TITLE: The war of the rebellion: a compilation of the official records of the Union and Confederate armies. / Series 1 - Volume 36 (Part II) 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, 1891 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 1 THE WAR OF THE REBELLION: A COMPILATtON 01? TtIE OFFICIAL T~ECOJRDS OF THE UNION AND CONFEDERATE ARMIES. PREPARED BY The late Lieut. Col. ROBERT N. SCOTT, Third U. S. Artillery. PUBLISHED UNDER THE DIRECTION OF The Hon. REDFIELD PROCTOR, Secretary of War, BY MAJ. GEORGE B. DAVIS, U. S. A., MR. LESLIE J. PERRY, MR. JOSEPH W. KIRKLEY, Board of Publication. SERIES IVOLUME XXXVIIN THREE PARTS PART ILReports, Correspondence, etc. WASHINGTON: GOVERNMENT PRINTING OFFICE. 1891 Page 2 ~CORNELL UNiV[FcITY LIBRARY Page 3 CHAPTER XLVIII. OPERATIONS IN SOUTHEASTERN VIRGiNIA AND NORTH CAROLINA. Nay 1June 12, 1864. PART II.* REPORTS (except for Campaign from the Rapidan to the James River), May 4-June 9. CORRESPONDENCE, etc., May 1-19. NAY 46, 1864.Operations about New Borne, and in Albemarle Sound, N. C., including skirmishes on the Trent Road (4th); and on the south side of the Trent River (5th); Engagement with the Confederate Ram Albe- marie (5th); and Surrender of Union Outpost at Croatan (5th). EEPQRTS. No. 1.Brig. Gen. Innis N. Palmer, U. S. Army, commanding District of North Carolina. No. 2.Col. Henry T. Sisson, Fifth Rhode Island Heavy Artillery, of the surrender at Croatan. No. 1. Report of Brig. Gen. Innis N. Palmer, U. S. Army, commanding District of North Carolina. HEADQUARTERS DISTRICT OF NORTH CAROLINA, New Berne, N. C., May 7, 1864. MAJOR: Since I last wrote you in reference to affairs in North Carolina, we have had stirring, but rather satisfactory times here. On the evening of the 4th instant the enemy appeared on the Trent road toward Kinston, some 8 miles from here, and drove in our picket. Our force there was a small regiment of cavalry and two companies of infantry. These held their ground until dark, when the enemy retired. The next morning a considerable force appeared on the railroad on the south side of the Trent River, and our batteries, both army and navy, were engaged with them until * For general summary of the principal events, see Part I, p. 1. (3 Page 4 4 OPERATIONS IN SE. VA. AND N. C. [Ca~. XLVIII. late in the afternoon, when the enemy ceased firing. Yesterday morning a flag of truce came in with one Major Read, who stated verbally that he had come by direction of General Hoke, to demand the surrender of the place, as they had possession of the Neuse River, the railroad, & c. I directed one of my aides-de-camp to go to Major Read and to say to him that his delicate jest was duly appreciated by me, but that he must leave in one-half hour, or we should fire upon him. He left immediately, and I have heard nothing from him since. The forces on the railroad between this place and Morehead, I am told by two deserters, consisted of three brigades of Hoke, Corse, and Walker, all commanded by Walker, with some fifty or sixty pieces of artillery. I believe very little of what I hear, and although this in- formation may be correct I doubt itthat is, I doubt if there was so large a force. Our artillery practice was excellent, and the deserters say that quite a number, something more than 40, were killed. To- day I am having the railroad repaired, the telegraph wire replaced, & c., and before another day I hope to have our communication with Morehead open. I sent a steamer to Beaufort in the evening of the 5th. She has just returned, and I learn from Colonel Jourdan,, com- manding the Sub-District of Beaufort, that he is all right there, and that he will be able to hold out I firmly believe against any force that may attack him. The inclosed copy of a letter from Captain Smith, senior naval officer, will explain the operations against the ram in the Albe- marle Sound. Lieutenant King, of the Engineers, of my staff, wit- nessed the engagement with the ram, and I think it was a handsome affair. The Sassacus ran into the ram with all the force she could, but she could neither sink her nor roll her over. A shot went com- pletely through the Sassacus, penetrating the boiler and killing 1 man, and scalding badly some 18 others. The torpedoes are now in the mouth of the Roanoke River, and notwithstanding the formidable character of the ram I have no fears from her here. The rebel force that came here expected, I hear, to find the Roanoke ram here. I am confident of being able to hold everything here. The greatest difficulty I have to contend with is the trouble arising from the timid persons, women and children, and contrabands, who are badly scared. We have, however, I think, laughed the most of them out of their fears. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, I. N. PALMER, Brigadier- General. Maj. R. S. DAVIS, A. A. G., Dept. of Va. and N. C., Fortress Monroe, Va. [Inclosure. *] U. S. STEAMER MATTAPESETT, Brig. Gen. ~. N. PALMER, Off Roanoke River, May 6, 1864. Commanding Land Forces in North Carolina: GENERAL: I have to inform you that I engaged the ram Albe- marle yesterday from 4.40 to 7.30 p. m. with all my force, and regret that our efforts to capture her were not attended with success. Our * See also report of the Secretary of the Navy for 1~64, pp. 2629 Page 5 Ciiii.. XLVIII.] NEW BERKE AND ALBEMARLE SOUND. 5 shot had no perceptible effect upon her, close alongside. I drove her, however, into the mouth of Roanoke River, somewhat damaged, I think, but with machinery not disabled. I captured the Bombshell, with 37 prisoners, officers and men. Have not as yet had any official return from the Sassacus, who has her in charge, and is anchored several miles below. Our loss in the large vessel is 5 killed and 26 wounded. I shall be able to hold possession of the sound against any force the rebels can organize at this point. I am, very respectfully, your obedient servant, MELAiNCTON SMITH, Captain and Senior Naval Officer. No.2. Report of Got. Henry T. Sisson, Fifth Rhode Island Heavy Artillery, of the surrender at Groatan. HDQRS. FIFTH REGIMENT RHODE ISLAND ARTILLERY, New Berne, N. C., hi/lay 8, 1864. GENERAL: I have the honor to report the capture by the enemy of a portion of my regiment, and to submit the following particulars in relation to the matter: During several months Company A has been stationed at Croatan, N. C. This place is situated on the line of the Atlantic and North Carolina Railroad, 12 miles south of New Berne, about half a mile east of Brices Creek, and 6 miles from Havelock, which is the next station going south. Croatan is an isolated place and exceedingly difficult of access except by railroad, and has been held since the cap- ture of New Berne simply to prevent guerrillas from tearing up the railroad track and cutting the telegraph wire. About 7 oclock on the morning of the 5th instant the eneniy, in considerable force, ap- peared at Croatan, having effected the crossing at Brices Creek at a point above our pickets. Arriving at the station they immediately surrounded our men in preparation for an attack and to prevent the possibility of any escaping. In the mean time Captain Aigan col- lected his men and threw his entire command into the fort at that place, which has one small gun, a 6-pounder howitzer, and opened a vigorous fire on the enemy. A desperate fight ensued, lasting one hour and a half, when the enemy demanded an unconditional surren- der. This was refused by Captain Aigan. Subsequently however, seeing that he could maintain his position but a short time, he agreed to a conditional surrender, the terms of which I have not been able to ascertain. The citizens of Croatan affirm that the enemy freely acknowledged that our men fought with great gallantry. Fortu- nately, not one of Captain Aigans command was killed and but 1 wounded. The loss of the enemy is not known. Captain Whites horse was found dead in the ditch around the fort where he was shot. The men were allowed, as part of the terms of the surrender, to take two suits of clothing each, which will be of great service to them while they are held prisoners of war. About a week prior to their capture they received four months pay from the Government. Nearly one-third of the men had re-enlisted as veterans, and had re- ceived the first installment of bounty, advance pay, & c. How large the force was that made this raid is not known. Citizens living at Croatan represent that it consisted of a whole brigade. It is a sourc Page 6 6 OPERATIONS IN SE. VA. AND N. C. [CHAP. XLVIII. of satisfaction to know that the men of the Fifth Regiment who par- ticipated in this affair fought bravely and well, and did all that sol- diers could do against a foe so unequal in numbers. Subjoined are the names of the officers and men who were taken prisoners of war, and are now in the hands of the enemy.* I am, sir, with respect, your obedient servant, HENRY T. SISSON, Golonel, Gomdg. Fifth Regi. Rhode Island Artillery. Brig. Gen. E. C. MAURAN, Adjutant-General of Rhode Island. MAY 4OTUNE 2, 1864.Operations on the south side of the James River, Va. SUMMARV GE TIlE PRINCIPAL EVENTS. May 4,1864.Advance of the Army of the James. 5-11, 1864.Kautzs raid against the Petersburg and Weldon Railroad, in- cluding skirmishes at Birch Island Bridges, Blackwater River (6th), Stony Creek Station (7th), and Jarratts Station and Whites Bridge (8th). 6 7,1864.Engagement at Port Walthall Junction and Chester Station. 7,1864.Capture of U. S. gun-boat Shawsheen at Turkey Island. 9,1864.Engagement at Fort Clifton. Skirmish at Ware Bottom Church. Skirmish at Brandon (or Branders) Bridge. Engagement at Swift Creek, or Arrowfleld Church. 10,1864.Destruction of Confederate torpedo station, James River, Va. Action at Chester Station. 1216, 1864.Engagement at Proctors Creek and Drewrys Bluff (or Fort Dar- ling). 12-17, 1864.Kautzs raid against the Richmond and Danville Railroad, in- cluding skirmish at Flat Creek Bridge, near Chula Depot (14th). 16,1864.Skirmish at Port Walthall Junction. 17June 2,1864.Operations on the Bermuda Hundred front. 18,1864.Skirmish at Fosters Plantation. Skirmish at City Point. 20,1864.Skirmish at Ware Bottom Church. 21,1864.Skirmish at Fort Powhatan. REPORTS, ETC4 THE UNION ARMY. No. 1.Maj. Gen. Benjamin F. Butler, U. S. Army, commanding Department of Virginia and North Carolina, of operations May 420. No. 2.Return of Casualties in the Union Forces commanded by Maj. Gen. Ben- jamin F. Butler, U.S. Army, May 5-31. * Nominal list shows that 3 officers and 49 enlisted men were captured. t Of some of the minor conflicts noted in this summary no circumstantial reports are on file; all such are designated in the Index. ~ See also references to these operations in Grants report Part I. For reports of naval co-operation see Annual Report of the Secretary of tue Navy, December 5, 1864 Page 7 7 CHAP. XLVIII.] SOUTH SIDE OF THE JAMES. No. 3.Return of Casualties in the Union Forces commanded by Maj. Gen. Ben- jamin F. Butler, U.S. Army, June 1-14. No. 4.Capt. Lemuel B. Norton, U. S. Army, Chief Signal Officer, Department of Virginia and North Carolina, including operations April 19-June 14. No. 5.Capt. Gustavus S. Dana, Signal Corps, U. S. Army, including operations April 17June 19. No. 6.Lieut. Sylvester B. Partridge, Signal Corps, U. S. Army, of operations May 9. No. 7.Lieut. Harvey W. Benson, Signal Corps, U. S. Army, of operations June 230. No. 8.Lieut. Julius M. Swain, Signal Corps, U. S. Army, of operations May 1-31.. No. 9.Lieut. George F. Young, Fifth New York Heavy Artillery, Acting Signal Officer, including operations May 6-June 27. No. 10.Maj. Gen. Quincy A. Gillinore, U. S. Army, commanding Tenth Army Corps, of operations May 425. No. 11.Brig. Gen. Alfred H. Terry, U. S. Army, commanding First Division, of operations May 1216. No. 12.Col. Joshua B. Howell, Eighty-fifth Pennsylvania Infantry, commanding First Brigade, of operations May 910. No. 13.Capt. Leroy A. Baker, Thirty-ninth Illinois Infantry, of operations May 14-16. No. 14.Capt. Robert P. Hughes, Eighty-fifth Pennsylvania Infantry, of operations May 10. No. 15.Col. Joseph R. Hawley, Seventh Connecticut Infantry, commanding Sec- ond Brigade, of operations May 9-June 2. No. 16.Col. Redfield Duryee, Sixth Connecticut Infantry, of operations May 910. No. 17.Lieut. Col. Daniel C. Rodman, Seventh Connecticut Infantry, of oper- ations May 914. No. 18.Maj. Oliver S. Sanford, Seventh Connecticut Infantry, of operations May 10 and 16. No. 19.Capt. Theodore Bacon, Seventh Connecticut Infantry, of operations June 12. No. 20.Lieut. Col. Josiah I. Plimpton, Third New Hampshire Infantry, of oper- ations May 9-June 2. No. 21.Lieut. Col. Thomas A. Henderson, Seventh New Hampshire Infantry, of operations May 910. No. 22.Col. Joseph C. Abbott, Seventh New Hampshire Infantry, of operations May 12-16. No. 23.Col. HarrisM. Plaisted, Eleventh Maine Infantry, commanding Third Bri- gade, of operations May 710. No. 24.Col. John L. Otis, Tenth Connecticut Infantry, of operations May 1216. No. 25.Lieut. Col. Winslow P. Spofford, Eleventh Maine Infantry, of operations May 9-16. No. 26.Col. Francis A. Osborn, Twenty-fourth Massachusetts Infantry, of oper- ations May 716. No. 27.Col. George B. Dandy, One hundredth New York Infantry, of operations May 7 and June 1-2. No. 28.Capt. Frank C. Brunck, One hundredth New York Infantry, of operations May 14. No. 29.Capt. Alfred P. Rockwell, First Connecticut Battery, of operations May 910. No. 30.Capt. Zenas C. Warren, Fifth New Jersey Battery, of operations May 10. No. 31.Capt. Loomis L. Langdon, Battery M, First U. S. Artillery, of operations May 5-10 Page 8 8 OPERATIONS IN SE. VA. AND N. C. (CHAP. XLVIII. No. 32.Brig. Gen. John W. Turner, U. S. Army, commanding Second Division. of operations May 1216. No. 33.Brig. Gen. John W. Turner, U. S. Army, of operations of the First Bri- gade May 9-10. No. 34.Col. Samuel M. Alford, Third New York Infantry, commanding First Brigade, of operations May 9-16. No. 35.Col. Guy V. Henry, Fortieth Massachusetts Infantry, of operations May 1216. No. 36.Col. Harrison 5. Fairchild, Eighty-ninth New York Infantry, of operations May 9. No. 37.Col. N. Martin Curtis, One hundred and forty-second New York Infan- try, of operations May 1316. No. 38.Col. William B. Barton, Forty-eighth New York Infantry, commanding Second Brigade, of operations May 715. No. 39.Lieut. John H. George, Fourth New Jersey Battery, of operations May 10. No. 40.Col. Richard White, Fifty-fifth Pennsylvania Infantry, commanding First Brigade, Third Division, of operations May 9-10. No. 41.Lient. Col. Henry Boynton, Eighth Maine Infantry, of operations May 910. No. 42.Col. Jeremiah C. Drake, One hundred and twelfth New York Infantry, commanding Second Brigade, of operations May 616. No. 43.Col. Cyrus J. Dobbs, Thirteenth Indiana Infantry, of operations May 10. No. 44.Capt. William H. Chaddock, One hundred and twelfth New York Infan- try, of operation~ May 416. No~ 45.Maj. Gen. William F. Smith, U.S. Army, commanding Eighteenth Army Corps, of operations May 1216. No. 46.Surg. George Suckley, U. S. Army, Medical Director, of operations May 616. No. 47.Capt. Preston C. F. West, Aide-de-Camp, of operations May 7. No. 48.Lmeut. Campbell Tucker, Aide-de-Camp, of operations May 1216. No. 49.James A. Scrymser, Volunteer Aide-de-Camp, of operations May 12-16. No. 50.Brig. Gen. William T. H. Brooks, U. S. Army, commanding First Division, of operations May 716. No. 51.Col. Frederick F. Wead, Ninety-eighth New York Infantry, commanding First Brigade, of operations May 1216. No. 52.Brig. Gen. Hiram Burnham, U. S. Army, commanding Second Brigade, of operations May 716. No. 53.Lieut. CoL Martin B. Smith, Eighth Connecticut Infantry, of operations May 7-16. No. 54.Col. Aaron F. Stevens, Thirteenth New Hampshire Infantry, of operations May 716. No. 55.Col. Horace T. Sanders, Nineteenth Wisconsin Infantry, commanding Third Brigade, of operations May 1216. No. 56.Col. Arthur H. Dutton, Twenty-first Connecticut Infantry, commanding Tiurd Brigade, of operations May 16. No. 57.Lieut. Col. Thomas F. Burpee, Twenty-first Connecticut Infantry!, of op- erations May 1516. No. 55.Maj. Hiram B. Crosby, Twenty-first Connecticut Infantry, of operations May 25-26. No. 59.Maj. Theodore H. Schenck, Third New York Light Artillery, commanding Artillery Brigade, of operations May 616. No. O0.Capt. George B. Easterly, Fourth Wisconsi 721. n Battery, of operations Ma Page 9 CHAP. XLVIILI SOUTH SIDE OF THE JAMES. 9 No. 61.Brig. Gen. Godfrey Weitzel, U.S. Army, commanding Second Division, of operations May 916. No. 62. Brig. Gen. Charles A. Heckman, U. S. Army, commanding First Brigade, of operations May 67. No. 63.Col. Josiah Pickett, Twenty-fifth Massachusetts Infantry, of operations May 9-10. No. 64.Lieut. Col. Orson Moulton, Twenty-fifth Massachusetts Infantry, of oper- ations May 616. No. 65.Lieut. William Daley, Twenty-fifth Massachusetts Infantry, of operations May 14-15. No. 66.Lieut. James ONeill, Twenty-fifth Massachusetts Infantry, of operations May 1516. No. 67.Capt. Henry C. Dwight, Twenty-seventh Massachusetts Thfantry, of oper- ations May 1516. No. 68.Capt. Peter S. Bailey, Twenty-seventh Massachusetts Infantry, of oper- ations May 1516. No. 69.Lieut. Col. James Stewart, jr., Ninth New Jersey Infantry, of operafions May 1516. No. 70.Col. Griffin A. Stedman, jr., Eleventh Connecticut Infantry, Second Bri- gade, of operations May 1216. No. 71.Capt. George E. Ashby, Battery E, Third New York Light Artillery, of operations May 1216. No. 72.Brig. Gen. Edward W. finks, U. S. Army, commanding Third Division, of operations May 518. No. 73.Col. Joseph B. Kiddoo, Twenty-second U. S. Colored Infantry, First Bri- gade, of operations May 21. No. 74.Col. Samuel A. Duncan, Fourth U. S. Colored Infantry, commanding Sec- ond Brigade, of operations May 18. No. 75.Col. Benjamin F. Onderdonk, First New York Mounted Rifles (unattached troops), of operations May 719. No. 76.Brig. Gen. August V. Kautz, U.S. Army, commanding Cavalry Division, of operations May 517. No. 77.Col. Simon H. Mix, Third New York Cavalry, commanding First Brigade, of operations May 510. No. 78.Maj. Ferris Jacobs, jr., Third New York Cavalry, commanding First Bri- gade, of operations May 12-17. No. 79.Maj. J. Stannard Baker, First District of Columbia Cavalry, of operations May 5-17. No. 80.Maj. Ferris Jacobs, jr., Third New York Cavalry, of operations May 510., No. S1.Maj. Newton Hall, Third New York Cavalry, of operations May 1217. No. 82.Col. Samuel P. Spear, Eleventh Pennsylvania Cavalry, commanding Sec- ond Brigade, of operations May 517. No. 83.Lieut. Col. Christopher Kleinz, Fifth Pennsylvania Cavalry, of operations May 8. No. 84.Lieut. Col. George Stetzel, Eleventh Pennsylvania Cavalry, of operations May 5-17. No. 85.Col. Henry L. Abbot, First Connecticut Heavy Artillery, commanding Siege Train and Siege Artillery, of operations May 10June 4. No. 86.Capt. William 0. Pride, First Connecticut Heavy Artillery, of operations June 2. No. 87.Col. George W. Cole, Second U.S. Colored Cavalry (unattached), of oper- ations May 1315 Page 10 10 OPERATIONS IN SE. VA. AND N. C. tCx~p. XINHL THE CONFEDERATE ARMY. No. 88.General G. T. Beauregard, C. S. Army, commanding Department of North Carolina and Southern Virginia, of operations May 16-June 2. No. 59.Maj. Gen. Daniel H. Hill, C. S. Army, of operations May 16. No. 90.Maj. Gen. Robert Ransom, jr., C. S. Army, commanding Department of Richmond, of operations May 16. No. 91.Brig. Gen. Seth M. Barton, C. S. Army, commanding brigade, of operations No. May 10. 92.Col. George K. Griggs, Thirty-eighth Virginia Infantry, of operations May 327. No. 93.Maj. Gen. Robert F. Hoke, C. S. Army, commanding division, of operations May 16. No. 94.Lient. Col.George C. Cabell, Eighteenth Virginia Infantry, Corses brigade, of operations May 16. No. 95.Brig. Gen. Bushrod R. Johnson, C. S. Army, commanding brigade, of oper- ations May 611. No~ 96.Col. John S. Fulton, Forty-fourth Tennessee Infantry, commanding John- sons brigade, of operations May 7. No. 97.Col. R. H.Keeble, Twenty-third Tennessee Infantry, commanding Seven- teenth and Twenty-third Tennessee Infantry, of operations May 416. No. 95.Capt.William N. James, commanding Twenty-fifth and Forty-fourth Ten- nessee Infantry, of operations May 16. No. 99.Col. Abraham Fulkerson, Sixty-third Tennessee Infantry, of operations May 9. No. 100.Brig. Gen. Johnson Hagood, C. S. Army, commanding brigade, of oper- ations May 616. No. 101.Col. RobertF.Graham, Twenty-first South Carolina Infantry, of operations May 6. No. 102.Maj. Gen. William H. C. Whiting, C. S. Army, commanding division, of operations May 1617. No. 103.Brig. Gen. Henry A. Wise, C. S. Army, commanding brigade, of casualties May 16-20. No. 104.Capt. George D. Wise, Assistant Inspector-General, of operations June 2. No. 105.Col. William B. Tabb, Fifty-ninth Virginia Infantry, of operations May S. No. 106.Brig. Gen. JamesG. Martin,C. S. Army, commanding brigade, of casualties May 20. No. 107.Maj. Alexander W. Stark, Starks Battailion Virginia Artillery, of the capture of the U.S. gun-boat Shawsheen at Turkey Island, May 7. No. 108.Brig. Gen. Stephen Elliott, jr., C. S. Army, commanding brigade, of oper- ations June 2. No. 109.Capt. W. L. Trenholm, Seventh South Carolina Cavalry, of operations May 1516. No. 110.Lieut, Col. Wyatt M. Elliott, Twenty-fifth Virginia Battalion, Huntons brigade, of the capture of the U. S. gun-boat Shawsheen at Turkey Island. No. 1. Reports of Maj. Gen. Benjamin F. Butler, U. S. Army, command- ing Department of Virginia and North Uarolina, of operations May 4-20. HEADQUARTERS IN THE FIELD, Near Bermuda Landing, May 9, 1864. (Received 12 noon, 10th.) Our operations may be summed up in a few words. With 1,700 cavalry we have advanced up the Peninsula, forced the Chick Page 11 CHAP. XLVIII.] SOUTH SIDE OF THE JAMES. 11 h omin~, and have safely brought them to our present position. These were colored cavalry, and are now holding our advance pick- ets toward Richmond. General Kautz, with 3,000 cavalry from Suf- folk, on the same day with our movement up James River, forced the Blackwater, burned the railroad bridge at Stony Creek, below Petersburg, cutting in two Beauregards force at that point, and is now operating against Hicksford and Weldon. We have landed here, intrenched ourselves, destroyed many miles of railroad, and got a position which, with proper supplies, we can hold out against the whole of Lees army. I have ordered up the supplies. Beaure- gard, with a large portion of his command, was left south by the cutting of the railroads by Kautz. That portion which reached Petersburg under Hill I have whipped to-day, killing and wounding many, and taking many prisoners, after a severe and well-contested fight. General Grant will not be troubled with any further re-en- forcements to Lee from Beauregards force. BENJ. F. BUTLER, Major-General. Hon. E. M. STANTON Secretary of War. IN THE FIELD, NEAR CHESTER STATION, VA., May 12, 18643.30 p. m. (Via Fort Monroe.) (Received 1.30 a. in., 13th.) I am now pressing the enemy near Fort Darling. I have before me all the troops from North Carolina and South Carolina that have got up. Beauregards courier, captured this morning going to Gen- eral Hoke, in command of Drewrys Bluff, had dispatch that Beau- regard would join him as soon as the rest of his troops came up. I have left General Gillmore to hold our intrenchments while Gen- eral Smith demonstrates upon Drewry and the enemys lines. While this demonstration is going on I have sent General Kautz with his cavalry force to cut the Danville railroad near Appomattox Station, and perhaps he can advance on James River. Will do all I can, but the country is a terrible one to operate in. Please communicate this to General Grant. He drill see at once where we are. B. F. BUTLER, Major- General, Commanding. Hon. E. M. STANTON, Secretary of War. GENERAL BUTLERS HEADQUARTERS, May 17, 1864. (Received 8.30 p. in.) On Thursday, May 12, as stated in my last dispatch, I sent out Gen- eral Kautz with orders to cut the Danville road, thoroughly destroy the iron bridge across the Appomattox, and then, if possible, to cut the canal on the Jamesthe only remaining line of transportation to Richmondand thence to cross the Appomattox and cut the Weldon railroad at Hicksford, so as to imprison the transportation between Hicksford and Stony Creek, where it was oblige~ to be massed be- cause of the former cutting at the latter place. To prevent Kant Page 12 12 OPERATIONS IN SE. VA. AND N. C. (C~p. XLVIII. being interrupted or followed until at least he was well advanced, and to concentrate the troops on this command that were marching round from Petersburg, so that they should not re-enforce Lee, I marched my whole column, leaving a force of observation upon the enemy at Petersburg, and made demonstration upon the intrenched lines of the enemy around Drewrys Bluff, and remained before them until I learned from the Richmond press that General Kautz had cut the railroad at Coalfield and had safely arrived at the bridge over the Appoinattox. Meanwhile we had assaulted and carried the first line of the enemys works which extends from iDrewrys Bluff over the railroad and around to Manchester. On Monday morning about sunrise the enemy, hating received re-enforcements which made them then equal to my command, taking advantage of a very thick fog, made an attack upon the right of General Smiths line, and forced it back in some confusion and with considerable loss. As soon as the fog lifted General Smiths lines were established and the enemy was driven back to his original lines. The troops having been on incessant duty for five days, three of which were in a rain- storm, I retired at leisure within my own lines. At the same time with the attack upon my front the enemy made an attack upon the forces guarding my rear from Petersburg, in an endeavor to get pos- session of my intrenched lines. The attack was handsomely repulsed. We hold the railroad between Petersburg and Richmond. Prison- ers inform us that Davis and Bragg were present in person. BENJ. F. BUTLER, Major- General, Commanding. Hon. E. M. STANTON, Secretary of War. HEADQUARTERS IN THE FIELD, May 18, 1864. (Via Fort Monroe, 19th.) (Received ~.25 a. in.) General Kautz returned last night to City Point with his com- mand. He cut the Panville railroad at Coalfield Station, Pow- hatan, and Chula Stations, burning (lepot, water-tanks, and two freight trains and a locomotive, with large quantity of commissary and other stores then, crossing below, cut the Petersburg and Lynchburg Railroad at Wilsons, Wellville, and Blacks and Whites Stations, destroying switches, tanks, station-houses, and the track for many hundred feet; then, crossing the Petersburg and Weldon road at Jarratts Station~ again burned the water-tank, newly built since the former cutting, tore up the track and destroyed the rails, some of which had been relaid, although much twisted by the fire altogether a most successful expedition. The enemy are now mov- ing down from Richmond in large force to cover the turnpike and railroad opposite my position, so as to repair it. We have captured some of. Longstreets men and the Charleston (South Carolina) City Battalion. B. F. BUTLER, Mojor- General, Gommanding. Hon. E. M. STANTON, Secretary of War Page 13 13 CHAs. XLVIII.] SOUTH SIDE OF THE JAMES. BUTLERS HEADQUARTERS, May 20, 186410 p. m. (Received 7.40 a. in., 21st.) Have been fighting all day. Enemy are endeavoring to close in on our lines. We shall hold on. Have captured rebel General Walker, of Texas troops. Sheridan is at White Honse and has sent for a pontoon bridge, which I have forwarded him. Have also sent one of my army gun-boats with launches up the Rappahannock, as requested. B. F. BUTLER. SECRETARY OF WAR. No. 2. Return of Casualties in the Union Forces, commanded by Maj. Gen. Benjamtn F. Butler, U. S. Army (compiled from nominal lists of casualties, returns, & c.), May 531. [Includes engagements, & c., at Blackwater River (May 6), Port Waithall and Chester Station (6th and 7th), Stony Creek Station (7th), Jarratts Station and Whites Bridge (8th), Swift Creek, or Arrowfield Church (9th), Chester Station (10th), Proctors Creek and Drewrys Binif, or Fort Darling (12th-iSthI, Flat Creek Bridge, near Chula Depot (14th), Fosters Flantation (18th), Ware Bottom Church (20th), Wilsons Wharf (24th), and Bermuda Hundred front, & c. (l7th-3lst).] Killed. Wounded. Captured or missing. Command. n . 0 ~ 0 ~ 0 Z TENTH ARMY CORPS.* Maj. Gen. QUINcY A. GILLEOHE. FIRST nivisios. Brig. Gen. ALFRED H. TERRY. Firsf Brigade. Col. JOSHUA B. HOWELL. 39th Illinois 1 13 8 102 1 48 173 62d Ohio 67th Ohio 19 3 123 ... 147 85th Pennsylvania 2 3 27 2 34 Total First Brigade Second Brigade. CoL JOSEPH R. HAWLEY. 6th Connecticut 7th Connecticut 3d New Hampshire 7th New Hampshire Total Second Brigade Third Brigade. Col. HARRIS M. PLAISTED. 10th Connecticut 11th Maine 24th Massachusetts 100th New York 3 34 14 252 1 50 354 2 8 8 103 1 20 142 2 28 2 102 1 68 203, 36 4 178 16 237 2 2 44 1 49 7 74 16 427 2 105 631 5 1 29 35 1 4 2 4.3 50 3 5 1 45.7 61 10 7 114 41451 280 ~ Total Third Brigade 4 24 11 231 4 152 426 * The SeCond and Third Divisions were temporarily organized May 30 as the Third Division, Eighteenth Army Corps, and so Continued untilthe return from Cold Harbor; see Part I, p. 1 ~9. For organization of Butlers Command in the field May 5, 1864, see Part I, p. 116 Page 14 OPERATIONS IN SE. VA. AND N. C. [Cxw. XLVIII. Return of Casualties in the Union forces, & e.Continued. Killed. Wounded. Captured or missing. Command. o H H 4) H o ~ o ~ Artillery. Connecticut Light, 1st Battery New Jersey Light, 5th Battery 3dUnitedStates,BatteryE5 Total artillery Total First Division SECOND DIVISION. Brig. Gen. JOHN. W. TURNER. First Brigade. Col. SAMUEL M. Af~FORD. 40th Massachusetts 3d New York 89th New York 117th New York 142d New York Total First Brigade Second Brigade. Col. WILLIAM B. BARTON. 47th New York 48th New York 115th New York 76th Pennsylvania Total Second Brigade Artillery. New Jersey Light, 4th Battery 1 1 9 1st United States, Battery B 1st United States, Battery D Total artillery Total Second Division THIRD DIVISION. Brig. Gen. ADELSERT AMES. First Brigade. CoL RICHARD WHITE. Col. LOUIS BEu~. Col. HENRy R. GUSs4 8th Maine 4th New Hampshire 55th Pennsylvania 97th Pennsylvania Total First Brigade Second Brigade. CoL JEREMIAH C. DRAKE. 13th Indiana 1 19 6 87 9thMalne 14 5 86 112th NewYork 3 3 25 169th New York 1 15 1 78 Total Second Brigade 2 51 15 2~ * Transferred from Third Division May 21. t Captured May 16. ~Assumed command May 18. 14 16 12 12 I 3 2 2 27 31 Ti 134 307 1,442 13 4 58 1 21 97 3 2 53 8 66 6 6 i9 3 59 .1 6 89 19 5 73 22 119 1 54 14 249 2 57. 377 2 4 2 33 20 61 1 14 4 96 115 6 1 86 7 100 1 14 119 10 144 4 38 7 334 37 420 11 1 1 9 11 5 93 22 592 2 94 808 16 7 143 2 30 198 7 4 86 85 182 1 21 8 147 5 159 341 1 28 9 177 22 237 2 72 28 553 7 296 958 58 7 3 24 172 112 35 119 438 1 2 92 1 Page 15 CHAP. XLVIII.] SOUTH SIDE OF THE JAMES. Return of Casualties in the Union forces, & c.Continued. Killed. Wounded. Captured or missing. ~ Command. CI H I) a a U ~ 0 0 ~ a a ~ 0 ~ 0 ~ 0 ~ Artillery. New York Light, 33d Battery 3d Rhode Island Light, Battery C 1st United States, Battery M * Total artillery Total Third Divisioa .... . .. .. ENCINEERS. Col. EDWARD W. SERRELL. 1st New York (eight companies) CAVALRY. Capt. Lucius RICHMOND. 4th Massachusetts (1st Battalion) Total Tenth Army Corps .. . - - EIGHTEENTH ARMY CORPS. Maj. Gen. WILLIAM F. SMITH. FIR5T DIVIsION. Brig. Gen. WILLIAM T. H. BRooKs. First Brigade. Brig. Gen. OILMAN MARsTON. 81st New York 96th New York 98th New York 139th New York Total First Brigade Second Brigade. Brig. Gen. HIRAM BTJRNIIAM. 8th Connecticut 10th New Hampshire 13th New Hampshire 118th New York Total Second Brigade 4 5 i 5 6 4 124 43 834 9 388 1,402 2 2 23 351 108 2,367 18 789 2, 3,656 1 1 22 4 28 1 3 9 1 17 31 1 14 3 64 12 94 1 8 1 9 19 2 18 5 103 2 42 172 1 9 6 87 34 137 4 5 44 3 56 5 1 22 1 29 3 39 3 108 4 42 199 4 57 15 261 4 80 421 Third Brigade. Col. HORACE T. SANDERs. Col. ARTHUR H.. Dur~roN.t Brig. Gen. CHARLES DEVENs, Jr. 21st Connecticut 92d New York 58th Pennsylvania 188th Pennsylvania Total Third Brigade 22 8 * Transferred from First Division May 21. tAssigned May 17 and mortally wounded May 26. 14 7 64 ...... 24 2 8 1 78 I 144 25 15 2 109 2 88 19 Page 16 OPERATIONS IN SE. VA. AND N. C. [CHAP. XLVIU. Return of Casualties in the Union forces, & c.Continued. Killed. Wounded. Captured or missing. Command. ~,i H bI I) I) be 0 ~ 0 ~ 0 be 1 Artillery Brigade. Maj. THEODORE H. SCHENCK. Wisconsin Light, 4th Battery 4th United States, Battery L ~ith United States, Battery A Total Artillery Brigade Total First Division 5ECOND DIVISION. Brig. Gen. GODFREY WEITEEL. Brig. Gen. JOHN H. MART1NDALE.* First Brigade. Brig. Gen. CHARLES A. HECKMAN.t Brig. Gen. GEOReE J. STANNARD. Staff 23d Massachusetts 25th Massachusetts 27th Massachusetts 9th New Jeesey Total First Brigade Second Brigade. Col. GRIFFIN A. STEDHAN, Jr. Brig. Gen. IsAac J. WISTAR4 Col. GRIFFIN A. STEDMAN, Jr. 11th Connecticut 2d New Hampshire 12th New Hampshire 148th New York Total Second Brigade Artillery Brigade. Capt. FREDERICK M. FOLLETT. New York Light, 7th Battery 3d New York Light, Battery E 1st Rhode Island Light, Battery F 4th United States, Battery D Total Artillery Brigade Total Second Division 2 2 1 2 S 4 1 6 97 28 512 6 148 797 1 1 5 2 23 62 92 25 3 119 66 214 1 12 4 79 9 240 345 2 16 10 153 3 55 239 4 58 19 374 13 423 891 15 2 63 2 125 207 1 4 1 17 23 3 35 7 45 12 4 60 2 78 1 34 7 175 2 134 353 2 .6 ii 3 14 1 3 21 1 13 14 4 2 33 1 6 46 5 96 28 582 16 563 1.290 I 1 2 1 14 1 18 2 2 THIRD DIVISION. Brig. Gen. EDWARD W. HINKS. First Brigade. Brig. Gen. EDWARD A. WILD. 1st U. S. Colored Troops 10th U. S. Colored Troops 228 U. S. Colored Troops 37th U. S. Colored Troops Total First Brigade 2 * Assumed command May ~O. Captured May 16. ~ Assumed command May 7. ~ Resumed Command May 18. 2 16 ii 21 1 Page 17 SOUTH SIDE OF THE JAMES. 17 Return of Casualties in the Union forces, & e.Continued. Killed. Wounded. Captured or Command. missing. ri U U I) I) 15 ~ ~ ~ Second Brigade. Col. SAMUEL A. DUNCAN. 4th U. S. Colored Troops 5th U. S. Colored Troops 6th U. S. Colored Troops Total Second Brigade Artillery. 3d New York Light, Battery K 3d New York Light, Battery N 2d U. S. Colored Light, Battery B Total artillery Unattached. 5th Massachusetts Cavalry (dismounted) 13th New York Heavy Artillery, Companies A and H. 2d U. S. Colored Cavalry, Company D Total Third Division UNATrACHED. 1st New York Mounted Rifles 19th Wisconsin * Total unattached Total Eighteenth Army Corps CAVALRY DIVISION. Brig. Gen. AUGUST V. KAUTE. First Brigade. Col. SIMON H. Mix. 1st District of Columbia 3d New York Total First Brigade Second Brigade. Col. SAMUEL P. Sp~a. 5th Pennsylvania 11th Pennsylvania Total Second Brigade Artillery. New York Light, 8th Battery (section) Total Cavalry Division SIEGE ARTILLERY. Col. HENRY L. AEBSY. 2..... 4 6 3 5 4 11 5 2 15 3 20 I i 2 2 3 4 2 34 4 44 1 S 4 13 4 30 1 35 5 38 5 48 11 202 58 1,166 22 720 2,179 2 1 8 9 20 1 2 1 19 14 37 1 4 2 27 23 57 2 1 16 4 23 1 6 1 13 4 25 1 8 2 29 8 48 2 12 4 56 31 105 3 2 5 1st Connecticut Heavy Artillery . 3d Pennsylvania Heavy Artillery, Company M... Total Siege Artillery 3 2 * Detached from ThirdBrigade, First Division, May 17. 2 B BVOL XXXVI, PT H 3 CHAP. XLVIII. Page 18 18 OPERATIONS IN SE. VA. AND N. C. IICIL4P. XLVIIL Return of Casualties in the Union forces, & e.Continued. Killed. Wounded. Captuied or missing. ~ Command. H 0 o ~ ~ o ~ UNATTACHED CAVALRY. istUS. Colored 2 3 S 2d U.S.Colored 1 2 1 4 8 Total unattached cavalry 1 4 1 7 13 PONTONIERS. Capt. JOHN PICKERING, Jr. Massachusetts Heavy Artillery, 13th Company Total Army of the James 37 572 171 3,598 40 1,540 5,958 OFFIGERS KILLED OR MORTALLY WOUNDED. CONNECTICUT. Lieut. George Metcalf, 1st Battery. Lieut. Charles A. Wood, 7th Infantry. Capt. Horatio D. Eaton, 6th Infantry. Capt. John McCall, 8th Infantry. Capt. Jay P. Wilcox, 6th Infantry. Lieut. Levi C. Bingham, 8th Infantry. Lieut. William T. Bradley, 6th Infantry. Lieut. Alfred M. Goddard, 8th Infantry. Lieut. Frank Hull, 7th Infantry. Col. Arthur H. Dutton, 21st Infantry. DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA. Lieut. Henry W. Jackson, 1st Cavalry. ILLINOIS. Capt. James Wightman, 39th Infantry. Lieut. Joseph D. Walker, 39th Infantry. INDIANA. Lieut. Alfred Dawdy, 13th Infantry. MAINE. Lieut. William Brannan, 11th Infantry. MASSACHUSETTS. Lieut. Cob John G. Chambers, 23d In- Lieut. Mason A. Pea, 24th Infantry. fantry. Lieut. Charles G. Ward, 24th Infantry. Lieut. Richard P. Wheeler, 23d In- Lieut. Charles E. Upton, 25th Infantry. fantry. Capt. Charles D. Sanford, 27th Infantry. Lieut. Edgar Clough, 24th Infantry. Lieut. Pliny Wood, 27th Infantry. NEW HAMPSHIRE. Capt. James H. Platt, 2d Infantry. j Lieut. Eugene J. Button, 3d Infantry. Capt. Henry C. Ayer, 3d Infantry. Maj. Charles W. Sawyer, 4th Infantry. Capt. Richard Ela, 3d Infantry. Lieut. John A. Eaton, 10th Infantry. NEW JERSEY. Col. Abram Zabriskie, 9th Infantry. Capt. Joseph B. Lawrence, 9th Infantry, Capt~ Edwin ~. Harris, 9th Infantry. Licut. Edward S. Carrell, 9th Infantry Page 19 CHAP. XLVIII.] SOUflI SIDE OF THE JAMES. Return of Casualties in the Unibn For des, & c.Continued. NEW YORK. Lieut. John Mayes, 3d Cavalry. Lieut. George L. Schloendorff, 47th In- fantry. Lieut. John A. Smith, 47th Infantry. Capt. Samuel H. Moser, 48th Infantry. Capt. Walter H. Benedict, 96th Infan- try. Lient. Albert B. Phelps, 98th Infantry. Lieut. James H. French, 100th Infantry. Lieut. Azor H. Hoyt, 100th Infantry. Lieut. Col. Elial F. Carpenter, 112th In- fantry. Capt. George W. Brigham, 117th In- fantry. Lieut. William C. Casselman, 117th In- fantry. Capt. John S. Stone, 118th Infantry. Lieut. William H. Stevenson, 118th In- fantry. Lieut. Edgar M. Wing, 118th Infantry. Lieut. Walter S. Birdsall, 169th Infantry. OHIO. Capt. George Emerson, 67th Infantry. Lieut. John C. Cochrane, 67th Infantry. Lieut. George M. Ballard, 67th Infantry. Lient. Henry M. Wallick, 67th Infantry. PENNSYLVANIA. Lieut. Daniel H. Schriver, 11th Cavalry. Lieut. Isaac Fawkes, 97th Infantry. Lieut. John H. Baruhart, 55th Infantry. Capt. Hiram R. Shinkel, 188th Infantry. Capt. Jacob J. Young, 76th Infantry. U. S. COLORED TROOPS. Lieut. Thomas B. Mains, 2d Cavalry. No. 3. Return of Casualties in the Union Forces, commanded by Mc4j. Gen. Benjamin F. Butler, U. S. Army, June 1-14. [compiled from nominal lists of casualties, returns, & c.] Killed. Wounded. Captured or Command. - . missing. L. LI i) ~ I ~ e..i 0 ~ ,Q ~ 1st Connecticut HeavyArtillery 1 1 6th Connecticut Infantry 3 3 7th Connecticut Infantry 4 3 18 74 103 1st District of Columbia Cavalry 2 4 6 39th Illinois Infantry* 1 2 2 22 11 38 11th Maine Infantry* 3 3 33 4 43 4th Massachusetts Cavalry, 1st Battalion 1 2 3 3d New Hampshire Infantry 3 6 9 7th New Hampshire Infantry 2 2 1st New York Mounted Rifles 1 2 3 67th Ohio Infantry 5 . 5th Pennsylvania Cavalry 1 12 15 11th Pennsylvania Cavalry 3 11 3 17 3d Rhode Island Artillery, Battery C 1 1 1st U.S. Colored Cavalry 2 2 2d U. S. Colored Cavalry 2 2 6th U. S. Colored Infantry 1 . ~ 3 4 Total 1 24 10 124 5 93 257 *Lieut. Col.Winslow P. Spofford, 11th Maine, mortally wounded June 2, and Licut. Albert W Fellows, 39th Illinois, kiUed June 2 Page 20 20 OPERATIONS IN SE. VA. AND N. C. . [CHAP. XLVIII. No. 4. Report of (Yapt. Lernuel B. Norton, U. S. Army, Chief Signal Officer, Department of Virginia and North Carolina, including operations April 19June 14. HDQRS. DEPT. VIRGINIA AND NORTH CAROLINA, OFFICE OF THE CHIEF SIGNAL OFFICER, September 2, 1864. MAJOR: I have the honor to submit the following report of the operations of the signal detachment in this department from the 119th of April to the 31st of August, 1864, including the late active Campaign on the James River: On the 19th of April, in obedience to Special Orders, No. 143, para- graph 51, War Department, Adjutant-Generals Office, current series, I assumed command of this detachment as chief signal officer of the department. Upon reporting to the chief of staff I was informed that active operations would soon be commenced, and directed to at once prepare my corps for important service. On reviewing the work then being performed by the detachment I discovered that eight signal stations were in operation in the District of North Caro- lina and six in the District of Virginia. Those of the former gave to general commanding our forces at New Berne communication with all parts of his picket-line and with three forts defending the town. Whenever the enemy threatened or attacked our lines in the vicinity of New Berne the signal communication established was found to be of the utmost importance, enabling the commanding officer to speed- ily concentrate his forces at the point of attack, and. thus rendering the line defensible by a less number of men than it would otherwise have required. Four of the stations in the District of Virginia con- stituted a line of signals which connected the left and center of our intrenchments south and west of Portsmouth with the headquarters of Brigadier-General Heckman, who commanded that position. In case of an assault the signal communication thus obtained should have materially assisted in the defense. There was also a station at Yorktown and one at Gloucester Point communicating with each other, and by means of which during an attack upon either place the fire of the batteries located at the other could have been directed against the enemy. The same two stations were, extensively em- ployed each day in the transmission of official dispatches, particu- larly after the concentration of the Eighteenth Army Corps at Yorktown and the Tenth at Gloucester Point. In order that the de- tachment might be rendered in the highest degree serviceable during the anticipated active campaign, more officers, signal stores, horses, and equipments, transportation, clothing, camp and garrison equl- page, and quartermasters stores were needed and at once. Six offi- cers (second.lieutenants) were procured from regiments by the assist- ance of Circular Orders of April 21, 1864, headquarters Department of Virginia and North Carolina, and placed under instruction in signal duty. Two signal officers, who had been on detached service, were directed to report to me (one by the commanding general and the other by the War Department), and 9 signal officers, who had arrived within the limits of this department with the Tenth Army Corps, were placed under my command. ThQ signal supplies were promptly forwarded from the Bureau of Signal Corps a Page 21 CHAP. XLVIII.] SOUTH SIDE OF THE JAMES. 7 Washington upon my telegraphic requisitions. The horses, equip- ments, transportation, & c., were furnished in good time by the different staff departments, and at the commencement of the Cam- paign this detachment was almost thoroughly equipped, and with fair prospects of successfully accomplishing any legitimate work that should be required of it. In view of a contemplated movement by land and water the following assignments were made: Capt. G. S. Dana, with a party of 8 signal officers, to the Tenth Army Corps, and 2 of his most intelligent sergeants (who had been instructed in signals) were supplied with equipments and designed to act in the capacity of officers should their services be thus needed. First Lient. T. F. Patterson, with a party of 4 signal officers and 3 ser- geants, similarly equipped, to the Eighteenth Army Corps. First Lieut. H. W. Benson, to duty with Acting Rear-Admiral S. P. Lee on board the Malvern, flag-ship of the North Atlantic Blockading Squadron. Second Lient. P. Carpenter (who was relieved from duty in the District of North Carolina), to the flag-ship of the army gun-boat flotilla, commanded by Brig. Gen. Charles K. Graham. A signal depot of supplies was left at Camp Hamilton, near Fort Mon- roe, under the charge of an officer of the last detail who was not sufficiently instructed to be able to take the field. On the 4th of May I was informed that the Tenth and Eighteenth Army Corps were ordered to enibark upon transports, which, in the evening, were to assemble in Hampton Roads preparatory to start- ing early on the following morning on an expedition up the James River. In anticipation of this movement, some of the signal officers and sergeants pr~viously assigned to corps were soon after distrib- uted to the divisions and brigades of those corps. Division amid nearly every corps commander had with him upon the steamer occu- pied as his headquarters the means of communicating by signals with his commanding officers as they moved up the river. On ac- count of the scarcity of signal officers in the department~ but 1 could be spared (even at this important juncture) to the navy, and he, therefore, remained upon the flag-ship. In the evening of May 4 I was directed by the commanding general to embark with him- self and staff on board the steamer Greyhound, and I obeyed the order at 10 p. in., taking with me as assistants the acting quarter- mnaster and acting adjutant of the detachment. The trip up the river commenced at an early hour on the 5th, and signals were frequently brought into requisition. by the com- manding general and his subordinate commanders in the transmis- sion of orders and the making of inquiries. The first landing was made by Wilds brigade at Wilsons Wharf, on the north side of the James, and the signal officer with that command immediately estab- lished a station on shore and communicated with the different trans- ports as they passed that point. The next place occupied was Fort Powhatan, on the south side of the river, 7 miles above Wilsons Wharf, and here [left] Staffords brigade, with the signal party, which latter at once prepared to communicate with the passing steamers and with Wilsons Wharf. We then pushed on to City Point, and there a landing was effected by General Hinks with Duncans bri- gade, of his division. A rebel signal party was found at this place transmitting to Petersburg, even while our troops were disembarking, the intelligence of our arrival. The sergeant in charge, his 4 flag- men, his flags, torches, and glasses were all captured, and Genera Page 22 22 OPERATIONS IN SE. VA. AND N. C. [Cn~. XLVflL Rinks signal officer immediately occupied the enemys station, and from there opened communication with general headquarters on board the Greyhound and with other boats as they came in view. After the capture of City Point we then ascended the river about a mile to Bermuda Hundred, which was occupied by the Tenth and the remainder of the Eighteenth Corps. During the evening of the 5th general headquarters remained on the Greyhound, and signal communication was had with the troops on shore, with City Point, and the different headquarters still on b oats in the harbor. Early on the morning of May 6 an officer was sent to occupy an old rebel signal station at Bermudga, and communication opened at once from it to General Rinks headquarters at City Point. The advance of the forces under Maj. Gen. W. F. Smith having reached Port Walthall, his signal officer occupied a rebel station at Cobbs Hill, which was abandoned on our approach, and from it obtained communication with City Point, and through the latter with gen- eral headquarters on board the Greyhound. On the same day the signal officer at Wilsons Wharf accompanied a detachment of the First U. S. Colored Troops, which captured the rebel signal station party and equipments at Sandy Point, on the James River. The enemys signalist made an armed defense, and the sergeant in charge and 3 of his men were killed before the surrender took place. The record of all the dispatches and reports sent and received through that rebel station was captured and forwarded to the commanding general. It was noticed that while our fleet was ascending the river on the 5th of May the enemys stations on both sides were actively engaged in reporting our movements until the very moment of the capture of the City Point station, when their line to Petersburg was severed. The Sandy Point station alluded to above was one of those thus cut off from the terminus, and it would never have been cap- tured had not the sergeant in charge placed a too literal construction upon his orders, which were to remain at his post until driven off by the Yankees. Signal communication was kept up during the 6th between the flag-ship of Admiral Lee and general headquarters. On the 7th an officer was sent to Turkey Bend to open a tempo- rary intermediate station between the flag-ship Malvern, which had moved up the James to Curls Neck and general headquarters in the Greyhound. Through this line Admiral Lee transmitted his official report (to the Navy Department and to the general command- ing) of the loss of the gun-boats Shawsheen and Commodore Jones, the former having been destroyed by a rebel battery, and the latter by a rebel torpedo. On the same day, the Tenth Army Corps hav- ing taken a position with its right resting on the James River opposite Farrars Island, a station of observation was established at the Curtis house, near that point, and an officer placed there to watch the rebel signal stations on the north bank of the river and the Drewrys and Balls Bluffs batteries. His observations were reported to Major-General Gillniiore. On May 8, the army gun-boats having gone up the Appomattox River to protect the left of our army, communication was opened between the flag-ship of General Gra- ham and the Cobbs Hill station, near General Smiths and General Butlers headquarters, which latter was moved into camp during the afternoon of this day. On the 9th a reconnaissance in force to- ward Petersburg was made by Rinks division from City Point and communication by signals was kept up between the land forces an Page 23 CHAP. XLVIII.] SOUTH SIDE OF THE JAMES. 23 the army gun-boats assisting them. On the same day the rest of our army moved out to destroy the Petersburg and Richmond Railroad, and on reaching the turnpike flag signals were operated between the various portions of the Tenth Corps engaged in destroying the railroad and the headquarters of Major-General Gillmore. On the 10th the troops of the above mentioned expedition returned to ca~inp, and during the return march signal communication was had by Brig. Gen. John W. Turner, commanding the rear guard, with his rear skirmish line. On the 11th flag signals were established along the line of intrenchments from General Ames headquarters, near Battery No. 3, to General Terrys headquarters at the Curtis house, and through it with Admiral Lee, whose iron-dads were protecting the right of our line on the James River opposite Farrars Island. On the 12th Colonel Duncan with his brigade, of Rinks division, proceeded to occupy and fortify Spring Hill on the south bank of the Appomattox opposite Point of Rocks, and communication by signals was opened for him with his division commander at City Point, and through the Cobbs Hill station with Major-General Smith, commanding the corps. On this day another general ad- vance was made to get possession of the Petersburg and Richmond Railroad and turnpike. Notwithstanding the thickly wooded nature of the country~ the signal detachment was usefully employed during this march. On the 13th signal communication was maintained throughout the day and night between the headquarters of the general commanding at Cheathams house, near Kingsland Creek, and those of General5mith, near the Half-Way House, on the turn- pike. On the 14th a station was placed at the Half-Way House (then occupied as the temporary headquarters of the general com- manding), communicating with one at our advanced line on the turn p ike, and with an officer p laced on the right of our line near the James River, to observe the movements of the enemy. On the 15th communication by flag ~was had between General Smiths head- quarters at Friends house (which was also General Butlers during the day) and General Gillmore, commanding the left. Early on the morning of the 16th, during a very dense fog, our forces were attacked and driven back a short distance. Shortly after the fog lifted communication was opened between the head- quarters of the commanding general at Cheathams house and a station of observation at the Half-Way House, near which General Smith occupied aposition on the field. Afterward our troops in the center were forced back and General Gillmores command ordered to withdraw from the left and form in rear of the center. Signals were brought into requisition during this change between General Gill- mores position near the turnpike and his troops while they were leav- ing their old line west of the railroad. Late in afternoon of same day our whole army returned to its intrenchments, and the signal stations previously occupied therein were reopened. During the assault of the enemy upon our intrenchments on the 20th stations were placed at Battery 6 and Battery 1, both commu- nicating with Battery 3, the former also with the Cobbs Hill sta- tion and Battery No. 1, also with the Curtis house, on James River thus giving a line of signals around the intrenchments from general headquarters, near Cobbs Hill, to the flag-ship Malvern, on the James, and between the different batteries, enabling them to direct the fire of each other upon any particular object Page 24 24 OPERATIONS IN SE. VA. AND N. C. [Ca& ~. XLVIIL. On the 20th also about 3,000 of the enemys cavalry, under Fitz- hugh Lee, attacked Wilds brigade at Wilsons Wharf, and during the fight, which lasted from 2 till 6 p. in., the signal officer at that post directed the fire of the gun-boats upon the enemy and kept up constant communication with Fort Powhatan, 7 miles distant, and where was located the nearest force that could afford assistance, if necessary. For these services then rendered the signal officer and his party received the thanks of the general commanding the post. On the 25th a code for rocket alarm signals was devised by Major- General Smith and his signal officer, and rockets furnished by this department to be used along our picket-line in case the enemy should make any demonstration at night. The same code and system was adopted by General Gillmore on the 26th for the right of the line, and his pickets were also furnished with rockets. On the 27th, by consent of the chief of staff, 3 signal officers were relieved from the Tenth Army Corps and assigned to duty with the mobile column of Major~General Smith, who had at that time but 1 signal officer in his new command of 20,000 men, and who requested that he be fur- nished with 3 more. On the 30th I accompanied the general com- manding to a point on the Appomattox, opposite Port Walthall, and enabled him by means of signals to direct the fire of Spring Hill Fort upon the railroad at Walthall Junction. On the 31st about 700 of the enemy attacked Duncans brigade, posted at Spring Hill, on the south bank of the Appomattox, and the signal communica- tion previously established between the two sides of the river was maintained and called into constant requisition throughout the fight. During this short engagement the commanding general occu- pied a position at Point of Rocks, and a station was there opened communicating across the river with the officer commanding at Spring Hill and with the commander of the gnu-boats in the stream. The attack was repulsed in a few hours and the enemy retired. In the District of North Carolina the same signal stations were operated during the month of May that were found there when I assumed command, and nothing beyond the usual routine of signal duty transpired until the 26th, when the station built across the rail- road track at Batchelders Creek was destroyed by the accidental ex- plosion of some torpedoes, which it is supposed were being carelessly handled from the cars beneath the, signal station. By that accident 2 fiagmen were killed and 1 wounded. During the month of June the following changes were made in the signal stations already established, and the following new ones opened and operated: The station at Bermuda Hundred, which for over a month afforded the only rapid means of communication had between that p lace and City Point, was discontinued on the 13th be- cause of a te egraph line having been extended between the two points mentioned. Considerable official business between the quar- termasters department and General Hinks command, and between the commanding general and General Hinks, was, during the exist- ence of the Bermuda station, transacted over its signal line. The stations previously established at Battery No. 1 and the Curtis house were removed on June 11, the former to General Terrys new headquarters, which he had changed from Curtis house to a camp in the woods, 1 mile to the rear of Battery 6, and the latter to a tower, 50 feet high, at the water battery, which was built for pur- poses of observation and to facilitate communication with the gun Page 25 CH~. XLVIII.] SOUTH SIDE OF THE JAMES. 25 boats in the James. It was from this latter station that the enemys movements across the James were discovered and reported, and some of their important signal (lispatches intercepted. * I have the honor to be, major, very respectfully, your obedient servant, L. B. NORTON, Capt. and Chief Signal Officer, Dept. of Va. and N~ C. Maj. R. L. DAvIS, AssI. Adjt. Gen., Dept. of Va. and N. C. No. 5. Reports of Capt. Gustavus SI Dana, Signal Corps, U. S. Army, in.~ cluding operations April 17June 19. HDQRS. SIGNAL DETACHMENT, TENTH ARMY CORPS, In the Field, Va., June 1, 1864. CAPTAIN: I have the honor to submit the following report of operations from the time of leaving the Department of the Sonth nntil May 31, 1864: On the 17th of April, 1864, I embarked on the steamer Northern Light, in obedience to Special Orders, No. 163, headquarters Depart- ment of the South, accompanied by First Lieuts. Wilson Brnyn and Charles F. Cross, and Second Lients. Charlps Weihl, Fred. J. Ams- den, W. W. Clemens, Oscar B. Ireland, Nathan B. Roberts, Signal Corps, U. S. Army, and Second Lieut. Frank L. Morrill, acting signal officer, and 36 men. Arrived at Gloucester Point, Va., where we encamped, April 22. An officer was immediately stationed at corps headquarters, Fort Keyes, to communicate with General Smiths headquarters at Yorktown. In obedience to orders received from headquarters Department of Virginia and North Carolina, I reported to Capt. L. B. Norton, chief signal officer, Department of Virginia and North Carolina, on the 24th of April. Soon after reach- ing Gloucester Point I made requisition for the necessary supplies for the outfit of my party, which was only partly furnishea; even now not half my men are mounted. On the 3d of May I received orders from General A. H. Terry, temporarily commanding Tenth Army Corps, to assign an officer to each division and brigade, as far as possible, and accordingly made the following disposition of my party: First. Lieut. Charles F. Cross, First Division; First Lient. Wilson Bruyn, Second Division; Second Lient. F. J. Amsden, Third Division; Second Lient. N. B. Roberts, First Brigade, First Division; Second Lient. Charles Weihl, Third Brigade, First Division; Second Lieut. W. W. Clemens, First Brigade, Second Division; Second Lieut. F. L. Morrill, First Brigade, Third Divis- ion; Second Lient. Oscar B. Ireland and myself to accompany corps headquarters. I also assigned Sergts. S. M. Reed and J. D. Emerson, with signal equipments, for temporary duty to the Second Brigade, First Division, and Second Brigade, Second Division, re- spectively. Communication between headquarters Tenth Army Corps and Yorktown was discontinued on the evening of May 4, and by daylight the next morning the troops had all, embarked on * For continuation of report, see Vol. XL, Part I Page 26 OPEI~ATI0NS IN SE. VA. AND N. ~. (OHAP. XLVIII. transports. Signal communication was opened between corps, divis- ion, and brigade headqjuarters while moving up the James River and kept up until our arrival at Bermuda Hundred. Disembarked and moved out to the front May 6. Established a station of observation at the Curtis house in the a. m. of the 7th, keeping watch on Drewrys Bluff, Balls Bluff bat- teries, and three of the enemys signal stations on the north side of the J ames River. The latter were discontinued the next day. Part of Richmond was also visible, and steamers could be traced in their course up and down the James River. On the 9th our army moved out to destroy the Petersburg and Richmond Railroad. On reach- ing the turnpike signal communication was established between General Terrys headquarters at Chester Station and General Ames headquarters near Port Walthall Junction, as shown by accompany- ing map ;* also having two stations of observation communicating direct with General Gilimores headquarters. On returning from Swift Creek on the 10th signal communication between General Turner, commanding rear guard, and his rear skifmish line was kept up. In the a. m. of the 11th signal communication at the front was established from General Ames headquarters, near Battery No. 3, to General Terrys headquarters at the Curtis house, thence to Admiral Lees flag-ship in the James River. The injury I received in being thrown from my horse on the even- ing of May 8, aggravated by the subsequent fatigue and exposure, induced a fever, which on the 11th of May placed me under the sur- geons care, remaining in my quarters until May 20. The effects of this fall I am not free rom yet. On the 12th this force moved toward Fort Darling, my party being assigned as before, Lieutenant Cross taking charge. The stations worked May 15 and 16, as shown by the accompanying map, were nearly all under fire at different times. The force returned to this place in the evening of the 16th, and the stations at the front were reopened. During the assaults on our works May 20 signal commit- nication was opened from Batteries Nos. 1, 3, and 6 with the navy, via Curtis house, and with each other, to enable the fire to be directed, which communication has since been unintei~rupted. Made monthly inspection on the 25th and found the stations, equipments, & c., in fair condition, except the glasses in possession of most of the offi- cers, which were poor. These have now been exchanged for good ones. On the 26th Captain Norton having furnished me with some rockets, they were sent to our picket-line to be used in case of an attack. On the 27th 3 officers and 9 men of this party were, by Special Orders, No. 21, headquarters Department of Virginia and North Carolina, transferred to the Eighteenth Army Corps. Owing to the sickness of Lieutenants Clemens and Roberts it became neces- sary to discontinue the station at Battery No. 6, but it was resumed on the 31st. The stations now being worked by my party are as follows: At Curtis house, communicating with Admiral Lees flag-ship in the James River and with Batteries Nos. 1 and 3, also used as a station of observation; at Battery No. 1, to enable the signal officer at Bat- tery No. 3 to direct No. ls fire; at Battery No. 3, communicating with Curtis house, Battery No. 1, and Battery No. 6; at Battery No. 6, com * Not found Page 27 CHAP. XLV~.1 8OrTH SIDE OP THE ~VAMEg. 27 municating with Battery No. 3 and Cobbs Hill station on the hank of the Appomattox River, all of which are shown on the accompany- ing map. They are exposed to the enemys fire constantly. There have been seventeen stations established and worked by my party since coming to this place; twelve of them under fire, four of the latter now in operation. Very respectfully, yours, GUSTAVUS ~. DANA, Captain Signal Corps, U. S. Army. Capt. L. B. NORTON, Chief Signal Officer, Dept. of Va. and N. C. HDQRS. SIGNAL DETACHMENT, TENTH ARMY CORPS, In the Field, Va., July 23, 1864. CAPTAIN: I have the honor to submit the following report of oper- ations for the month ending June 30, 1864: The stations reported as being worked by this party May 31 con- tinued unchanged, with the exception of one at Battery No. 6, which was removed 200 yards to the left to avoid the concentrated fire from the enemys batteries to which it was exposed while in its former position, until June 7, when signal communication between head- quarters Tenth Army Corps and Battery No. 3, via General Terrys headquarters, was established, air lines hav~ing been cut through the woods for that purpose. To further facilitate the communication between the army and Admiral S. P. Lee, whose flag-ship is in the James River near Dutch Gap, as well as to gain an excellent post of observation, I received permission to erect a tower on a high bluff on the bank of the James River; about 300 yards to the rear of the Curtis house, abandoning the Curtis house, and communicating with the batteries and the different headquarters, via General Terrys headquarters. This communication was established on the 12th, an air line having been cut through the woods between General Terrys headquarters and the tower. On the night of June 8 I accompanied General Gilimore on the expedition toward Petersburg, having with me Second Lient. 0. B. Ireland, Signal Corps, U. S. Army, and 5 men. We reached the defenses of the city at 11 a. in., and finding them too strong to be assaulted with any show of success by our sniall force, General Gillmore ordered the return to our old post, which we reached on the evening of the 9th. No opportunity was offered for using signals, but Lieutenant Ireland and myself made some impor- tant observations. During the remaining portion of the month the lines of signal communication remained the same, the stations worked by this party being as follows: From Admiral Lees flag-ship Agawam, lying in the James River near Dutch Gap, to the tower at the water lattery. As a station of observation this tower has proved invalu- able, all the movements of Lees army crossing to the south side of the James, as well as all the movements of the enemy near Chaffins farm batteries, Howletts house, & c., having been reported by the officers on duty there. From the tower to General Terrys head- quarters, thence to General Gillmores headquarters; also to Battery 3, through which communication is kept up with the tower on th Page 28 OPERATIONS IN SE. VA. AND N. C. 28 [CRAP. XLVIII. bank of the Appomattox River, via Battery No. 6, thence to Spring Hill. The accompanying map* shows the stations worked by this party, also those with which we are in communication. I take pleasure in stating that I have been ably seconded in all my efforts since leaving the Department of the South, each and every officer and man having done his whole duty nobly, nearly every station being worked under fire frequently, gaining much praise from the commanding officer. Having suffered from ill health almost continually since leaving the Department of the South, I ap.. p lied for and received leave of absence to go North for thirty days, leaving this department June 19. I have the honor to be, sir, very respectfully, yours, G. S. DANA, Captain, Signal Corps, U. S. Army. Capt. L. B. NORTON, Chief Signal Officer, Dept. of Va. and N. C. No. 6. Report of Lieut. Sylvester B. Partridge, Signal 6~orps, U. S. Army, of operations May 9. HDQRS. THIRD DIvISION, 18TH ARMY CORPS, City Point, Va., Jtliay 10, 1864. CAPTAIN: I have the honor to make the following report of oper- ations during yesterday, May 9: I accompanied General Hinks on a reconnaissance toward Peters. burg, Va., taking with me 1 flagman. I endeavored from several points to discover the position of General W. F. Smith and to com- municate with him, but he was not at any time in sight. General Graham moved up the Appomattox River with his gun-boats. When he came within range of the rebel battery called Fort Clifton it opened on his boats. General Hiuks brought his force into posi~ tion in sight of the battery. The gnu-boats replied with apparently some effect, but as the enemy occupied a very elevated position, he had a decided advantage. The following messages passed between General Hinks and Gen- eral Graham by signal, there being a signal sergeant with the latter officer: 1.30 P. M. General HuNKS: Have you heard anything. from Smith? GRAHAM, General. General GRAHAM: No. RINKS, General. 1.45 p M. General HuNks: Will von send a battery to take that fort? GRAHAM, General. * Not found Page 29 CRAp. XLVIII.] SOUTH SIDE OF THE JAMES. 29 General GRAHAM: I have sent a force, and will let you know what I can do when it returns. RINKS, General. 2P.M. General RINKS: I can do nothing. One of my boats has had a hole put through her boiler already. GRAHAM, General. 4P.M. General GRAHAM: The fort that opened on you is on the opposite side of the river from us, and com- mands this road as well as the river. It is impracticable to advance on this road. I shall fall back to the middle road and make a reconnaissance on that. Please keep a lookout on this road and prevent the enemy following on it. RINKS, General. It was not necessary to direct the fire of the guns on General Gra- hams boat, as their range was not sufficient. There were no signal parties on the other boats. The shelling was continued two or three hours. We reconnoitered the enemys position very thoroughly and came upon his works at several points. Having accomplished all that was possible, the force returned to City Point in the night. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, S. B. PARTRIDGE, First Lieutenant, Signal Oorps, U. S. Army. Capt. LEMUEL B. NORTON, Chief Signal Officer, Dept. of Va. and N. C. No. 7. Report of Lieut. Harvey. W. Benson, Signal Gorps, U. S. Army, of operations June 2-30. FLAG-SnIP MALVERN, James River, July 1, 1864. CAPTAIN: I have the honor to report operations for the month of June, while serving with the James River fleet, as of great impor- tance to the fleet to enable them to learn of the enemys movements, as pertains to naval operations and protecting the right flank of our forces; also in directing the fire of gun-boats and any attacking force that might assail the works on the right. June 2, General Terry desiring the admiral to open fire on his front for practice and to get the ranges, & c., I went aboard the On- ondaga. We fired at a range given by signal, the station at Battery No. 3 reporting to Curtis house station, which station reported to my station. We fired 3 shots only and obtained range. I then re- turned to the flag-ship Agawam. June 9, station on shore reported the enemy sending a gnn-boat down the river, and on my report all was made ready for action. June 13, the station at battery reported one of the rebel rams as moving down to attack us and others following slowly. The ad- miral sent me with iron-clad Tecumseh and we opened fire on the enemy, firing entirely by direction and range, & c., given by signal, and after firing a few shots the enemy retired up the river again out of sight Page 30 30 OPERATIONS IN SE. VA. AND N~ C. [CIAP. XLVIII. June 15, tlie flag-ship went down the river to Fort Powhatan. I was in communication with four different stations of Army of Poto- mac and at night with the station at City Point, and returned to old anchorage at 11.30 a. m. June 16. The admiral changed his flag-ship to gun-boat Malvern 18th June. Changed station on the 19th to iron- clad and directed firing against rebel rams; and again, June 21, I took station on the iron-clad Onondaga, directed and reported shots by signals sent by Lieutenant Bruyn from shore from 10.30 a. m. until 5 p. in., the enemy having retired, when I changed to the Mal- vein again. June 26, I was ordered to iron-clad Canonicus to remain until the flag-ship returned, and returned at dark; and again on the 28th in- stant I was ordered to Canonicus. During the month I have sent over 100 official messages, and w~s constantly on duty either at signaling or practicing with 2 naval officers in order to assist me in case of any emergency. Said officers were first taught by Captain Howard while in the west. At the same time I was suffering with an illness which I had had for thirty days previous, reading and sending messages under a cross-fire from the battery above us and the rams in our rear, and received the thanks of aft naval officers with [sic] for the prompt and great a~- sistance which was rendered during the month by our system of sig- nals. I would also like to report Private Sweet as a man entitled to a first class, he having proved himself as superior in watching and re- porting enemys movements from the masthead, and. attention to duties and great care of signal equipments; and also that as the enemys movements up the river cannot be seen from the vessels lying in the river, great importance is attached to the station in charge of Lieutenant Bruyn. And hoping that my. efforts meet with your approval, I am, & c., very respectfully, your obedient servant, H. W. BENSON, Lieutenant and Signal Officer. Capt. L. B. NORTON, Chief Signal Officer, Dept. of Va. and N. U. No. 8. Report of Lieut. Julius M Swain, Signal Uorps, U. S. Army, of operations May 131. HEADQUARTERS WILDS BRIGADE, Wilsfrns Landing, James River, Va., May 31, 1864. CAPTAIN: I inclose herewith a transcript of the official messages received by me during the month of May, and with it the following report of my duties for the month: From the 1st to the 4th instant I was in charge of the station at Fort Reno, on the line of the Portsmouth defenses. On the 4th in- stant I reported at Fort Monroe with my party, agreeable to your orders, and on that evening to General Hinks, who assigned me to duty with Brigadier-General Wild, commanding First Brigade, Third Division, Eighteenth Army Corps. I immediately reported to General Wild on board the transport Wilson Small, in Ham p ton Roads. I had with me Privates Lathrop, Mott, Jonas, and Bell, two of whom and myself were mounted. On the morning of th Page 31 CHAP. XLVIII.] SOUTH SIDE OF THE JAMES. 5th we found ourselves with the advance of the fleet, and landed at this point with the First and Twenty-second U. S. Colored Troops. On the 6th instant I went with 2 of my men and a detachment of the First Colored Regiment to Sandy Point, where the enemy still retained their signal station. We Captured the party, with their sig- nal and other equipments and arms, and burned the station. On the 7th instant we went with a party to Lower Brandon and marched from thence to Mount Pleasant, where we burned another station, but found no men, as it had been abandoned the previous day. On the 10th instant Private N. C. Jonas was taken sick with inflamma- tory rheumatism. 13th instant, broke up another station at a point above Powhatan, on the north bank of the James and near Har- rison s Landing. Here we captured one worthless glass and a barrel of turpentine, but the party with their guard were mounted and left on our approach. 17th instant, sent Jonas to Balfonr Hospital, Ports- mouth. 19th instant, Private Delaney reported for duty from Signal Camp, Camp Hamilton. 21 st, our forces at Powhatan were attacked by cavalry, but notice of their approach and movements having been signaled to this post, General Wild, with one regiment, went to their relief, and the enemy were soon repulsed. 24th instant, Maj. Gen. Fitz. Lee, with 3,000 cavalry, attacked this post fiercely, but after six hours of continued firing were repulsed with serious loss. During the attack I directed the fire of the gun-boats, and for over three hours of the time we kept communication open, nuder fire, with Powhatan, and were enabled to send all messages ordering re-enforcements from City Point and gun-boats from Powhatan. The enemy withdrew about 7 p. in., and the attack wa~ not renewed. Most of the messages sent this day were received verbally from the general or his staff, and no record kept of them. We have con- tinued communication between this point and Powhatan, but the distance, about 8 miles, all over water, renders it very necessary to have good glasses. Sergeant Walker has but an indifferent one, and I would respectfully apply for a good telescope for him, as many times he cannot distincruish my flag when his can be s& en. I have the honor to ~e, very respectfully, your obedient servant, JULIUS M. SWAIN, Second Lieutenant and Signal Officer. Capt. L. B. NORTON, Chief Signal Officer, Dept. of Va. and N. C. No. 9. Report qj Lient. George F. Young, Fifth New York Heavy Artil lery, Acting Signal QfJlcer, including operations ]lfay 6June 27. SIGNAL CAMP NEAR GENERAL BUTLERS HDQRS., In the Field, June 27, 1864. CAPTAIN: I have the honor to report the following duties per- formed by me as acting signal officer while in charge of stations from the time of the landing of General Butlers force at Bermuda Hundred, Va., to the p resent date: On the morning of May 6 I landed at Bermuda Hundred, and re- ceiving instructions from Capt. L. B. Norton, chief signal officer, ~ iwm~diate1y opened ~ry station within a short di~taiicc of th Page 32 32 OPERATIONS IN SE. VA. AND N. C. [CHAP. XLVIII. landing, on a station which was in use by the rebel signal corps up to the hour of our arrival. Communication was opened with signal party who remained with the general in steamer Greyhound, the same being in use by General Butler as his headquarters, and with signal station at City Point, Va., a distance between 2 and 3 miles, separated from Bermuda Hundred by the Appomattox River. During the time signal station was on the Greyhound, which was up to the 8th or 9th of May, communication was open from the generals headquarters through mine to station at City Point, where General Rinks was in command. During the time many important messages were received and transmitted for General Butler and the general commanding at City Point. On the [7th?] May our force at the landing was startled by an explosion which happened some few miles from the landing up the James River. At the time I re- ceived orders from Captain Norton, chief signal officer, by signals, to proceed up the banks of the James, find out all particulars con- cerning the explosion, and report the same on returning. Mount- ing my horse and taking flagman along I was soon on the banks of the James nearly opposite the spot, and I learned then that the ex- plosion was caused by one of our gun-boats being blown up by the enemy. Not satisfied with this intelligence I started. up the river, swung my flag, and almost instantly my call was answered by signal officer on board Admiral Lees flagship. Through this signal officer on flag-ship I received from Admiral Lee for General Butler a long and very important message giving the account of the accident which happened at the time, of others, and news of much impor- tance which Admiral Lee had obtained from prisoners and contra- bands from Richmond. On or about the 7th General Butler moved his headquarters from the James River to near Point of Rocks. During this time communication between my station and City Point continued the same, and messages from City Point for General But- ler were received the same and sent to the generals headquarters by mounted orderlies. My duties continued the same at this station to the 10th of the month. Orders received on the 10th to report at head- quarters. The day following I was sent to Cobbs Hill signal sta- tion, near Point of Rocks, to relieve signal officer who was in charge, with orders from chief signal officer to keep communication open with City Point and on gun-boat on the Appomattox, headquarters of General Graham, besides making observations of the enemy around Petersburg, Va. I remained at this station several days, transmitting and receiving many important messages for the gen- erals commanding, rendering them much service. On the return of General Butler, with his force, from the front, I was relieved from duty on this station, and received orders to pro- ceed to Fort Monroe to bring up stores and supplies for the detach- ment. On my return I reported at headquarters, and again received orders to take charge of Cobbs Hill station, while the signal officer who was in charge at the time accompanied General Smith on his expedition. On taking charge of station, communication was then open with City Point and on gun-boat on the Appomattox, includ- ing station at Spring Hill, on the opposite bank of the Appomattox. At this time many messages were received and sent, and nearly all orders from General Butler to officers commanding at Spring Hill and to General Graham on gun-boat were sent by our signals. On the morning of the 31st a message by flag was received from Colonel Ames, who was at the time in command of the force at Spring Hill Page 33 CHAP. XLVIII.] SOUTH SIDE OF THE JAMES. that they were attacked by the enemy in heavy force. This message was delivered immediately after receiving, and others, which fob lowed quickly, soon had re-enforcem~nts under way to assist Col- onel Ames in holding his position. The re-enforcement called for arrived in time to meet and drive the enemy back toward Peters- burg, Va. During the shelling by the enemy of the fort at Spring Hill and the signal station, Sergeant Garrett, who was in charge of the de- tachment at the time, was obliged to leave his station, but kept the flag working, sending the message, which was sent correctly, and then fixed station nearer the bank of the river, and there had the same communication with the commanding officer at that post. I continued in charge at Cobbs Hill station to the 3d of June, and re- ceived orders same day to turn over my command to Lieut. D. L. Craft, signal officer, and to take charge of signal ca~mp near head- quarters. On the 6th of June, by order of Captain Norton, chief signal officer, I received into my camp a detachment of 50 new re- cruits from Signal Camp of Instruction, at Georgetown., D. C. From this date to the piesent time my duties as acting assistant quarter- master for the detachment have kept me close at camp, attending to the stores, issuing clothing to the men, drawing forage and stores, making out returns, and tending to the wants of detachments in the field, besides the men in camp. Before closing this report, I have to state that on the morning of the [9th] of June I received orders to take charge of tower signal station, near Point of Rocks, and report by signal to headquarters all intelligence I could gain by making observations in and around Petersburg of the enemys movements and of our advanced forces, who were advancing toward Petersburg from our lines nearly oppo- site Fort Clifton. Shortly after commencing my observations Gen- eral Butler, accompauied by a staff officer, came upon the station and made the desired observations himself. The general appeared pleased with the prospects and what little assistance I rendered him. About noon the enemy opened on the station with their guns from a masked battery and made several good line shots, though failed to do any damage whatever. I am, captain, very respectfully, your obedient servant, GEO. F. YOUNG, Lieut. Fifth Arty., New Yark Vols., Actg. ~Sig. Officer, and Acting Assistant Quartermaster Detachment. Capt. L. B. NORTON, Chief Signal Officer, Dept. of Va. and N~ C. No. 10. Report of Maj. Gen. Quincy A. Gilimore, U. S. Army, command ing Tenth Army Corps, of operations May 4-25. ENGINEER DEPARTMENT, Washington, January 24 1866. ADJUTANT-GENERAL, U. S. ARMY, Washington, D. C.: SIR: I have the honor to transmit herewith a copy of my report to General Butler of the operations of the Tenth Army Corps, while under my command in the Department of Virginia and North Caro- 3 R R-vOL XXXVI, PT I Page 34 34 OPERATIONS IN SE. VA. AND N. C. [CHAP. XLVIII. lina, from the time of its arrival there on the 4th of May, 1864, until the 25th of that month. A subsequent report * of a demonstration by a detachment from the Tenth and Eighteenth Corps against the defenses of Petersburg on the 9th of June, 1864, was made to Gen- eral Butler, and by him forwarded, as he officially informed me, to the War Department, where it will doubtless be found on file. I have been unable to find a copy of it among my papers, and pre- sume it must have been left among the records of the Tenth Army Corps. