now very high from heavy rains. With only one small, half. rotten boat, that would transport only five horses at a time, I found it tedious to cross. I was all Thursday and Friday swimming horses, crossing wagons, & c. On Saturday morning crossed artillery. Hearing of a desperate band of guerrillas, and finding a guide who knew of their whereabouts, some 8 miles from the river, and having the infantry (unemployed) to cover the crossing of the cavalry, artillery, & c., I determined to send a strong party of 100 men against them, believing I would do a good service by breaking up the band. I sent the party under command of Captain Wiltsie, of the Twentieth Michigan Infantry, assisted by Captain Wil. son, with his company (M), Twelfth Kentucky Cavalry, and Captain Searcy and his company (L), Ninth Kentucky Cavalry; in all, amount- ing to 104 men. They arrived at their destination Saturday morning and seized some 12 desperate men. About 2 p. m. they were charged by a body of cavalry numbering some 250 or 300 men, which proved to be Major-General Morgans advance guard. Our men fell back in two parties, one down the big road, toward the Narrows, and the other, under Captain Wiltsie, and 49 men, toward the river. The first party got to the Narrows about sunset, after some fighting, losing 1 officer wounded and taken prisoner and 2 men killed. Captain Wiltsies party were repeatedly charged, and never fell back in front until about to be surrounded, when they would fall back and take a new position. Three times they charged the enemy and drove them. Captain [Joseph] Chenault, 2 lieutenants, 4 sergeants, and not less than 25 or 30 men of the enemy were killed and wounded. I heard of this about 5 p. in., and immediately crossed the river with most of the Twentieth Michigan Infantry, and sent word to Lieutenant.Colonel Boyle, commanding theNiuth Kentucky Cavalry, and Lieutenant.Colonel Holeman, commanding the Twelfth Kentucky Cavalry, to come over at once with two battalions, leaving the rest to guard the horses each of their respective commands. Lieutenant-Colonel Holeman joined me with two battalions; Lieutenant-Colonel Boyle thought best (which I sanctioned), as he heard that the enemy was crossing at Rowena, not to come over. I ordered him to send scouts to obtain information from the different crossing places and keep a vigilant lookout Page 301 CHAP. XXXV.] EXPEDITION TO MONTICELLO, KY., ETC. 301 At daylight I visited, with Lieutenant-Colonel iloleman, Lieutenant- Colonel Smith, of the Twentieth Michigan Infantry, and Major Rue, vol- unteer aide from the Ninth Kentucky Cavalry, and others, the advance pickets. On Sunday [10th], at 8 a. in., the enemy drove in the advance picket. I ordered the men to cover themselves as well as possible, and fire slowly and deliberately, we occupying a strong position in the Narrows of Horseshoe Bottom. This continued some four hours, when I ordered one piece of cannon to be crossed over the river, being, determined to discover the numbers and intention of the enemy. The other piece I ordered to the top of a hill, on the other side of the river, in order to cover our retreat if it became necessary; also all men on the north side of the river to be held in readiness to secure the same thing. At 3.15 oclock, after seven hours and fifteen minutes skirmishing, I got one piece of artillery in position. I then massed most of the Twen- tieth Michigan Infantry and one battalion of the Twelfth Kentucky Cav- alry (dismounted), and armed with carbines, and ordered them when the cannon opened on the enemy to charge them. The fight instantly became terrific. Our men, led on by their gallant officers, charged on a house and lot by which the enemy were covered, and carried every- thing before them. Finding the enemy had made a fortress of the house, I had it shelled. It became a hand-to-hand contest, and we drove them gallantly over a quarter of a mile, when Morgan arrived with seven fresh regiments, but, fortunately, his battery still behind, and immediately precipitated them upon us. Before the overwhelming mass, of at least ten to one, our men had to retire from the open field to the cover of the timber in the Narrows. It was then that the one piece of artillery was of signal service. The enemy advanced, not in line, but in masses, and I had shell after shell thrown into their midst until they scattered in every direction. The men being exhausted, some having been in two days fight with nothing to eat since the day before, and convinced of the overwhelming force of the enemy, and having fought ten times our number for forty- five minutes~ I determined to retreat. We quietly did so, retiring the 450 men who had been in the fight, and advancing the reserve of 125 men of dismounted Twelfth Kentucky Cavalry, under command of Cap- tain Harrison. The men marched deliberately and in the best order to the river, 3 miles distant. I retired with the men, to bend every effort to have them crossed as rapidly as possible. While doing so, a messenger, Lieutenant-Colonel Holeman, came in and informed me that Captain [William J.] Davis, Ma,jor-General Morgans adjutant-general, had come in under flag of truce, to demand my unconditional surrender. I sent word back by Lieu- tenant-Colonel Holeman that Iwould never surrender while there was a shot in the locker. In the mean time, Morgan becoming impatient, with- drew his flag of truce, and said he would move directly upon our lines. Captain Harrison, commanding reserve of 125 men, sent him word to let himself in. Lieutenant-Colonel Boyle, who had. come up during the fight, conducted the retreat of the reserve (he being ranking officer) with marked ability, judgment, and coolness. Lieutenant-Colonel Hole- man was with him. Leaving three men, an advance picketwho were within conversational distance of the enemys picketas a sacrifice, he quietly withdrew. Marching slowly and deliberately to the river, we soon crossed them to the opposite side, where they were perfectly secure. The cannon, with the horses, had previously been crossed and put in position to secure retreat. The three pickets of Company B, Twelft Page 302 302 KY., MID. AND E. TENN., N. ALA., AND SW. VA. [CHAP. XXXV. Kentucky Cavalry, under charge of Sergeant [Joseph W.] Dexter, find- ing that our men had retired, took deliberate aim at the enemys pickets, and then darted over the hill, fighting as they ran, and succeeded in making good their escape. Where every one, from the highest officer under command to the hum- blest private, behaved with the most distinguished gallantry, it may appear invidious to mention names. J will, however, mention such as came under my immediate observation. Lieutenant-Colonel iloleman, commanding the charge, being ranking officer and the commander of the Twelfth Kentucky Cavalry, cheered the men on to their work of death, and wherever the fight was most dangerous there he could be found. I found his counsel and aid during the whole time of the utmost service. Lieutenant-Colonel Smith, commanding the Twentieth Michigan Infan- try, executed his orders promptly, and with great coolness and bravery. Maj. Byron M. Cutcheon led the Twentieth Michigan infantry in the charge, and behaved with great gallantry. Major Rue, of the Ninth Kentucky Cavalry, my volunteer aide, deserted my side by the artillery, but only to assume command of the left wing, and did the most daring and gallant fighting, leading and cheering the men on. Captaiu Wil- son, of the Twelfth Kentucky Cavalry, rushed into the midst of the enemy and laid many a man low with his ilenry rifle. Capt. John Por- ter, of the Twentieth Michigan, captured a prisoner and secured him in the thickest of the fight. Major Delfosse, of the Twelfth Kentucky Cavalry, had his hat shot from his head, and behaved with the utmost bravery, as did also Captain Grant, of the Twentieth Michigan. Cap- tain Sims worked his gun with great skill. Lient. II. W. Shafer did the most rapid and accurate firing, carrying death and destruction to the enemy. If there was any cowardice I did not see or hear of it. The men of Michigan, Indiana, and Kentucky vied with each other in daring deeds, and men never fought better. Captains Wiltsie, Wilson, Allen, and Searcy, I am informed, fought with great skill and bravery in Satur- days fight. Dr. [S. B.] Littlepage, of the Twelfth Kentucky Cavalry; Dr. [W. W.] Payne, of the Twentieth Michigan, and Dr. [W.] Bailey, of the Ninth Kentucky Cavalry, were earnest in their efforts to attend to the suffer- ings of the wounded. The killed, wounded, and missing of the Twentieth Michigan Infantry is 26 in both fights; of the Twelfth Kentucky Cavalry, 10; the Ninth Kentucky Cavalry (not in the Sundays fight) lost 6 in the Saturdays. I do not know the loss of the enemy, but I think it very heavy. We had 450 men in the fight, and fought Major-General Morgan, with nine regiments, for forty-five minutes, and then crossed the deep river with only one small boat, a few canoes, and a half-broken, half-sunken gunnel, floored, an(l a half a foot of water on it. The enemy did not follow us. No one, not knowing the topography of the country and the situation of our respective forces, can appreciate the difficulties of our position and the success of our retreat. By your order, we have fallen back here; also by your order I re- spectfully submit the report of the expedition, of the trip to Monticello, and the fights of Saturday and Sunday. Respectfully, - RICHARD T. JACOB, Brigadier-General MANSON, Colonel, Commanding Brigade. Lebanon, Ky Page 303 CHAP. XXXV.] EXPEDITION TO MONTICELLO, KY., ETC. 303 ADDENDA. GENERAL: Since writing the above report, a citizen, whose veraci,ty is vouched for, and who lives in the neighborhood of the battle-ground, says, to his own personal knowledge, there were over 100 of the enemy buried. Estimating the wounded in the small proportion of three to one, we would have 300, or a total of 400, and within 50 of being equal to all we had in the fight. Respectfully, RICHARD T. JACOB, Colonel, Commanding Brigade. Brigadier-General MANSON. No. 6. Report of Cot. David Morrison, Seventy-ninth New York Infantry, com manding First Brigade, First Division, Ninth Army Corps. HDQRS. 1ST BRIG., 1ST DIv., 9TH ARMY CORPS, Columbia, Ky., May 21, 1863. CAPTAIN: By Lieutenant Berry, acting aide-de-camp, I have the honor to forward tn-monthly report for May 20; a report by Lieutenant- Colonel Smith, commanding Twentieth Michigan, of a fight between his command and Morgans men beyond the Cumberland, and a letter with Somerset postmark, addressed to you, which has been sent here. It gives me great pleasure to report the gallant conduct of the Twen- tieth Michigan in the late fight at the Narrows. Both officers and men have earned for themselves a splendid reputation. Although they were under fire about eight hours, and all of that time engaged by a vastly superior force of the enemy, the loss of the Twentieth was less than 30 in killed, wounded, and missing. There were several regiments of rebels engaged, and one of them in particular lost in killed and wounded 150 men. This I have from undoubted authority. I can only account for the comparatively small loss of the Twentieth by the superior position which that regiment occupied, and by the advantage which was taken of that position. The brigade has been anxiously awaiting the advent of the gallant General John [H.] Morgan, who has said he will burn this place. Morgans men have stolen a number of horses within 8 miles of Columbia, but still keep at a respectful distance from the brigade. Morgan has about 6,000 men, with seven field pieces. Should he come on, I hope the First Brigade will give a good account of itself. I wish I had a battery at this point; it is very much wanted. I en- gaged to build a bridge over Green River (the bridge burned by Mor- gan on January 1). This, I hope, will be completed in a very short timeL and in a creditable manner. The bridge requires to be of a single span, 160 feet from pier to pier. Trains will cross to-morrow, but it will take some time to complete the xvork. The health of the command is good, and discipline all that could be desired. I have the honor to be, captain, very respectfully, your obedient servant, DAVID MORRISON, Colonel, Commanding Brigade. Capt. GEORGE A. HICKS, Assistant Adjutant-General, First Division Page 304 304 KY., MID. AND E. TENN., N. ALA., AND SW. VA. [CHAr. XXXV. Ko. 7. Report of Lient. Cot. W. Huntington Smith, Twentieth Michigan Infantry. HEADQUARTERS TWENTIETH MICHIGAN INFANTRY, Columbia, Ky., May 12, 1863. COLONEL: I hereby submit to you my report of the duties performed by this regiment from Tuesday, April 28, to May 12, 1~63, inclusive, being the time we were detached from the brigade, which is as follows: Tuesday, April 28.Agreeably to your order of this date, I marched from the brigade at Green River toward Columbia, where it was in- tended we should do provost duty, protecting citizens and property, and arresting all armed citizens, and report to your headquarters. Having already marched about 12 miles, I continued on the road for about 2~ miles, when I halted for the night. Wednesday, April 29.At about 2 a. m. I received your order of this date (1 a. in.), in which we were instructed to leave at Columbia our teams and knapsacks; to proceed from there in light marching order, with three days rations, to Greasy Creek, by way of Jamestown, to re-enforce Colonel Jacob, and to be accompanied by Captain Sims battery. I was to move by forced marches and to march by daybreak. I marched by 6 oclock, arriving at Columbia at 10 a. in., a distance of 10 miles. At Columbia we stored our baggage, knapsacks, & c., getting dinner and providing the rations, marching at 2 p. in., making 10 mi1es~ We bivouacked for the night. Thursday, April 30.Marched at 7 a. in., after first having mustered the regiment for pay. Arrived at Jamestown at 1 p. in.; distance, 8 miles. Passing through this place, I marched directly to the top of the bluff, at the ferry over the Cumberland River, at the mouth of Greasy Creek, arriving at about 4 oclock; distance, 5 miles. Friday, May 1.Remained on the bluff until afternoon, when at 2.30 p. m. I received the following order: CAMP AT MOUTH OF GREASY CREEK, , 1863. Lieutenant.Colonel SMITH, Commanding Twentieth Michigan Volunteer8: Sin: I have just been ordered at once with the whole command to the support of General Carter. You will march your men immediately down the hill to the ferry landing. Please inform Captain Sims to move down the battery. RICHARD T. JACOB, Colonel, Commanding. At 3 oclock my command was in motion down the hill to the ferry, and was detained there until about 9 oclock in the evening before re- ceiving the boat to carry my men over, all of which, however, we suc- ceeded in accomplishing at about 1 oclock in the morning. Moving forward about 2 miles into the Narrows, we bivouacked for the nighL Saturday, May 2.Marched at 7.30 oclock for Monticello, passing through a thickly wooded and uneven country. Arrived there at 3.30 p. in., a distance of 13 miles. The enemy had been driven out the pre. ceding afternoon by General Carter. Sunday, May 3.Remained quiet all day. Monday, May 4.Continued in camp. Tuesday, May 5.Received orders to march back to the ferry on the Cumberland, at the mouth of Greasy Creek, at 10 oclock, and marched at 11 oclock through a most drenching storm of rain and over roads ankle-deep with mud. Arrived at the commenceineut of the Narrow Page 305 CHAP. XXXV.] EXPEDITION TO MONTICELLO, KY., ETC. 305 at about 5 p. in., having marched 11 miles. Here we encamped for the night. Wednesday, May 6.Marched this morning at 6 oclock down to the river, but were ordered to wait and cross over last, the cavalry having arrived and occupied the boat during the day. Thursday, ]IIay 7.Waited all day for crossing. Friday, iJilay 8.Waited all day for crossing. & tturday, May 9.The artillery commenced crossing. At 10 oclock on the evening of the 8th, Colonel Jacob sent out a scout- ing party of 100 men, under command of Capt. W. D. Wiltsie, of my regiment, for the purpose of breaking up a band of guerrillas near the distillery of Alcorns, of which number I furnished 60 men, with instruc- tions to return to the regiment by 12 m. Saturday. For full particulars of the doings of this party, I refer to Captain Wiltsies report, attached. The same night I sent out Captain Barnes with his command about 2 miles to the farther end of the Narrows as a support to the scout- ing party, we already having two companies (A and ID) on picket at this end of the Narrows. At 3 p. m. of Saturday I had all my men over the river except those of the scouting party and the companies (A, C, and ID) on picket duty. These companies were ordered to fall back to the river as soon as the party returned. At 4 oclock word came that our pickets were being attacked. I im- mediately communicated the same to Colonel Jacob, who had crossed the river. Also ordered a detachment of 100 men from my regiment to recross the river, which was quickly done. Major Cutcheon in the mean time went to the front to see to the men already there, taking the scattered forces of Grant, Allen, Dewey, and Carpenter, and placing them on a commanding position, on the top of a hill. Captain Barnes, with his men, advanced down the road about 2 miles on the first intima- tion of the attack, which was a great support to Captains Allen and Car- penter, with each a few men, as. they had been cut off from Captain Wiltsie and his party, but fighting their way back most manfully. Cap~ tam Barnes then returned to his original position, holding everything~ quiet for the night except a slight cavalry attack upon his pickets, which was easily repulsed with the assistance of such as had been sent to him from our own regiment and from the Twelfth Kentucky Cavalry. At about 8 a. m. the enemy vigorously attacked our pickets with dis- mounted cavalry, and, after a brisk resistance for fifteen minutes, drove them in upon the mainline. I immediately brought forward Companies F, G, and I, which were in reserve, and established the line as follows: Company F was deployed as skirmishers along a wooded ravine on the right, to prevent that fiajik froni being turned. Companies C and K were massed behjud the crest of a small hill to the right of the main woods, while Companies A and ID were massed in a similar manner be- hind a fence on the crest of a high hill to the left. These were to hold the road and prevent a cavalry dash. Companies B and E held the contin- uiation of the fence to the left, and the extreme left was held by a bat- talion of the Twelfth Kentucky Cavalry, dismounted. Companies land LI were in reserve at the foot of the hill, in rear of the center. At ~bout 4 p. m. one piece of Captain Sims (Twenty-fourth Indiana) batte,ry arrived upon the ground and took position on an eminence on the extreme left. Companies B, I, and LI were ordered forward to support the gun. The gun immediately opened a rapid and well- directed fire upon the house, orchard, and woods, in which the rebels were massed. At the same time a charge was ordered along the whole 20 R UVOL XXIIJ~ PT Page 306 306 KY., MID. AND E. TENN., N. ALA., AND SW. VA. [OHAP. XXXV. line, which was executed in a most gallant manner, clearing the enemy from the house, orchard, and fences, where they had lain during the day, and driving them into the woods. We were soon met by a counter- charge in such immensely superior numbers that we were obliged to fall back to our former position, which was held with the greatest ob- stinacy for three-fourths of an hour, when, the men being exhausted with the unequal contest and the long abstinence from food and sleep, it was deemed prudent to withdraw to the north side of the Cumber- land, which was done without loss or accident. I take great pleasure in saying that not a company of this regiment but conducted itself in a brave and courageous manner, and all seemed over-anxious to be the first in and the last out of the fight. We crossed the river without any confusion or accident, completing the same by 7 oclock, and bivouacked for the night on a bluff commanding the ferry. Monday, ]IIay 11.At 11 a. m. I received orders to move back to Columbia, and commenced doing so at 12 in., under a very hot sun. Marched 13 miles, and bivouacked for the night. On the way we met the Seventeenth Michigan coming to our aid. Tuesday, May 12.Marched at 6 oclock, arriving at Columbia at 10.30 a. m. Here we joined our brigade, and received our camp equipments and baggage. I have to report, with regret, the loss of several excellent officers during the skirmish of Saturday and the fight of Sunday, consisting of Lieut. W. M. Greene, of Company A, killed on Sunday (he was an officer highly esteemed by his men and much respected by his associate officers); also Lieut. Clement A. Lonusberry, of Company I, wounded severely in the thigh on Saturday, while returning to the regiment from the. party of scouts; and Lient. H. V. Knight, of Company H, taken prisoner with several soldiers of the scouting party. I append a list of the casualties that occurred, as follows: Killed, 4; wounded, 18; missing, 6. Total, 28. All of which is respectfully submitted. W. HUNTINGTON SMITH, Lieutenant- Colonel, Commanding Regiment. Col. ID. MORRISON, Commanding First Brigade, First Division, Ninth Corps. ADDENDA. HEADQUARTERS TWENTIETH MICHIGAN INFANTRY, Columbia, Ely., May 15, 1863. COLONEL: Being in haste at the time of concluding my official re- port of the affairs of Saturday and Sunday, the 9th and 10th instant, I neglected to speak as I should have done of the conduct of the offi- cers of my regiment. Where all were cool and active it is almost im- possible to specify particular instances. I cannot refrain, however, from mentioning the names of Captains Barnes, Grant, Wiltsie, Allen, Dewey, Carpenter, and Porter, and of Lieutenant Bullis; also Major Cutcheon, for his bravery, daring, and activity in the discharge of his duties. All deserve mention, but these attracted my attention in particular. All the officers and men vied with each other in their efforts to merit well of their country and of their commander. I have the honor to be, your obedient servant, W. HUNTINGTON SMITH, Lieutenant- Colonel, Commanding Twentieth Michigan Volunteers. Col. ID. MORRISON, Commanding Brigade Page 307 CHAP. XXXV.] EXPEDITION TO MONTICELLO, KY., ETC. 307 No. 8. Report of Gapt. Wendell D. Wiit8ie, Twentieth Michigan Infantry. CAMP AT GUEE~S FERRY, Oumberland River, Ky., May 11, 1863. SIR: I have the honor to report that, on the 8th instant, J received orders from Colonel Jacob, c onimanding at this post, to