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, Q. A. GJLLMORE, Brevet Major-General, U. S. Army. P. S.Copies of the reports of Brig. Ge~is. Alfred H. Terry and John W. Turner are also transmitted herewith. Q. A. GJLLMORE, Brevet Major-General. HEADQUARTERS TENTH ARMY CORPS Near Hatcher8, Va., May 25, 1864. COLONEL: I have the honor to submit the following report of the operations of my command since my arrival in this department on the 4th instant: On that day my command embarked at Gloucester Point, and on the following day ascended the James River in rear of the Eight- eenth Corps, commanded by Maj. Gen. W. F. Smith. On the.night of the 5th both corps effected a landing at Bermuda Hundred, and on the 6th advanced and took up the line we now occupy, extending from the James River to the Appomattox, my command being on the right. No enemy opposed our landi~ig, and we encountered none in our advance. On the morning of the 7th three brigades from my commandPlaisteds from the First Divis- ion, Bartons from the Second, and Drakes from the Thirdwere ordered to report to General Smith, to take part in a demonstration against the Richmond and Petersburg Railroad. They reached the road ~nd returned to camp the same evening. No general officer accompai~tied the force which I sent, and I have no report of the op~lbiiW6f these detached troops on that day. On the morning of the 9th in accordance with the following order, I moved out with the balan~e o~ lAy command, striking the railroad at and to the southward of Chester Station: HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF VIRGINIA AND NORTII CAROLINA, Bermuda Landing, Va., May 8, 1864. You will tti~ke~aUi y~r ~d~t~i~it three brigades, which were detailed before, and demonstrate t6the right and frdnt, via Ware Bottom Church, upon the railroad, accompli~1ib~ it kcttetria~t1?ty1place where you may strike it, and along as mucb~jfIit~ po~*ib \T~e~~rei~i our front with cavalry, 5,000 men, and it is a disgrace that we are cooped up here, This movement will commence at day- light to-morrow morning, andjs ~mper~t*v~. Answer if you have received this order and will be ready to move. VT BENJ. F. BUTLER, f , Ma4or-General, Commanding. Ii ~See~.2S7 Page 35 Ca& p. XLVIII.] SOUTH SIDE OF THE JAMES. 35 Brigadier-Generals Ames, Terry, and Turner commanded in per- son the troops drawn from their respective divisions. A portion of the Eighteenth Corps, under Major-General Smith, occupied the railroad on my left. A little before noon the whole command, except a portion of Terrys division left on the pike to guard the approaches from Richmond, moved to the left, and during the after- noon took up a position facing Swift Creek, which we found occu- pied by the enemy in considerable force. We found this creek impassable for any kind of troops. The bridges were all guarded by artillery and iiifantry, the latter occupying both banks of the stream. In the evening I met General Smith for the first time dur- ing the day. Upon conferring together we took the liberty to make the following suggestion to the major-general commanding: SWIFT CREEK, May 9, 18647 p. m. Maj. Gen. B. F. BUTLER, Commanding Department of Virginia and North Carolina: GENERAL: We have conferred together upon the problem before us, and respect- fully suggest, for your consideration, whether it would not be better, and secure to us greater advantages, to withdraw to our lines to-night, destroying all that part of the road this side of Chester Station which we left to-day, and then cross the Appo- mattox on a pontoon bridge that can be thrown across below General Smiths head- quarters, and cut all the roads which come into Petersburg on that side. Such a bridge can readily be constructed in one night, and all the work of catting the road and perhaps capturing the city can be accomplished in one day, without involving us in heavy losses. If we should remain here and be successful to-morrow, the roads coming into Petersburg on that side still remain intact, with the Appomattox between us and them, and we may even then be forced to adopt the plan we now suggest. Very respectfully, your obedient servants, Q. A. GILLMORE, Major-General, Commanding Tenth Army Corps. W. F. SMITH, Major-General, Commanding Eighteenth Army Corps. The following reply was received about midnight: HEADQUARTERS EIGHTEENTH ARMY CORPS, DEPARTMENT OF VIRGINIA AND NORTH CAROLINA, Bermuda Hundred, May 9, 1864. Maj. Gens. W. F. SMITH and Q. A. GILLMORE, Commanding Eighteenth and Tenth Army Corps: GENERALS: While I regret an infirmity of purpose which did not permit you to state to me, when I was personally present, the suggestion which you make in your written note, but left me to go to my headquarters under the impression that an- other and far different purpose was advised by you, I shall [not] yield to the written suggestions which imply a change of plan made within thirty minutes after I left you. Military affairs cannot be carried on, in my judgment, with this sort of vacillation. The information I have received from the Army of the Potomac convinces me that our demonstrations should be toward Richn~ond, and I shall in no way order a cross- ing of the Appomattox for the purpose suggested in your note. If, as I believe, General Kautz has been successful, the communications of the enemy have been cut so far below Petersburg as to render the Lynchburg and Petersburg Railroad useless as a means of communication with the south, and if the Danville railroad is to be cut at all, it better be cut near Richmond on the south side in conformity with the plan agreed upon between the lieutenant-general and myself. Therefore, as early as possible, consistently with safety, you will withdraw your forces from Swift Creek, attempting in the first place to destroy the railroad bridge and then complete a thorough destruction of the railroad as we return to our position, with the intention of making a subsequent early demonstration up the James from the right of our position. I have written you this note jointly, because you have agreed in a joint note to me. I have the honor to remain, very respectfully, your obedient servant, BENJ. F. BUTLER, Major-General, Commanding Page 36 36 OPERATIONS IN SE. VA. AND N. C. [CHAP. XLVIII. HEADQUARTERS TENTH ARMY CORPS. Near Swift Creek, May 10, 1864. Maj. Gen. B. F. BUTLER, Commanding Dejpartment.of Virginia and North Carolina: GENERAL: I have received your dispatch in reply to the note signed by General Smith and myself. That note contained simple suggestions, nothing more. It could not have contained any recommendation from me to change plar~s, as I did not know what the plan of operations was, further than to cut the Petersburg and Richmond Railroad. Presuming that it was desirable to cut all the railroads lead- ing out of Petersburg, I could see no better way to do it than the one proposed. I had had no opportunity to confer with General Smith, until I met him in your presence, and did not converse with him upon the nature of his instructions, or the objects aimed at, until after you had left. My orders from you were to, de- stroy the railroad, and afterward, verbally, to support General Smiths movement on Swift Creek. Further orders from you regulating the movements of the two corps seem necessary. At Brandon Bridge the enemy have infantry and cavalry this side of the creek, and the approaches are open and covered by artillery on the other side. No practicable ford has been found yet. I am destroying the railroad near the junction. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, Q. A. GILLMORE. Major-General, Commanding. Our forces were withdrawn from Swift Creek during the forenoon of the 10th. Just before this movement commenced, a detachment from General Terrys division, left in rear on the Richmond pike, under Colonel Voris, Sixty-seventh Ohio Volunteers, was attacked and nearly overpowered by a superior force of the enemy from Drewrys Bluff. General Terry, witlj~ a reserve force which had been stationed at Port Walthall Junction, hastened to Colonel Voris assistance. The conflict was severe and sanguinary. The enemy were driven back with a loss of nearly 300 men, as acknowledged by themselves. Two pieces of artillery captured from us were recov- ered by a gallant charge of the Seventh Connecticut Volunteers, under Lieutenant-Colonel Rodman. The woods took fire from our shells, and many of the enemys dead and severely wounded were consumed. General Terry held this position until after night-fall, when he was withdrawn to the intrenchments. Throughout the 11th the command remained within our intrenchments. On the morning of the 12th Brigadier-General Turner, with his division, reported to Major-General Smith to take part in a demonstration against the defenses of Richmond. Brigadier-General Ames, with most of his division, was posted at Port Walthall Junction to hold the approaches from Petersburg, while Brigadier-General Terry, with Plaisteds and Hawleys brigades of three regiments each, was conveniently posted a couple of miles in advance of our intrench- ments. Colonel Howell, commanding First Brigade, Terrys divis- ion, was left in command of that portion of the Tenth Corps remain- ing in our works. On the afternoon of the 12th I moved with Terrys command and two regiments of Colonel Whites brigade, Ames division, up the pike, taking position on General Smiths left, Turners division occupying his right next James River. The enemy was directly in our front behind Proctors Creek. ASSAULT OF WOOLDRIDGE HILL. On the evening of the 12th I was ordered by Major-General But- ler to move to the left on the following morning and turn the right of the enemys intrencliments, located on the head of Proctors Creek, west of the railroad. I movecl~ accordingly with eight reg Page 37 CHAP. XLVIII.] SOUTH SIDE OF THE JAMES. 37 ments under General Terry, and Marstons brigade of three small regiments. I took one battery with me. Upon reaching the railroad at Chester Station, I divided my command, sending two reginients of infantry, under Colonel White, Fifty-fifth Pennsylvania, with one piece of artillery mounted on a platform car, up the track to attack the works in front, while with the balance of the force under General Terry I made a wide detour of several miles by a blind road through the woods, so as to turn the works and take them in rear. About the time the head of Terrys column came in sight of the enemys works, Whites command had engaged them in front. General Terry opened upon the works with a piece of artillery, as soon as lie got within range, as an indication to Colonel White that a posi- tion in rear of the enemy had been gained. We found the enemy in force and strongly intrenched, the extreme right of theirihue rest- ing on Wooldridge Hill, a very commanding position about half a mile west of the railroad. The works had a return fronting the road on which Terry approached. General Terry was ordered to storm the hill while Colonel White engaged the enemy in front. The storming party recoiled under the severe fire brought to bear upon them, and while preparing for another assault in larger force, the enemy evacuated the position in haste, passing down their line of intrenchments toward Drewrys Bluff. We pressed them until dark, obtaining possession of about a mile of their line. The Third New Hampshire, Lieutenant-Colonel Plimpton, behaved gallantly in this assault. On the morning of the 14th I moved down the line of works and formed a junction with Turners division, Tenth Corps, occupying at that time the left of General Smiths line. The enemy retired before us, leaving about 2~- miles of their advanced line of intrench- ments in our possession. During the 14th the enemy were pressed back into a second line of .works~ as formidable to all appearances as the first, diverging from it to the westward, with its right well re- fused. Where these two lines cross the railroad they are about a mile apart. From their general direction I judge the second to be but a branch of the first, forming a junction with it in front of Drewrys Bluff, near James River. Both lines are judiciously located, of great strength, naturally and artificially; have deep ditches on their exterior at all available points, and are arranged for defense by both infantry and artillery. Throughout the day a~d night of the 15th we lay before this line, the skirmishers on both sides being constantly, and the artillery frequently, engaged. BATTLE OF DREWRYS BLUFF. Early on the morning of the 16th, under cover of a dense fog, the enemy made a fierce attack upon the right of General Smiths line, attempting to turn it. About 6.20 a. m. I received the following dispatch from Major-General Butler, dated 6 a. in.: The enemy has advanced from his works on our right and made a vigorous dem- onstration there; a rapid movement on the left would, I think, carry his lines in your front. Make it at once. About 6.30 a. m. the enemy made an assault upon General Terrys front in force and were reptdsed. At 6.40 a. m. I sent Major-Gen- eral Butler the following dispatch: Your orders to charge the enemys line will be oheyed as soon as the troops are ready. Terry has just repulsed an assault on his part of the line Page 38 38 OPERATIONS IN SE. VA. AND N. C. (CHAP. XLVIII. Two other assaults upon General Terrys front followed in rapid succession. At 7.01 a. m. I sent General Butler the following dispatch: There have been three assaults on General Terrys front; each has been repulsed handsomely. The assaults were in force. If I move to the assault and meet a repulse, our loss would be fearful. About 7.15 a. m. I received your order to send a regiment then on its way to join me from the intrenchments to report to General Smith on his extreme right. I sent the order at once. At 7.40 a. m. a regiment was taken from Turners line and sent to General Smith, and soon after two regiments from General Terrys division were also sent to General Smith. In the mean time General Brooks, command- ing the division of the Eighteenth Corps next on my right, moved some of his troops to the right, and General Turner, commanding my right division, also moved to the right to close the gap. At this time the following dispatch was sent: MAY 16, 18647.25 a. m. General BUTLER: I have just heard the report that General Brooks right is turned and a 20- pounder battery taken. General Turner sends me the report. I am ready to as- sault, but shall wait until I hear from you, as I may have to support Smith. Please answer soon. Very respectfully, Q. A. GILLMORE, Major-General. The above dispatch was returned to me with the following in- dorsement: No truth in report. Send regiment, and use discretion as to assault. B. F. B. The following order next came, without date: As General Smiths right is attempted to be turned, we are moving to the right. Keep up the connection by moving to left (right). B. F. BUTLER, Major-General. Lieutenant Michie, of the Engineers, delivered to me a verbal order from the major-general commanding, as follows: Move by your right flank so as to join on to General Smiths left, as the enemy are fighting us at Ware Bottom Church. My whole command was soon in motion to the right. At 8.34 a. m. I sent a dispatch to the commanding general that my whole command was moving down the intrenchments as directed. I now determined to exercise the discretion left with me as to making an assault by throwing Terrys and Turners divisions upon the flank of the enemys column, then pressing back the right of General Smiths line. Orders to that effect were sent to Generals Terry and Turner, and their commands were soon in motion, as directed. Soon after this I received from you the following dispatch, without date: General Brooks is falling back to his second line. Weitzel is also tailing back. Press re-enforcements to the right. Those two regiments are not yet in sight. You must govern your line according to movements on your right. J. W. SHAFFER, Colonel and Chief of Staff Page 39 CHAP. XLVIII.] SOUTH SIDE OF THE JAMES. 39 The withdrawal of Brooks and Weitzel on the right was soon con- firmed, and the enemy had reached the brick honse where General Smith had his headquarters in the morning. With two regiments nnder General Marston and the Fourth New Hampshire, then moving from the extreme left to the right, I formed a line in rear of the center of my position, covering the entrance to a road leading to the rear. This was accomplished, and General Butler informed at 9.30 a. m. About this time I received verbal orders to move to the pike and cover Smiths left. About 9,50 the following written order came: 9.80. General GILLMORE: The enemy is pressing around our right. Smith has fallen back to near Half-Way House. The enemy is near Dr. Howletts. You must fall back, press to right, and get in rear of Smiths corps. He will try and hold his ground until you get in his rear and clear the road to the intrenchments, so that we may get back behind the defenses. Push vigorously. By command of General Butler: J. W SHAFFEII, Colonel and Chief of Staff. Smith will have to fall back and hold road in rear of his right. Gilimore must hold pike. Information is clear that they are pressing across river fast. J. W. SHAFFER. The staff officer who delivered the above order, when asked for. an explanation of the last paragraph, said that the enemy was receiving re-enforcements from the other side of James River, and that it was feared that our retreat to the intrenchments would be cut off. Th~ Half-Way House mentioned is a little more than half a mile in rear of the brick house occupied as General Smiths headquarters in the morning. General GILLMORE: Lieutenant Davenport reports no fighting at Ware Bottom Church, nor on our right. I sent him back to see and report. Hold the road to intrenchments at all hazards. I send Shaffers dispatch. No prisoners have been captured but from the North Carolina brigades. B. F. BUTLER. Up to this time Generals Terry and Turner still held the front line along which their commands had moved by the right flank to keep up the connection with General Smiths left. They were both actively engaged under the orders to attack the enemy in flank, and could not withdraw quickly without great loss. A part of their commands not engaged had been sen to the rear. Peremptory orders to retire were at once sent to Generals Terry and Turner. The final withdrawal of the troops engaged began a~bout 10.15 a. in., just as I received the following order: IN FIELDlO oclock. General GILLMORE: The commanding general directs that you move to your right and rear of Smith to hold the turnpike, Smith pressing to his right to hold a road there. Smith cant move till you reach the turnpike. Get there at once. The troops at General Ames old position at junction are forced back. If you dont reach the pike at once we must lose it or the short road on right of Smith. Press strongly. This is per- emptory. We will lose turnpike unless you hurry. By command of General Butler~ J. W. SHAFFER, Colonel and Chief of Staff Page 40 40 OPERATIONS IN SE. VA. AND N. C. [Cit& p. XLVIIL I reached a position on the pike in rear of the Half-Way House abont noon, where I was informed that the entire command was to retire to our intrenchments. General Terry furnished the rear guard from his division. The enemy did not follow or annoy ns, but on the following day established himself in our front and in- trenched himself so as to cover the railroad. On the 20th a vig- orous attack was made on my pickets and possession gained of the advance rifle-pits on General Ames front, and a portion of General Terrys. General Ames attempted to recover his gronnd but failed. On General Terrys front the line was re~eTstablished by Colonel Howells brigade, after a severe and sanguinary fight. Colonel Howell condncted the attack with great skill and gallantry. Onr loss on that day was 702. The enemy acknowledge to a loss of 800, including Brig. Gen. W. S. Walker, wounded and taken prisoner. In the several actions from the 7th to the 20th, the Tenth Corps lost an aggregate of 3,387 in killed, wounded, and missing. The missing, about 800. were mostly killed or badly wounded in the bat- tle of Drewrys Bluff. To my division commanders and the members of my staff I am under obligations for most efficient co-operation and aid. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, Q. A. GILLMORE, Major-General. Col. J. W. SHAFFER, Chief of Staff, Dept. of Va. and N. C. A DDENDA. Itinerary of the Tenth Army Gorps, May 5-June 112. * May 5.Corps proceeded to Bermuda Hundred, Chesterfield County, Va., and commenced disembarking. May 6.Completed disembarkation and commenced intrench- ments near Ware Bottom Church. May 7.Action at Port Walthall Junction. May 9.Action at Swift Creek; destroyed portion of Petersburg and Richmond Railroad. May 10.Action at Chester Station. May 13.Outer line of works on Drewrys Bluff carried by Third New Hampshire and Fifty-fifth Pennsylvania Volunteers. May 16.Repulsed repeated attacks of the enemy and retired to intrenchments; numerous skirmishes on the picket-line during the remainder of the month. May 27.Infantry of divisions of Generals Turner and Ames temporarily assigned to duty with the Eighteenth Corps, and re- organized by Major-General Smith, commanding. June 1.The Second and Third Divisions, accompanying com- mand of Major-General Smith, moved to Cold Harbor and parti- cipated in that engagement. June 12.The Second and Third Divisions re-embarked at White House and rejoined the corps. * From returns for May and June Page 41 CHAP. XLVIII.] SOUTH SIDE OF THE JAMES. 41 No. 11. Report of Brig. Gen. Alfred H. Terry, U. S. Army, commanding First Division, of operations 3liay 1216. HEADQUARTERS FIRST DIvIsION, TENTH CORPS, In the Field, Curtis, J$iliay 17, 1864. COLONEL: I have the honor to submit a preliminary and informal report of the operations of my division from the 12th to the 16th instant, inclusive: On the first-named day, at about oclock, I received from the major-general commanding instructions to move with two of my brigades and two batteries out of the intrenchments and place them in support of the force which, under command of Major~Genera1 Smith, was moving up the Richmond and Petersburg turnpike, and by the bank of the James River. In obedience to this order, I re- ported to him on the old turnpike with Plaisteds and Hawleys bri- gades, each consisting of three regiments (the fourth regiment of each being at the time on picket), and with Warrens and Rockwells batteries; During the afternoon my force was moved to and up the turnpike to Perdues house, where it bivouacked for the night. While here Col. R. White, of the Fift~*~fifth Pennsylvania Volun- teers, with two regiments from Ames division, viz, the Fifty-fifth Pennsylvania Volunteers and the Fourth New Hampshire, by direc- tion of General Gillmore, reported to me. In the morning of the 13th my force, under the immediate command of the major-general commanding the corps, moved to Chester Station, and thence by a long and circuitous route through the woods west of the railroad to a position in rear of the right of the first of the enemys line of in- trenchments defending Richmond from the south. At the station Colonel Whites command was detached, and, accompanied by one piece of artillery, placed on a car by Captain Langdon, chief of artil- lery, proceeded up the railroad to attack in front, while the main body should turn the enemys flank. After a painful and fatiguing march our main column arrived directly on the flank of the enemys works. The Third Regiment New Hampshire Voluhteers, under Lieut. Col. J. I. Plimpton, was then, by the order of the major-gen- eral commanding the corps, directed to make a detour still farther to our left, and gain the rear of the position. This was soon accom- plished, and the regiment immediately attacked. The enemys works were uninclosed, but were placed on a high, rounded ridge, and pre- sented a bastioned trace fronting on and flanking the railroad. The works were defended by a formidable force, and when taken in re- verse these threw themselves on the exterior slope of the parapet, and under its protection poured a deadly fire upon our troops. The Third New Hampshire charged up the hill in the most gallant and determined manner, and nearly reached the works, but the disparity of force was so great that they were ordered to fall back. They did so, leaving the ground covered with their men, having in a few min- utes lost over 100 in killed and wounded. As soon as the firing con~menced, by order of General Gillmore, I took up the Seventh Connecticut and Seventh New Hampshire Regi- ments in support of the one already engaged, but before they were brought into action the enemy, threatened upon the front of the works by Colonel Whites column and shelled by Langdon from th Page 42 42 OPERATIONs IN SE. VA. AND ~. C. [CHAP. XLVIII. railroad, abandoned their position. The night was passed upon the hill in the captured works. On the morning of the 14th Brigadier- General Marston, with three regiments of his brigade and the Thirty-ninth Illinois of my division, reported to me. During the night of the 13th heavy skirmishing took place on the railroad at the foot of the hill. In the morning I received and obeyed an order to move toward the turnpike and connect my right with the left of Turners division. This movement brought my force directly in front of the enemys second line of works. My division was formed in the following order, from right to left: Hawleys brigade on the right; then Plaisteds, Whites, with its left on the railroad and a little retired, and later in the day Marstons, on the west of the rail- road. My right and center was in a low, wooded, and marshy val- ley, directly in front of which arose the ridge upon which was placed the enemys formidable chain of works, those in front of the right and center consisting of three heavy redoubts, connected by strong infantry parapets. On the left of the railroad was an equally strong redoubt, from which the line turning sharply to the north and flanking the road was visible for at least a mile. This chain, in all probability, extends to and rests upon Falling Creek. The remainder of the day and the following night were spent in active skirmishing with the enemys advanced posts. On the morning of the 15th, Marstons command, consisting of three regiments of his brigade and the Thirty-ninth Illinois, was pushed forward in front of the redoubt on the west of the railroad in support of Rockwells battery, sent to the same point, and Warrens battery was placed on the right of the road in front of White. The day was spent in skirmishing, in getting our batteries into position, and in a heavy cannonade upon the redoubt directly in front of my right. The enemys sharpshooters and skirmishers were very annoying, and a strong effort was made to drive them in. For this purpose the first lines of Hawleys and Plaisteds brigades advanced in the most gal- lant manner up the hill, and secured a partially protected position within 300 yards of the works. This position was never afterward lost until orders were given to fall back, on the morning of the 16th, although several desperate charges were made upon it by the enemy. During the afternoon I was directed by the major-general commanding to examine the redoubt on my right, with reference to the practicability of taking it by assault. I did so, and reported that it was a strong work of high relief, and at least partially covered by an abatis; that an assault would in all probability sacrifice many men, with a doubtful result. Under the supposition that the redoubt directly in Marstons front was the extreme left of the enemys line, I also examined the ground in that vicinity with reference to a turning movement similar to that by which we had obtained possession of the first line of works. This examination dis- closed the existence of the chain spoken of above, and demonstrated the impossibility of the operation unless attempted by a large force moving on an arc of very considerable radius. During the after- noon one of General Marstons regiments was placed upon the hill captured on the 13th, with an outpost of four companies at Salem Church, on the Chesterfield road, and th~ First New York Mounted. Rifles, under Colonel Onderdonk, which had reported to me, were directed to connect the church with Marstons left by a chain of vedettes. The Eleventh Maine Volunteers, of Plaisteds brigade Page 43 CHAP. XLVIII.] SOUTH SIDE OF THE JAMES. which reported during the afternoon, wemi5 also sent to the hill. At night-fall the batteries were withdrawn from their advanced position and the infantry were directed to intrench themselves. Shortly after dark the enemy made a vigorous assault npon Hawleys front, bnt they were thrown back upon their works with equal vigor. The night passed quietly. At daybraak the next morning the fire of skirmishers commenced along my whole front and along the line to my right. This soon increased to a very heavy firing of musketry and artillery, and it became evident that the enemy, taking advan- tage of a dense fog to conceal the movement, was endeavoring to force our lines. I soon received orders from Major-General Gillmore to prepare for an assault upon the works, and also to send, to report to Major-General Smith, two of my regiments. The preparations for an assault were soon made, and the Seventh New Hampshire and the Eleventh Maine Volunteers were sent to the Half-Way House on the turnpike. While this was in progress, the enemy made three assaults on my right and center, leaping over their works, and ad- vancing with great speed and determination. In each case they were driven back with great loss, having made no impression what- ever on our lines. Soon after this detachment was made, I received from Major-General Gillmore information that he intended to move Turners division and my own by the right flank toward the turn- pike, and attack in flank that portion of the enemys force who were pressing in that direction. He also directed me to leave a strong chain of skirmishers to conceal the movement. The execution of this order had just commenced and the regiments were on the march when General Gillmore again informed me that he had received or- ders to fall back to the rear of General Smith, and directed me to take the by-paths leading from our position to the turn p ike near Proctors Creek. This was at about 10 a. m. Scarcely had I re- ceived this order when the enemy agaimr charged upon Turners division and my right and center. For a moment their fire of artil- lery and musketry was very severe, but they were soon repulsed, and, as I must believe, with heavy loss. After this repulse I again re- ceived orders to move to the rear and gain the turnpike. This move- ment was effected with scarcely any molestation from the enemy. The Twenty-fourth Massachusetts and the Tenth Connecticut, of Plaisteds brigade, were sent to re-enforce the troops already at the Half-Way House. The Seventh Connecticut and Third New Hamp- shire, of Hawleys brigade, were put in position on a hill just in ad- vance of Proctors Creek, and the remainder of my command was formed near Perdues house. I ~oon received instructions from Major-General Butler in person to take command of the troops at the Half-Way House, and to remain there until the whole of Briga- dier-General Brooks command, then retiring on the right, should have passed that point. While awaiting the passage of these troops, the enemy opened upon us with artillery at short range. Two sections of James battery on our right immediately replied and soon silenced them. After the withdrawal of General Brooks force, in obedience to my orders, the whole of my command was withdrawn and re- turned to the intrenchments. All these movements were effected in perfect order, and without confusion, and no words of mine can do justice to the calmness, firmness, and courage of the officers and men of my command. I shall take some other occasion to report the names of those who particularly distinguished themselves. Page 44 44 OPERATIONS IN SE. VA. AND N. C. [CHAP. XLVIII. regret to say that my loss is heavy, amounting to something over 1,300 men in the regiments of my division proper, without counting ~he commands of General Marston and Colonel White, from whom I have no returns. I forward herewith nominal lists* of the killed, wounded, and missing. I have the honor to be, very respectfully, your obedient serv- ant, ALFRED H. TERRY, Brigadier-General. Lient. Col. E. W. SMITH, Assistant Adjutant- General. ADDENDA. Itinerary of the First Division, Tenth Army Corps, May 4June 9. t May 4.Brig. Gen. A. H. Terry took command of the division; embarked on steamers at Gloucester Point, Va., and proceeded to James River. May 5.Proceeded up James River to Bermuda Hundred and commenced disembarkation. May 6.Completed disembarkation and proceeded to near Ware Bottom Church. May 7.Three regiments of Third Brigade detached and, report- ing to Maj. Gen. W. F. Smith, participated in action near Port Walthall Junction. flfay 9.The First and Second Brigades moved on Petersburg and Richmond Railroad at Chester Station and Port Walthall Junction; Second Brigade in reserve at action on Swift Creek. May 10.Part of First and Second Brigades in action at Chester Station. May 12.The Second and Third and part of First Brigades en- gaged in movement on Drewrys Bluff. May 13.Outer line of enemys works carried by Third New Hampshire and Fifty-fifth Pennsylvania, of Ames division. May 14 and 15.Engaged from time to time with enemy in front of their works. May 16.Severely engaged with enemy, whose repeated attacks on the troops of the division were uniformly repulsed. In obedience to orders from Major-General Butler, retired to intrenchments. May 20.The enemy attackedthe pickets in front of the division and in front of Ames division. The picket-line was driven and the enemy occupied our rifle-pits. The line was afterward regained by a charge of the First Brigade, re-enforced by the Sixth Connecticut and One hundred and forty-second New York Volunteers, of Turners divmsmon. At various times too numerous to mention during the month skir- mishing took place on the picket-line in front of our intrenchments. June 1 and 2.Heavy skirmishing in front of intrenchments. June 9.Movement upon Petersburg, under command of Major General Gilimore, in which the Second Brigade took part. * Embodied in revised statement, p. 13. ~ From returns for May and June Page 45 CHAP. XLVIII.] SOUTH SIDE OF THE JAMES. 45 No. 12. Report of Col. Joshua B. Howell, Eighty-fifth Pennsylvania In fantry, commanding First Brigade, of operations May 910. HDQRS. FIRST BRIG., FIRST Div., TENTH ARMY CORPS Near Bermuda Hundred, Va., May 11, 1864. SIR: In pursuance of instructions from division headquarters, directing from me a formal report of the operations of the different regiments of my command during the past two days, I have the honor to respectfully report that my brigade, consisting of the Eighty-fifth Pennsylvania Volunteers, Lieutenant-Colonel Campbell commanding; Thirty-ninth Illinois Volunteers, Col. T. 0. Osborn commanding; Sixty-seventh Ohio Volunteers, Col. A. C. Voris com- manding, and the Eleventh Maine Volunteers, Lieutenant-Colonel Spofford commanding (the last temporarily assigned to me in place of the Sixty-second Ohio Volunteers, Colonel Pond, being on de- tached service), was in line on the 9th instant (May) at 4.30 a. in., and proceeded with the division on the expedition. At a point on the line of march where a road leading to Ware Bottom Church diverged, it havino been ascertained by the brigadier-general com- manding the division that there were some of the enemy in that direction, and between that point and the church, the Eighty-fifth Pennsylvania Volunteers and Thirty-ninth Illinois Volunteers were ordered by the general, under the command of Colonel Osborn, to proceed toward the church and drive the enemy, which they did promptly. These two regiments took position at the church, in obedience to instructions, and remained there; and, in advance with the Sixty-seventh Ohio and Eleventh Maine, I proceeded with the main column of the division to the turnpike leading from Petersburg to Richmond. The Sixty-seventh Ohio Volunteers, under command of Colonel Voris, was left in position on the turnpike at the brow of a hill, commanding a view of everything beyond them in the direc- tion of Richmond. The position was gallantly held by the gallant colonel and his brave regimentofficers and enlisted mdn. The enemy were in force in front of them. With the Eleventh Maine I proceeded with the main body to the railroad. Beyond the Chestem~ Depot and in the direction of Petersburg, I was ordered by the brmg~ adier-general commanding the division to return to Ware Bottom Church, and take with me the Eleventh Maine and to assume com- mand of all the troops at the church. I did so, arriving at that place the afternoon of the same day. On the return of the reginient the enlisted men suffered greatly from the oppressive heat and fatigue of the march, which they bore with cheerfulness and fortitude, anxious to perform their duty faith- fully; there was little or no straggling. On arriving at Ware Bot- tom Church and assuming command there, I discovered that the position taken for the troops had been judiciously selected and the pickets skillfully posted. I proceeded with Colonel Osborn at once to ascertain the localities around and about there; the whereabouts of roads and their convergences. I proceeded at once to make all further necessary arrangements to hold the position and make such other changes as I thought proper. Four pieces of Captain Lang- dons battery reported to me in the evening. In this connection I beg leave to adopt as part of my report ex- tracts from the reports of Colonel Osborn and Lieutenant-Colone Page 46 46 OPERATIONS 1W SE. VA. AND N. C. [CHAP. XLVIII. Campbell, of events which occurred prior to my assuming command of the forces at Ware Bottom Church: From Colonel Osborns report: I was ordered by General Terry to proceed forward with the Eighty-fifth Penn- sylvania Volunteers and Thirty-ninth Illinois Volunteers on the road on the right of our column to Bottom Church to form on the right and hold it until relieved by a column of cavalry. I at once threw forward the Eighty-fifth Pennsylvania Vol- unteers as skirmishers, the Thirty-ninth Illinois Volunteers supporting. At or near Bottom Church we met the enemys pickets or skirmishers and drove them back beyond Dr. Howletts house and there took our position until relieved by Colonel Howell, about 3 p.m., the most of my regiment remaining on picket. During the night following the rest of the regiment remained at the forks of the road leading to Richmond and Petersburg. During the night and day following the enemys pickets or skirmishers often made their appearance. Shots were exchanged dur- ing our stay at the front. No casualties occurred in my command. From Colonel Campbells report: I deployed the Eighty-fifth Pennsylvania Volunteers according to orders and pushed forward rapidly to the church, driving from there a company of rebel cay- valry. As near as I discovered some of them were wounded by our fire, but none fell into our hands. Immediately on reaching the church General Foster, chief of General Gillmores staff, rode up and ordered me to move my line of skirmishers forward at once. I pushed them forward accordingly until the right rested at Dr. Howletts house, on the bank of the James River; there I halted, having driven the enemy into the woods beyond Dr. Howletts. About 10 a. m. my line was relieved by the First U. S. Colored Cavalry. Just as this was accomplished, however, it was discovered to be a mistake, the cavalry having orders to proceed on up the road to- ward the Richmond turnpike. Colonel Osborn corrected this and relieved the cav- alry with a part of the Thirty-ninth Illinois Volunteers, and ordered me to take posi- tion in line of battle at the church. This position I held until Colonel Howell came on the ground, about 12 in., and assumed command. By his order I moved a little to the left and formed in line of battle abreast of the church and in support of Bat- tery M, First U. S. Artillery. The main body of the regiment remained in this posi- tion until I received orders to return to camp. About dark on the evening of the 10th General Foster ordered me to send a detachment up the James River to destroy some torpedoes planted on the river by the rebels. I sent two oompanies, under command of Captain Hughes, of Company C, and for details refer you to his report accom- panying this. On the morning of the 10th, having ascertained from colored peo- ple that the enemy were coming down upon me in considerable force, I made additional arrangements to give them a warm and effectual reception; got my pieces in position, threw up breast-works and rifle-pits, and had all the roads approaching me well commanded. I had all my forces in line and well in hand. A stimulus to renewed and unusual efforts for preparations was given by a dispatch re- ceived from General Terry to the effect : Your left is seriously threatened; hold it firmly, or you peril our safety. I would have held it firmly. About this time I opened communication with Col- onel Voris. I believe the general saw afterward the means I had adopted to hold that place. I beg leave here to mention that on the morning of the 10th Captain Langdon, of the U. S. Artillery, reported to me in person, and I desire to speak in the highest terms of the skill, energy, promptness, and the valuable assistance which he, his officers, and the men of his command, afforded me. Captain Warren, with his battery, and other officers with batteries, whose nanies I do not now reniember, came to my support, and the same tribute is due to them. I do not re6ollect the hour, but some time during the forenooii, a dispatch from General Terry to the effect: The rebels are strong in my front. Cannot you attack them in flank and rear? Do it at once if you can Page 47 CHAP. XLVIII.] SOUTH SIDE OF THE JAMES. 47 I at once ascertained the position of the enemy and commenced the attack. The wood and underwood was so thick between me and the enemy I had therefore to use great care that I might not fire on our own troops. The fire from my pieces was most rapid and beau- tiful. Officers and men attached to them deserve the highest credit for their skill and the anxiety they manifested to perform their duty. I have been gratified by the assurance that the fire was very effectual. The farther advance of the enemy ceased. At 5.30 oclock in the evening I received an order from General Gillmore to withdraw my forces within the intrenchments, except a strong picket on the line which I then occupied, which I did. I take occasion to remark here that Colonel Barton reported promptly to me with his brigade. I desire here to speak in the highest terms of praise of the gallantry and firmness nianifested by the regiments of my old bri- gade, including the Eleventh Maine, temporarily assigned to me, both officers and men. This will apply to all the other troops which composed my force. As Colonel Voris command was made up largely of other forces besides his own regiment, and as he was act- ing exclusively under orders directly from corps or division head- quarters, he has made his report* directly to you, which I respect- fully transmit herewith. I beg leave also to transmit the reportf of Captain Hughes with regard to torpedoes, referred to by Colonel Campbell. I have the honor to be, captain, with great respect, your obedient servant, JOSHUA B. HOWELL, Capt. ADRIAN TERRY, Colonel, Commanding Brigade. Assistant Adjutant-General. ADDENDA. Itinerary of the First Brigade, First Division, Tenth Army Corps, 11/lay 4-204 May 4.Embarked on transports at Gloucester Point, Va. May 5.Left that place in the morning, and arrived at Bermuda Hundred, Va., same evening. May 6.Disembarked at that place and took the advance toward the Petersburg and Richmond Railroad, the Thirty-ninth Illinois Volunteers leading in skirmishing order; bivouacked near the present line of iiitrenchments. May 9.Moved from the intrenchments toward Chester Station. The Eighty-fifth Pennsylvania and Thirty-ninth Illinois Volunteers, under command of Col. Thomas 0. Osborn, moved out as skirmish- ers on the right flank and advanced to Howletts house. The Sixty- seventh Ohio Volunteers, Colonel Voris, was advanced on the Richmond turnpike to cover our right, while engaged in destroying the railroad. The Sixty-second Ohio Volunteers, Colonel Pond, was detailed, by order of General Butler, for duty at the post of Ber- muda Hundred on the 6th. May 10.The Sixty-seventh Ohio Volunteers were attacked by the enemy in force, and steadily held the line until re-enforced and relieved by fresh troops. Same night the whole command returned * Not found, ~ See p.49. ~ From return for May Page 48 48 OPERATIONS IN SE. VA. AND N. C. [CHAP. XLVIII. to their intrenchments. The brigade was left inside of the intrench- ments, when our troops advanced to Proctors Creek, Colonel Howell being left in command of the forces at the intrenchments. May 15.The Thirty-ninth Illinois Volunteers ordered by Gen- eral Butler to convoy an ammunition train to General Gillmore, near Drewrys Bluff. May 16.The Thirty-ninth Illinois Volunteers engaged with the enemy; Col. T. 0. Osborn severely wounded. May 18.The Thirty-ninth Illinois Volunteers engaged in battle of Proctors Creek; Maj. S. S. Linton severely wounded. The regi- ment returned with the whole command to the intrenchments. May 20.The brigade ordered by General Gillmore to move out and retake the rifle-pits from which our line had been forced by the enemy, which was promptly done, and our lines re-established, with a total loss of 149 killed and wounded. Lieut. Col. 0. L.. Mann, commanding Thirty-ninth Illinois Volunteers, severely wounded; since which time the brigade has been lying near the line of intrench- ments, engaged in the ordinary fatigue and picket duties. No. 13. Report of capt. Leroy A. Baker, Thirty-ninth illinois Infantry, of operations May 1416. HDQRS. THIRTY-NINTH ILLINOIS VETERAN VOLS., May 21, 1864. In compliance with instructions from division headquarters, I have the honor to report that on the morning of the 14th instant the Thirty-ninth Regiment Illinois Volunteers was ordered to accom- p any a supply train to Half-Way, a station on the Richmond and P etersburg Railroad, where we arrived about noon. Colonel Os- born, then commanding the regiment, at once reported to General Gillmore for further instructions, and was assigned to General Mars- tons command on the extreme left of the line. We had some brisk skirmishing with the enemy during the afternoon, in which Colonel Osborn was wounded. On the morning of the 15th we received or- ders to intrench ourselves, and the Ninety-sixth Pennsylvania and - Eighty-first New York Regiments were sent to our support, the three regiments forming the line running west from the railroad to the timber. We had but little skirmishing during the day, and employed ourselves in digging a strong line of rifle-pits. The morning of the 16th we were well prepared for the fight. Early in the morn- ing the Ninety-sixth and Eighty-first were taken from us to strengthen some other position, and we deployed so as to occupy the whole line. At 8 oclock the enemy charged upon our works steadily and splendidly. We reserved our fire until they were within very short range. When we opened upon them they staggered, rallied, charged again, recoiled; then rallied and charged the third time. Our fire was too hot for them, however, and they fled in confusion, leaving the field literally covered with their dead and wounded. We now discovered that the forces had given back upon our right and were fighting nearly a mile in our rear. Our ammunition was entirely expended, there was no course left but to retreat. Collect- ing the wounded, we then fell back in order, receiving but a wea Page 49 CHAP. XLVIII.] SOUTH SIDE OF THE JAMES. 49 fire from the rebels upon our flanks. On reaching the fort on Hos- pital Hill, we were ordered to the rear, and arrived inside of our present line of works at 9 p. m. We entered the fight with about ~i5O men; our losses were 122 killed and wounded. Among the killed were 2 captains and the adjutant; and the colonel, major, 1 captain and 2 lieutenants were wounded. I have the honor to be, with great respect, your obedient servant, LEROY A. BAKER, Captain, Commanding Regiment. ADJUTANT-GENERAL EIGHTEENTH ARMY CORPS. No. 14. Report of crapt. Robert P. Haghes, Eighty-fifth Pennsylvania In fantry, of operations May 10. BERMUDA HUNDRED, VA., May 11, 1864. COLONEL: In accordance with your instructions, I proceeded with Companies C and H to destroy the torpedo station on James River. We proceeded without any opposition until within about 600 yards of the station, when the enemys outposts opened upon our advance, to which we paid no attention and soon reached the stati6n, but the firing of the outposts had beei~ sufficient to alarm the agents of the station, for we found their supper on the table and everything de- noted a hasty departure. Upon carefully searching, we found in the sand back of the house some rope; upon drawing it found it firmly attached to something, but the rope gave way without any explo- sion, much to our surprise. But we then discovered that the explo- sion was caused by using a galvanic battery. We then proposed to trace the course of the rope to the waters edge, and by that means draw the torpedo attached to the shore, but the rope giving way under ground we were again foiled. We then made search for signs of it at the waters edge, but none could be discovered. We then fired the buildings connectpd with the station, and an old building near by, and returned to camp without casualty, after an absence of one hour. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, R. P. HUGHES, Captain, Eighty-fifth Pennsylvania Volunteers. No. 1~i. Reports of Col. Joseph R. Hawley, Seventh Connecticut Infantry, commanding Second Brigade, of operations May 9June 2. HDQRS. SECOND BRIG., FIRST Dlv., TENTH CORPS, Bermuda Hundred, Va., May 11, 1864. SIR: I have the honor to report, concerning the part taken by this brigade in the movements of May 9 and 10, that the brigade 4 R RYOL XXXvI, PT Page 50 50 OPERATIONS IN Si1~. VA. AND N. C. [CHAP. XLVIII. consisting of the Seventh New Hampshire, Colonel Abbott; Sev- enth Connecticut, Lieutenant-Colonel Rodman commanding; Third New Hampshire, Lieutenant-Colonel Plimpton commanding, and Sixth Connecticut, Colonel Duryeeleft its bivouac near the James River about 7 a. m. May 9, following the First (Colonel Howells) Brigade of this division. We moved to the Richmond and Peters- burg turnpike, near the house of one Winfree, there halting some time; thence to Chester Station, halting again; thence down the railroad track toward Petersburg, between 12 and 2 oclock of a very hot day, to a house just below the Port Walthall Junction. At this point, to my great regret, IL was compelled by illness to turn over the command, with General Terrys consent, to Colonel Abbott, the next in rank, and the next morning to betake myself to camp. The labors of the brigade during the remainder of the 9th, and its efficient services in the engagement of the 10th, at Chester Station, will be found recounted in the report* of Colonel Abbott, which I forward herewith, adding only that the aggregate loss was 51. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, JOS. R. HAWLEY, Colonel Seventh Connecticut, Commanding Brigade. Capt. A. TERRY, Assistant Adjutant- General, First Division. HDQR5. SECOND BRIG., FIRsT DIV., TENTH CORPS, Bermuda Hundred Intrenchments, Va., May 17, 1864. SIR: I have the honor to report for the information of Brig. Gen. A. H. Terry, commanding division, the movements and labors of this brigade from May 12 to May 16, inclusive, being the part they took in the advance of the Eighteenth and Tenth Corps toward Drewrys Bluff: The brigade left its camp near the line about to be fortified about 3a.m. May 12, and consisted of the Seventh Connecticut, Lieut. Col. Daniel C. Rodman commanding, 21 officers and 610 men; the Seventh New Hampshire, Col. Joseph C. Abbott, 24 officers and 330 men, and the Third New Hampshire, Lient. Col. Josiah I. Plimpton commanding, 26 officers and 700 men. Total, 71 officers and 1,640 men. The Sixth Connecticut, Col. Redfield Duryee, was on picket, but came up the next day, under Lieutenant-Colonel Meeker, and was placed in Colonel Alfords brigade, of General Turners division, where it remained during the expedition. My brigade followed Colonel Plaisteds (the Third), of this division. Moved to the Richmond and Petersburg turnpike, near Chester Station; turned northward and bivouacked at Perdues house, fur- nishing 300 men for picket duty. Two men of the Seventh Con- necticut were wounded on picket. About 6 a. m. of the 13th we left the turn p ike and crossed the Richmond and Petersburg Railroad at Clover H ill Junction, moving to the northwest by obscured and con- cealed paths and road~ to a fine public road north of Salem Church; thence we turned sharply to the right, following a portion of the Third Brigade, toward the rear of the right of the rebel line of earth-works, which stretched from the James River, in front of Fort * Not found Page 51 Cn~. XLVIII.] SOUTH SIDE OF THE JAMES. 51 Darling, westerly across the turnpike and railroad. The right of these works is protected by a creek and swamp running from south- west to northeast close by them. Our road crossed the creek and passed close under the elevation crowned by the right of the works. Skirmishers of the Twenty-fourth Massachusetts, Colonel Osborn, were ahead of us as we approached the swamp. The Third New Hampshire was here detached and ordered to the left, some dis- tance down the creek, to cross it by a broken bridge, and assault the works in the rear. Having the Seventh Connecticut and Seventh New Hampshire de- ployed on the right and left of the main road, facing the swamp, I was ordered to charge the work visible over the causeway across the swamp, the narrow road passing right under the works, which were on a considerable elevation. Major Brooks, of Major-General Gill- mores staff; having just reported the morass impassable, I reported the fact to General Terry, who immediately ordered me to follow and snppo~t Lieutenant-Colonel Pliinpton, who by this time had become fiercely engaged. Moving in the direction of the sounds, I brought the regiments into column in an open field, and they hurried forward with enthusiasm. As we neared the road by which the Third New Hampshire crossed the swamp, we met Major Randlett, of the Third New Hampshire, and a large number of the Third coming back wounded. Lieutenant-Colonel Plimpton soon appeared, reporting that his regiment was in danger on his left flank, on which the enemy appeared to be coming. The Seventh New Hampshire was ordered across the creek, and it went over and up through the strip of woods, where it formed on the edge of the field, covering the Third, which had met largely superior forces, and after a most gallant fight, hav- ing advanced up the field to a house and outbuildings, forcing the enemy to jump over their works and fight from the front of them, had been forced to retire. The Seventh Connecticut was about to follow the Seventh New Hampshire across the swamp, when it being reported that the work was apparently inclosed ( a re-entering por- tion of it having certainly that look from the rear), and that forces were moving to attack the left flank of our column, the Seventh Connecticut was a little withdrawn, and moved off in line to meet such force. The Third New Hampshire, which had met at least one brigade (some prisoners reported two), had lost about 140 in a few minutes, and had taken 10 prisoners, was called back across the creek to reform. While my commanding officers halted a moment for consultation, and to discover the suspected movement against our flank, it was learned that Colonel White, of the Fifty-fifth Penn- sylvania, with that and the [Fourth New Hampshire] regiment com- ing up the railroad upon the front of the works about the time of our attack, had caused their evacuation and had entered a portion of them. We immediately moved over, and occupied half a mile of the right of this most important line. I threw out four companies of the Seventh Connecticut as a picket-line on the north, under Cap- tain Mills, and sent the Seventh New Hampshire down into a wood on the north side of the works to the railroad, to feel of a rebel light battery in sight toward the east, on the line supported by some infantry. Being unable to continue the movement beyond the rail- road, they formed a good picket-line connecting with Captain Mills from which they were relieved at 10 p. m. by the Tenth Connecticut. Colonel Abbotts demonstrations, with those of the Third Brigad Page 52 52 OPERATIONS IN SE. VA. AND N. C. [CITAP. XLVI1I. and Langdons artillery, drove the rebels out of sight, and the night passed (with a little sleep) in hastily strengthening our position. In the morning General Turners division appeared in the south- east, approaching the front of the works, whose right we had car- ried. Under orders I moved down, joined my right to the left of that division, and facing toward Richmond, advanced with the rest. I put in line the Seventh Connecticut and Seventh New Hamp- shire. with the Third New Hampshire in column doubled on the center, at half distance, in reserve. Advancing down the slope in an open field just east of house, I sent forward skirmishers of the Seventh Connecticut, who were soon engaged. They moved through the wood about 200 yards to another field. Up a gentle slope about 400 yards distant was a fine house with garden fences and outbuildings, and beyond that nearly 400 yards, a formidable line of earth-works extending far eastward, and apparently well manned. I advanced my line to the line of skirmishers on the north edge of the woods, whence there was a steady interchange of shots with the rebels occupying the houses, and even with those of the main works. Their artillery also endeavored to annoy us. A nuin- ber of our men were killed or wounded. At my solicitation a piece of artillery was sent to me from which two shots were fired (the first aimed by myself) at the buildings. A shower of rifle-balls coming back the piece retired; the dwelling and one large outbuild- ing were soon in flames. The skirmishers of the division being ordered forward, I ordered mine from the Seventh Connecticut, under Captain Dennis, and they went up very handsomely under a heavy fire, so hot that it was necessary to relieve them two or three times. They drove the enemy out of the buildings, but lost heavily. Promptly on receiving an order to that effect I advanced with my line of battle, the two regiments moving in the finest style, with great cheering, up to the buildings and the summit of the slope. The Third New Hampshire followed to the edge of the wood. TINe line was but slightly protected, though the men worked with their usual ingenuity, and the fire from the works, both artillery and infantry, was at times very severe. The field pieces were frequently silenced, but they inflicted some injuries, among them fatally wounding a most gallant officer, Lieutenant Wood, Seventh Con- necticut Volunteers. On my right and left, so far as I could see, the rest of the corps had advanced only a strong skirmish line, even with our position. As the day wore away tediously, I received orders to hold this posi- tion, relieving at dark. When it was nearly dark, the enemy opened suddenly on us the most furious fire of musketry to which I ever listened. Without flinching, our two regiments as fiercely responded. The enemy began to come over their works to charge, but the fearful fire of our lines (the Spencer carbines here worked to good advantage) staggered and drove him back. The affair lasted scarcely two min- utes, when the enemy ceased firing and became altogether invisible amid the most triumphant cheers from our side. After dark I had the Third New Hampshire come silently up the slope in line and step into the positions of the other two regiments, which moved by the right of companies to the rear as silently to the south side of the wood, where they drew rations and bivouacked. The losses this day were: Seventh Connecticut, 92; Third New Hampshire, 8; Seventh New Hampshire, 17; total, 117; of which 17 were killed and 2 missing Page 53 CHAP. XLVIII.] SOUTH SIDE OF THE JAMES 53 The Third New Hampshire was furnished with a few shovels, and they very much strengthened their position. The night of the 14th and the day of the 15th wore slowly away with much picket-firing, particularly on our right, and frequent calls to arms. The Third New Hampshire lost 3 men killed and 5 wounded during the day. At night it was relieved by the Seventh Connecticut, under Major Sanford. the soreness of Lieutenant-Colonel Rodmans old wound and his exhaustion having compelled him to relinquish command on the evening of the 14th. At daylight on the morning of the 16th, there being an extremely dense fog, very heavy firing suddenly opened on our right in the direction of the Eighteenth Corps. I moved the Third and Seventh New Hampshire forward to the north edge of the wood in support of the Seventh C~nnecticut. Major Sanford had a few men in advance, who reported the enemy corning. It was not until it was within 50 or 75 yards that the enemys line became visible through the fog. The Seventh Connec- ticut opened an astonishingly rapid fire, lasting but a minute or two, and ceasing promptly at the bugle-call. The enemy was silent and invisible, and the brigade cheered most vehemently. With consid- erable intervals of time twice again the enemy made similar attempts, with the same results and the same exultations from our men. The enemy got down upon Sanfords right flank and began to enfilade his pits. I opened communication with Colonel Henry, Fortieth Massachusetts, next on my right, armed with Spencer carbines, and he advanced a portion of his command most handsomely, driving the enemy back (though at the cost of some men), and removing the danger, for which we gratefully thank him. By order of Gen- eral Terry, I sent the Seventh New Hampshire to the Half-Way House, on the turnpike, to re.port to General Smith and protect our communications. It lost there 1 officer and 3 men wounded by the mistaken fire of the Eighteenth Corps. It did not report to me again until it had returned to camp. Colonel Abbott had the Tenth New Hampshire with him then, and later in the day, being alone and seeing the enemy approach, Colonel Plaisted, with the Twenty- fourth Massachusetts and Tenth Connecticut, were sent to his sup- port for a short time. The fog began to lift after 7 oclock. I was ordered to prepare for an assault, or at least to make the appearance thereof. The Seventh Connecticut having no bayonets, I moved the Third New Hampshire up the slope to just in the rear of the Seventh Connecticut, arranging that when the pmoper time came the latter should open a furious fire, the Third charge, and the Seventh either follow the success or stand fast to check the repulse. Major San- ford threw forward a few sharpshooters, though but little could be done in that way. My next order was to leave a strong line of skir- mishers to hold the position and fall back through the woods, con- cealing the movement. The latter was impossible, and Major San- ford reported that he could hold his place against all attacks, but to do it he must have his whole regiment. The Third New Hampshire came rapidly back, partially protected from the hot fire which fol- lowed it by the return sent from the Seventh Connecticut. In obe- dience to another order, I directed Major Sanford to let his skir- mishers follow him, covering his rear. He had detailed nearly 150 to stay in the pit. Not all heard the order to follow back, and the enemy immediately coming over their works when the battalion left the pits, the gallant rear guard, resisting them fiercely, lost very lieavily in killed, wounded, and captured. The Third New Ramp Page 54 54 OPERA~CIONS IN SIR. VA. A~D 1~t. C. shire passed the woods, reformed, moved across the field, halted, and faced the enemy, a portion of the Third Brigade being on its left and General Turners division on its right. As the Seventh Con- necticut came up, I placed it in rear of the Third to close its ranks. The enemy soon appeared, coming through the belt of woods, often referred to, in fierce pursuit, and opening a violent fire. The Third New Hampshire advanced to meet them, returned and silenced their fire, turned them back, drove them to the woods, captured a lieutenant-colonel and major and 15 mOn, and strewed the ground with killed and wounded. Few feats of valor have been more hand- somely performed than this was. Sending the Seventh Connecticut back a short distance, under General Terrys order, before I could get the Third New Hampshire to join them, I received an order from Major-General Gillmore to fall back half a mile to a hill, where an ice-house stood, and hold the position. Arriving there with the Seventh Connecticut, Brigadier-General Foster, chief of staff, put the Ninety-sixth New York under my command, and I put the two in line. The Third New Hampshire soon came up. In an hour or two the IN inety-sixth was restored to its own brigade, and we fol- lowed the Third Brigade of this division to the turnpike, halting once and facing the enemy for an hour, and then down the turnpike to Perdues house again. After another halt in line, we went for- ward again to the position of the last preceding halt to cover the retreat of Colonel Plaisted with the Twenty-fourth Massachusetts, Tenth Connecticut, ~and Seventh New Hampshire. When they passed us and took position we again started, this time continuing to our camp, which we reached about 8 p. in., having conducted the retreat leisurely and in good order. I have nothing but words of the highest praise for the three regi- ments under my command upon this expedition. It so happened that the Seventh New Hampshire yost least, but when sent twice where severe loss appeared probable, its conduct was admirable. In charging up the slope to the burned house on the 14th, and in repelling the savage assault that evening it won high praise. Col- onel Abbott and Lieutenant-Colonel Henderson proved themselves able and brave soldiers. The Third New Ha~mpshire covered itself with glory in the two brilliant performances which I have noted, though at sad cost. Lieutenant-Colonel Phimpton and Major Rand- lett are all that any commander could ask in any emergency. The Seventh Connecticut also lost heavily; nothing could be finer than the undaunted spirit with which three or four of its companies as skirmishers took the house on the 14th, or with which the whole battalion met four fierce assaults. Lieutenant-Colonel Rodman, Major Sanford, and Captain Dennis, acting field officer, won most cordial praise. I trust that a grateful country will remember the many glorious patriots whose names I cannot here mention who suffered or died so cheerfully for the good of their country and mankind. Permit me to name my staff, who all labored faithfully and fear- lessly throughout: First Lieut. E. L. Moore, Seventh Connecticut, acting assistant adjutant-general; Lieut. John Van Keuren, Seventh Connecticut; Lieut. Heber J. Davis, Seventh New Hampshire, severely wounded on the 14th; Lieutenant Hanson, Seventh New Hampshire, brigade quartermaster, and Lient. W. T. Seward, 8ev-. enth Connecticut Volunteers, commissary Page 55 CHAP. XLVIII.] SOUTH SIDE OF THE JAMES. 55 The losses of the brigade during the expedition were as follows: Near Drewrys Bluff, May 12 to 16, 1864, both inclusive. Killed. Wounded. Missing. Aggregate. Regiments. a a a a ~.) a 0 ~ 0 ~ 0 ~ 0 ~ 7th 3jonnecticut Volunteers 1 26 95 1 67 2 188 7th New Hampshire Volunteers 1 . . .... 27 I ...... 29 3d New Hampshire Volunteers 3 32 4 164 15 7 211 Total 4 59 4 286 1 83 9 428 Adding one of my staff not elsewhere reported, the aggregate is 437, or over 25 per cent~ Very respectfully, your obedient servant, JOS. R. HAWLEY, Col. Seventh Connecticut Vets., Comdg~ Brigade~ Capt. A. ThRRY, Assistant Adjutard-General, First Division4 HDQRS. SECOND BRIG., FIRST Div., TENTH CORPS, Bernu a Hundred Intrenchments, Va., June 3, 18~64. SIR: I beg leave t~ report concerning the attack made on the picket-line in front of my position yesterday morning, June 2: Each brigade furnishes daily one regiment for outpost duty in its immediate front. June 1, at sunset, I sent out the Seventh Connecticut, Major San- ford, numbering 324 enlisted men, for twenty-four hours duty. Immediately in my front the line is across an open field a few hun- dred yards in front of the breast-work. As it entered the cover of the woods on the right it turned abruptly to the left and front per- haps 10 yards, and then turned again more to the right. On the portion running to the front Companies C and H were posted, and Major Sanford and Captain Dennis, senior captain, made their head- quarters near there. The line was very long, and the reduced regi- ment could save little or nothing for reserves. On the left of the open field the line ran into rough woods, broken by ravines. In many places it was exceedingly difficult to go from post to post, and the underbrush and fallen trees rendered it impossible to fall back quickly. The line had frequently been reported as very dangerous. About 7 a. m. of the 2d the enemy, whose line and pits were only from 20 to 150 yards distant from our own, made a nearly simul- taneous attack upon the whole line of the Seventh Connecticut, in some places advancing with a close line of skirmishers, in others dashing through in more force. Companies C and H were almost instantly cut off by a superior force and a large portion of them captured. The remainder, falling back, joined the left of the Thirty-ninth Illinois, the regiment next on their right, and under Sergeant Burgess did excellent service in the picket fighting of the day. On the left of C and H Captain Bacon was in command of a portion of the line. He handsomely repulsed the attack in his direc Page 56 56 OPERATIONS IN SE. VA. AND N. C. [CHAP. XLVIII. front, but after a time, being unable to communicate with Major Sanford, then seeing men taken to the rear as prisoners by the enemy, then hearing that the major was captured, and seeing the ground on his right and even in the rear thereof held by the enemy, where they could enfilade him, he gave the order and with a consid- erable number went rapidly back. As soon as I could communicate with him (General Terry being present and supervising all the movements), I sent him, afterward changing the order to include only Lieutenant Wildman and 40 men, to the Redan No. 2, in front of Battery 3 (unfinished and unoccupied), which overlooked and commanded the point of woods, and, so far as the trees did not for- bid, the ground where Companies C and H had been, near which the rebels were busily digging a new line. Lieutenant Wildman immediately opened a lively fire upon them. In the mean time the enemy had in a similar manner attacked our left in the woods and captured 18 men of Company B and a few others. Company E held fast for the most part, and Captain Perry held without interruption the left of the field, repelling the enemys attack. I sent two com- panies of the Third New Hampshire down there to re-enforce the S eveuth Connecticut. A detachment of Colonel Spears dismounted cavalry came to our assistance, as did Captain Pride, First Con- necticut Heavy Artillery, with some of his forces belonging in Redan No. 3. He was also ordered to open with canister or grape on the woods directly in front of him, which he did. The enemys forces on that side then appeared to be the Twenty-second South Carolina, for in this combined resistance Colonel Dantzler was killed, a number of his men killed and wounded, a lieutenant and 23 men captured, and the rest repulsed. I sent all that remained of the Seventh Connecticut to the left, where the broken parts of the line were re-established, and directed them to work their way on the old line to the right as fast and far as possible. Captains Thompson and Perry and Lieutenants Barker and Merriam were there. On the right Batteries 3 and 4 shelled the point of woods whence C and H were taken with great vigor. Under the generals orders, I sent Lieutenant-Colonel Phimpton, with the remainder of his regiment (Third New Hampshire), to retake that ground, where the enemy must have been exceedingly uneasy under the combined artillery and infantry fire directed upoii them. Colonel Phimpton went well around to our right of the disputed ground, dashed suddenl in and drove the rebels out instantly, capturing 38, and killing and wounding a number. His men and the Seventh Connecticut soon joined across the field, and the whole of my old line was re-estab- lished. The faulty Line of the brigade on my right was permanently retired, and the final result was a correction of the whole, making it much better. Of course, I painfully regret the occurrences of the day, but I have no facts which lead me to censure the officers or men of the Seventh Connecticut. The picket-line of the whole division was apparently attacked. The ground and the crooked line were a constant tempta- tion to the enemy to make just such a dash upon the disconnected posts and thinly scattered men. The enemy suffered heavily in killed and wounded besides losing nearly as many prisoners (60), though he had all the adv~intage in his opportunity to strike suddenly and heavily and withdraw. The Seventh Connecticut had Capt. C. C. Mills (one of the brav- est of men) shot through the right lung; Lieut. W. S. Marble Page 57 CHAP. XLVIII.] SOUTH SIDE OF THE JAMES. 57 shot through the right shoulder; Lieut. Byron Bradford, slightly wounded; 3 enlisted men killed and 1 fatally wounded, 9 wounded, and 4 officers and 9 men missing. The missing officers, Major Sanford, Captain Dennis, Lieutenant Pierce, and Assistant Surgeon Shepard, are prisoners, unhurt. Of the 79 missing 6 are known to be wounded prisoners. Aggregate loss, 99. Captain Mills, Lieuten- ant Marble, and Captain Perry deserve special mention for bravery. Lieutenant-Colonel Plimpton and his Third New Hampshire fully maintained their position in the very highest class of soldiers. Col- onel P. makes special rmention] of Captain Maxwells good con- duct. Loss, 2 killed and 8 wounded. I have the honor to be, very respectfully, your obedient servant, JOS. R. H4.WLEY, Colonel Seventh Gonn. Vols., Commanding Brigade. Capt. A. TERRY, Assistant Adjutant- General, First Dmnswn. ADDENDA. Itinerary of the Second Brigade, First Division, Tenth Army Corps, Allay 1-June 9. * This brigade was reported last month at Gloucester Point, Va., as consisting of the Seventh Connecticut and Seventh and Third New Hampshire Volunteers. May 2.The Sixth Connecticut was assigned to the brigade and reported for duty. May 4.In common with the whole Tenth Corps the brigade em- barked on transports, steamed up the James River, and landed at Bermuda Hundred. Allay 6.Marched about 8 miles and bivouacked until the 9th with- out meeting the enemy. May 9.The brigade marched to Chester Station and assisted in. destroying the railroad; thence the same day proceeded to Walthall Junction in the direction of Petersburg; formed that night the reserve before Swift Creek. May 10.The brigade was engaged in the morning destroying the railroad track, and afterward marched hurriedly to a point near Chester Station, where the enemy was encountered in considerable force, but was repulsed and driven back after a short but severe fight. Brigadier-General Terry, commanding First Division, per- sonally directed the operations. May 13 to 16.The brigade was engaged in the several battles in the neighborhood of Palmers Creek. The entire loss of the brigade dur- ing the four days exceeds 500. Since the withdrawal of the troops to the intrenchments the brigade has been occupied constantly on picket or fatigue duty. During the month the brigade was occupied mainly on the line of intrenchments near Bermuda Hundred. June 2.The picket-line held by the Seventh Connecticut Volun- teers was violently attacked and that regiment lost severely. The Third New Hampshire, by whose aid the line was regained, suffered loss. June 9.The brigade participated in the reconnaissance toward Petersburg. * From returns for May and June Page 58 58 OPERATIONS IN SE. \TA. AND N. C. [CHAP. XLVIII. No. 16. Report of Gol. Redfield Duryee, Sixth Connecticut Infantry, of op erations May 910. HDQRS. SIXTH REGIMENT CONNECTICUT VOLUNTEERS, In the Field, May 11, 1864. SIR: I have the honor to submits the following report regarding the part taken by this regiment in the operations of May 9 and 10, 1864: On the morning of May 9, pursuant to orders froln Col. J. R Hawley, Seventh Connecticut Volunteers, commanding brigade, this regiment took up ]ine of march and proceeded in the direction of the Richmond and Petersburg Railroad, and reached said railroad at the station 14 miles sonth of Richmond. From that point the line of march was directed along the railroad toward Petersburg until the regiment reached the l)Oint where the Richmond and Petersburg turnpike crosses the railroad 16 miles from Richmond. Here a halt was ordered and the regiment rested about two hours in the field near the building occupied as a temporary hospital for the division. From this point the line of march was toward Petersburg along the turnpike for the distance of about 1 mile to support a light battery. Remained at that post until night-fall, when orders were received to return to the railroad and bivouac for the night. At S a. m. on the 10th instant the regiment, by orders from bri- gade commander, formed in line and destro a ortion of the Richmond and Petersburg Railroad. I then proceeded with my regiment along the turnpike in the direction of Richmond to the ~distance of about 2 miles, when our advance was attacked by the enemy in force. By the order of General Terry the regiment marched by the flank through the woods on the west side of the turnpike and fornied line of battle in an open field about one-half mile west of the turn- pike; advanced in line across a road running at right angles with the turnpike and entered a piece of woods to support a regiment which was engaging the enemy, when orders were given for the regiment then engaged to retire in order to give me an opportunity to open fire upon the enemy. A ~portion of the left wing of my com- mand mistook the order and fell back out of the woods and formed on the opposite side of the road in rear. The right wing remained in line and repulsed the attack. As soon as the enemy Ceased firing and retreated the regiment, by orders from brigade commander, formed in line of battle in the open field to support a light battery. From this position orders were given for the regiment to retire. Returned to camp about 8 p. m. the 10th instant. All the officers behaved in a most satisfactory manner, and with very few exceptions the enlisted men conducted themselves well. I am, sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant, REDFIELD DURYEE, Col., Comdg. Sixth Regiment Connecticut Volunteers. Lieut. E. LEWIS MOORE, A. A. A. G., Second Brig., First Div., Tenth Corps Page 59 CHAP. XLVIII.] SOUTH SIDE OF THE JAMES. 