proceed, with a force of 100 men, to where a band of guerrillas, under the notorious [Champ.] Ferguson, was supposed to be lurking in the mountains be- tween here and Monticello, ai~d, if possible, to discover and break it np. I accordingly took 25 men of my own company (H), under Lieutenant McCollum; 30 from Companies B, F, G, I, and K, all picked men, under Captain Allen- a company of 28 men, nuder Captain Searcy, of the Ninth Kentuck~y Cavalry, and a company of Henry Rifles (27), under Captaiu Wilson, Twelfth Kentucky Cavalry, all dismounted, and moved from the river at 9 p. ni. At the Narrows, where Captain Barnes was stationed with his com- pany as a reserve force, I left the Monticello road on our right, and pro- ceeded by mountain paths to Harmons Creek; thence back to the road at Alcorns, which is 9 miles from the ferry and 7 from Monticello. From here we proceeded south to Beaver Creek, and returned to Alcorns at 2 p. m. of Saturday, the 9th instant, not having met any armed force, but capturing in all 12 prisoners and 5 horses, supposed to belong to the band we were in search of, and burning Alcorns distillery, which was a lurking place for bushwhackers. Here we rested for dinner, the men being very much exhausted, having been almost continually on the march from the time we started over steep mountainsdifficult both in ascent and descentthrough creeks and ravines, with wet feet and without food or sleep. My first instructions were to return to camp by 12 m. Saturday; but ~ tomake, and that it was impossible to do any important part of the work allotted me, I early in the morning dispatched a messenger to Colonel Jacob, to inform him of what I had already done, and to ask an extension of time until 4 p. in., when, if not prevented by an enemy, I would arrive in camp. Colonel Jacob granted my request, and I proceeded to com- plete my task. When my messenger returned, I should not fail to state that he informed me that rebel cavalry had been seen on the road be- tween me and the reserve at the Narrows. I immediately took the pre- caution to send Captain Carpenter, with 24 men, back 2 miles on the main road to a cross-road, to be within striking distance should Captain Allen, who had gone a short distance back in the mountains with 9 men to examine a ravine and rock house, be attacked, and at the same time to keep a strict watch over the roads. We had not rested at Alcorns more than half an hour when my pickets toward Monticello were furiously attacked by rebel cavalry, whom we at first supposed to be guerrillas, but who were Morgans ad- vance guard of 300 men. They dismounted instantly upon receiving the first fire, and attempted to surround us under cover of the woods. Upon hearing the alarm shots, I immediately threw Company II into the road with fixed, bayonets, and the cavalry under Captain Wilson forward to the support of the pickets, while Lieutenant Knight, with 6 men, was left to guard the prisoners, all of whom were probably taken prisoner before getting away from Alcorns house. I very soon dis- covered that, while I could keep the enemy from advancing in front Page 308 308 KY., MID. AND E. TENN., N. ALA., AND SW. VA. [CHAP. XXXN. my force was too small, having only about 40 men present, to keep him back on the flanks, and that I would certainly be surrounded if I did not hastily retire. I accordingly fell back through their lines, and brought them, by so doing, immediately in our front again. We were pressed so hotly from the onset by such superior numbers that it was impossible to take our prisoners to the rear, so they all escaped except one, who was taken along by Captain Carpenter, and we only brought in 2 of the horses. When we gained the cover of the woods on the north side of the road we made a stand, and, though the ~ out- numbered us eight to one, and came down shouting, Give the Yankee sons of bs no quarter, they could not drive us from our position except as they were about to flank us. We repeatedly drove them, and at one charge, the last we made, swept them clean from the wood5. At this period they retired to remount, leaving only a few skirmishers to harass us. Finding my men suffering from excessive thirst and great exhaustion, I ordered them to fall back, which they did in good order, to a strong and safe position, where we rested until midnight. Having lost my guide, and not being familiar with the country, I found great difficulty in getting out to the road. About daylight, however, we struck a mountain road, which, from its course, I judged would lead us out of the wilderness, and which we followed until we discovered in the path before us about 50 men, whom we knew, from their peculiar dress, were rebel soldiers. Being too weak to engage them, we returned and retreated to the river, where we found a raft; embarked, cut it loose, and floated down to the ferry, reaching camp at 4 p. in., having been out forty-three hours. Upon hearing guns Captain Carpenter immediately started to my assistance, but was met on the way by rebel cavalry, which he gal- lantly repulsed. Deeming it impossible to re-enforce me, however, he fell back on the road until met by Captains Barnes and Allen. Upon consultation it was deemed prudent for Captain Barnes to fall rapidly back and hold the Narrows, while Captain Allen, with his whole de- tachment, would fall back leisurely. Before Captain Allen reached the reserve post, the rebel cavalry dashed down upon him in great force, but were unable to rout him. He was compelled, however, to fall back, which he did in good order until he reached the reserve, the rebels not caring to press very hard after him. In the last engagement Captain Allen lost 1 man killed, 1 officer (Lieutenant [C. A.] Lonusberry) wounded and prisoner, and 1 missing. In the first encounter Lieutenant McCollum lost 1 killed, and Lieuten- ant Knight and 1 man taken prisoner, and I missing. The companies of Kentucky Cavalry lost 2 killed, 1 wounded, and 6 missing. I cannot speak too highly of the conduct of both officers and men engaged in this terribly unequal strife. That 40 men held 300 at bay for over two hours and finally drove them back, or that 30 should repulse 250, shows with what determined bravery they stood, and with what desperate energy they fought. While I must speak of the conduct of all in terms of highest praise, I am forced by conviction of what appears to me to be largely his due, to mention the name of Sergt. A. A. Day, - Company H, who stood foremost in the fight, where the bullets rained through the whole of the engagement. Allow me, sir, to recommend him to your favorable notice. During the whole engagement at Alcorns, I was nobly supported by Captain Wilson, of the Henry Hifles (Twelfth Kentucky Cavalry), and Captain Searcy, of the Ninth Kentucky Cavalry, both of whom were heroes in the fight. The enemy reports a large umuber killed an Page 309 CHAr. XXXV.I EXPEDITION TO MONTICELLO, KY., ~TC. 309 wounded in the engagement of Saturday, and among the killed a number of valuabe officers. I am, sir, very respectfully, your obedient and humble servant, W. D. WILTSJE, Captain, Commanding Scouting Party. Lient. Col. WILLIAM H. SMITH, Commanding Twentieth Regiment ]Iliicliigan Volunteers. No. 9. Reports of Brig. Gen. Samuel P. ~iJarter, U. S. Army, commanding Fourth Division, Ninth Army Corps. LEXINGTON, Ky., April 29, 1863. GENERAL: The following are the particulars of Carters dispatch: MOUTH OF FISHING CREEK, 29th. General WILLOOX: I had 300 mounted men across the river yesterday p. m~ They found about 150 rebels, and drove them to within 2~ miles of Monticel}~o; captured 4 prisoners. In returning, one of the Forty-fifth Ohio was drowned. Most of the horses made to swim. The river is 4 inches higher this morning. I shall move up toward Waitsborough. Have scouted men np river in search of boats to bring to that point. Have heard nothing from Colonel Jacob. Do yon de- sire me to send him re-enforcements ~? Rebels cant cross river below this without boats. The officer in charge of detachment over river reports rebels were strength- ened on the 27th by a Georgia regiment of cavalry, 900 strong, and that they have infantry at Livingston. Pegrams forces are between Albany and Monticello. They are bringing ammuni- tion to Monticello, but sending provisions to some point in rear. Our cavalry cannot be foraged here; the conntry is stripped. CARTER. 0. B. WILLOOX, Brigadier- General. Maj. Gen. AMBROSE E. BURNSIDE. LEXINGTON, iVilay 2, 18638.55 a. m. GENERAL: The following just received from near Monticello: MAY 111 p. m. We drove the enemy through the town and beyond it in gallant style. We en- countered them again 4 miles south of Monticello, near forks of road, one party on ~lbany road and one on Jamestown road, the latter trying to cut off our communica- tion with the rear. We drove the enemy about 3 miles on Albany and about 5 ~r 7 on Jamestown roads. Rebel loss, as far as discovered, 5 killed, more wounded, and a number of prisoners, and 2 commissioned officers. No loss on our side. Both men and officers behaved well. I shall remain here until to-morrow. I am waiting instructions. Answer. CARTER. 0. B. WJLLCOX, Brigadier- General. Maj. Gen. AMBROsE E. BURNSIDE. LEXINGTON, May 3, 186310.35 a. m. GENERAL: The following just received: MONTICELLO, May 28.30 p. m. Your dispatch received 7.30 p. m. Reconnoitering parties went out on different roads. The one on Albany road, just in, reports that they went within 7 miles o Page 310 310 KY., MID. AND E. TENN., N. ALA., AND SW. VA. [CHAP. XXXV~ Albany. The rebels passed through Albany without halting, eu route for Livingston, in great haste and confusion last night. They acknowledge to be whipped badly. They carried their wounded with them. Another party of rebels went on Jacb~son road to Livingston in similar confusion. Colonel Jacob with his command arrived here this p. m. As soon as our wagons come up we may be able to forage our cavalry around this place for a short time. Troops conld be supplied here by establishing a depot at Somerset, Ky. My intentions were at first to move on Albany, but as no rebels are there I will remain here for the present, unless you direct otherwise. CARTER. 0. B. WILLOOX. Maj. Gen. AMBROSE E. BURNSIDE. LEXINGTON, illzfay 7, 1863. GENERAL: The following just received: WAITSBOnOtTGH, May 68.10 p. m. It is with much regret that I have to report the loss of nearly 30 of the Twenty- seventh New Jersey this p. in., by the upsetting of a ferry-boat while crossing the river. The accident occurred before I reached the river. The infantry, battery, ambulances, and a part of a train are now on the north side. Cavalry will cross to- morrow. River is pretty full and rising. It is rising fast. Expect to send a boat in the morning to Greasy Creek for Colonel Jacob. CARTER. 0. B. WILLOOX, Brigadier- General. Maj. Gem AMBROSE E. BITRNSIDE. No. 10. Report of Gol. Samuel A. Gilbert, Forty-fourth Ohio Infantry, command ing Second Brigade. LEXINGTON, Kr., Nay 12, 1863. Following just from Gilbert: LONDON, l2th9 a. m. I returned from Cumberland Ford last night. Captain Moore, with 100 of the Forty- fourth, pursued 300 rebels, under Lieutenant-Colonel [M. T.] Pryor, up the Red Bird, and attacked them at Phillips Fork on Sunday morning. They fled at the first fire. Captain Moore pursued for several miles, and captured some small-arms and other plunder, but his horses were not fresh enough to catch them. He reports several were wounded. He reports that they have been stripping the citizens of not only horses and provisions, but even of their clothing, and that they had put some to torture to make them tell where their horses and arms were hid. After being driven from Red Bird, a part of them came down Straight Creek. I heard of it yesterday morning when near Cumberland Ford, and sent a detachment of the Forty-fourth, under Lieu- tenant Shaw, after them. No report from him since. Those creeks are so shut in between the mountains that there is but little chance to get around these rascals so as to capture them. My scouts were in Cumberland Gap on Saturday, and confirm the statements of deserters. There are three regiments of infantry, two battalions of cavalry, and a detachment of artillery at the Gap. My advanced posts are at points on the Cumberland River between Williamsburg and ~nmberland Ford. Major Ham- ilton is at Manchester. I have directed him to send to Mount Vernon for supplies. Will send you a report of the width of Cumberland- River at Williamsburg to- morrow. I shall return to Mount Vernon to-day. SAMUEL A. GILBERT, Colonel, Commanding. 0. B. WILLOOX. Maj. Gen. AMBROSE E. BURNSIDE Page 311 Cuip. XXXV.] EXPEDITION TO MONTICELLO, KY., ETC. 311 No. 11. Reports of Maj. Gen. Dabney H. Maury, C. S. Army, commanding De- jpartment of East Tennessee. HEADQUARTERS Ii~EPARTMENT OF EAST TENNESSEE, Knoxville, May 4, 1863. GENERAL: On Friday, the 1st instant, the enemys cavairyand mounted infantry, reported to number twelve regiments, forced our cavalry bank from Albany and Monticello. In consequence of the inabilty to procure supplies in the inter~ening country, General [John] Pegram reports that he has been compelled to fall back as far as Clinton, Tenn. On the 2d instant, a cavalry force of the enemy, reported at 1,000, which had crossed Northern Alabama from Corinth, Miss., burned the railroad depot, & c., at Gadsden, Al a., and moved on toward Rome, threatening the Georgia Railroad. General [N. B.] Forrest is in pur- suit of them. [A. E.] Burnsides advanced infantry and cavalry are reported to have been at Williamsburg (on the Cumberland River) and Somerset on the 1st instant; his main force and his headquarters at Crab Orchard. The force in this department is entirely inadequate to meet an inva- sion such as seems threatened. The effective total of the infantry force is 7,879, with about 5,000 cavalry. Not more than 5,000 of the infantry are available for a movement. I therefore submit this letter to the Department, in order that it may decide whether the necessities of the service elsewhere will admit of large additional forces being sent here, for unless they are sent soon it is altogether probable that Burnside will successfully invade East Ten- nessee. I venture to suggest that in re-enforcing East Tennessee it is desirable that no Tennessee troops be sent here. Very respectfully, general, your obedient servant, DABNEY II. MAURY, General ~. COOPER, Major.General, Commanding. Adjutant and inspector General, Richmond, Va. P. 3.A copy of the above has been sent direct to General Cooper. HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF EAST TENNESSEE, Knoxville, May 5, 1863. COLONEL: I have already reported that the cavalry forces under Colonels [J. J.] Morrison and [D. W.] Chenault have evacuated Clinton and Wayne Counties. General [John] Pegram reports that from the barren nature of the intervening region he has decided to retire to Clin. ton, Teun. I have directed him, if practicable, to take his command back into Clinton and Wayne Counties and to drive the enemy out. I can only increase his force by infantry. I hope Colonel Chenaults force will be placed under General Pegrams orders for the movement, and as the enemy is reported to be in considerable strength, and to have sup- ports not far off, any additional cavalry which General Bragg can send is desirable Page 312 312 KY., MID. AND E. TENN., N. ALA., AND SW. VA. [CHAr. XXXV. General [A.] Gracie Ejr.] thinks the demonstrations of the enemy, who are reported to him to be at London and Manchester in force, threaten Cumberland Gap, so that he has been compelled to retain Colonel [John IR.] Harts, the only cavalry regiment with which I could re-enforce Gen- eral Pegram. Unless I can reoccupy the line of the Cumberlaud River, I shall have, on account of the nature of the intervening country, to draw my cavalry back to the line of the Clinch River. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, DABNEY H. MAURY, ]lJiajor- General, Commanding. Col.~ B. S. EWELL, Assistant Adjutant- General, Department of the West. No. 12. Reports of ]lliaj. Gen. Simon B. Buelcner, C. S. Army, commanding Depart ment of East Tennessee. KNOXVILLE, May 15, 1863. GENERAL: On the 10th, Morgan drove the enemy across the Cum- berland at Horseshoe Bend. He was at Monticello on the 11th. He reports Federals at Somerset, Columbia, Carthage, Glasgow, and Leba- non in force; also a large force on Greasy Creek, beyond the Cumber- land. Pegram reports from Monticello on the 12th: Brigadier-General Carter, commanding Federals, south of the Cumberland, at one time numbering fourteen regiments, mostly mounted. Their tents arrived on the 4th, but a mail arrived on the 5th, and immediately the enemy reerossed the river in haste, taking the Somerset road. Supposed reason is the news from Fredericksburg. Pegram reports enemy as follows: Three regiments, nuder Wolford, at Somerset; about 4,000 near Jamestown, Ky., and two brigades at mouth of Greasy Creek. S. B. BUCKNER, ]Ifajor- General, Commanding. General S. COOPER, Adjutant and Inspector General. HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF EAST TENNESSEE, Knoxville, Teun., May 15, 1863. SIR: I transmit, for your information, copies of letters just received from Brigadier-Generals [John] Pegram and [J. H.] Morgan, from which you will perceive that the enemy have been driven north of the Cum- berland River, in the direction of Somerset and Columbia, Ky. Respectfully, your obedient servant, S. B. BUCKNER, ]lfajor- General, Commanding. General S. COOPER, Adjutant and Inspector General, Richmond, Va Page 313 CIL~r. XXXV.] EXPEDITION TO MONTICELLO, KY., ETC. 313 No. 13. Reports of Brig. Gen. John H. Morgan, C. S. Army. HEADQUARTERS MORGANS DIvISIoN, Sparta, May 4, 1863. MAJOR: I have the honor to forward a copy of a dispatch just re- ceived from Colonel [D. W.] Chenault: MAY 3, 1563. GENERAL: The enemy are close upon us; they are within 4 miles, and pressing us hard. Respectfully, D. W. CHENAULT, Colonel. I have ordered Colonel Cluke to send [A. 11.] Johnsons regiment from near Celina to re-enforce Colonel Chenault. tfhere are no other troops of ours in that vicinity, except a portion of Colonel [iR. C.] Morgans regiment, which has only about 200 armed men in it, and which will have to remain near Celina, in order to guard against the forces advanc- ing from TompkinsvilLe and Glasgow. Very respectfully, major, your obedient servant, JOHN H. MORGAN, Brigadier- General. Maj. E. S. BURFORD, Assistant Adjutant- General. HEADQUARTERS MORGANS DIVISION, Monticello, May 11, 1863. GENERAL: I have heard with the greatest pleasure of your appoint- ment to the command of the Department of East Tennessee. As my command is now near you, II will most cheerfully give you all the infor- mation and assistance in my power. Should you at any time need either, I trust you will not fail to call on me. I arrived here on the evening of the 9th instant. On the following day I attacked the Federals at Horseshoe Bend. Their force amounted to between 1,200 and 1,500 men and two pieces of artillery. After a brisk fight of about an hour and a half I routed them and drove them across the river, with a loss of some 135 killed, wounded, and prisoners. My own loss amounted to about 40 killed and wounded. I am ordered myself to Liberty in a few days, but my command will remain in the northern part of Clinton and the western part of this county. The force which invaded this country a few days since consisted of General [~. P.] Carters division, a cavalry brigade, under command of Colonel Jacob, and a brigade of infantry. The Federals now occupy Somerset, Columbia, Carthage, Glasgow, and Lebanon in force. There is also a large force near Greasy Creek, on the other side of the river, opposite where I fought them yesterday. As I see no prospect of .get- ting any horses in this section of the country (you know the weakness of which I have been accused by the Journal), I trust you will not take it amiss if I should pay a flying visit to your department now and the Page 314 314 KY., MID. AND E. TENN., N. ALA., AND SW. VA. [CHAP. XXXV. for the purpose of renewing my stock. Major [D. H.] Liewellyn desires to be remembered to you. With sentiments of high regard, general, your obedient servant, JOHN II. MORGAN, Brigadier- General. Maj. Gen. S. B. BUCKNER, Commanding Department of East Tennessee. P. 5.Have the kindness to give my respects to Major [R. C.] Win- tersmith, and say to him that his son was with me in the fight of yes- terday, and behaved very gallantly. ADDENDA. HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF EAST TENNESSEE, Knoxville, May 15, 1863. JOHN II. MORGAN, Brigadier- General, Commanding Cavalry: Mv DEAR GENERAL: I was much gratified at the receipt of your letter of the 1st [11th] instant this morning. I congratulate you on your success in driving the Federals, as you usually do; and congratu- late myself that you are in position to co-operate with me. I can only wish that you were permanently in command of my cav- alry; and should I have the good fortune to have you assigned to com- mand, I will so arrange it. In the mean time, I am informed that Gen- eral Pegram, at present in command of the cavalry of this department, is your senior. I feel assured, however, that, when an occasion demands it, you will heartily co-operate with General Pegram with your usual self-abnegation and regard for the public interests. With your consent, I will endeavor, at the proper time, to obtain your transfer to my de- partment. Especially would this be desirable in view of probable future movements. Please advise me of all information of importance. And I have a right on many accounts to ask your hearty co-operation with General Pegram. Truly, your friend, S. B. BUCKNEIR, Major- General, Commanding. No. 14. Report of Maj. R. ~ Bullock, Eighth Kentucky Cavalry (Confederate). , 1863. SIR: I have the honor to report that on the morning of Friday, May 8, this regiment left its encampment on Obeys River, and, swimming that stream, then considerably swollen by recent rains, proceeded on the Monticello road as far as Wolf River, where it encamped for the night. Accompanying it was the regiment of Col. D. W. Chenault. On the following morning (the 9th), this regiment in advance, the two. regiments, nuder command of Colonel [R. S.] Cluke, crossed the river and moved on the main road till within 9 miles of Monticello, when, turning to the left, they moved on by-roads toward the mouth of Greas Page 315 CHAP. XXXV.] EXPEDITION TO MONTICELLO, KY., ETC. 315 Creek, where the enemy were reported as still occupying this side of the river in some force. Arriving at Beaver Creek, the