59 No. 17. Reports of Lieut. Col. Daniel C. Rodman, Seventh Connecticut In- fantry, of operations May 9-14. HDQRS. SEVENTH REGIMENT CONNECTICUT VOLS., Bermuda Hundred, Va., May 11, 1864. GENERAL: I have the honor to report the part taken by my com- mand in the action at Chester Station, Va., on May 10, 1864, as follows: Left camp at Bermuda Hundred at 4 a. m. on the 9th instant, with 2 field, 2 staff, 1 acting adjutant, 1 acting regimental quartermaster, 17 line officers, and 720 enlisted men, and moved directly on to the Richmond and Petersburg Railroad at Chester Station, passing up the railroad to Grove Hill Station, and was held in reserve to the Eighteenth Corps, who were engaging the enemy on the left and in front of Pocahontas. At about 9 p. m. was ordered back to a position at the jnnction of the turnpike and railroad to protect the rear, where we bivouacked for the night. At about 7 oclock on the morning of the 10th the brigade, of which we formed a part, was ordered to move both ways on the railroad, destroying it and the telegraph, the right wing moving upon the turnpike to destroy the telegraph, the left on the railroad to protect the Sixth Connecticut Volunteers while destroying the railroad. The right wing, under my command, had proceeded about 1-i- miles destroying the telegraph, when we were ordered forward at a quick pace. Arriving at the top of the hill to the right of and near Chester Station, we were ordered into line of battle on a road leading from the right of the turnpike, and immediately threw out Company D, under command of Captain Townsend, as skirmishers. We were soon joined by the left wing under Major Sanford. Two companies (E and H), under Captain Dennis, were immediately sent to support a battery up on a hill a little in front of our line. I then ordered Major Sanford, with Companies B and K, to proceed to the top of the hill and engage the enemy. I was ordered to take the remaining companies (A, C, F, G, and I). and cross to the left of the turnpike to support the line upon that side, which was being fiercely engaged. I was then ordered to send three companies, under Captain Bacon, to the right of the turnpike, where they engaged the enemys skirmishers and drove them back. I cannot speak too highly of the conduct of both officers and men under my command during the entire engagement. Great credit is due to Surgeons Jarvis and Hine for their efficiency. Appended is a list of cas~alties. Accompanying this is Major Sanfords reportt of the detachment under his command. I have the honor to be, very respectfully, your obedient servant, D. C. RODMAN, Lient. Cot. Seventh Connecticut Vols., Comdg. Regt. Brig. Gen. L. THOMAS Adjt. Gen. U. S. Army, Washington, D. C. * Nominal list (omitted) shows S enlisted men wounded and 1 enlisted man killed. t See p.61 Page 60 60 OPERATIONS IN SE. VA. AND N. C. IICHAP. XLVIII. HDQRS. SEVENTH REGT. CONNECTICUT VOLUNTEERS, Bermuda Hundred, Va., May 17, 1864. LIEUTENANT: I have the honor to report the part taken by my command in the actions of May 12, 13, and 14: Left camp at 3 p. m. on the 12th with 21 commissioned officers and 610 enlisted men, having the right of the Second Brigade (First IDi- vision, Tenth Army Corps), Colonel Hawley commanding, moved out on the Petersburg and Richmond tnrnpike in the vicinity of Chester Station, at Perdues plantation, threw out 150 men as pickets, and bivouacked for the night. Two of the pickets were wounded during the night. Put under arms at about 6 a. m. on the 13th and move(l on to the Richmond and Petersburg Railroad and Clover Hill Junction, mov- ing on about 8 miles to the right and rear of the enemys intrench- ments, where we supported the Third New Hampshire Volunteers, who were engaging the enemy and driving them out of their works. We bivouacked in their intrenchments for the night, having four companies on picket. On the morning of the 14th, at about day- light, Major Sanford moved forward with five companies, support- ing the left of Turners division, who was advancing on the enemy. About 7.30 a. m. the other five companies moved forward, joining Major Sanfords command, and formed in line of battle at the foot of the hill in the woods, where the enemy Were in strong position at the .top of the hill in earth-works. A strong line was thrown out as ~ skirmishers, under command of Captain Dennis, where they fought desperately for two hours, expending all their ammunition and the fresh supplies sent. Several men were badly wounded lying in the line of battle. First Sergeant English and Sergeant Ripley, of Com- pany H, and First Sergeant Keys, Company A, behaved with great gallantry. Sergeant English had been hit in the foot, which made him quite lame, but he persisted in moving~ forward. About 3.30 p. m. the line, Colonel Hawley commanding, was ordered forward on the charge, going up with the Seventh New Hampshire Volun- teers on their left, the Third New Hampshire in reserve, to the sum- mit of the slope, where a house had been burned, forcing the enemy to take to their earth-works, about 400 yards in front, leaving us in possession of the top of the hill, where fighting continued at intervals until dark. Just about dark the rebels opened a furious fire and charged from their works with desperation. We opened for about a minute and a half with the full rapidity of the Spencer carbine. The rebel fire was completely subdued and the charge repulsed. The regiment being relieved by the Third New Hampshire Volunteers, we retired to their rear and bivouacked for the night. The conduct of the officers and men under my command was, with- out a single exception, deserving of great jraise. They distinguished themselves throughout by their gallantry. I would make special mention of Lieut. Charles A. Wood, who was mortally wounded. Inclosed is a list of casualties : ~ Killed, 14; wounded, 76; miss- ing, 2; total, 92. I am, lieutenant, very respectfully, your obedient servant, D. C. RODMAN, Lieut. Col. Seventh Gonneeticut Vols., Oomdg. 1?egt. Lieut. E. LEWIS MOORE, A.A.A.G.,Second Brig., First Div., Tenih Corps. * Embodied in revised statement, p. 13 Page 61 CHAP. XLVIII.] SOUTh SIDE OF THE JAMES. 61 No. 18. Reports of .Maj. Oliver S. Sanford, Seventh Connecticut Infantry, of operations May 10 and 16. HEADQUARTERS SEVENTH CONNECTICUT VOLUNTEERS, Bermuda Hundred, Va., May 11, 1864. COLONEL: I have the honor to report the part taken in the late action by the companies nnder my command, as follows: After leaving the regiment on the morning of the 10th, with the left wing of the command I moved np the railroad toward Chester Station, covering the Sixth Connecticut Volunteers, who were de- stroying the railroad. I remained there nearly an honr, when I was ordered to the tnrnpike to join the left of the column. I pnshed forward at a rapid pace, arriving jnst as the right wing had gone in line of battle to the right of the tnrnpike. I was ordered to send two companies (E and H), nnder Captain Dennis, forward to sup- port a battery. The three remaining were joined to the regiment. You then ordered me forward with two companies (B and K). I proceeded to the top of the hill, where I was joined by Captain Den- nis with the two companies under his command. I threw the right of my line a little forward and opened fire upon the left flank of the enemy, stationed in the woods, and drove them back. We engaged the enemy at intervals, who was trying to take a piece of artillery which had been abandoned by the Fourth New Jersey, and was near their lines. I drove them back at every attempt. The enemy opened fire npon me with two pieces of artillery, and I sent a request for a section of battery to silence the enemy. One piece of the Fourth New Jersey was sent to my position, and imme- diately opened npon them. I then ordered Company K, under com- mand of Lieutenant Barker, to move forward and bring in the aban- d()ned piece, which he sncceeded in doing. I placed the piece in position, manning it with men from Company K, taking ammuni- tion from a caisson which was also abandoned by the Fourth New Jersey, all the horses having been shot. After firing abont 10 shots from that piece and as many more from the one already there, we drove the enemys battery from its position. The enemy having retired from our front, I turned the piece over to the lieutenant in charge of the one sent there, it belonging to that battery. I was then ordered to fall back slowly. After falling back a few hun- dred yards, I found two companies (C and G) on the left of the road, and one (D) on the right. I took command of the whole, seven in all, forming them in colnmn by company, and marched them to the rear. After proceeding a few hundred yards, I was ordered across the field to the right of the tnrnpike, and took position on a cross-road, where I remained abont one honr. I was then ordered to take position on the left of the One hnndred and sixty-ninth New York Volunteers, where I found the other three companies, under command of Captain Bacon, supporting a section of the First Con- necticut Battery. We remained there until dark, and were then ordered to camp. Of the conduct of officers and men under my command, during the engagement, I can but speak in terms of highest praise, partic- ularly of Lieutenant Barker and his company, for their gallant con- duct in rescuing the gun, which had been abandoned and was near the enemys lines. On attempting to work the piece I could find n Page 62 62 OPERATIONS iN SE. VA. AND N. C. [CHAP. XLVIII. lanyard, and niy thanks are due to Private Clapp, of Company K, for the promptness and ingenuity displayed by forming one from a piece of telegraph wire near at hand. I have the honor to be, very respectfully, your obedient servant, 0. S. SANFORD, Major Seventh Connecticut Vols.. Comdg. Detachment. Lieut. Col. D. C. RODMAN, Commanding Regiment. HDQRS. SEVENTH REGIMENT CONNECTICUT VOLS., Bermuda Hundred, Va., May 17, 1864. LIEUTENANT: I have the honor to report the part taken by this command, consisting of 17 commissioned officers and 510 enlisted men, in the action of May 16, 1864: We left the bivouac occupied by the Second Brigade, First Divis- ion, Tenth Army Corps, about dark on the nig?it of the 15th instant, and proceeded to the front to relieve the Third New Hampshire Vol- unteers, who were on duty in the rifle-pits about 400 yards in front of the enemys works, on the left of the position occupied by our forces. I immediately sent out 2 men from each company about 100 yards to the front of our position as picket, with instructions to fire and fall back, if the enemy advaiiced in force. Everything remained quiet until about 4 oclock on the morning of the 16th, when lie~vy firing and cheering was heard on the right of our lines, increasing and nearing our position until about 5 oclock, when the enemy tried to force the lines on our left and were driven back. In about fifteen minutes the picket in our front fired and fell back, reporting the enemy advancing in force. It being very foggy at the time they could not be seen until within 40 or 50 yards of our position. I immediately opened upon them, driving them back with great loss. They rallied and advanced a second and third time, with a determination to carry the position, but were at each attempt repulsed, leaving the dead and wounded in great num- bers on our front. I was soon informed that the enemy had forced the line back on my right, and was pouring an enfilading fire upon my right flank. I ordered a fire to be opened from an angle in the center of my lines in that direction, and from my right flank com- pany, which silenced the enemy for a short time. I sent word to the colonel commanding brigade to have my right supported, and I would hold the position against any force. The fog lifting about that time, I could see the enemy about 100 yards on my right flank, secreted behind a fence and trees, picking my men off. I set sharp- shooters at work and succeeded in keeping them down. I then sent word that my right was unsupported. Colonel Henry, Fortieth Massachusetts Volunteers, came and looked at the position occupied by the enemy, and immediately pushed his command forward and drove them back. I soon received orders to leave a strong picket force and fall back. I had 15 men from each company selected to remain under charge of Lieutenants Barker, Gilbert, and Young, the whole under command of Captain Dennis, and was about to fall back with the rest of my command, when I received orders to fall back immediately with the whole, and form in the field to the rear of the woods. I then gave orders, but the men who had been selected to stay not hearing it remained. We fell back rapidly, the enem Page 63 CHAP. XLVIII.] SOUTH SIDE OF THE JAMES. 63 pouring volley after volley into us over the top of their works, and coming out in thousands to sweep the little band (which had been left behind and were pouring a murderous fire into them) from their position. Arriving in the open field, I received orders to fall back to a position in the woods across the field, and form in Vhe rear of the Third New Hampshire Volunteers. My ammunition being nearly expended, I was ordered to take a position in a field about 1,000 yards to the rear and right, where we remained a short time, and being joined by the Third New Hampshire Volunteers, we marched slowly back to a position upon a hill to the left of the turn- pike, where we remained a short time and were then marched across a ravine to the rear, taking a position on the ground occupied by us on the night of the 12th, remaining about half an hour, and were then moved back and across the ravine to the place previously oc- cupied, to form a part of the rear guard, remaining three hours and falling slowly back and bringing up the rear. Arrived in camp at about 8 p. m. I will mention the names of Corporals Walker and Braman, Pri- vates Lam phere and Holmes, Company H; Privates Painter, Minor, Jackson, and Wright, Company C, and Privates D. C. Andrews and Brockett, Company E, who volunteered to reconnoiter in our front after the enemy were driven back, and went forward ihto the fog upon the ground just vacated by the enemy; and of the 15 men from each company left back too niuch praise cannot be given them for their conduct in holding the rifle-pits until the rest of the com- mand had gone safely into the woods. But for them the whole command must have been badly cut up. All, officers and men, be- haved with great credit to themselves and the regiment, and could the right of our lines been held, we could have held our position against any force brought before it, for with the Spencer carbine, plenty of ammunition, and a determined set of men, nothing can stand before them. Inclosed is a list of casualties :* Killed, 13 wounded, 17; missing, 74; total, 104. I am, lieutenant, very respectfully, your obedient servant, 0. S. SANFORD, illiajor Seventh Connecticut Volunteers, Comdg. Regt. Lieut. E. LEWIS MOORE, A. A. A. G., Second Brig., First Div., Tenth Army Corps. No. 19. Report of Capt. Theodore Bacon, Seventh Connecticut Infantry, of operations. June 12. CAMP OF THE SEVENTH REGT. CONNECTICUT VOLS., Near Bermuda Hundred, Va., June 3, 1864. SIR: I have the honor to report that this regiment, numbering 15 officers and 324 enlisted men, Maj. 0. 5. Sanford commanding, re- lieved the Third New Hampshire Volunteers, upon the picket-line, at dusk on the evening of Wednesday, June 1. Companies A, F, D, ana I were posted across the open ground in front of our works be- tween Batteries 4 and 5, in the shallow and disconnected rifle-pits occupied by the picket force. The right of these four companies, of which I was placed in charge, touched the woods where Companies C * Embodied in revised statement, p. 13 Page 64 64 OPERATIONS IN SE. VA. AND N. C. LCn~u. XLVIII. and H, under Captain Dennis, were posted upon a line turning abruptly to the front along the edge of the woods, and at a distance of some 70 yards making another sharp turn into the woods. Major Sanford made his headquarters with these two companies. On the left of the open field Company I extended a few rods into the woods, and the line was continued by Companies B, G, K, and E, under Captain Mills. over ground heavily wooded and much broken by deep ravines. The whole line was without reserves nearer than the intrenchments, and had become extremely attenuated by the diminishing strength of regiments successively relieving each other. Across the open field the enemys line of pickets was 150 yards from ours, but in the woods on each side it came at some points to within 20 yards of our own. Up to half an hour after sunrise on the 2d there was perfect quiet along our entire front, although toward midnight a furious cannon- ade had been kept up for an hour over our heads by the rebel bat- teries. At that time an attack was commenced along our whole line by the. enemys pickets advancing from their posts as a line of skirmishers, strongly re-enforced, and 2 or 3 feet apart. In the woods on the left this attack was extremely rapid and sudden. A few steps placed the enemy in our pits, in a position which, favored by the direction of part of the line, enabled them to cut off and cap- ture a large part of Company B. Such part of Captain Mills com- mand as was not captured, with the exception stated below, fell back slowly, contesting the ground, to a position nearer the works, which they held until later in the morning they were re-enforced and reoccu- pied and held their first position. In the open field the advance of the enemy began a few moments after firing had been heard on the left. The enemy moved toward us in good line, but slowly and hesita- tingly. I opened fire along the whole line, and in two minutes they had all dropped to the ground, where they lay firing from such cover as they could get for a few minutes longer, when the entire line rose and ran to the shelter of their rifle-pits at full speed, followed by our cheers and bullets. From this cover they never ventured again, contenting themselves with a dropping fire from it until we abandoned nearly our entire line. On the right the movement of the enemy was by a dash across that part of the line which ran along the edge of the woods, nearly at right angles with the general direc- tion of the line. This movement, of which at the time I had no information, cut off nearly the whole of the two companies posted there, together with the major commanding the regiment. Word had already been passed to me repeatedly along the line that our left was turned;~ was cut off;~~ had fallen back ; and at last that the enemy were occupying our rifle-pits on the left. I refused to believe these statements, having great confidence in the strength of that position until I saw our skirmishers falling back across the open field toward the works; but I passed the word to Major San- ford on the right. No communicatioii had yet reached me from that officer. I ha~ seen a body of 30 or 40 rebels dash from their pits into the wood~ in a direction that placed them in the rear of Com- panies C and H. Groups of our men now began to be led to the rear of the rebel lines under guard; straggling skirmishers were seen falling back toward the works on our right; the enemys fire began to enfi- lade our lines from the woods on the right; the position was critical. I sent at last the question to the right, Where is Major Sanford ? The answer came back He is cut off. Up to this time my duty ha Page 65 Cii.& p. XLVIII.] SOUTH SIDE OF THE JAMES. 65 been simply to hold my position and await orders. It now became necessary to act. The choice was plainly between capture and a peril- ous retreat across the open fields to oui works. I therefore gave the order, with a reluctance which I never felt before in performing a mili- tary duty, to fall back. This order was executed after almost all the rest of the division line of picket had given way, under a severe fire from ~he enemy, and across an unprotected field, but with little loss; and painful as it always is to order a retreat, I had the satisfaction of knowing that the order saved a hundred men and rifles to the serv- ice, and of receiving the unqualified approval of my brigade, divis- ion, and corps commanders for the course adopted. On the extreme left a part of Company E, in a favorable position, did not leave their ground at all. The men who fell back to the works were re-organ- ized and at once pushed forward to the picket-line, for the most part on the left. The entire line, except at the former post of Coin- panies C and II, was gradually re-established and held. The conduct of officers and men throughout the affair was admira- ble, but I may be permitted to speak especially of the extraordinary coolness and courage of Capt. Charles C. Mills, of Company G, who received early in the fight a wound which it is greatly feared may be mortal. The list of casualties inclosed * shows our loss to be in numbers about 30 per centum of those engaged, and 7 out of 15 officers. The actual loss sustained by the regiment in these officers is quite inadequately represented by these figures. I have the honor to be, very respectfully, your obedient servant, THEODORE BACON, Gaptain, Uomdg. Seventh Connecticut Volunteers. Lient. E. LEWIS MOORE, A. A. A. U., Second Brig., First Div., Tenth Army Corps. [Indorsements.] HDQRS. SECOND BRIG., FIRST Div., TENTH ARMY CORPS, Bermuda Hundred lntrenchments, Va., June 6, 1864. Respectfully returned for correction. In one place it is stated that all of Captain Mills command fell back, which is not quite correct, and indeed it is afterward stated that E did not fall back. Nor is it correct to say on the third page that we abandoned our emitire line. Captain Perry, with Co mpammy I, to say miothing of a few men of neighboring compammies, never left the pits on time left of the open field or in the edge of the woods, and on the left it would have been well to have given credit to some men of the company of the First Connecticut Artillery and two companies of the Third New Hamp- shire, time latter sent out by the brigade commander for their help in re-establishing the line. The posts occupied by C and H were soon after retaken by the Third New Hampshire, the majority of which regiment, under Lieutenant-Colonel Plimpton, went out for that p ur- pose, accomplished it, and took 35 prisoners. Lieutenant Wildman with his company (A) in the redan imad materially assisted in clearing time way for this, by opening a lively fire omm the woods in that direc. tion, to say nothing of time artillery fire from Batteries 3 and 4. By order of Colonel Hawley: E. LEWIS MOORE, First Lieut. Seventh Connecticut Vols., A. A. A. G. * Embodied in revised statement, p. 19. 5 R RvoL Xxxvi, PT I Page 66 66 OPERATIONS IN SE. VA. AND N. C. [CHAP. XLVIII. HDQRS. SEVENTH CONNECTICUT VOLUNTEERS, Bermuda Hundred, Va., June 7, 1864. Respectfully forwarded with the corrections called for. THEODORE BACON, Captain, Commanding Regiment. No. 20. Reports of Lieut. C~ol. Josiah I. Plimpton, Third New Hampshire Infantry, of operations May 9-June 2. HDQRS. THIRD INEW HAMPSHIRE VOLUNTEERS, Bermuda Hundred, Va., May 11, 1864. SIR: In accordance with instructions received from brigade head- quarters, I have the honor to make the following report of the part taken in the affair of the past two days by the Third New Hamp- shire Volunteers: We left camp about 7 oclock on the morning of the 9th, marched with the brigade to Chester Station, on Richmond and Petersburg Railroad, arriving about 112 m. Marched thence down the railroad to Port Walthall Junction, arriving about 2 p. in.; thence to Rich- mond turnpike, where the regiment was ordered to report to Briga- dier-General Terry, and by him posted at Brandon Bridge, on a road from Richmond to Petersburg, 2-~ miles from Petersburg, where we arrived about an hour after dark, with instructions to hold the posi- tion and allow no troops to advance across the bridge; to recon- noiter the position of the enemy; the condition of the bridge; the enemys batteries; the depth of water in the river, & c. I marched the column to within about 700 yards of the bridge, formed a line of battle, and advanced with a line of skirmishers to within about 150 yards of the bridge, where I met the enemy ad4ancing. (I was after- ward informed by a man living near by that the enemy numbered 200, and were advancing to capture a cavalry patrol that had pre- viously looked the ground over.) The enemy opened fire, which was returned, when he opened with grape and canister from a work on the opposite side of the river. The firing lasted but a few min- utes. It being quite dark and knowing very little of the position of the enemy or the ground, I did not try to pnsh the enemy back, but posted my pickets for the night. While reconnoitering the next morning, the enemy opened with grape and canister, firing a few rounds. This position was held until 1 p. m. 10th instant, when I was ordered to fall back. Pro- ceeded np the turnpike to division headquarters, and was ordered to deploy my regiment as skirmishers at the front, where I remained until about 6 p. in., when I was ordered to return to camp. All the officers of my command behaved so well it wonld be dif- ficult to select any particular one for special praise. The men be- haved well and underwent their fatigning duties cheerfully. The casualties were: Private John Smith, of Company D, wounded in hand (severe); Private Patrick Mansfield, Company I, in head (dan- geronsly); and Private John Kennedy, Company A, a case of sun- stroke. In returning to camp, shots were accidentally fired by catchiiig the triggers in the bushes, it being dark at the time, an Page 67 cHAP. XLVIII.] SOUTH SIDE OF THE JAMES. the following named men were wounded: Private James Ryan, Compai1y E, in leg (slight); Private John L. Wing, Company K, in finger (slight); Private John Wilson, Company K, in hand (severe). 1 have the honor to be, very respectfully, your obedient servant, J. I. PLIMPTON, Lieut. Got., Gomdg. Third New Hampshire Vols. Lieut. E. LEWIS MOORE, A. A. A. G., Second Brig., First Div., Tenth Army corps. HDQRS. THIRD NEW HAMPSHIRE VOLUNTEERS, Bermuda Hundred, Va., May 16, 1864. SIR: I have the honor to submit the following report of the part taken by the Third New Hampshire Volunteers during the past four days: We left camp on the morning of the 12th instant, marched to the west side of the turnpike near Perdues house, and bivouacked for the night. Next morning marched to the right of the enemys line of intrench- ments, a distance of about 6 miles, when we were ordered to pass to the rear of a fort on his right and take the same. As I approached the fort I found I must p ass over a creek with a bridge two planks wide, pass up a steep hill so thickly wooded as to be unable to deploy until I had reached the open field within the fort. Just as we com- menced to cross the bridge I fonnd the enemy had discovered us and thrown a line of skirmishers on the crest of the hill in front to stop our approach. They opened fire and it was returned by my advance. I hurried forward as fast as possible, and finding no possibility of deploying in line I pushed forward by the flank, left in front, and as I reached the field swung round into line as best we could. My men steadily advanced, driving the enemy (who were now press- ing upon us in large numbers) back to the parapet of his work, and he, finding no one advancing on his front, jumped over the para- pet in front of his work and took cover there, and many of them occupied the buildings, from which place they continued a heavy fire upon us, my men taking the best cover they could find. The enemy far outnumbered my command and had excellent cover but my men tenaciously held their position until about 500 of the enemy were discovered on our left flank passing to our rear, evidently with the intention to flank us. I sent for re-enforcements, and after wait- ing as long as I considered my men safe from the flanking party and no help coming, I ordered them to fall back to the edge of the wood and there form line, intending to throw my left wing back to op pose the flanking party while my right should hold the frout until help should come; but the fire of the enemy was so terrible as they croseed the open field I found it impossible to stop them until they reached the bottom of the ravine at the creek ,where I was forming them, when re-eiiforcements came,and I was ordered back across the creek in the field to form. The force I had to contend with in the fort was said by the prisoners taken to consist of two brigades, numbering about 3,000. In this engagement we took some 8 or 10 prisoners. That evening we were pYaced in the trenches for the night. Next morning (14th) moved along the enemys line of intrenchments and took up position in his front, and while drawn up in column as sup Page 68 68 OPERATIONS IN SE. VA. AND N. C. [CHAP. XLVI11. port to the line in front had 2 men killed and 6 wounded. At night went to the front for picket duty, where during the night we dug a ditch for cover as best we could with tin pans, dippers, plates, & c. Next morning (15th) the enemy commenced firing upon us, which was returned, and heavy firing continued all day. Was relieved at night and fell back in rear of the woods for the night. Our casualties for the day were 3 enlisted men killed and 5 wounded. Next morning (16th) was ordered to the front to charge over the enemys work. After lying in rear of picket-line for some time, waiting orders to go forward, I was ordered to the rear, and in falling back our loss was considerable. Fell back to the right and rear, and halted in rear of a small piece of woods. While there the enemy charged out of his work directly in my front and attempted to flank the troops on our left. I was ordered to advance and engage the enemy, and did so. After a few minutes firing he began to shake, and I immediately ordered a charge and drove him into a piece of woods, where he attempted to rally, but could not, and retired to his work. We took 1 lieutenant-colonel, 1 major, and some 15 privates prisoners, and left a large number of the enemy dead and wounded in the woods and on the ground we occupied. Afterward was ordered to fall back, and came to camp same evening. Casualties of the day were 2 officers killed and 1 wounded; 7 enlisted men killed and 34 wounded, and 13 missing. During the four days engagements my officers and men behaved in a most gallant manner, and nobly and cheerfully did their duty and underwent the hardships and privations to which they were sub- jected. Inclosed is a 1st * of the killed, wounded, and missing for the fotir days covered I this report. ~. ~. PLIMPTON, Lieut. Cot., Comdg. Third New Hampshire Vots. Lieut. E. LEWIS MOORE, A. A. A. G., Second Brig., First Div., Tenth Army Corps. HDQRS. THIRD NEW HAMPSHIRE VOLUNTEERS, Bermuda Hundred, Va., June 3, 1864. SIR: I have the honor to submit the following report of the affair of yesterday: In accordance with orders my men (about 200) moved out to the redan in front of Battery No. 3. I then reported to General Terry, who ordered me to go out to the picket-line and communicate with the officer in charge of the picket-line, after which I reported to General Terry again, and was ordered to deploy my men in front of the redan and move up and retake the rifle-pits in the field and in the woods on the right; but after looking over the ground and find- ing it nearly impossible to get through the timber, and knowing I should be seen plainly by the enemy and draw a heavy fire, I con- cluded to march my men round to the picket-line, and moved through to the woods to the left, where I deployed half my men in a direc- tion so as to flank the corner of the woods next the open field and moved up cautiously until near the enemy, when, at the order, my men dashed forward over the pits of the enemy and were hardly * Embodied in revised statement, p. 13 Page 69 CHAP. XLVIII.] SOUTH SIDE OF THE JAMES. 69 restrained from following the retreating enemy to his own works. At the same time the line moved up, the balance of my men were moved still more to the left by the flank through the timber and into the pits in the open field, while the line occupied the enemys atten- tion on the right. A considerable number of prisoners were taken, but being immediately sent to the rear I am unable to state the number. I occupied our old line of pits, extending to the right through the woods about 400 yards. Here the Thirty-Ninth Illinois Volunteers moved up and connected with my right at my request. From my right the line bore off to thelight across the road to Ware Bottom Church, about 150 yards iii advance of the line first occupied by our forces. I found in the woods near the open field the enemy had dug a new line of pits a little north o~ our own line. After occupying the line I proceeded, in accordance wit~h General Terrys instructions, to establish a new line a little in rear of the one now held and connecting with the old pit first occupied by our forces, and detailed an officer to take charge of a working party and commence digging the pits. In this affair my officers and men behaved in a most gallant man- ner, nobly doing their duty. Capt. William H. Maxwell rendered me great assistance as acting major of the regiment, and deserves special mention for his conduct at this time. About dark my men were relieved and returned to camp. The casualties were as follows, making a total of 2 killed and 8 wounded. * I am, very respectfully, your obedient servant, J. I. PLIMPTON, Lieut. Cot., Comdg. Third New Hampshire Vols. Lient. E. L. MOORE, A. A. A. G., Second Brig., First Div., Tenth Army Corps. No. 21. Report of Lieut. Got. Thomas A. Henderson, Seventh New Hamp shire Infantry, of operations May 9-10. HDQRS. SEVENTH NEW HAMPSHIRE VOLUNTEERS, Bermuda Hundred, Va., May 11, 1864. SIR: I have the honor to submit the following report of the part taken by this regiment in the operations of the 9th and 10th in- stant: The line was formed at 4 a. m. on the 9th, and soon after the regiment, with the others constituting Hawleys brigade, marched toward the Richmond and Petersburg Railroad, and reaching the railroad at about 12 in., proceeded on the line of the road toward Petersburg. On arriving at Walthall Junction the regiment re- mained halted several hours. The command of the regiment here devolved upon myself, Colonel Abbott assuming the command of the brigade. Toward sunset the regiment was moved forward on the turnpike about 1 mile, and again halted and formed in line of bat- tle. At about 11 p. in. the regiment was moved back to the turn- pike crossing, where it bivouacked during the night. At about 7 a. in. on the 10th instant the regiment was ordered to tear up the * Nominal list omitted Page 70 70 OPERATIONS IN SE. VA. AND N~ C. [CHAP. XLVIII. track of the railroad near Waithall Junction. It was engaged in so doing for about an hour, tearing up some third of a mile of the track. An order was then received to march the regiment by the turnpike northerly. The extreme heat, together with the ex- ertions the men had already made in destroying the railroad, ren- dered the march very severe. As the regiment advanced the rapid firing of artillery was heard growing more and more distinct, and indicating an engagement between the advanced force and the en- emy. On reaching the road running westerly across the turnpike to the railroad, at Chester Slation, the firing was very near, and chiefly on the westerly side of the turnpike. I was ordered by General Terry to move the regiment as quickly as possible down the road to the west, of the turnpike, and to form line of battle to resist the enemy in that direction. I moved forward as fast as the exhausted condition of the men would permit, and at about half a mile from the turnpike entered a large open field on the left, and moved forward toward the Winfree house, beyond which the firing indicated the presence of the enemy. By order of Col- onel Abbott commanding the brigade, I formed line of battle, with the right in rear and just beyond the house, the line extending back perpendicularly to the house along a slight garden fence. The en- emy not appearing in force in front, and there being indications of his advance through the woods on the right, by order of Colonel Abbott I moved round the house and formed in line of battle in front of it, facing to the north. Being here exposed to a flank fire from a battery on the left, the regiment was moved on the road to the right and themi to the rear, where the men were directed to lie down behind a slight elevation which afforded some protection from the artillery fire of the enemy. At this time Rockwells Con- necticut battery took position in the field, to my right and rear, and opened fire into the woods in front and also to the left, firing over my regiment. In a few moments the enemy appeared advancing on my left, when, by order of Colonel Abbott, I returned to the position before described, along the line of the oarden fence. Tearing down the fence, a slight shelter was formed from the material, be- hind which the men were made to lie down. Several small out- buildings also afforded concealment and shelter from the enemy. These dispositions having been made, I waited the approach of the enemy. F or some 150 yards immediately in front of my line was a slight slope of cultivated ground. Next beyond, for several hun- dred yards, was a large space, considerably broken and thickly cov- ered with stumps. Beyond was a thick wood, in front of which were the enemys skirmishers engaged with our own. Our skirmish- ers drove those of the enemy back into the woods, whereupon a regiment of the enemy moved out of the woods, driving back our skirmishers and advancing to within about 500 yards of my line, pro- tecting themselves son~ewhat by the inequalities of the ground and the stumps. They then delivered a tremendous volley, doin g,how- ever, but trifling execution. The volley was promptly returned by my regiment, and followed up in a most spirited and determined manner, the men accompanying their volleys with cheers of defi- ance to the enemy. The enemy withstood the fire for a few mo- ments and retired precipitately to the woods. Rockwells battery, in my rear, continued all the while firing rapidly, and apparently with great execution, into the woods.. Several regiments of the enemy were visible in the woods, one of which soon emerged and advance Page 71 CHAP. XLVIII.] SOUTH SIDE OF THE JAMES. 71 in the same manner as the first, only to imitate its retreat, but still more precipitately, under the incessant and well-directed fire of my eager troops. The enemy appearing in great force in the edge of woods, Colonel Abbott directed me to retire slowly, believing it im- possible for my small force to hold the position. Understanding, however, that it was deemed important to hold the position, if pos- sible, I sent word to Colonel Abbott that I thonght I would be able to do so. The order to retire was accordingly countermanded. Three battalions of the enemy, one of cavalry and two of infantry, now moved out of the woods in column (as I judged from their sub- sequent deployment) doubled on the center. A.waiting their ap- proach to about 500 yards from my line, the regiment delivered a deliberate volley, accompanied with yells and cheers, which probably suggested to the enemy the presence of a much larger force, or perhaps the arrival of re-enforcements, for the whole body hastily withdrew toward the edge of the woods. At this mo- ment I perceived a strong force deploying and moving toward my left flank, apparently preparing to charge from that direction. I ac- cordingly withdrew some 300 yards, at the same time changing the direction of the line of battle to face the forces on my left. For some cause this force rapidly withdrew, and the regiment again be- came engaged with the force in front, and returned to its former position. The enemy withdrew and did not again appear in force in that direction, and I ceased firing. I soon received an order from Colonel Abbott to withdraw to the rear of the battery, then to move in line of battle through the woods to the turnpike; thence through the woods east of the turnpike to a road parallel to it; thence down this road till I joined the Seventh Connecticut on my right. Re- maining here till about sunset, I received an order to return to imy present camp. The morning report of the 10th showed present 17 officers and 288 enlisted men. Deducting the pioneers, drum corps, and a few who had fallen out from exhaustion on the march, there were actually engaged about 275 officers and men. Respecting the conduct of my men, I can only say that it was all that could be desired. If they failed in any respect it was in an excess of zeal and impetuosity to move forward against the enemy. The re-enlisted veterans of the regiment were not present. The force engaged was chiefly composed of recruits of but a few months drill and serijice. Their conduct on this occasion deserves a high compliment, and is a source of pride and satisfaction to their offi- cers. My subordinate officers uniformly conducted themselves in a way to meet my full approbation, some of them exhibiting ad- mirable coolness and gallantry. I append hereto a list* of the casualties during the action. The list is small in consequence, partly, of the sheltered position of my command and partly of the fire of the enemy being very high. Their artillery did no execution what- ever. I am, sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant, T. A. HENDERSON, Lieutenant- Colonel Seventh New Hampshire Volunteers. Lieut. E. L. MOORE, Acting Assistant Adjutant- General. * Embodied in revised statement, p. 13 Page 72 72 OPERATIONS IN SE.VA. AND N. 0. [CHAP. XLVIII. No. 22. Report of Cot. Joseph C. Abbott, Seventh New Hampshire Infan- try, of operations May 1216. HDQRS. SEVENTH NEW HAMPSHIRE VOLUNTEERS Bermuda Hundred, Va., Alay 17, 1864. SIR: I have the honor to submit the following report of the part taken by my regiment in the late expedition, commencing on Thurs- day, May 12, and closing on Monday, May 16: On Thursday, May 12, under command of Lieutenant-Colonel Henderson, the regiment marched to the place known as Perdues, on the turnpike, and there bivouacked. At that place I joined it during the night. The next morning, May 13, I marched toward Chester Station, passed it, crossed the railroad, and proceeded in the direction of Chester Court-House; thence turning toward the right, again approached the railroad and a rebel earth-work, which it was proposed to assault. By order of Colonel Hawley, commanding the Second Brigade, Terrys division, I took position fronting the earth- work, in order to support a battery. While in that position the assault on the work was commenced on my left, and I was ordered to support it. I accordingly moved in that direction across a small stream, and passed up toward the earth-work and took positi onin the edge of the wood fronting it. I there met the Third Regiment New Hampshire Volunteers falling back. An assault having been made on the opposite side of the work, and the Seventh Connecticut Volunteers having come up on my left, an advance was made, and it, was ascertained that the works had been already evacuated. I was then ordered by Brigadier-General Terry to proceed into a piece of wood, and from its edge obtain a flanking fire on a rebel battery posted in a field about 600 yards from the earth-work. I at once proceeded skirmishing through the wood, and reached a point opposite, where the battery was posted, and found that it had retired within an earth-work. I then sent forward skirmishers to examine the earth-work, and ascertained that it contained three pieces of artillery, supported by infantry. I then called in the skirmishers to the railroad, threw out a line of pickets on the railroad, and remaiiied until about 10 p. in., when I was relieved and returned within the intrenchments for the night. The next day, May 14, I occupied a portion of the front of the whole line of Terrys division, which had been advanced about a mile to the eastward. This position was directly in front of a strong earth-work. During the afternoon the line was advanced within 250 yards of the earth-work, and at that point I held a position on the left of the Seventh Connecticut Volunteers. The firing both from artillery aIld ihusketry was constant, and after dark m yp osi- tion was assaulted by a heavy force, which was handsomely repelled. By order of Colonel Hawley, having been relieved by the Third New Hampshire, I withdrew at about 8 p. m. to a field 400 or 500 yards in the rear, where the command rested until daylight on the morning of the 16th. At that time heavy firing was heard on the extreme right of the Eighteenth Corps, which gradually extended along the whole line to our front, and I received orders to form line of battle and advance toward the earth-work already spoken of. For about an hour I occupied a position in the edge of the woods Page 73 CHAP. XLVIII.] SOUTH SIDE OF THE JAMES. 73 fronting the work, when I was detached from the Second Brigade with orders to report to Major-General Smith, at the Half-Way House, on the turnpike. On the way thither I met General Smith, who ordered me to take a position in the woods in front of where I then was. I had hardly reached the position, when I was fired into from the rear by our own troops and had 1 officer and 3 men wounded. I then moved to a point near the Half-Way House, and was ordered by General Smith to take command of the Tenth New Hampshire Volunteers and a section of a battery, and hold the approach by the turnpike. Soon after, by order of General Smith, the Tenth New Hampshire was withdrawn to the right, and, it being reported by the officer commanding the skirmish line that the enemy was form- ing a heavy line on my left. I reported the fact to General Terry, who very soon sent Colonel Plaisted, commanding the Third Brigade of his division, with two regiments to strenthen the position. I re- mained at the Half-Way House in the position which I first occupied until about 3 p. in., when I withdrew by order of General Terry o~i the turnpike, and thence retired within the intrenchments. Of the conduct of my command, both officers and men, during this expedition, I desire to speak with more than the ordinary em- phasis. Although the command was in almost constant service for five days, with unusual exposure, with short rations and much of the time under sev~re fire, I know of few, if any, instances of orders which were not obeyed with cheerfulness and alacrity, and in all cases when exposed to the fire of the enemy the command behaved with the coolness and bravery becoming soldiers. I have the honor to be, with great respect, your obedient servant, JOSEPH C. ABBOTT, Colonel Seventh New Hampshire Volunteers. Lient. E. LEWIS MOORE, Acting Assistant Adjutant-General. No. 23. Reports of Col. harris M. Plaisted, T~Jleventh Maine Infantry, com manding Third Brigade, of operations May 7-10. HDQRS. THIRD BRIG., FIRST Div., 10TH ARMY CORPS, Bermuda IThndred, Va., May 9, 1864. MAJOR: I have the honor to report the part taken by my brigade in the affair of the 7th, upon the Petersburg and Richmond Rail- road: On the morning of the 7th instant, in obedience to orders, I re- ported with my command, Third Brigade, Terrys division, to Major- General Smith, commanding Eighteenth Army Corps, and was assigned for the day to General Brooks command. The column took up the line of march in the direction of the junction of the pike and Petersburg railroad, General Buruhams brigade having the advance. Having advanced a short distance beyond our picket-line, the advance brigade feeling the enemy, was deployed, and my bri- gade was deployed in its rear, forming a second line. In this order the enemy was pushed back toward the railroad and pike, not with- out a stout resistance, until General Brooks had secured the co Page 74 74 OPERATIONS IN SE. VA. AND N. C. [CHAP. XLV~ manding heights upon the right, overlooking the wide valley, while Buruhams brigade held the enemy in check in the front. I was ordered by General Brooks to descend into the valley to the right of Buruham and find the railroad, and to destroy as much of it as pos- sible. Bartons brigade was also to make a demonstration in the enemys front. Taking a wide detour to the right by a ravine, and concealed by the woods, I moved my brigade to the pike in three columns, the One hundredth New York Volunteers, Colonel Dandy, on the right; Twenty-fourth Massachusetts Volunteers, Colonel Osborn, in the center; and the Tenth Connecticut Volunteers, Col- onel Otis, on the left, the two latter regiments somewhat retired. Finding no enemy on the pike, I put the One hundredth (my right regiment) in through the wood upon the railroad, a short distance to the north of the junction. This regiment immediately became hotly engaged. I then moved the Twenty-fourth and Tenth to the right and put them in echelon, the Twenty-fourth advanced, and about 400 yards from the One hundredth, aiming to get upon the enemys flank without engaging all my regiments. The officer in command of the skirmishers of the Twenty-fourth reporting that he was on the railroad and no enemy to be seen, I held the Tenth in reserve, and sending in the pioneers of the brigade with the Twenty- fourth the work of destruction commenced. Colonel Dandy with the One hundredth attacked the enemy with great vigor on my left, charging across the railroad and driving him from the high ground beyond. He swung his right forward and held the enemy for full two hours and a half, while the Twenty-fourth and pioneers were destroying the road. In the mean time Bartons brigade attacked in front to the left of the One hundredth. The left wing of the One hundredth receiving some shots from Bartons fire was retired and set at work in destroying the trestle bridge and the road in their rear. The following extract is from Colonel Dandys official report: Across this field. under a brisk fire from the enemy, I carried my colors, and, crossing the railroad, rallied my men on a height overlooking the rebel position and within short range of their advanced rifle-pits. The brigade of Colonel Barton was in the mean time advancing on our left and rear. A portion of his brigade, the forty-eighth New York Volunteers, overlapping my regiment, joined me on the heights and planted its colors near the colors of the One hundredth New York Vol- unteers. We maintained this position for above two hours, repelled two successive charges of the enemy on our position, and materially aided Colonel Bartons bri- gade on our left, the enemy pressing upon them being checked by our fire on his flank. In the mean time my regiment and the remaining two regiments of the bri- gade were engaged in tearing up the railroad and destroying the telegraph lines, both on the turnpike and railroad. This having been accomplished to a consider- able extentas far as I could see in the Richmond directionincluding one trestle bridge*, the brigade withdrew in sufficient time to prevent a flanking movement of the enemy on our left, caused by the falling back of Bartons brigade, and retook the position from which the movement was made. The object of the movement was successfully accomplished, and as far as I was able to judge great damage in- ificted on the railroad and telegraph lines. The destruction of the road extended more than a mile, and was as thorough and complete as possible, considering the means at hand to work with. Four lines of telegraph were also destroyed two each upon the pike and railroad. The enemy having appeared on my front and right, I made dispositions to retire, when an order came from General Brooks to retire immediately; that I was in *See Dandy8 report, p. 87 Page 75 CHAP. XLVIII.] SOUTH SIDE OF THE JAMES. 75 danger of being flanked. I retired in echelon by half battalions. Having recrossed the pike I moved up a ravine, concealing the movement from the enemy. A portion of Bartons brigade being roughly pressed back across the pike by the enemy advancing, I moved two of my regiments into the open field and formed line of battle in his rear in plain view of the eneiAy. This demonstration checked the enemys advance. Reporting to General Brooks upon the height, lie directed that the two regiments thus formed should remain as posted and be ready to ad vance, if necessary, to extricate Barton. At the same time Bnrnhams brigade was pushed forward upon the left of my two regiments. The enemy making no farther advance, I was directed by General Brooks about sunset to take the advance and return to camp, carrying with me every wounded man, every musket, and every part of a musket belonging to my com- mand. The brigade was reformed upon the hill and marched to camp, and so far as I am aware, without a single straggler. The loss in the brigade was wholly confined to the One hundredth New York Volunteers, that regiment having done all the fighting and niost gallantly, while my two remaining regiments were at work destroy- ing the railroad and telegraph lines. The loss in the One hundredth was 2 killed, 16 wounded (including 2 commissioned officers), and 9 missing. A list of the killed, wounded, and missing is inclosed. * I cannot close my report without making special mention of Col- onel Dandy and the One hundredth New York Volunteers, whose unflinching courage and dash enabled the brigade to accomplish the object of the expedition. To him and to Colonels Osborn and Otis, for their prompt execution of every order, I am entirely in- debted for the success. Lieuteuant-Coloiiel Stevenson, Twenty- fourth Massachusetts Volunteers, with one wing of his regiment, did good service in securing our rear and flank. Upon retiring he destroyed a large saw-mill and - an inimense quantity of lumber, which he caused to be fired. The fourth regiment of my brigade (the Eleventh Maine Volunteers), being on picket, did not accom- pany the expedition. I have the honor to be, major, very respectfully, your obedient servant, H. M. PLAISTED, Colonel Eleventh Maine Volunteers, Oomdg. Brigade. Maj. N. BOWEN, Assistant Adjutant- General. HDQRS. THIRD BRIG., FIRST Div., TENTH ARMY CORPS, Bermuda Hundred, Va., May 11, 1864. COLONEL: I have the honor to report that, in obedience to Special Orders, No. 3, paragraph III, from corps headquarters, I assumed command of the intrenchments and troops therein on the morning of the 9th instant. Immediately upon taking the command I assigned Colonels Dandy, Barton, and Drake to the command of all the forces remaining be- hind of their respective divisions, and gave to each his part of the * Embodied in revised statement, p. 18 Page 76 76 OPERATIONS IN SE. VA. AND N. C. [CHAP. XLVIII. intrenciments to fortify and defend, Dandy on the right, Barton the center, and Drake the left. The forces nnder my command consisted of three brigades and abont 500 men, fragments of regiments gone to the front, the sick and camp gnards. 13onr regiments of the force were on picket. My first care was to nake the line of intrenchments immediately defensible by a small force. The whole force was set to work. By daybreak of the 10th the entire front of the Tenth Corps, excepting a part of the center, was covered by a line of rifle-pits and obstructed by slashings where there were trees to be felled, and thirty-two pieces of artillery were pnt in position. A large amount of work was done, considering the force at band, by Colonels Dandy and Drake, who, having charge of the flanks, engaged in the work with a zeal and determination that infused into their men the same spirit. They were on duty constantly day and night, personally directing and at- tending to everything on their respective fronts. No hearty co- operation was received from Colonel Barton. Captain Walker, of the Engineers, refused to obey my orders. In the forenoon of the 9th I directed him to forego his nice work, revetments, & c., and be sure that the platforms for the six guns and the embrasures were all constructed before dark; also a banquette, so that the work might be used as a rifle-pit. He did not attend to it. Later in the day I again gave him the same order with some emphasis. He replied that I wished to injure him professionally by the roughness of the work, & c. Finally I ordered the artillery officers to superintend the con- struction of their platforms, & c. They did so, and by dark all the pieces (six) on the right were well mounted but one. At dusk I again ordered Captain Walker to prepare the banquette for the works on the right. Nothing then had been done by him toward it, and the parapets could not be manned. He refused, and said he would not obey any but a superior of his own corps. I informed him that I was placed in command by General Gillmore, and then gave him a formal order, which lie refused to obey. I placed him in arrest and ordered him to thus report to his superior officer. He made some talk, and I ordered Colonel Dandy to place him in close confinement unless he left immediately. On the morning of the 10th I received a note from Colonel Serrell stating that I have released Captain Walker from arrest. Captain Walker soon after appeared on duty. I refused to recognize him. He again appeared in the afternoon and called for three regiments, as he said, by the orders of General Butler, but he could furnish no order from General Butler. I shall forthwith forward to the gen- eral commanding charges and specifications against the captain. During the day of the 10th I received froni the general commanding a call for six regiments. They were immediately sent forward. I kept informed as to the state of things in my front by frequent coin- munications with Colonel Howell, as directed by the general corn-. manding. Copies of two circulars are inclosed as a part of this report. I have the honor to be, colonel, your, most obedient servant, H. M. PLAISTED, Colonel Eleventh Maine Volunteers, Gomdg. Brigade. Lient. Col. EDWARD W. SMITH, Assistant Adjutant- General Page 77 CHAP. XLVIII.] 77 SOUTH SIDE OF THE JAMES. [Inclosure No. 1.1 ORDERS.] HEADQUARTERS U. S. FORCES, Within the Intrenchments, Miay 9, 18645 a. m. I. Colonels Dandy, Barton, and Drake, commanding brigades, will assume command of all the troops of their respective divisions remaining behind. They will immediately send to these headquar- ters a report of each regiment in their command, stating the number of men in each regiment fit for duty in the trenches in case of an at- tack, cooks, teamsters, musicians, guards, and every man capable of an hours duty in an emergency will be required to fall in. These fragments of regiments will be organized with a suitable number of officers. II. Captain Elder, Battery B, First U. S. Artillery, will take com- mand of all the artillery remaining behind, placing in position on the intrenchments immediately at least three batteries, and assign- ing the reserve to their position. III. No bands, drum corps, or bugles will be allowed to play or sound the calls, except in case of an alarm, until further orders. The discharge of fire-arms under any circumstances excepting as signal of alarm is fQrbidden. Any officer or soldier offending in these particulars will be immediately arrested. IV. The work upon the iutrenchments will be pushed forward with the greatest dispatch. The commanding officers above named will be held responsible for the careful observance of this order. By order of H. M. Plaisted, colonel Eleventh Maine Volunteers, commanding: CHAS. B. AMORY, Capt. Twenty fourth Massachusetts Vols., A. A. A. G. (Copy to Colonels Dandy, Barton, Drake, and the commanding officers of all the batteric~s.) [Inclosure No. 2.] HEADQUARTERS U. S. FORCES, Within the Intrenchments, May 9. 18648 p. m. COLONEL: I have intelligence from the front that Howell has been driven back by the enemy in force. You will therefore make every exertion to make your front secure. Your regiment will be in readi- ness to man the rifle-pits at a minutes notice. The main roads in your front will be guarded at a short distance from your front by a small picket, which will discover the character of every one passing. The utmost vigilance will be exercised, as well as exertion. The camps and fatigue parties must be silent as possible. All the forces will stand to arms at 3.30 a. m. The artil- lery officers will be notified to be on the alert. Every man must do his duty; his very best. Very respectfully, H. M. PLAISTED. Golonel. Eleventh Maine Volunteers, Commanding. (Copy to Colonels Dandy, Barton, and Drake. Page 78 78 OPERATJONS IN SE. VA. AND N. C. No. 24. Report of Col. Jo/i/n L. Otis, Tenth Connecticut Infantry, of oper ations May 1216. HDQRS. TENTH REGT. CONNECTICUT VOLUNTEERS, Bermuda Hundred, Va., May 17, 1864. CAPTAIN: I have the honor to forward the following report of the sbrvices performed by the Tenth Regiment Connecticut Volun. teers during the movements of the last four days: May 12 the regiment left the intrenchments at 1 p. in., in light marching order, without rations, and reached the Richmond turn- pike at the cross-roads about 4. Marched up the turnpike 1~- miles and bivouacked for the night in line of battle. Distance marched. 4 miles. 13th, resumed our march at 6.30 a. m. At 8 I received orders to move the regiment on in advance of the column, and take such a position at Clover Hill Junction as would best enable us to cover the approaches to that point. I placed the regiment in posi- tion near the railroad junction, sending out pickets with strong supports on the different roads. After our advance had crossed the railroad, the regiment resumed its place in column, our brigade having the advance of the flying column under General Gillmore, designed to turn the enemys position on the right. On reaching the rear of the enemys position near Proctors Creek, the regiment was placed in position to support a section of the Fifth New Jersey Battery, and as the enemy was driven from the works, moved up the hill in support of the artillery, taking position near the redoubt on the extreme right of the enemys works. While in this position had 3 men wounded by the enemys shells. At 6 p. in. received orders to man and hold a portion of the captured works, and at 10 was ordered on picket, relieving the Twenty-fourth Massachusetts, One hundredth New York, and five companies of the Seventh New Hampshire. Every officer and man was on dnty the entire night. There was sharp firing in our front most of the night, but too far distant to do us any harm. The enemy evacuated the remainder of his first line of defenses before morning. Distance marched to-day about 6 miles. 14th, soon after daylight, a strong line of skirmish- ers appeared in front of our position. General Gillmore sent an aide, with orders for me to ascertain at once whether they were our own or the enemys. Collecting a few men from the nearest picket- posts as skirmishers under Captain White, and leaving orders for a company to follow as reserve, I advanced to meet them. They proved to be the ~kirmishers of General Turners division advanc- ing to recover the communication lost in our rapid flank move- ment the day before. At 8 a. m. we advanced on the enemys second line of works, the Tenth Reoiment forming the reserve of the brigade. Being much annoyed ~y sharpshooters in the woods near the railroad, Colone~l Plaisted directe me o take position in the brigade line on the left, send forward a strong line of skir- mishers under Major Greeley, support him with the balance of the regiment, and if possible uncover the enemys position. This order was promptly executed. We drove the enemys skirmishers from the woods and established our line on the opposite side. We found the enemys main position to be a very strong one. About 600 yards from the wood on the right of time railroad was a strong re- doubt mounting five guns. On the left of the road, about 200 yard Page 79 CHAP. XLVIII.] SOUTH SIDE OF THE JAMES. 79 farther from the wood was another large redoubt. Two guns only could be distinguished in it, though from its size it evidently con- taine(l more. On the high ground in the rear of these redoubts and covering them completely were two strong lines of earth-works with flank defenses. I reported the enemys position to Colonel Plaisted, also to General Terry, who ordered me to move the regiment for- ward and advance the skirmishers into the open field, iiear enough to the enemys works to protect the FIrst Connecticut Battery, which was ordered to take position on our left, from the enemys sharp- shooters. The movement was executed with great promptness. We drove the enemys skirmishers into their works, taking the posi- tion indicated and holding it through the day, our skirmishers keep- ing the enemy from their guns in the redoubts most of the tinie. At 9.30 in the eveniiig the enemy made a determined attack along the entire front of the brigade. It was handsorn Ay repulsed at every point, my regiment having but five rounds of ammunition per man left when the assault commenced. We held the position until 11 p. in., and were then relieved by the Thirty-ninth Illinois Volunteers. Retiring a short distance we bivouacked in line of battle. Our loss during the day was 3 killed and 12 wounded, including 1 commis- sioned officer, Captain Brewster. 15th, the regiment remained in bivouac all day. Sent to camp for our shelter tents in compli- ance with orders from division headquarters. 16th, a furious can- nonade, with heavy volleys of musketry, commenced on our right at 4.30 a. m. The regiment was formed in order of battle immedi- ately, and at 6 was ordered forward to support an assault on the enemys works. No assault was made, however, and at 9.30 Col- onel Plaisted ordered me to move my command off by the right flank, taking care to keep up communication with Colonel Hawleys brigade, which was executiiig the same movement on our right. We moved off as directed, and on reaching the open field near General Gillmores quarters took position to cover the withdrawal of the ad- vance regiments of our brigade and a portion of Colonel Hawleys. While in this position the enemy attacked us in strong force, but was completely repulsed after a sharp engagement, in which we took several prisoners, our own loss being 3 killed and 15 wounded. As the enemy fell back I sent forward a body of skirmishers, under Captain Goodyear, -and ascertained they had left our front entirely. The regiment remained in this position until the killed and wounded had all been removed and was then withdrawn, taking a new posi- tion to cover the retreat of a portion of Whites brigade on our left. After they had all retired the regiment fell back to the position oc- cupied by our artillery, and joining the other regiments of the bri- gade. which had retired down the railroad, marched rapidly across to the Richmond turnpike and again formed in line of battle to cover the withdrawal of the troops in front. At 2 p. in., in com- pany with the Twenty-fourth Massachusetts, we advanced up the turnpike to the Half-Way House and were posted by Colonel Plais- ted on the left of the road to support a section of James battery. The enemy placed two rifled guns in position on the road in front and comnienced shelling us furiously. Our own artillery limbered up at the first shot, and at a second started for the rear at a gallop, not firing a shot. The shelling continued for half an Ii our. Lieu- tenant Hickerson and several men were hit with pieces of shell and spherical case-shot, but only one man was injured so as to be com- pelled to leave the ranks. The reginient remained in this positio Page 80 80 OPERATIONS IN SE. VA. AND N. C. [CHAP. XLVIII. about an hour and a half, and was then withdrawn, by order of Col- onel Plaisted, under a scattering fire of musketry. The regiment was then ordered back to the cross-roads and again formed on the Ches- ter road to cover the retiring column from attack in that direction, the Thirty-ninth Illinois holding the turnpike toward Petersburg. Remaining in this position until the rear of the infantry column had passed, we resumed our march, forming the rear guard thence to our picket-line. We reached our camp inside the intrenchments at 8 p. m. During the entire movement the conduct of the officers and men of the regiment was unexceptionable. The men behaved with un- flinching courage and steadiness, while the zeal, courage, and abil- ity with which the officers performed their duty in every emergency could not be exceeded. Our entire loss in the four days campaign was: Killed, 6; wounded, 30. Inclosed you will find the official list. * Very respectfully, your obedient servant, J. L. OTIS, Capt. CHARLES B. AMORY, Colonel, Commanding Regiment. A. A. A. G., 3d Brig., 1st Div., 10th Army Corps. No. 25. Reports of Lieut. clol. Winslow P. Spefford, Eleventh Maine In fantry, of operations May 9lO. HEADQUARTERS ELEVENTH MAINE VOLUNTEERS, Near Bermuda Hundred, Va., May 11, 1864. CAPTAIN: I have the honor to report the doings of my command during the late movement as follows: In obedience to orders from headquarters Tenth Army Corps, I reported with my regiment to Colonel Howell, commanding First Brigade, on the morning of the 9th, at 4 a. in., and at 7 oclock took up the line of march for the railroad at Chester, arriving there about 11 a. m. After a short stop at this point I w~s ordered with my command to return by the same route to the church near Ware Bot- tom, acting as rear gnard during the march. At this point I was stationed as a reserve for the outer pickets, remaining during the night and all of the next day, the 10th, a portion of my command being stationed on the road leading to the turnpike, about one-third of a mile to the left of the church, as a support for a section of the New Jersey Battery. I have no casualties to report. Some of my men were seriously affected by the excessive heat and rapid march on the return from the railroad to the church. About dark on the 10th I was ordered to the camp within the fortifications. I have the honor to be, captain, very respectfully, your obedient servant, W. P. SPOFFORD Lieutenant- Colonel, Commanding Regiment. Capt. ADRIAN TERRY, Assistant Adjutant- General, First Division. * Embodied in revised statement, p. 13 Page 81 CHAP. XLVIII.] SOUTH SIDE OF THE JAMES. 81 HEADQUARTERS ELEVENTH MAINE VOLUNTEERS, In the Field, Bermuda Hundred, Va., May 24, 1864. CAPTAIN: I have the honor to make the following report of my command during the four days fighting, 13th to 16th instant: Being on picket duty at the time of the advance, the 12th instant, the brigade moved without the Eleventh. That evening I was relieved from that duty, and spent the night in camp. At 6.30 a. m. of the 13th the following order reached me by hand of the orderly who was to conduct the regiments named to the front: HEADQUARTERS TENTH ARMY CORPS, In the Field, May 13, 18645.50 a. m. Col. J. B. HOWELL, Commanding Brigade: The major-general commanding directs that YOU send the Eleventh Maine and Sixth Connecticut Volunteers to this point immediately. * * * They will bring an issue of coffee and bread for two days. ISRAEL R. SEALY, Acting Assistant Adjutant-General. In obedience to the foregoing order the regiment was put in march and took a direct route for the turnpike, then up that road to the Half-Way House, where I reported in person to Maj. Gemi. B. F. Butler, who ordered my command to rest in the road until further orders. The men had nearly finished their dinners when at 11.30 oclock an aide came to conduct me to a position in the woods west of the house, ordering me to report to Brigadier-General Turner, whom I found there, and who ordered me into line of battle on the front line, with my right resting on the left of the One hundred and eighty-eighth New York State Volunteers. The skirmishers I found extended on my front and left flank, within 50 yards of my line of battle in each direction. The line of battle was formed, and men ordered to lie down at 12 m. Within an hour after the skirmishers, having advanced, were attacked by the enemy and driven in, pass- ing from my front by my right flank. Feai4ng my front was left exposed I sent out a scout, who reported a line unoccupied by skir- mishers, to fill which I detailed half of Company K, and sent Cap- tain Hill to establish the line, which done I had him relieved by Lieutenant Brannan (who volunteered for that duty), and gave the lieutenant positive orders to have his men keep deployed and fill the gap, if any existed, in the skirmish line, and be sure to connect with the skirmishers on his right and left. In a short time the lieutenant sent me word that he had not men enough; that a company was needed to make the line secure. I then sent Company I, Captain Merrill, instructing Captain Merrill that he would be in command, and to act cautiously. Soon firing was heard in that direction, and by 4p. m. a call was made for a stretcher, as Lieutenant Brannan had been shot and others wounded. Upon inquiry I ascertained my orders had been exceeded by Lieutenant Brannan, who pressed for- ward too near the brick house occupied by the enemys sharp- shooters, which movement cost the life of that brave officer and 1 private, with several others wounded. The fire of skirmishers was kept up through the remainder of the day and evening. At early dawn of the 14th I was informed the enemy had re- tired from his first line Qf defenses in my front (as also for the whole line probably), including the brick house, and that they were already occupied by Union troops. About 6 a. m. I received or- 6 R RVOL XXXVI, PT I Page 82 82 OPERATIONS IN SE. VA. AND N. C. [CHAP. XLVIII. ders to hasten with my regiment through the woods and report to Colonel Barton, Forty-eighth New York State Volunteers, com- manding brigade. Doing so he placed me on the left of his front line of battle and then the brigade was moved forward to and across the road leading easterly toward Drewrys Bluff. Here niy men at once threw up a light barricade of fence rails and logs, be- hind which they lay for twenty-six hours. Again were my skir- mishers thrown forward, to whom I gave orders to act coolly and not waste ammunition but make every shot tell. These were relieved every four hours, by which means each company and man had op- portunity to exhibit their mettle and yet rest what they could. All were prompt in the execution of my orders and manifested the cool, ready obedience exhibited by the Eleventh on other fields of danger. No shelter was procurable without tools (and my pioneers had been. detained by one of Colonel Howells subordinates) to secure even the reserve from casualty by the enemys missiles, as his rifle-shots passed coiitinually near, and his spherical case, from a howitzer oppo- site my front, bursting over, dropped splinters and contents among officers and men. Many narrow escapes were had, but few casualties were suffered. At 6 oclock eve orders came from General Turner to make a general advance along the line. I immediately threw for- ward four companies to support the two already on the skirmish line. The advance was made, but soon Captain Hill, in command of my companies, sent me the information that he had advanced over the enemys slashing nearly to his earth-works; should have entered them but for the want of support on the right by the One hundred and fifteenth New York Volunteers, and the left by the Sixth Connecti- cut Volnuteers, as both regiments advanced with him, but had fallen back 30 to 40 yards. I then ordered forward a sufficient force from the companies in support to cover his flanks, and instructed Captain Hill to move with caution. The enemy, seeing the flanking regi- ments fall back, returned to the position in the woods which he had left when our forces advanced. No doubt if properly supported by the other regiments, Captain Hill and the companies of the Eleventh would have entered and held the line of works they charged upon, and which success might have given a different result to the four days fight. Several wounded prisoners were brought in, captured on the grounds which my companies charged over. These prisoners asserted their loss from the fire of the Maine boys far exceeded that from the other regiments, and that my men must be all sharp- shooters, yet my orders had been generally obeyed to the letter and less than one-fourth the ammunition was expended by the Eleventh than was by those on the right and left. The general ascertaining the result of the movement, the advanced party was ordered to fall back, the companies in support withdrawn, and the line occupied for the night. On the 13th, at 9 a. in., i was ordered to report with my regiment to Colonel Plaisted, my proper brigade commander, which I did, and was thus relieved after forty-five hours constantly in line of battle, in position, skirmishing with the enemy all the time. Except the time occupied by inspection of arms, the overtasked officers and men were permitted to rest until 6 p. in., at which hour an aide of General Terrys came with orders for me to move my regiment to an outpost at the house beyond the railroad, on the extreme left, ac- companied by a section of artillery. Arriving at the spot I could gather little information relative to the position other than it wa Page 83 CHAP. XLVIII.] SOUTH SIDE OF THE JAMES. 83 the scene of a sliarp attack by the enemy the previous evening. I had my pickets posted, and soon received orders to intrench, and procuring tools the men were worked by reliefs all night, throwing up a good infantry breast-work on three sides of the square inclosing the house and several acres of land, the fourth or southeasterly side being already nearly covered by the parapet erected by the enemy, being a part of his line which was taken at the first attack. Here early on the 16th, while enveloped by the dense fog, the firing, yells, and cheers of the first fight of that day struck our ears. The men were just finishing their breakfast of coffee and hard bread, when orders came from the division commander for me to retnrn and occupy the position where the regiment rested the previous day. I had reached and formed line of battle when I was further ordered to a new position in the field nearer the enemys line, where the battle was then going on. After half an hour General Terry in person ordered me to hasten with the regiment to the turnpike in the short- est possible time. The march was taken up and I hurriedly led the regiment past the lines, where desperate fighting was raging, through the woods while the enemys shells went crashing through the trees, and emerged into the field at the Half-Way House. It was at a point some 200 yards from the front where the battle still fiercely rolled on that I formed my line, and at once, in the absence of orders, judging it to be my duty to take position for attack or defense, as might be necessary, before finding a commanding officer. Here a slight depression of the surface furnished a little c@ver to my men; as they lay on the ground in obedience to my command. Immedi- atel~, however, Major-General Smith rode up, and learning the name of the regiment thus suddenly appearing and the cause of it, lie re- marked, It must be one sent over to General Ames for securing the intrenchments, but you must remain where you now are for a while, prepared to open fire upon the enemy, as he seems to be approaching, and ordered my front slightly changed forward on the first company to uncover a regiment in front of my left flank, and to cover the ground where the Ninth New Jersey Volunt~eers had been forced out of the woods in which the foe was already advanced near~to the edge of the field and probably would, in the flush of success, make a sudden dash forward to complete his victory. The utmost coolness was maui- fested by the men while thus awaiting an opportunity to meet the enemy, and which would, I doubt not, have been proved in the hardest of fighting had the enemy advanced from his cover. He was satisfied, however, with some practice iii sharpshooting, by which several of my men were wounded, with frequent unsuccessful attempts to hit the offi- cers without rushing upon the force which stood ready to receive him. Nearly two hours passed thus, when orders came from General Smith to move down the turnpike amid report to Brigadier-General Ames for orders. Doing so, I had taken the road to Ware Bottom Church, where I had just learned General Ames held his headquarters, when I was overtaken by General Ames chief of staff, who, learn- ing my destination, directed me to countermarch to the pike, where Brigadier-General Martindale, as General Ames superior, ordered me to a position lower down and near the pike, where I formed line of battle, threw forward my skirmishers, and rested the men for half an hour, when orders caine to move to and down the pike a short distance and connect my left with the right of two regiments which were to advance also. I moved according to directions, but some time elapsed before I could find the co-operating force, an Page 84 84 OPERATIONS IN SE. VA. AND N. C. [CHAP. XLVIII. then it was a mile or more down the pike and half a mile from it in the woods. Here my picket-line was for a short distance on the pike, then obliquely to the left and made the connection, a force of the enemy constantly near, whose scouts were prowling about my line. At dark I was ordered to draw in my line, move to General Ames headquarters (in the woods somewhere), and return to camp. Guided by Adjutant Fox and Lieutenant Adams, who had been over the ground, I succeeded in passing unmolested through the woods, while, if I had moved down the pike as intimated, I should have come in collision with an overpowering force of the enemy before reaching assistance. I finally arrived at camp inside the intrenchments at 9.30 p. in., with all nearly broken down by fatigue and the constant watchfulness required during the previous ten days. I am thus minute in this report because I have during the whole time been disconnected from the command of the colonel commanding the brigade, acting under orders from some seven dif- ferent generals and brigade commanders~ It affords me great pleasure to say that too much praise cannot be accorded to nearly every man of my command during the time reported, all, recruits as well as veterans, behaving coolly, nobly, under ever y circumstance of danger and hardship in which they were placed. If less distinguished in battle than some other regi- ments, I am sure it is only from lack of opportunity rather than of courage or desire. Many expressed a strong wish to wade in while they lay in line of battle in the field at the Half-Way House. It is unnecessary to report to the colonel commanding the brigade the conduct of the officers of my command while detached rom under his personal observation, as he is sufficiently acquainted with them to judge for himself how well they would act under danger and hardship. A list of the casualties received has been sent to the brigade headquarters. Respectfully submitted. I am, captain, very respectfully, your obedient servant, W. P. SPOFFORD, Lieutenant- Colonel, Commanding Regiment. Capt. CHARLES B. AMORY, Actg. Asst. Adjt. Gen., Third Brig., Terrys Division. No. 26. Reports of Cot. Francis A. Osborn, Twenty-fourth Massachusetts Infantry, of operations May 7-16. HDQRS. TWENTY-FOURTH REGT. MASSACHUSETTS VOLS., Bermuda Hundred, Va., May 8, 1864. CAPTAIN: I have the honor to report that, in accordance with orders from division headquarters, the Twenty-fourth Massachu- setts Volunteers, under my command, took its position under arms in the Third Brigade, Col. IEL M. Plaisted, Eleventh Maine Volun- teers, commanding, at 8 a. m. May 7, and shortly afterward took up the line of march toward the 7~ailroad connecting Petersburg an Page 85 CHAP. XLV~.] SOUTH SIDE OF THE JAMES. 85 Richmond, which was reached at about 3 p. m. My regiment was formed on a wide and well-traveled road parallel with the railroad and separated from itby a narrow belt of brush and low wood and a meadow. These companies were sent into this wood to support a line of skirmishers. They soon sent back a report that the skir- mishers already occupied the railroad, when, by direction of Colonel Plaisted, I sent my pioneers to destroy as much of it as possible. Previous to this the poles of a telegraph running along the road were cut down, the wire removed, and the insulators broken. At this time the right wing was sent a short distance to the rear to guard a cross-road. There was in that vicinity a saw-mill and a large quantity of lumber, which they burned. After having occu- pied the main road for about an hour and a half, the left wing was ordered by Colonel Plaisted to rejoin the right, after calling in the detached companies, which was done. As these companies left the railroad a large force of the enemy appeared upon a hill beyond and poured a heavy volley into them, fortunately without effect. The pioneers report having torn up about 100 feet of rail before the order to fall back, and another line of telegraph. The bed of the road was very hard, and the tools which they had were of inferior quality; otherwise they would have accomplished more. They inform me that there was a large number of surplus rails and ties lying along the road. Soon after the regiment became reunited the brigade was dismissed and returned to camp. Only the detached companies were exposed to a direct fire, and I have therefore no casualties to report in my command. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, F. A. OSBORN, Colonel Twenty-fourth Massachusetts Volunteers. Capt. CHARLES B. AMORY, A. A. A. G., 3d Brig., 1st Div., 10th Army Corps. HDQRS. TWENTY-FOURTH REGT. MASSACHUSETTS VoLS., Bermuda Hundred, Va., May 19, 1864. CAPTAIN: I have the honor to report that the regiment under my command marched with the rest of Colonel Plaisteds brigade at noon on Thursday, May 12, and joined the rest of General Terrys division at a point on the Petersburg and Richmond turnpike about 3 miles distant from camp. It bivouacked at that place for the ~riday May. 13, it marched with General Terrys division by a circuitous route, crossing the railroad at Clover Hill Junction, and at 4 oclock came in the rear of the enemys works commanding the railroad and said to form p art of the out-works of Fort Darling. Here the regiment was deployed to support the Seventh Connecti- cut Volunteers until the capture of the breast-works, which was speedily accomplished. A short time after taking possession of them the Twenty-fourth was ordered to th~ir front to drive the enemy from a point of woods in which they had established themselves. The One hundredth New York Volunteers was on my left. I de- ployed a strong line of skirmishers, and after a short but sharp struggle, forced the enemy to retire. It then being dark I wa Page 86 [CHAP. XLVIII. 86 OPERATIONS IN SE. VA. AND N. C. ordered to withdraw the regiment and establish a picket-line along the railroad. At 10 p. m. the regiment was relieved and bivouacked within the works. Saturday a. in., May 14, marched with the rest of the troops to the attack of the second line; occupied a position in a field covered with low pines, my left resting on the railroad. In fi~ont was open field about 600 yards wide, on the opposite side of which were the enemys skirmishers in great force under the shelter of a Virginia fence. Being ordered to deploy a strong line of skirmishers, I sent out four companies; after some skirmishing the line advanced rapidly and drove the enemy back to their works. In the course of the afternoon I was compelled to relieve the four companies and send others, they having expended both their strength and their ammunition; these companies also expended all their ammunition. I was supplied by Colonel Plaisted with enough to furnish the regi- ment with 60 rounds. Hardly had this been issued to the skirmish- ers when the enemy, stealing cautiously up through a thick under- growth, made a rush upon them, but were repulsed with great loss. My regiment was relieved at 11 p. in., and bivouacked in the woods in rear of our position. Sunday, May 15, the reginient was engaged in no operations. Monday, May 16, the fighting commenced early in the morning. I was placed in reserve for Colonel Plaisteds brigade, but at about 10 a. m: was ordered to the right to support Hawleys brigade. On moving to the right, found the troops falling back in confusion, and could see no regiments of Hawleys brigade. Finding myself far in advance of any other organization, with both flanks exposed, and the enemy advancing rapidly, fell slowly back through the woods until I reached the brow of a hill in front of the works captured on Saturday. Having been separated from my brigade I reported for orders to Brigadier-General Marston, who was at that point with one reg- iment. He posted the Twenty-fourth on the, left of the Ninety- sixth New York Volunteers, where it remained until the wh& le of General Turners division had passed to the rear; then rejoined Colonel Plaisteds brigade and marched to the rear, halting in the field in which we had bivouacked on Thursday night. An hour later was ordered forward again with the Tenth Connecticut Vol- unteers to the Half-Way House, formed line on the right of the turnpike, and remained an houra portion of the time under artil- lery fire. On being withdrawn from this position marched in the rear of the column back to the intrenchments, reaching camp about 8 p.m. I deeply regret to report the loss of 3 valuable officers, who were instantly killed by musket-balls in the head while in the discharge of their duty. They were First Lieut. Mason A. Rea, Adjt. Charles G. Ward, and Second Lieut. Edgar Clough. Capt. John N. Part- ridge was also wounded in the head, but the wound is thought to be slight. The other casualties in my command were 4 enlisted men killed, 43 wounded, and 7 missing. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, F. A. OSBORN, Colonel Twenty-fourth Massachusetts Volunteers. Capt. CHARLES B. AMORY, A. A. A. G., 3d Brig., 1st Div., 10th Army Oorps Page 87 CHAP. XLVIII.] SOUTH SIDE OF TIlE JAMES. 87 No. 27. Reports of Gol. George B. Dandy, One hundredth New York In- fantry, of operations May 7 and June 1-2. HEADQUARTERS 100TH NEW YORK VOLUNTEERS, In the Field, May 8, 1864. SIR: I have the honor to make the following report of the part my regiment took in the attack made by the Third Brigade, Terrys division, on the enemy yesterday: The design was to cut the Richmond and Petersburg Railroad, an(l destroy as much of it as possible. It was understood, the enemy being in good defensive positions overlooking the railroad, that the movement to be successful must be masked as much as possible, consistent with the greatest celerity. The position of the brigade before the movement commenced was on an old road ig a wood, the direction of the road being about northeast by southwest, while the railroad was north and south. I was directed by Colonel Plaisted, commanding the brigade, to make a detour,. starting a little north of west, in order to take advantage of a wood which would mask the movement of the column. I succeeded in getting through this wood with some difficulty, keeping Company I, Captain Brunck, deployed as skirmishers well to our right to warn us of the approach of the enemy in that direc- tion. He marched and crossed the railroad, performed his duty with credit, and speaks well of the conduct of his officers and men. I finally emerged on a road running east and west, cutting verti- cally the Richmond turnpike, which at this point was about parallel with the railroad. On reaching the pike I found the woods in front, between the head of my column and the railroad, very difficult for skirmishers and impenetrable by any other description of troops. I therefore moved to the left on the turnpike until I found an open field, which, though swampy and cut up by small streams, was prac- ticable for infantry. Across this field, under a brisk fire from the enemy, I carried my colors, and, crossing the railroad, rallied my men on a height overlooking the rebel position and within short range of their advanced rifle-pits. The brigade of Colonel Barton was in the mean time advancing on our left and rear. A portion of his brigade, the Forty-eighth New York Volunteers, overlapping my regiment, joined me on the heights and planted its colors near the colors of the One hundredth New York Volunteers. We main- tained this position for about two hours, repelled two successive charges of the enemy on our position, and materially aided Colonel Bartons brigade on our left, the enemy pressing upon them being checked by our fire on his flanks. In the mean time my regiment and the remaining two regiments of the brigade were engaged in tearing up the railroad and destroying the telegraph lines, both on the turnpike and railroad. This having been accomplished to a con- siderable extentas far as I could see in the Richmond directionand understanding that one or more trestle bridges had been destroyed, the brigade withdrew in sufficient time to prevent a flanking move- ment of the enemy on our left, caused by the falling back of Bartons brigade, and retook the position from which the movement was made. The object of the movement was successfully accomplished, and as far as I was able to judge great damage inflicted on the rail- road and telegraph lines Page 88 88 OPERATIONS IN SE. VA. AND N. C. [C~r. XLVIII. Without intending to be invidious, I cannot refrain from men- tioning, for their coolness and gallantry, the following-named offi- cers, ~who came during the action under my immediate observation: Maj. D. D. Nash, Capt. Timothy Lynch, commanding the color company; Lieutenants Strivits, Adriance, Richardson, Sandrock, Peck (adjutant), Nichols, Pierson, McMann, Evans, and Howell. Doubtless the remaining officers of the regiment, judging from the reports that reached me, performed their duty well and gal- lantly, and I am only sorry that my duties, confining me mostly to one position, prevented me from bearing the testimony of an eye- witness to their good conduct. The same remark applies to the en- listed men who came under my eye; they stood well by their colors. Corporal Ball, Company G, acting principal musician, distinguished himself by taking a wounded mans gun and taking part in the en- gagement. in which he was wounded; also Musician Spencer Rose, Company E, a lad, who equipped himself with the arms of a dead man and took an active part. The color-se~geant, Donald D. McKay, Company C, and the color guard, also deserve notice for their zeal and gallantry during the day. Upon the whole, the regiment did itself credit on the occasion of this engagement. Both the surgeon, Dr. Kittenger, and the chap- lain, the Rev. J. B. Liun, followed the regiment under fire, and made the greatest exertions in the line of their respective duties; the first in caring for the wounded, and the second in removing them from the field. I inclose herewith a list of casualties. * GEO. B. DANDY, Colonel One Hundredth New York Volunteers. Capt. CHARLES B. AMORY, Acting Assistant Adjutant- General. CAMP ONE HUNDREDTH NEW YORK VOLUNTEERS, Near Bermuda Hundred, Va., June 4, 1864. CAPTAIN: I have the honor to submit the following report of the attack made by the enemy on the picket-line of the First Division on the 2d of June, on which occasion I was general officer of the day. The following regiments were on picket, viz, ElevenJ~h Maine on the right, Thirty-ninth Illinois, center, Seventh Connecticut on the left: At about 110.30 p. m. June 1 the enemy opened with artillery, first on the picket-line and afterward on the intrencl~ments, and con- tinued his fire about three-quarters of an hour. From that time until about 6 a. m. there was no firing of consequence on either side. Between 6 and 7 oclock on the morning of the 2d the enemy com- menced an attack on the Seventh Connecticut near the extreme left of our line. The portion of the picket-line occupied by this regi- ment commences about 60 yards to the left of the road leading directly from Sally-Port No. 2. It runs through the woods in con- tinuation of the general direction of the line at the center until it reaches an open field, here it is deflected to the rear for some dis * Embodied in revised statement, p. 13 Page 89 CHAP. XLVIII.] SOUTH SIDE OF THE JAMES. 89 tance, forming a slightly obtuse angle, and again turns to the left through the open field. The left of the line is somewhat irregular and cut up by ravines. At two points in front of this line, viz, at the angle above mentioned and near the left, the rebel picket-line is not more than 25 yards distant from ours. The attack was madc in greatest force at those two points, and our left flank turned by pierc- ing the hue at those places. The Seventh Connecticut having fallen back, the Thirty-ninth Illinois found itself attacked in flank and rear. Several squads of the Seventh having made their way through the woods and slashings to the headquarters of the picket-line, were posted in the woods on the left of the Thirty-ninth, and assisted in keeping the enemy at bay while the Thirty-ninth fell back by com- pany to the rifle-pits held by their reserve. The attack was con- tinued by the enemy along the line to the right in sufficient force to drive our whole picket force from its advanced rifle-pits, and a por- tion of the Thirty-ninth and Eleventh fell back as far as the open field in rear of the woods on the right; here they were rallied and the line reformed and pushed forward to the position now held.. Rifle-pits were immediately constructed and skirmishers thrown forward into the woods. They found the enemy in line on the road in the woods running in rear of our former line, and his sharpshoot- ers thrown forward in sufficient numbers to prevent any considera- ble advance of our troops. The enemys artillery was heard moving on the road, and was evidently being placed in position to check our advance. The attack was made in sufficient force to accomplish the object intended by the enemy, the occupation of our advanced line. Eight companies of the One hundredth New York Volunteers (200 men) and a detachment of 36 men of the Tenth Connecticut, reported to me at 10 a. m. They were employed as skirmishers and in digging rifle-pits. Later in the day the Third New Hampshire, under Lieutenant- Colonel Plimpton, gallantly retook a portion df the ground on our left, lost by the Seventh Connecticut in the morning, and the line now established is nearly the same as formerly, except at the cen- ter and on the right, where it is from 100 to 200 yards farther to the rear. I inclose a list of casualties during the day. Eleventh Maine Vol- unteers: Killed, 3 enlisted men; wounded, 4 officers, 29 enlisted men : missing, 1 officer, 4 enlisted men; total, 5 officers, 36 enlisted men. - Thirty-ninth Illinois Veteran Volunteers: Killed, 1 officer, 1 enlisted man; wounded, 1 officer, 17 enlisted men; missing, 12 en- listed men; total, 2 officers, 30 enlisted men. Seventh Connecticut Volunteers: Prisoners of war, 4 officers; killed, 3 enlisted men; wounded, 3 officers, 10 enlisted men; wounded and prisoners, 2 en- listed men; total, 7 officers, 92 enlisted men. Aggregate: Killed, 1 officer, 7 enlisted men; wounded, 8 officers, 56 enlisted men; pris- oners, 4 officers, 77 enlisted men; missing, 1 officer, 16 enlisted men; wounded and prisoners, 2 enlisted men; total, 14 officers, 158 enlisted men. I am, sir, your obedient servant, G. B. DANDY, Colonel 100th New York Vols., General Officer of the Day. Captain TERRY Page 90 OPERATIONS IN SE. VA. AND N. C. [CHAP. XLVIII. No. 28. Report of Capt. Frank C. Brunck, One hundredth New York In fantry, of operations May 14. CAMP ONE HUNDREDTH NEW YORK VOLUNTEERS, May 23, 1864. COLONEL: According t~ your request, I submit the following re- port of the operations of the skirmish line of the One hundredth New York Volunteers, May 14, 1864: At about 10 a. m. I was ordered to deploy my company (I) as skirmishers in front of the regiment, which I did, advancing them through a thick woods into a field partly covered with underbrush. Here II halted. Company H, Lieutenant Howell, was here ordered to my support, and (leployed his company on my left. The line was again advanced to a fence in front of a large open field, which was about a quarter to half a mile in length. On the left of this field was a thick woods, and on the other end of the field was a rail fence. Both in the woods and behind the fence the enemy were posted in large numbers. There was also a large house and outbuildings just in front of this fence. Here the enemy had a piece of artillery in position. They afterward withdrew this and burnt the house. On the right of my line were the skirmishers of the Seventh Connecti- cut Volunteers, and on my left the Twenty-fourth Massachusetts. The line remained behind this fence about an hour continually ex- posed to the enemys fire, when an advance was ordered. The men at once crossed the fence and went over the field at a double-quick, till about half way across, when the skirmishers on my right and left halted, so I ordered my men to lie down and open fire on the enemy, to advance slowly at the same time. It was not long before they (the enemy) showed signs of retreating, so I ordered the men to charge on the fence, which they did. The enemy fired a few shots and retreated to their works in great confusion. The right of my line advanced beyond the fence, but observing that the skirmishers of the Seventh Connecticut were falling back, I ordered them back to the rail fence. The Seventh Connecticut retired to the ruins of the house, which was to the right and rear of my line. The enemy observing, I suppose, this movement advanced out of their works and made a charge on us, but were driven back, I should judge, with considerable loss. They made three more attempts to retake the fence, but were repulsed each time. During the time I was skir- mishing, I was re-enforced by Company K, Lieutenant Strivits; Company B, Lieutenant Pierson, and Company D, Lieutenant Sand- rock. We took 3 prisoners. At about 7 p. m. I was relieved and took my company back to the reserves. I have to speak in the highest terms of all the officers and men en- gaged. Lieutenant Hoyt, Company I, particularly distinguished himself by his bravery and coolness, and was mortally wounded during the action. The loss in my company was as follows :* Your obedient servant, FRANK C. BRUNCK, Gaptain, One hundredth New York Volunteers. Col. G. B. DANDY, Comdg. One hundredth New York Vois. * Nominal list (omitted) shows 2 officers wounded, and 3 enlisted men wounded and 1 missing Page 91 (ThAP. XLVIII.] SOUTH SIDE OF THE JAMES. 91 No. 29. Report of Capt. Alfred P. Rockwell, First Connecticut Battery, of operattons May 910. HDQRS. FIRST CONNECTICUT LIGHT BATTERY, May 11, 1864. SIR: I have the honor to submit, for the information of the briga- dier-general commanding, the following report of the operations of the First Connecticut Battery during the 9th and 10th instant: In obedience to the orders of the genera] commanding, the battery was hitched up at 4 a. m. May 9, and moved forward in the place assigned it in the column of march immediately in the rear of the First Brigade, First Division, until we reached the Richmond and Petersburg turnpike road. At this point I detached the right sec- tion under Lieut. George Metcalf to take position upon this road about three-fourths of a mile from the cross-roads. About 11 oclock I moved these two sections of the battery down the turnpike toward Petersburg to the point where it crosses the railway and there halted. During the night the gnus were posted in the road at the point com- manding the road and railway. The following morning the battery was ordered to move back along the turnpike, and about 9 a. m. it commenced moving in the rear of the Second Brigade. As we ap- proached the cross-roads rapid firing was heard near the position in which my section was posted the day before. In obedience to the orders of the general commanding, I at once took the four guns with me rapidly forward to the cross-roads and up that road to the left, a few hundred yards, into the open field, where Lieutenant Metcalf with his section had for some time been actively engaged with the enemy. Finding him nearly out of ammunition, I ordered him to fall back to the turnpike and immediately came in batte~ry in the field and opened upon the enemy, who were firing slowly from a battery of 12-pound- ers. The enemy appeared to have at least six guns in detached sections, one section posted about 800 yards in my front, commanding the narrow cross-road and the other two sections, giving me a cross- fire from the right, and also down the turnpike. The section in my immediate front twice ceased firing and changed position. whether or not forced to do so by the fire of my guns I cannot say. Soon after the guns were in position firing commenced between our skirniishers and the enemy and increased. He twice charged from our left front and endeavored to carry the position, but was gallantly repulsed by my infantry support. I would take this occasion to express my appreciation of their efficient sup- port. The enemy pressed hard upon our right but were there repulsed also. When his fire ceased I fired slowly until the order came to retire gradually, when I fell back to a new position and remained there until the infantry were ready to retire; then I withdrew the battery slowly down the road to the turnpike and took a new position with one section in the road on the left of Gibb& bat- tery. The battery was in the field from an hour and a half to two hours, the greater part of the time under the fire of artillery and mnsketry more or less severe. In the latter part of the afternoon I moved back to camp within the intrenchments, as ordered by Gen- eral Terry. The right section was detached and under command of Lieutenant Metcalf during the greater part of two days. He reports that he remained in position on the turnpike about 1 mile from th Page 92 92 OPERATIONS IN SE. VA. AND N. C. [CHAP. XLVIII. cross-roads till ~5. 30 p. m. 9th instant. About 4 oclock the enemy with fire of musketry and artillery drove in the colored cavalry at the front, which fell back in disorder down the road into the low ground in advance of the section, and soon afterward went to the rear. He immediately opened upon the enemy, checked their ad- vance, and kept up a rapid and steady fire till their artillery ceased firing; then learning that they were endeavoring to turn the left hank and cnt off his retreat, he fell slowly back about a quarter of a mile, and subsequently took up a position about 200 yards to the rear of the cross-road, where he remained undisturbed. At 6.30 a. m. Colonel Voris ordered him up the cross-road to the left, which position he held, keeping the enemy in check by a rapid fire at intervals till I relieved him with the two other sections. He then withdrew to the turnpike, as I ordered, and reported to Captain Langdon on the right, and was immediatel or ere by Colonel Howell into a position near Ware Bottom Church, where he re- mained till evening, when he was ordered back to camp. I desire to call attention to the courage and good conduct of my lieutenantsMetcalf, Clinton, Bliss, and Smithand to the excel- lent behavior nnder fire of the non-commissioned officers and most of the men of my command. Where so many did their duty it is difficult to give preference to any one. My loss was 3 wounded. Herewith I give a full list as required. I had also 2 horses killed. I have the honor to be, very respectfully, your obedient servant, ALFRED P. ROCKWELL, Captain, Comdg. First Connecticut Light Battery. Capt. ADRIAN TERRY, Asst. Adjt. Gen., First Div., Tenth Army Corps. No. 30. Report of ~Japt. Zenas c~. Warren, Fifth New Jersey Battery, of operations May 10. HEADQUARTERS FIFTH NEW JERSEY BATTERY, Bermuda Hundred, Va., May 11, 1864. SIR: I have the honor to submit the following report of the oper- ations of the Fifth. New Jersey Battery during yesterday, May 10: About 9 a. m. Colonel Howell ordered me to move out two sections of my battery on the road leading to the right from the church, as the enemy were reported to be advancing in strong force in that direction. I arrived on the ground about 9.30 a. in., and placed my guns in position under the direction of Captain Langdon. I imme- diately opened on the enemy with shell and spherical case-shot, and, with the assistance of the rest of the artillery, succeeded in checking his advance and forced him to retire. My battery fired altogether 155 rounds of ammunition. I have the pleasure of being able to report no casualties, except a slight wound to 1 horse. I have the honor to be, sir, your obedient servant, Z. C. WARREN, Captain, Comdg. Fifth New Jersey Battery. Capt. ADRIAN TERRY, Assistant Adjutant- General Page 93 CHAP. XLVIII.] SOUTh SIDE OF THE JAMES. 93 No. 31. Report of Capt. Loomis L. Langdon, Battery M, First U. S. Ar- tillery, of operations Aliay 510. HDQRS. LIGHT BATTY. M, FIRST U. S. ARTILLERY, Bermuda Hundred, Va., ]Iifay 12, 1864. SIR: Pursuant to instructions from headquarters, I have the honor to report the movement of my battery (M, First U. S. Artil- lery): I arrived at Fort Monroe, Va., from Jacksonville. Fla., and joined General Butlers expedition May 5, 1864. On the 6th instant sailed up the James River to Bermuda Hundred. On the 7th of May my battery debarked and encamped at Mr. Watkins farm. On the 8th instant marched 5 miles to Mr. Hatchers place; subse- quently moved 2 miles farther. On the 9th marched to Ware Bot- tom Church, when one, the right, section, reported to Colonel Osborn, the left advancing to the Richmond and Petersburg turn- pike; in the evening left section joined the right at Ware Bottom Church, where we parked, Colonel Howell soon after assuming command of the extreme right of the line resting on James River, or Howletts. May 10, got battery into position, commanding all ap- pr?aches, at daylight. At 8 oclock the enemy attacked our line of skirmishers under Colonel Voris, who held their position for some time and then were steadily driven back until they came within range, when at about 12 m. my guns opened fire over the woods at the advancing columns of the enemy, throwing spherical case and shell, and from the position of the battery their (the enemys) ad- vance was almost immediately checked. At about 4 p. m. my firing ceased, the enemy having retired, leaving Colonel Howell the victor of a hotly-contested field. TPhe subalterns and men of my battery deserve great credit for the coolness, energy, and interest displayed throughout the entire day. At 8 p. m. we received order to retire to within the intrenchments. I take great pleasure in stating that no casualties whatever have occurred in my battery. I am, sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant, L. L. LANGDON, Capt. First U. S. Arty., Comdg. Batty. K, First U. S. Arty. Capt. ADRIAN TERRY, Asst. Adjt. Gen., Hdqrs. 1st Div., 10th Army Corps. No. 32. Report of Brig. Gen. John W. Turner, U. S. Army, commanding Second Division, of operations May 1216. HDQRS. SECOND DIvISIoN, TENTH ARMY CORPS, In the Field, near Hatchers, May 17, 1864. GENERAL: I have the honor to submit the following report of the part my division of the Tenth Corps took in the operations of the 12th, 13th, 14th, 15th, and 16th of May: In compliance with instructioiis from headquarters of the Tenth Corps, to hold my division in readiness to move at 4 a. m. on th Page 94 94 OPERATIONS IN SE. VA. AND N. C. [cHAP. XLVIII. 12th, under the orders of Maj. Geii. W. F. Smith, I reported to that officer through a staff officer at 3 a. in., arid moved my division iu obedience to his instructions on to the road leading to Ware Bottom Church. taking the right of General Weitzels command. General Brooks was to take up his march on my right, but, on reaching ~the vicinity of Ware Bottom Church, it was determined to move me forward on the road leading by Howletts place, placing my column on the right in order of march. Advancing by this road, I reached Redwater Creek about noon, and, finding myself in presence of the enemy, I took a position in rear of this stream and opened a communication with General Weitzel, who was on the turnpike on my left. Some skirmishing occurred during the afternoon, in which I sustained a loss of 22 men killed, wounded, and missing from the Third New York Volunteers. Before dark I advanced my line nearly half a mile with my skirmishers on Proctors Creek in which position I remained all night and until noon of the 13th. I then, in obedience to instructions, moved by my left flank to the turnpike and across Proctors Creek, taking up a position on the left of Geii- eral Brooks, and to the left of the pike, in a denee growth of timber and underbrush. I got into position about dark. The Eleventh Maine and Sixth Connecticut Volunteers were here added to my command. The skirmishers along my entire front immediately engaged the enemy, who were strongly intrenched in an open field in my front. Shortly after daylight next morning, it being reported that the enemy had abandoned his position, the whole line advanced about half a mile, when our skirmishers developed the enemy be- yond a belt of timber in our front and behind another series of intrenchments. Line was formed at the skirts of the timber, and in this position I remained during the 15th and 16th, General Terry, of the Tenth Corps, being on my left, my skirmishers engag- ing the enemy most of the time. Early on the morning of the 16th I received an order from Major- General Gillmore to hold my division in readiness to assault the enemy in my front. My skirmishers were then hotly engaged, and the enemys artillery in my front did much damage. About this time I received notice from General Brooks that the right of Gen- eral Smiths command was seriously attacked by the enemy, and that he (Brooks) was moving troops from his left to resist it, which would leave a gap on my right. I immediately sent word to Colonel Barton, commanding the brigade on my right, to close into his right and keep his connection with General Brooks, which he did. About 7.30 I received another notice from General Brooks that the enemy had gained some advantage over Weitzel, and that he was sending more troops to his assistanCe. At the same time I received an order from Major-General Butler to send a regiment to report to Major- General Smith. In obedience to this order, the One hundred and fifteenth New York Volunteers was sent, being the only regiment remaining in the second line of the Second Brigade. The others had all been used in extending my first line; and immediately the Third New York and One hundred and forty-second New York Volunteers, the only two regiments remaining in the second line of my First Brigade on my left, were rapidly marched to the right to fill the gap made by the removal of General Brooks troops. Before reaching their position, however, the enemy had advanced in considerable numbers, and was already in possession of the ground, and was pouring a galling flank and reverse fire on m Page 95 CHAP. XLVIII.] SOUTH SIDE OF THE JAMES. 95 left wing. The Third New York, under Lieutenant-Colonel Floyd, gallantly advanced and drove the e~iemy from this position, and formed line on the right of the Forty-eight h New York, forming the right of Bartons brigade, the One hundred and forty-second New York advancing in support of the Third New York, formed on its right, closing again my line with General Brooks. Feeling the importance of keeping my connection with General Brooks, lest the enemy should throw himself in between us, I withdrew a regiment (the One hundred and seventeenth New York) from the left of my line, and held it in reserve on my right, immediately sending word to General Gillmore what I had done. Shortly after this I received an order from General Gillmore to push everything to the right and attack the enemy, who were engaging Smith on his flank. Before disposition could be made for this the enemy charged my line on the left of Bartons brigade. The Sixth Connecticut Regiment, posted here, broke and fled, carrying with it part of the Seventy-sixth Penn- sylvania, and the enemy succeeded in reaching our lines and making some prisoners. But met in front by the Fortieth Massachusetts, undei~Colonel Henry, and on the flank by the Forty-seventh New York, Lieutenant-Colonel MacDonald, also by the head of General Terrys division, which was then coming up to the rear of my left, and the Seventy-sixth Pennsylvania being rallied by Major Eddy, Forty-seventh New York Volunteers, of my staff, they poured in a volley which soon drove the enemy back in disorder, leaving all their prisoners. While staying the progress of the enemy at this point, a further movement of General Brooks to the right had exposed a large gap, extending into the woods on my right, into which the enemy immediately thrust himself and threatened the capture of the One hundred and forty-second New York. Receiving instructions at this juncture, about 10 oclock, from Major-General Gillmore to fall back and take the road leading from the left of our position to the turn- pike, my line was withdrawn and formed in rear of General Terrys division. The One hundred and forty-second New York was hap- pily extricated by its commander, Colonel Curtis, under a severe front and flank fire. I subsequently marched my division and formed again to the right of the turnpike and rear of Proctors Creek, and late in the afternoon retired to my camp within the intrenchments. I am much indebted to my staff for the service they have rendered me during these operations, particularly during the engagement of the 16th. To Major Eddy is mainly due the rallying of the Seventy- sixth Pennsylvania. Accompanying this is a brief report of my brigade commanders. As soon as copies are made, a list of casualties will be rendered. My loss for the five days amounts in the First Brigade to 42 killed, 259 wounded, and 83 missing; in the Second Brigade, 26 killed, 181 wounded, and 10 missing; making a grand total of 601 killed, wounded, and missing. The Sixth Connecticut, temporarily attached to the division, lost 82 killed, wounded, and missing. I am, very respectfully, your obedient servant, JNO. W. TURNER, Brigadier-General, Uommanding Second Division. Brig. Gen. R. S. FOSTER, Chief of Staff, Tenth Army Corps Page 96 96 OPERATIONS IN SE. VA. AND N. C. [CHAP. XLVIII. No. 33. Report of Brig. Gen. John IF. Tnrner, U. S. Army, of operations of the First Brigade, May 910. HDQRS. SECOND DIVISION, TENTH ARMY CORPS, In the Field, May 11, 1864. GENERAL: I have the honor to submit the following report of the part Colonel Alfords brigade, of my division, took in the oper- ations of the 9th and 10th: In compliance with instructions, I moved from camp at 4.30 on the morning of the 9th, taking the road leading to Chester Station, on the Petersburg and Richmond Railroad. My instructions were to follow immediately after General Ames divis- ion till he should turn off to the left. I was then to proceed on and strike the rail- road on the right of General Ames position and near Chester Station. This was accomplished without opposition from the enemy, my forces arriving at Chester Station a little after 10 a. m. Work was immediately commenced destroying the station buildings, railroad track, and telegraph wire. Shortly after my arrival orders were received through Brig. Gen. R. S. Foster, chief of staff for Major-Gen- eral Gillmore, to move rapidly with my command down the railroad toward Swift Creek, with the view of forming on the right of the Eighteenth Army ~2Jorps in front of that stream. My column reached the Petersburg and Richmond turnpike about 3 p. in., and was held in column on that road until nearly dark, when it was placed in support of Heckmans brigade, of Weitzels division, of the Eighteenth Corps, which was then engaged with the enemy immediately in front of Swift Creek. The brigade was held in this position until 8.30 oclock next morning, when it was ordered to relieve General Heckmans brigade. It got into position about 10 oclock, and shortly after I was ordered by Major-General Gillmore to retire, and that my forces would constitute the rear guard. This was accomplished without attracting the attention of the enemy or his discovering our movement till we had withdrawn some 2 miles to the rear. No attempt was made at pursuit. The brigade reached camp at 8.30 p. m. on the 10th. Two casualties only occurred. I will here mention that as my pickets were returning from the line of Swift Creek a flag of trace was presented by the enemy, which being receiVed by the officer on outpost without my orders, and discovering our retrograde movement, I deemed it justifiable to detain it for a few hours till our movement had been ac- complished. The flag bore only a verbal message for the parole of wounded pris- oners and the burial of their dead, which was forwarded for the action of the major-general commanding. Before an answer was received, however; from him the communication borne by the flag was withdrawn in consequence of its deten- tion and a protest entered. The flag was detained till the information of our move- ments to the enemy was of no longer any consequence, when it was relieved, which was about 4 p. m. I will make further mention that the enemy in no wise slack- ened his fire from his battery enfilading the turnpike when his flag was presented, and his projectiles fell in immediate proximity when it was received. I forward herewith the report of Col. S. M. Alford, commanding brigade, engaged in the operations. I am, general, very respectfully, your obedient servant, JNO. W. TURNER, Brigadier- General, Commanding Second Division. Brig. Gen. R. S. FOSTER, Chief of Staff, Tenth Army Corps. No. 34. Reports of Cot. Samnel M. Alford, Third New York Infantry, com manding First Brigade, of operations May 916. HDQRS. FIRST BRIG., SECOND Div., TENTH ARMY CORPS, In the Field, May 11, 1864. CAPTAIN: I have the honor to report that pursuant to instructions from headquarters Second Division, Tenth Army Corps, this brigad Page 97 CHAP. XLVIII.] SOUTH SIDE OF THE JAMES. 97 left camp on the morning of the 9th of May, 1864, at 4 oclock, tak- ing up a line of march to the front, scouring the country as we adva~nced with skirmishers. At 10.30 a. m. arrived at Chester Sta- tion, on the Richmond and Petersburg Railroad, and commenced destroying the railroad and telegraph wires, under direction of Brig. Gen.J.W.T urner, commanding division. Having accomplished our object at this point, we marched to the left, on the line of rail- road, and at 3.30 p. m. arrived near Swift Creek bridge and formed the brigade in support of General Heckmans brigade, where we remained until the next morning at 10.30 oclock, when we were ordered to the front, relieving General Heckmans brigade, and re- mained about one and one-half hours, when we received orders to retire and cover the withdrawal of all the forces. We arrived in camp at 8.30 p. in., with casualties of but 2 men slightly wounded. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, S. M. ALFORD Colonel Third New York Vols., Comdg. Brigade. Capt. P. A. DAVIS, Assistant Adjutant-General. HDQRS. FIRST BRIG., SECOND DIV., TENTH~ARMY CORPS, In the Field, Va., May 17, 1864. SIR: I have the honor to forward a brief report of the operations of this brigade for the past four days: In conformity to orders from division headquarters, the brigade left camp at 4 a. in., 12th instant, passing our line of intrenchments about 4 miles, and forming line of battle near the house of Mrs. Friend, the right resting on the James River, the Third New York Volunteers being ~dvanced as skirmishers, the casualties amount- ing that day to a total of killed, wounded, and missing of 22. Biv- ouacked in line of battle. On the 13th the brigade marched forward to near the enemys front line of defense, our skirmishers being im- mediately engaged, but without any particular effect, the enemy having fallen back from his first line. On the morning of the 14th we advanced and took possession of their first line of defense, form- ing line with our right resting upon Bartons brigade. Continual skirmishing through th~ day and following night. The day of the 15th was passed in the same way. On the morning of the 16th, during a dense fog, our line was attacked in force, but held until ordered to retire. We returned in good order, losing no persons (except a few wounded), and reached camp about 8 p. in. Total number of casualties during the four days about 312, in killed, wounded, and missing, not including those of the Sixth Connecticut Volunteers, who were temporarily attached to the brigade. I regret to report Lieutenant-Colonel Floyd and Captain Couch, of the Third New York Volunteers, both severely wounded. A more complete report will be furnished as soon as possible. Total casualties in the brigade during the operatioiis: Killed, 33; wounded, 207; missing, 63; total, 303. I am, captain, very respectfully, & c. ~~ M. ALFORD, Colonel Third New York Vols., Comdg. First Brigade. Capt. P. A. DAVIs, Assistant A~jutant-General. 7 R RVOL XXXVI, PT I Page 98 98 OPERATIONS IN SE. VA. AND N. C. [CHAP. XLVIII. No. 3~. Report of Got. Guy V. Henry, Fortieth Massachusetts Infant~ry, of operations May 1216. HDQRS. FORTIETH MASSACHUSETTS VOL. INFTY., May 18, 1864. CAPTAIN: In accordance with instructions from division head- quarters, I have the honor to forward the following report: Friday, May 12, 1864, the Fortieth Massachnsetts, of the First Brigade, Second Division, left camp at daylight, and encamped for the night on the south side of Proctors Creek. May 13, moved to the north side and formed the left of the second line of the brigade. May 14, advanced at daylight, and occupied till evening the sec- ond line; at dark relieved the Third New York on the first line, and took command of the picket-line, composed of the Sixth Connecticut and Fortieth Massachusetts. May 15, performed picket duty. May 16, at daylight the Sixth Connecticut were driven in by the enemy. The regiment was then taken by me, and after some fight- ing, the original picket-line was established. When the fog lifted, Colonel Hawley, commanding brigade on my left, reported that the enemy occupied a rifle-pit on his right, and were enfilading his line; two companies of my regiment charged the pit, taking several prisoners, and occupied it. Later in the morning, the left gave way, and the enemy came pouring in, tnrning my flank; to prevent which, I withdrew my regiment from the first line, and formed them in line of battle, some 100 yards in rear. The line which re- mained (Bartons), received a flank and oblique rear fire, broke, and gave way. As soon as the rebels had formed, I charged them with my regi- ment, causing them to break and run. The first line was then estab- lished, and remained so till the right gave way. I then withdrew my regiment, posting them in rear of the enemys rifle- p its, placing skirmishers on the crest of the hill and there remained till all the troops had passed. My skirmishers were then withdrawn, and with my regiment I joined my brigade and proceeded to camp, arriving about 8 p. m. Lieutenant Weare, by.a misunderstanding, remained behind with 30 men as skirmishers. After waiting about two hours after we left, he came out of the woods, and finding the rebels in force, he scattered his men and with them escaped and joined his command. He was summoned to surrender, and pursued by the rebels. He deserves credit for his coolness. Privates Cosgrove, Company F, and Rankin, Company C, each killed, while the enemy were advancing, 3 men with shots, and then used the butts of their carbines, braining their fourth nian. The list of casualties~ I have already forwarded. I am, captain, very respectfully your obedient servant, GUY V. HENRY Golonet Fortieth Massachusetts Vol. Infty. Capt. P. A. DAVIS, Asst. Adjt. Gen., Second Div., Tenth Corps. * Embodied in revised statement, p. 14 Page 99 CHAP. XLVIII.] SOUTH SIDE OF THE JAMES. 99 No. 36. Report of Col. Harrison S. Fairchild, Eighty-ninth New York In fantry, of operations May 9. HDQRS. EIGHTY-NINTH REGT. NEW YORK VOLS., in the Field, Va., lliliay 11, 1864. SIR: In cornpliance with your note dated this day, I respectfully forward the following statement: Our brigade moved from the camp left in front. When arriving near the turnpike, by order of Colonel Alford, I deployed three com- panies as skirmishers and flankers. After crossing the pike, ad- vancing toward the railroad, I was detached from the brigade and ordered to advance near the railroad, and deploy men as flankers, and, with the balance of my force, hold the position at all hazards. Shortly after I was ordered to take a new position by General Turner, and advance a half mile north, and deploy four companies as skir- mishers, and to hold the position between the railroad and pike at all hazard. I took position (after advancing my skirmishers) near a farm-house with my reserve, had deployed an a vanced the com- panies, forming a line from the railroad to the pike and 1~ miles to the front, when I received an order to call in my force and join the brigade as soon as possible; the order was sent by Lieutenant Weaver, acting assistant adjutant-general to Colonel Alford. I im- mediately dispatched two messengers to the right and left of the line, and as soon as the four companies had returned commenced the march, conducted by Lieutenant Weaver. When we reached the railroad, at the water-tank, General Terrys division was on the move, and one regiment was on the railroad. Not to interfere with his column I marched around the water-tank on the right of the road, and moved forward rapidly, hoping to pass his column, but the road was too narrow, and availing myself of an opening in the column I recrossed and took the bank and pushed on, hoping to pass at a gate one-half mile ahead. When I arrived at the gate, General Terry was on the opposite bank, and the head of his column had passed on the railroad. I halted in order to let them pass, when General Terry halted a com- pany of engineers, and rode down to me, and said he was waiting for me, and he had opened his line to let me pass. I immediately crossed the railroad to the opposite bank, and kept the field until I was forced to take the railroad, on account of a deep ravine. Lieutenant Weaver conducted me to a point where our brigade was at a halt, and there left me. I had made a forced march of 3 miles with men who were exhausted With skirmish duty. As soon as I halted my regiment the brigade moved. The officers of my regiment came to me, and said they could not go on without rest, and 16 men fell on the field with sunstroke. I made details and had these men carried to the rear, and water brought, dispatched my adjutant for ambulances, and detailed men to take care of the sick. During this time some officer came to me and requested to know if I would move soon. I answered him I would move in a few minutes, but I did not wish to detain his column. He could pass me, and I would follow him, which I did until I came to the junction of the railroad and pike,~ [where] I took the field. I halted for a moment to let the column pass, and then joined the brigade on the hill on the pike, the other column going down the railroad. I am not aware of halting my regiment, except to allow other troops to pass without interfering with them, My aim was to keep out of the way, The only fault Page 100 100 OPERATIONS IN SE. VA. AND N. C. [cH~. XLVIII. if any, was an act of humanity in providing for 16 men with sun- stroke, and in doing so, I did not occupy more time than was nec- essary to rest men exhausted by severe picket duty. When I joined the brigade they were at a halt and remained so for two hours. Yours, very respectfully, H. S. FAIRCHILD, Colonel Eighty-ninth Regiment New York Volunteers. Capt. P. A. DAVIS, Asst. Adjt. Gen., Second Division, Tenth Army Corps. No. 37. Report of Got. N. Martin Gurtis, One hundred and forty-second New York Infantry, of operations May 13-16. HDQRS. 142D REGIMENT NEW YORK VOLUNTEERS, Bermuda Hundred, Va., May 19, 1864. SIR: In compliance with orders received in your communication of the 17th instant, I have the honor to make the following report of the operations of my command during the four days, commencing on the 13th and ending on the 16th of May instant: My regiment left cam p inside of the lines about 4.30 a. m. on the 13th instant, and moved with the First Brigade, Second Division, up the river road between the Richmond turnpike and James River. On reaching the road leading to the Howlett house the five right companies of my regiment were detached, under command of Lieut. Col. A. M. Barney, and sent to skirmish the country toward the river, one of which companies took and destroyed a small sloop be- longing to the enemy. These companies rejoined the regiment when miear Brandy Creek, and were deployed as skirmishers, the remainder of the regiment acting as support to the line. I re- mained on the cross-road running from James River to the turn- pike near this creek, doing picket duty on the extreme right, until the afternoon of the 15th instant, when my regiment was ordered to report to the commander of the First Brigade, Second Division, at the front, where I arrived at about ~ p. in., and was detained in rear of the brigade as support untit the following day at about 7 a. in., when I received orders from the brigade coni- mander to follow the Third New York Volunteers, and while on the march I received orders from General Turner in person to form my regiment in line in front of the barracks and on the left of the Third New York Volunteers, which was done accordingly. I remained in this position some fifteen minutes under a galling fire from the enemy and suffering some loss in wounded, and was then ordered to advance to the edge of the woods and occupy the rifle-pits on the extreme right of the Second Division. I moved into this position and at once advanced a line of skirmishers in the front of my regi- ment. Soon after occupying this position I received orders from General Turner to hold it at all hazards. About this time a force of the enemy was discovered moving to my right and rear, and opened fire on my line from their skirmishers, of which fact I noti- fied General Turner, but receiving no further orders, sent a second and third time by Maj. N. G. Axtell, of my regiment, to inform the general that my regiment was in great danger of being outflanked and a portion cut off. I then received orders to face by the rear rank and retire in line, but having advanced a few paces in obed Page 101 Ca~p. XLVIII.] SOUTH SIDE OF TIlE JAMES. 101 ence to this order, was opened on by a line of the enemy on my right arid rear at about 500 yards, upon which I gave the command to move at double-quick, which, from the destructive character of the enemys fire au~ roughness of the ground, caused the regiment to break in confusion. However, on reaching the earth-works, they rallied and returned the enemys fire in g~ood style, and drove them to cover. The fire from the rear being very destructive I found it impracticable to reform at this place, and ordered a farther retreat to the woods on the left of the earth-works, where I formed in line and advanced skirmishers. By order of General Terry, I retired from this position and again formed on the hill across the ravine, where I remained a short time and was ordered to retire with the brigade across the turnpike, where we remained in line some two hours, with two companies as skirmishers, when orders were received to return to camp, which I entered at 8 p. m. Every order received by me was executed by the regiment, and I forbear to particularize or specially name any one where all behaved so well. My loss during the period stated is as follows: Seven enlisted men killed, 3 officers and 49 enlisted men wounded, and 22 enlisted meii missing. I have the honor to be, very respectfully, your obedient servant, N. M. CURTIS, Lient. JOHN E. SHEPARD, Colonel, Commanding. Acting Assistant inspector-General. No. 38. Reports of Col. William B. Barton, Forty-eighth New York Infantry, commanding Second Brigade, of operations May 715. HDQRS. SECOND BRIG., SECOND Div., 10TH ARMY CORPS, In the Field, 1/a., May 8, 1864. CAPTAIN: I have the honor to report that in accordance with in- structions from division headquarters, I yesterday morning reported with my command to Maj. Gen. W. F. Smith, commanding Tenth Army Corps, and was by him directed to report to Brigadier-General Brooks, of that corps, under whose command I moved out some 3 miles on the Petersburg dirt road. I was there ordered by Gen- eral Brooks to advance in the direction of the Richmond and Peters- burg Railroad, nearly due west, which I was to reach, if possible, and destroy. At this time the enemys line of skirmishers was in full view on an open field near the supposed line of the railroad, the exact position of which I was unalile to ascertain definitely. Our advance soon developed one of the positions occupied by the enemy on commanding ground near the crossing of the Richmond and Petersburg turnpike with the railroad. In accordance with positive orders of Brigadier-General Brooks, I moved by the flank covered by a strong skirmishing force from the Forty-eighth New York Volunteers, and did not form line of battle until I had crossed the open space and the skirmishers were hotly engaged, and the enemys artillery fire had become quite heavy and annoying. The difficulties of the ground, as we proceeded, were of the most discouraging character, the woods being almost impenetrable and much obstructed by fallen trees and strong fences. It was also Page 102 102 OPERATIONS IN SE. VA. AND N. 0. [CHAP. XLVIIL very hilly, the bottom lands being soft and boggy. Moreover, I dis- covered that the railroad made a short turn to the right and was consequently compelled to change my direction of march. Arriving within 200 yards of the railroad, I found in its front an open road, a very high and strong fence skirted by thick underbrush, ~a ditch some 2 feet wide and 3 feet deep, with a belt of open, marshy ground. These were all swept by an enfilading and direct fire of artillery and infantry. My men advanced over these obstructions and through this heavy fire, carrying the railroad embankment and a hill beyond it, on which the enemy were strongly posted under cover, planting their colors on the crest, although entirely unsupported by artillery. This position we held, although flanked on our left, until directed by General Brooks to retreat, which we did slowly, bringing all our wounded and as many of the dead as possible. Meanwhile we had cut three several lines of telegraph in many places and de- stroyed several hundred yards of railroad, tearing up the rails and burning the ties. A saw-mill with a large amount of sawed lumber was also burned. I learn from reliable sources that the enemys loss in one single regiment was 60 killed. Inclosed I send a list of casualties, * which amount to 196, including several officers. I desire to commend in the strongest manner the conduct of my command on this occasion. I was never before engaged where there were so many difficulties of ground to overcome, and to crown all, the heat was extremely op- pressive, many men actually falling in the ranks from sunstroke, and all, at the conclusion of the days work, being completely ex hausted. My thanks are also due to Capt. W. L. Lockwood, Forty-eighth New York Volunteers, acting assistant inspector-general; Lient. C. Hale, Forty-eighth New York Volunteers, acting assistant adjutant- general; Lieut. F. J. Magee, Seventy-sixth Pennsylvania Volun- teers. aide-de-camp, and Lieut. F. D. Barnum, One hundred and fifteenth New York Volunteers, aide-de-camp, of my staff, whose duties were well performed under most difficult and trying circum- stances. The wounded were promptly and carefully cared for under the directions of Surg. J. L. Mulford, Forty-eighth New York Volun- teers, chief medical officer of the brigade. Total casualties of the brigade during the operations: Killed, 14; wounded, 152; missing, 30. Very respectfully, captain, your obedient servant, W. B. BARTON, Colonel Forty-eighth New York Vols., Comdg. Brigade. Capt. P. A. DAvIs, Assistant Adjutant-General. HDQRS. SECOND BRIG., SECOND Div., 10TH ARMY CORPS, In the Field, Va., May 17, 1864. CAPTAIN: I have the honor to submit the following report of the operations of the brigade under my command from the 12th to the 16th, inclusive: My first line of battle was formed on the 12th, on the right of Weitzels division, Eighteenth Corps, on the ridge of hills near the house of Mrs. Friend in rear of the turnpike, and reaching nearly * Embodied in revised statement, p. 14 Page 103 CHAP. xLvm.] SOUTU SIDE OF TUE JAMES. 103 to the James River. The troops bivouacked in this position during the night of the 12th, and at 12 m. on the 13th moved to the turn- pike and went into position in front of the enemys works, on the extreme right of the Tenth Corps, joining the left of the Eighteenth. In accordance with the orders of the division commander, I threw forward a strong line of skirmishers, which was constantly engaged with the enemy, until daylight revealed the fact that their first line of works had been evacuated during the night. The fact was at once reported and the works entered by the skirmishers, who were soon followed by the main body, which then took position in front of the enemys second line, two regiments being held in reserve about 300 yards in rear. Heavy skirmishing followed, continuing during the 14th, the enemy meanwhile using his artillery freely. On the morning of the 15th, my right flank having beeu~ exposed by the withdrawal of Brooks division, of the Eighteenth Corps, the enemy got ul*n that flank, and although attacking vigorously was handsomely repulsed. I was then re-enforced by the Third and One hundred and forty-second Regiments New York Volunteers, of the First Brigade. Meanwhile the One hundred and seventeenth had been relieved from my left, and Colonel Henry deeming himself in a precarious situation, owing to the retreat of the Sixth Connecticut, also withdrew his regiment, the Fortieth Massachusetts. This opened my left, which I at once reported to Brigadier-General Turner, commanding Second Division. Before I could hear from him in reply, the enemy appeared in force on both flanks, displaying three battle-flags on the left and the same number on the right, and attacking fiercely, the fire on the extreme right being on the flank and in reverse. At this time I was near the center of the line, when my left suddenly gave way, kit was at once rallied, and, returning to its old position, succeeded in temporarily repulsing the enemy, re- capturing most of the prisoners and taking a number in return. I was then directed to retreat, which I succeeded in doing in better order than could have been expected under a very heavy fire, bring- ing off most of the dead and wounded. Inclosed I send a list of casualties* amounting to 217, including officers, 2 of whom, among my most valuable, were killed. I have the honor to be, captain, very respectfully, your obedient servant, W. B. BARTON, Cot. Forty-eighth New York Vols., Comdg. Second Brig. Capt. P. A. DAVIS, Asst. Adjt. Gem., Second Div., Tenth Corps. ADDENDA. Itinerary of the Second Brigade, Second Division, Tenth Army Corps, May 4-31. t May 4.Brigade left Gloucester Point, Va., and proceeded to Ber- muda Hundred, on the James River, joining the forces under Major- General Butler, Maj. Gen. W. F. Smith [Q. A. Gillmore] command- ing the corps and Brig. Gen. J.W. Turner commanding the division. May 7.The brigade was placed temporarily under the orders of Brigadier-General Brooks, who directedC ol onel Barton to advance on the Petersburg and Richmond Railroad. Facing the brigade * Nominal list omitted. From return for May Page 104 104 OPERATIONS IN SE. VA. AND N. C. [Ca4P. XLVIII. were almost impenetrable roads, high fences, ditches, both deep and wide, with a beft of soft marsh in front of the railroad embankment. These difficulties were all well surmounted and the railroad, though swept by a direct and enfilading fire of artillery and infantry, suc- cessfully carried, a large portion of the track torn up, and the ties. with a saw-mill and a large quantity of sawed lumber, burned. The position was held until the troops were ordered by General Brooks to retire, which they did very deliberately, carrying off their dead and wounded. The casualties in this engagement amounted to 196, including several officers. May 12.Skirmishing with the enemy. ]klay 13.At daylight occupied his first line of works near Drewrys Bluff. May 14.Heavy skirmishing with artillery fire during the entire day. May Ui.The enemy attacked the brigades right flank and were handsomely repulsed, after which, both flanks becoming exposed through the withdrawal of troops, he attacked in force both right and left, showing on each flank three battle-flags. The left suddenly gave way, but was immediately rallied and returned to its former position, temporarily repulsing the enemy, recapturing many pris- oners, and taking a number in return, when orders came to retire. which were successfully carried out under a heavy fire, bringing oft most of their dead and wounded. Casualties, 217, including many valuable officers. May 16 to 27, inclusive, constantly engaged at the front, erecting breast-works and acting as reserve. May 28.Left Bermuda Hundred, crossing the Appomattox River on pontoons same night, and marched to City Point. May 29.Left City Point per steamer in the afternoon and arrived at Fort Monroe on the morning of the 30th; from thence proceeded to the White House, Va., on the Pamunkey River. May 31.Disembarked and at once received marching orders, its designation being changed from Second Brigade, Second Division, Tenth Army Corps, to First Brigade, Third Division, Eighteenth Army Corps. No. 39. Report of Lieut. John H. George, Fourth New Jersey Battery, of operations May 10. BERMUDA, VA., May 11, 1864. CAPTAIN: I have the honor to report that in acccordance to your orders, issued and delivered to me at 2 a. m. May 10, I pro- ceeded with my section to report as directed to Major Butler for duty on outpost. Having found the officer designated at a point near the outer intrenchments covering our front, I awaited his orders. Under his directions I marched my command to a point upon the Petersburg and Richmond turnpike, accompanied by two companies of the One hundred and sixty-ninth Regiment New York Volunteers Page 105 CHAP. XLVIIL] SOUTH SIDE OF THE JAMES. 105 at which point I was halted by Colonel Voris, commanding the forces of that line, who immediately designated a point upon the turn- pike, where I placed my guns in position, bearing directly upon the road, supported by the companies of infantry which had marched with me. After having inspected my position, I found that no vedettes or pickets were post d in my front, and fearing that the very exposed position of my guns would draw upon them a quick and heavy attack, I requested the officers commanding my supports to post a line of pickets covering my front, and for the purpose of observ- ing the movements of the enemy. A line was established in a very irregular and unsafe manner, the men composing it retiring before they had attacked our position. The, first indications of the presence of the enemy given me was at 10 a. in., at which time he made a most furious attack upon me from a heavy under- wood, skirting my right and left flanks at a distance not to ex- ceed 50 yards, thus completely raking my section. I immediately commenced firing, using canister, and continued to do so until or- dered by the colonel commanding my supports to retire. At this time an overwhelming attack was made upon my right and left flanks. My support upon the left evinced great disorder and confusion, but upon the entreaties of the colonel commanding, and my own assurance that I would give them a charge of canister, they be- came more steady, but afterward broke and fled to the rear, which occasioned me the loss of one of my pieces. I withdrew my remaining piece and carriages to the rear, a distance of 100 yards, wherelagainplacedmyselfinpositionand resumed my fire with shot and shell, having for my support a portion of the Seventh Regiment Connecticut Volunteers. - I continued firing until the flames of the burning wood upon my left became intolerable, and the enemy had gained a distance of 200 yards in rear of my right flank. After ceasing my firing, I advanced with my uninjured can- noneers, who were joined by a portion of my support, and recap- tured and withdrew my lost piece, after which I retired my section a distance of one-half mile, where I reported to Brig. Gen. A. H. Terry the condition of my command, who instructed me to remain for a short time, which order I obeyed, after which was instructed to take my pieces to the rear. During the engagement, which lasted a period of twenty minutes, I expended 48 rounds of ammunition, was wounded myself by being struck in two places upon my person, and having 8 men disabled and 5 horses shot. I would most respectfully state that during the engagement the colonel commanding my supports of the One hundred and sixty-ninth Regiment New York Volunteers, behaved with great gallantry, and by his brave and manly example in striving to collect his par- tially disorganized force, assisted me greatly in saving my guns and my noble men. I am, most respectfully, yours, J. H. GEORGE, Second Lieutenant Fourth New Jersey Battery. Capt. GEORGE T. WOODBURY, Commanding Fourth New Jersey Battery Page 106 106 OPERATIONS IN SE. VA. AND N. 0. [CnAP. XLVIII. No. 40. Report of Gol. Richard White, Fifty-fifth Pennsylvania Infantry, commanding First Brigade, Third Division, of operations May 910. HDQRS. FIRST BRIG., THIRD DIV., TENTH ARMY CORPS, Fosters, near Bermuda Hundred, Va., May 11, 1864. LIEUTENANT: I have the honor to report that on Monday, May 9, at S a. in., the regiments composing this brigade marched to the line of Richmond and Petersburg Railroad, at a point near the intersec- tion of the turnpike road connecting those two cities with the rail- road. Details were made from the command to assist in tearing up the superstructure of the railroad. This duty was performed rapidly and effectually. Some hundreds of yards of track were torn up; the ties piled up and burned. The timbers forming portions of the road- way over culverts and ditches burned also. The availability of this road as a line of communication and transport was completely de- stroyed. Many hundred yards of telegrap~zi wire were also cut down and rendered useless, both on line of turnpike and railroad. Pending these operations no enemy was seen and no resistance encountered. About 10.30 a. m. the command left the point above mentioned and marched, following the line of the turnpike toward Swift Creek, in front of Petersburg. Beyond Bake-House Creek indications of the enemy were observed. Some shelling occurred here, but without damage to this command. Continuing the march the command came up with the brigade of Brigadier-General Weitzel, of Eight- eenth Army Corps, which was engaged with the enemy, and was ordered to support that general. In the action, becoming exposed to the enemys artillery fire, some casualties occurred in the Fifty- fifth Pennsylvania, Eighth Maine, and Ninety-seventh Pennsyl- vania Regiments, of this brigade. Toward dark, the firing having ceased, the brigade formed into line, the left resting near a little church near Swift Creek, and bivouacked. On Tuesday, May 10, about 10 a. in., the regiments composing the brigade were ordered to the support of Brigadier-General Terrys division, which was hotly engaged with the enemy near the point where the railroad had been destroyed. The command moved up with commendable rapidity, but on its arrival the enemy had already retired. Portions of the different regi- ments were sent out to observe, reconnoiter, & c.; line was formed, left resting on turnpike. About S p. m. the command was ordered back to this point, where it arrived shortly after. Although the heat of the sun during the two days (9th and 10th) was excessive, yet the men marched rapidly and without much apparent suffering, and generally well closed up. I inclose list of casualties. * I have the honor, lieutenant, to be, very respectfully, your obedi- ent servant, R. WHITE, Got. 55th Pa., Uomdg. First Brig., Third Div., 10th A. C. Lient. C. A. CARLETON, Acting Assistant Adjutant-General. * Embodied in revised statement, p. 14 Page 107 CHAP. XLVIfl.] SOUTH SIDE OF TILE JAMES. 107 No. 41. Report of Lieut. Got. Henry Boynton, Eighth Maine Infantry, of operations May 910. HEADQUARTERS EIGHTH MAINE VOLUNTEERS, In the Field, May 11, 1864. I have tlie honor to report that, in obedience to orders, this regi- ment marched from bivouac at Gills farm at 4.30 oclock on Mon- day morning, May 9. On reaching the Richmond and Petersburg Railroad, 3 miles distant, three companies were sent to the right, and did very effective service in tearing up the track and destroying the rails. The other seven companies were then formed by the side of the track, and turned it directly over; then, moving the length of the battalion to the right, turned over another long section of rail track, and sent it sliding down a steep embankment. It was a grand sight, the long line of track turning over like a huge furrow. After proceeding down the track abont 2 miles, we turned off on the Rich- mond turnpike toward Petersburg, and reached Arrowfield just as the heaviest firing commenced, and formed line of battle nnder a heavy fire. The enemy fired high, their shot and shell mostly flying high over us, and wounding only 1 man, Private W. F. Sherwin, Company F. After the battle was over we slept in line of battle on the field in an advanced position. The next day we were ordered to make a forced march to aid General Terry, who was engaging the enemy several miles distant, on the right of the Tenth Army Corps. We advanced there shortly before the enemy finally retreated, and formed in support of Battery D, First U. S. Artillery, whose six guns were in position in an open field. This battle having closed by the defeat of the enemy, we returned to Gills farm. The regiment suffered much from the extreme heat on both days. Both officers and men exhibited hardy endurance, and behaved in the most ad- mirable, manly, and soldier-like manner. Everythiiig was done in good order. I have the honor to be, very respectfully, your obedient servant, HENRY BOYNTON, Lient. Got., Gomdg. Eighth Regt., Maine Votunteers. Lieut. GEORGE W. HUCKINS, Acting Assistant Adjutant-Generat. No. 42. Reports of Got. Jeremiah G. Drake, One hundred and twelfth New York Infantry, commanding Second Brigade, of operations May 6-16. HDQRS. SECOND BRIG., THIRD DIv., 10TH ARMY CORPS, Near Bermuda Hundred, May 20, 1864. COLONEL: Pursuant to directions from department headquarters, received through intermediate headquarters, I have the honor to forward the following report of the part taken by my command while on expeditions under command of Maj. Gen. W. F. Smith, commanding Eighteenth Army Corps, which embrace the operations of the 6th and 16th instant: On the 6th instant, in the affair under Brigadier-General Brooks, my brigade by order followed that of Colonel Plaisted. When w Page 108 los OPERATIONS IN SE. VA. AND N. C. reached the forks in the road, about 1~ miles out, I was ordered to place my brigade so as to support Battery L, Fourth U. S. Artillery, which was posted on the left-hand road. I accordingly placed the One hundred and twelfth New York Volunteers, Lieut. Col. E. F. Carpenter commanding, in line of battle on the le ~t of the road and battery, and the Ninth Maine Volunteers, Col. S. Emery command~ ing, on the right, throwing out skirmishers to the front. The Thir- teenth Indiana and One hmidred and sixty-ninth New York, com- inanded respectively by Col. C. J. Dobbs and Col. John McConihe, were held in reserve, Lrming a second line. About 12 m. I was ordered to make connection with General Burnhams command and support his movement. Having received no information of the posi- tion of General Buruhams command, nor of the nature of his move- ment, some difficulty was experienced in making this connection. It was established, however, and I moved my command forward, in conformity with the movement of General Buruhams command, with five companies of the Thirteenth Indiana Volunteers as skir- mishers in front. The enemy retired from the position in which they had been in line upon our approach, leaving upon the ground some knapsacks, blankets, and equipments. Having advanced about one-half mile, and reached the top of the hill across the ravine, I halted the command, that of General Burnham having also halted. Reconnoitered the two rpads in front, caused the pioneers to clear the right-hand road of old fallen timber, advanced the command and one section of the battery to a position within range of the enemys battery across the valiey and near the railroad, about two- thirds of a mile in advance. My skirmishers drove those of the enemy from our immediate front and across the valley, and after about half an hour our artillery silenced that of the enemy. It was now near 5 p. in., and the fighting on the right having apparently ceased, I, by direction of the assistant adjutant-general to General Brooks, held my command at that point and awaited orders. At about 6 p. m. I withdrew my command, pursuant to orders, follow- ing General Burnhams brigade. The casualties in this affair were as follows * On the 12th instant I was again ordered to the front with my bri- gade, and went to Walthall Junction, but subsequently took position this side of the valley and railroad, by order of Brigadier-General Ames. On the morning of the 15th I proceeded with two regiments of my brigade up the pike to Half-Way House, near Drewrys Bluff, leaving two regiments in position guarding the approaches from Petersburg. I do not suppose any report of the perforni- ance of these two regiments to be necessary in this place. Of the part taken by the other .two (the One hundred and twelfth New York Volunteers and Ninth Maine) under m~ command in the battle of the 16th instant, the following report is submitted: Soon after light on the morning of the 16th instant, there being heavy musketry firing at the froi~t, I received a verbal and hasty order, through Brigadier-General Ames, to send one regiment to the right immediately, as the enemy were turning our right. I immediately (lispatched the One hundred and twelfth New York Volunteers, Lient. Col. E. F. Carpenter commanding, and ordered him to hasten to the * Nominal list (omitted) shows 1 man killed and 6 wounded in Ninth Maine Volunteers, 2 men wounded in Thirteenth Indiana Volunteei~s, and 1 man wounded in One hundred and sixty-ninth New York Volunteers Page 109 CHAP. XLVIII.] SOUTH SIDE OF THE JAMES. 109 right and report to General Heckmaft, as I understood him to occupy the right with his brigade; or, if he failed to find him, to report to any officer whom lie might find commanding on the right. Suspect- ing from the sound of battle that the only other regiment that I had with me, Ninth Maine Volunteers, wonld soon be wanted, I ordered it to be in instant readiness. In about five minutes I was ordered to send that also to the right, and went with it myself, with my staff, hoping to make connection with the one first sent. Accordingly, under guidance of a staff officer, I conducted the Ninth Maine Volun- teers, Lient. Col. Z. H. Robinson commanding, to the right, going up the l)ike a short distance and turning to the right on a cross-road leading to the road parallel to the pike, and between it and the river. On reaching this road, I found that the enemy had crushed every- thing before them to a point near General Heckmans headquarters; that he was missing, and no organized forces of his were to be found in the vicipity. Lieutenant-Colonel Carpenter, while leading his regiment up this road toward the front, and when near General Heckmans headquarters, had been dangerously wounded, and the adjutant of his regiment, Lient. S. P. Hedges, had been captured by the enemy. Capt. William H. Chaddock, upon whom the command of the regiment had devolved, had promptly formed his regiment in line of battle across the road, and thrown out skirmishers, who effectually resisted the farther advance of the enemy. Under direc- tion of Brigadier-General Weitzel, who soon appeared upon the ground, I posted iiiy little brigade so as to cover and defend and hold this road, which was of vital importance to us. During the re- mainder of the day my brigade formed the right of the line. I threw out and maintained a strong line of skirmishers, which was hotly engaged with the advance of the enemy during most of the day, and suffered some loss, but effectually resisted the enemys advance. About 2 p. in., in conjunction with the whole line, I advanced my brigade, and my skirmishers drove the enemy over the whole ground of the battle and into the rifle-pits occupied by Heckmans brigade in the morning. All the officers and men of my command behaved with commend able coolness and bravery during the whole day with- out any exceptions that have come to my knowledge. Inclosed is a list of the casualties suffered in the affair. * I am, colonel, very respectfully, your obedient servant, - J. C. DRAKE, Colonel, Commanding Brigade. Lient. Col. NIcOLAS BOWEN, Assistant Adjutant- Gener~d, Eighteenth Army Corps. HDQRS. SECOND BRIG., THIRD Div., 10TH ARMY CORPS, May 11, 18645.40 p. in. LIEUTENANT: I have the honor to report that the whole of this brigade was industriously employed on the defenses of this position during the 9th and the night of the 9th instant. At 3 a. m. on the morning of the 10th I sent to the front to report to Colonel Voris, per order of Major-General Gillmore, two regiments, viz, the Thir- teenth Indiana Volunteers, Col. C. J. Dobbs commanding, and the * Nominal list (omitted) shows 3 enlisted men killed, 2 officers and 17 enlisted men wounded, and 1 officer and 1 enlisted man missing Page 110 110 OPERATIONS IN SE. VA. AND N. C. [C~w.. XLVIII. One hundred and sixty-ninth ~New York Volunteers, Col. John Mc- Conihe commanding. These regiments were engaged at the front on the 10th instant almost immediately after their arrival and suf- fered severely, behaving with great gallantry. The casualties were as follows: command. Killed. Wounded. Missing. 13th Indiana Volunteers 6 a 67 29 169th New York Volunteers 9 34 13 Total 15 101 42 a Present, 41; missing, 26. Fuller reports will be sent from each regiment as soon as possible. I am, very respectfully, J. C. DRAKE Colonel, Commanding Brigade. Lieut. CHARLES A. CARLETON, Acting Assistant Adjutant-General. No. 43. Report of Col. Cyrus J. Dobbs, Thirteenth Indiana Infantry, of operations JJiliay 10. HDQRS. THIRTEENTH REGIMENT INDIANA VOLS., Camp in the Field, lJfay 11, 1864. SIR: In compliance with instructions, I have the honor to report that on the morning of the 10th instant I proceeded with my com- mand to a point about 1 mile beyond the Richmond and Petersburg turnpike and took up my position, throwing forward skirmishers, resting my left on the Richmond and Petersburg Railroad, 1~ miles below Chester Station, the right connecting with the One hundred and sixty-ninth New York Volunteers, Colonel McConihe, who had been placed on the extreme right. One section of the First Con- necticut Battery and four companies of the Sixty-seventh Ohio Vol- unteers having reported to me, I placed the artillery in position, sup- ported by the detachment of the Sixty-seventh Ohio. Immediately after the disposition of this small force, comprising the ~ommand, the enemy appeared in my front with the three arms of the service. Seeing that the enemy was in force, I ordered the artillery to open fire and sent to the rear for re-enforcements. The enemy formed promptly and advanced in fine style. I threw forward all my reserve butonecompany on the advanced line. We allowed the enemy to advance within easy range, when a volley from onr entire front threw them in confusion and finally in hasty retreat. They promptly re-enforced their lines, renewed the attack, with the same result. By this time I was re-enforced by the Sixth Connecticut Volunteers Seventh New Hampshire Volunteers and four pieces of CaptaiA Rockwells battery. I ordered the Sixth Connecticut Volunteers to the right of the road, the Seventh New Hampshire Volunteers to the left, as supports to the advanced lines, and detached Maj. J. C. Burton with five companies of the Thirteenth Indiana Volunteers to the extreme right of the One hundred and sixty-ninth New Yor Page 111 CHAP. XLVIII.] SOUTH SIDE OF THE JAMES. 111 Volunteers. The enemy now reappeared from the woods beyond in largely increased force, displaying five stand of colors in our front and two on our right, advancing in splendid order. Again they were allowed to advance within easy range, when a murderous fire opened from both sides, with both musketry and artillery. This contest was final and desperate. The enemy broke. and rallied, but was finally compelled to take cover in the woods. The detachment under Major Burton, of the Thirteenth Indiana, advanced under a severe fire and charged the enemy in a hand-to-hand conflict, recap- turing two pieces of artillery, but being unsupported on the right, and flanked, were compelled to retire to another position. Captain Rockwells battery did excellent execution in this assault. The ene~iy was now evidently making preparations for a final assault. Our troops were in excellent spirits, feeling strong in their superiority over their enemy. At about noon the last advance was made by the enemy, but was soon driven back with heavy loss, and retired from view. The line on the left occupied by the Thirteenth Indiana and Sixty-seventh Ohio was maintained during the whole affair. The officers under my command without an exception behaved in such a gallant manner that it would be doing injustice to name one and not all. I regret to report that out of 400 of the Thirteenth In- diana the loss was 102. Inclosed please find a list * of casualties sustained by the Thirteenth Indiana Volunteers. I would also state that the number of prisoners taken from the enemy on the 10th in- stant by the Thirteenth Indiana Volunteers is 37. C. J. DOBBS, Colonel, Commanding. Lieutenant PIERCE, Acting Assistant Adjutant-General. No. 44. Report of Capt. William H Chaddock, One hundred and twelfth New York Infantry, of operations May 4-16. HDQRS. 