advance guard (Com- pany II), from information gained from citizens, reported about one com- pany of the enemy but a short distance in advance, having in charge a number of citizens whom they had arrested in that neighborhood. The advance were ordered to move on rapidly and close up on the enemy, and Companies I and K sent to their assistance. Arriving at the main road from Monticello to Greasy Creek, the road bore evident marks of having just been passed over by a considerable force of infantry, and the advance companies soon came upon and engaged them near the house of Alcorn. The enemy were soon dislodged from the position they had taken behind the houses, and took a path leading to the right of the main road through woods thick with large trees and brushy un- dergrowth. In addition to these obstacles to successful pursuit, the road led along a narrow ridge, closely flanked on either side by a suc- cession of deep ravines. The enemy, aware of the advantages this afforded them, made repeated stands behind the heavy timber, and, con- cealed by the leafy nndergrowth, would pour, unseen, their fire into our advancing troops. But these, never for a moment checked by their fire, moved upon each new position of the enemy, and drove them until 2 or 3 miles had been thus fought over, when the men, wearied almost to ex- haustion by their continued exertions, turned from the pursuit to their horses. Soon after this engagement began, four other companies arrived and took part. In the mean time Companies D, F, and G, under command of Captain [J. T.] Berry, in conjunction with Colonel Chenault, moved on the main road, and engaged a force of the enemy under like disadvantages and with like results. Night approaching prevented further movements, and the dead and wounded having been properly disposed, the regiment moved back to Beaver Creek, and encamped for the night. On the following morning (Sunday, the 10th) the two regiments again moved forward on the Greasy Creek road, and came upon the enemy posted on the farm of Coffey. The two regiments, dismounted, were moved up, Chenaults occupying the right and this regiment the left wing, and, after skirmishing awhile with the enemy, were ordered to remain quiet and hold their position. This was rendered necessary by the scarcity of ammunition, the regiment being from this cause totally inefficient for offensive operations. Hour after hour they lay quietly under fire of the enemys sharpshooters, only occasionally returning it because of the lack of ammunition. At length the enemy, having been re-enforced, or emboldened by our inactivity, opened on us with artillery and began to charge across the open field, but it was too late. Ammu- nition and re-enforcements had arrived, and the men, eager for the fray, scarcely awaiting the dispositions of the officers, pouring from their cover in the woods, met the enemy in a somewhat mingled and impetuous charge, and after a fierce but brief contest drove them back to Columbia. From the mingled nature of the onset, which decided the day, itis scarcely possible to tell what part this or any regiment played in the fight; but this much we can say, from knowledge, that at least a portion of it was always in the van. Our loss in the two engagements was 1 killed and 15 wounded, the greater part of which was sustained in the first days fight. B. S. BULLOCK, Major, Commanding. Capt. S. P. CuNNINGHAM, Aetg. A8st. Adjt. Gen., ,S~econd Brigade, Morgans Division Page 316 316 KY., MID. AND E. TENN., N. ALA., AND SW. VA. LCHAP.XXXV. No. 15. Reports of Cot. D. W. Chenault, Eleventh Kentucky Cavalry (Confederate). IN CAMP ON JJMTOWN ROAD, Eight miles from Monticello, April 29, 18636 a. m. As previously reported, the enemy crossed the Cumberland in force yesterday at two points. We skirmished with them until dark last night; lost no men, except 4 sick and 4 pickets. I will fall back to a point near Albany, where they cannot flank me from Burkesville, as I learn from Colonel [J. J.] Morrison that there was heavy cannonading at Celina on 28th. He is still at Albany. Major [R. S.] Bullock is with me, with Colo- nel [R. S.] Clukes regiment. Yours, in haste, D. W. CHENAULT, Colonel. General JOHN H. MORGAN. MONTICELLO, Kr., May 1, 1863. GENERAL: The enemy are on this side of the river, and pressing hard upon methree regiments of infantry and one of cavalry. Without help I shall not be able to hold this point long. I have written Colonel [J. J.] Morrison for re.enforcements. Do not know whether I will get them or not. In haste, general, yours, & e., D. W. CHEKAULT, Colonel. General JOHN II. MORGAN. [P. S.]I have only about 600 men and [John S.] Scotts two bull pups. TWELVE MILES FROM MONTICELLO, On Jimtown Road, May 1, 1863Sundown. G~ENERAL: I hasten to inform you that the enemy have driven me to this point. Early this morning Colonel [J. J.] Morrison moved up from Albany to my relief with [John] Pegrams brigade. They ambushed him, and have taken all his artillery, except the two bull pups I had with me. His forces are very much demoralized.* I shall move with all dispatch on to Livingston. Yours, in haste, D. ~. CHENAULT, tJotonel. Brig. Gen. JOHN II. MORGAN, Sparta, Tenn. CAMP NEAR OBEYS RIVER, P~fteen miles from Livingston, May 2, 1863At night. GENERAL: My scouts hare just returned. They report that the enemy followed us last night across the mountain and are encamped 4 mil~s See Brent and Mackall to Wheeler, May 5, 1863, Part II, p. 815 Page 317 CHAP. XXXV.] EXPEDITION TO MONTICELLO, KY., ETC. 317 from Albany, not over 12 or 15 miles from my camp. I do not know what their strength is, but am of opinion that they have about 5,000 in all. I am confident they intend invading East Tennessee. Very respectfully, general, your obedient servant, D. W. CHENAULT, Colonel, Commanding~ General WHEELER. IN THE FIELD, May 12, 1863. SIR: In accordance with your order, I have to report that on Saturday last II moved my regiment from Wolf River early in the morning in the direction of Greasy Creek, on the Cumberland. When near Mr. Alcorns, some 8 miles from the river. I received orders from you to come np at a donble-quick. 1 did so, and found that you had engaged the enemy, they having divided their forces and moving on two different roads. I imme- diately ordered Lieutenant-Cplonel [J. T.] Tucker, with four companies of my regiment, to support you, and with the rest I pressed upon the enemy on the main Greasy Creek road. I drove the enemy some 3 miles, not, however, without the loss of one of my most gallant and efficient officers (Capt. Joseph Chenault, of Company B), who was shot through the body, and died almost without breathing again. Capt. A. J. Bruner, of Company C, was also shot throngh the foot about the same time. This was all my loss on this part of the field. That portion of my com- mand that was sent to your assistance sustained some loss. Corporal [John] MeCiog was killed, and Orderly Sergeant [B. F.] McCoy was shot through the body and thigh, and had his leg amputated. Early on the following morning I received an order to move, with four of my companies, to the front, and engage the enemy, which order was executed by Major [James B.] McCreary, who moved down and engaged the enemy abont 8 a. in. The remainder of my regiment was ordered in line to the extreme right of the whole command. About this time the enemy opened npon us with their artillery. My men, although they had been under fire eight or ten hours without water or anything to eat, stood firm, and when overpowered and compelled to fall back, did so in good order; and when the command was given to rally and charge, did so with the most perfect coolness and gallantry, and were among the first to charge the enemy, and pursued them in advance of the whole column, until called in by General [John H.] Morgan near the river. My loss was I man killed in Sundays action and 4 wounded. My loss in both days action foots np 3 killed and 6 wounded. I have to regret the wounding of Captain [T. B.] Collins, of Company F, who acted most gallantly during the entire day, refusing to lea~ve the field (although shot through the fleshy part of the thigh) until the conflict was closed. I cannot close this report without expressing my thanks to Colonel Tucker and Major McCreary, who rendered most efficient service. To Adjutant [William L.] Hickman I am also under lasting obligations. In fact, where all did their duty it is impossible to distinguish, and therefore return my thanks to all. I am, most respectfully, your obedient servant, D. NY. CHEXAULT. Capt. S. P. CUNNINGHAM, Acting Assistant Adjutant- General, & eond Brigade Page 318 318 KY., MID. AND E. TENN., N. ALA., AND SW. VA. [CHAP. XXXV. No. 16. Reports of Brig. Gen. John Pegram, 0. ~ Army. HEADQUARTERS CAVALRY BRIGADE, Near Travisville, 1i~entress County, Tenn., May 2, 1863. SIR: On arriving at the foot of the mountain on this side, I met the brigade on the retreat. The inclosed report of Colonel [J. J.] Morrison will explain to the department commander the cause of this movement. Colonel Morrison reports that eleven regiments of the Federals are now on this side of the river. The river is fordable now at many points, being lower than for many years at this season. Under these circum- stances I have, of course, nothing left for me to do but to take the com- mand back to Clinton, where I will issue the new supply of arms to the brigade. Please have corn and rations at once sent to Clinton for me. There is no forage between here and Clinton. My command will proba- bly reach there on the night of the 4th instant. I respectfully suggest that all the cavalry in the department be placed in camps on Clinch River, near Big 4ireek Gap, and that scouts of one regiment at a time be sent over the mountains toward Williamsburg and Barboursville, to watch the movements of the enemy. I will, of course, have this road picketed as far at least as Montgomery. Iwill send information of my falling back to General [Joseph] Wheeler, for General Braggs information. Very respectfully, ~ IPEGRAM, Brigadier- General. ASSISTANT ADJUTANT-GENERAL, Department Headquarters, Knoxville. HEADQUARTERS CAVALRY BRIGADE, Near Monticello, Ky.,. May 12, 1863. SIR: On my arrival here yesterday I found that General [John H.] Morgan had taken possession of this county, having driven the enemy across the river with but slight loss to his command. General Morgan and I will agree upon some point on the river below which his command, and above which mine, will picket. The enemy had at one time on this side of the river fourteen regi- ments, consisting mostly of cavalry and mounted infantry. They were all under the command of General Samuel [P.] Carter, and were gen- erally impressed with the idea that they were en route for Knoxville. Their tents arrived here on the 4th instant, but on the 5th, just after the arrival of the mail, they packed up and rapidly went across the river, most of them taking the Somerset road. The general impression here is that this move was consequent upon the Confederate victory near Fredericksburg, especially as the Cincinnati and Louisville papers state that Hookers army is almost annihilated, and that they will be satisfied if the capital is saved. So far as is at present known, the enemy opposite this and Clinton Counties is disposed as follows: Three regiments under [Frank] Wolford at Somerset, about 4,000 at and near Jamestown, Ky., with two brigades at the mouth of Greasy Creek, opposite Horseshoe Bend. The river is not yet fordable, but is falling rapidly. By a careful ex- amination of the map, it will be evident to the department commande Page 319 CHAr. XXXY.] EXPEDITION TO MONTICELLO, KY., ETC. 319 that when the river becomes fordable all along this front it will be im- possible to hold these two counties with a small cavalry force, if the enemy makes an honest effort to take possession of it. My great difficulty is, that when I begin to fall back from here, there is no stopping between this and Warburg (supposing supplies are now being collected there), owing to the entire barrenness of the country be- tween this and that point. Hence I shall immediately attempt to col- lect forage and rations on Wolf River (6 miles south of Travisville), with the view of holding that line as long as possible. The recent trips over the mountains have well-nigh used up my horses, and it will, therefore, only be absolute necessity that will cause me to recross this on a retro- grade move. As there is no transportation about here which I can im- press, I beg that a train of ammunition be at once sent to me, so that I may use the wagons here for the purpose above indicated. I am informed by General Morgans officers and by the citizens that there is but little forage left in this county, but I shall have a thorough examination made forthwith, and will report the result to the, depart- ment commander. As by keeping Colonel [John B.] Palmers infantry slightly retired between this and Travisville, I may be able to get up the idea that there is a large infantry force following me, and thus postpone another ad- vance of the enemy, I shall retain Colonel Palmer until General Buckner desires his force to be returned to Clinton. I shall at once try to find out if the enemys main forces are moving toward the Ohio River, and will report on the subject as soon as possible. Very respectfully, JNO. PEGRAM, ASSISTANT ADJUTANT-GENERAL, Brigadier- General. Department of Fast Tennessee, Knoxville. No. 17. Report of Gol. J. J. Morrison, First Georgia Gavalry, commanding bri gade. TRAVIS[YILLE,] FENTRESS COUNTY, KENTUCKY, ilfay 2, 1863. SIR: I have the honor to report that, being at Albany, Ky., on the 1st instant with my commandconsisting of First Georgia, First Louisi- ana, First Tennessee, and Second Tennessee Regiments, Twelfth Bat- talion Tennessee, and [G. A.] iluwalds battery, numbering about 1,100 effective menI received a dispatch from Colonel [D. W.] Chenault, at Monticello, stating that he was pressed by a superior force of mounted infantry and cavalry, and required my assistance at the cross-roads 3 miles south of Monticello, which point he would hold at all hazards until I re-enforced him. I immediately sent him word to do so, and marched at once to his relief. One fork of these roads leads to Jamestown, the other to Albany, and my object was to fight the enemy here, and, if necessary, to retire down the Jamestown road, covering the retreat of my wagon train, which was at Travis[ville], on that road. On nearing our rendezvous I received a dispatch from Colonel Che- nault that the vedettes of the enemy were in sight and he had fallen back on the Jamestown road. Captain [G. W.] Day, commandin Page 320 320 KY., MID. AND E. TENN., N. ALA., AND SW. VA. [CHAr. XXXV. Twelfth Thunessee Battalion, was by this time far in advance, so I hur- ried the rest of the command on to his support, but before we reached him he was surprised by the enemy and fell back in good order to the main body. This was within 3 miles of the point at which we had pro. posed to join Colonel Chenault, and near a lane which connected with the Jamestown road, over which I sent the Second Tennessee Regiment, under Major [P. A.1 Cobb, to possess itself of the Jamestown road lower down than the point Colonel C. had deserted~ but when this regiment had entered this lane, which lay in thick woods, the enemy fell suddenly on its rear, cutting it oft~ from me, and pressed it through the woods to the Jamestown road. In the mean time I engaged the enemy sharply on the Monticello and Albany road, silencing his battery and forcing him to abandon the field, with but small loss on our side. I was deterred from pursuit by intel- ligence from Major Cobb that I would be flanked on the Jamestown road by a heavy force, which was then hotly pursuing him. Accord- ingly, after holding possession of the field half an hour, engaged in burying the dead and caring for the wounded, whom we brought off, I leisurely retired on a by-road to Travis[villeJ, where I was again in front of the enemy at daylight this morning. In the mean time I had a second dispatch from Colonel Chenault, stating that he was still on the Jamestown road, between Monticello and Travis[ville], and that he would hold his position until I arrived. I sent him word to hold it to the last extremity, and hastened on the First Ten- nessee to support him until I could bring up the rest of the command. When Colonel [James E.] Carter arrived at Travis[vifle] Colonel Che- nault had passed that point and no enemy had yet appeared. Here the whole brigade is together, and in better spirits for fighting than they were before the skirmish yesterday. My loss was but 3 men killed, 12 wounded, and I captured. It is due to the command to say that all the men and officers behaved admirably, and Huwalds battery did excellent service. I am, sir, your obedient servant, ~ J. MORRISON, Colonel, Commanding Brigade. General PEGRAM. P. S.The officer of my advance guard informs me that Colonel Che- nault fell back from our first place of meeting before the enemy appeared and without firing a gun. He left a picket, which retired with my ad- vance at sight of the enemys vedettes, they not being alone able to maintain the ground. No. 18. Report of Cot. George W. McKenzie, Fifth Tennessee Cavalry. HEADQUARTEKS, Elk Fork, Miay 1, 1863. COL& kEL: Yonr dispatch of yesterday is to hand, and contents noticed. I sent three companies this morning to the foot of Pine Mountain, with orders to send forward a scout on the Williamsburg road, even to that place, if possible. From the best information I can get, I am satisfied there is a Federal force on the opposite side of the river. As to its strength, I am not fully prepared to say. Inclosed you will find Cap Page 321 CHAP. xxxv.] SKIRMISH ON CARTFR CREEK PIKE, TENN. 321 tam [A. L.] Mims official report, which I think pretty reliable. I am fully satisfied there is a pretty considerable force. As to what the real intention is, I am not able as yet to say. I have sent four companies to Scott County this morning, for the purpose of foraging and watch- ing the movements of the enemy in that direction. I will keep you posted as well as I can as to the movements of the enemy. I will re- move the remainder of my command to the foot of the Pine Mountain this evening. Your obedient servant, Colonel, Commanding Cavalry, {c. Col. J. B. PAL~IER, Commanding Forces, ePc. No. 19. Report of Capt. A. L. hums, Ftfth Tennessee Cavalry. ELK FORK, May 1, 1863. COLONEL: On the 26th, 27th, 28th, and 29th ultimo, I proceeded from Clear Fork, via London, Ky., with the six companies designated by yon, and made the scout as directed. XVe saw no enemy, except 6 or 8, on the opposite side of the river, near Loudon, on the 27th. I heard many rumors as to the enemy, their whereabouts and intentions, but many of them are worthless, on account of the channels through which they came. From the various reports, their sources, and the manner in which they agree and disagree, 1 am inclined to think that East Tennessee or Tul- lahoma is threatened with General Buruside, who, I may safely Say, is near Crab Orchard, Ky., with his army of about 15,000 or 20,000 men, the extreme advance of which is (perhaps this force) known to be at Williamsburg and London, Ky. From various sources, some of which are entitled to credit, I learned that one brigade of infantry moved from Wild Cat into London, on the 26th nltimo, and from the same sources, nearly, I was informed that the enemys advance, composed of two regi- ments (one mounted), came in, the 26th ultimno, again as far as Wil- liamsburg, stopping on the opposite side of the river from town. This I found to be true by examination on the 28th ultimo, at which time they were still there. Their movements, I think, indicate something, and should be watched with the utmost vigilance. Very respectfully, A. L. MIMS, C~aptain, Corndg. Detachment of the Fifth Tennessee Cavalry. Col. G. W. MCKENZIE. APRIL 27, 1863.Skirmish on Carter Creek Pike, Tenn. Report of ]Jiliaj. Gen. Gordon Granger, U. S. Army. FRANKLIN, April 27, 18639.20 a. m. GENERAL: I pushed out my cavalry at 1 oclock this morning between the Columbia and Carter Creek pikes, to surprise and capture the Texas Legion, posted 8 miles from here, on the latter. Our troops reached their 21 R HVOL XXIII) PT Page 322 322 KY., MID. AND B. TENN., N. ALA., AND SW. VA. [Cnxr. XXXV. camp at daybreak, surrounded and made prisoners of the entire force, consisting of 9 commissioned officers and 112 men, 300 horses and mules, 8 wa~ons, all their camp and garrison equipments, arms, accouterments, & c., all this without the loss of a man on our part. Several rebels were killed and wounded. This daring feat shows what our cavalry is made of. The surprise and capture was made almost immediately under the eyes of Van Dorn, within 1 mile of his main body. Colonel Watkins and Captain Russell, of my staff, led the expedition and behaved handsomely. ~. GRANGER, Major- General, Commanding. General W. S. ROSECRANS. APRIL 27, 1863 .Skirmish at Negro Head Cut, near Woodburn, Ky. IREPOT~TS. No. 1.Brig. Gen. Jeremiah T. Boyle, U. S. Army. No. 2.Brig. Gen. Eleazer A. Paine, U. S. Army. No. 3.Benjamin J. Sweet, Twenty-first Wisconsin Infantry. No. 4.Lient. Patrick H. Dowling, One hnndred and eleventh Ohio Infantry. No. 5.J. B. Anderson, Railroad Superintendent. No. 1. Report of Brig. Gem. Jerern~ah I. Boyle, U. S. Army. LOUISVILLE, Kr., April 27, 1863. GENERAL: General Judak telegraphs from Bowling Green that Colo- nel Sweet, with the force from Galiatin, w~s attacked this morning, 4 miles north of Franklin; had 4 men wounded, killing 2 rebels, wonud- ing 2, and took 6 prisoners. Rebel force 30 to 50. Still skirmishing. Train all right; will move as soon as skirmishers return. J. T. BOYLE, Brigadier- General. Maj. Gen. AMBROSE E. BURN5IDE. No. 2. Report of Brig. Gem. Eleazer A. Paine, U. S. Army. HEADQUARTERS UNITED STATES FORCES, Gatlatin, Temn., April 30, 1863. SIR: I send herewith the report of Colonel Sweet, who was in com- mand of the expedition against guerrillas. I heartily approve of hi~ conduct, and say that he and his officers and men filled my expectations~ We have since learned that more harm was done the robbers than flrst~ anticipated. Respectfully snbmitted. E. A. PAINE, Briga ier-Gemeral, Commanding. Lieut. Col. C. GODDARD, A8sistamt Adjutant- General Page 323 CHAP. XXXV.] SKIRMISH AT NEGRO HEAD CUT, KY. 323 No. 3. Report of Got. Be~4arnin J. Sweet, Twenty-first Wisconsin Infantry. FORT THOMAS, Galiatiu, Tenn., April 28, 1863. CAPTAIN: In obedience to orders from your headquarters, yesterday morning, April 27, 1863, I took from my