112TH REGIMENT NEW YORK VOLUNTEERS, In the Field, May 17, 1864. SIR: I have the honor to report that the One hundred and twelfth Regimeilt New York Volunteers, left Gloucester Point, Va., May 4, 1864, and embarked on board the transport Thomas Powell and landed at Bermuda Hundred on the night of the 5th of May, and bivouacked for the night. Next morning, in conjunction with the troops of the Tenth Corps, marched to a point distant from the Petersburg and Richmond Railroad about 2 miles, and threw up intrenchments. On the morning of the 7th of May received orders to march, and approached the Petersburg railroad, encountering the enemy about 1 mile from camp and drove them to the railroad, where they had a battery in position, fully supported by infantry, with skirmishers thrown to the front. Here a lively engagement followed artillery and skirmishers. No casualties occurred at this front. At sunset we returned to our defense. On the 12th of May we again ap- proached the railroad, and succeeded in gaining the track without *Embodjed in revised statement, p. 14 Page 112 112 OPERATIONS IN SE. VA. AND N. C. [ChAP. XLVIII. opposition, the enemys pickets falling back. This regiment then destroyed effectually every iron rail on this road for 1 mile, burn- ing the iron until it was rendered useless. On the morning of the 15th of May we marched toward Richmond on the turnpike road to a point distant from Fort Johnson one-half mile, where onr forces were then intrenched. On the morning of the 16th of May, about 4 a. in., we were ordered to fall in and re-enforce the right of our line, which Ead sustained a heavy attack of the enemy, and were ordered to report to General Heckman. At this time we advanced through - the most dense fog I ever saw and under a severe artillery fire from Fort Johnson, and succeeded in reaching the headquarters of the general, but found no one to whom we could report. At this point Lieutenant-Colonel Carpenter, then in command, sent Lieut. Samuel P. Hedges, Company B, One hundred and twelfth New York Volun- teers, acting adjutant, to the front to see if he could find any one of the generals staff, and he was taken prisoner, but before this was known the regiment was ordered to advance and soon became engaged with the enemy. At the first fire the lieutenant-colonel was mortally wounded and went to the rear. The command then devolved upon me, and I formed the regiment in line and held the ground until I was ordered to fall back by my brigade commander. At this point Company B had 2 wounded. My regiment was then assigned to support Captain Folletts battery, and I then threw out skirmishers to the front, under command of Lieutenant Allen, Company A, One hundred and twelfth New York Volunteers, when they immediately became engaged with the skirmishers of the enemy, but held their ground most resolutely until charged upon by a strong line of skir- mishers, supported by a line of battle. They then fell back slowly (contesting the ground) about 40 rods, when they succeeded in Checking the enemy. A lively fire was kept up all the time until about 2 p. in., when we advanced a line of battle and drove the enemy into their intrenchments, and here held them until ordered to fall back, which was done in good order, and returned within our intrenched camp The following are the casualties that occurred in my comm Very respectfully, .~ and :* W. H. CHADDOCK, Brigadier-General THOMAS, Captain, Commanding Regiment. Adjutant-General U. S. Army. No. 45. Reports of Maj. Gen. William F. Smith, U. S. Army, commanding Eighteenth Army Corps, of operations May 1216. HEADQUARTERS EIGHTEENTH CORPS, June 8, 1864. Maj. Gen. B. F. BUTLER, Comdg. Dept. of Virginia and North Carolina: GENERAL: I have the honr to send to you by one of my staff officers my official report of operations before Richmond, from 12th to 16th, inclusive, May, 1864, with sub-reports, & c., complete. I also send sub-reports of operations of 6th, 7th, 9th, and 10th ultimo. * Nominal list (omitted) shows 1 officer wounded (mortally), 1 man killed, and 9 wounded Page 113 CH~. XLVIH.1 SOUTH SIDE OF THE JAMES. 113 I have not considered it necessary to make an official report upon the operations of General Heckman on the 6th and 7th, and General Brooks on the 7th ultimo, as their reports cover everything. I would only call your attention to the gallant reconnaissance of Cap- tain West, aide-de-camp on my staff, on 7th ultimo, and refer you to his report inclosed. My official report of 9th and 10th ultimo will be forwarded by mail as soon as practicable. I am, general, very respectfully, your obedient servant, WM. F. SMITH, Major- General, Commanding. HEADQUARTERS EIGHTEENTH ARMY CORPS, June 7, 1864. COLONEL: I have the honor to report that on the night of the 11th ultimo the following instructions were received: HEADQUARTERS IN THE FIELD, Aliay 11, 15649.30 p. m. General SMITH: A movement will be made to-morrow morning at daybreak of the troops in the manner following: General Smith will take all of his corps that can be spared from his line with safety, and will demonstrate against the enemy up the turnpike, ex- tending his line of advance to the left, with his right resting, at the beginning of the movement, on the river at or near Howletts house, pressing the enemy into their intrenchments, with the endeavor to turn them on the left, if not hotly opposed. General Gillinore will order one division of his corps to report to General Smith with two days rations ready to march at any time at or after daylight, at General Smiths order. General Gillmore will make such disposition with the remainder of his corps as to hold the enemy in check if any movement is made upon the rear of General Smith or upon our lines from the direction of Petersburg, holding such troops as may not be necessary to be thrown forward by him upon the turnpike in reserve, ready to re-enforce either point that may be attacked. Of course, General Smiths demonstration will cover the right of General Gillmores line of works, un- less heGenera] Smithis forced back. General Kautz has orders to proceed as soon as the demonstration of General Smiths troops has masked his movements from at or near Chester Station, to make demonstrations upon the Danville road for the purpose of cutting it. It is intended to develop by this movement the entire strength of the enemy in the direction of Richmond, and, if possible, either to force them within their intrenchments or turn them, as the case may be. If successful, it is supposed that the troops will occupy during the night the line of advance secured. General Hinks has orders to seize and hold a point on the Appo- mattox opposite General Smiths headquarters pending this movement. The commanding general fails to make further orders in detail because of personal explanation given to each corps commander of the movement intended. Respectfully, BENJ. F. BUTLER, Major-General, Commanding. In obedience to these instructions, my command moved shortly after daylight on the morning of the 12th instant, in the following order: General Weitzels division, followed by that of General Brooks, moving from the left of General Ames line of works by the Widow Howletts house to the turnpike, General Weitzels division form- ing across the turnpike, and General Brooks in reserve. General Turners division, of the Tenth Corps, temporarily assigned to my command, moved by Dr. Howletts house, on James River, down near the mouth of Red House [Redwater :~j Creek, at which l)oint his line was deployed along the road leading to the turnpike. General Weitzel 8 R RVOL XXXVI, PT I Page 114 114 OPERATIONS IN SE. VA. AND N. C. (CHAI~. XLVIII. began skirmishing shortly after leaving the line of pickets of Gen- eral Gillmore, driving the enemy in front of him until he reached the turnpike crossing of Red House Creek. Here the enemy opened a fiie from two pieces of artillery from the turnpike, but were soon driven away, and General Weitzel formed his line of battle across the turnpike road north of Red House Creek. Finding the enemy skirmishing along General Weitzels entire front, his command was thrown to the right of the turn p ike. Six regiments of General Brooks command were then de p1 oyed on the left, the remaining brigade being held as reserve on his left flank. General Turner was at the same time ordered to connect with General Weitzel, leaving a sufficient force to guard from Dr. Howletts house down into the low open country near the mouth of Red House Creek. The whole line was then pressed forward as far as the nature of the ground on the left would allow, the left brigade of General Weitzel on the right of the turnpike, and the entire line of battle of General Brooks to force its way through an almost impenetrable thicket in a marshy country, between Red House Creek and Proctors Creek. The right brigade of General Weitzels and General Turners divisions having a more open country, had succeeded in driving the enemy across Proctors Creek. Finding that my entire line did not outflank the enemys line of skirmishers, I sent word to the commanding general to that effect, asking first of General Kautz, who was then about to p ass out on his raid, to make a diversion reconnaissance on my left. IBut that being deemed impracticable, I asked for infantry to extend my line, with the suggestion that the force brought up might move so as to head Proctors Creek and try to turn the enemys works in that way. Late in the day General Gillmore with three brigades came up on my left, and the entire command was ordered to bivouac and lie on their arms in that position during the night. To further secure my position, the brigade of General Brooks, which had been held in reserve, was ordered to form a second line in rear of General Weit- zel, whose troops extended in one line, and General Turner was or- dered to throw back his right so as to maintain connection with the road from Dr. Howletts house and the right of General Weitzels line. A very heavy rain during the day had served to injure the roads, and the soldiers slept on their arms that night, drenched to the skin. A reconnaissance made by myself during the afternoon on General Weitzels right developed the fact that the enemy held the left bank of Proctors Creek with artillery, and that the slopes were steep and heavily wooded. No infantry was seen. During the night General Marstons brigade, which had formed a second line behind General Weitzel, was ordered to report to General Gillmore for the purpose of making a flank movement around the head of Proctors Creek. Early on the morning of the 13th instant General Brooks and myself made a reconnaissance on his front, finding a practicable country for infantry across Cattle Run, a branch of Proctors Creek, and beyond that a high hill which overlooked and commanded the left bank of Proctors Creek and vicinity of the turnpike. A brigade of infantry was at once thrown forward on the hill, and sharpshooters were so disposed as to cover the passage of artillery down the turnpike to the point necessary to gain this hill. Skirmishers were then thrown forward across the creek, and it was found the enemy had retired. The whole of my command was then brought across the creek an Page 115 CHAP. XLVIILJ SOUTH SIDE OF~ THE JAMES. 115 deployed across the turnpike at the Half-Way House in the follow- ing order: General Weitzel on the right of the turnpike, General Brooks on the left, while Turners division was brought up from the extreme right and thrown upon the left of General Brooks. A narrow strip of open country extended from about 300 yards on the left of the turnpike down to James River. To the left of this open country were woods, with thick undergrowth, on our front. The woods were of the same character extending nearly a mile to the right. The skirmishers were pushed forward, supported by the line of battle, until they reached some points of the outer edge of the woods just referred to. From this edge of the woods the enemys line of defenses could be seen for over a mile, having a strong profile, with a ditch on the outside. Numerous embrasures for artillery were also filled. In the front of General Weitzel our skirmishers had not been pushed to the opening, and therefore no reconnaissance on his front could be made. The approaches to the works on Gen- eral Brooks front required an advance over open ground of from 300 to 700 yards, all of which could be swept by the fire of the enemys artillery. On the turnpike the defenses were about 1,000 yards in our front, with embrasures for two guns. A reconnaissance by General Brooks and myself on his front induced me to express the opinion to the general commanding the department that if that line was held in force by the enemy, it could not be carried by assault, and that I should not attempt it unless I received orders to do so. Shortly after this news was received that General Gillmore had turned the enemys works and held their extreme right. I was then ordered to remain in my position that night. The right of General Weitzels line was thrown back on Proctors Creek, and the troops bivouacked in that position during the night. Just before dark Colonel Cole, commanding Second U. S. Colored Cavalry, with about 150 men, re- ported to me and was ordered to picket from the right of my infantry picket to the James River. At daylight on the 14th instant skirmishers were ordered forward, and the left of General Turner soon occupied the enemys works in their front. On General Weitzels front, and on the right of General Brooks, the enemfs skirmishers held their ground with the most determined pertinacity, and were only driven back some time after the left of General Brooks occupied the works on their front. As we gained the edge of the clearing in front of General Weitzel, we found the enemy still holding an interior line of work, with a bastion salient on an eminence, completely commanding our posi- tion, the flanks falling back on the enemys left to the James River and Drewrys Bluff, and on their right in a northwesterly direction, extending beyond any point that we could see. The prong or arm of the works which General Gillmore had turned ran into this second line at the bastion salient before mentioned. A heavy fire of artillery was opened on our lines from this salient, which was soon, however, checked by General Weitzels sharpshooters, who had ad- vanced under cover of stumps and huts to points from which they commanded the embrasures of the work. Shortly after my new line was established, General Gillmore moved to connect with my left. The day was spent in reconnaissances, and an assault, ordered for the next morning by the general commanding the department) was abandoned for the want of disposable troops to form the col- iimn Page 116 116 OPERATIONS DT SE. VA. AND N. C. [CHAP. XLVIII. On Sunday morning, the 15th instant, I went out on a reconnais- sance on the extreme right behind the cavalry picket. I found there a tolerably open, undulating country, exten in to the river and to the works of Drewrys Bluff, offering every facility for the move- ment of a heavy column on our right and rear. Going from there to the right of Heckmans command, and finding an important road near onr right only defended by the pickets, I sent back for more troops, and two regiments were sent to my assistance. These were ordered to report to General Heckman, and were disposed by him on the left of his line, and his own troops were extended to the right across the road, the right regiments being thrown back in echelon. In the afternoon I went with General Weitzel and General Heck- man to a farm-honse, about a hundred yards to the front and right of General Heckmans command. This farm-house was situated on a knoll opposite the flank of the bastion before described. To the northwest of the house a short distance ran a stream, which I sn~- pose to be Kingsland Creek. At this knoll a good view of the conntry on our right was obtained, and I ordered the farm-house and outbuildings to be heavily occupied by the reserves of the picket guard. On informing the commanding general of the department that the necessary extension of my line had drawn me out into one thin line of battle, and that I had no regiments with which to repair a break in my lines, and none to move to my right flank, I was in- formed that General Ames had three regiments at the Half-Way House, and that they would act as a reserve for my line. During that night, I have since learned, three assaults were made by the enemy upon the farm-house, which were repulsed by the troops sta- tioned there. No report of this was made to me that night. A short time before daylight on the morning of the 16th I found every- thing quiet on my lines. There was at that time a thin film of clouds over the sky, but not so heavy as to interfere seriously with the moonlight, and giving no indications whatever of a foggy morn- ing. I returned to my quarters and my bed, but was shortly after- ward aroused by a heavy musketry and artillery fire on the right of our line. On going out I found a fog so dense that a horseman was not visible at a distance of 15 yards. I proceeded to the turnpike, where I established my headquarters and communicated with Gen- erals Weitzel and Brooks. At this point I sent word to have the artillery withdrawn, as the fog was so dense it could not be used, and it was so far advanced that it was in danger of beimig captured. The order did not reach some guns most exposed until it was too late, as the orderly who took the order gave it to a sergeant of the guns at the caissons, and the sergeant in carrying the order to the guns was killed. Learning from General Weitzel, after some delay, that General Heckmans brigade had been badly crushed by an attack of the enemy in force on his right flank and right rear, and General Ames having previously dispatched one of his regiments to report to me, the One hundred and twelfth New York, it was ordered to hold the cross-roads in rear of General Heckmans right. This regiment met the enemy near the point where they were to take possession, and, with the aid of the Ninth Maine, succeeded in holding in check this column of the enemy, which was moving in our rear. While this was going on, the enemy made furious assaults on my front, con- sisting of the brigades of Wistar and Buruham, in the divisions of Weitzel and Brooks. The density of the fog entirely preventing m Page 117 CHAP. XLVIII.] SOUTh SIDE OF THE JAMES. 117 from seeing what was going on in the open country on my right. reconnaissances were impossible. Shortly after the One hundred and twelfth New York and the Ninth Maine were placed in position a report came to me from General Weitzel of a movement still farther on his right. As this threatened directly our communications, my artillery, which had been withdrawn, and was without supports, my ammnnition train a short distance to the rear, and our lines we had left but feebly defended, I immediately ordered a retirement of the whole line, instructing General Brooks to inform General Turner, commanding a division in the Tenth Corps, that his move- ments must conform to ours to keep up connection between the two corps. While the line was falling back the fog lifted, so that I was able to watch my right, having in the mean time rallied ronnd the Half-Way House the troops of General Heckman, which had fallen back much disorganized. I ordered the hue forward again, and put the rallied troops in to cover the right of the advancing line. A short time afterward, finding General Weitzel again retiring, and asking him the reason, I was informed by him that two of the com- manding officers of the regiments of broken troops had told him that they had orders from me personally to retire. This strange mistake on their part occurred just at the time when I learned that my con- nection with the Tenth Corps had been broken, and therefore a for- ward movement of mine would place me simply outside of the enemys works, which we held before the retirement, and which I knew, by personal examination, could not be carried by assault. I then moved my entire line to the right, so as to hold both the turn- pike and the parallel road on its right, forming line of battle in that position. About this time, hearing that General Gillmore had reached the turnpike in my rear, I made an advance in the direction of the point where Heckmans brigade had been attacked, with a view of bringing off my wounded. My advance into the woods which I had occupied early in the morning found a line of battle in my front, and the enemy on my right and left flanks. Having but a very small force in the advance, I withdrew my line, bringing off what few wounded our advance had covered, and immediately com- menced obeying the orders of the general commanding the depart- uncut to retire within the lines. This was done successfully and without loss. The capture of General Heckman has left me in much un~ertainty with reference to the point at which the enemy crossed the little creek in his front, and of their attack upon his lines. These facts can only be arrived at after his release. For details of the battle in reference to the conduct of the troops, I refer you to the reports of subordinate officers, herein inclosed. I am indebted to all the gentlemen on my staff for gallant and valuable service rendered during the engagement. I would particu- larly mention my aide, Capt. P. C. F. West, who, with a small party of 10 or 15 men, captured a rebel schooner near Howletts house, on the James, and after setting fire to her they cut her adrift. Captain West with his small party traveled several miles through swamps and marshes, till he reached the river bank off which the vessel was moored. They built a raft and boarded her, not knowing what crew she carried, set her on fire, and cut her adrift. Captain West reported a torpedo attached to the anchor chain. He has distin- guished himself in many reconnaissances and scouting parties, of which no official reports have been made. This act of boarding th Page 118 118 OPERATIONS t~ S}X VA. ANt) N. C. [On.~s. XLVIII. schooner under the circumstances, at a point in the James River far above our lines and gun-boats, I consider worthy the notice of the commanding general. I remain, colonel, very respectfully, your obedient servant, WM. F. SMITH, Major- General, Commanding Eighteenth Corps. Colonel SHAFFER, Chief of Staff to Major-General Butler. No. 46. Report of Surg. George Suckley, U. S. Army, Medical Director, of operatIons May 616. HEADQUARTERS EIGHTEENTH ARMY CORPS, Cobbs Hill, Va., May 20, 1864. COLONEL: I have the honor herein to furnish you a report of the killed and wounded of this corps that have come under my cogni- zance and general care since the corps landed at Bermuda Hundred, on the 6th day of May, 1864, to and including the casualties of the 16th instant: A few men, comparatively, may have been treated at their regi- mental camps, or sent away on transports to Fort Monroe that I have had no official knowledge of, and who are not reported here, some of whom were killed outright on the battle-fields and either left with the enemy or instantly buried, I also cannot report for want of data, and t~e killed an~ wounded who have fallen in the hands of the enemy, especially during the battle of May 16, can only be accounted for in the general reports of their division commanders as among the missing. I learn from the rebel newspapers that 24 of our wounded fell into their hands during the engagement of the 7th instant, who were sent to their hospital at Petersburg, and I person- ally know of 7 dead left in the hands of the enemy on the same day. During the various engagements a moderate number of rebel wounded were captured. They were attended to fully as well as were our own men, and everything, so far as I know, that could be dictated by humanity or the courtesy of war was done for them. Casualties in Eighteenth Army Corps. Died of wounds Total almost number of wounded. mediately after re ception. Engagements of May 6 and 7, 1864: Heckmans brigade, Second Division, 82 7 First Division. Engagements and skirmishing of 8th, 9th, 10th, 11th, and 12th of May: First 172 19 and Second Divisions. Engagements and skirmishing on 13th and 14th of May: First and Second 122 5 Divisions. Skirmisbing on the 15th of May and battle of May 16: First and Second Di- 568 6 visions. Total Add 24 left in hands of enemy, May 7, 1864 24 Add deaths at hospital since May 6, not otherwise accounted for, say Grand total a (not including those in hands of the enemy, not here 968 specified). a The 74 dead are included in the wounded, except the 7 killed outright, on the 7thof May Page 119 CHAP. XLVIII.] SOUTH SIDE 01? TIlE JAMES. 119 Since the first fight, all of the wounded cared for by me, not dead, except some 6 or 8, were comfortably sent off in transports, fitted up for the purpose, to the general hospital in the vicinity of Fort Monroe. The men not sent off were in to~o critical a condition to be moved. The wounded, as a general rule, were rapidly and properly cared for. There was a sufficiency of ice, lemons, anodynes, and chloroform, and the necessary operations appear to have been well and judiciously performed. I desire to commend highly for industry, zeal, and efficiency, Surg. C. H. Carpenter, One hundred and forty-eighth New York, and Surg. S. A. Richardson, of the Thirteenth New Hampshire Reg- iments, both on different occasions, chief surgeons of the battle-field hospitals. Their numerous assistants and the operating surgeons, as a general rule, were capable and efficient. I am, colonel, very respectfully, your obedient servant, GEORGE SUCKLEY, Medical Director, Eighteenth Army Corps. Lieut. Col. N. BOWEN, Assistant Adjutant-General, Eighteenth Army Corps. No. 47. Report of Capt. Preston C. F. West, Aide-de-Camp, of operations May 7. HEADQUARTERS, May 31, 1864. I have the honor to report that on Saturday, May 7, 1864, I was given the command of 110 infantry (veterans of the Eleventh Con- necticut), and 37 cavalry, and directed to try and cut the railroad between Port Walthall Junction and Petersburg. Several brigades of infantry, under the command of Brig. Gen. W. T. H. Brooks, were to engage the enemy at or near Port Walthall Junction. Leaving the main body of General Brooks army, after it had crossed the Bake-House, Ashton Swamp, I concealed my command not far from Port Walthall and waited two hours or more, until General Brooks forces were engaging the enemy. Learning from a negro guide that I could not well employ cavalry over the country in which I was obliged to go, I directed Captain Freeborn to form his troops on the left of General Heckmans brigade, and cover some country near which I had to pass. Moving slowly and cautiously on the left bank of the Appomattox River to the mouth of Swift Creek, I proceeded up it a short distance to the first passable point near which the right of the enemys infantry pickets were posted. Leaving a reserve of 60 men at this point, I marched with the re- mainder through woods and swamps in the direction of Swift Creek bridge. About 1 mile from it, I left 40 more of my men, and with 10 men I reached the railroad, but only to find that the enemys re- serve of over 1,000 troops was there with arms stacked and drawing rations. Five minutes thought told me it was a very risky place and I concluded to return as quickly as possible, which I did, not however, before I had secured 1 prisoner of the Nelson Battalion, of South Carolina, who was carried back. On my return to the ma~u reserve of 60 men, I found that they had been shelled during my absence from a fort on the Appomattox River, but met with no loss Page 120 120 OPERATIONS IN SE. VA. AND N. C. [CHAP. XLVIII. In conclusion, I have to say that I met with no loss, but the men suffered considerable from heat and the long march. They behaved very well. I have the honor to be, very respectfully, your obedient servant, PRESTON C. F. WEST, Gapt. and A. D. C., Staff Maj. Gen. Win. F. Smith. Lient. Col. N. BOWEN, Assistant Adjutant-General. [Indorsement.] HEADQUARTERS EIGHTEENTH CORPS, June 7, 1864. Respectfully forwarded to MajorGeneral Butler, commanding De- partment of Virginia, & c. Captain West brought back very valu- able information regarding the country over which he had passed. With only 10 men he penetrated to the midst of the enemy and brought off 1 of them prisoner. WM. F. SMITH, Major- General. No. 48. Report of Lieut. Campbell Tucker, Aide-de-Camp, of operations May 1216. HEADQUARTERS EIGHTEENTH ARMY CORPs In the Field, Va., ]Jiliay 21, 1864. COLONEL: In obedience to orders received from you, I have the honor to make the following report, containing the most important orders which I carried during the campaign, commencing the 12th instant and ending the 16th instant: May 12, about 3 a. in., I was sent to General Weitzel, whose com- mand was then about half a mile in advance of General Ames headc~uarters, with the following order: To halt his command when they came up to the cavalry, keeping his flanks well guarded. About 10 a. m. I carried a second order to General Weitzel: To send a party up the road (which crosses the turnpike at that point) to see if they could connect with General Turners command, and to keep his right informed that General Turners command would probably come down that road. His command at that time was on the right of the Petersburg and Richmond turnpike, a short distance in the rear of Proctors Creek. I then went on to General Turner with the following order: To advance down the road which General Weitzel held, and to send his artillery to the rear, as it could not be used, owing to the character of the country. I informed him that General Weitzel had sent out a party to connect with him, if possible. About 2 p. m. I took the following communication to General Weitzel from General Smith: General WEITZEL: If I can bring Brooks out of this place to throw him still farther to the left, can you hold your present line on the left of the turnpike? WM. F. SMITH Page 121 CH~. XLVIII.] SOUTH SIDE OF THE JAMES. 121 To which he replied as follows, in writing: My line will be very weak. It will be weakened more by Turners advancing. G. WEITZEL, Brigadier-General. At 6 p. m. took an order to General Marston. who was then on the left of General Weitzel and the Petersburg and Richmond turnpike: To report to General Weitzel with his command, marching by the right flank down the road which he was then in advance of. At the same time I informed General Weitzel That General Marstons brigade would report to him, and that he would post them as a reserve. May 13, when we arrived at Proctors Creek, I was sent back to General Butler with the following request: To order the battery of light 12-pounders, which were then near his headquar- ters, to report to General Smith. To which he replied as follows: Tell General Smith that I think there are only four guns near my headquarters, and that I will order them to the front immediately. Also tell him that I will order the battery of 20-pounder Parrotts forward. General Butlers headquarters then were where we had ours the night before. May 14, a short time after daylight, I carried the following order to General Weitzel To advance his line, and that General Brooks was then advancing. 5 a. m. informed General Turner That General Brooks line then occupied the rebel intrenchments, and that Gen- eral WeitzePs line was advancing, and ordered him to advance his line so that it occupied the rebel works and connected with General Brooks. 12 m. I sent the following communication, signed by General Smith, to General Butler: HEADQUARTERS EIGHTEENTH ARMY Conps, May 1412 m. Major-General BUTLER: I have no use for light 12-pounders. I know where my own batteries are, and nave very respectfully to say that I can order them up as they are needed. I had supposed that some of General Gillmores batteries, not to be otherwise employed, might be used to advantage here, and therefore sent the request to have the rifled batteries ordered here. WM. F. SMITH, Major-General of Volunteers. In answer to the following communication, which had just then been received from General Butler: HDQRS. DEPARTMENT OF VIRGINIA AND NORTH CAROLINA, Half-Way House, May 14, 1864. General SMITH: I have ordered Onderdonk out on a reconnaissance to see what the trains mean. I think they mean ammunition and supplies. Certain it is that 1,000 men can march 5 miles sooner than they can be loaded and unloaded on a railroad train and carried 5 miles. I have ordered all the rifled guns up. I hope you will get them into position so that they can be used. I would not make an assault until I had used all my artillery. I have also ordered Beechers battery of light 12-pounders to report to you. BENJ. F. BUTLER, Major-General, Commanding Page 122 122 OPERATIONS TN SE. VA. AND N. C. [CHAP. XLVIII. May 15, about 5 p. in., I took an order to the Twenty-first Con- necticut Volunteers to report to General Weitzel. May 16, about 4.20 a. in., I took an order to General Ames To send the portion of his division then at the Half-Way House to the front. A short time afterward I took a request to General Butler To order a regiment (of General Ames division), then near his headquarters, to report to General Smith. To which he replied: Tell General Smith that Twill order the regiment to report to him, and that I will order a regiment up from our intrenchments, and tell him to do the same. I next carried a request to General Butler To order the troop of cavalry which he had temporarily detached from the squad- ron at our headquarters to drive up the stragglers. General Butler then ordered the troop of cavalry to report to me and I gave them the necessary orders. About 7.30 a. in., when Gen- eral Heckinans brigade was reforming at the Half-Way House, I was ordered to form the Ninth New Jersey Volunteers on the left of the Ninety-eighth New York Volunteers, which I did, the Ninety- eighth New York Volunteers having advanced to the edge of the woods before the line was formed. About 7.45 a. in. I carried an order to General Brooks to retire slowly, and informed him that General Weitzel was advancing his line until it connected with his, when he would commence retiring again to take up a stronger posi- tion. General Brooks then requested me to inform General Smith that his right was some distance to the left of the turnpike, but that lie would try to make the connection. After General Brooks had formed his line near the Half-Way House I took an order to General Weitzel To form his line so that he held possession of the r.oad (on the right of the Peters- burg and Richmond turnpike) which led to our old camp. About 5.30 p. in. i was sent by General Smith to see that the troops of the Eighteenth Army Corps came in on the proper road; after which I returned to camp with the rear guard. I was sent to the rear several times during the day to bring up ammunition, and car- ried a number of orders of minor importance during the campaign. The different orders may not be word for word as they were given, but in substance they are the same. I have tried to give the time at which the orders were taken, but owing to the want of a proper order book some of them are not exact. Very respectfully, CAMPBELL TUCKER, First Lieutenant and Aide-de-Ciamp. Lieut. Col. N. BOWEN, A. A. G. No. 49. Report of James A. Scrymser, Volunteer Aide-de-Camp, of oper ations May 1216. HDQRS. EIGHTEENTH ARMY CORPS, May 23, 1864. COLONEL: I have the honor to submit this my report of the more important orders I delivered, by direction of Maj. Gen. William F. Smith, during the campaign of May 12 to 16, inclusive: May 12, 9 a. m.To direct General Turner to advance with can Page 123 CHAP. XLVIII.] 123 SOUTH SIDE OF THE JAMES. tion, move forward his left, and retire his right, and make every effort t~ connect his left with the right of General Weitzels division. The flankers of General Weitzel would also look for his (General Turners) line. General Turners division was at this time deployed on the open about 300 yards northwest of Dr. Howletts house. May 12, 10.30 a. m.To direct General Turner to retire his right. At about this time the connection was made with Weitzels division. May 13, about lOa. m.To order Battery D, Fourth Artillery, and Battery L, Fourth Artillery, to report at once to Major-General Smith, near the Half-Way House. I found this artillery parked on the road near General Ames former headquarters. May 13, 11.30 a. m.To direct General Brooks to have the right of his line connect with General Weitzel. The same to General WeitzeL in regard to his left, and General Brooks right. May 13, 6p. m.To order General Brooks to push the enemy on his front. The same to General Weitzel, and to keep up the con- nection. May 14, 4.30 a. m.To direct General Brooks to push the enemy, and occupy their first line, if not held in force. May 14, 5.15 a. m.To order General Turner to advance his line and move on the left of General Brooks, and advance his line of skirmishers well to the front. May 14, 5.30 a. m.J found a brigade of Turners division in camp in the woods, on the line of May 13, without a brigade com- mander. This I ordered out on the open in front, and reported this to Major-General Smith, who directed me to report the same to Gen- eral furner, and have it moved to the front at once, which was done, after some delay. May 14, 11.30 a. m.Reportedto Major-General Butler that Major- General Smith desired such rifled guns as could be spared to report to him, the same to be parked in the field, in rear of Dr. Friends house. One rifled battery, also a light 12-pounder battery; these were parked as directed. May 16, 4.45 a. m.Reported to Major-General Butler that the enemy had made a heavy attack on our right, and that Major-Gen- eral Smith, desired re-enforcements, as our line was long, thin, and weak. May 16, 5.30 a. m.Was directed to report the condition of Gen- eral Brooks line, at the same time to order all artillery not in posi- tion back to the Half-Way House. All trains to move rapidly to the rear and beyond the Half-Wa y House. May 16, 9.30 a. m.To direct General Brooks to have his right move by the flank, and follow General Weitzels left, when his (Weit~els) division moved to the right. May 16, about 2.15 p. m.I delivered a written order to General Brooks in regard to an advance of his whole line. May 16, 3.15 p. m.Ordered General Brooks to retire to his last line, in the same order that he advanced; to move when General Weitzel moved. May 16, 4p. rn.Delivered a written order regarding the with- drawing of his command and the disposition of his skirmishers. May 16, 4.45 p. m.Iwas ordered to proceed in advance of the in- fantry, then en route for camp, and order all i~rains and artillery back to camp, and to keep the road clear Page 124 124 OPERATIONS IN SE. VA. AM~ N. C. [CHAP. XLVHL It is, perhaps, well to stafe that the time of delivery of the orders herein given may not be exact, but can vary but little from 1~e cor- rect time. I am, colonel, very yespectfully, your obedient Servant, JAS. A. SCRYMSEIR, Volunteer Aide-de-Camp. Lieutenant-Colonel BOWEN, Assistant Adjutant-General. No. 50. Reports of Brig. Gen. William T. II. Brooks, U. S. Army, command ing First Division, of operations May 716. HDQRS. FIRST DIVISION, EIGHTEENTH ARMY CORPS, ]Iiliay 21, 1864. SIR: In obedience to orders from corps headquarters, I proceeded on the 7th instant with four brigades, viz, Burnhams, of this divis- ion, Bartons, Drakes, and Plaisteds, of the Tenth Corps, Hunts battery, and Colonel Qnderdonks cavalry, to cut the Petersburg and Richmond Railroad. I took the [Bermuda] Hundred road to Port Walthall Junction and had not proceeded far before coming upon a small force of the enemy at the opposite end of a causeway leading through a marsh. The Eighth Connecticut Volunteers were thrown out as skirmishers and were supported by the balance of Buruham s brigade. The ground was most difficult to operate in, dense under- growth and fallen timber in every direction. While Burnham s skirmishers were feeling the enemy in front the cavalry was sent out to the right to try and get to the turnpike. Report was soon brought in that the turnpike was close at hand. Plaisteds brigade was thrown to the right, and proceeding down a ravine under perfect cover, soon crossed the pike and reached the railroad, which it began to cut. Bartons brigade proceeded to the railroad to the left of Plaisteds, but not without a severe contest with a large force of the enemy that had discovered and opposed the movenient. Drakes brigade was deployed to the left of Buruhams. The enemy soon disappeared from their front, and these two brigades were main- tamed in position to cover the movements of the other two. The brigades on the railroad were directed to withdraw when it was found they were all engaged in fighting and had no force left to de- stroy the road. By a misunderstanding of the orders, Plaisteds brigade was withdrawn before Bartons and before the tim~ con- templated in the order sent him, hence there was not as much of the road destroyed as ought to have been by this brigade. I regret to have to report a heavy loss in Bartons brigade, but it is believed nearly all, if not quite all, of his wounded were brought off the field. The casualties in the Eighth Connecticut were numerous. This regi- ment was exposed to a heavy fire from the enemy, which it returned promptly, harassing his flank while attacking Barton. A section of Hunts battery, under direction of Colonel Drake and supported by his brigade, was used very successfully against a b~ttery of the cue- my. From 300 to 500 yards of the road were destroyed, together with the telegraph line on the railroad and two telegraph lines o Page 125 CHAP. XLVIII.] SOUTH SIDE OF THE JAMES. 125 the turnpike. A large steam saw-mill with a large amount of lum- ber, which a negro reports as belonging to the Confederate author- ities, was also destroyed. Very respectfully, W. T. H. BROOKS, Brigadier-General. P. 5.Since finishing the above report, the inclosed report of Col- onel Plaisted was handed me. * No order was sent by me to Colonel Plaisted to retire immediately; that he was in danger of being flanked. On the contrary, I learn from the staff officer by whom the order spoken of in the body of my report was sent that he met Col- onel Plaisted at the burnt saw-mill, bringing back his brigade. He therefore withdrew it without orders, leaving Bartons brigade with- out support. The saw-mill referred to by different reports was burnt under the direction of Colonel Dutton, Twenty-first Connecticut. I can well indorse what Colonel Plaisted says of Colonel Dandy, com- manding One hundredth New York Vounteers, in every respect. Annexed is a tabular statement of casualties during the days oper- ations. Very respectfully, W. T. H. BROOKS, Brigadier- General. ASSISTANT ADJUTANT-GENERAL, 18TH ARMY CORPS. Statement of casualties in Second Brigade, Second Division, and Second Brigade, Third Division, Tenth Army Corps, and Second Brigade, First Division, Eight- eenth Army Corps, under command of Brig. Gen. W. T. H. Brooks, command- ing First Division, Eighteenth Army Corps, May 7, 1564. Killed. Wounded. Missing. Total. Brigades. ~ ~. g ~ ~ 0 ~ 5econd Brigade, First Division, Eighteenth 5 4 64 10 4 79 83 Army corps, Brig. Cell. H. Bnrnhani coin- manding. 5econd Brigade, 5econd Division, Tenth 14 152 30 196 196 Army corps, W. B. Barton, colonel 48th New York Volunteers, commanding. Second Brigade, Third Division, Tenth Army ... 1 9 10 corp~, J. c. Drake, colonel 9th Maine Volunteers, commanding. Total 20 4 225 40 4 285 289 10 HDQRS. FIRST DIVISION, 18TH ARMY CORPS, .Miay, 1864. HDQRS. FIRST DIVISION, EIGHTEENTH ARMY CORPS, May 22, 1864. SIR: My attention has been called to a dispatch of the Secretary of War, dated May 17, 9 p. in., published in the New York papers, in which it is said: Theenemyundercoverofathickfogmadean *$ee p.73 Page 126 126 OPERATIONS IN SE. VA. AND N. C. (CHAP. XLVIII. attack upon Smiths line and forced it back in some confusion and with considerable loss. I beg leave to respectfully say that so far as this division is concernedthere being present, however, only one and one-half brigades, Burnhams and part of Sandersit was not forced back, in confnsion or otherwise, one inch. Sanders two regi- ments were brought from my left to strengthen my right, resting on the turnpike, while Burnliam held one side of the enemys intrench- ments until orders were given to withdraw. In this position he re- sisted several vigorous charges of the enemy and captured some hundred of them, caught and tripped by telegraph wire stretched in our front. The withdrawing of the Eighth Connecticut by Lieutentant-Colonel Smith from my right, on the plea of being turned, was unjustifiable and is no exception to the statement above made. Very respectfully, W. T. H. BROOKS, Brigadier-General. ASSISTANT ADJUTANT-GENERAL, 18TH ARMY CORPS. HDQRS. FIRST DIVISION, EIGHTEENTH ARMY CORPS, Allay 25, 1864. SIR: On the 9th instant I proceeded with two brigades of this divisionMarstons and Burnhamsto cover the movement of Gen- eral Weitzels division, which was to strike the railroad at the point struck by my command on the 7th instant. There being no enemy to oppose the movement, as soon as General Weitzel crossed the railroad my command advanced to it, and then marched along it in the direction of Petersburg. About a mile be- yond Walthall Junction a country road crosses the railroad, running obliquely toward the turnpike. Marstons brigade took this road and proceeded to form a connection with General Weitzels division on the turnpike. Burnhams brigade continued to follow the rail- road, and as soon as the country would admit was deployed to the left, with its right resting on the road. The country between the railroad and turnpike was almost impassable by reason of the dense undergrowth. General Marston was ordered by me to connect his left with Burnhams right on the railroad. Without my knowing, he had been ordered by General Smith to maintain a connection with General Weitzel on the right. In moving over to the left, one of his regiments, Ninety-eighth New York, Colonel Wead, became engaged for a few moments with the enemy that had crossed the p ike and drove him back. The order of General Smith was afterward carried out, and General Marstons right connected with General Weitzel. One regiment of Burnhams brigade was thrown to the right of the railroad, connecting with the First Brigade. These positions were maintained throughout the night, and while we were in front of Swift Creek. During the night the enemy appeared three times in some force in front of General Burnhams pickets, driving them back until the Tenth New Hampshire, Lieutenant-Colonel Coughlin, moved forward to their support and soon dispersed the enemy. An ineffectual effort was made by Lieutenant Hunt to destroy with his battery the railroad bridge across Swift Creek Page 127 CHAP. xLvm.] SOUTH SIDE OF THE JAMES. 127 The casualties of this expedition were few, as the command was only opposed by a skirmish line of the enemy and the fire of sharp- shooters. The Third Brigade, of this division, was put under the orders of General Martindale, and operated almost independently on our extreme left. No report has been received from the brigade of its operations. I respectfully inclose Brigadier-General Marstons report * of the operations of his brigade, Brigadier-General Burnhams f was for- warded with a former report. Very respectfully, W. T. H. BROOKS, Brigadier-General. ASSISTANT ADJUTANT-GENERAL, 18TH ARMY CORPS. HDQRS. FIRST DIVISION, EIGHTEENTH ARMY CORPS, Miay 25, 1864. SIR: On the 12th instant this division left camp, following General Weitzels until he became engaged with the enemy on the turnpike, when II took position on Weitzels left, my right resting on the turn- pike. In this position an advance was made in which a line of the enemys skirmishers was driven before us. As I was ordered to maintain a connection with the troops on my right this advance was not over half a mile when the troops went into bP~ouac. From this point General Marston was detached with his brigade and ordered to join General Gillmores corps. Nothing was seen nor heard of the brigade by me during the rest of the operations. I understand that General Marston took three regiments with him and that the Ninety-eighth New York, Colonel Wead, was under General Weit- zels orders. This left me with only a brigade and a half, two regi- ments of Colonel Sanders brigade having been left as a camp guard. On the morning of the 13th, by a slight reconnaissance, it was discovered the enemy had withdrawn from his position near the Half- Way House and retired to his intrenchments, running from the turn- pike to our left in front of a belt of lumber, supposed to border on Kingsland Creek, leaving a heavy picket in front of his line, and oc- cupying with sharpshooters the brick house known as Friends. Our picket-line was pushed up to close proximity and in a position to have quite a number of casualties. On the morning of the 14th the enemy evacuated this line of intrenchments. We took possession of the works, cutting down the exterior slope in such a way as to have a slight banquette on which a thin line could stand, protected by the original parapet. This position was maintained during the nights of the 14th and 15th by Buruhams brig~de, while Sanders was ad- vanced to the edge of the woods beyond the intrenchments, and took position to Burnhams left, where he remained until the morn- ing of the 16th. The picket-line in our front was almost constantly engaged in skirmishing with the enemy. On the 14th Hunts and Easterlys batteries were put in position in rear of Buruhams line, and directed to open on the enemys large high work to our front * Not found. tSeep. 132 Page 128 128 OPERATIONS IN SE. VA. AND N. C. [Cii~. XLVIII. and right, which was done, but without any particular effect. On the morning of the 16th, after the attack on our right, the enemy made his appearance in front of General Buruhams line, and made several vigorous attacks, which were handsomely repulsed by the One hundred and eighteenth New York and the Tenth and Thir- teenth New Hampshire. I regret to have to report that the command- ing officer oh the Eighth Connecticut, occupying the extreme right, withdrew that regiment from a position that was susceptible of being turned, but before it was sufficiently endangered. It might have caused trouble to the rest of the line. On the whole, the conduct of this brigade was very exemplary. They held their ground until ordered to retire, and this was only given after the withdrawal of the division on my right. Sanders two regiments were moved and placed in a second and third line, resting with their right on the turnpike. I submit with this Brigadier-General Buruhams report* of the operations of his brigade, and respectfully call attention to its de- tails. I submit also Colonel Sanders report. * It is my disagreeable duty to report a very disgraceful perform- ance of the Nineteenth Wisconsin, that can only be traced to a general and entire want of proper disciplinea performance that would have been shameful on the part of the rawest militia. While lying in the edge of the wood just in front of the Half-Way House, an order was sent to throw back the right of the first company or division, so as to meet, if necessary, any force likely to turn the right. From the unskillfulness of the officer in command, Lieutenant- Colonel Strong, the whole regiment rose to its feet and began to fall to the rear. When ordered to resume their position, the regiment moved for- ward at a double-quick and with cheers, as though this was the only way to get them to advance. On reaching the woods, they completed the performance by deliverin4 a volley from nearly all the regiment, firing into the One hundred and eighty-eighth Penn- sylvania Volunteers that was in their front, killing and wounding quite a number of them. I also inclose Major Scheucks report* of the artillery brigade during all the time we have been on this peninsula. I beg leave to call attention to Brigadier-General Buruhams com- mendation of officers, which I concur in, as being judicious and well deserved. Commendations are also due the officers of my staff for faithful performance of duty. They are: Capt. Theodore Read, assistant adjutant-general; Capt. William R. Howe, assistant adju- tant-general and acting assistant inspector-general; Lieutenants Parsons and Wheeler, Fourth Vermont Volunteers, aides-de-camp; Lient. William J. Ladd, Thirteenth New Hampshire Volunteers, commissary of musters. On the receipt of special reports in regard to the conduct of in- dividuals, I shall make on~e in regard to conduct of those that came under my observation. Very respectfully, W. T. H. BROOKS, Brigadier- General. ASSISTANT ADJUTANT-GENERAL, 18TH ARMY CORPS. * See pp. t32, 141, 146 Page 129 CILAP. XLVIII.] SOUTh SIDE OF TilE JAMES. 129 No. 51. Reports of Got. Frederick F. Wead, Ninety-eighth New York In- fantry, commanding First Brigade, of operations May 1216. HDQRS. NINETY-EIGHTH NEW YORK VOLUNTEERS, Near Port Waithall, Va., May 19, 1864. SIR: In compliance with the direction of the brigadier-general commanding the Second Division, Eighteenth Corps, I have the honor to snbmit the following report of the operations of my reg- iment while under his command, as well as those of the Ninth New Jersey, Eighth Maine, and Twenty-first Connecticut, tempora- rily under my command on the 16th instant On the 10th my regiment (the fourth of the First Brigade, First Division) was directed to report to General Wistar, by whose order it was placed in position near Proctors Creek, on a road leading to the right from the Richmond turnpike, which position it occupied until the next day, when I was directed to report to General Heck- Inan, with whose brigade it crossed Kingsland Creek, and, being ordered again to General Wistar, was employed until the evening of the 14th in supporting the batteries in position near the Half- Way Honse, when it was again ordered to General Heckman, by whom it was posted on the right of his brigade, in a slight ravine about 1,000 yards from the main redoubt of the enemy on the right of the Richmond turnpike. This position it occupied, amid occa- sional shelling and continual outpost-firing, until the evening of the 15th, when it was moved on the same line 200 yards to the left. Heckmans brigade moved at the same time to the right, and the place vacated occupied by the Eighth Maine and the Twenty-first Connecticut, making the disposition of regiments from right to left. First, Heckmans brigade; second, Ninety-eighth New York Volun- teers; third, Eighth Maine; fourth, Twenty-first Connecticut Vol- unteers. The line thus formed was concave in contour, its right salient toward the enemy. Along all of it (except the position in front of General Heckmans two right regiments) a rude breast-work of logs was hastily thrown up. The outposts were deployed from 20 to 100 yards in front. At dark on the night of the 15th the out- post-firing, which had during the previous twenty-four hours been continual, ceased entirely; but, at the direction of General Heck- man, the utmost vigilance was maintained during the night, only a portion of the troops being allowed to sleep. On the morning of the 16th, at daybreak, heavy picket-firing began along the whole line, accompanied by a vigorous shQll and case fire from both re- doubts. The outposts held their position until dislodged by the enemy in force, who, advancing in the fog and darkness, assaulted the line in front, but was promptly met and repulsed by a well- directed fire. Under cover of this demonstration, the enemy hurled furiously against the right of Heckmans brigade a heavy colunmn, which the outposts report to have crossed during the night from the fort on the north side of the James. The right regiments engaged in front were unable to resist its onset, and the enemy i~ssed without effort or resistance until in rear of and opposite to the fourth regi- ment (the Twenty-fifth Massachusetts), which, facing by the rear rank, charged him in flank, checking his advance, but disorganizing 9 R RYOb XXXVI, PT I Page 130 130 OPERATIONS IN SE. VA. AND N. C. [CHAP. XLVIII the regiments. Taking advantage of the momentary check thus oc- casioned, I changed the front of my regiment to rear upon its left company, and received the leading regiment (the Twenty-third Vir- ginia) with an unexpected fire, which threw him into confusion. Ho therefore marched by his right if ank, with the evident purpose of turning my left, but was then again repulsed by the Eighth Maine, which occupied the breast-works at right angles to my line. At the same time my right wing was attacked by a rebel regiment (said to be the Fourteenth Georgia), which it handsomely repulsed. After maintaining this position some time, and exposed to a se- vere fire from front, flank, anJ rear, and finding that the regi- ment on my left (the Eighth Maine) had withdrawn, by order of Major-General Smith, I marched by the right flank through the woods to the road running at right angles from the turnpike to the river, whence it was con(iucted by a staff officer to the hill at the Half-Way House. and again advanced, by order of General Weit- zel, to the road above inelltione(l, on which were afterward found the Ninth New Jersey, the Eighth Maine, and Twenty-first Con- necticut. Here, being the senior officer present, I was placed in command of the line, and, under directions of General Weitzel, advanced the same into the woods, where we found a line of battle, which we en- gaged, and, after a sharp engagement. repulsed in disorder. Shortly after the line was withdrawn by order of General Weitzel. The Eighth Maine, Twenty-first Connecticut, and Ninety-eighth New York Volunteers were posted on the crest of the hill. on either side of the road nearest the river, where they remained until the with- drawal of the column, to which, with a light battery and the Second U. S. Colored Cavalry, they acted as rear guard. All the regiments last mentioned behaved with much bravery. The Ninth New Jersey sustained its well-established reputation, but, reduced by sickness and losses in the previous engagements, was overpowered by the superior numbers of the enemy. The Eighth Maine throughout exhibited much steadiness and tenacity. The Twenty-first Connecticut, while under my observation, fought gallantly. My own regiment obeyed its orders. I have not received the list of casualties of the Ninth New Jersey and Twenty-first Connecticut, but those of the Eighth Maine and Ninety-eighth New York prove them not neglectful of their duty. The Eighth Maine lost in killed, wounded, and missing, 4 officers and 84 men; the Ninety-eighth New York Volunteers, in killed, wounded, and missing, 4 officers and 99 men. After I was in command of the brigade Capt. William Kreut- zer, my senior officer, commanded my regiment and managed it with much bravery and ability. He was of much service during the first engagement. Inclosed you will find the report* of Major McArthur, command- ing the Eigh~th Maine Volunteers. I am, very respectfully, your obedient servant, F. F. WEAD, Colonel Ninety-eighth New York Volunteers. Lient. E. E. GRAVES, Aide-de-Camp. *Not found Page 131 (~HAP. XLVIII.] SOUTH SIDE OF THE JAMES. 181 HDQRS. NINETY-EIGHTH REGT. NEW YORK VOLS.. Near Port WaUhall, Va., May 22, 1864. SIR: In compliance with your directions, I have the honor to make the following report of operations of my regiment from the 12th to 16th instant On the 12th instant, on reaching the Richmond turnpike, my regiment was detached from the brigade of General Marston and attached to the brigade of Brigadier-General Wistar, under whose directions it was employed until the evening of the 14th instant, supporting batteries in various positions near the Half-Way House, during the last day furnishing three companies as outposts in front of the enemys works on the right of the turnpike near Drewrys Bluff. On the 14th it was placed under command of Brigadier- General Heckman, and after various changes posted in the front line of the army on the left of Heckinans brigade, and about 1,000 yards from the enemys main redoubt, on its left; first, the Eighth Maine, and second, the Twenty-first Connecticut Volunteers, both temporarily under the command of General Heckman, the space between the left of the Twenty-first Connecticut and the turnpike being occupied by the brigade of General Wistar. The positions of my right and the rest of the line are indicated in the accompanying diagram. * The troops were in single line of battalions, deployed and without support nearer than the field near the Half-Way House, three-fourths of a mile distant. The line was concave in form, the right salient to the enemy, and reaching to within one-half mile of the James. The troops were posted in a slight ravine or depression of ground, the reverse slope of which partially protected them from the fire from the forts. The woods extended from 4 to 10 rods in front of the line and along the edge (the outposts were placed be- tween them and the enemy), and was a smooth, open plateau, across which outpost firing was continually maintained. In front of each regiment a rnde breast-work of logs was hastily thrown up. On the evening of the 15th, at sundown, the outpost-firing ceased en- tirely and a dense fog settled down, making the darkness almost impenetrable. About 3 oclock the next morning, 16th, the outposts were attacked by the enemy in force along the whole line, and soon driven in. At the same time a heavy shell and case fire was opened from both the enemys redoubts. My regiment, reserving its fire until the enemy became distinctly visible through the fog, at a dis- tance of not over 4 rods, received them with a file fire, which soon drove them back. Meanwhile, under cover of this front attack, the enemy marched a heavy column through the open space between General Heckmans right flank and the river, and furiously attacked his right rear. Before this onset the right regiment gave way in confusion, and the column passed rapidly down the line, crushing everything before it. Hearing the shouts of the advancing eneniy, and learning from stragglers their source, I sent Captain Kreutzer, my senior officer, to Colonel Pickett, commanding Twenty-fifth Massachusetts Regiment on my right, and the fonrth of Heckmans brigade, informing him that I proposed to swing back the right of my regiment so as to form a line at right angles to the breast-works, and desiring him to form on my right. This he refused to do, stating he would face by the rear rank and charge the enemny when he came opposite him, which maneuver he shortly afterward put in * Not found Page 132 132 OPERATIONS IN SE. VA. AND N. C. ~CHAP. XLVIII. execution, causing the complete disorganization of his reginient. On the return of Captain Kreutzer, I ordered the change from front to rear upon my left company, which maneuver, executed iii perfect order, nothwithstanding the fire from the fort aiid front, was no sooner completed than the leading regiment of the attacking column (the Twenty-third Virginia) came in sight and demanded my sur- render, to which we replied with a fire, which, delivered while he was in the act of deployment, threw him into confusion and stopped his advance. Shortly afterward another regiment, said to be the Fourteenth Georgia, came into line opposite to and overlapping our right wing, and opened a galling fire on the right companies. Dressing back the right wing slightly, so as to meet their new attack, we engaged both these regiments until they withdrew, when, finding the regiments on my left, the Eighth Maine and Twenty- first Connecticut, gone, withdrawn by order of Major-General Smith, we marched by the right flank, guided by the sound of the retreat- ing batteries, to the field in front of the Half-Way House. Here the remainder of the bfigade was reformed and placed by General Weitzel under my commaud as senior officer present. Under his directions, I advanced the brigade about 9ne-third of a mile into the woo(ls, and engaged the enemy until the troops of General Brooks had debouched upon the turnpike, the regiment being under the command of Capt. William Kreutzer, when it was withdrawn by direction of General Weitzel and placed in line upon the crest of the hill to the right of the Half-Way House, which position they occu- pied until the withdrawal of the army, to the right column of which it acted as rear guard. The losses of my regiment during the two battles and the out- post skirmishing during operations are as follows One officer killed, 3 officers wounded; 14 men killed, 62 men wounded, and 23 men missing; aggregate loss, 103. Although such commendation might more properly come from some other source, yet I cannot refrain from expressing my entire satisfaction with the condnct of officers and men, and my admira- tion of the coolness and bravery which enabled them while under fire to obey these orders with precision of parade. Of my whole regiment but one man manifested symptoms of cowardice, and but two improperly left the ranks. I am, sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant, F. F. WEAD, Capt. C. H. LAWRENCE, Coloy~el, Commanding Regiment. A. A. U., 3d Brig., 1st Div., 18th ~iJorps. No. 52. Report of Brig. Gen. Hiram Burnham, U. S. Army, commanding Second Brigade, of operations May 716. HDQRS. SECOND BRIG., FIRST Div., 18TH ARMY CORPS, In the Field, Va., May 22, 1864. CAPTAIN: I have the honor to submit the following report of the operations of my command during the recent engagements with the enemy: In the movements of the 7th instant, to cut the Richmond and Petersburg Railroad, this brigade took the advance, with the e Page 133 CHAP. XLVIII.) SOUTH SIDE OF THE JAMES. 133 ception of a small force of cavalry. The command left ramp at daybreak, and after proceeding abont 4 miles in the direction of the railroad, encountered the enemy, strongly posted on rising ground, with a swamp and tangled growth of underbrush in their front. Here the cavalry was withdrawn, the Eighth Connecticut Volun- teers thrown forward as skirmishers, and my other three regiments deployed in line on the right of the road. The enemy were at once engaged, and finally, after a skirmish of some duration, were pressed back upon the railroad by the skirmishers of the Eighth Connecti- cut, my whole line of battle moving up in support. Colonel Drake at this time moved his brigade into position on my left, and my command was moved farther to the right, the Eighth Connecticut being thrown forward in line of battle under a hot fire from the enemys artillery, until they became warmly engaged with the en- emys line, which was posted behind the embankment of the rail- road. The Thirteenth New Hampshire Volunteers, Colonel Stevens, was thrown forward to support this regiment, the remaining two regiments being held in reserve. A ravine prevented the Eighth Connecticut from reaching the railroad, but CMonel Ward attacked the enemy with a well-sustained fire of musketry, and kept them warmly engaged for a considerable time, while the forces on our right reached and destroyed the railroad track. This object having been accomplished, the Eighth Connecticut was withdrawn without molestation from the enemy, upon whom it must have inflicted a severe loss, and with my brigade I covered the withdrawal of our forces from the railroad, holding an advanced position with the Tenth and Thirteenth New Hampshire Regiments until 6 p. in., when my whole force was withdrawn and returned to camp. The fighting of this day fell mostly upon the Eighth Connecticut, which sustained considerable loss, but behaved handsomely, driving the enemy in spirited manner wherever it met them. My thanks are especially due to Col. J. E. Ward, commanding that regiment, both for his coolness and gallantry and the able man- ner in which he handled his regiment. I regret to say that he was wounded in the engagement, his injuries being sufficiently serious to deprive me of his services for the present. On the morning of the 9th instant my brigade again left camp, and with the other troops of the division moved out in the direction of Petersburg, passing over the same road which was taken on the 7th instant. The Petersburg and Richmond Railroad was reached without oppo- sition from the enemy. In obedience to orders from General Brooks, I moved my command along the railroad in the (lirection of Peters- burg, and encountered the enemy this side of Swift Creek. I at once drew my command up in line of battle on the left of the railroad, and with my skirmishers attacked the enemy and drove them across the creek. Subsequently I advanced my line nearly up to the Ship- pen house and sent forward one regiment, the Tenth New Hamp- shire, Lieut. Col. J. Coughlin, to support Hunts battery, which moved into position between that house and the railroad, and shelled the en eniys bridges across the creek. My brigade now connected with General Marstons on my right, while my skirmishers extended well around toward General Martindales command on the left. Being considerably annoyed by the enemys sharpshooters on the opposite si(le of the creek to the left of the Shippen hQnse, I strength- ened my skirmish line with the two flank companies of the Eighth Connecticut Volunteers, armed with Sharps rifles, and ordered the Page 134 I 34~ OPERATIONS IN ~. VA. ANP N. C. [CHAP. XLVIII. to drive the enemy out or silence their fire, which they soon did. Just at night I modified my line, by order of General Brooks, by placing the Eighth Connecticut, Lieutenant-Colonel Smith, on the right of the road, to fill a space between General Marstons brigade and my own. At about 11 oclock at night the enemy in some force charged upon my pickets in front of the Shippen house, forcing them back some distance, when Lieutenant-Colonel Coughlin at the head of his regiment charged in turn upon the enemy, drove them back in confusion, and re-established the picket-line in its original position. At a later hour the enemy again attacked and drove in my skirmishers, when he was again met by Lieutenant-Colonel Coughlin and driven back, after a spirited skirmish. On the 10th a portioii of my command was engaged in destroying the railroad track, my lines remaining unchanged until about 3 p. in., when, in obedience to orders from General Brooks, I withdrew my command as soon as General Marston had retired on my right and returned to camp. The enemy seeing the movement, threw a few shells at my skirmishers as they retired, but did no injury and made no attempt to follow us. On the i2th instant, in pursuance of orders, my com- mand moved out from camp at 7 a. m. in the direction of the Rich- mond turnpike, and on reaching this pike moved up it in the direc- tion of Drewrys Bluff. (i)n encountering the enemy near Dr. Cheathams house, my brigade was drawn up in line on the left of the turnpike with General Weitzels on my right and the Third Brigade, Colonel Sanders, on my left. My skirmishers engaged the enemy, and the necessary dispositions having been made, they were ordered to advance, and the enemy were steadily pushed back for quite a distance, my line of battle moving up in support of the skir- mishers. While the advance was being made the Tenth New Hampshire was much annoyed by a hot fire from a consideral~le body of the enemy stationed on the right of the road in the vicinity of some old barracks. Lieutenant-Colonel Coughlin promptly crossed the pike, charged the position with his regiment, drove the enemy from it, and captured some 20 prisoners. The advance was continued until the enemy was driven behind Proctors Creek, the loss in my command being quite small. On the 13th skirmishing was resumed, the enemy being pressed steadily back, until in the afternoon my skirmishers had passed the Half-Way House, and arrived in front of the enemys intrenchments. During the latter part of the afternoon the skirmishing was quite lively at times, the enemy making an unsuccessful attempt to dislodge my skirmishers from the woods in rear of Friends house. In the evening, it being supposed th~t the enemy was evacuating his works in my front, by order, of ~enera1 Brooks, I directed the skirmishers to advance cautiously and feel of the enemy, and it was ascertained that a considerable force was still in front of me. On the morning of the 14th I advanced my brigade and occupied the works of the enemy in my front, which were found to have been evacuated duriiig the night. The enemy had retired to some power- ful earth-works on the right of the pike, from which he opened a warm artillery fire upon my command as it moved up to occupy the deserted line of works. I deployed my command in line under the cover of the works, my right resting on the turnpike, and my left connecting with Colonel Sanders brigade. I remained in this po- ~ition during the 14th amid 15th, changing the works, so that the Page 135 CHAP. XLVIIII SOUTH SIDE OF THE JAMES. formed a good line of defense for my command. Dnring these two days some skirmishing occurred in my front, the details of which are unimportant. On the morning of the 16th instant my command was nnder arms at 3.30 oclock. Immediately after daylight the enemy commenced an attack npon onr Jines. My brigade was shelled qnite severely, while the enemy made a fnrions attack with his infantry on the troops to the right of the pike. Our forces here having been with- drawn, the attack gradually extended to the left, and in the conrse of an hour my brigade became consi(lerably involved in the fight. My skirmishers were driven in after an obstinate resistance, bring- ing with them 20 prisoners. The attack now became more furious, when Lient. Col. M. B. Smith, commanding the Eighth Connecticut Volunteers, on the extreme right of my brigade, next to the pike, after making but feeble resistance, abandoned the line of fortifica- tions in a very discreditable manner, and ordered his regiment to fall back, which it did in considerable confusion. The remaining three regiments met the attack of the enemy, and, pouring a withering fire of musketry upon him, drove him back i~i confusion. The at- tack was again renewed, the enemy attempting to carry the position by a furious charge, but he was again repulsed, with a heavy loss in killed, wounded, and prisoners. I think, on this occasion, that some telegraph wire which I had ordered to be strung on the stumps in front of our position had a good effect in throwing the enemy into confusion as he charged my position. The fight continued to rage hotly, my command holding its position with great tenacity, with the exception that the line of the One hundred and eighteenth New York was somewhat modified to protect the right flank of the bri- gade, which was strongly threatened by the enemy. At about 10 oclock the brigade was withdrawn to the edge of the woods, by order of General Brooks, the enemy at that time having been driven completely from our front, my brigade, besides heavy loss inflicted upon hiiu in killed and wounded, bringing off rising 100 prisoners. Soon after the brigade was withdrawn to the Half-Way House, my skirmishers being left to hold Friends house, and the woods to the left of that house, whiQh they did until late in the afternoon. The Tenth New Hampshire Volunteers was left at the Half-Way House to snpport a battery, and my other three regiments were drawn up in line on the right of the turnpike, forming the extreme left of the Eighteenth Corps. At about 3 p. m. an advance of the whole line was ordered, in which the brigade participated, meeting with no resistance from the enemy. Subsequently, having been rejoined by the Ter~th New Hampshire, and my skirmishers left to hold Friends house, I marched to camp, in obedience to orders from General Brooks. In this entire series of engagements my loss was 418 officers and men. I think the endurance and bravery displayed by the men of this command very creditable and worthy of commendation. I take pleasure in bringing to your favorable notice Col. A. F. Stevens, of the Thirteenth New Hampshire Volunteers; Lieut. Col. John Coughlin, of the Tenth New Hampshire Volunteers; Lieut. Col. George F. Nichols and Maj. C. E. Prnyn, One hundred and eighteenth New York Volunteers, for the tenacity and bravery with which they held their positions in the engagement of the 16th in- stant. Major Prayn, of the One hundred and eight~enth New York Volunteers, coummanded his regiment in this battle after the wound Page 136 136 O1~EILATIONs IN ~ VA. AM) ~. C. [CHAP. XLVIII. ing of Lieutenant-Colonel Nichols, and brought the regiment off with ranks well closed and every man rn his place, notwithstanding the fact that that regiment had lost nearly 200 men in killed and wounded. The gallant conduct of Lieutenant-Colonel Coughlin, of the Tenth New Hampshire, on the night of May 9 at Swift Creek, and also in charging the enemy on the 12th, is worthy of special mention. I have also to bring to your notice the good conduct of Maj. J. F. Angell, of the Tenth New Hampshire, who commanded my skirmishers on the night of the 13th in front of the enemys works, on which occasion he was severely wounded. I have already mentioned the gallantry of Col. J. E. Ward, of the Eighth Connecti- cut Volunteers, and the good conduct of his regiment in the engage- ment of the 7th. There are numerous other instances of gallant and meritorious conduct which can only be enumerated in a special report for that purpose. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, H. BURNHAM, Capt. THEODORE READ, Brigadier-General, Commanding. Assistant Adjutant- General. ADDENDA. Itinerary of the Second Brigade. First Division, Eighteenth Army Corps, May 4~~31.* May 4.The brigade embarked on transports at Yorktown and set sail for Bermuda Hundred. May 5.Arrived at that place. May 6.Disembarked. May 7.Fought the enemy on the Richmond and Petersburg Rail- road. May 9 and 10.Were engaged with the enemy at Swift Creek. May 12 to 15, inclusive, skirmishing with the enemy along the Richmond and Petersburg turnpike and in the vicinity of Drewrys Bluff. May 16.The brigade participated in the battle of Proctors Creek; returned to camp at Bermuda Hundred at night. May 27.Moved camp back near landing at Bermuda Hundred. Jluy 29.Embarked on transports. May 30.Arrived at White House and disembarked. May 31.Marched to camp near New Castle. No. 53. Report of Lieut. C~ol. Martin B. Smith, Eighth Connecticut Infantry, of operations May 716. HDQRS. EIGHTH REGIMENT CONNECTICUT VOLS., Near Petersburg, Va., May 18, 1864. GENERAL: I have the honor to make the following report of the operations of my regiment in the recent engagements with the en- emv from the 6th to the 16th instant: JYhe regiment left camp at daybreak on the morning of the 7th, was ordered to the front as skirmishers, driving the enemy from a strong position in the woods and then advanced i~ line of battle and * From return for May Page 137 CHAP. XLVIII.) 137 SOUTh SIDE OF TILE JAMES. engaged the enemy, who were strongly posted behind the Rich- mond and Petersburg Railroad embankment, until ordered to fall back for want of ammunition. We returned to camp that night, the loss being 4 killed, 61 wounded, and 7 missing; among the wounded were 4 commissioned officers. The regiment again left camp on the morning of the 9th. During the day the two flank companies were engaged as skirmishers. The regiment during the morning was held as reserve for the brigade on their advance toward Petersburg. About noon the regiment was ordered into a position on the Richmond and Petersburg Railroad by General Brooks; this position we held until night-fall, in the mean time having de- stroyed a portion of the railroad. At 6 p. m. we were ordered to form in line of battle on the right of the brigade line; this position we held until the afternoon of the 10th, when we were withdrawn to a position under cover of the woods, which we held until the with- drawal of the pickets, our loss being 1 killed and 2 wounded, all en- listed men. We returned to the camp on the afternoon of the 10th. On the morning of the 12th, in accordance with orders received, we advanced with the brigade up the Richmond and Petersburg turn-. pike. The regiment was constantly to the front from this date until the evening of the 16th, a large portion of the time acting in con- nection with the One hundred and eighteenth New York Volunteers as a reserve for the skirmishers. Advancing slowly toward the outer works around Fort Darling, on the morning of the 14th, in cominection with One hundred and eighteenth New York Volun- teers, we charged and captured the enemys outer line of intrench- ments, and were ordered into position along the line of works, our right resting on the turnpike. This position we held until the morning of the 16th, when the enemy charged on our forces to our right and drove them, leaving our flank entirely exposed. Finding our right flank thus exposed, I ordered three companies to protect the flank, but it was found impossible to hold that position, there- fore they fell back under cover of the woods. We held our position on the works for soume time, with considerable loss, until flanked both right and left, when we fell back in as good order as possible, under the circumstances, the fog and smoke being so dense that it was impossible for officers or men to distinguish each other. We then took a position between the Tenth New Hampshire Volunteers and One hundred and eighteenth New York Volunteers. We remained in this position until the One hundred and eighteenjh New York Volunteers fell back, when we took our position on the right of the Tenth New Hampshire Volunteers, where we remained until nearly noon, when we were ordered o fall back. Not to expose my nien more than possible, I ordered them to fall back 2 or 3 at a time. On the afternoon of the 1 6th we moved together with the brigade forward to near the enemys works, where we remained until evening, when ordered to fall back to camp. Our loss from May 12 to 16 was 7 killed, 30 wounded, and 28 missing; this number includes 1 commissioned officer killed and 1 wounded. Too much praise cannot be given to both officers and memi for the faithful performance of every duty. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, M. B. SMITH, Lieat. Ool., Gomdg. Eighth Connecticut Vole. Brig. Gen. H. J. MousE, Adjutant- General, State of Connecticut Page 138 138 OPERATIONS IN SE. VA. AND N. C. [CHAP. XLVIII. No. 54. Report of Gol. Aaron F. Stevens, Thirteenth New Hampshire In fantry, of operations Nay 7-16. HDQRS. THIRTEENTH NEW HAMPSHIRE VOLUNTEERS, iJJiay 19, 1864. SIR: In compliance with Special Orders, No. 18, dated headquar- ters Second Brigade, First Division, Eighteenth Army Corps, May 19, 1864, I have the honor to report the operations of the regiment under my command in the recent engagements with the enemy from the 6th to the 16th instant: On the morning of the 7th instant we left camp in light marching order; proceeded toward the Richmond and Petersburg Railroad. About 4 miles from camp the column came up with the enemy. The Eighth Connecticut being deployed as skirmishers, my regiment, in connection with others of the brigade, deployed in line of battle to the right of the road and supported the skirmishers. We ad- vanced in line and occupied the position from which the enemy had been driven. We afterward moved to the right of that position in order to support the Eighth Connecticut, who were then skirmish- ing with the enemy. The last named regiment was soon withdrawn. and my regiment, in connection with the Tenth New Hampshire, held the advance until orders were given to retire. We lost ~in this days operations one man onlySergt. Gibuan Davis, Company A, who was mortally wounded. Monday, the 9th instant, the regiment left camp about 5 a. in., and marched ovei the same road and deployed in line on the left at a point nearly opposite the position occupied on the Saturday pre- ceding. A line of skirmishers from the Eighty-first New York having been deployed on our front, my regiment moved forward in support on the left of the brigade, Company C being thrown out as flankers on the left. We moved without meeting the enemy to the line of the Port Walthall Branch Railroad. From this point we moved to the right and down the Petersburg road and by the Peters- burg and Richmond Railroad to within a niile of Swift Creek, where we were again deployed in line, and Companies B and E, under com- mand of Captain Julian, were deployed as skirmishers on the left, the remainder of the regiment remaining in support of the skirmish line. The en~my having been driven by the skirmishers across the creek, my regiment took position in the brigade line in rear of Ship- pens house. This position was maintained until the next (lay about noon, when we retired under orders. At night my skirmishers Were relieved by Companies F and G of my regiment, under command of Captain Stoodley. About 8 oclock that night the pickets of the Tenth New Hampshire, in advance of the line, were driven in upon their supports by a charge of the emiemy, but he was repulsed and driven back promptly by the Tenth. We remained in support of the Tenth during the night, firing being renewed from time to time by the enemy. In this days operations Privates George E. Bodge and William F. Staples, of Company B, were severely wounded while skirmishing with the enemy. In the operations of the suc- ceeding day Private Charles Heath, of Company H, was severely wounded in the head by a musket-ball, and Corpl. James L. Glen- ville, of Comnpamiy D, was wounded in the wrist, as he states, whil Page 139 CHAP. mvm.j ~O1YTH sIP1~ oi~ TILE JXMI~. 