command 150 men, of the One hundred and second Illinois Volunteers, Colonel Smith, and placed them on the 9.30 a. m. np-passenger train, engine No. 4, Frank Bassett engineer, on the Louisville and Nashville Railroad, with instructions from you to repel any attack which might be made ou the train, save its passengers, and prevent damage to the railroad. On the train was also a guard of 25 men from Company II, One hundred and eleventh Ohio Volunteers, under First Lieutenant Dowling, of same company, stationed at Bowling Green, Ky. The train left the depot at Gailatin about 10 a. m. Arriving at Franklin, Ky., information gathered there indicating the belief that an attempt might be made near that place to tear up the track before the evening down-train should arrive, Lieu- tenant Conger, Company C, One hundred and second Illinois Volunteers, an intelligent officer, was left there with 50 men, with instructions to save the track, and, if attacked, to make his fight in the town, using the houses near the depot as a shelter, if necessary. Leaving Franklin at about 11.30, when running through Negro Head Cut, between Franklin and Woodburn, distant from Franklin 3~, from Woodhurn 2~ miles, where a train was attacked and burned some weeks ago, the cool, watchful engineer, Frank Bassett, saw ahead on the track that one end of a rail on the east side had been turned out some 4 inches, to run the train off and thongh running at ordinary speed, and fired at again and again from behind trees not morethan4rodsdistant,stood firmly at his post, keeping the train under control, and bringing it to a halt when the fore wheels of the engine were 10 feet from the end of the broken track. On the right of the railroad, up and down, nearly, ierhaps more than a mile, is a thick wood, crowding close on to the road, the trees of which, at a distance of about 4 or 5 rods along the train, made a cover for the enemy, from which, while the train was yet in motion, he fired indis- crirninately, upon the ladies car in the rear as well as upon all the other passenger cars of the train. Though much crowded in the cars, our men at once, while the train was moving, returned the fire through the car windows with coolness and deadly aim. Then, as the train halted, fell out rapidly on the side opposite the enemy, and, from under cover of the railroad grade, loaded and fired over the track and under the cars. This being what the enemy did not bargain for, he broke and fled. Finding that the train guard, under Lieutenant Dowling, Company H, One hundred and eleventh Ohio Volunteers, had most experience and drill as skirmishers, I deployed it, under his command, and, support- ing him with Company C, One hundred and second lllinois Volunteers, Lieutenant Shaw, pursued the flying train-robbers rapidly through the dense wood, which extends some 100 rods from the railroad, hunting them from cover. They mounted their horses, which had been left well in their rear, under the protection of a crest, and escaped, except those killed or badly wounded. Followed some 2 miles with skirmishers, and scoured the wood and country with ready-made scouts mounted upon 6 captured horses. I recalled skirmishers and scouts and their sup Page 324 324 i~xT., ~1ID. AND E. TENN., N. ALA., AND SW. VA. [ChAP. XXXV. ports, having meanwhile broken the wire. Telegraphed Lieutenant Gouger, at Franklin, General Judab, at Bowling Green, and you at Gallatin. The track being repaired, our own wounded and those of t1~e enemy then found being placed in the cars, took the train again until meeting the down-passenger train from Louisville, 3 miles south of Bowling Green; changed cars, and returned to this post, taking on the command of Lieutenant Gouger at Franklin, the object of the expedition having been accomplished. Officers and men all showed good fighting qualities; and my thanks are due to Colonel Smith and his command, Lieutenant Dowling, Company H, One hundred and eleventh Ohio Volunteers, and his com mand, from Bowling Green, as well as to Lieutenant [A. H.] Trego, One hundred and second Illinois Volunteers, acting adjutant to me, and Lieutenant Hall, Thirteenth Indiana Battery, for their courage and resolution. The passengers on the train behaved well, keeping quiet till the fight was over. This attack wasmade by 52 men, detailed from the brigade of the rebel General Wharton, or Horton, to avenge the capture of the rebel trains at MeMinuville, and was led by Captain Gordon, accompanied by Cap- tain Jones, of Morgans command, who selected the I)lace of attack. The party crossed Cumberland River, near Hartsville, on the night of April 25. Arrived near the place of attack about daylight, April 27. Our loss is 5 men of the One hundred and second Illinois wounded, 2 mortally, whose names will be found below.* The rebel loss is known to be 4 killed, who have been found and buried, and 4 wounded; 6 horses and their equipments captured, which were sent under charge of Lieutenant Dowling to Bowling Green. All of which is respectfully submitted. I have the honor to be, yours, to command, B. J. SWEET, Got. Twenty-first Reyt. Wisconsin Vols., Oomdg. Fort Thomas. Capt. PHELPS PAINE, Assistant Adjutant- General. No. 4. Report of Lient. Patrick II. Dowling, One hundred and eleventh Ohio Infantry. COLLEGE HILL, April 27, 1863. SIR: I beg leave to report that, in compliance with an order issued by you, April 26, I was detailed to take command of 25 men from my company (H), and go as guard with the passenger train to Nashville. On our return, Monday, April 27, we were re-enforced by another guard at Gallatin, of, perhaps, 100 men, commanded by Colonel Sweet, of the Twenty-first Wisconsin. Arriving at a short turn on the railroad, a place (in the woods) called Negro Head Cut, 4 miles north of Franklin, Ky., the train was suddenly fired into by a party of guerrillas, under command of the rebel General ilaughton [Wharton] (Captain Gordon then in corn- * Names omitted Page 325 CHir, XXXV.] SKIRMISH AT NEGRO HEAD CUT, KY. 325 mand). Fortunately the train was suddenly stopped, for the track was torn up a few rods in advance. I ordered my men to return the fire through the windows, which they did promptly. As soon as the ears stopped, we were out and formed in line of battle, Colonel Sweet taking command. By this time the guerrillas had retreated, and were ont of sight, except those who were killed and wonnded, 6 in number; 3 killed and 3 severely wounded (1 mortally). Colonel then asked me tf my company could deploy as skirmishers ~ I replied, Yes. He therefore directed me to take my company and deploy, which we promptly did, advancing eastward through the woods over a very hilly country, cap- turing 6 horses, saddles, bridles, and halters, and completely putting the rebels to flight. I then advanc~d about 2 miles, and returned to the cars. The 3 wounded rebels I put on the train and brought to Bowling Green; one of them died on the way, and the other two I placed in charge of the post surgeon for treatment. The horses, saddles, and bridles I also brought here, to be disposed of as you may see proper. The only loss we sustained was 4 men slightly wounded, their shots passing over our heads in the cars. It was very fortunate for us their shots were high, for the balls came thick. My opinion rs, it wa~ merely a band of guerrillas (or, perhaps, worse); their object to throw the train off the track,rob the train and passengers, and capture the guard. Yours, most respectfully, ~. ~. DOWLING, First Lieut., Comdg. Co. H, 111th Reyt. Ohio Volunteer Infantry. Brig. Gen. II. M. JUDAH, (ommanding Bowling Green, Ky. No. 5. Report of J. B. Anderson, Railroad Superintendent. NASHvILLE, April 28, 1863. GENERAL: The mail train north on the Louisville and Nashville Rail. road was attacked by guerrillas yesterday, 4 miles north of Franklin, Ky., at the point where the wood train was burned a few weeks since. General Paine, anticipating trouble, had placed a larger guard than usual on the train. This guard drove the enemy from the field, killing them, and wonuding some 4 or 5, who were captured. The guard had 4 or 5 wounded, none I believe, mortally. No passengers injured, and no damage to the train. The portion of the road between South Tunnel and Franklin seems more exposed to raids than any other. I would suggest whether it would not be well to place garrisons at Mitchellville, Tenn .,and Frank- lin, Ky., with stockades or earthworks, with sufficient mounted men to patrol that portion of the road. The garrison at Ilichland seems very watchful, but have too much line to guard. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, J. B. ANDERSON. Maj. Gen. W. S. ROSECRAKS, Commanding Army of the Cumberland Page 326 326 KY., MID. AND E. TENN., N. ALA., AND SW. VA [CHAP. XXXV. APRIL 29, 1863.Reconnaissance on the Chapel Thu Pike, Tenn. Report of Brig. Gem John 11. Schofield, U. S. Army, commanding Third Division, Fourteenth Army Corps. IIDQRS. THIRD DIVISION, FOURTEENTH ARMY CORPS, Triune, April 29, 1803. COLONEL: I have the honor to report that I went to the front this morning with a brigade of infantry, one battery, a small cavalry force, and forage train, as far as Jordans Store, on the Chapel Hill pike. We found and brought in an abundant supply of good forage. While the trains were loading, I went forward with about 200 cavalry to within about 4 miles of Chapel Hill. The enemys picket was found at Riggs CrossiRoads, and retired, skirmishing with our advance. One of the rebels is known to have been killed and several wounded. Three pris- oners were taken. No loss on our side. From conversation with negroes and citizens living within the rebel lines, I am satisfied there is no force in the vicinity of Chapel Hill, ex- cept about 500 or 600 cavalry, and that there has been no large force there recently. I failed to ascertain the whereabouts of the main body of the enemy~s cavalry. I am informed that there are three large flouring mills at and near Chapel Hill, which furnish large supplies to the rebel army. They can easily be destroyed, if it is deemed advisable. Whether or not, will, I presume, depend npou contemplated movements of our army. I will wait for instructions from the major-general commanding before making such an expedition. I am, colone], very respectfully, your obedient servant, J. M. SCHOFIELD, Brigadier- General. Lieut. Col. GEORGE E. FLXTNT, Assistant Adjutant- General, Fourteenth Army Corps. MAY 2, 1863.Skirmish near Thompsons Station, Tenn. Abstract from Record of Events, Cavalry Command, Department of the Cumberland.* May 2, the First Brigade, nuder command of Col. A. P. Campbell, left camp at 3 a in., on the Lewisburg pike. When abont 7 miles south of Franklin, near Thompsons Station, at daylight a portion of the com- mand made a charge into the camp of the enemy, capturing 24 prisoners and killing 2. MAY 26, 1863.Expedition from Bowling Green, Ky., to Tennessee State Line. Report of Bent. Col. S. Palace Love, Eleventh Kentucky Infantry. HDQRS. ELEVENTH REGIMENT KENTUCKY VOLUNTEERS, lJIay 6, 1863. SIR: in accordance with instructions from headquarters, Bowling Green, Ky., dated May 2,1863, I proceeded with my regiment (Eleventh From return for month of May, 1863 Page 327 CHAP. XXXV.] EXPEDITION TO TENNESSEE STATE LINE. 327 Kentucky Mounted Infantry) to Scottsville, Ky., and, finding no enemy there, but learning that he might be found in all probability some 15 miles beyond, in Macon County, Tennessee, I concluded to proceed, having four days rations. At Scottsville I divided my command, send- ing the company of the Eighth Kentucky Cavalry that was with me, commanded by Lieutenant Sasseen; Companies E and D of my regiment, commanded by Capt. Woodford M. ilouchin and First Lient. John J. Washer, respectively, all under command of Captain iouchin, by the Epperson Springs, Tenn., and, when they reached the State line, let Company ID take a left-hand road, and for both to meet and camp at the junction of the West Fork of Long Creek with Long Creek, and that I would proceed in a different direction, and camp within 4 miles of them that night and communicate with them, which I did. I that night sent a scout of one company (Company I) to them, and found them at the place indicated. I ordered said -company to remain with Captain ilouchin, and directed him to proceed to the neighborhood of Goose Creek, about 4 miles to the east of La Fayette, the county seat of Ma- con County, Tennessee, which place I had learned the guerrilla bands infested, and that I would proceed with my command to La Fayette, and await until I heard from him. I also instructed him not to go too far from me, so that I could not communicate with him or assist him if needed. I received an answer from him, saying that he had captured 5 rebels, and had accomplished the route laid down for him at our separation at Scottsville, and that he would, on the following morning, obey my or- ders, which he did, and we met at La Fayette at night, and the result of our scout up to that time was that he met a squad of guerrillas on Goose Creek, and was fired into from the brush, killing 1 of his horses, when his men returned the fire, killing I of the enemy. They fled, when he pursued them vigorously for about 110 miles, capturing 1 man and 5 horses. lie ran them within 3 miles of Hartsville, when he gave it up and returned to me at La Fayette, where we encamped for the night. I there learned that there was a force of the enemy (800 strong) on the opposite bank of the Cumberland, 15 miles distant, and as I had been in that part some tWo days, my men fatigued, and horses much fagged, I concluded to return to Bowling Green. I learned, however, during the scout that there were two gangs of these thieves in that neighborhoodone a party of deserted soldiers from the rebel army and citizens banded together for plunder and rob- bery, numbering about 30 persons, and the other about 60, as near as I could learn, who had just arrived, and of whom I did not see anything, but heard that they had passed up the East Fork of Goose Creek, in the neighborhood of Gallatin, Tenn. I did not hear anything very positive about this last party. That whole country is infested with the thieving party. They have nearly (levastated that country, and stolen nearly all the good horses from the citizens. I can tell you more ver- bally than I have space to write. 1 lost no men killed or wounded. We killed 2 of the guerrillas and captured 10. 1 lost 8 horses and captured 5. Two of my horses were shot from under my men, and 6 gave out from exhaustion and sore feet. Below is a list of the prisoners captured, together with a statement of each case.* In this hurried report, I perhaps have omitted many little incidents that may be important; when recalled, will be promptly reported. I Nominal list, omitted, shows that 10 prisoners were taken Page 328 328 KY., MID. AND E. TENN., N. ALA., AND SW. VA. [CHAP. XXXV. forgot to mention that I pressed 4 horses from citizens, to bring my men and prisoners home on, and which I returned. I also gave re- ceipts for all forage, with my name signed. I was compelled to feed on one Union man (Mr. Mahew), near Scottsville, the first night out. He accompanied me to Bowling Green, and I hope the proper vouchers will be given him for his grain. He is a true man, and had two sons in our army, one being killed at Shiloh. They were members of the Ninth Kentucky Infantry. Yours, respectfully, S. P. LOVE, Lieutenant- Colonel,- Commanding Regiment. Capt. R. C. KrsE, As8istant Adjutant- General. NAY 3, 1863.Scout from Triune to Eagleville, Teun. Report of Brig. Gen. Jo/in ill. Schofield, U. AS. Army. HDQES. THIRD DIVISION, FOURTEENTH ARMY CORPS, Triune, il/lay 39.30 p. m. COLONEL: My scouts have just returned from Eagleville and near Versailles. Saw only about 60 rebel cavalry; killed 1 and captured 6, with arms and horses. McCann was near Versailles night before last, with about 500 cavalry, going north. Could hear of no other cavalry having been in that vicinity recently. Respectfully, J. M. SCHOFIELD, Brigadier-General, Commanding. Lient. Col. GEORGE E. FLYNT, As8istant Adjutant- General, and Chief of Staff. NAY 5, 1863.Skirmish at Rover, Tenu. Report of Brig. Gen. John Jill. Schofield, U. S. Army. TRIUNE, Allay 6, 1863. GENERAL: Lieutenant-Colonel Brownlow, while on a reconnaissance yesterday, charged through a rebel cavalry camp at Rover; lost 2 men and captured 4. I gather from the prisoners captured, and from other sources, that there are six or seven regiments of infantry on Duck River, near Chapel Hill. I hear of no other change in position of rebel troops. Respectfully, J. M. SCHOFIELD, Brigadier- General. Brig. Gen. JAMES A. GARFIELD Chief of Staff Page 329 CHAP. XXXV.] AFFAIR NEAR CANEY FORK, TENN. 329 MAY , 1863.Affair at Obion Plank Road Crossing, Tenn. R~port of Brig. Gen. Alexander Asboth, U. ~3. Army, commanding Dis trict of Columbus, Ky. HDQRS. SIXTH Div., SIXTEENTH ARMY CORPS, Columbus, Ky., May 8, 1863. SIR: I beg to report that Company E, Fifteenth Illinois Cavalry Vol- unteers, First Licut. William B. Ford commanding, succeeded in sur- prising the notorious guerrilla, Captain Parks, with his band, encamped on the Obion Plank Road Crossing, 70 miles distant from Hickman. The rebels fired upon our men, but were gallantly charged. One lieuten- ant and 3 of their men killed and 18 taken prisoners, including Capt. J. H. Parks and First Lieut. A. W. Henry. Thus another guerrilla com- pany is destroyed, and I have now 4 noted guerrilla leaders here, Scales, Cotter, Cushman, and Parks, all to be tried as highway robbers. To- morrow our artist will combine the four in a picture. The officers and men of Company E, Fifteenth Illinois Cavalry Volunteers, are deserving of all, praise. Telegraphic commnnication is open between here and Hickman. ASBOTH, Brigadier- General. Lient. Col. HENRY BINMORE, Assistant Adjutant- General. MAY 9,1863.Affair near Caney Fork, Tenn. IR~EPOE~TS. No. 1.Brig. Gen. George Crook, U. S. Army. No. 2.B. F. Weems, Acting Assistant Adjutant-General, C. S. Army. No. 1. Report of Brig. Gen. George Crook, U. S. Army. CARTHAGE, TENN., May 11, 1863. SIR: I sent a scouting expedition np Caney Fork on the 9th, which captured Colonel [Baxter] Smith, his adjutant and one lieutenant, with two privates, all of the Fourth [Eighth] Tennessee Cavalry, of Morgans command. The expedition was attacked by a body of the enemy, but repulsed them, killing 2 rebels and wounding a third. I send Colonel Smith down fo-day. No further news from the enemy. Respectfully, GEORGE CROOK, Brigadier- General. Brig. Gen. JAMES A. GARFIELD, Chief of Staff, Army of the Cumberland Page 330 330 RY., MID. AND E. TEN~., 1~. ALA., AND SW. VA. [CHAr. XXXV No. 2. Report of B. F. Weems, Acting Assistant Adjutant-General, C. S. Army. HEADQUARTERS WHARTONS CAVALRY DIVISION, Sparta, ]Iliay 10, 1863. MAJOR: I am directed by General [J. A.] Wharton to say that he has just received intelligence of the capture of Col. Baxter Smith, of Fourth [Eighth] Tennessee Regiment, and 26 of his men, who were on the other side of Caney Fork from his command, on a scout. It was night, and the Federals crossed the river by transports and surrounded his camp with their infantry before he was aware of their coming. The general thinks that the Federals meditate mischief in that section. Most respectfully, major, your obedient servant, B. F. WEEMS, - Acting Assistant Adjutant- General. Maj. D. G. REED, Assistant Adjutant- General. MAY 12, 1863.ReconnaissanCe from La Vergne, Teun. Report of Cot. Eli Long, Fourth Ohio Cavalry. IIDQRS. DETACHMENT SECOND CAVALRY BRIGADE, Camp near La T7ergne, Tenn., ]lliay 12, 1863. SIR: Pursuant to instructions, I have the honor to report as follows: 1 left camp with my command as soon as the Third Ohio Cavalry joined, about 2.20 a. m. to-day, arriving at the camp of the First Ohio Cavalry at 5.45 a. m. On arriving there, I placed Colonel Eggleston in command of his regiment, 240 men, as he reported, and 70 of the Third Ohio, with the following instructions: To divide his command into three columns; the right-hand column going to Jefferson, and leav- ing a guard of 40 men in the vicinity of Streets Ford, just south of Jef- ferson, a point where a major of the First Ohio Cavalry, who is better posted in a knowledge of this country than any one I can find, told me the rebels were most likely to cross. This right-hand column was then to come down Stones River to the Upper Charltons Ford, leaving guards at all the fords en route. The center column was to move directly east to Charitons Ford, and remain there until joined by the other two columns. The left-hand column was to move to Stewards Ferry, com- municating with Colonel McCook, and then move up Stones River to Charltons Ford, leaving guards at the fords, as in the other case. Wh& u the three columns had joined at Charitons Ford, they were to move together to Rural Hill, under Colonel Eggleston, and from that point throw out small scouting parties in different directions, and, if he en- countered the enemy, to resist him sufficiently to make him develop his force. Inclosed please find dispatch from Colonel Eggleston, First Ohio Volunteer Cavalry. As the country is very rongh, and his command has quite a long march to make, I doubt if he will be able to accomplish it to-day. I will relieve him to-morrow at noon with a portion of my command; but as it is impossible to place a force sufficient to offer any resistance at all of the various crossings of the stream, some 20 miles Page 331 CHAP. XXXY.l SKIRMISH AT LINT4~N, TENN. 331 I will only leave a small picket to give warning at suitable places, and keep the rest of my command as well concentrated as I can consistently with patroling the river, and sending small parties across the river to find out which road the rebels contemplate coming. There are 263 men of my regiment here, and 105 of the Third Ohio. There are quite a number of both regiments remaining in camp who should be made to join their commands. it was impossible for me to get them all out in the dark. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, ELI LONG, Col. 4th Ohio Vol. Cay., Comdg. Detachment 2d Car. Brig. Capt. W. B. CURTIS, Assistant Adjutant- General, First Cavalry Division. [Inclosure.] CHARLTONS FoRD3 p. m. COLONEL: My left column has not got up yet. The right column has just arrived, with only 9 men left, after picketing the fords, so you see my force is small without Major lowlands force. I will make a scout as far as I think prudent this evening, and, if I hear nothing from you, I shall take all the force and make another, and go farther in the morn- ing, at which time I will let you hear