139 absent from his company in the line of skirmishers. On the after- noon of the 10th instant we returned to camp. The regiment left camp about 7 oclock on the morning of Ihe 12th instant and moved with its brigade to the Richmond and Petersburg turnpike, which it crossed and took its position on the west side of the turnpike near Dr. Cheathams house (Company K, Captain Betton, were deployed as flankers to protect our left). At this point Company H (Captain Smith) and Company I (Captain Goss) were deployed as skirmishers. The remainder of the regiment moved in line through the woods and a swamp to the turnpike, capturing 4 prisoners. For some cause a gap had been opened in the line of skirmishers and I found my regiment when we again reached the turnpike unexpectedly under the fire of the enemys artillery and considerably in advance of the line of skirmishers. I at once with- drew it from its position to the line of support. We encamped that night near the position last mentioned. In the operations of that day Private George F. Harmon, Company A, was killed, and Private Robert Oliver, Company C, and James Mooney, Company D, were wounded by the enemys shell. On the 13th instant we moved for- ward with the command across Falling Creek and skirmished with the enemy during the day, Companies A, C, and D of my regiment being on duty as skirmishers that day and actively engaged with the enemy during the day and night. In this days operation Sergt. Nathaniel F. Meserve, of Company A, was killed. Sergt. Charles W. Batchelder, Corpl. John E. Prescott, Private John McCarty, of Company D, and Corpl. W. D. Carr, of Company G, were wounded. On the morning of the 14tI~ instant we started at 6 oclock and moved forward in support of the line of skirmishers. We soon came upon the outer works of the enemy at Drewrys Bluff and took posi- tion in connection with the brigade on the left of the turnpike, where we remained until the morning of the 16th. My regiment lost in the operations of the 14th Privates George W. Hutchins, of Com- pany A, Eli Huntoon, Austin Gilman, and Henry Lynch, of, Com- pany D, Jeremiah Morrow, of Company H, an(l Joseph F. Lampson, of Company I, wounded. Company I (Captain Goss) relieved the three above-named conipanies in the skirmish line and there remained until relieved by Company B (Lieutenant Gafney), who remained on the skirmish line until about the time we were ordered to retire on the morning of the 16th. On Sunday, the 15th, the regimnent was not engaged, but occupied its position at the earth-works. At 3. ~30 a. m. on Monday, the 16th, the reginment was under arms. Soon after daylight a brisk firing was heard on our right and soon extended to our front. The fog was dense, but it was apI)arent that our skirmishers in front were hotly engaged with the enemy. About an hour after sunrise the fog lifted sufficiently to enable us to (lis- cover the enemy maneuvering and apparently massing his troops in the edge of the woods in front and to the left of us, with a view to an assault upon our position. My regiment opened fire, and about the same time Lieutenant Gafmiey with his skirmishers retired and rejoined the regiment. They had captured 24 prisoners, including 2 officers. At this time the enemy in large numbers was plainly to be seen in the edge of the woods. They kept up a continuous fire upon our position. The fighting continued until about 9 a. in., when we received peremptory orders to retire from the position. We crossed the field in our rear without casualty and took position in the edge of the woods on the west of the turmipike. Company E (Captam Page 140 140 OPERATIONS IN SE. VA. AND N. C. [CHAP. XLVIII. Julian) was deployed at the edge of the woods as skirmishers to cover the retreat and was withdrawn when the column retired in the after- noon. The regiment retired with the brigade, recrossed the turnpike, and took position east of the Half-Way House. Company H (Cap- tain Smith) was here thrown out as flankers. The regiment moved into camp that afternoon at the head of the column. The casualties on the 16th were Sergt. Nathaniel E. Dickey, of Company B, Pri- vate Andrew M. Dunsmore, of Company C, Corpi. John S. Cheney, of Company D, Corpl. W. B. Lewis, of Company I, and Second Lieut. Robert R. Thompson, of Company H, wounded; Private John H. Harvey, of Company E, and Corpl. John C. Walker, Company H, killed. Private Owen McMann, of Company E, missing. The following-named officers only took part in these operations, viz: A. F. Stevens, colonel commanding; Maj. William Grantman; Capt. E. E. Dodge, acting major; Capt. Normand Smith, command- ing Company H; Capt. N. D. Stoodley. commanding Company G; Capt. George N. Julian, commanding Company E; Capt. Matthew T. Betton, commanding Company K; Capt. E. W. Goss, commanding Company I; Capt. Buel C. Carter, commanding Company A. First two days only: Capt. George Farr, commanding Company D; First Lient. James M. Durell, commanding Company C; First Lient. Charles B. Gafney, commanding Company B; First Lient. H. W. Hall, commanding Company A; First Lient. J. Dustin com- manding Company F; Second Lient. H. Churchill, CompaAy A; Second Lient. C. C. Favor, Company B; Second Lieut. A. J. Sher- man, Company D; Second Lieut. S. M. Thompson, Company E; Second Lieut. George H. Taggard, Company F; Second Lieut. L. C. Oliver, Company G; Second Lient. 11. R. Thompson, Company H; Chaplain George G. Jones; First Lient. R. P. Staniels, acting adjutant; First Lient. M. L. Morrison, regimental quartermaster; Dr. E. Morrill, assistant surgeon. This list is exclusive of officers detached and on the general staff. Drs. Richardson and Sullivan were on detached service at the hos- pital. The conduct of the officers and men of the command was commend- able. They endured the fatigue and met the dangers of seven days marching and fighting without flinching, and, under all the circum- stances, with commendable promptness and alacrity. I beg leave to commend particularly the tenacity with which they held their posi- tion on the morning of tue 16th (in connection with the Tenth New Hampshire, posted on their right) against two lines of the enemy for sonic time after it was known that our right had been turned an(l the troops on our immediate left had retired across the field. A portion of the camp and garrison equipage of the regiment, together with officers baggage, adjutant and quartermaster books and papers were brought up to our position on Sunday evening, Thth. In retiring from our position the next morning, we, in common with other regiments and commands, were obliged to abandon a consider- able share of iL The adjutant and quartermaster desks, books, and papers were necessarily left upon the field and lost. The following is the report of prisoners captured by my regi- ment: By Company A, Lieutenant Hall commanding I By Company B, Lieutenant Gafney commanding 24 By Company D, Captain Farr commanding 1 Page 141 CHAP. XLVILI.] SOUTH SIDE OF THE JAMES. 141 By Company E, Captain Julian commanding 3 By Company I, Captain (4oss commanding 13 By Company K, Captain Betton, commanding 8 Total . I have the honor to be, very respectfully, your obedient servant, [A. F. STEVENS,] Colonel 13th New Hampshire Vols., Commanding. Capt. C. A. CLARK, Acting Assistant Adjutant- General. No. ~5. Report of Col. Horace T. Sanders, Nineteenth Wisconsin Infantry, commanding Third krigu de, of operations May 1216. HDQRS. NINETEENTH REGT. WISCONSIN VOLUNTEERS, Point of Rocks, Va., May 24, 1864. CAPTAIN: I have the honor to submit the following detailed re- port of the movements of the Third Brigade, First Division, right- eenth Army Corps, in the late march to the front, commencing on the 12th and ending on the 16th instant, both days inclusive: The Nineteenth Wisconsin Volunteers, commanded by Lieut. Col. R. M. Strong, and the Omie hundred and eighty-eighth Pennsylvania Volunteers, commanded by Lieut. Col. George K. Bowen, moved from camp near Point of Rocks at 6 a. m. of the 12th instant, fol- lowing the brigade commanded by Brigadier-General Marston. At 10 a. m. the Nineteenth Wisconsin Volunteers were drawn up in line of battle, the One hundred and eighty-eighth Pennsylvania Volunteers in ~olumn of divisions, in an open field near the pike. At 12 m. we were ordered to advance in the same order. After a march of about one-half niile through a dense thicket or chaparral, the brigade halted 4 the brow of a hill on the left of and near the pike. At this point Companies A, C, and F, Nineteenth Wisconsin Volunteers, were thrown out as skirmishers on the left of the bri- gade, the right of the line of skirmishers resting on tIme pike. May 13, at daylight, the brigade moved by the left flank to a field about one-half mile distant and halted for a short time, the skir- mishers deployed the day previous not having been called in. An advance was then ordered across the field, fording Kingsland Creek by the right flank, arriving in front of the Half-Way House at 11 a. m. The brigade then formed in column of divisions in the woods on the left of General Burnhams brigade. In the mean time the line of skirmishers had advanced and taken possession of the out- buildings of the brick house near Drewrys Bluff. They were attacked by a superior force and compelled to retire to the open field with a loss of 11 men wounded. At this point a re-enforcement of three companies of the One hundred and eighty-eighth Penn- sylvaiiia Volunteers, under command of Major Reichard, was sent out. A charge was instantly made and the enemy driven back to his former position in rear of the brick house. This timely move checked the enemy when he least expected it. In this charge the One hundred and eighty-eighth Pennsylvania Volunteers sustaine Page 142 142 OPERATiONS IN SE. VA. AND N. C. ECHAP. XLVIII. a loss of 1 sergeant killed and 4 privates wounded. The command maintained this position during the night. At 6 p. m. the skir- mishers of the Nineteenth Wisconsin Volunteers were relieved by the One hundred and eighty-eighth Pennsylvania Volunteers. May 14, at daylight, the brigade was advanced under a severe fire to the enemys first line of works, comprising the defenses of Drew- rys Bluff. In the advance across the open field in front of the works, we sustained a loss of 2 privates in the Nineteenth Wisconsin Volunteers, and 4 privates in the One hundred and eighty-eighth Pennsylvania Volunteers, wounded. At 9 a. m. this line advanced to the woods and formed a line of battle under shelter of th~ timber. The enemy occasionally shelled our position during the day without injury until 3 p. in., when a shell from the enemy killed 2 and wounded 2 men of the Nineteenth Wisconsin Volunteers and 1 man of the One hundred and eighty-eighth Pennsylvania Volunteers. During the day and night of the 14th and 15th instant the coin- mand was under arms and ready to move at a moments notice. May 16, at 6 a. in., the One hundred and eighty-eighth Pennsyl- vania Volunteers moved and took a iiew position in line of battle on the pike in rear of corps headquarters. Owing to the density of the fog I ani unable to give the exact location. From this froiit the right wing made a vigorous and determined charge on~ the enemy for the purpose of retaking a portion of Captain Belgers Rhode Island Battery. In this charge the loss of the One hui~idred and eighty-eighth Pennsylvania Voluiiteers was severe, a detailed state- nieut of which has been heretofore forwarded in the list of casualties. About 9 a. m. the Nineteenth Wisconsin Volunteers was ordered to retire and take position under cover of the woods iii front of the Half-Way House. Here the One hundred amid eighty-eighth Penn- sylvania Volunteers rejoined the brigade and took position on the left. At 10.30 a. m. the command moved and formed line of battle on the left of Brigadier-General Weitzels division. At 2.30 p. m. we moved in order of battle in echelon to the woodson the left. In this advance the loss of the Nineteenth Wisconsin Volunteers was severe, being 2 killed and 10 wounded. We then retired to camp near Poimit of Rocks without further accident. I am, captain, very respectfully, your obedient servant, H. T. SANDERS, Colonel Nineteenth Wisconsin Volunteers. Capt. THEODORE READ, Asst. Adjt. Gem., First Div., Eighteenth Army Corps. No. 56. Report of Col. Arthur H Dutton, Twenty-first Connecticut Infantry, commanding Third Brigade, of operations May 16. HDQRS. THIRD BRIG., FIRST Div., 18TH ARMY CORPS, May 22, 1864. COLONEL: In obedience to orders from headquarters Eighteenth Army Corps, calling upon me for a statement of orders carried or given by me durimig the engagements of the 12th to 16th instant, I have the honor to submit the following: I have no recollection of any orders given by me during any en- gagement prior to that of the 16th instant. If any was given it in- Page 143 CHAP. XLVIII.] SOUTH SIDE OF THE JAMES. 143 volved no movement of sufficient importance to make an impression on my mind. Early on the morning of the 16th instant, having notified Major-General Smith of the disaster to Heckmans brigade, I was directed to call on Brigadier-General Ames for re-enforcements for our right. General Ames had already sent the One hundred and twelfth New York Volunteers to the right and front, they being guided through the dense fog only by the sound of musketry. He had remaining only the Ninth Maine Volunteers, which lie turned over to me, and which I instantly conducted up the turnpike, then via the cross-road to the road parallel to the turnpike, across which Heckmans brigade had originally been formed some distance farther to the front. Here I learned that the One hundred and twelfth New York had in advancing received a severe volley from the enemy in ambush, mortally wounding the commanding officer and killing and wounding many others. This, together with the density of the fog and the temporary cessation of firing, made me suspicious that the enemy were striving to turn our right still more completely by passing between our iiifantry and the river and taking us in rear. I therefore directed the colonel of the Ninth Maiiie to hold the cross-road until I could communicate with Major-General Smith. General Smith, hearing my report, ordered me to cause this regiment to picket our right uiitil connection should be niade with the colored cavalry, whose pickets extended to the river. I made this disposition and was about to post the reserves and the One hundred and twelfth New York in a position to advance when Brigadier-General Weitzel took charge of them. Shortly afterward I was directed by the latter offi- cer to cause these regiments to fall back slowly to the open space nearly abreast of the Half-Way House, still holding the road parallel to the turiipike. Having conducted them to that positioii and formed them in line I rejoined General Smith. Later, during the engagement, I carried to Brigadier-General Brooks an order to the effect that General Weitzels left being in danger lie (General Brooks) would close into the right and protect General Weitzels left flank. No other orders of importance were given by me during the day. I have the honor to be, very respectfully, your obedient servant, A. H. DUTTON, Colonel Twenty-first Connecticut Vols., Gomdg. Brigade. Lieut. Col. NICOLAS BOWEN, Assistant Adjutant- General. No. 57. Report of Lieut. Col. Thomas F. Burpee, Twenty-first Elonnecticut infantry, of operations May 1516. HDQRS. TWENTY-FIRST CONNECTICUT VOL. INFTY., In the Field neo~r Bermuda Hundred, Va., May 17, 1864. CAPTAIN: I have the honor to submit the following report of the operations of the Twenty-first Con~necticut Volunteer Infantry dur- iiig the 15th and 16th instant: At 3 p. m. of the 15th I was ordered to report to General Weitzel with the regiment under my command, and w~s by him placed unde Page 144 144 OPERATIONS IN SE. VA. AND N. C [CHAP. XLVIII. the command of General Heckman, commanding the brigade on the extreme right. A short time before sundown on the 15th the regi- ment took its position on the left of the brigade of General Heck- man, with the left joining the right of General Wistars command, which position we were ordered to hold at all hazards. The pickets were kept well out to the front during th~ night, but nothing un- usual transpired till about 4 oclock on the morning of the 16th, when a very heavy fire of musketry was opened on the right of our bri- gade, accompanied by tremendous yelling. After this firing had mostly ceased my own pickets became warmly engaged and reported that a body of the enemy were passing around to the right by the flank. The fog was so dense that nothing could be seen at a (us- tance, and the enemys artillery were playing upon us with shell and case-shot. I went to the regiment next on my right, the Eighth Maine Volunteers, to ascertain the state of affairs, and found that regiment moving away by the flank, and learned that the right had been completely crushe(l. The Eighth Maine then took a position at right angles with that held by my regiment, with its left resting on my center, but subsequently it a(lvanced sufficiently to bring~ its left to my right. During this time my skirmishers and their supports had been warmly engaged, receiving a fire in front and flank. At this time they were driven in by an advance of the enemy in line. A few volleys from the breast-works compelled this limme to retire, and the skmrmmshers were again throwim out. About this time I received information that re-enforcements were coming to our assist- ance and would again occupy the old line on the right of my regi- muent. I then charged forward my right wing, which had swung around to the rear along the line of breast-works three times to regain their position, and succeeded in forcing back tIme enemy about 100 yards to its former position, and the Eighth Maine attempted a similar movement, but by. the time two of its companmes had got into position they were received by a galling fire in front and flank, which comupelled them to retire, leaving my flank and rear entirely unprotected. I then changed fromit to rear, bringing my left into and at right angles with the right of General Wistars line. By the time this movement was completed the regiment on my left retired, leaving my regiment alone on the limme, and, being hard pressed, receiving a fire on both flanks and in front, I retired slowly in line, fighting, until I reached the cross-roads leading out of the swamp, which I followed into the open field. Here the brigade line was reformed and advanced into the woods about 100 yards, under the orders of Colommel Wead, of the Ninety-eighth New York, where we remained about thirty minutes warmly engaged, and then retired with the rest of Colonel Weads command into the field. Subsequently with the brigade we took a position on the second line, where we remained until 6 p. in., about which time we retired to the line of intrenchments, actirtg as rear guard for the division. The following is the list of casualties. * I am, captain, very respectfully, your obedient servant, ETHOS. F. BURPEE,] Lieutenant- Colonel, Commanding Regiment. ASST. ADJT. GEN., BRIG. GEN. .WEITZELS COMMAND. * Nominal list (omitted) shows 14 enlisted men killed, 6 officers and 63 enlisted men wounded, and 24 enlisted men missing; total, 6 officers and 101 enlisted men Page 145 CHAP. XLVIII.] SOUTH SIDE OF THE JAMES. 145 No. 58. Report of Maj. Hiram B. Crosby, Twenty-first Connecticut Infantry, of operations 3fay 25-26. HDQRS. TWENTY-FIRST REGT., CONNECTICUT VOLS., June 6, 1864. GENERAL: On the 25th of May, Col. A. H. Dutton, commanding the brigade, having received orders from Maj. Gen. William F. Smith to reconnoiter the left of the enemys position, near our line of intrenchments at Bermuda Hundred, designated this regiment for that purpose. The reginient passed outside our lines and crossed the deep and almost impassable ravine that runs along the left of our works until it meets the Appomattox. On the farther side of the ravine the left wing was posted in reserve, and the remaining com- panies were advanced to the front. Our skirmishers swept along the west bank of the ravine, and thence farther into the interior, coming well on to the enemys right flank. But night coming on, Colonel Dutton recalled the skirmishers, and the regiment returned to camp, with orders to be ready to continue the reconnaissance early the next morning. On the day following, the 26th, Colonel Dutton again crossed the ravine with the brigade, consisting of the Twenty-first Connecticut, Fifty-eighth Pennsylvania, One hundred and eighty-eighth Penn- sylvania, and Ninety-second New York, with orders to push the re- connaissance until stopped by the enemy. General Devens brigade also moved out on our extreme left along the Port Walthall road, to co-operate with Colonel button, who took up the line of march in the direction of Port Walthall. After an advance of about 2 miles through heavy woods, our skirmish line came upon the rebels, strongly intrenched and almost hidden from view by the thick un- derbrush. Line of battle was formed at once, but as our skirmishers were becoming engaged, Colonel Dutton, who was then, as usnal, on the skirmish line, was mortally wounded. The command then de- volved upon Lieutenant-Colonel Burpee, Twenty-first Connecticut as General Devens had not succeeded in uniting with our brigade. Colonel Burpee shortly afterward received orders from the major- general commanding to retire, as the enemy were then massing opposite the center of our intrenched line. Colonel button died from the effect of his wound on the 5th of June. He graduated at West Point in 1861, Kilpatrick, Custer, ORorke, Benjamin, and Farquhar being among his classmates. Bold and chivalrous, with a nice sense of honor, a judgment quick and decisive, an unwavering zeal in his chosen profession, he was in every respect a thorough soldier. As an engineer, his talents were of the highest order, and at the time of his death he had attained the rank of captain of engineers in the regular army. By his com- panions in arms he will never be forgotten, and to them his last rest- ing place will be as a shrine commemorating the friendships which the rude shock of war nor lapse of time can blight or destroy. I have the honor to be, general, very respectfully, your obedient servant, HIRAM B. CROSBY, Brig. Gen. H. .~. MORSE, Major, G~9mmandinq. Adjutant- General of Connecticut. ~ RYQL XxxvI, PT IT Page 146 146 OPERATIONS IN SE. VA. AND N. C. [CHAP. XLVIII. No. 59. Report of M~j. Theodore H. Sehenek, Third New York Light Artil lery, commanding Artillery Brigade, of operations May 616. HDQRS. ARTY. BRIG., FIRST Div., 18TH ARMY CORPS, In the Field, ]Jiliay 22, 1864. SIR: I have the honor to report that Batteries L, of the Fourth, and A, of the Fifth U. S. Artillery, a part of this command, arrived at Bermuda Hundred on the morning of the 6th of May, and were immediately disembarked, and joined the First Division about 3 p. m. of that day. On the 8th day of May the Fourth Wisconsin Battery, Capt. George B. Easterly, reported for duty. Battery K, Third New York Volunteer Artillery, was left at Newport News when the command was embarked, and has not yet .reported. On the 6th, by order of Major-General Smith, a section of Battery L, Fourth U. S. Artillery, nuder the command of Lieutenant Stelges, reported to General Heck- man for duty, and engaged the enemy for about one hour, with what success is not known. Loss, 1 man slightly wounded. On the 7th a section of Battery L, Fourth United States, Lieutenant hunt com- manding, engaged the enemy near the Richmond and Petersburg Railroad, the eneniy having four rifled guns in position. The fire of the section was well directed, and the enemy, having changed position several times, was silenced after an engagement of about one hour, without loss to us; enemys loss unknown. On Monday, May 9, Battery A, of the Fifth U. S. Artillery, and the Fourth Wis- consin Battery, were ordered to report to General Martindale, corn- manding brigade. Battery L, Fourth U. S. Artillery, Lieut. J. S. Hunt commanding, remained under the immediate command of General Brooks, commanding First Division. On the 9th and 10th four gnus of this battery (Battery L, Fourth U. S. Artillery) were engaged at different times in shelling a bridge on the Richmond and Petersburg Railroad, with but little apparent damage to the bridge, though the fire evidently prevented the enemy from placing a battery at the end of the bridge held by them. On the 9th the Fourth Wisconsin Battery engaged an earth-work of the enemy near the Appomattox River, at a distance of 2,300 yards, the enemy opposing the battery with one 32-pounder gun. The fire of the Fourth Wisconsin silenced that of the enemy after an engage- inent of one hour. The battery did not sustain any loss. Battery A, Fifth U. S. Artillery, was not engaged. On the 13th the whole command moved on the Richmond and Petersburg turnpike, toward Richmond. Near the Half-Way House Battery L lost 1 horse, being posted in a field near the turnpike in the rear of Battery IE, Third New York Volunteer Artillery, which was engaged with the enemy. On the 14th Battery L, Fourth United States, and the Fourth Wis- consin Battery, were engaged in shelling an earth-work of the enemy near Drewrys Bluff. Here, the batter.ies being subjected to the fire of a battery of the enemy concealed by the woods, 1 man was wounded in the Fourth Wisconsin Battery by the explosion of a case-shot. On the 15th none of the batteries of the command were engaged. Battery L, Fourth U. S. Artillery, and the Fourth Wis- cousin Battery, were posted on a bill about 900 yards from and in rear of the position of the day previous. Battery A, Fifth U. S. Arti1lei~y, was in position on the right of tbe turnpike and ~IVbQU Page 147 CHAP. XLVIII.] SOUTh SIDE OF TILE JAMES. 147 1,000 yards in front of the earth-work of the enemy. On the 16th the three batteries of the command were in position in line to the. right of and front of the Half-Way House. At daybreak the fog was so dense as to render artillery almost useless, and about one hour after daybreak the command was withdrawn, by command of Major- General Smith, to a hill about 1,200 yards in rear of the Half-Way House, on the left of the turn p ike. Battery A, Fifth U. S. Artillery, Lieutenant Beecher commanding, was ordered to the front occupied by the battery in the morning. An attack was made by the enemy, in the repulse of which Battery A was engaged, using canister at 400 yards. On the afternoon of this day the command returned to its present camp, with the excel)tion of one section of the Fourth Wisconsin and one section of Battery A, Fifth U. S. Artillery, ordered to report to General Gillmore, which sections joined the command that night. The losses of the command have been previously reported. From remaining constantly in harness, the necks of the artillery horses are niuch galled. Respectfully submitted. THEO. H. SCHENCK, lIiaj., Gorndg. Arty. Brig., First Div., 18th Army Corps. Capt. THEODORE READ, Asst. Ac~jt. Gen., First Div., Eighteenth Army Corps. No. 60. Report of Capt. George B. Easterly, Fourth Wisconsin Battery, of operations May 721. CAMP FOURTH WISCONSIN LIGHT BATTERY, Near Petersburg, May 21, 1864; MAJOR: I have the honor to submit the following report of the operations of the Fourth Wisconsin Light Battery from its arrival at Bermuda Hundred to the present date: The battery disembarked at Bermuda Hundred on the 7th instant, with the exception of 53 horses, on board of a schooner, which, on account of getting aground in the James River, did not arrive until the forenoon of the 8th instant. On the evening of the same (lay the battery reported for duty at the headquarters of the First Divis- ion, Eighteenth Army Corps. At daylight on the morning of the 9th instant the battery marched with one days rations, under com- mand of Brigadier-General Martindale, in the direction of Peters- burg, on right bank of the River Appomattox. At 11 a. m. position was taken near the river on a small bluff to the left of Fort Clifton, a rebel work on the junction of Swift Creek and the Appomattox, at a distance of 2,350 yards. The enemy immediately opened fire, throwing 32-pound shrapnel. The fire from the battery soon silencQd them. The only casualty occurring was the loss of my private horse, a shrapnel shell passing through him. In about an hour I retired from this position, leaving one section with directions to keep up a fire at intervals. I moved forward with four guns, with the Third Brigade. First Division, Eighteenth AVmy Corps, and ~mped with it until next mornimig near Swift Cicek, Qn the 111QV11 Page 148 148 OPERATIONS IN SE. VA. AND N. C. [CRAP. XLVIII. ing of the 10th instant I was ordered to report to Maj. Gen. W. F. Smith. At 11 a. nii. I received orders to return to camp occupied the 8th instant, the section posted by itself to return as the infantry in its front retired by it. Friday, the 13th instant, at 1 p. in., I received orders to move with my battery to the front on the turnpike road. I reached there and remained over night ou the road 2,000 yards in rear of the Half-Way House. At 8 a. m. the 14th instant I was ordered into position close to the first line of works abandoned by the enemy, in a field to the left of the Friend brick house, and opened fire on a redoubt of the enemys second line, 1,000 yards distant. No reply was elicited. While in this position I was subjected to au oblique fire from the enemys guns concealed from view by a strip of woods. One cannoneer was wounded by the explosion of a case-shell. I expended during the day 232 rounds of ammunition. At night I camped on the extreme right of the open ground in front of the Half-Way House, with battery in position. At daylight the 15th instant I returned with battery and occupied the same position as the previous day, and was shortly ordered to a position about 700 yards to the rear, still com- manding the enemys redoubt. I did not opeii fire (luring the day, and at night I retired and camped as the night before. At daylight of the 16th instant I occupied the position held the 15th. The dense fog prevented me from opening fire. I remained here until ordered to gain the turnpike with all haste. I had one man wounded on reaching the turnpike. While leaving my position I received a few shots from the artillery of the enemy. I was again posted on a hill to the left of the turn p ike and 1,500 yards in rear of the Half-Way House and remained there until late in the afternoon, when I was ordered to return to camp now occupied, which I reached at 5 p. in. While returning one section of my battery was detached and ordered to report to Major-General Gillmore, who immediately, on its re- porting to him, ordered its return. I have the honor to be, major, very respectfully, your obedient servant, G. B. EASTERLY. Maj. THEODORE H. SCHENCK, Captain, & c. Gomdg. Arty. Brig., First Div., Eighteenth Army Corps. No. ~il. Reports of Brig. Gen. Godfrey Weitzel, U. S. Army, commanding Second Division, of operations Miay 916. HDQRS. SECOND DIVISION, EIGHTEENTH ARMY CORPS, Cobbs Hilt, Va., A/lay 11,1864. SIR: I have the honor to report that in accordance with orders I nioved with my whole command, excepting my picket-line and Ashbys battery, at 5.30 a. in., on the 9th instant, following Brooks division in the direction of the Petersburg and Richmond Railroad. soon as Brooks deployment was complete I commenced the deployment of Heckinans brigade, so that its left should connect with Brooks right. This deployment being co~nplete, having in tb~ nwan time discovered tb~t the en~mny h~d left onr imrnedi~t Page 149 CliAP. XLViIL.3 SOUTh sIDE OF THE JAMES. 149 front, and that a brigade of Ames division, of the Tenth Corps, had already possession of the railroad in my rear, I moved, as ordered, down the turnpike in the direction of Petersburg, Heck- mans brigade in advance, followed by Wistars brigade, Folletts battery, and one section of Belgers battery, the other two sections of Belgers battery having been detached by order of the command- ing general. I met with no serious opposition until I had crossed Tinsberry Creek, when I found the enemy in position with artillery and infantry. I deployed Heckmans brigade, its center resting on the road, put one section of Folletts battery in the road, and with Wistars brigade in reserve moved forward until I came up with Marstons brigade, of Brooks division, my artillery and skirmishers engaging the enemy, soon driving off the enemys artillery, while Marstons brigade was getting in its proper position. The fire of the enemy becoming heavier, I moved Wistar s brigade in line on the right of Heckmans brigade. About the time when Marstons brigade was in its proper position and our skirmishers had been drawn in, preparatory to an attack on the enemys position, we were charged on by the enemy. This charge was handsomely repulsed by Heckman, who pursued, assisted as much as possible by Wistar, and drove the enemy in confusion until our line had advanced some distance beyond the church. The enemy then opened with artillery from a field-work, commanding the road on the south side of Swift Creek. I ordered up a section of Folletts battery to engage the enemys artillery, and Heckm~in to fill his cartridge-boxes. This section of artillery was soon forced to retire by the heavier fire of the enemy, after having nearly all the can- noneers and two horses of one piece disabled. About this time the general commanding left it discretionary with me whether I should continue the attack. Being convinced that, there was but a small force of the enemy left on the north side of Swift Creek, and believ- ing that no adequate advantageto compensate for the loss which would ensue from an advance to the bank of the creekcould be gained, I resolved not to continue the attack, but threw out a strong line of pickets, as directed, and bivouacked for the night in the position the division then held. One brigade of Ames division, of the Tenth Corps, came into position on the right of Wistar duting the fight, and one brigade of Turners division, of the same corps, took position in the reserve of my line at the same time, both at my request, and remained in these positi6ns during the night. On the morning of the 10th, at about 11 a. in., Ames brigade relieved Wistars, and Turners brigade relieved Heckmans, as I was ordered to withdraw my division and return to camp. This movement had scarcely been begun when I was ordered to expedite matters and march at once to the support of General Terry, who was reported hard pressed by the enemy, several miles in our rear. I sent Wistars brigade, which was the first out, at once to report to General Terry. He remained with him until nearly dark, when he was ordered back to my camp by General Gillmore, of the Tenth Corps, and arrived here safely. I followed with Heckmans brigade. As soon as it was relieved sent a staff officer ahead to report to Gen- eral Ter4ry, to ascertain where my services were needed. I received in reply the thanks of General Terry for the services I had already rendered him and the message that he needed no further assist- ance, and therefore ordered Heckman to return to camp, which he. reached without any annoyance from the enemy Page 150 I ~O & pEi~~T1oNs IN sL VA. .ANP N. C. ~dfIAP. XLVfiI. A great many of my command were affected l)y the hot sun and the (Inst and temporarily disabled. My loss in action during the expedition was as follows: Heckmans brigade, 1 officer killed, 3 officers wonnded, 12 enlisted men killed and 97 wounded; Wistars brigade, 3 enlisted men killed, 1 officer an(I 20 enlisted men wounded, an(l 2 enlisted men missing; Foiletts battery, woun(led, 6 enlisted men (1 mortally, since dead), 2 horses killed. Total loss in the division, 17 killed, 126 wounded, and 2 missing. General Heckman amid his brigade deserve special mention for their conduct on the 6th, 7th, 9th, and 10th instant. I am, sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant, G. WEITZEL, Briqadier- General, Corn rn anding. Lient. Col. N. BOWEN, A ssisiant Adjutant-General, Eighteenth A rmyj Corps. IIDQRS. DEPT. o~ VIRGINIA AND NORTH CAROLINA, U. 8. ENOINEERS OFFICE, In the Fi;eld, May 22, 1864. COLONEL: In answer to your note of yesterday I have to say the following, viy On the morning of the 16th instant my comman(l consisted of Wistars brigade of four regiments, the Eighth Maine, Twenty-first Connecticut, Ninety-eighth New York Volunteers, and Heckmamis brigade of four regiments. The Eighth Maine, Twenty-first Connecti- cut, and Ninety-eighth New York were all attached to Heckmans brigade and under his immediate command. The whole of my com- mand (eleven regiments) was stretched out in a single line with no second line amid reserve. My left rested on the main turnpike road, and my right barely lapped over the direct road to camp, which I was ordered to cover. Between my right and the river, a distance fully three-quarters of a mile, was nothing but a line of cavalry vedettes, and in front of my right and these cavalry vedettes, was a large open plain in which ~0,000 men could be massed. I repre- sented the state of affairs repeatedly during the thirty-six hours pre- ceding the attack by the enemy. I was close up to the enemys works. I was so impressed with my danger, that without any or- ders I constructed a rude breast-work of logs along my whole front on the day before the attack, and ordered telegraph wire to be stretched in front of this work and wound tightly around stumps, & c., the latter at the suggestion of General Smith. Omi the after- noon preceding the attack, General Smith,General Heckman, and my- self crept out to a farm-house which was in front of my right in the open field and about midway between the lines, and by General Sniiths orders I put 60 men in that farm-honse to hold it, to strengthen our right. The four regiments of Heckmans brigade were crushed by the attack, but there was no surprise on account of the fog as the whole line was in line of battle and prepared for the shock, having several times received warning from the farm-house. The other seven regi- ments of my line did not move until (after they had thrice repulsed the enemy with terrible slaughter, he being piled imi heaps over the telegraph wire) they were ordered to fall back. After we had as- 8umed our second position covering the direct road home, via Dr Page 151 (irtAP. XLVtiL.] SOIJTII SIDE OV THE JAMES. 1 51 Howletfs house, I advanced with four regiments in echelon with skirmishers well a(lvance(l to recover our ground, in order at least to get our wounded. My skirmish lin6 coul(i not get quite up to the positioii, because the rebels had a, line of battle too strong to attack on this side of our rude breast-work; so that we never regained our original position. I most emphatically say that my line was not forced back at all; four eleveuths of it was crushed, but the other seven-eleveuths held then I)o~1tiou until they were ordered back. The damagt~ done to Heckman s right was at once repaired by Gen- eral Smith ordering two ieounents of General Ames division under Colonel Drake to take position across the road on my right and to hold that road. This is s tad in justice to my men. I am, very respectiully your obedient servant, G. WEITZEL, Briqadier-Cene~ at U S. Volwnteers, Chief Engineer. Lient. Cul. N. BOWEN Asst. A (of. Geit., Eighteen/h Army Corps, in the Field. IN THE FIELD, May 2:3, 1864. COLONEL: In obedience to orders, I submit herewith the oper- ations of my (livision (the Second) froum the 12th to the 16th instant: I left camp with my division at (laybreak, and proceeded on the shortest road to tIme turnpike in the direction of Richumond, and, after skirmishing from the time I passed our picket-lines, and after a little artillery firing at Redwater Creek, bivouacked for the night at this side of, and near to, Proctors Creek, with skirmishers ad- vanced during the night to the banks of the creek. I was re-en- forced during the day by the Ninety-eighth New York Reginient, Colonel Wead, in order to enable me to join General Brooks line with General Turners line. Early on the 13th I moved forward, and, after skirmishing continually, bivouacked for the night in line of battle on the cross-road which strikes the turnpike at the 9-mile stone. Early on the 14th I again advanced through the dense woods, and, after quite a spirited little fight, drove tIme rebels within their works, and silenced their artillery, which bore on me, by my sharp- shooters and artillery, and bivouacked in line of battle for the night within a few hundred yards of the main line of rebel works, my sharpshooters continually engaged. On the 15th I was re-enforced by the Eighth Maine and Twenty-first Connecticut Volunteers, amid, after continual sharpshooting all day, bivouacked in the following order for the night: My whole command was in a simigle line, my left resting on the turnpike, and in the following order from left to right, viz: Wistars brigade, Twenty-first Connecticut, Eighth Maine, Ninety-eighth New York. and Heckmans brigade. The three regumemits were attached to Heckmans brigade, and were under the immediate command of General Heckman. The right of this line barely lapped over the direct and shortest road to our intrench- ments. From my right to time river, a distance of fully three-quar- ters of a mile, was a line of cavalry vedettes. In front of my right, about midway between my line and that of the enemy, in the large open field which was in front of me and the line of vedettes, was a farm-house with outbuildings. This was held by a force d~ 60 men by order of the major-general commanding the corps. My pickets were strong, and advanced close to the enemy along my whole line. Breast-works of logs had been constructed during the day by m Page 152 152 OPERATIoNs IN SE. VA. AND N. C~. [cHAP. I~Lvtn. order along my whole front, and, at the suggestion of the 1najor~ general commanding the corps, I ordered telegraph wire to be 8tretched a short distance in front of this breast-work, and wound tightly around stumps, & c. This was done, except in Heckman s front, and proved of immense service. Why lleckman did not do it I do not know; he received the order. During the night several ineffectual attempts were made by the enemy to dislodge the force in the farm-house, and Heckmans command was in line of battle sev- eral times, only a part of his command being allowed to sleep. It is also reported that Capt. J. B. Lawrence, Ninth New Jersey Volun- teers (wounded and now at Chesapeake Hospital), who commanded the force at the farm-house, reported to General Heckman that the enemy was massing troops during the night nbam his position. This was not reported to me at all. Early on Monday morning, and when the fog was so dense that one could see only a few yards, heavy firing commenced on my right, and shortly afterward along my whole front. Soon Heck- mans brigade, after a most stubborn resistance, was crushed by a very large and overwhelming force. The remaining regiments, seven in number, held their ground agaimist repeated attacks of the enemy, repulsing the latter with great slaughter. Soon after the fight began two regiments of the Second Brigade, Third Division, Tenth Army Corps (the Ninth Maine and One hundred and twelfth New York), under Col. J. C. Drake, re-enforced me, and were by me placed across the direct road on my right to check the enemy and hold that road. This was effectually done. After having per- sonally posted these regiments, while on my way to look at the rest of my line, I was ordered to fall back. I gave the order. A short time afterward I was ordered to cease falling back and again to take my old position. These orders produced a slight confusion, but were being consummated when I was again ordered to fall back to the same line with General Brooks~ Just before I went to post Colonel Drakes regiments, I ordered one of my staff officers to direct Colonel Pickett, Twenty-fifth Massachusetts Volunteers, the senior officer of Heckmans brigade left, to collect the remnants of the brigade and re- form in the open space at the Half-Way House. This was done. After we had retreated to the open space in rear of our position, I formed the Ninety-eighth New York, Twenty-first Connecticut, and Eighth Maine in one brigade, and placed Colonel Wead, Ninety-eighth New York Volunteers, in comm~mnd of it, and ordered it, with the remnants of the Ninth New Jersey on its left, to advance again. This was done and checked all pursuit on the part of the rebels. A short time after this I was ordered to move to the right and cover the short and direct road to our intrenchments. This I did, forming my whole command, now consisting of thirteen regimenP, in two lines, so as to cover the road effectually. In the afternoon four regiments of my first line were advanced in echelon to feel the~ enemy and try to regain our original position, and get off our wounded. The skir- mishers were well advanced, but were stopped on this side of my breast-works by a large force of rebels in line of battle. After re- moving all the wound6d we could find these regiments fell back to the position they had left. Toward evening the army started for home, my command bringing up the rear and suffering not the least molestation from the enemy. We reached camp about 9 oclock. I saw a great deal of good conduct on part of officers and men during these operations. Major Converse, of the Eleventh Connect Page 153 CHAP. XLVII!.] ~OtJTH sIbR OF THE ~fAME~. 1 ~ cut Volunteers, an inspector-general on my staff, and L~euts. ~E. E. Graves and H. B. Fitch. my aides, particularly distinguished them- selves; also Lieutenant-Colonel Boynton, Eighth Maine Volunteers. He was commanding his regiment, although severely wounded, when I ordered him to relinquish his command. Colonel Drake and his command rendered me the most important service. My aggregate loss in killed, wounded, and missing was as already specified in previous detailed reports, being 1,334. The following is an extract from General Wistars official report: Capt. Edwin E. Bedee and Second Lieut. James W. Saunders, both of Twelfth New Hampshire Volunteers, with some men of same regiment, for some time loaded and fired one gun (abandoned) of Battery F, First Rhode Island Artillery. They re- port one of the officers of that battery as lying concealed in a ditch during the time. The same officers limbered up a 20-pounder Parrott gun, one of Ashbys battery, deserted by its gunners, and moved it by hand some distance to the rear on the turnpike, where they turned it over to some men of the battery with instructions to take it to the rear, which was neglected and tbe piece abandoned, owing, as they alleged, to the want of horses. The guns lost were abandoned without spiking. Captain Barker, commanding Twelfth New Hampshire Volunteers, had previously thrown forward sharpshooters, who dispersed and drove away the enemys sharp- shooters who attacked these guns. I am, sir, very respectfully, your ob~dient servant G. WEITZEL, Brigadier- General, Commending Division. Lieut. Col. N. BOWEN, Asst. A6~jt. Gen., Eighteenth Army Corps. HDQRS. DEPT. OF VIRGINIA AND NORTH CAROLINA, U. S. ENGINEERS OFFICE, In the Field, Miay 27, 1864. COLONEL: In addition to my previous report of the action on the 16th instant, I desire to submit the following, viz: While I was posting the regiments under Colonel Drake on the road on the right, which had been uncovered by the crushing of Heckmans brigade, the officer in charge of the skirmishers on our right flank reported the enemy moving to our rear and parallel to the road. Several persons were struck at the same time by shots fired from that direction. I at once reported to the major-general commanding the corps this movement of the enemy, and shortly afterward I received the order to fall back on the same line with General Brooks, who had retired. I am, sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant G. WEITZEL, Lieut. Col. N. BOWEN, Brigadier-General and Chief Engineer. Asst. Adjt. Gem, Eighteenth Army Corps. No. 62. Reports of Brig. Gen. Charles A. Heelcman, U. S. Army, command ing First Brigade, of operations May 67. HDQRS. FIRST BRIG., SECOND DIV., 18TH ARMY CORPS, In the Field, May 6, 1864. SIR: I have the honor to report that pursuant to orders from headquarters Eighteenth Army Corps, I marched with my brigade Page 154 O1Ef~At1oNs IN s~. VA. ANP N. C. tgnAm XLVItI. compo~ed of the Ninth New Jersey, Twenty-third, Txventy-fiftii, and Twenty-seventh Massachusetts Regiments, on a reconnaissance P Port Waithall Jnnction, on the Petersburg and Richmond Railroad. Left camp at 4 p. in., and, after passing the pickets of this camp, skirmishers and flankers were deployed, and the column proceeded with great caution. Met with no opposition (save a few pickets) until my arrival at Barnes plantation, where we met the enemy in force. Their skirmishers were thrown forward and their line of battle was formed behind a fence on the edge of the woods. Their forces could be distinctly seen moving to my right and left. After making a proper disposition of my force to prevent a flank move- ment, I moved forward; shots were exchange(l between skirmishers, when a tremendous volley was poured into us from behind the fence and from the woods, which was replied to vigorously by ~s with artillery and infantry. Upon being assured that at least two bri- gades of the enemy were opposing me in front, and as a general en- gagement was not desired, I engaged them for a time and retired in perfect order, the enemy keeping up a heavy fire, officers and men being perfectly cool and obeying every order with as much precision as if at dress parade. Never did troops behave more nobly. II re- gret to state that owing to the limited number of stretch ers allowed my command, i~ retiring I was compelled to leave a portion of my killed on the field to save the wounded. No ambulances were sent with my command, and not until after I had sent for them from the field did I have the transportation, for the woundedmeeting the ambulances on the road. Our loss was as follows: Enlisted men. R2giments. Killed. wounded. 9th New Jersey Volunteers 4 30 25th Massachusetts Volunteers 3 14 $th Massachusetts Volunteers 1 16 Total 8 60 I am, colonel, very respectfully, your obedient servant, C. A. HECKMAN, Brigadier- General, Commanding. Lient. Col. N. BOWEN, Asst. AUUt. Gen., Eighteenth Army Corps. HDQRS. FIRST BRIG., SECOND Div., 18TH ARMY CORPS, In the Field, May 7, 1864. SIR : In obedience to orders, headquarters Eighteenth Army Corps, I started from camp with my brigade at 9.30 a. in., and pro- ceeded in the direction of Port Walthall Junction, for the purpose of acting in conjunction with a force moving toward the same point on another route. After passing our pickets, skirmishers and flank- ers were deployed as on the previous day, and we advanced without opposition to the ground which I occupied on the 6th; found the enemy occupying their old position. After making a proper disp Page 155 soUTh 81DF~ OF TIW JAM1~N. XLVIII.1 I t~ sition of my force, and while waiting for information from Gen- eral Brooks, the enemy opened upon us with artillery, having l)erfect range of the Ninth New Jersey Regiment. By moving them slightly to the right the enemy lost the range. I placed my artillery in position, and after firing a few rounds succeeded in blowing up their caisson, which silenced them emitirely. Upon re- ceiving a message from General Brooks I made arrangements to attack the enemys right at the same time that General Brooks attacked them in front, but finding the enemy were in too large force on my left to admit of niy a(Ivaiicing. and as it was very important to hold ~he i)O5iti~n I occupied, and being within easy range of time enemy, I deemed it most l)rlm(leiit to hold my position, and at the same time engage them with. my artillery, which I did with telling effect. Upon leariming that General Brooks had accom- plished his object aim(l was retirino I continued firimmo, and in corn- l)hiammce with orders made my arrangements to return to camp. Upon learning that Captain West and party, who had umidertakeim aim expeditioii, had imot returimed, I sent ont parties for them amid held my position until their retmirim, when we returned to camp, arriving at 7.30 p. m. Time sun beihg oppressively warm my men suffered very much, haviimg nearly 100 cases of sunstroke. Our loss durimig the action was as follows: One officer of Ninth New Jersey Vol- unteers, wounded; 1 officer of Twenty-seventh Massachimsetts, wounded; 1 enlisted umaim of Ninth New Jersey Volunteers, killed; 9 enlisted men of Ninth New Jersey Volunteers, wounded; 4 en- listed men of Twenty-sevetitli Massachusetts, wounded. I am, very respectfully, your obedient servant, C. A. HECKMAN, Brigadier- General, Commanding. Lient. Col. N. BOWEN Asst. Adjt. Gen., Eighteenth Army qorps. No. 63. Report of Gol. Josiah Piclcett, Twenty-fifth Massachusetts Infantry, of operations May 910. HDQRS. 25TH MASSACHUSETTS VET. VOL. INFTY., In the Field, May 18, 1864. CAPTAIN: In accordance with orders from brigade headquarters, the Twenty-fifth Regiment left camp on the 9th instant at 5.30 a. in., moved in the direction of Petersburg without serious opposition till 4 p. in., and until withimi about 5 miles from Petersburg; there line of battle was formed, and I moved up, supported by the Twenty- third Massachusetts Regiment, and with the Twenty-seventh Mas- sachusetts on my right, the enemy using their artillery~ and con- stantly shelling us. I had advanced about a mile when the enemy was met in force; I opened fire and became closely engaged; the enemy finding our fire very severe, charged our line in heavy force. I reserved my fire until the last moment, and then opened upon them, firing right oblique. It was impossible for men to stand against such fire, and they broke and fled, leaving their dead and wounded upon the field. Immediately their artillery opened a fierce and destine Page 156 [(JHAP. XLVIIT. 150 oI~RATIoNs fl~ Sin. VA. A~I~ ~. ~IX tive fire; they had been punished so severely that they did not attempt again to force our lines. Pickets were thrown to the front, and I sheltered my men in the woods, and prepared to bivouac for the night. We were so near the enemys lines we could not build fires, and though expecting an attack during the night, were not disturbed by any movements in our front. On the 10th instant, about 11 a. in., the men being very much exhausted by the excessive heat, the severe fighting of the previous day, and being out of rations, we were relieved and marched to the rear to obtain a little rest, and that the men might have an opportunity to make coffee, but instead of so doing we continued our march to camp, reaching it about 4 p. m. My loss on the 9th amounted to 1 commissioned officer and 11 enlisted men killed; 2 commissioned officers and 47 enlisted men wounded. First Lieutenant Upton, in command of Company I, was killed. In the loss of this officer the regiment and service has lost one whose place it will be difficult to fill; young, brave, and patri- otic, he was among the first to offer his services to his country, enter- ing into all the trials and hardships of a soldiers life with cheerful- ness of disposition and bouyancy of spirits which won for him the respect and confidence of his superior officers; prompt in the per- formance of and attentive to all his duties, kind and affectionate to all under his command, he won the respect and love of all who knew him. He met a soldiers death, dying at the head of his command as victory crowned our efforts. I inclose a list of killed and wounded with names, nature of wounds, & c. * I have the honor to be, very respectfully, your obedient servant, J. PICKETT, Colonel Twenty-fifth Massachusetts Vet. Vol. Infty. Capt. W. H. ABEL, Assi. Adjt. Gen., Second Div., 18th Army corps. No. 64. Reports of Lient. Uol. Orson Moulton, Twenty-fifth Massachusetts Infantry, of operations May 616. HDQRS. 25TH MASSACHUSETTS VET. VOL. INFTY. In the Field, May 11, 1864. CAPTAIN: I have the honor to report that in compliance with orders from brigade headquarters, the Twenty-fifth Regiment left cam p on the afternoon of May 6, at about 3p. in. Marching rapidly the distance of about 4 miles in the direction of the Petersburg and Richmond Railroad, the enemy were discovered in force, posted in front of said road and on the left of the Walthall branch road. Forming in line of battle and marching into an open field on the left of the Twenty-seventh Massachnsetts, we advanced a short dis- tance to the front, then formed double column at half distance, passed the Twenty-seventh, and deployed into line of battle. While in this position the enemy opened a severe fire upon us. At this juncture I broke my three right companies to the rear into column to allow the Ninth New Jersey Volunteers to pass between my com- mand and the Twenty-seventh Massachusetts. I had fired but a * Embodied in revised statement, p. 16 Page 157 CHAP. XLVIII.] SOUTH SIDE OF THE JAMES. 157 couple of rounds per man when this movement took place, and on its completion I was compefled to cease firing. Shortly after I re- ceived orders to move the right wing to the rear and support the artillery, of which we had one section. The left soon joined the right, and I received orders to move to the rear. Moving to the rear cross- roads just in rear of the field upon which the action occurred, I formed line of battle and thus remained till the ambulances with the wounded had passed. I then moved in the direction of camp, reaching there about 10 p. m. My loss during the engagement was 3 killed and 14 wounded, 2. of the latter mortally. I was compelled to leave my dead upon the field. I have the honor to be, very respectfully, your obedient servant, 0. MOULTON, Liemle nant - Colonel, Commanding Regiment. Capt. W. H. ABEL, Assistant Adjutant- General, Heckrnans Brigade. IIDQRS. 25TH MASSAcHUSETTS VET. VOL. INFTY., In the Field, May 19, 1864. CAPTAIN: In accordance with orders from brigade headquarters I left camp with my regiment on the morning of the 12th instant at 5.30 oclock. Moving in the direction of the Richmond turnpike about 3 miles, the brigade formed line of battle in a belt of timber and facing a large field. Remaining in this position about one-half an hour we moved on the Richmond turnpike. Getting on to that road and marching in a southerly direction a short distance, brigade line was formed behind a section of Relgers battery, which was engaged ~with the enemy. Our next position was in line in an open field a short distance north of Proctors Creek; toward night moved across the field into the woods and remained there in line all night, throwing out one company on picket. 13th instant moved in a southerly direction upon the Richmond road, crossed Proctors Creek, and went into position in the woods about a mile from the enemys intrenehments near Drewrys Bluff, throwing out pickets. On the 14th instant, soon after daylight, nioved up .to the front of the enemys works and formed line in the woods; had one company on the skir- mish line; there was no general engagement this day, though the skirmish line was closely and constantly engaged. On the 15th threw up log breast-works immediately in front of our position; had two companies on the skirmish line this day. After dark was relieved in this position by the Twenty-first Connecticut, and moved my regi- ment to the right a short distance. During the night my men were aroused and in line five times, the enemy being almost constantly demonstrating along the front of our lines. On the morning of the 16th instant, about 5 oclock, the enemy in force moved down upon my front heavily supported by artillery, and under cover of a den~e fog made a furious attack. I reserved my fire uiitil they were within close range, then delivered it with telling effect, causing their colors to drop three successive times and partially checking their advance. While being thus engaged in the front word was brought to me that our right had been turned, that the Niiith New Jersey, Twenty- ~YQi4th, aTh4 Twenty-third s~ch~~tt~ iu~d b~ri QverpowQvQd b Page 158 158 OPERATIONS IN SE. VA. AND N. C. [CHAP. XLVIII. the enemy and retired, also that the regiment on my left had given way and that the rebels in h~vy force Nvere coming in on my right -and had already gained my rear. I immediately faced the regiment by the rear rank, (lelivered what few remaining rounds of ammuni- tion there were left, then ordered a charge, which temporarily checked theni, but owing to their superior numbers did not succeed in breaking their lines; it however gave me an opportunity to face my regtiment by the right flank and marched them to the rear. I was compelled to leave my dead and all my wounded who could not help themselves off on the field. General Heckinan and Colonel Lee having been taken prisoners, Colonel Pickett took command of the brigade. I was by him ordered to form my men in line a short distance in rear of the battle-field, supporting a battery ; shortly afterward moved to the right and rear, holding the approaches to the Richmond and Petersburg turnpike. About 4 p. m. was ordered to return to camp, which was reached at 9 oclock. In concluding this report, I have to mention in terms of highest praise the conduct of both officers and men during the entire time of their absence froig camp. All the hardships incident to four days and nights nuder a drenching rain, without shelter of any kind, so close to the enemys lines that but once could fires be built, almost constantly nuder fire and some part of the regiment on picket or skirmishing all the tiume, were borne without a murmur or complaint; and their behavior on the morning of the 16th, when out-flanked aiid surrounded by the overwhelming forces of the enemy, they kept up a deadly fire upon them until ammunition was expended; then finding all support gone, their desperate but unsuccessful charge in the vain hope to break the rebel lines, this failing, still maintaining their line and awaiting orders, their marching under a galling fire without confusion by the flank to the rear, merits and receives my utmost commendation. I would state also that Colonel Pickett, though sick a.nd unable to per- form duty, was present with time regiment on the morning of the 16th instant aiid remained until the close of the engagment. I inclose list of killed, wounded, and missing. * 0. MOULTON, Lieutenant- Colonel. Capt. W. H. ABEL, Asst. Adjt. Gen., First Brig., Second Div., 18th A. C. No. 65. Report of Lieut. Will jam Daley, Twenty-fifth Massachusetts In fantry, of o1)erations May 1415. CAMP TWENTY-FIFTH REGT. MASSACHUSETTS VOLS., Cobbs Hill, Va., May 24, 1864. .CAPTAIN: Having been called on for a report while on duty on the night of the 14th instant, I beg respectfully to state that about 7 p. m. I relieved Company B, Twenty-fifth Massachusetus Volun- teers, doing picket duty near Drewrys Bluff. There were no shots exchanged after my command had been posted till between 11.30 and 2 a. in., when the enemy opened a sharp fire, which was replied to ~ j~U4bOdie(1 in revised statement, p. lQ Page 159 CHAP. XLVIII.] SOUTH SIDE OF TIlE JAMES. 159 and continued for more than half an hour. Firing Ceased until near 4 a. in.; then a brisk fire was opened, which was kept up to 6 a. ni., when I was relieved by Lieutenant ONeill, of this regiment. Captain, I am, respectfully, your obedient servant, WM. DALEY, First Lieut., Corndg. Co. K, Twenty-Fifth Regt. Mass. Vols. Capt. W. H. ABEL, Asst. Adjt. Gem., First Brigade, Second Division. No. 66. Report of Lieut. James ONeill, Twentp-fifth Massachusetts In fantry, of operations May 1516. CAMP 25TH REGT. MASSACHUSETTS INFTY. VOLS., Cobbs Hill, Va., May 24, 1864. CAPTAIN: I have the honor to submit the following report as one of the officers in command of the pickets in front of Heckmans brigade on the night of the 15~h and morning of the 16th of May, near Drewrys Bluff: I posted the picket, under the direction of Captain Abel, on the brow of a hill in an open field in front of the brigade line in rifle- pits 20 paces apart, which were dug by my pickets that night, as the old line of pits occupied by our men before were so low under the brow that they were comparatively useless. When I reached the- right of our brigade line I ascertained that we had a post in an old barn to the right and front of our line some 80 rods. I took a ser- geant and corporal and went to the barn, but could find no one there. On leaving the barn I received a volley from the enemy, not more than 20 paces from me. At the same time the enemys cavalry charged on a house on our picket-line occupied by a company of the Ninth New Jers~y. This caused a general alarm all along the whole picket-line. This was about 10 p. in. After that, scattering shots occasionally were exchanged until about 3.30 a. in. of the 16th, when there was a general assault all along the picket-lines. Your obedient servant, JAMES ONEILL, Second Lient., Co. E, Twenty-fifth Mass. Vet. Vol. Infty. Capt. W. H. ABEL, Asst. Adji. Gem., First Brig., Second Division. No. 67. Report of Capt. Henry C. Dwight, Twenty-seventh Massachusetts Infantry, of operations May 1516. CAMP TWENTY-SEVENTH MASSACHUSET~tS VOLS., Cobbs Hill, Va., May 23, 1864. CAPTAIN: I have the honor to submit the following report of the duty performed by the companies (A and B) of the Twenty-seventh Massachusetts Volunteers as pickets during the night of the 14th instant Companies A and B were detailed on picket guard Saturday p. in., ~ o\dock, and reported Licut, Qol, W. Q. 13~rtholornow Page 160 160 OPERATIONS IN SE. VA. AND N. C. [CHAP. XLVIII. Twenty-seventh Massachusetts Volunteers, commanding picket guard, at 7 oclock, on the road in front of line of battle of bri- gade, and directly in front of Twenty-seventh Massachusetts Vol- unteers. Company B was deployed as skirmishers, marching directly to the front, nearly to the position occupied by our skirmishers dur- ing the day. They then were assembled, 3 men on each picket post. They remained during the night without firing or being fired upon until daylight, Sunday a. m., when they were deployed, and fired uiitil relieved by a company of Twenty-seventh Massachusetts Vol- unteers. The right of this line of pickets was nearly opposite the center of Twenty-seventh Massachusetts Volunteers. This company was commanded by Second Lieut. Justus Lyman, who remained with pickets during the night. Company A was the reserve (com- manded by myself); was posted nearly opposite the left of Twenty- fifth Massaphnsetts Volunteers and a few rods in rear of picket-line of Twenty-fifth Massachusetts Volunteers. This line of pickets was fired upon by the enemy at about 12 oclock, when II moved my company a short distance to the rear, occupying ground more favor- able for the pickets to rally upon the reserve, and the pickets having retreated a short distance the reserve would be too near the pickets. The firing was light and of short duration. At intervals during the night a few shots were exchanged. At daylight Sunday a. m. my company was ordered to fall back to the road and remain there as reserve, which it did until about 7 a. in., when it was relieved ~nd rejoined the regiment. I am, captain, very respectfully, your obedient servant, HENRY C. DWIGHT, Captain Co. A, Twenty-seventh Massachusetts Vols. Capt. W. H. ABEL, Assistant Adjutant- General. No. 68. Report of Capt. Peter S. Railey, Twenty-seventh Massachusetts In fantry, of operations May 1516. CAMP TWENTY-SEVENTH MASSAChUSETTS VOLS., C~obbs Hilt, Va., May 23, 1864. CAPTAIN: I have the honor to submit the following report of the duty performed by Company D, Twenty-seventh Massachusetts Vol- unteers, as pickets during the night of the 15th instant: Company D was detailed as picket Sunday p. in., between 10 and 11 oclock, and ordered to report to Lieutenant-Colonel Stewart, Ninth New Jersey Volunteers. I did not find Colonel Stewart at the place designated; reported to you and was sent to the picket- line to Lieutenant ONeill, Twenty-fifth Massachusetts V6lunteers, who gave me instructions as received from Lieutenant-Colonel Stew- art to run my line from the right of the Twenty-third diagonallyto a point of woods, connecting there with Eighth Maine, who con- tinued the line nearly to the James River. While posting my men we were fired into by the pickets of the Eighth Maine, wounding 3 men. While trying to explain to them we were friends, & c., re ~ vQlley from ~ company of rebel infantry, who deploye Page 161 CHAP. XLVIII.] SOUTH SIDE OF THE JAMES. 161 from the woods in front, upon which I ~~etired with my command to the edge of the woods, where I established my posts. Having re- ceived orders about 12 p. m. to advance my line, I sent out 6 men at a time, who dug rifle-pits and occupied them. They were nearly all completed, when we were charged upon by rebel cavalry and forced back to the woods, the rebels following and cutting. us off from our regiment and brigade. There was little or no firing on my right, the Eighth Maine firing only two shots. Neither did they report to me as seeing anything unusual. There were several volleys fired by the Ninth New Jersey, stationed at a house in front of the center of the picket-line; also some on the left. I did not see or hear any- thing that would lead me to 5U~~O5C the rebels were massing troops in front. I am, captain, very respectfully, your obedient servant, P. S. BAILEY, Captain, Twenty-seventh Mass. Vols., Comdg. Co. D. Capt. W. H. ABEL, Assistant Adjutant- General. No. 69. Report of Lient. 7o1. James Stewart, Jr., Ninth New Jersey In fantry, of operations May 1516. CHESAPEAKE HOSPITAL, JIlay 26, 1864. CAPTAIN: As general officer of the night for May 15, I have the honor to submit the following report: At early twilight I had two companies each to report to me from the following regiments: Ninety-eighth New York, Eighth Maine, and Twenty-first Connecticut. With these I relieved the line of skirmishers in front of the position held by Heckmans brigade during the day. I was then furnished with four companies from Heckmans brigade, three of which were distributed in the rifle-pits in front of that brigade and connecting with ruy first line of pickets on the left. Most of the rifle-pits were dug by my men early that night by order of General Heckman. I also had one company of about 50 men, under Captain Lawrence, of the Ninth New Jersey, posted at a house situated about 400 yards in front of the Ninth New Jersey, which was on the right of the brigade. The picket-line extended from the house to the right, and, I believe, to the James River, and was held by one company of the Eighth Maine and some colored cavalry. These pickets were not under my directions, but I informed myself as to their position, & c. Everything remained quiet until about 10 p. in., when the enemys cavalry charged upon the post held by Captain Lawrence, but that officer with his com- mand gave them an effective volley, which sent them back in coil- fusion. As soon as I heard the firing, I visited the house and learned the particulars from Captain Lawrence. About this time it was becoming quite foggy, but the captain informed me that he could see them quite plainly, and judged their force to be fully 100. I then placed the captain with his men in the most adVantageous posi- tion to repel an attack, and immediately reported the circumstance to General Heckinan. Soon afterward I was furnished with a com- 11 R RvoL XXXVI, PT I Page 162 162 OPERATIONS IN SE. VA. AND N. C. [CHAP. XLVIII. pany of colored cavalry, which I posted on the extreme right, the only position that they could take, as the rifle-pits which we had dug iu front of the brigade would have prevented their advance. The enemy gave us but little peace during the night, feeling of our lines frequently, and causing three general alarms. The last was made about 3 a. m. of the 16th, and was caused, the pickets said, by squads of rebels (2 or 3) creeping up to our lines at several points. During this alarm I visited the whole line again, cautioning the men not to fire at supposed objects, but to be sure it was an enemy before they fired. I had but just reached my regiment when the whole picket-line opened fire. I at once started for the front and met my pickets coming in, who reported that the enemy were advancing in force. The whistling of balls soon convinced me of the truth of what they said. I at once joined my regiment, which was already in line and awaiting the onset of the enemy. I have nothing further to report, as about this time my tour of duty terminated very abruptly so far as the pickets were concerned. I am gratified to add, however, that my guards all returned to their regiments, except those killed or very severely wonuded. Noiie of the others were captured by the enemy. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, JAS. STEWART, JR., Lieut. Cot. Ninth New Jersey Volunteers. Capt. W. H. ABEL, Assistant Adjutant- General. No. 70. Report of Col. Griffin i. Stedman, Jr., Eleventh Connecticut In fantry, Second Brigade, of operations May 1216. HDQRS. ELEVENTH REGIMENT CONNECTICUT VoLS.. Hay 17, 1864. SIR: I have the honor to report that the Eleventh Regiment Connecticut Volunteers marched with Wistars brigade on the morning of Thursday, May 12, and accompanied the brigade dur- ing the movement toward Drewrys Bluff. During the advance skirmishers were at times thrown out, relieving those of other regi- ments. On the morning of Monday, May 16, they occupied their position in the brigade line when the enemy attacked General Heckmans right. No shot was fired by the regiment until the enemy charged iii line of battle their immediate front, when, opening fire, the ad- vance of the rebels was checked, and their line, after about an hour, was driven back. At this time, and within a few moments after the regiment ceased firing, an order reached me from General Wistar to fall back, facing my regiment about. I reluctantly obeyed, and marched through thick woods to a road a quarter of a mile to the rear. At this point I was was ordered to advance and reoccupy the breast-works. Moving without delay, the regiment returned, and, under a heavy fire from the rebel line which occupied the fortifications, took its old position. No other regiment of the brigade was there, nor could any Union troops be seen along th Page 163 CHAP. XLVIII.] SOUTH SIDE OF THE JAMES. 163 whole line to the right or left. A rebel battery enfiladed the reg. ~ment from the left, and after twenty minntes I saw a movement on the part of the rebels indicating an intention to charge in front, and saw a column filing into the road in the position before occupied by the Second New Hampshire Volunteers, and within 30 yards of my right flank. Finding myself unsupported, and in dan- ger of annihilation or capture, I faced the regiment about and marched to the rear, constantly obliquing to the right to avoid the enemy, who were following the movement with yells. Debouching upon the open field, the regiment retook its position in the brigade, and continued with it during the day, reaching camp between 8 and 9 p.m. I respectfully ask the attention of the brigadier-general command- ing to the fact that the regiment, more than two-thirds of whom were recruits, marched faced to the rear rank to retreat twice through a wide section of dense woods and thicket under a very heavy fire, and that alone and unsupported they reoccupied the old position under the fire of a large bo dyof the enemy behind earth- works, and accomplished all without losing their formation or be- coming confused. During the second engagement the flag-staff was broken. The regiment lost throughout the day 14 killed, 54 wounded, and 112 missing, most of whom are supposed to have been killed or wounded during the second engagement, and left upon the field. Those only are reported as killed or wounded in regard to whom a certainty exists. Two officers were wounded, 1 of whom is a prisoner; 1 other is missing, supposed to be wounded and a prisoner. Respectfully, your obedient servant, GRIFFIN A. STEDMAN, JR., Colonel, Comdg. Eleventh Connecticut Volunteers. Capt. S. R. REYNOLDS, Assistant Adjutant-General. No. 71. Report of ~Japt. George E. Ashby, Battery E, Third New York Light Artillery, of operations May 1216. HDQRS. BATTERY E, THIRD NEW YORK ARTILLERY, in the Field, Va., 3Iay 25, 186.4. SIR: I have the honor to submit the following report of the p art taken in the advance of the army on the 12th May, 1864, by the bat- tery under my command, which constituted the Reserve Artillery of the Eighteenth Corps: Left camp at Cobbs Hill, Va., May 12, 1864, at daybreak and marched to the Petersburg and Richmond turnpike. After a halt of an hour, the battery was ordered back within the line to camp nutil further orders. Next morning (13th May) ordered up to the front, which reached about noon. The battery was placed in posi- tion in front of the Half-Way House, and on the right of the pike. Afterward sent the section of Lieutenant Fuller to take position in the road. This having been done, fire was opened from both sec Page 164 164 OPERATIONS IN SE. VA. AND N. C. [CHAP. XLVIII. tions at 3 p. m. upon a work which the enemy had thrown up a mile distant and on the road. They replied with two 12-pounders, and knowing the ground, had good range upon the battery, but did little damage. After an hours firing succeeded in silencing their guns, and at dark ceased firing. Next morning about 9 oclock the battery was ordered to a position near the line of works which the enemy had left during the night, and opened fire on an earth-work which was about 1,000 yards distant. The enemy replied with a heavy fire of artillery and musketry. After firing an hour or more, the guns were ordered to be moved up under the .breast-work. The enemy opened a field battery from the road directly in front of our position. With the aid of Battery D, First U. S. Artillery, they were soon compelled to retire with these guns, and the guns of the fort were also silenced. I kept up a slow fire during the afternoon, and the enemy only replied with an occasional shot. During the day several men and horses were wounded. At dark received orders to retire for the night. On Sunday, 15th, resumed my position a~ daybreak. The battery lay all the day under a galling fire of musketry without firing a shot. Several horses were killed and wounded. At night received orders t6 retire at dark and resume my position before daybreak on Mon- day morning. Shortly after resuming my position on Monday morning, 16th, the enemy opened upon me with a heavy fire of artillery. I immedi- ately replied with all my guns. Under cover of this fire and the heavy fog, a large force of the enemy advanced up the road and charged on the battery. At the same time their artillery ceased firing, and changing the direction of mypieces, I ordered them to be charged with canister, which was poured into the column of the enemy. As they advanced the first charge was repulsed, but they only retired behind the line of breast-works, from wh ic hthe y poured continuous volleys of musketry. The fog and smoke was so dense that they could not be seen, and their exact position was doubtful. Very soon they again charged. As long as the canister held out I used it, and when it gave out ordered percussion shell to be used. At this time I was struck in the head bypart of a case-shot, and carried to the rear. The chiefs of sections, Lieutenants Fuller and Mowers, used their guns until the enemy were in their midst and on the left flank of the battery. They then ordered them to be lim- bered to move off the ground; only one was saved. The horses belonging to the others were shot down as they were driven up, the guns being deeply mired and the enemy close upon them. The men were ordered to save themselves, which most did by retiring through the swamp or up the road in a shower of bullets. Lieutenant Fuller was shot through the arm and leg, but succeeded in escaping. I would remark that a verbal order from the commanding general for the battery to fall back, instead of being carried to the guns was carried by the orderly to the caissons, which were parked at the Half-Way House, and thus the opportunity for retiring safely was lost. I cannot forbear to express my satisfaction at the steadiness, deter- mination, and courage with which the men of my command stood to their guns until ordered to retire. My thanks are due to Lienten- ants Fuller and Mowers, commanding sectiofis, for the efficient manner in which they handled their sections. I have to report a loss in killed, wounded, and missing of 2 commissioned officers an Page 165 Caxp. XLVIII.] SOUTH SIDE OF THE JAMES. 165 14 enlisted men. Forty-four horses were killed and wounded. Three guns and two limbers were lost. My command being disabled, was ordered within the line of intrenchments. I report the following expenditure of ammunition during the three days, viz: Rounds. Solid shot 53 Shell: Time fuse 229 Percussion fuse 29 Case-shot 56 Canister 52 Total 419 I have the honor to be, very respectfully, your obedient servant, GEO. E. ASHBY, Captain Battery E, Third New York Artillery. Lieut. Col. N. BOWEN, Assistant Adjutant-General. No. 72. Reports of Brig. Gen. Edward W. Hinks, U. S. Army, command ing Third Division, of operations May 518. HDQRS. THIRD DIVISION, EIGHTEENTH ARMY CORPS, City Point, Va., May 13, 1864. GENERAL: In obedience to your order of this date, which was re- ceived at City Point during my absence to the front superintending the construction of works opposite Point of Rocks, I have the honor to submit the following brief report of my operations since landing at City Point on the 5th of May, instant.: As you are already aware, the First and Twenty-second R~gi- ments U. S. Colored Troops, with two sections of Choates battery, were landed at Wilsons Wharf; the Tenth and Thirty-seventh U. S. Colored Troops, with two sections of Howells battery, were landed at Fort ow a an, and Duncans brigade, with one section of Choates and one section of Howells battery, were landed at City Point, all on the 5th instant, a member of my staff having been left at Wilsons Wharf to lay out and superintend the construction of proper earth-works. Immediately upon landing at City Point earth- works were commenced, the construction of which has since been pushed with all our available force, and is now progressing well. F our heavy guns, viz, one 30-pounder, two 20-pounder Parrotts, and one 8-inch howitzer, which were received on Sunday, the 8th, have since been mounted. On Sunday evening, 8th instant, Captain Angels battery of six 3-inch ordnance guns reported for duty, and the Thirty-seventh Regiment U. S. Colored Troops was withdrawn from Fort Pow- hatan and placed in the works at City Point; also Captain Dollard, Company D, Second U. S. Colored Cavalry, reported~ for duty. On Monday, 9th instant, with 1,800 infantry, one battery, and the com- pany of cavalry, I made a reconnaissance toward Petersburg, upo Page 166 166 OPERATIONS IN SE. VA. A~D N. C. [CHAP. XLVIII. the river road to Spring Hill, and returned to the middle road, so- called, and pushed up to within about 4 miles of Petersburg, draw- ing the fire of the enemys batteries; after which I returned to City Point, arriving at 11 oclock at night. On Tuesday, 10th instant, went personally to Fort Powhatan and directed the construction of earth-works. Learned that Clingmans brigade, three regiments of infantry, and a battery of six guns came down from Petersburg to within 2 miles of the works at City Point, and returned by the river road. Two companies of Thirteenth New York Heavy Artillery, under command of Captain Pendrell, and a detachment of 93 men of the Third Pennsylvania Heavy Artillery, under command of Captain von Schilling, reported for duty at City Point. Thursday, 12th instant, proceeded with two regiments of Dun- cans brigade, one section of Choates battery, and one section of Angels battery, to a point in the bight of the Appomattox River, nearly opposite the Point of Rocks, and directed the construction of a work, which is now progressing favorably, in charge of Colonel Duncan. The work when finished will consist of two innettes con- nected by an infantry parapet, or curtain, of about 150 yards in length, with flanks of like parapets running toward the river. The position is a very strong one, and with the assistance of gun-boats on the flanks may be held by the force now there against greatly superior numbers. Communication with the river is established directly to the rear of the works, and the garrison may be easily in- creased by throwing troops across the river. I am, general, very respectfully, your obedient servant, EDW. W. HINKS, Brigadier- General, U. S. Volunteers. Maj. Gen. B. F. BUTLER, Comdg. Dept. of Virginia and North Carolina, in the Field. HDQRS. THIRD DIVISION, EIGHTEENTH ARMY CORPS City Point, Va., JlIaj 22, 1864. MAJOR: I have the honor to submit the following report of my operations since May 13, 1864: Regular daily communication by water is now established be- tween all the points occupied by my division. The works in the bight of the river opposite Point of Rocks have nearly reached completion, and the position is one of considerable strength. Col- onel Stafford has been relieved of the command at Fort Powhatan, and ordered with his regiment to Wilsons Wharf. Colonel Kiddoo, commanding Twenty -second U. S. Colored Troops, has bean sta- tioned at Fort Powliatan. A detachment of the Third Peunsy]- vania Heavy Artillery, commanded by Capt. F. von Schilling, has been stationed at Fort Powhatan. I have now mounted at Fort Powhatan three 20-pounder Parrotts and one 4j-inch siege gun, and one additional gun, 32-pounder Rodman, niounted on my works at City Point. On the 16th instant a foraging party of 20 men, under the command of Lieutenant Cunningham, of the Thirty-seventh U. S. Colored Troops, sent out without orders from these head- quarters, were attacked by a largely superior force, with the loss of 1 killed, 4 wounded, and 2 captured. An investigation of the whol Page 167 CHAP. XLVIII.] SOITTH SIDE OF THE JAMES. 167 matter by a military commission is now in progress. The question- able behavior of Lieutenant Cunningham, Thirty-seventh U. S. Colored Troops, in this affair stan(ls in strange contrast with the soldierly behavior of Sergehnt Frazier, Fifth U. S. Colored Troops. On the morning of the 18th instant Colonel Duncans command at Spring Hill was attacked by the enemy with a force consisting of about 600 cavalry, two companies of infantry, and two 12- pounder guns. After a brisk cannonade of thirty minutes dura- tion the enemy were compelled to retire, apparently with consider- able loss. Our loss was 2 slightly wounded. I am, major, very respectfully, your obedient servant, EDW. W. HINKS, Brigadier- General, Commanding. Maj. R. S. DAVIS, A.s~st. Adjt. Gem., Dept. of Va. and N. C., in the Field. HDQRS. THIRD DIvISION, EIGHTEENTH ARMY CORPS, City Point, Va., Miay 22, 1864. GENERAL: I have the honor to report that between 5 and 6 oclock yesterday p. m I received a dispatch in the following words: HDQRS. FIRST BRIG., THIRD DIv., EIGHTEENTH ARMY CORPS, May 21, 1864. Capt. SOLON A. CARTER, Acting Assistant AdjUtant-General: CAPTAIN: Fort Powliatan is attacked, and General Wild has gone thither with one regiment. He desired me to inform you of the fact by the first opportunity, and requests General Hinks to send assistance. Your obedient servant, H. W. ALLEN, First Lieutenant and Acting Assistcnt Adjutant-General. In response to the call for assistance I immediately proceeded with the Fifth Reo~ment U. S. Colored Troops to Fort Powhatan, where I found everything quiet, a demonstration merely of the enemys cavalry having been made against the place about 12 in., and his force having dispersed by a few well-directed shots from our guns. After inspecting the lines of our troops I returned to City Point, arriving here at 1 a. m. The dispatch signed by Lieutenant Allen was not in obedience to any demand for assistance from Colonel Kiddoo, who is well prepared for any attack of the enemy, and equal to any emergency that is likely to occur at that point. A copy of Colonel Kiddoos report of the affair will be forwarded when re- ceived. I deem it necessary to send one squadron of cavalry to Colonel Kiddoo, and I respectfully urge that at least one entire regiment of the colored cavalry be returned to my division at once. I am, general, very respectfully, your obedient servant, EDW. W. HINKS, Brigadier-General, Commanding Division. Maj. Gen. B. F. BUTLER, Coindg. Dept. of Virginia and North Carolina Page 168 168 OPERATIONS IN SE. VA~ AND N. C. [CHAP. XLVIII. No. 73. Report of Gol. Joseph B. Kiddoo, Twenty-second lIT. S. Colored In fantry, First Brigade, of operations May 21. HDQRS. TWENTY-SECOND U. S. COLORED TROOP$, Fort Powhatan, Va., May 22, 1864. CAPTAIN: I have the honor to report that the enemys cavalry, about 100 strong, made a demonstration upon my pickets yesterday at noon. The pickets held them in check until the infantry was formed and the artillerymen got to their guns, both at the time b~ing at work on the trenches. A few shots from Captain Howells battery dispersed the enemy. I signaled to General Wild that the enemy had appeared on my picket-line in small force, but had withdrawn. All quiet. He returned a message to the effect that if I needed help to send him word. At this time the enemy reappeared on my right in about the same or larger force, when I sent to General Wild for a regiment of infantry, fearing that they were the advance guard of a larger force. By this time the gun-boats, by previously agreed upon signals, had got into position and shelled the woods on our right and left. At this time a section of Captain Howells battery passed down the river from City Point on its way to Wilsons Wharf. I hailed the boat and took the responsibility of ordering the section ashore to my assistance on the assurance that I had received from Gen- eral Wild that he would give me any assistance needed. Before General Wild arrived with the First U. S. Colored Troops the enemy had again disappeared. General Wild rode the line with me, and, concluding that it was only a reconnoitering party, left about ~5 p. m. with the First U. S. Colored Troops and the section of Captain Howells battery, which I had taken the responsibility to stop. I had only two men wounded. The pickets behaved most creditably, one man standing at his post, and, after firing and loading three times, fenced with a rebel officer till he disabled the officer, and received a stroke across the face with a saber. I very respectfully renew my application for a small detachment of cavalry to do vedette duty, that we may have a more timely alarm on the approach of an enemy; also that the section of Captain How- ells battery ordered away from here be allowed to remain for the present; also that, if consistent with the safety of other posts, I be furnished with more infantry to assist in doing the fatigue duty nec- essary to make this position secure. It will be remembered by the general commanding that while I may have infantry enough to do the fatigue or man my front line and do the picket duty, yet I have not enough for both. I take pleasure in reporting that the gun-boats Atlanta and Dawn co-operate with me most cordially and faithfully in everything that pertains to the safety of the post. I have the honor to be, captain, very respectfully, your obedient servant, J. B. KJDDOO, Colonel, Commanding Post. Capt. SOLON A. CARTER, Acting Assistant Adjutant-General Page 169 CHAP. XLVIII.] SOUTH SIDE OF TILE JAMES. 169 No. 74. Report of Cot. Samuel A. Duncan, Fourth U. S. Colored Infantry, commanding Second Brigade, of operations May 18. HDQRS. SECOND BRIG., THIRD DIv., 18TH ARMY CORPS, City Point, Va., May 19, 1864. CAPTAIN: I have the honor to report that the enemy made a dem- onstration against our works at this point yesterday morning at 11 oclock. Issuing suddenly and in force from the woods on the Pe- tersburg road, he commenced a vigorous shelling of the reserve of our grand guard ; at the same time throwing two squadrons of cav- alry into line near his two pieces of artillery, and sending a few skir mishers down along the woods in our front, connecting with a body of 80 or 40 horsemen that appeared upon onr left near the house of Mr. Livesay. Our picket-line was immediately disposed as skir- mishers. A few well-directed shots from the battery of the enemy caused our right to fall back, which necessitated the retirement of the whole line. They fell back in excellent order, and fii~ing delib- erately, apparently with some effect. Had the picket-line main- tained its position more obstinately, it is possible that the enemy, whose object was to reconnoiter our position, would have been una- ble to reach the crest nearest our works, and would have been obliged to retire, content with such view only as could be obtained from the woods nearly a mile in front. As it was, he followed up our retiring line, and planted his howitzers on the crest near Gatlins house, opening on our works. As soon as our line of skirmishers was sufficiently retired, three of our guns replied. The gun-boats also came to our assistance promptly, and a brisk cannonading ensued for a half hour, at the expiration of which time the enemy retired. As his force was mainly cavalry, it was impracticable to pursue him. Captain Dollard went out far enough to get data from the in- habitants by which to estimate the force. His estimate is the niost reliable that I have. The enemy is believed to have had about 600 mounted men, a small force of infantry, one or two companies, and two 12-pounder howitzers. Most of our fire was well directed. Three or four saddles were emptied by our skirmishers, and some of our shells exploded in the immediate vicinity of the enemys battery, causing him to move off to the rear instantly. A shell from the gun-boats burst directly over the company of rebels near Livesays, dispersing them at once. At about 6 p. m. a small force was seen by our vedettes to return along the Petersburg road as far as Mills house, and then turn off into the woods, bringing with them three ambulances and one~ how- itzer. The inhabitants this morning stated that this was for the pur- pose of removing their wounded, whom they had concealed in the woods. It is hardly possible, in fact, that the enemy escaped without con- siderable damage, subjected as he was to a cross-fire from the gun- boats, in addition to the direct fire from our works, at a range of 1,000 yards. Two of our men only are wounded, one very slightly in the face, the other more seriously in the fore-arm, both by fragments of shells Page 170 170 OPERATIONS IN SE. VA. AND N. C. [CHAP. XLVIII. We fired 44 shots, 13 shells, and 31 spherical case. The enemy fired 25 or 30, some of which exploded directly over the works, the most fell short. Much credit is due the gun-boats for the prompt and efficient service which they rendered. I remain, captain, most respectfully, your obedient servant, SAML. A. DUNCAN, Coloii el, Commanding. Capt. SOLON A. CARTER, Acty. Asst. Adjt. Gen., Thinks Division. No. 75. Report of Cot. Benjamin F. Onderdonk, First New York Mounted Rifles (anatiached troops), of operations May 719. HDQRS. FIRST REGT. MOUNTED RIFLES, N. Y. VOLS., In the Field, near Bermuda Hundred, Va., May 25, 1864. COLONEL: Agreeable to instructions from corps headquarters, I have the honor to report the part taken by my regiment in the late engagements: At daylight on the 7th instant, pursuant to orders received from the major-general commanding, I left camp with eight troops~350 menand was ordered in the advance toward the Petersburg and Richmond Railroad, under Brigadier-General Brooks. Mistook the road, and marched in the direction of Port Walthall Junction; met and captured 7 of the enemy; returned and moved out on correct road; passed through the line of infantry skirmishers, when the advance guard, reporting the enemy in line of battle oblique in thick woods across swamps, from left to right back, threw out skirmishers and opened fire. The enemy replied by volley. I should judge a bri- gade was in position. My own horse was wounded, 2 of non-coni- missioned staff killed, and 2 others in troops. Was then ordered out of range, and infantry advanced; moved to the mills to hold the position. On retiring, assisted the wounded men of all arms from the field, and returned to camp as rear guard. On the 9th moved out in the same direction, covering the right flank; moved with advance line of skirmishers through the woods to the railroad, without finding the enemy. Was then ordered in the advance on the turnpike toward Petersburg; met the enemy near Swift Creek in force; skir- mished with them until the infantry came up, when the enemy opened with artillery, and my command was ordered under cover. On the lot h ordered to the right oii turnpike toward Richmond to make reconnaissance ~nd find the enemy; found the right generally engaged; was order& Tto picket the left front. In the evening re- turned to camp, covering the rear. On the 12th moved to the front in advance, via Ware Bottom Church; a short distance beyond met the enemys pickets, at the school-house, and moved by the left to the twrnpike, picketing the left and covering that flank. 13th, ordered to report to General Gillm ore; moved toward Chester Court- House, covering the left, and moving through the woods was ordered to hold Salem Church with two troops, the balance of my command to extend the line from the left of infantry to Salem Church. 14th, performed same service. 15th, performed same service. On th Page 171 CHAP. XLVIII.) SOUTH SIDE OF THE JAMES. 171 16th ordered to retire, by General Gilimore, and leave the wounded; formed the infantry, as they retired, in the rifle-pits to cover the left. Succeeded in recovering all the wounded who were expected to live. Called in my pickets, and covered the rear of the army, holding the railroad until all the infantry stragglers were gathered in, and moved into camp in the rear as usual. 17th, ordered to re- port to General Gillmore, commanding Tenth Army Corps. Re- ceived orders to move on the turnpike to endeavor to capture a wagon train of the enemy. Found the enemy in strong force on the icket-line, and was ordered to retire. Returned to camp at day- Bght on the morning of the 18th. 19th, ordered on reconnaissance toward Port Walthall Junction; reached the mill beyond the lines, found the bridge torn up and a cheval-de-frise barricading the way; endeavored to reopen it, when the enemy opened fire from a shelter. Deeming it impossible to force the position, I retired. I would most respectfully name as worthy of honorable mention, Capt. C. S. Masten, Lieuts. James W. Burton and A. Egerton Adams, for gallantry and coolness. Casualties * I am, colonel, very respectfully, your obedient servant, B. F. ONDERDONK, Colonel, Commanding First Mounted Rifles. Lient. Col. NIcoLAS BOWEN, Asst. Adjt. Gen., Eighteenth Army Corps. No. 76. Report of Brig. Gen. August V. Kautz, U. S. Army, commanding Cavalry Division, of operations May 5-17. HEADQUARTERS CAVALRY DIVISION, Near Point of Rocks, Va., June 3, 1864. SIR: I have the honor to submit my report of the operations of the cavalry under my command during the month of May in cutting the railroad communications south of Richmond, as a1so the reports of brigade and regimental commanders: The first expedition started on the morning of the 5th of May in accordance with verbal instructions from the major-general com- manding the department, and was directed against the Petersburg and Weldon Railroad. From the failure for two years past of ex- peditions directed against this road, I reasoned that the Blackwater River was an impassable barrier, and that the expedition would be most likely to succeed by seeking a crossing near its source. The first days march was made through Suffolk to Andrews Corners, about 33 miles. From this point the principal crossings were threat- ened, and no exposure of the design to head the stream was made~ by camping there. Soon after midnight the march was resumed, passing through Windsor and by Isle of Wight Court-House to Fearnsville, where a demonstration was made at the crossing, Whilst the column rested, and then continued on across Cypress Swamp to Birch Island Bridge. We were here enabled to make a crossing, although a small picket force was engaged in~_taking up the * Nominal list (omitted) shows 1 en1is~ed man killed, 8 wounded, 3 captured, 1 missing Page 172 1T2 OPE1~ATIoNs IN SE. VA. AND N. C. [CHAP. XLVIII. bridges, and of the three bridges, two were already taken lip. Lieu- tenant Prudhomme, Eleventh Pennsylvania Cavalry, was seriously wounded whilst leading the advance to drive off the enemys pickets. He was sent in an ambulance to Fort Powhatan the same night and reached that place in safety. The command camped at Wakefield, where the Norfolk and Petersburg track was cut; the station house and some freight cars and a small amount of stores destroyed. The distance marched was about 50 miles this day. On the morning of the 7th, between 2 and 3 oclock, the march was resumed, passing via Littleton, Peters Brk~ge, and leaving Sussex Court-House on the right, by Bollings Bridge to Stony Grove, on the Petersburg and Weldon Railroad. At Littleton we captured an officer, with a train of three or four wagons of commis- sary and other stores. Bollings Bridge was defended by a picket of infantry, and a portion of the bridge was taken up. About 4 oclock the guard at the railroad bridge, under Major Zeigler, Fifty-ninth Virginia [Holcombe Legion], surrendered, with about 40 men, after some firing and the loss of Lieutenant Mayes and several men killed and wounded. A frame bridge 110 feet long, two wood-sheds, two water-tanks, a large lot of extra bridge timber, three freight-cars loaded with lumber, a culvert, and turn-pits were here destroyed. Sufficient corn and bacon for the command were captured and used, and the three regiments of the command bivouacked here for the night. Three trains loaded with troops of Beauregards command passed on to Petersburg about noon, and five trains were due between 5 and 6 oclock. The Eleventh Pennsylvania Cavalry, under Col. S. P. Spear, I sent down to burn the Nottoway railroad bridge, but did not reach it in time before night set in. The bridge was found to be guarded, and no attempt was made to burn it that night. The dis- tance marched was abcut 40 miles. At daylight on the 8th the Fifth Pennsylvania Cavalry was sent to the Eleventh with orders to move on the Nottoway bridge from the south, and Colonel Mix was directed to move on the same from the north side, while I recon- noitered the railroad toward Petersburg with two companies of the First District of Columbia Cavalry. Finding a force defending the Rowanty bridge, after the lapse of two or three hours I withdrew to Bollings B ridge, and, to my great disappointment, found Colonel Mix had not moved. Deeming it too late to co-operate with Colonel Spear, I recrossed Bollings Bridge and moved directly on Nottoway bridge, and found that Colonel Spear with his command had devoted the morning to the, destruction of Jarratts Station, where my orders reached him. For a report of the damage done, see Colonel Spears report. Nottoway bridge was 210 feet long. I found it defended by a re- doubt, and several hundred men under Colonel Tabb, of the Fifty- ninth Virginia. The ground about the bridge was open, and the em- bankment of the road on our side and the redoubt on the other side formed a strong defense. The enemy occupied both sides of the river. Placing the artillery to command the bridge and redoubt, a portion of the carbineers were dismounted and sent to the railroad track, to move along it and drive the enemy from the embankment. This force united with a portion of Colonel Spears command, and drove the enemy through the bridge in handsome style, while the artillery opened a cross-fire upon them, and kept up a galling fire upon them until the bridge was in flames, when our forces with Page 173 C8AP. XLVIII.] SOUTH SIDE OF THE JAMES. 173 drew out of range. In twenty minutes the bridge fell into the stream. Colonel Tabb, had he retained all his men in the redoubt, could have inflicted a very severe loss upon us before the bridge could have been burned. I anticipated a much heavier loss than actually occurred. I now found myself hampered by about 130 prisoners and about 30 wounded, among them several officers. A large por- tiomi of Beauregards forces was on the way from Weldon, and it was reasonable to expect difficulties in the direction of Petersburg. The railroad was fairly cut, and my duty successfully performed, I therefore returned, via Allens Bridge, to the Petersburg and Jeru- salem plank road and thence to City Point, burning a culvert on the Petersburg and Norfolk Railroad on the way. I reached City Point on the morning of the 10th, without any serious interruption, with the command in very good condition. I should not neglect to mention that I effected, through a flag of truce, an exchange of 3 or 4 prisoners of my command that had fallen into the hands of Colonel Tabb, some of them wounded. I could, no doubt, have captured Colonel Tabbs command, but reflecting that the loss of ammunition probably necessary to do it, and the increased number of prisoners and the time lost, muight seriously interfere if it did not a I together (lefeat my return to City Point, I reluctantly left him to guard where the bridge had been. On the 11th the command crossed the Appomattox at Bermuda Hundred and was occupied in drawing rations and ammunition for an expedition against the Richmond and Danville Road. The night of the 11th it rained hard and materially interfered with this duty, and the command was under the necessity of moving before I could satisfy myself that it was fully equipped. About 9 a. m. on the 12th the march began, moving out to the. Chesterfield Junction. The march was continued on to Chesterfield Court-House; thence in northwes1~erly direction to Coalfield, which place we reached at about 11 oclock at night. Here the station- house, wood-sheds, water-tank, some cars loaded with shells, and a good portion of the track were destroyed, after which the command bivouacked, in a heavy rain, some 4 or 5 miles distant on the Buck- ingham pike running parallel to the railroad. About 9 a. m. on the 13th the command reached Powhatan Station. Here we obtained a good supply of forage and bacon and destroyed the freight-house, station-house, water-tank, and a considerable portion of the track, and about 15 freight-cars. The command then moved upon Mattoax bridge. Here is an iron truss bridge across the Appomattox. The enemy were fortified with artillery on the opposite bank, and com- pletely commanded all approach from our side. Leaving the ad- vance regiment to keep up a front agaimmst the bridge and to bring up the rear, the column moved down the river to Goodes Bridge, where we were delayed until dark in the rain, repairing a span of the bridge which had been cut out by some of the country people. The depot was reached about 10 oclock at night, when the command bivouacked, after taking up the switch on the track. We learned here that the force at the Mattoax bridge had been re-enforced, in the mean time, by three trains loaded with troops. Two of the trains had returned empty. The engine of the third came down to recon- noiter the depot and was captured by running o.ff the track at the. switch; the negro fireman came to us, but the engineer and con- ductor escaped back Page 174 174 OPERATIONS IN SE. VA. AN]) N. C. [Cm~p. XLVIII. Early on the morning of the 14th Colonel Spear and Major Jacobs, with portions of their commands, were sent up the road to make a demonstration on Flat Creek bridge, while the rest of the command were engaged in destroying the track and buildings. The station- house, water-tank, freight-house, two or three freight-cars, and an engine were destroyed here. Finding that Flat Creek bridge was strongly contested, the column was put in motion toward the south, and we marched to Wellville, on the South Side Railroad. A short distance from Weilville, Colonel Spear was detached with his brigade and ordered to proceed to Wilsons Station to destroy it, which he re- ports he has successfully accomplished, besides taking up a good portion of the track. After tearing up the track at Wellville and burning the freight-house and an empty car, the whole command proceeded to Blacks and Whites Station, where there was quite a supply of forage and commissary stores, with which the command was supplied. The freight-house, wood-sheds, water-tank, and a train of freight-cars were here destroyed, and quite a portion of the track torn up, after which the command continued south 4 or S miles, and bivouacked. On the morning of the 15th the command continued south, over a muddy roadit having rained hard during the nightto Lawrence- ville, which we reached early in the evening. We here captured forage and bacon for the command and a few prisoners, and en- camped for the night. On the 16th we took the road toward Belfield, but all the in- formation going to show that the Hicksford bridge was strongly intrenched and defended with two redoubts, four pieces of artillery, a regiment of infantry, and a battalion of zonaves, besides the home guards, and a great deal of our ammunition having become unserviceable by the great quantity of rain that had fallen, it was deemed advisable to turn toward Jarratts Station. Here we found the track repaired, a new water-tank just completed, and a train of cars which left just before our arrival. The water-tank was again burned, a few rails were torn up, but nothing more could be done, as the condition of the command rendered our return necessary as soon as possible. A pontoon train near by and some baggage were also destroyed, and the roads and vacated camps showed that quite a large force had passed that way toward Petersburg, and we learned that Beauregards forces that had been cut off by the first raid had gone by this road. We found a structure sufficient to permit trains to cross over the Nottoway, replacing the bridge we had de- stroyed on the 8th. It was guarded, and late in the evening, and would have delayed us another day to destroy it. We therefore continued to march to Freemans, where we frightened away a J)arty, destroying the bridge. We were delayed until near daylight repairing the bridge and then proceeded on to City Point, where we arrived late in the afternoon of the 17th, having met a number of small parties of the enemy on our flanks. We marched from 30 to 40 miles daily for six days, during which a great deal of rain had fallen, and the roads in some places very heavy. Considering the work done, comparatively fe~ of the horses have failed. We captured about as many horses as we lost on the marches, and brought in besides several hundred mules and a large number of negroes; many more of the latter would have followed if we had had transportation for them Page 175 CHAP. XLVIII.] SOUTH SIDE OF THE JAMES. 175 The fighting qualities of the men I have never seen excelled, and in this respect I can congratulate the whole command without dis- tinction. I have, however, to deplore a disposition to pillage and plunder on the part of some of the men and a want of proper officer- ing on the part of some of the officers to check this tendency. There seems to be a looseness of sentiment (not unusual to cavalry) in this respect in the command that is to be regretted, as it adds no luster to our cause, but rather mars the splendor of their military achieve- ments. While I cannot mention regimental officers without including all alike for their meritorious conduct on these two expeditions, I should not omit the important services rendered by the officers serving on my staff, Dr. Rivers, chief surgeon; Major Wetherill, acting pro- vost-marshal; Captain Asch, acting assistant adjutant-general; and Lieutenants Allis and Monroe, aides-de-camp. The following is a summary of the killed, wounded, and missing, on both expeditions, viz: Troops. Killed, wounded. Missing. Total. First Brigade Second Brigade 9 31 4 44 Total 14 60 27 101 Very respectfully, your obedient servant, AUGUST V. KAUTZ, Brigadier- General of Vols., Chief of Cavalry. Maj. R. S. DAVIS, A. A. G., Dept. of Virginia and North Carolina. Field report of Kautzs Cavalry Division during May, 1864. PresenL for duty, equipped. Troops. cavalry. Artillery. Total. Officers. Men. Officers. Men. Officers. Men. First Brigade: Third New York Cavalry 26 756 26 756 First District of columbia cavalry 21 3 21 352 it. 5econd Brigade: 20~ Fifth Pennsylv~nia Cavalry Eleventh Pennsylvania cavalry 30 857 30 857 Section 8th New York Battery (two pieces) 1 34 1 34 Total 972,804 I 34~ 98 2,838 The numbers here given will include all of the number present for duty who can be equipped. Only such being considered on special, extra, or daily duty as are permanently detached on duty preventing their being made available. AUGUST V. KAUTZ, Brigadier-General of Volunteers,, Gommanding. MAY , 1864 Page 176 176 OPERATIONS IN SE. VA. AND N. C. [CHAP. XLVIII. No. 77. Report Qf (Jol. Simon H Mix. Third New York Cavalry, com manding First Brigade, of operations May 5-10. HDQRS. FIRST BRIGADE, KAUTZS CAVALRY Div. In the Field, near Hatchers, Va., May 29, 1864. CAPTAIN: As commander of the First Brigade, Kautzs Cavalry Division, on the raid from near Portsmouth to Stony Creek, Notto- way River, & c., Va., I have the honor respectfully to report: That in obedience to orders from your headquarters I moved from near Gettys Station at daylight on the morning of the 5th of May, instant, with my brigade, composed of the Thir New York Cavalry and a detachment of six companies of the First District of Columbia Cavalry, numbering in all 970 men. Passing through Suffolk about noon, I marched my brigade to Andrews Corners, distant from Gettys Station about 38 miles, which place was reached about 9 p. in., where I halted, rested, and fed men and horses, remaining there until 12 oclock at midnight. At 1 a. m. of the morning of the 6th, agreeable to orders, T moved from Andrews Corners in the direction of Fearnsville, which place was reached during the forenoon. Here a halt was made until 2 p. in., when the march was resumed in the direction of the Suffolk Petersburg Railroad at a point known as Wakefield, ~Norfolk] and in Andrews Corners, by the route traveled, about 47 miles, which place was reached, after crossing the Blackwater at Birch Island Bridge, about 9 p. m. I bivouacked my command at Wakefield, remaining there until 2 a. in. of the 7th, when I was ordered to take the right of the division and resnme the march. Leaving Wakefield at 2 a. in. of the 7th, I proceeded through Little- toii in the direction of the Petersburg and Weldon Railroad. At Littleton, Captain Pierce, Company K, Third New York Cavalry, having command of the advance guard of the column, captured 1 rebel lieutenant and 7 men, with several wagons loaded with coin- missary stores en route from Bacons Castle to Petersburg. Reaching Boilings Bridge, a carriage structure which crosses the Nottoway River near Stony Creek Station, on the Petersburg and Weldon Railroad, about 3 p. in. same day, a force of rebels was found there in position to resist the crossing of the column. Major Jacobs, who was in command of the Third New York Cavalry, and in advance, assisted by Major Hall, commanding First Battalion, same regiment, dislodged the enemy after a sharp skirmish, in which the Third lost Lieut. John Mayes, a valuable officer, killed, and 2 men wounded, both of whom have since died. The railroad station at Stony Creek was seized and held by my command. The bridge across the stream, depot buildings, water-tanks, & c., were burned and utterly de- stroyed, and 1 rebel major, 8 other officers (captains and lieutenants), and 46 men, comprising the entire force, were captured. Halting near Bollings Bridge for the night, a march was made on the moriming of the 8th for Nottoway River railroad bridge, which was reached about 10 a. in. This bridge, after a fight lasting for over an hour with the enemy, was burned by my command, assisted by the Second Brigade, under command of ColonelSpear. I must here men- tion the important part taken in this affair by the First District of Columbia Cavalry, commanded by Maj. J. S. Baker. A portion o Page 177 C~p. XLVIII.] SOUTH SIDE OF THE JAMES. 177 Major Bakers command, deployed as skirmishers in the woods at our right, drove the enemy from a strong position, and, assisted by a small force of carbineers from the Third New York Cavalry, com- pelled him to retreat to a fort which commanded the bridge. In this engagement my command lost 2 men killed and 17 wounded. Capt. John Ebbs, of the Third New York Cavalry, and Lieutenant Jackson of the First District of Columbia Cavalry, were both severely wounded in this fight, the latter of whom has since died. Our wounded were all brought in with the command. Our (lead having been buried and the wounded cared for, I marched my bri- gade on the left of the column, about ~ p. m. of the 8th, to within I mile of Sussex Court-House, where I bivouacked for the night. Early on the morning of the 9th I resumed the march, crossing the Nottoway River at Allens Bridge, and proceeding on the plank road toward Petersburg, struck the road leading to City Point, bivonack- in(r for the night near Prince George Court-House, and resuming the march early on the morning of the 10th, reached City Point. about noon of that day, bringing in with me all of our wounded and. the prk~oners captured. The men and horses of the command, con- sidering the severity of the labor performed on the raid, were in better condition than might have reasonably been expected. I desire to make favorable mention of the officers and men of the First District of Columbia Cavalry throughout the entire affair. The Third New York Cavalry also bore a conspicuous part, and per- formed all the work required of it in a commendable manner. All the officers and men of my brigade behaved with a degree of energy and valor to excite admiration. I transmit herewith reports of regimental commanders, and lisLs of casualties* as furnished by the surgeon-in-chief of my brigade. I am, captain, very respectfully, your obedient servant, SIMON H. MIX, Colonel Third New York Cavalry, Comdg. First Brig. Capt. M. J. ASCH, Actg. Asst. Adit. Gen., Kautzs Cavalry Division. No. 78. Report of ]Ift~j. Ferris Jacobs, Jr., Third New York ~Javalry, corn manding First Brigade, of operations JtEay 1217. CAMP THIRD NEW YORK CAVALRY, In Trenches, near Appomattox River, May 26, 1864. CAPTAIN: I have the honor, as commander of the First Brigade, Kautzs Cavalry Division, on the late raid on enemys comumuni- cations south of Richmond, to make the following report: On the morning of the 12th instant, being assigned to the right, I moved with my brigade (the First District of Columbia Cavalry in advance) through General Butlers lines, near Proctors Creek (my advance guard receiving a slight fire from the enemys extreme right line of skirmishers), across the railroad, without further opposition, taking the road to Chesterfield Court-House, at which place several * Embodied in revised statement, p. 17. l~ R RVOL XXXVJ, PT I Page 178 178 OPERATIONS IN SE. VA. AND N. C. [Can.. XLVIII. prisoners were found confined in the jail, and released. Reached Coalfield Station, on the Danville railroad, about midnight, seized the telegraph office, destroyed the wires, and procuring tools from the mines near by, succeeded in tearing up the track for a consider- able distance, burned several cars and all the appurtenances of rail- road station. The Second Brigade then took the advance, and about noon of the 13th arrived at Powhatan Station, destroying it, crossed Goodes Bridge, and bivouacked in the woods for the night. The morning of the 14th moved on Chula Station, destroyed a locomo- tive, and was ordered to move with the carbineers of the Third New York Cavalry upon the enemys position at the bridge over Flat Creek. Moved down upon the track with 120 carbineers of the Third and one piece of Richardsons howitzer section, under Lieutenant Burke. Found the enemy in considerable force, and deploying to the right and left of the track, moved down in line of skirmishers upon the bridge. A portion of my left (about 50 men, under Capt. R. M. Hall) reached the bridge, and reported that the timbers were partly covered with tin and very wet, rendering it impossible to destroy it without prepared combustibles. The fire of enemy at this point became very deadly, and their position was so low as to be out of range of my piece. They were also supported by a heavy line of skirmishers and sharpshooters on a high ridge immediately in their rear, but beyond the range of my carbines. I succeeded, however, in holding the position until ordered to withdraw, which I did, the enemy pursuing closely and in largely superior numbers. My loss was almost entirely from Captain Halls command, and numbered 25 men killed, wounded, and missing. I regret to state that my miss- ing were nearly all men wounded in attempting to bring off their wounded comrades, the ambulance and horses having been left 1 mile to the rear. Resumed the march, First District of Columbia in advance, and reached Wilsons Station, on South Side Railroad, and Blacks and Whites about night-fall, destroying them and 15 cars loaded with grain, & c. Marched all night in the rain through Jonesville, and halted for the night at Lawrenceville. On the 16th took the advance, crossed the Petersburg and Weldon Railroad at Jarratts Station, avoiding Belfield, First District of Columbia on the right, and burning a pontoon bridge and water- tank. Fin~ing Freemans Bridge destroyed, it was rebuilt by the First District of Columbia, under Major Baker, and the command moved on, with frequent skirmishing, toward City Point, where it arrived on the afternoon of the 17th in a completely exhausted con- dition. The casualties of the First Disfrict of Columbia Cavalry were 1 lieutenant slightly wounded in leg~ 1 enlisted man killed, and S enlisted men wounded. The casualties of Third New York Cav- alry were 1 lieutenant slightly wounded in neck, and 25 men killed, wounded, and missing. The conduct of the command, both officers and men, in action and along the line of march, was such as to merit my warmest com- mendation, and highly creditable to their discipline and reputation as soldiers. And, captain, I am, respectfully, your obedient servant, F. JACOBS, JR., Major, Comdg. First Brigade, Kautzs Cavalry Division. Capt. M. J. ASCH, AcIg. Asst. A6~jt. Gen., Kauizs Cavalry Division Page 179 CHAP. XLVIII.] SOUTH SIDE OF THE JAMES. 179 No. 79. Reports of ilfaj. J. Stannard Baker, First District of Columbia Cav alry, of operations May 517. HDQRS. FIRST DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA CAVALRY, In the Field, May 29, 1864. COLONEL: Herewith I have the honor to report briefly the part taken by this regiment in the first raid May 5 to May 10, incinsive: May 5.In compliance with the order of Colonel Mix, command- ing First Brigade of Cavalry, in the division of General A. V. Kautz, the First District of Colnmbia Cavalry, nnder command of Maj. J. S. Baker, marched from Deep Creek, Dismal Swamp, Va., and joined General Kantzs colnmn near Bowers Hill and reached Suffolk a little after noon, where we halted a short time, then marched toward Blackwater River, and about 9 oclock in the evening the colnmn halted in the woods for the night and slept a few honrs. Friday, Gth.Started abont 3 oclock in the morning and crossed the Blackwater in the afternoon, and in the evening halted in the woods near the railroad at Wakefield. Saturday, 7th. Bef ore daylight commenced the march and reached the Nottoway River and crossed it near Stony Creek about 3 p. in., where we found the Third New York Cavalry had jnst met the ene- my in a smart engagement and whipped them. After aiding to destroy the railroad station with other buildings and a bridge the column recrossed the Nottoway and halted for the night. Sunday, 8th.Abont 8 a. in. marched for Nottoway railroad bridge above Jarratts Station, which was reached before noon, where we found the enemy intrenched behind earth-works at the opposite end of the bridge. They came across in considerable force and formed a line of skirmishers and battle along the railroad, from which they were speedily driven into their fortifications across the bridge. After a spirited contest by Companies A, B, C, F, and E, of the First District of Columbia Cavalry, who were dismounted and deployed as skirmishers, under command of Maj. D. S. Curtis, and with vigor and bravery drove the enemy in snperior numbers double- quick through the woods more than half a mile and down the track toward the bridge, when we came up with a portion of the Eleventh Pennsylvania Cavalry, under Colonel Spear, who had drawn up his men along the railroad on our left. Colonel Spear then ordered our skirmishers to be halted and massed with the Eleventh Pennsylvania to charge upon the bridge, which was quickly done, and our men rushing down the track, the bridge was quickly reached, under the sharp fire of the enemy from shelter of the covered bridge and their breast-works. The bridge was soon fired by the First District of Columbia Cavalry and burnt, when they returned to the road from which we had started and occupied an old building for hospital pur- poses to care for our wounded. The First District of Columbia Cay- .alry lost 2 killed and 8 wounded. Among the latter was Lieutenant Jackson, a brave and noble young officer. Several of the enemy were taken prisoners and a number killed. About 5 p. in. we started and marched to Sussex Court-House, where we halted for the night. Monday, 9th.Started before daylight and marched to Hawkins- ville, from which place the rebel pickets had been driven by our advance guard. By about noon halted a short time, started again, and at 3 oclock halted for dinner; then marched to an old church within about 8 miles of City Point and halted for the night Page 180 180 OPERATIONS IN SE. VA. AND N. C. [cHAP. XLVIII. Tuesday, lOth.Reached City Point before noon and encamped for the night. Wednesday, llth.Crossed the Appomattox to Bermuda Hun- dred, halted a short time, then marched to near General Butlers headquarters. J. STANNARD BAKER, Major. Comdg. First District of Columbia Cavalry. Col. S. H. Mix, Oomdg. First Brigade, Kautzs ~iJavalry Division. HDQRS. FIRST DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA CAVALRY, Bermuda Hundred, Va., May 26, 1864. MAJOR: I have the honor to submit to you the following report of the doings of the First District of Columbia Cavalry while on the last raid of General Kautzs Cavalry Division in Southern Vir- ginia: On the morning of the 12th of May orders were received by Major Baker, commanding the regiment, which was then in camp iiear General Butlers headquarters, to march at once, leaving all wagons, pack-mules, baggage, led horses, and sick in camp. By order from General Kautz this regiment took the advance, the first squadron acting as advance guard. Very soon after having passed the outposts of General Butlers army the advance guard was fired upon by a picket-station at a crotch of the roads near Swift Creek, The fire being sharply returned the pickets *ere driven in. During the entire day the advance guards exchanged frequent shots with pickets and small parties of the enemy along our route, and in some cases charged them with sabers, capturing a few prisoners. At Chesterfield Court-House the jail was broken open and a number of rebel conscripts were released. At Coalfield Station, which was reached about 11 oclock in the evening, the telegraph was cut, rail- road torn up, depot building, water-tanks, wood-sheds, and also a tannery were burned. Six cars standing upon the track at this sta tion were also burned. Major Baker, by order of General Kautz, remained with the regiment at this station to see that the orders in relation to the destruction of rebel property were executed, and upon the march to fall in the rear of the column. Upon the next day (13th of May), being in the rear, nothing of importance was done by the regiment. On the morning of the next day the regiment was again placed upon the advance, ComDany C being the advance guard. During the afternoon Wellville Station was reached, where the railroad and telegraph were cut, and a large quantity of grain and bacon and other stores were taken. The advance guard reached Blacks arid Whites Station about 8 oclock on the evening of the same day, where large quantities of grain, bacon, and other stores, were taken and destroyed, depot, store-houses, water-tanks, wood- shed, and thirteen cars, niostly loaded ~vith forage, were burned. Major Baker, by order of General Kautz, remained with his regi- inent at the station to see that the orders in relation to the destruc- tion of property were carried out, and upon the march the column to take the rear. On Sunday, the 1~th, the regiment was in the rear. One squad- rQn was acting as rear guard. As the rear guard was crossiug Page 181 OHM. XLVIII.) SOUTH SIDE OF THE JAMES. 181 bridge across the Appomattox River, Major Baker received orders from Major Jacobs, commanding brigade, to destroy the bridge after the column had passed over it, which order was executed. That night the command encamped in the town of Lawrenceville. Dur- ing the march of the next day nothing occnrred until about noon, when the regiment was again ordered to the front, one squadron acting as advance guard. Jarratts Station was reachedin the after- noon, where the water-tank was burned and several prisoners cap- tnred. A train of pontoons was destroyed by the pioneers of the regiment near Jarratts Station. Pickets and small parties of the eneniy were frequently encountered by the advance guard during the afternoon and evening of this day. The advance guard reached Freemans Bridge about 12 oclock at night and found two spans of the bridge cut away and the bridge guarded by a force of the enemy, which was quickly driven off. In accordance with orders from General Kautz operations were immediately commenced by Major Baker with his command in repairing the bridge, and in just two hours and a half the bridge was in readiness for the com- mand to cross. During the following day this regiment still re- tained the advance. During the day the advance guard had fre- quent skirmishes with the enemys pickets. Some prisoners were captured and City Point was reached in the afternoon. The cas- ualties in the regiment on this raid are as follows: 1 lieutenant wounded in the leg slightly, 1 enlisted man wounded, and 5 enlisted men missing. All of which is very respectfully submitted. I am, sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant, J. STANNARD BAKER, Major, Commanding Regiment. [Maj. FERRIS JACOBS, Jr., Commanding First Brigade.] No. 80. Report of Maj. Ferris Jacobs, Jr., Third New York cavalry, of operations May 510. CAMP THIRD NEW YORK CAvALRY, In the Trenches, near Petersburg, Va., May 26, 1864. COLONEL: I have the honor as commander of the Third New York Cavalry on the late raid from Suffolk against the Petersburg and Weldon Railroad to make the following report, to wit: Left Gettys Station near Portsmouth, Va., May 5. Marched with one short halt at night, and on the noon of the 6th passed through Fearnsville, near the Blackwater. Crossed the Blackwater at Walls Bridge and camped at Wakefield Station, on Norfolk and Peters- burg Railroad. Reached the Nottoway River on the 7th and crossed near Littleton, passed on through Comans Well, and again crossed the Nottoway at Bollings Bridge, after a slight skirmish, in which 1 man of M Com- pany was killed. Upon arriving in the immediate vicinity of Stony Creek bridge on the railroad, my advance received a sharp fire from the body of the enemy in position there. Finding it to be imposs Page 182 182 OPERATIONS IN SE. VA. AND N. C. ECHAP. XLVIII. ble without severe loss to dislodge them by a direct attack, I or- dered Major Hall with a battalion to attack them with dismounted skirmishers upon the extreme left, while I crossed the river with Companies G and E on the right, both bodies arriving at the bridge almost simultaneously, capturing 1 major, 8 other officers of inferior grade (captains and lieutenants), and 46 men. This action cost the regiment the life of Lient. John Mayes, one of its most valuable and gallant officers, and 2 men wounded. Maj. Newton Hall commanded the battalion on the right, and conducted the advance with excellent coolness, judgment. and gallantry. Remaining at Stony Creek bridge the remainder of the night, I again received the right, and upon arriv- ing at Whites Bridge, on the railroad and over the Nottoway River, was ordered to move with dismounted skirmishers against the enemy, who were strongly intrenched on the opposite side. While organiz- ing the attack, I perceived that a body of the enemy, numbering about 500 men, were leaving the bridge and fort and pushing rapidly to our left. Reported the fact to the general, who or(lered me to take com- mand of the First District of Columbia Cavalry, move through the woods on our left dismounted, and attack, which I did, leaving the immediate command of the regiment to Major Hall, previous to which I had sent Lieutenant Dern with L Company to reconnoiter the en- emys position along the river on the right. From Major Halls re- port I find that cotemporaneonsly with the movement of the First District of Columbia Cavalry on our left about 100 carbineers, of Companies C, E, G, D, and M, where moved into the woods on the right of the First District of Columbia, under command of Lient. P. Jeifries, deployed as skirmishers and moved up to the railroad. Capt. John Ebbs also commanded a body of skirmishers near the same place. Upon arriving near the track, they were received by a heavy fire from the enemy posted mainly on the opposite side of the track. Although most of the attacking party consisted of raw recruits, for the first time under fire, they behaved with spirit, and with the assistance of the First District of Columbia in a few moments drove the enemy from their position. All these detachments being united under Col- onel Spear, who airived with Second Brigade a few moments after, a combined massed attack was made upon the enemys position at the bridge, which resulted in its capture and destruction. Capt. John Ebbs fell severely wounded while charging the enemy and driving them from their position behind the track. The other casualties were 9 men wounded, 1 falling on the bridge while assisting to burn it, falling into the enemys hands, but afterward recovered on flag of truce. Privates John Gray and Hubbard Carr, of B Company, be- haved meritoriously in assisting Major Curtis, of the First District of Columbia, to burn the bridge under a galling fire. The column then set out to return, bivouacking the night of the 8th near Sussex Court-House. On the 9th crossed the Nottoway at Allens Bridge, struck plank road, moved toward City Point, passing the night miear Prince George Court-House, and entered City Point on the afternoon of the 10th in- stant, the command, both horses and men, in a greatly exhausted condition. And, I am, with great respect, your most obedient servant, F. JACOBS, JR., Major, Commanding Third New York Cavalry. Col. SIMON H. Mmx Comdg. First Brigade, Kautzs Cavalry Division Page 183 OH.u. XLVIII.] 183 SOUTH SIDE OF THE JAMES. No. 81. Report of Maj. Newton Hall, Third New York Cavalry, of oper ations May 1217. HEADQUARTERS THIRD NEW YORK CAVALRY, City Point, May 18, 1864. MAJOR: I have the honor to submit the following report of the movements and operations of the Third Regime nt Volunteer Cavalry, nuder my command, during the recent raid against the Danville, South Side, and Petersburg and Weldon Railroads. The Cavalry Division of General Kautz, to which the regiment is attached, left camp near Bermuda Hundred on the forenoon of the 12th instant, and passing in rear of the advance of General Butler, crossed the Petersburg and Richmond Railroad at Chester Station, which had already been visited by our forces, and proceeding onward reached Chesterfield Court-House without serious molestation about 2 p. m. Here several prisoners, confined for refusing to serve in the ranks of the rebel army, were released, and some public stores de- stroyed, after which we pushed forward to Coalfield Station, on the Danville road, which we reached at midnight. The track was torn up for a considerable distance by the regiment, assisted by the First District of Columbia Cavalry. A train of cars, depot, and public stores to a great amount burned and as great a destruction of all, but private property, made as possible, when we fell back about 4 miles and remained by the side of the road until morning. On the 1:~th we struck the road again at Powhatan and at Mattoax Bridge, destroying cars, depots, and a large quantity of rebel stores at the for- mer place, besides tearing up the track to a considerable extent, On approaching the iron bridge across the Appomattox in the after- noon, we found it guarded by a strong force of infantry and artillery, and making a detour to the left reached. the road bridge across the river about 5p. m. and found that a part of this bridge had been de- stroyed. Immediate preparations were made for repairing it, and we crossed it in safety shortly after dark, and marching about 2 miles, bivouacked until dawn. The next morning we marched forward to the station (Chula), where the advance had already taken a locomotive, with tender at- tached, and dismounting about 100 or 150 men of the regiment, armed mostly with carbines, of whom you, sir, took the command, an at- tempt was made to burn the bridge across Swift Creek, but, being opposed by a vastly superior force of the enemy, were unable to ac- complish their purpose and were ordered to retire after a gallant and persistent struggle, in which the regiment lost nearly 30 killed, wounded, and missing. On the afternoon of this day the regiment assisted in breaking the South Side Ratlroad at Wellville and Blacks and Whites. At the latter place a large quantity of public stores were destroyed. On the 15th we passed through Jonesville and camped at Lawrenceville or Brunswick Court-House. Learning that a very superior force of the enemy were collected to oppose us at Belfield we passed to the left, crossing the Weldon and Petersburg road at Jarratts Station, when the track was again torn up, the water-tank destroyed, and near which a splendid pontoon train was burned. We reached Freemans Bridge across the Nottoway shortly after midnight, and the advance, consisting of the First District of Columbia Cavalry, had a slight skirmish with a party of the enem Page 184 184 OPERATIONS IN SE. VA. AND N. C. [CHAP. XLVHI. attempting to destroy it. The rebels were speedily driven away, the bridge repaired, and we crossed about daybreak. Passing near Prince George Court-House we crossed the Norfolk and Petersburg Railroad about noon of the 17th, rendering useless the repairs that had been made after our previous raid, and reached City Point on the afternoon of the same day. The condnct of both officers and men under my command during the march wa~ such as to deserve my warmest commendation. I am, major, very respectfully, your obedient servant NEWTON HALL, Major, commanding Third New York Cavalry. Maj. F. JACOBS, Jr., Commanding First Brigade, Kaut& s Cavalry Division. No. 82. Ueport of Col. Samuel P. Spear, Eleventh Pennsylvania Cavalry, commanding Second Brigade, of operations May 5-17. HDQRS. 2D CAY. BRIG., KAUTZS Div., ~8TH A. C., Bermuda Hundred, Va., May 25, 1864. CAPTAIN: In obedience to instructions received from you as per letter of May 24, 1864, I have the honor to make the following ~re- port: iIiay 5.The Eleventh Pennsylvania Cavalry, excepting one com- pany on detached service, took up the line of march near Ports- mouth, Va., about 5 a. m. Arriving at Bowers Hill, a distance of 4 miles, they were joined by eight companies of the Fifth Pennsyl- vania Cavalry. We then marched direct for Suffolk, where four more companies of the Fifth Pennsylvania Cavalry joined us, making in all twenty-three companies, twelve of the Fifth Pennsyl- vania Cavalry and eleven of the Eleventh Pennsylvania Volunteer Cavalry. With this force I proceeded in the direction of the Black- water River, bivouacking at Andrews Corners. On the morning of May 6 we again started, and by a circuitous route reached Birch Island Bridge, Blackwater River (the Eleventh Pennsylvania Cavalry being in the advance). Here, after a short but determined resistance, we crossed. Lieut. L. F. Prudhomme, my acting assist ant adjutant-general, was severely wounded in the thigh. At this point the carbineers of the Eleventh Pennsylvania Cavalry were dismounted and charged on foot, all under command of Maj. A. J. Ackerly, Eleventh Pennsylvania Cavalry. After crossing the river my brigade proceeded .at once to Wakefield, on the Norfolk and Petersburg Railroad. There the railroad and telegraph line was destroyed, together with a large amount of Confederate Gov- ernment stores. May 7.At daylight my brigade again started, being this day in the rear of the column. Marched direct for Sussex County Court-House. Left it on the left and marched for the Nottoway River to a bridge situated about 4 miles above Jarratts Station, arriving there about dusk. Mean time the command had been di- vided, a portion of it (the First Brigade), with which ~vas the Fifth Pennsylvania Cavalry (one of the regiments of my brigade), goin Page 185 CHAP. XLVIII.) SOUTH SIDt OF TH~ JAMtS. 1 8~ to Stony Creek; the balance of my command (Eleventh Penusylva- nia Cavalry) proceeded to Nottoway River bridge to feel the enemy. After remaining there about an hour the Eleventh Pennsylvania Cavalry withdrew and joined the other regiment, about 9 p. in., near Stony Creek, where all bivouacked. During the day the how- itzers of the Eleventh Pennsylvania were left in the rear, owing to the fact that the horses attached to them gave out. May 8.The brigade took up the line of march about daylight, and went toward Jarratts Station, on the Petersburg and Weldon Railroad, the Eleventh Pennsylvania being in the advance. On ar- riving at the station we were met by a portion of the Holcombe Legion; the carbineers of the Eleventh Pennsylvania Cavalry dis- mounted, and, after a desperate conflict (taking into consideration the number engaged), were repulsed. The Fifth Pennsylvania Cav- alry was then ordered forward (they all carrying carbines), were dismounted, and ordered to charge the enemy. At the same time the howitzers of the Fifth were playing upon the enemy. After a short fight the place was carried; 37 prisoners were taken, among whom were several line officers. Previous to this time about 2 miles of railroad and telegraph line had been destroyed near the station and at it; the office, depot, and a number of public buildings, together with a large amount of Confederate Government stores, were de- stroyed. My brigade was then countermarched and moved toward Nottoway River bridge, the Fifth Pennsylvania marching by file on the railroad, the Eleventh going by the road. A short time served to bring us to the bridge. Here we found the Fifty-ninth Virginia, under command of Colonel Tabb, and a portion of the Holcombe (South Carolina) Legion. Here the Fifth Pennsylvania was dis- mounted and made the first charge. The First Brigade, together with Lieutenant Mortons battery, Eighth New York Artillery, and the howitzers of both cavalry~ regiments (those of the Eleventh Pennsylvania having joined us) assisted in the fight, which lasted about an hour, at the expiration of which time our object was ac- complished and the railroad bridge burned. The brigade then, in conjunction with the First, halted for a few hours, then took up the line of march, and bivouacked at Sussex Court-House. May 9.Marched at daylight, in advance, crossed the Nottoway at Allens Bridge, and took the plank road to Petersburg. When within 9 miles turned to the right; destroyed a culvert on the Nor- folk and Petersburg Railroad; lost 1 man there (prisoner); bivou- acked at Mount Sinai Church. May 10.Reached City Point about 10 a. m. Remained till next day. May 11.Crossed to Bermuda Hundred and bivouacked, and re- mained until morning. May 12.Again left camp. The forces stationed near Bermuda Hundred made a feint, by which we were enabled to pass beyond the enemys lines; reached Chester Station about 2p.m. 3.30 p.m. reached Coalfield Pits, where the Danville railroad was destroyed; bivouacked about 3 miles from Coalfield Pits. May 13.Started about 4 a. m. in the direction of Powhatan Sta- tion, reached there about 8.30 a. in., Fifth Pennsylvania Cavalry in advance, destroyed the railroad, a number of public buildings, and the telegraph line; also seized the apparatus, seized and destroyed eight cars laden with baled hay; also a large amount of corn and other stores. Moved rapidly to the high iron bridge on the Mattoax Page 186 1186 OPERATIONS IN SE. VA. AND N. C. [CHAP. XLVIII. Finding it defended by four pieces of artillery and a regiineift of infantry, moved back and proceeded to Goodes Bridge, 6 miles be- low; found that the bridge ~ad been destroyed. Major Stratton, of the Eleventh Pennsylvania Cavalry, was detailed to superintend its reconstruction, whi5h work he accomplished in three hours. The bridge having been crossed was again destroyed, Eleventh Pennsyl- vania in advance; reached Chula Station about 12.30 p. m. Here the Eleventh Pennsylvania captured a locomotive, which had brought a train of cars loaded with troops to defend the station; bivouacked near there. May 14.Took up the line of march about 4.30 a. in., First Bri- gade in the advance; proceeded to Flat Creek bridge, Eleventh Pennsylvania on left and Third New York on right; deployed to make a demonstration on Flat Creek bridge. Here, after a lively engagement, some men of the Eleventh Pennsylvania were lost; also 1 officer killed in a charge of carbineers; destroyed the railroad and telegraph line at this point for a considerable distance. Was ordered by General Kautz to fall back. Took the road to Bevills Bridge. Captain Bayley, Fifth Pennsylvania Cavalry, in command of advance guard, took charge at Deep Creek bridge. Saw some 30 or 40 rebel cavalry. On arriving at the Petersburg road, the Fifth Pennsylvania Cavalry was pushed as a feint down it, and, after the command passing, it brought up in rear. After leaving this bridge about 3 or 4 miles in our rear, the brigades were separated, the Sec- ond Brigade going to Wilsons to destroy the South Side Railroad at that point, which was effectually done. Here a courier from General Kautz brought an order for us to report with the brigade at Blacks and Whites, to which point the other brigade had gone. This we did, and upon arriving were directed to move out about 3 miles and bivouac, which was done at Booths plantation, about 4 miles from Blacks and Whites Station, on the Sputh Side Railroad. May 15.Started late, marched to Lawrenceville. Nothing im- portant occurred on the way. Bivouacked at the Brunswick County Court-House. In an outbuilding found and destroyed about 125 sacks of salt. This was done by the Eleventh Pennsylvania Cavalry. May 16.Left at daylight. Started on the direct road for Belfield. When within about 4 miles made a detour which brought us to Jarratts Station, the place where the railroad was destroyed by us a short time before. Here nothing was done by us; the First Bri- gade having effectually demolished all Government property, they being in the advamice. Made a forced march to Freemans Bridge, which crossed the Nottoway, which we reached at 3.30 a. m. and crossed; bivouacked at Major Belchers farm. May 17.Started early. Nothing of importance occurred during the day till about 4 p. in., when the command was within a few miles of City Point. Here a small command of 60 or 70 rebel cav- alry charged by a side road, halted within 20 yards of L Company, Eleventh Pennsylvania Cavalry, and delivered a fire from shotguns. The company halted and returned the fire, whereupon the rebels took to the woods. One man killed by a fire from the woods. Ar- rived at City Point and biVouacked. The following is a list of the casualties in my brigade: Eleventh Pennsylvania Cavalry, 1 commissioned officer and 6 privates killed; 1 commissioned officer, II sergeant, and 12 privates wounded. Fifth Pennsylvania Cavalry, 2 men killed, 1 captain and 16 men wounded, and 4 men missing Page 187 18T CHAP. XLVIfl.] SOUTH SIDE OF THE JAMES. The above I believe to be a correct report of the operations of my brigade. Of the Eleventh Pennsylvania I need say nothing as I am colonel of the regiment. All I would say is that they have behaved as usual. To the Fifth Pennsylvania I would particularly call the attention of the commanding general. Every order given them was promptly obeyed, and under fire no regiment could have behaved better. The manner in which the officers and men of this regiment behaved at Jarratts Station and at the taking and destruction of the Nottoway bridge proved the material to be most excellent and deserves my especial commendation. I am, sir, with high respect, your obedient servant, SAML. P. SPEAR, Cot. Eleventh Pa. C~av., Comdg. 2d Brig., Cay. Div. Capt. M. J. ASCH, Aetg. Asst. A~jt. Gem, Kautzs Cavalry Division. No. 83. Report of Lieut. Cot. Christopher Kleinz, Fifth Pennsylvania Gay- airy, of operations May S. HEADQUARTERS FIFTH PENNSYLVANIA CAVALRY, ATear Bermuda Ht~ndred, May 24, 1864. LIEUTENANT: I have the honor to report the following as the operations of my regiment during the late raids: On the morning of the 8th instant, previous to which nothing of importance had occurred during the march, we arrived near Jar- ratts Station, on the Petersburg and Weldon Railroad. The Eleventh Pennsylvania Cavalry, having been repulsed at the sta- tion, my regiment was ordered to the front and directed by Col. S. P. Spear, commanding brigade, to take the place. I dismounted 3 out of 4 of my men, and made such disposition of the led horses as would secure them from the confusion and danger of the fight. The First Battalion was directed by Colonel Spear to be deployed as skirmishers on the left of the railroad. The First Squadron of the Second Battalion I then ordered to deploy on the right of the rail- road, with directions to advance and wheel .to the left so as to take the enemy on the flank and rear. The section of howitzers of my regiment had already been ordered into position and commenced firing, while the line of skirmishers advanced rapidly, attacking the enemy in the most gallant and vigorous manner, the reserves ad- vancing in close supporting distance. The enemy was strongly posted in houses and behind the bank of the railroad, numbering about 500 men, and as we advanced, poured a most terrific fire into my men, who were without cover. At this time I ordered a charge, and with a yell umy men rushed upon the foe, who either surren- dered or fled in wild confusion. We captured 37 prisoners, includ- ing a captain and 2 lieutenants during the engagement, which lasted about three-quarters of an hour. The howitzers of the Eleventh Pennsylvania Cavalry arrived during the engagement and assisted in shelling the enemys position. We immediately proceeded to destroy the depot and railroad buildings with everything that could be of use to the enemy. The following is a list* of the casualties of my * Nominal list (omitted) shows S men wounded and 2 killed Page 188 I 88 OPERATIONS IN SE. VA. AND N. C. [c~. XLVIII. regiment at that place. As soon as the destruction was completed, the dead buried, and the wounded cared for, we were ordered to march in the direction of Nottoway bridge. On arriving near the bridge I was ordered to take a by-road leading to the railroad, striking it about 1 mile below and southeast of the bridge. Here, by direction of Col- onel Spear, I dismounted my men, preparing to fight on foot, and foand the enemys skirmishers directly in my front. All my dis- mounted men, with the exception of about one squadron for the pro- tection of the led horses, were formed in column, and under the personal command of Colonel Spear dashed through the enemys skirmishers on a double-quick in the direction of the bridge, which was held by a regiment of the enemys infantry in a strong earth- work. The attention of the enemy had been p reviously engaged by the dismounted men of the Third New York Cavalry and First Dis- trict of Columbia Cavalry, and were being shelled by our artillery. My men were ordered to move directly and rapidly on the bridge and destroy it. This they did with so much impetuosity that noth- ing could impede their way, and while a strong party of the rebels were yet on the bridge, it was taken by my men and the enemy found there captured. The bridge was fired by Company G, of my regiment, commanded by Captain Ker, under a most galling fire. After this was accomplished my men were ordered to retire, which they did slowly and in good order. I captured 23 prisoners during this engagement, 1 being a captain. The enemys loss was very heavy from the fact that they were driven for a mile so closely that they were not able to fire a shot, while my men were deliberately shooting them down. The loss in my regiment at that place was as follows: Killed, 1; wounded, 9. On the second raid I lost 1 man, Private Patrick Gartland, severely wounded by an attack made by bushwackers near the Petersburg and Weldon turnpike. The following is a statement of the casual- ties in my regiment during the late raids: Two men killed, 1 cap- tain and 16 men wounded, and 4 men missing. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, C. KLEINZ, Lieut. J. D. MAHON, Major, Commanding. Actg. Asst. Adjt. Gen., Cavalry Brigade. No. 84. Report of Lieut. Col. George Stetzel, Eleventh Pennsylvania Cav alry, of operations May 517.. HDQRS. ELEVENTH PENNSYLX#ANIA VOL. CAVALRY, Near Bermuda Hundred, Va., May 24. 1864. COLONEL: Pursuant to orders from headquarters Second Brigade, Kautzs division, Eighteenth Army Corps, I have the honor to trans- mit the following report of the operations of my regiment in the recent raid commanded by Brig. Geri. A. V. Kautz: My regiment left Portsmouth, Va., in light marching order May 5 -at sunrise. Arrived at Andrews Corners at sundown; bivouacked until 12 oclock midnight. Marched thence via Wiidsor, near Syca- more Church, Isle of Wight Court-House, to Fearnsville, where we arrived at 10. a. m. May 6. After feeding resumed march, via Cy- press Church, Cypress Swamp bridge, to Birch Island Bridge, acros Page 189 CRAP. XLVIII.] SOUTH SIDE OF THE JAMES. 189 the Blackwater River. At this point the advance guard discovered a small party of rebels engaged in destroying the bridge. The ad- vance guard, composed of a portion of Corn p any A, Eleventh Penn- sylvania Volunteer Cavalry, immediately dismounted and charged upon the bridge, driving the rebels from their position. Lient. L. F. Prudhom me, acting assistant adjutant-general to Col. S. P. Spear, commanding Second Brigade, was severely wounded. No other cas- ualties in my regiment. We crossed the bridge at about 5 p. m. Thence continued to Wakefield Station, arriving there at 6.30 p. in., my regiment being in advance since leaving Portsmouth. Biv- ouacked until 4 a. m. May 7, my regiment in rear. Crossed the Not- toway at Peters Bridge. About noon arrived at the Nottoway rail- road bridge (Petersburg and Weldon Railroad). At sundown found the enemy in force at the bridge and on the railroad; also discov- ered a large train of cars which had but recently arrived from Wel- don, N. C., loaded with troops. Received orders from the colonel commanding brigade to prepare to attack the enemy. I immediately ordered my carbineers to dismount, form in line of battle, and await further instructions. The brigade commander, in his judgment, deemed it best not to attack the enemy in consequence of the ap- proaching darkness. I then received orders to return up the river road about 2 miles and bivouacked at 8 p. in. At 3 a. in. received orders to march to Jarratts Station, about 4 miles down the river road, past the Nottoway bridge. Arrived at Jarratts Station soon after daylight. Was directed by Colonel Spear to send forward all my carbineers to attack the enemy, who were in superior force in a strong position at the station. My carbineers made two distinct charges. but each time were repulsed, owing to superior numbers and to the concentrated fire of the enemy. I received instructions from the brigade commander to fall back along the railroad and commence destroying it until re-enforcements arrived, when Jarratts Station would again be attacked. I placed a large body of men in charge of Maj. F. A. Stratton, Eleventh Pennsylvania Volunteer Cavalry, with instructions to tear up the track and twist the rails. Said duty was effectually performed by Major Stratton. Some time during the day the Fifth Pennsylvania Volunteer Cavalry arrived, which, together with all my carbiiieers, including two howitzers of my regiment, made the second attack upon Jarratts Station, driving the enemy, capturing 37 prisoners, among them several officers, com- pletely destroying the station, containing a large amount of rebel Government stores. After the destruction of Jarratts Station I was ordered by the brigade commander to semid two companies of niy reg- iment down the railroad toward Nottoway railroad bridge and to I)roceed with the remainder of my regiment (seven companies) and attack the enemy at the Nottoway railroad bridge at the point where the line was first formed on the evening of the 7th. At this point found the general commanding already engaged with the enemy. The enemy was charged from the railroad, driven across the bridge, and the structure completely destroyed. I received orders from the general commanding to communicate by flag of truce with the officer commanding the rebel forces, and, if possible, effect an exchange of prisoners, it having been ascertained that a few of our men had fallen into the hands of. the enemy. I found upon communicating with Col. William B. Tabb, of the Fifty-ninth Virginia, commanding the rebel forces that he had but 1 officer and 4 privates in his possession ~is prisoners. The officer and 2 of the privates were severely wounded Page 190 190 OPERATIONS IN SE. VA. AND N. C. [CHAP. XLVIII. Having carried out my instructions I returned and reported in per- son to the commanding general, from whom I received orders to mount my regiment and take up the line of march, arriving at Sus- sex Court-House at dark. Soon after arrival at Court-House I sent two companies to take possession of and hold Allens Bridge across the Nottoway River about 6 miles from the Court-House. At 3 a. m. May 9 marched via Allens Bridge (which I repaired), my regiment in advance, to the plank road east of the Nottoway, there turned to the left and followed that road to within 9 Tniles of Petersburg (mak- ing a rapid march of 25 miles without halting and a very hot day), there turned to the right, crossed the Petersburg and Norfolk Rail- road, destroyed a stringer bridge 35 feet long, crossed the Blackwater, and encamped 2 or 3 miles beyond at Mount Sinai Church, 10 miles from City Point. May 10, resumed march, arriving at City Point about noon; en- camped at City Point. Left City Point May 11. Crossed the river at Bermuda Hundred and bivouacked about 4 miles from Bermuda Hundred. Received an order to detail two companies of my regi- ment to report to General Smith, which detail I filled with Companies B and H. May 12, resumed march, crossed the Norfolk and Peters- burg Railroad at Chester Station; arrived at Coalfield Station on Richmond and Danville Railroad. The station was destroyed; biv- ouacked on tie roadside until daylight. May 13, arrived at Pow- hatan Station, on Danville and Richmond Railroad; burned fifteen double cars loaded with bale straw; burned the station, containing a large amount of Government stores; also tore up a large track of railroad. Arrived at Goodes Bridge; on the Appomattox River; found the bridge partially destroyed by the citizens. Repaired the bridge and succeeded in crossing at dusk. Arrived at Chula Station during the night. Bivouacked until daylight, found the enemy in the vicinity of the station, destroyed one locomotive, and captured several prisoners. May 14, engaged the enemy at Light [Flat Creek] Bridge. Found the enemy in strong position; had quite a brisk skirmish, in which we lost several men killed and wounded. Among the killed was Lient. Daniel H. Schriver. Finding we could not remove the enemy from their strong position we were ordered to fall back. The station was destroyed, and we resumed the march to Wellville Station, on the Lynchburg and Petersburg Railroad. On approaching within 4 or 5 miles of Wellville Station my regiment was detached and ordered to procee~1 to Wilsons Station, 4 miles above Wellville Station, destroying said station and tearing up con- siderable of the railroad track and burning a large quantity of wood. Thence we proceeded to Blacks and Whites Station, destroying it and a large amount of rebel stores; bivouacked for the night 5 miles from Blacks and Whites Station. May iS, resumed the march to within 7 miles of Hicksford, turned to the left, and proceeded to Jarratts Station; destroyed said station the second time. Bivouacked at Freemans Bridge across the Nottoway, which had been destroyed. The bridge was repaired and the command crossed. May 17, re- turned to City Point about 8 p. m. On arriving within 7 or 8 miles of City Point the rear of my regiment was attacked by 75 or 100 rebel cavalry, killing 1 man. I started in pursuit of the rebels, but failed to overtake them. The following is a correct list of killed and wounded :* * Nominal list (omitted) shows ~ officer and 6 enlisted men killed, and 13 men wounded Page 191 CH~ XLVIII.] SOUTH SIDE OF THE JAMES. 1.91 The following is a correct list of horses lost and abandoned: Nitie killed in action, 45 necessarily abandoned and died along the road.. side. GEO. STETZEL, Lieutenant-Colonel, Commanding Regiment. Col. S. P. SPEAR, Comdg. Second Cavalry Brigade. No. 85. Report of Col. Henry L. Abbot, First Connecticut Heavy Artil lery, commanding Siege Train and Siege Artillery, of operations May 10-June 4. HDQRS. SIEGE TRAIN AND SIEGE ARTILLERY, Broadway Landing, Va., December 5, 1864. GENERAL: In accordance with your instructions I have the honor to submit the following report upon the operations of my command from the opening of the campaign in May to the 31st day of Octo- ber. It comprises all the siege artillery in front of Richmond, and hence has served in part with the Army of the James and in part with the Army of the Potomac. Finding it impossible to subdivide its operations in a satisfactory manner, I have made this report a complete record of the Siege Artillery in front of Richmond: On April 20, 1864, I received a confidential memorandum from Major-General Halleck, chief of staff, Armies of the United States, di- recting me to organize a siege train. I was informed that this memor- andum was based upon a project drawn up by Brig. Gen. H. J. Hunt, chief of artillery, Army of the Potomac, and that it was intended to order me to report to him when the train was bronght into use. Its composition was the following, viz: Forty rifled siege guns (4-i-inch ordnance or 30-pounder Parrotts), ten 10-inch mortars, twenty 8-inch mortars, twenty Coehorn mortars, with a reserve of six 100-pounder Parrotts. Subsequently ten 8-inch siege howitzers were added to the list. The necessary mortar wagons, battery wagons, forges, & c., were to be provided, together with the following supply of ammuni- tion: One thousand rounds per gun, except the 100-pounders, which were to have 500 rounds each, 600 rounds per heavy mortar, and 200 rounds per Coehorn. All this train was to be afloat at the Washing- ton Arsenal as soon as possible; and twenty siege guns complete, with 200 rounds each, were to be afloat at that depot by April 30 without fail. Very little of -this material was in depot at the Wash- ington Arsenal, but it was collected from all qnarters with great rapidity by the Ordnance Department. About a dozen schooners of about 200 tons burden were furnished without delay by the Quarter- masters Department. I detailed Capt. S. P. Hatfield, First Con- necticut Artillery, as ordnance officer of the train, and placed him at the arsenal, assisted by First Lieut. L. W. Jackson, to superintend the loading. As the ordnance arrived it was promptly placed on the schooners. The decks were shored up and ten 30-pounder guns placed amid-ships side by side, resting on skids. Their carriages, platforms, and 3,000 rounds of ammunition complete were packed in the hold. The masts and rigging afforded facilities for loading this m~terial Page 192 192 OPERATIONS IN SE. VA. AND N. C. [CHAP. XLVIII. and rendered the schooners far superior to the canal barges used for the siege train of 1& 62. The 10-iiich mortars with 2,200 rounds were loaded on one schooner; the 8-inch mortars with 2,300 rounds, together with the Coehorn mortars, were loaded on another; the 8-inch howit- zers, with their carriages, the mortar wagons, platforms, and miscel- laneous articles filled another; the six 100-pounders with 2,000 rounds loaded another. The rest of the vessels carried ammunition, & c. This material was essentially afloat by May 10. On that date my re~riment, the First Connecticut Artillery, was ordered forward in advance of the train to report for duty to Major-General Butler, then near Bermuda Hundred, Va. We arrived on May 13, about 1,700 strong, but 349 men were dis- charged in ten days on account of expiration of term of service. I had been notified by General Halleck that if General Butler desired it, a part of my train might be sent forward at once. Upon landing, however, I found four 30-pounder Parrotts and five 20-pounder Parrotts already disembarked, and as other pieces were subsequently received from Fort Monroe, this was not jndged necessary. On May 14 I was ordered to report to Colonel Howell, Eighty- fifth Pennsylvania, commanding the line of defenses of Bermuda Hundred. My regiment was at once put to work getting the heavy gnns into position, making magazines, strengthening the line, & c. On May 16 the main army fell back to the line of intrenchments. On May 17 General Butler placed me in command of the siege artillery of his army, then consisting of my regiment and Company M, Third Pennsylvania Artillery, Captain Korte, serving two 8-inch howitzers, ordering me to report direct to his headquarters. First Lient. W. C. Faxon was immediately detailed by me as ordnance officer, assisted by First Lieut. C. Gillett. A reserve depot of am- munition, to consist of 100 rounds per gun, was established near Hatchers house, and a regular system of supply for the batteries was organized. From this date, until the arrival of the Army of the Potomac in the latter part of June, a heavy artillery fire was kept up much of the time along the lines. On May 20 a strong demonstration was made by the enemy upon our position, in which they drove in the pickets, but were repulsed on the left by the ariA- lery fire of the works, and on the right (in woods) by the First Division, Tenth Corps. My guns in position were then the fol- lowing: N ~ o 0 ~ N N S S .~ .~ ~ Batteries. .~ ~n ~ 0 0 0 0 o o ~ o P 0 g P ~ Battery Drake 3 2 Battery Perry 2 Battery Anderson 2 2 BatteryPruyn 2 1 2 1 Total 4 5 2 2j 1~ 17 4 6 The fire of those guns bearing on the point of attack (ten in num- ~er) was effectivQ and contributed mtich to the easy repulse of th Page 193 CHM. XLVIII.] SOUTH SIDE OF THE JAMES. 193 enemy. On May 24 the rebels made a determined attack upon Wilsons Landing, on James River, garrisoned chiefly by colored troops. The mail-boat was stopped and all the troops on board were landed to meet the assault. Among them were 6 enlisted men of the First Connecticut Artillery, returning from veteran volunteer furlough. Although no officer of the regiment was present, these men volunteered to serve a 10-pounder Parrott then silenced, and did so so effectively as to contribute materially to the repulse of the rebels. They fired about 80 rounds, some being double-shotted can- ister, at about 200 yards range, and their gun was the only one not silenced by the enemy. The names of these brave soldiers are Sergt. W. H. H. Bingham, Company G; Privates W. B. Watson, Company H, James Kelly (since killed by a shell in front of Petersburg), H. G. Scott, James R. Young, and John Keaton, of Company I. On May 2~i Company G, First Connecticut Artillery, Captain Osborne, was placed with two 20-pounder Parrotts in Fort Converse, on right bank of Appomattox River. Subsequently two 30-pounder Parrotts were added. They did good servide in repelling an attack on May 31, and also in occasionally shelling Fort Clifton from an advanced position on the river-bank. On May 26 Major-General Gillmore was placed in command of the whole line. On the 29th he appointed me his chief of artillery, and on June 1 his acting chief engineer. There were at this time beside my siege guns eight light batteries in Terrys division and six light batteries, with eight mounted howitzers in addition, in Turners division. Total, eighty-two light guns. On June 2 the rebels made a strong demonstration on our lines: Previously (on May 21) Company L, First Connecticut Artillery, Captain Pride, had been placed in the advanced redoubt, Dutton, theii partially completed, with two 3-pounders and one 24-pounder brass howitzers, and had energetically proceeded to put the work in fighting condition. After driving in the picket-lines on June 2 the Twenty-second South Carolina Regiment, Colonel Dantzler, made a determined assault upon this redoubt. It was repulsed with severe loss by canister fire, the colonel himself being among the killed, of whom 17 were counted. So demoralized was his command that a lieutenant and 22 enlisted men surrendered to the garrison rather than attempt to retreat under the fire. They were brought in with their arms by a detachment of Company L, First Connecticut Artil- lery, and some dismounted cavalry, serving as infantry supports. On June 4 a platoon of Company H, First Connecticut Artillery, with one 30-pounder Parrott, with Ashbys battery of four 20- pounder Parrotts, was placed under command of First Lieut. George Dimock, First Connecticut Artillery, in Battery Spofford. Subse- quently, after several changes, this armament was finally fixed at one 100-pounder Parrott and three 4~-inch guns, all served by Lieu- tenant Dimocks platoon. ~ I have the honor to be, general, very respectfully, your obedient servant, HENRY L. ABBOT, Colonel First Connecticut Artillery, Comdg. Siege Artillery. Brig. Gen. J. W. TURNER, Chief of Staff. * For continuation of report, see Vol. XL, Part I. 13 R Rvob xxxvi, PT I Page 194 194 OPERATIONS LN SE. VA. AND N. C. [CHAP. XLVIII. No. 86. Report of Capt. William U. Pride, First Connecticut Heavy Artil- lery, of operations June 2. BATTERY PRIDE (Redoubt Dutton), June 6, 1864. SIR: I have the honor to report that on the morning of June 2, 1864, between the hours of 5 and 6 a. in., the enemy appeared and drove in the pickets on our front, composed of the Seventh Con- necticut, and compelled them to take shelter under the guns of this redoubt. After some brisk skirmishing the rebels appeared in numbers at the edge of the woods to the right and opposite our front, and I opened upon them a fire of canister, which made them beat a hasty retreat. Finding they did not advance, I ordered for- ward about 40 men of the cavalry supports under a lieutenant and 21 men from Company L, under the first sergeant, with instructions to form a junction with our pickets on the left. Judging that this support was not enough I sent forward the remainder of Company L. under Lieutenant Rogers (retaining 21 men, sufficient to serve the pieces in the fort), with orders to deploy on the right. At this moment I discovered a white flag waving in the bushes at the spot at which the canister had been fired. The line of skirmishers ad- vanced, and on coming up to the flag they foumid a squad of time enemy comicealed in the underbrush ,wh o were ordered to surrender which they accordingly did by giving up their arms. I cannot state positively which party came upon the prisoners first, as they were comisiderably scattered through the edoe of the woods and kept coin- 0 ing in until the whole number (23) had arrived. I may state here that there was not a rifle fired by either Company L or the cavalry support, and that these prisoners were captured merely because, being under a direct fire from our howitzers, there was no way of retreat for them without causing a heavy loss of life on their part. This fact they acknowledged to me. In the mean time my 21 men, under the first sergeamit, on the left and the cavalry supports in the center, had advanced and occupied without resistance our original picket-line. On the right I had instructed Lieutenant Rogers not to advamice up to the rifle-pits, fearing they might be in the woods in force, as it was at this point that the enemy had advanced to the attack. The pickets of the Seventh Regiment at this time lay just in advance of the fort in charge of a captain and lieutenant, to whom I went and ordered them to rally their men and advance to their original line, also telling them that I had sent out sufficient force to hold the picket-post. They then advanced beyond Lieuten- ant Rogers line of skirmishers, but tIme captain in charge of the Seventh Connecticut remarking that lie could not hold the line with- out assistance, Lieutenant Rogers advanced his men in conjunction with the Seventh and posted them in the rifle-pits. I then sent a dispatch to General Terry statimig time circuinstamices alid asking for sufficient force to relieve my memi amid time supports. Company L men were relieved in the course of half an hour, the cavalry re- inaining an hour longer. In this affair we sustained no casualties, although by all accounts the enemy suffered severely from our destructive fire of canister. The body of Colonel Dantzler, Twenty-second Sdutlm Carohimma Regi- inent, was brought in by 2 men from Company L, and 2 cavalrynme Page 195 CHAP. XLVIII.] SOUTH SIDE OF THE JAMES. 195 under charge of one of my sergeants, who also took charge of his personal effects, excepting a gold watch, which was taken from his person by one of the men of the Seventh Connecticnt and afterward sent for by me and received by the captain in charge of the cavalry snpports, all of which were forwarded from this post with the body. I am, sir, most respectfully, yours, WM. G. PRIDE, Captain Company L, First Connecticut Artillery. First Lieut. B. P. LEARNED, Adjutant. No. 87. Report of ~Jol. George 1Y. Cole, Second U. S. Colored Cavalry (unattached), of operations May 13-15. CAMP NEAR POINT OF ROCKS, May 23, 1864. COLONEL: I have the honor to report that having reported to Major-General Smith on the 13tl~, near Half-Way House, I was ordered to picket from the right of the infantry line to the river, and the line was traced for me by one of General Smiths staff by his order. I halted my command on the hill to the right of the gen- erals headquarters for the night, and in the morning moved down to the edge of the woods, near the front of which, about 800 yards, was Heckmans brigade in line, and there bivouacked on the road lead- ing direct to time front, abont 300 yards from the edge of the woods on the right, between which and the James River were open, rolling fields, with a ravine in front, wooded, and scarcely passable. My picket-line commenced on the right of the infantry line and ex- tended thence to the right and some to the rear to the river, and one post to watch the river and across, the left of my line resting on the edge of the woods and about 10 paces from the right infantry post. Thus it remained during Sunday, the 15th, varied by occa- sional shelling from a rebel boat on the river and rumors of a force across the river, which I at the time examined and found to be ground- less, as often during the day. Finding my line did not seem to be ob- served by any officer of the day at about 3 oclock I ordered Captain Tucker, Troop E (officer of the day for me), to p lace a movable sen- tinel also on post to the left, whose duty should be to ~ee that full communication was kept up with the infantry line, and also ordered a picket reserve to be kept with a howitzer on the edge of the woods in time field, about 500 yards in rear of my left post, to sweep the field if need be amid cover the falling back of my pickets. The remaining howitzer and men I kept at the bivouac on the road. Early in the morning I heard a furious firing amid charge directly in the road in front of my camp and to the left of it. Expecting a cavalry dash down the road I had my men in line at the edge of the wood and my howitzer ready to sweep the road, and sent Captain Wilson and Lieutenant Howard to strengthen the reserve and have the line fall back as fast as the infantry line did. Captain Wilson found the cavalry picket-line unmoved in time fog and drew it back some 300 yards on the left, and fearing to lose the howitzer ordered Lieutenant Hughes, commanding it, to report to me, which, hearin Page 196 196 OPERATIOM3 IN SE. VA. AND N. C. [CHAP. XLVIIL the charge and fighting on his left, he did not do, bnt moved back across the field half a mile. My command and howitzer, still keep- ing close to the woods, escaped harm from the enemys shells, as they passed over mostly, except 1 horse killed and Surgeon Manly wounded. The left post of my line at this time captured 3 prisoners, lost in the fog. Here my line and command remained until after the fight was mostly over, when I was ordered by an aide to place my men back of the artillery and infantry in position in the field in my rear. I moved my command back 500 yards in cover of a ravine and waited orders. Captain ,General Smiths aide, then ordered me to make a new line of pickets in rear of the creek and traced this line, which I did, moving my command on the hill in rear. Here I soon received orders to move to the front and did so, except the new picket-line, and reported in person to General Smith. Being ordered, charged one squadron in skirmish line on some houses near my former reserve station, failing to dislodge entirely some sharpshooters in the log buildings. Lost 1 man wounded and 1 horse shot. Having rallied, was ordered by Captain ,aide to General Smith, to make a reconnaissance to the front and right; did so, and found about a regiment of rebel cavalry iii line and close column beyond the ravine (formerly our front line) on the right. My skirmishers fired into them and skirmishing ten or fifteen minutes found my reserve shelled by the rebel boat. Again drew back to the hue of infantry skirmishers. Then reported to General Weitzel, and as skirmishers, with some of the Eleventh Pennsylvania, covered the retiring columii under considerable firing, but no damage was done. I omitted to mention that the two regiments after first sent down to General Heckmaiis support did not form line facing the enemy, but the river, and in answer to my inquiry as to why, said that two bri- gades of the enemy were oii our right, and upon my assurance that my line was entire and far to our front, changed his base and fronted the woods, forming line of battle 200 or 300 yards in rear of my command. I think it was Colonel Drakes command. This line soon fell back to the edge of the field, near where I reported in per- son to General Smith for orders oii the 16th. At no time was there more than 100, or thereabouts, of the enemy visible on the other side of the river, or any boats except the small gun-boat and two or three skiffs, nor for about a mile above our post, so far as the river was visible, no bridge nor sign of crossing. I have the honor to submit the above report. With sincere respect, yours, GEO. W. COLE, Colonel Second U. S. Colored Cavalry. Lieutenant-Colonel BOWEN, Assistant Adjutant-General. No. 88. Reports of General G. T. Beauregard, C. S. Army, commanding Department of North Carolina and Southern Virginia, of oper- ations May 16-June 2. DREWRYS BLUFF, May 16, 1864. It is 8.30 oclock. Our progress is very satisfactory. Ransom turned enemys James River flank early this morning, and is driv- ing him toward our right. We hold well on the right, and ar Page 197 CHAP. XLVIII.] SOUTH SIDE OF THE JAMES. 197 pressing the enemy back in front of our center, disabling and captur- ing some artillery. Ransom stormed breast-works; took 4 stand of colors and about 300 prisoners. Our losses, on the whole, appear not to be heavy. I think I can rely on Whitings support. Distant firing now heard in direction of Petersbnrg. G.~T. BEAUREGARD. General BRAXTON BRAGG. DREWRYS BLUFF. May 16, 1864. It is now 9.45 oclock. Ransom has been delayed to replenish ammunition. When he comes np I will push the enemy. For future movements we want ordnance supplies of all sorts, especially for infantry, forwarded instantly. I hope soon to niake a junction with Whiting. Our captures of prisoners are considerable, with some artillery; numbers not yet known. G. T. BEAUREGARD. General BRAXTON BRAGG. HEADQUARTERS ARMIES CONFEDERATE STATES, Richmond, May 18, 1864. Copy of telegram dated Drewrys Bluff, May 16, 1864, received May 16, 1864, viz: Since my dispatch of 8.30 a. in., announcing the success of General Ransom on our left, General Ilokes division, supported by General Colquitts reserve, attack- ing the enemy in force on the right, has driven him back, capturing several siege field pieces and many prisoners. Both of these commands have acted gallantly, and with brilliant success. G. T. BEAUREGARD. General BRAGG. DREWEYS BLUFF, May 17, 1864. P. 5.I send a supplementary dispatch to complete the telegram received of yesterdays battle. Please have published, as it is due to Hoke and Colquitt. Respectfully submitted to the Adjutant-General for his informa- tion. JNO. B. SALE, clolortel and Military Secretary. DREWRY5 BLUFF, May 16, 1864. GENERAL: It is now 1.15 oclock. No material change since last dispatch. We occupy the outer lines. The enemy still in our front with open ground between. We are preparing for a combined attack by reorganization of commands somewhat scattered by frequent de- tachments and thick woods. Some of the brigades are much cut up. The position of things is too uncertain as yet for me to advance any such detachment of force to the interior as you propose. I hear nothing yet of Whitings movements. I am on the turnpike at outer line forts. G. T. BEAUREGARD. General B. BRAGG, Corn m anding General Page 198 198 OPERATIONS IN SE. VA. AND N. C. [CHAP. XLVIIL DREWRYS BLUFF, May 16, 1864. GENERAL: It is 5.4~i p. m. The enemy have been driven from our right to south side of Proctors Creek and east of railroad; also from our immediate vicinity on turnpike. I am organizing combined at- tack on line of Proctors Creek, and hope good results. The move- ment has commenced, Hiough late. We shall occupy the works on hill west of railroad. Nothing positive as to position of Whiting save the knowledge that he was at Port Walthall Station this morn- ing at 10 oclock. G. T. BEAUREGARD. General B. BRAGG, Gommanding General. HEADQUARTERS ARMIES CONFEDERATE STATES, Richmond, May 18, 1864. Copy of telegram dated Drewrys, May 16, 1864, 9.30 p. in., received May 16, 1864, 10.~0 p. in., viz: The approach of darkness made it imprudent to execute this evening the plan set forth in my dispatch of 5.45 p. m. It will be prosecuted without variation, com- mencing at daylight to-morrow and I hope to have the co-operation of General Whiting. Have sent several dispatches to urge it. G. T. BEAUREGARD. General BRAGG. Respectfully submitted to the Adjutant-General for his informa- tion. JNO. B. SALE, Colonel and Military Secretary. HEADQUARTERS ARMIES CONFEDERATE STATES, Richmond, May 18, 1864. Copy of telegram dated Hancocks house, 2~- miles north of Wal- thall Junction, via Drewrys Bluff, May 17, 1864, 11 p. in., received May 17, 1864, viz: The enemy has retired to his lines across the Neck; our forces are in position in his front. His lines of skirmishers will be driven about daybreak to-morrow to de- termine location and strength of his works. A battery of field rifled pieces has been ordered to be constructed at Howletts to command the James River, so as to prevent his passage of transports. The junction with Whitings forces was made about midday. They formed my right wing. G. T. BEAUREGARD, General. General f~RAGG. Respectfully submitted to the Adjutant-General for his informa- tion. JNO. B. SALE, Colonel and Military Secretary. HANCOCKS HOUSE, June 2, 18649 a. m. GENERAL: Enemys advanced line of rifle-pits near Ware Bottom Church were taken this morning with about 100 prisoners from Seventh Connecticut. Our loss is trifling. G. T. BEAUREGARD. General B. BRAGG Page 199 SOIJTII SIIYE OF ~PIII~ JAMIF~S~ 19~ HEADQUARTERS iN THE FIELD, Swift Greek, Va., June 10, 1864. GENERAL: While we were hurriedly assembling by fragments an army weak in numbers, and wanting the cohesive force of previous organization and association, the enemy, operating from his fortified base at Bermuda Hundred Neck, had destroyed much of the Rich- mond and Petersburg Railroad, and occupied the main lines of coin- munication from the capital southward, and menaced its river gate (Drewrys Bluff) and sohth-side land defenses with a formidable army and fleet. In these conditions the possession of our line of communication southward became the main point of contest. To wrest it from the enemy I selected a course which promised the most fertile results, that of capturing or destroying his army in its actual position, after cutting him off from his base of operations; or, fail- ing in this, of robbing him of future power to control or obstruct our communications by driving him before our front and locking him up in his fortified cam p at Berniuda Hundred Neck. Our army was organize d into three divisions (right, left, and re- serve), under Major-Generals Hoke and Ransom and Brigadier-Gen- eral Colquitt. The general direction of the roads and adj~cent river was north and south, the general alignment of both armies east and west. Our left wing (Ransom) lay behind the trenches on Kings- land Creek, which runs an easterly course, not far in front of Drewrys Bluff. Our right wing (Hoke) occupied the interme(liat~ line of fortifications from Fort Stevens, crossing the turnpike to the railroad. Colquitts reserve, in rear of Hoke, centered at the turn- pike. The cavalry were posted on our flanks amid in reserve, amid the artillery distributed among the divisions. A column from Petersburg, under Major-General Whiting, had been directed to proceed to Swift Creek, on the turnpike, over 3 miles from Petersburg and 9 from my hues, and was uil(ier orders to ad- vance at daybreak to Port Waithall Junction, 3 miles nearer. The hue of the enemys forces, under Butler, comprising the corps of Gilhmnore and ~. F. Smith (Tenth and Eighteenth), wa~ generally parallel to our intermediate line of works, sonmewhat curved, con- centric, and exterior to our own. They held our own outei line of works, crossimug time turnpike half a mile in our front. Their line of breast-works anti intrenchmnents increased in strength with its prog- ress westwar(i an(l northward; its right and weakest point was in the edge of William Gregorys woods, about half a mile west of Janmes Rjver. The line of hostile breast-works from their right flank continued westwardly, intersecting the turnpike near our outer line of fortifications. Near this point of intersection at Charles Friends farm was advantageously posted a force of the enemy throughout the days struggle, and here are said to have been the headquarters of Generals Butler and Smith. Butlers lines thence following partly the course of our outer works, crossed them and ran westwardly through fields and woods until after crossing the railroad, when his extreme left inclined to the north. With the foregoing data I (letermined upon the followiuug plan: That our left wing, turning amid hurled upon Butlers weak right, should with crushing force (louble it back on its center, thus imuter- posing an easterly barrier between Butler and his base; that our right wing should, simultaneously with its skirmishers, and after- ward in force, as soon as the left became fully engaged, advance and occupy the enemy to prevent his re-enforcing his right and thu Page 200 200 OPERATIONS IN SE. VA. AND N. 0. [CHAP. XLVIII. form his northern barrier, without, however, prematurely seeking to force him far back before our left could completely outflank him and our Petersburg column close up on his rear; and, finally, that the Petersburg column, marching to the sound of heaviest firing, should interpose a southern barrier to his retreat. Butler, thus en- vironed by three walls of fire, with his defeated troops, could have no resource against substantial capture or destruction, except in an attempt at partial and hazardous escape westward, away from his base, trains, or supplies. Two difficulties alone might impede or defeat the success of this plan. One was a possible stubborn and effective resistance by the enemy, in virtue of his superior numbers. Another (probably a graver one) existed as to the efficient, rapid handling of a fragmentary army like ours, so hastily assembled and organizedhalf the brigades without general officers, some of the troops unacquainted with their commanders and neighbors, staff officers unknown to each other, & c. The moral force which tells so significantly of the unity which springs from old association was entirely wanting, and from these causes, generally so productive of confusion and entanglement, great inconvenience arose. On the other hand, I reckoned on the advantages of being all in readiness at daybreak, with short distances over which to operate, a long day before me to maneuver in, plain, direct routes, and simplicity in the movements to be executed. Accordingly, at 10.45 a. m. on May 15, preparatory information and orders were forwarded to Major-General Whiting, then at Peters- burg, 12 miles from me, with instructions to move his force to Swift Creek, 3 miles nearer, during the night, and at daybreak next morn- ing to proceed to Port W~idthall Junction, about :3 miles still nearer. These instructions were duly received by that officer, and were as follows: I shall attack enemy in my front to-morrow at daybreak by river road, to cut him off from his Bermuda base. You will take up your position to-night at Swift Creek with Wises, Martins, Dearings [brigades], and two regiments of Colquitts brigade, with about twenty field pieces, under Colonel Jones. At daybreak you will march to Port Walthall Junction, and when you hear an engagement in your front you will advance boldly and rapidly by the shorkst road in the direction of heaviest firing, to attack enemy in rear or flank. You will pro- tect your advance and flanks with Dearings cavalry, taking necessary precautions to distinguish friends from foes. Please communicate this to General Hill. This revokes all former orders of movements. G. T. BEAUREGARD, General, Commanding. P. S.I have just received a telegram from General Bragg, informing me that he has sent you orders to join me at this place. You need not do so, but follow to the letter the above instructions. G. T. B. In the early afternoon I delivered in person to the other division commanders assembled the following circular instructions of battle, with additional oral instructions to Major-General Ransom, that while driving I~he enemy he should promptly occupy with a brigade the crossing of Proctors Creek by the river road, which was the enemys shortest line of retreat to Bermuda Hundred Neck: CIRCULAR.] HDQR5. DEPT. OF NORTH CAROLINA AND SOUTHERN VIRaINIA, Drewrys Farm, May 15, 1864. GENERAL: The following instructions for battle to-morrow are communicated for your information and action: The purpose of the movement is to cut off the enemy from his base of operations at Bermuda Hundred, and capture or destroy him in his present position. To thi Page 201 CHAP. XLVIII.] SOUTH SIDE OF THE JAMES. 201 end we shall attack and turn by the river road his right flank, now resting on James River, while his center and left flank are kept engaged to prevent him from re-en- forcing his right flank. Major-General Ransoms division will to-night take position, the most favorable for attack, on the enemys right flankto be made by him at daybreak to-morrow morning. His skirmishers will drive back vigorously those of the enemy in his front, and will be followed closely by his line of battle, which will, at the proper time, pivot on its right flank, so as to take the enemy in flank and rear. He will form in two lines of battle and will use his battalion of artillery to the best advantage. Colonel Dunovants regiment of cavalry will move with this division under the direction of General Ransom. Major-General Hokes division, now in the trenches on the right of the position herein assigned to General Ransom, will, at daylight, engage the enemy with a heavy line of skirmishers, and will hold the rest of his forces in hand ready to attack with vigor the enemys line in bis front as soon as he shall find it wavering before his skirmishers, or so soon as Ransoms line of battle shall have become fairly engaged with the enemy. General Hoke will form in two lines of battle, 400 yards apart, in front of his trenches at the proper time, and in such manner as not to delay his forward movement. He will use his battalion of artillery to the best advantage. Colonel Bakers regiment of cavalry will move in conjunction with Hokes division, so as to protect his right flank. He will receive more definite instructions from Major-General Hoke. Colonel Shinglers regiment of cavalry will move with the reserve division. The division commanded by Brigadier-General Colquitt will constitute the re- serve, and will to-night form in column by brigades in rear of Hokes present posi- tion, time center of each brigade resting on the turnpike. The division will be massed under cover of the hills now occupied by Hokes troops, so as to be sheltered at time outset from the enemys fire in front. During the movement the head of the reserve column will be kept at a distance of about 500 yards from Hokes second line of battle. As soon as practicable, the intervals between the brigades of the reserve division will be maintained at from 200 to 80() yards. The reserve artillery, under General Colquitt, will follow along the turnpike about 300 yards in rear of the last brigade. He will use it to the best advantage. Simultaneously with these movements. Major-General Whiting will move with his division from Petersburg along the Petersburg and Richmond turnpike, and attack the enemys flank and rear. Time movements above indicated must be made with all possible vigor and celerity. Time generals commanding divisions and Colonels Baker and Shingler, command- ing cavalry, will report at these headquarters at 6 p. m. to-day. In the mean time they will give all necessary instructions for providing their re- spective commands with 60 rounds of ammunition issued to each man, and at least 20 rounds for each in reserve. They will cause their commands to be supplied with two days cooked rations. G. T. BEAUREGARD, General, Commanding. To DIvIsION COMMANDERS. Ransom moved at 4.45 a. in., being somewhat delayed by a dense fog, which lasted several hours after (lawn and occasioned some em- barrassment. His division consisted of the following brigades, in the order mentioned, commencing from the left: Gracies, Kem- pers (commanded by Colonel Terry), Bartons (under Colonel Fry), and Colonel Lexvis (Hokes old brigade). - He was soon engaged, carrying, at 6 a. in., with some loss, the ene- ~nys line of breast-works in his front, his troops moving splendidly forward to the assault and capturing 5 staud of colors and some 500 prison~rs. The brigades most heavily eDgaged were Gracies and Kempers, opposed to the enemys right, the former turning his flank. He then halted to form, reported his loss heavy, and troops scattered by the fog, his ammunition short, and asked for a brigade from the reserve. Colquitts brigade was sent him at 6.30 a. in., with or(lers for its return when it ceased to be indispensable. Before either animunition or the reserve brigade had arrived, he reported the enemy driving Hokes left, and sent the right regiment of Lewis brigade forward at double-quick toward the point of supposed dan- ger. This held the enemy long enough for the reserve brigade t Page 202 202 OPERATIONS IN SE. VA. AND N. C. [CHAP. XLVIII. arrive, charge, and drive him back from the front of onr left center, where the a~air occurred, over and along the works to the turnpike. It will be seen in a subsequent part of this report that one of Hagoods advance regiments had niie~pectedly come in contact with the enemy and been ordered back, it not being contemplated to press at this point until Ransom should swing round his left, as directed in the battle order. This possibly originated Ransoms impression as to the situation of Hokes left, which had, in fact, steadily main- tained its proper position. At 7.13 a. in. Colquitts brigade, of the reserve, was recalled from Ransom, and a slight modification of the original movement was made to relieve Hoke, on whose front the enemy had been allowed to mass his forces by the inaction of the left. Ransom was ordered to flank the enemys right by changing the front of his right brigade to sup ort it by another in echelon, to advance a third toward Proctors reek, and to hold a fourth in reserve. This modification was intended to be temporary, and the original p lan was to be fully carried out on the seizure of the river road and Proctors Creek crossing. In proceeding to execute this order, Ransom found the reserve brigade engaged and his own troops moving by the right flank toward the firing at the center. He there- fore sent Bartons brigade back instead of Colqnitts, and reported a necessity to straighten and reform his lines in the old position near the lines he had stormed. Here his infantry rested during the greater part of the day, Dunovants cavalry, dismounted, being thrown forward as skirmishers toward a small force which occupied a ridge in the edge of George Gregorys woods, north of Proctors Creek. This force, with an insignificant body of cavalry, believed to be negroes, and a report of threatening gun-boats which came some hours earlier, as since ascertained, were the only menace to our left. At 10 a. m. I withheld an order for Ransom to move until further arrangements should be made, for the following reasons: The right was heavily engaged; all of the reserve had been detached right and left at different times; the silence of Whitings guns, which had been heard a short time about 8 a. in., gave reasonable hope that he had met no resistance and would soon be on. A dis- patch had been sent to Whiting at 9 a. in., which was repeated at 9.30 a. in., to Press on and press over everything in your front, and the day will be complete ; and Ransom not only reported the enemy in strong force in his front, but expressed the opinion that the safety of his command would be compromised by an advance. On the right Hoke had early advanced his skirmishers and opened with his artillery. The fog and other causes temporarily delayed the advance of his line of battle. When lie finally moved forward he soon became hotly engaged and handled his command with judg- ment and energy. Hagood and Johnson were thrown forward with a section of Eshlemans Washington Artillery, and found a heavy force of the enemy, with six or eight pieces of artillery, occupying the salient of the outer line of works on the turnpike and His own defensive lines. Our artillery engaged at very short range, dis- abling some of the enemys guns and blowing up two limbers. An- other section of the same command opened from the right of the turnpike. They both held their positions, though with heavy loss, until their ammunition was spent, when they were relieved by an equal number of pieces from the reserve artillery, under Major ~Owen. Hagood with great vigor and dash drove the enemy from the outer lines in his front, capturing a number of prisoners, and, i Page 203 CHAP. XLvI1I.] SOUTH SIDE OF TIlE JAMES. 203 conjunction with Johnson, five pieces of artillerythree 20-pounder Parrotts and two fine Napoleons. He then took position in the works, his left regiment being thrown forward by Hoke to connect with Ransoms right. In advancing, this regiment encountered the enemy behind a second line of works in the woods, with abatis in- terlaced with wire. Attack at that point not being contemplated it was ordered back to the line of battle, but not before its intrepid advance had brought on it considerable loss. This circumstance has been referred to before as the occasion of a mistake by Ransom. Johnson meanwhile had been heavily engaged. The line of the enemy bent around his right flank, subjecting his brigade for a time to fire in flank and front. With admirable firmness he repulsed fre- quent assaults of the enemy moving in masses against his right and rear. Leader, officers, and men alike displayed their fitness for the trial to which they were subjected. Among many instances of heroism I cannot forbear to mention tl~at Lieutenant Waggoner, of the Seventeenth Tennessee Regiment, went alone through a storm of fire and p idled down a white flag which a small isolated body of our men had raised, receiving a wound in the act. The brigade, holding its ground nobly, lost more than a fourth of its entire number. Two regiments of the reserve were sent up to its support, but were less effective than they should have been, through a mistake of the officer posting them. Hoke also sent two regiments from Cliugman to protect Johnsons flank. These par- tially partook of the same mistake, being posted in the woods where time moral and material effect of their presence was lost. I now ordered Hoke to press forward his right for the relief of his right center, and he advanced Cliugman with his remaining two regi- ments, and Corse with his brigade. They (lrove the enemy with spirit, suffering some loss, but the gap between Cliugman and the troops on his left induced him to retire his command to prevent being flanked and reform it in the intermediate lines. Thus Corse became isolated, and learning from his officers that masses were forming against his right flank, he withdrew some distance back, but not quite so far as his original position. These two brigades were not afterward engaged, though they went to the frontCorse about one hour after he fell back, and Cliugman at about 2.15 p. m. The enemy did not reoccupy the ground from which they drove him before they retired. In front of Hagood and Johnson the fighting was stubborn and prolonged. The enemy, slowly retiring from Johnsons right, took strQng position on the ridge in front of Proctors Creek, massing near the turnpike and occupying advantageous ground at the house and grove of Charles Friend. At length Johnson, having brushed the enemy from his right flank in time woods, with some assistance from the Washington Artillery, and cleared his front, rested his troops in the shelter of the outer works. One of the captured pieces having opened on the enemys masses, he finally fell back behind the woods and ridge at Proctors Creek, though his skirumish line continued the engagement some hours longer. Further movemnemmts were here suspended to wait communication from Whiting or the sound of his approach, and to reorganize the troops which had become more or less disorganized. Brief firing at about 1.45 p. m. gave some hope of his proximity. I waited in vain. The firing heard was probably an encounter between Dearing and the enemys rear guard. Dearing had been ordered by Whitin Page 204 204 OPERATIONS IN SE. VA. AND N. C. [CHAP. XLVIII. to communicate with me, but, unsupported as he was by infantry or artillery, he was unable to do so, except by sending a detachment by a circuitous ronte, which reached me after the work of the day was closed. At 4 p. in. all hope of Whitings approach was gone, and I reluctantly abandoned so much of my plan as contemplated mQre than a vigorous pursuit of Butler and driving him to his forti- fied base. To effect this, I resumed my original formation, and directed General Hoke to send two brigades forward along the Conrt- House road, to take the enemy in flank, and establish enfilading batteries in front of the heights west of the railroad. The forma- tion of our line was checked by a heavy and prolonged storm of rain. Meanwhile the enemy opened a severe fire, which was soon silenced by onr artillery. Before we were ready to advance dark- ness approached, and, upon consultation with several of my subordi- nate commanders, it was deemed imprudent to attack, considering the probability of serious obstacles and the proximity of Butlers intrenched camp. I therefore put the army in position for the night, and sent instructions to Whiting to join our right at the rail- road in the morning. During the night the enemy retired to the fortified line of his present camp, leaving in our hands some 1,400 prisoners, 5 pieces of artillery, and S stand of colors. He now rests there hemmed by our lines, which have since from time to time been advanced with every skirmish, and now completely cover the southern commuiii- cations of the capital, thus securing one of the principal objects of the attack. The more glorious results anticipated were lost by the hesitation of the left wing and the premature halt of the Petersburg column before obstacles in neither case suffici~nt to have deterred from the execution of the movements prescribed. Too much praise cannot be bestowed on the officers and men who fought the battle of Drewrys Bluff for the ardor an(l intrepidity dis- played by them whenever called upon to meet the foe, regardless of his advantage in numbers and position. I shall take pleasure in presenting the names of those who most distinguished themselves as soon as the detailed reports of subordinate commanders shall have been received at these headquarters. The same opportunity will be taken to mention the nanmes and services of those members of my personal and general staff who were present during the battle, and of those officers who, belonging to other commands, kindly volun- teered their services on that occasion. The intelhi~ent zeal and ac- tivity of all these officers, in transmitting orders and conveying information from one portion of the field to the other, contributed largely to the success of the day. Respectfully, your obedieiit servant, G. T. BEAUREGARD, General. General SAMUEL COOPER, Ae~jntant- General, Richmond, Va. [Indorsement.] JUNE 23, 1864. Respectfully submitted to the President, who will be interested by the explanations afforded in this report. They excite serious surprise in my mind. J. A. SEDDON, Secretary of War Page 205 Ca& p. XLVIII.] SOUTH SIDE OF THE JAMES. 205 HDQRS. DEPT. OF NORTH CAROLINA AND SOUTHERN VA., June 14, 1864. GENERAL: In forwarding my report of the battle of Drewrys Bluff, May 16, it seems necessary that it should be accompauied by an explanation of the appareut inconsistency of its conclusion with my Special Orders, No. 11, May 17, 1864, relieving the commander of the left wing and counneuding in high terms his conduct of his command in battle. A copy of that order is annexed. * When it was issued I still assumed that h~ had properly felt and estimated the obstacles and hostile force reported by hini in his immediate front, and that his reports were to be accepted as maturely considered and substantially accurate. Subsequent investigation, necessarily re- quiring time, has, I regret to say, brought me to a different con- viction. Respectfully, your obedient servant, G. T. BEAUREGARD, General. General S. COOPER, A((jt. and Insp. Gen., U. S. Army, Richmond, Va. ADDENDA. List of killed, wounded, and missing in the engagement near Drewrys Bluff on Monday, May 16,1864. Killed. Wounded. Missing. ____ Ii -___ .1 CS command. ~ . bij ,..~ I) 0 CS 0 4 51 0 ~ H 0 ~ H 0 ~ H ~11 RANSOMS DIVISION. Bartons brigade, col. B. D. Fry 5 38 43 10 282 292 10 10 345 Gracies brigade, Brigadier-General 2 32 34 17 259 276 4 4 314 Gracie. Kempers brigade Hokes brigade, Lieutenant-colonel 21 25 i25 i37 24 25 j5~~ Lewis Battalion of artillery, Lieutenant-col- 1 1 1 30 31 32 onel Lightfoot. MORE S I)IVISION. corses brigade, Brigadier-General corse cliugmans brigade, Brigadier-General ~i 27 30 9 175 1& i 3 20 23 237 cliugman. Johnsons brigade, Brigadier-General 5 46 51 18 186 204 6 60 64 319 Johnson. Hagoods brigade, Brigadier-General 8 110 118 34 461 495 4 47 51 664 Hagood. Battalion Washington Artillery, Lieu- 9 9 2 18 20 1 1 30 tenant-colonel Eshleman. COLQUITTS DIVISION. tJolquitts brigade 11 11 17 129 146 157 Ransoms brigade 4 27 31 8 140 148 2 24 26 205 Battalion of artillery, Major Owen 1 1 1 7 8 9 7th South carolina cavalry, colonel I I 4 shingler. 3d North carolina cavalry, colonel 3 3 3 Baker. 5th 5outh carolina cavalry, colonel Dunovant. *Not found with this paper; but see order of May 17, relieving General Ransom~ p. 1017 Page 206 206 OPERATIONS IN SE. VA. AND N. C. [CHAP. XLVIII. This list is necessarily incomplete, from the fact that before the reports could be made the commands whose columns are left blank were ordered from the department. JNO. M. OTEY, Assistant Adjutant-General. HDQRS. DEPT. OF N. CAROLINA AND SOUTHERN VA., June 1, 1864. List of prisoners captured in the battle of Drewrys Bluff, May 16, 1864. Sent to Richmond Petersburg Total Total. 1,216 172 1,388 The above list is incomplete, from the fact that the prisoners were hnrried off to Richmond and Petersbnrg before their names could be taken down, or their companies, regiments, ranks, & c. JNO. M. OTEY, Assistant Adjutant-General. JUNE 10, 1864. Report of ordnance and ordnance stores captured at Drewrys Bluff and Ware Bottom Church. 0 2 2 0. DO Class 1.Ordnance: 1 12-poun(ler Napoleon guns, brass .~ 20-pounder Parrott guns, rifled 3 Class 6.Small-arms: Muskets, caliber .69 16 Rifles, caliber .57 16 All descriptions a3, 936 (lass 8.Ammunitioub caliber .57 and .58 42,000 a Exchanged on the field for old muskets left, the men being unable to bring them off the field. b Besides the ammunition reported each brigade filled its cartridge-boxes from loose cartridges on the held, making the captured ammunition amount to from 60,000 to 70,000 rounds. Respectfully submitted. J. R. WADDY, Lieutenant-Colonel and Chief Ordnance Officer. - MAY 28, 1864 Page 207 CHAP. XLVIII.] SOUTH SIDE OF THE JAMES. 207 FORCES IN THE RICHMOND AND PETERSBURG LINES. General G. T. BEAUREGARD.* RANSOM S DIVISION. Maj. Gen. ROBERT RANSOM, Jr. Gracies Brigade. Kempers Brigade. Brig. Gen. ARCHIBALD GRAdE, Jr. Col. WILLIAM R. TERRY. 41st Alabama, . 1st Virgina, Maj. George F. Norton. 43d Alabama, . 3d Virginia, 59th Alabama, . 7th Virginia, Capt. William 0. Fry. 60th Alabama, . 11th Virginia, - ___ 24th Virginia, Hokes (old) Brigade. Lieut. Col. WILLIAM G. LEWIS. 6th North Carolina, 21st North Carolina, 54th North Carolina. 57th North Carolina, 1st North Carolina Battalion, Bartons Brigade. Brig. Gen. SETH M. BARTON. 9th Virginia, Col. James J. Phillips. 14th Virginia, Col. William White. 38th Virginia, Lieut. Col. Joseph R. Ca- bell. 53d Virginia, Col. William R. Aylett. 57th Virginia, Col. Clement R. Fontaine. Artillery Battalion. Lieut. Col. C. E. LIGHTFOOT. Hankins (Virginia) battery. Rives (Virginia) battery. Thorntons (Virginia) battery. HOKES DIVISION. Maj. Gen. ROBERT F. HOKE. Gorses Brigade. Brig. Gen. MONTGOMERY D. CORSE. 15th Virginia, Lieut. Col. Emmett M. Morrison. 17th Virginia, Lieut. Col. Arthur Her- bert. 18th Virginia, Lieut. Col. George C. Ca- bell. 29th Virginia, 30th Virginia, Col. A. T. Harrison. Johnsons Brigade. Brig. Gen. BUSHROD R. JOHNSON. Col. JOHN S. FULTON. 17th Tennessee, Col. R. H. Keeble. 23d Tennessee, 25th Tennessee,) Col. John S. Fulton, Lieut. Col. John L. 44th Tennessee,) McEwen, jr. 63d Tennessee, Col. Abraham Fulkerson. Glingmans Brigade. Brig. Gen. THOMAS L. CLINOMAN. 8th North Carolina, 31st North Carolina, 51st North Carolina, 61st North Carolina, Hagoods Brigade. Brig. Gen. JOHNSON HAGOOD. 11th South Carolina, Col. F. Hay Gantt. 21st South Carolina, Col. Robert F. Gra ham. 25th South Carolina, Lieut. Col. John G. Pressley, 27th South Carolina, Col. Peter C. Gail- lard. 7th South Carolina Battalion, Maj. James H. Rion. * Command known as the Department of North Carolina and Southern Virginia. Maj. Gen. George E. Pickett commanded First Military District, at Petersburg. The roster represents Th~anregards command as it stood on or about May S to 10 Page 208 208 OPERATIONS IN SE. VA. A1~D N. C. [C~. XLVHL Unattached. 51st North Carolina, Col. Hector MeKethan. Artillery Battalion. Lient. Col. B. F. ESHLEMAN. Martins (Virgina) battery. Owens (Louisiana) battery. Paynes battery.* COLQUITT S DIVISION. Brig. Gen. ALFRED H. COLQUITT. crolquitts Brigade. Ransoms Brigade. 6th Georgia, Col. John T. Lofton. 24th North Carolina, Col. William J. 19th Georgia, . Clarke. 23d Georgia, Col. M. R. Ballenger. 25th North Carolina, Col. Henry M. Rut- 27th Georgia, Lient. Col. James Gardner. ledge. 28th Georgia, . 35th North Carolina, Col. John G. Jones. 49th North Carolina, Col. Lee M. Mc- Afee. 56th North Carolina, Col. Paul F. Faison. Artillery Batlalion. Maj. WILLIAM M. OWEN. Cavalry. 3d North Carolina, Col. John A. Baker. 7th South Carolina, Col. W. Pinkney Shingler. WHITINGS DIVISION. Maj. Gen. WILLIAM H. C. WHITING. Wises Brigade. Martins Brigade. Brig. Gen. HENRY A. WISE. Brig. Gen. JAMES G. MARTIN. 26th Virginia, Col.Powhatan R. Page. 17th North Carolina, - 34th Virginia, . 42d North Carolina, ___ 46th Virginia ___ 66th North Carolina, 59th Virginia, Col. William B. Tabb. Oavalry. Brig. Gen. JAMES DEARING. 7th Confederate, Col. V. H. Taliaferro. 8th Georgia, Col. Joel R. Griffin. 4th North Carolina, Col. Dennis D. Ferebee. 65th North Carolina, Col. George N. Folk. Artillery Battalion.t Maj. JOHN P. W. READ. Blounts battery. Caskies battery. Macons battery. Marshalls battery. * Improvised and manned by men from Johnsons (Tennessee) brigade. t 38th Battalion Virginia Artillery Page 209 CHAP. XLVIII.] SOUTH SIDE OF THE JAMES. 209 MISCELLANEOUS. Elliotts Brigade. Col. STEPHEN ELLIOTT, Jr. 61st North Carolina, Holcombe (South Carolina) Legion, Huntons Brigade.* Brig. Gen. EPPA HUNTON. 8th Virginia, Capt. Henry C. Bowie. 19th Virginia, Capt. James G. Woodson. 25th Virginia (battalion), Lient. Col. Wyatt M. Elliott 32d Virginia, Col. Edgar B. Montague. 56th Virginia, Capt. John Richardson. 42d Virginia Cavalry (battalion), Lieut. Col. William T. Robins. Maryland Line. * Col. BRADLEY T. JOHNSON. 2d Maryland Infantry, Capt. James P. Crane. 1st Maryland Cavalry, Lieut Col Rid~ely Brown. 1st Maryland Battery, Capt. William F. Dement. 2d Maryland Battery, Capt. William H. Griffin. 4th Maryland Battery, Engineers.* 1st Regiment, Company D, Capt. H. C. Derrick. RICHMOND DEFENSES.* Col. WALTER H. STEVENS. First Division, inner Line. Second Division, Inner Line. Licut. Col. JOHN W. ATKINSON. Lient. Col. JAMES HOWARD. 10th Virginia Heavy Artillery Battalion, 18th Virginia Heavy Artillery Battalior, Maj. James 0. Hensley. Maj. Mark B. Hardin. 19th Virginia Heavy Artillery Battalion, 20th Virginia Heavy Artillery Battalio~i, Maj. N. R. Cary. Maj. James E. Robertson. Unattached. Louisiana Guard Artillery, Capt. Charles A. Green. CHAFFINS BLIJFF.* Lient. Col. J. M. MAURY. Goochiand (Virginia) Artillery,.Capt. Jonathan Talley. James City (Virginia) Artillery, Capt. Lucien W. Richardson. Lunenburg (Virginia) Artillery, Capt. C. Tacitus Allen. Pamunkey (Virginia) Artillery, Capt. Andrew J. Jones. DREWRYS BLUFF.* Maj. FRANCIS W. SMITH. Johnston (Virginia) Artillery, Capt. Branch J. Epes. Neblett (Virginia) Artillery, Capt. Wiley G. Coleman. Southside (Virginia) Artillery, Capt. John W. Drewry United (Virginia) Artillery, Capt. Thomas Kevill. * On May 10 belonged to Ransoms command. 14 R RVOL XXXVI, PT I Page 210 210 OPERATIONS IN SE. VA. AND N. C. [CHAP. XLVIII. CHAFFINS FARM.* Maj. ALEXANDER W. STARK. Mathews (Virginia) Artillery, Capt. A. D. Armistead. McComas (Virginia) Artillery, Capt. David A. French. ARTILLERY. Col. HILARY P. JONES. Moseleys Battalion. Coits Battalion. Lieut. Col. EDGAR F. MOSELEY. Maj. JAMES C. ColT. Cummings (North Carolina) battery. Bradfords (Mississippi) battery. Millers (North Carolina) battery. Kellys (South Carolina) battery Slatens (Georgia) battery. Pegrams (Virginia) battery. Youngs (Virginia) battery. Wrights (Virginia) battery. Unassigned. Sturdivants (Virginia) battery. No. 89. Report of Maj. Gem. Daniel H. Hill, C. & Army, of operations May 16. CAMP NEAR WALTHALL JUNCTION, May 26, 1864. CAPTAIN: I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of the fol- lowing order: It is the desire of the commanding general that you render to these headquarters as soon as practicable an official report of the movements of the command of Major- General Whiting from his line on Swift Creek in this direction as ordered by these headquarters, including the engagement with the enemy while en route. JNO. M. OTEY, Assistant Adjutant-General. On the morning of the luth instant, at General Whitings desire, I accompanied his command, consisting of the brigades of Wise and Martin and Dearings cavalry. Swift Creek was crossed by the whole command about sunrise, and soon after the Yankee pickets were encountered on Timberry Creek. General Whiting then re- qneste(l me to accompany the advance ~n the turnpike, while he at- tended to the movements of Martins bri ~ade on the right. I urged that Dearings cavalry should be brought back and move on our left flank, as I had originally proposed, to gain the rear of the Yankee cavalry on the pike. This was done, but Dearing gained the point just in time to see the escape of the negro cavalry. I had no official position, but General Wis.e promptly and cordially carried out all my suggestions as though they were responsible orders. When we neared Walthahl Junction his brigade was drawn np in line of battle and a battery of Reads battalion opened upon some woods in front, not merely to feel the Yankees, but to inform the commanding gen- eral of our presence. Wises brigade was now ordered forward to the railroad cut, and advanced with all the precision of a parade day and gained that point. Blounts battery was placed in the field on * On May 10 belonged to Ransoms command Page 211 Ciui~. XLVIII.] SOUTH SIDE OF THE JAMES. 211 our left, and soon silenced the Yankee battery, and their column was plainly seen retreating toward Ware Bottom Church, leaving but about a regiment deployed as skirmishers. I advised that our troops should be thrown across Bake-House Creek, seize the heights on the opposite side, and try to penetrate as far as the cross-roads near Mrs. Kitty Ashbrookes. The heights were gained and the troops halted. With Colonel Jones, of the artillery, and one courier I rode up to Colemans, and from that point could see a regiment of Yankees in the woods near Hancocks house. On my return General Wise told me that the cavalry reported a heavy column of Yankees coming down the pike and trying to turn his left. I told him that if the report were true lie had better make his fight in the railroad cut, with Bake-House Creek in his front, as this creek was almost impassable, from the thick and tangled under- growth on its banks. This movement he approved; but, to my sur- prise, although I had expressly advised leavuig our line of skirmish- ers on the crest to the north of the creek, I found everything retiring on the Swift Creek road. I inquired the meaning of this, when General Wise told me that he had been ordered by General Whiting in person to retire to a line in rear to be designated by him. I went to General Whiting amid succeeded in getting the troops sent back to the railroad cut, and again repeated the suggestion to develop the Yankees strength by a strong line o~ skirmishers. A personal re- commnaissance on the left proved that the cavalry report, as usual, was erroneous. I wrote to General Whiting that there was not more than a small regiment of Yankees in our front, and that it ought to be brushed away immediately. I then sought General Martin at Craigs house. While at this p lace General Whiting rode up. and directed General Martin to with raw is skirmishers. I said to him, Gen- eral Whiting, you cannot occupy this place if you withdraw your skirmishers. He replied, You dont think that I intend to remain here ? I answered that I did not know what his intentiomms.were. He then ordered General Martin to withdraw his brigade as soon as the skirmishers got in. General Martin suggested that the troops should be retired before the skirmishers came lii. General Whiting said, It makes no difference; there is no enemy in our front. Some half hour later I met General Whiting on the turnpike. Wagomis, ambulances, artillery, and infantry were all jammed to- gether on that road. I told him that the Yankee regiment, which could still be s~emi in our front, might make terrible havoc of this confused mass. He asked what he ought to do. I replied that I had written to him two hours before to press the Yankees. He said, I did not receive your note. Fearing that General Whiting might be embarrassed by the seeming divided responsibility of my presemice, and feeling that I could accomplish nothing more, I retired to Dun- laps house, when I learned that the troops were ordered to recross Swift Creek. It is due to General Whiting to say that I saw no evidence of al- leged intoxication; that he exposed himself gallantly on the field, and Vrmat his errors were acknowledged with a frankness, generosity, and magnanimity above all praise. Respectfully submitted. D. H. HILL, Capt. JOHN M. OTEY, 214tajor-General. Assistant Adjutant- GeneraL Page 212 212 OPERATIONS IN SE. VA. AND N. C. [Cliii. XLVIII. No. 90. Report of Moj. Gem. Robert Ransom, Jr., U. S. Army, commanding Department of Richmond, of operations May 16. HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF RICHMOND, May 23, 1864. COLONEL: I have the honor to make the following very brief re- port of the actions of the division under my command in the battle of the 16th instant below Drewrys Bluff: The division was composed of Gracies, Hokes, Bartons, and Kempers brigades, commanded, respectively, by Brigadier-General Gracie, Lieutenant-Colonel Lewis, Colonel Fry, and Colonel Terry. In compliance with orders from your headquarters, at 2 oclock on the morning of the 16th I began to move the troops from behind the trenches next to Drewrys Bluff, and by a little after daylight had the division in two lines of battle south of and close to Kingsland Creek, the right resting just to the left of Fort Stevens and extend- iug some 200 yards to the left of river road. The second line was l)ut about 50 yards in rear of the first, but as the movement was made the distance was increased to 200 or 300. Gracie occupied the left of the first line and Lewis the right; Terry the left of the second and Fry the right. Colonel Ihinovants cavalry was thrown near the river, and Lieutenant-Coloiiel Lightfoots artillery was but a short distance in rear of the second line of infantry. So sooii as the dispositions were completed, movements being re- tarded by almost perfect obscurity of the densest fog, the advance was ordered about 4.45 oclock. Very quickly the strong line of our skirmishers [became] engaged and the enemy was pressed as vigor- ously as possible across the open field in front and to the right of Willis house, and after a little over one hours stubborn fighting the enemys rifle-pits and breast-works were carried about 100 yards iuside the woods and in front of the fields above mentioned. These works ran along a small road leading from the river road to the turnpike. After taking the works I found that from the perfect inability to see anything the lines had become confused and reqnired readjustiiig, and that ammunition had to be replenished throughout. These causes occasioned considerable delay, and in order not to retard the move- ments directed in the order for battle, I sent to General Beauregard for fresh troops to continue the pressure upon the enemy. Before these arrived and before we had gotten ammunition, the enemy made a vigorous and telling assault upon Hokes left, driving his men hastily toward the intermediate line to the right of Fort Stevens. At once Colonel Lewis was ordered to throw the only regiment he had in hand at the double-quick to that point, which was handsomely done, and he engaged the enemy long enough to allow Colquitts brigade, of the reserve, to arrive, and it was at once thrown to the same point and rapidly attacked and drove back the enemy. Arrangements were at once made to perfect our line, and so soon as it was the order to ad- vance was given. Just at this juncture I received orders from General Beauregard to send Colquitts brigade to the right, as it was badly needed there. This brigade being now in the front line and engag- ing the enemy, it could not be detached, and I ordered Bartons to the right in its stead. The directions given for the second advance were to keep touched to the right, joining Hokes division, intending to throw forward the left so sooii as the woods should be cleared Page 213 ChAP. XLVIII.] SOUTH SIDE OF THE JAMES. 213 In moving to the right to hurry Bartons brigade in that direction, I discovered that my line was moving by a flank to the right, and that Colquitts and Lewis brigades had already lapped upon Hokes division. Inquiry was made and General Hoke replied (he being near me) that he had been using these brigades to good purpose. Report was at once sent by a staff officer to General Beauregard as to what had happened, and the whole~line had to be moved again to the left and take position just in front of the enemys rifle-pits and breast- works, which had been recently taken. After re-establishing this line, which was about 10 oclock, I reported in person to General Beauregard, and he directed a halt for further arrangements. The infantry held the last position throughout the day. The artillery, under Colonel Lightfoot, was nsed when it seemed it could be doiie with effect, but it acted a small part. Colonel Dunovant with his cavalry was well to our left and front, and his regiment did admir- able service. The conduct of the troops throughout was unexceptiouable, but the brigades of General Gracie and Colonel Terry deserve special notice; also the regiment of Colonel Lewis, which he so gallantly led at the double-quick against the enemy. It has been impossible to get reports from subordinates, and I trust this meager outline may answer for immediate requirements. In my full report I shall endeavor to do justice to the gallant men it was my privilege to command on that occasion. I am, colonel, very respectfully, your most obedient servant, R. RANSOM, JR., Col. SAMUEL W. MELTON, iViajor-General. Asst. Adjt. Gen., Dept. of N. U. and Southern Va. P. 5.In taking the breast-works, ti stand of colors, 1 brigadier- general, and about 400 prisoners were captured. During the day several parties of prisoners were brought in. Our losses were not very heavy, but until the returns are made I will not venture a state- ment. R. R., Ju. No. 91. Report of Brig. Gen. Seth Al. Barton, U. S. Army, commanding brigade, of operations ]Jliay 10. RICHMOND, May 16, 1864. General S. COOPER, Ac~jutant and Inspector General: GENERAL: I have the honor to inclose a report of the operations of my brigade on the 10th instant near Drewrys Bluff, and to inform the Department that I have been relieved from command of my brigade by order of Major-General Ransom, dated the 11th instaiit, a copy of which is herewith inclosed. This order not only violates General Orders, No. 141, paragraph I, 1863, aiid General Orders, No. 35, paragraph IV, current series, but deprives nie of ~onimand under circumstances necessarily implying grave censure without informing me of the charges against me, if any there be, or allowing me to b Page 214 214 OPERATIONS IN SE. VA. AND N. C. [CHAP. XLVIfl. heard. Confident that the illegal and unjust act of General Ransom does not meet the approbation of the Department, I most earnestly request that proper steps be forthwith taken to repair the injury. Very respectfully, your obedient servant; S. M. BARTON, Brigadier- General. [First indorsemenL] MAY 16, 1864. Respectfully submitted to the President with a report of the oper- ations of the brigade and a copy of the request of the regimental commanders of Bartons brigade for his restoration to his command, the original request not having yet been received here. This seems to be a case similar to that of Colonel Harney, under General Scott in Mexico, and is met by General Orders, No. 141, of 1863, from this office, prohibiting such practice of relieving officers from their com- mands. S. COOPER, Adjutant and Inspector General. [Second indorsemeut.] ADJUTANT-GENERAL: Please refer to the late law in relation to officers in the field deemed unfit for command, and call on General Bragg for inforina- tion. JEFFERSON DAVIS. [Third indorsement.] MAY 20, 1864. Respectfully referred to General Bragg for the information called for by the President. The recent law referred to by the President is the act of February 17, 1864, published in General Orders, No. 22, of present series. S. COOPER, Adjutant and Inspector General. [Inclosure No. 1.] RICHMOND, May 12, 1864. GENERAL: I have the honor to submit the following report of the part borne by my brigade in the affair of Tuesday last, the 10th in- stant: At daybreak, in obedience to orders received from General Ran- som the evening previous, I moved with one regiment (Whites, Fourteenth Virginia), deployed as skirmishers, and connecting with one of General Gracies, under his immediate command, and also de- ployed as skirmishers, to sweep the country south of the lines at Drewrys Bluff and ascertain the position and strength of the enemy. I was forced to make a detour to the right to avoid an him- passable swamp in my front, and returning resumed connection with General Gracie. After proceeding some 2 miles, I was overtaken by a (lispatch from General Ransom directin o me to Ii ave my brigade about a mile in rear. General Gracie received a similar order. Thi Page 215 CHAP. XLVIII.] SOUTH SIDE OF THE JAMES. 215 required a halt until the brigade should come up. General Ransom reached the ground about the same time with it, and ordered me to resume command of it, turning over the command of the skirmish line. Just as General Ransom arrived a cannon shot announced the proximity of the enemy. Au advance was ordered, and we pro- ceeded about half a mile. General Ransom ordered a regiment to be detached to the right of the skirmish line, to form line of bat- tle at or nearly at right angles to it, the remainder of the brigade to be deployed across the turnpike, so that one and a half regiments should be on each side. The haste with which the brigade had been assembled and marched from the intrenchments by the senior col- ommel without previous warning left the pickets (one-fifth of the com- mand), besides the detachments and guar(15 over the artillery and in the redans, to follow. These overtook their commands at intervals during the day. My brigade was formed for attack by General Ransoms orders as follows: From right to left as enumerated, Fon- taines, Fifty-seventh Virginia, in line of battle at angle with rest of the line; Whites, Fourteenth, deployed as skirmishers across an open, plowed field; a line of skirmishers from Fifty-third, Ninth, and Thirty-eighth behind this last-mentioned line; Ayletts, Fifty-third (six companies), Phillips, Ninth (six companies), Cabells, Thirty:eighth (eight companies). Gracies skirmish line connected with mine (the Fourteenth) near the turnpike, a company or two extending to the right and beyond it. A movement by Gracie to the left caused this detachment to be separated from the rest of his line, and uncovered my front to the left of the turnpike. It was discovered and by umy order reported to General Ransom, who di- rected me to throw out additional skirmishers to relieve this frag- ment and to cover my front, and informed me that Gracie would close in and connect with it. It was thus that the skirmish line of the three left regiments was formed. When this arrangement was nearly completed on my part, and before Gracies line had con- nected, the attack was signaled and the line moved. The Fifty- seventh was placed nuder command of Col. R. H. Chilton, inspector- general. The Fourteenth was taken charge of by one of General Ransoms staff, or some one acting as such, no formual order in either case having been given me. The enemy in large force was strongly posted on a ridge nearly at right angles to the turnpike, and had begun to fortify the position. On his left front was an open field; the remainder of his front, as far as it was developed, was densely wooded to the bottom of the hill, where there was a thick morass. The sides and top of the ridge were covere(l with a tangled underwooda growth of young oak and hickory, with fallen timber, and in parts an abatis just begun. Two lines of battle extended across the open fields and into the woods about 1-~ miles long. I was unable to ascertain the enemys force in artillery. An advance of 100 yards brought us in contact with the enemy, whom we drove steadily before us, keeping as strict lines as the nature of the ground would permit. It was impossible to see more than a few paces; a captain could rarely see his whole compam!y, a colonel never his whole regiment, at one glance. To add to these difficulties the woOds were Bred early in the action, and the smuoke and flames driving into our lines blinded us and deranged the precis- ion of movements. I believe the (listance between the combatants rarely exceeded 50 paces, often not 20 Page 216 216 OPERATIONS IN SE. VA. AND N. C. [cHAP. XLVIII. Having pushed the enemy about 400 yards, or so much of his force as a little exceeded my line in length, I found that a considerable force was left on my left flank, and that it was firing upon my rear. Turning back the two left-flank companies of the Thirty-eighth, a few well-directed volleys dispersed those immediately annoying us, and the line being reformed we continued the advance. The axis of our march not being exactly parallel to the turnpike, and the dress being to the right, some divergence had occurred between the two portions of the Ninth Virginia. I accordingly crossed the left portion of that regiment to the right of the road, and, moving the Thirty-eighth obliquely, re-established the connection. A Napoleon gun posted on the turnpike had annoyed us much, firing grape and canister during our advance and while we were in 50 yards. The rapid movement of the Ninth and Thirty-eighth prevented its be- ing carried off and it was captured. We had reached a point about 50 yards from the cross-roads, beyond which I had been ordered by General Ransom not to proceed, when a heavy force of the enemy opened again upon the left flank and rear. I directed the left-flank companies to be retired, and while the gallant Colonel Cabell was executing this order he fell mortally wounded, and many men and officers were laid low. Some misap- prehension of the orders and the difficulties of the ground caused a little confusion, but no panic. Wherever the voices of the officers or myself could be heard above the din of battle, the men cheerfully and promptly obeyed. I found, however, that it was necessary to form the whole regiment to the left and rear to face the flanking attack, and as a large part of it (say a third) had not readily been collected, I directed a staff officer to bend back the left-flank com- panies of the Ninth in addition. Having seen this partially executed I returned to that part of the Thirty-eighth not in line, and restored a part of them to the right, in no instance meeting with reluctance to rejoin the action. I am thus minute in detailing this part of the Thirty-eighths behavior because I have heard that injurious deduc- tions have been drawn from its conduct, and having explained why its victorious march was arrested, I must, in justice to it, add fur- ther that I have never seen troops fight better, nor behave with superior steadiness under so fierce an onslaught on their flank and rear. While the advance of the left had proceeded so well, White dashed his line of skirmishers over an open field for about 1,000 yards against a battery supported by a strong line of infantry (at least a brigade), but was unable to take it, though he silenced the guns and drove the infantry from the open ground. Heavy forces of the ene- my were brought forward and he was forced to retire. Halting in his original position and resting for a few moments, he again ad- vanced at the charge and retook the position first gained. The dense morass on his left made it necessary for him to double his line there and prevented Aylett (Fifty-third) from connecting closely. Ayletts advance had left a part of the enemys line between the two regiments, and a heavy fire on the rear and flanks of both followed. White retired his left to face it, and Aylett his right for the same purpose. Re-enforcements came to both flanks and front of the enemy, thus nearly encompassing the three left regiments and forc- ing the line back slowly and reluctantly. The whole retired in good order. While collecting the Thirty-eighth, I found myself in a few hundred yards of the position occupied by General Ransom, and m Page 217 CHAP. XLVIII.] SOUTH SIDE OF THE JAMES. 217 staff and couriers being absent carrying orders, and having no mounted person near me, I felt it my duty to inform him that my left flank was turned, what disposition I had made and was making to meet it, aud to request that horses be sent forward to remove the captured gun. Before I had commnnicated more than the first part of my errand he directed me to return. Shortly after rejoining (I had been absent from the immediate line about three minutes) we were forced back beyond the gun, which again fell into the enemys hands and was used. A large force (I saw two colors and could tell from the sounds that their line was much longer than two regiments) gained the left and rear. I at once retired the whole across the morass and took up the position occupied before the assault. The movement was executed in perfect order and so secretly as not to draw the fire of this force. After a desultory fire of artillery on our new position the enemy withdrew, leaving us the field. In the absence of the reports from the subordinate commanders I am unable to give the numbers and designation of the prisoners. They represented two divisions, and said that the whole corps (Tenth) was on the field~ statement verified as to numbers by the recon- naissance of a most reliable officer. The same cause prevents me from doing full justice to the merits of the officers engaged. The skill and gallantry of Colonels Aylett, White, and Phillips were con- spicuous. Lieutenant-Colonel Cabell fell in the midst of the action while nobly discharging his duty, and Captain Griggs, who snc- ceeded him, well supplied his place. The difficulties, so much en- hanced by the overwhelming force of the enemy, were sufficiently great to call forth the qualities of the regimental commanders and taxed them heavily. To say they were eqnal to the demand is no slight praise. The conduct of the troops was~admirable. All officers agree that there was less straggling than they had ever known. They engaged a force five times their number on ground selected by the enemy and presenting unusual obstacles, drove them 1,000 yards, yielded the ground gained only after an obstinate conflict, and remained masters of the field. I have omitted mention of the part borne by the Fifty-seventh, as it was detached and not engaged under my ob- servation. I am glad to be able to state that Colonel Chilton, under whose immediate command it was placed, commends its conduct. In- closed please find a list of casualtV~s. I am indebted to Captains Darden and Thom and Lieutenant Lyons, all of my staff, for efficient services. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, S. M. BARTON, Brigadier-General. General S. COOPER, Adjutant and inspector General. [Indorsement.] HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF RICHMOND, ]Vliay 21, 1864. This report should have been sent through me. In my report of General Bartons case it will be remarked upon. R. RANSOM, JR., ]Jliajor- General Page 218 OPERATIONS IN SE. VA. AND N. V. [CRAP. XLVIII. [Sub-inclosure.] Return of casualties in Bartons Brigade, May 10, 1864. Killed. Wounded. Missing. ____________ 5; Command. bLJ 5) 5) IS S 0 0 0 ~1 9th Virginia 3 4 ~ 3 47 14th Virginia 12 2 42 15 71 38th Virginia 1 10 1 29 10 51 53d Virginia 8 3 30 3 39 57Lh Virginia 1 6 1 30 3 41 Total 2 34 11 168 34 249 J. D. DARDEN, Assistant Adjutant- General. [Inclosure No. 2.] SPECIAL ORDERS, ~ HDQRS. DEPARTMENT OF RICHMOND, No.. .Miay 11, 1864. I. Brig. Gen. S. M. Barton is hereby relieved from the command of his brigade and will report in person to General Braxton Bragg at Richmond at once. II. Col. B. D. Fry is hereby assigned to the command of Bartons brigade, and all the staff officers save the aide-de-camp will remain on duty with the brigade. * * ~ * * * * * By command of Maj. Gen. R. Ransom: T. P. BRANCH, Assistant Adjutant and Inspector General. ADDENDA. CAMP OF BARTONS BRIGADE, Near Richmond, Va., May , 1864. General S. COOPER: We, the undersigned officers, learn with the deepest regret that General Barton has been relieved of his command. We are not officially informed of the reason, but are led to believe from general report that he was removed because the officers and men did not have confidence in him. We beg leave to state for ourselves that it is untrue, and that we have every faith in his skill as a military commander and his individual courage. We have been long in serv- ice, have been in many battles, which are unnecessary to mention to you, and we hope that our opinion may receive some weight with the Department. Many of us were eye-witnesses to his gallantry and cool- ness in the late action near Drewrys Bluff on the 10th instant. He was always in the thickest of the fray, leading his officers and men where necessary, and when the enemy were driven from their gun he was the first to take possession of it. He frequently loaded with practiced skill the foul guns of the new reernits amid struggled for the advance in the charge. We speak knowingly for our men when 21 Page 219 219 CHAP. XLVIII.] SOUTH SIDE OF THE JAMES. we say they desire his return to c ~mmand them, and we plainly say for ourselves we want 110 better commander to lead us to victory. We therefore most respectfully petition that he be restored to his former command. G. A. MARTIN, Captain Company I, Thirty-eighth Virginia. [And 84 others.] [Indorsement.] HEADQUARTERS BARTONS BRIGADE, Below Drewrys Bluff, ]1Jay 18, 1864. So far as I have been able to ascertain General Barton has the en- tire confidence of his brigade, and I would be gratified to see him restored to the command. B. D. FRY, Colonel Thirteenth Alabama Regiment. CAMP OF BARTONS BRIGADE, May 11, 1864. General S. COOPER, Adjutant and Inspector General: GENERAL: We, the undersigned officers of this brigade, have the hono.r to ask that Brig. Gen. S. M. Barton be restored to the com- mand of which he was to-day relieved. In making this request we are actuated by no feeling of disrespect or op position to Colonel Fry, who was assigned to the brigade on General Barton being relieved. On the contrary, we highly respect and esteem the former officer for the reputation which accompanies him, though he is a stranger to us; but General Barton has been long and pleasantly associated with us. We have a high regard for hini as a man and confidence in him as an officer. We have seen and admired his gallantry in action, and we cannot but believe that his removal from his brigade is the result of a misconception of facts, a correct knowledge of which would relieve him of any censure. Moreover, general, his removal from this brigade immediately after its participation in an action where it sustained itself with credit against heavy odds, casts an aspersion upon either the general or the troops, which we believe no facts in the case will justify. Our officers and men deeply feel the mortification of such action at such a time, and are sure that no ac- tion of theirs or their commanding general called for his removal. Second to our country our military credit is dearest to us, and as the removal of General Barton affects it, we respectfully ask that he be restored to his brigade. We have the honor to be, general, very respectfully, your obedient servants, WM. R. AYLETT, Colonel F4ty-third Virginia Regiment. JAS. J. PHILLIPS, Colonel Ninth Virginia Infantry. C. R. FONTAINE, Colonel Fifty-seventh Virginia Regiment. GEO. K. GRIOGS, Capt., Comdg. Thirty-eighth Virginia Regt. WM. WHITE, Colonel, Commanding Fourteenth Regiment Page 220 220 OPERATIONS IN SE. VA. AND N. C. [CHAP. XLVIII. We, the undersigned staff officers of the brigade, fully indorse the above communication and unite in the petition for the restoration of General Barton to the command of the brigade. Very respectfully, B. S. THOMPSON, Major and Quartermaster. J. D. DARDEN, Assistant Adjutant-General. W. W. HERBERT, Major and Oommissary of Subsistence. A. C. THOM, Assistant Adjutant and Inspector General. W. L. RANDOLPH, First Lieutenant and Ordnance Qfficer. [First indorsement.] HEADQUARTERS BARTONS BRIGADE, Respectfully forwarded. May 14, 1864. So far as I have been able to ascertain General Barton has the entire confidence of his brigade, and I would be gratified to see him restored to the command. B. D. FRY, Colonel, Commanding Brigade. [Second indorsement.] HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF RICHMOND, May 19, 1864. Respectfully forwarded. Having been absent from my office for a week nearly is the cause of delay in forwarding this paper. On Tuesday, the 10th instant, a reconnaissance with Bartons and Gracies brigades, together with Shinglers cavalry and Dunovants dismounted men, was made to ascertain the strength, l)Osition, & c., of the enemy near or on Win- frees farm, on the turnpike road leading to Petersburg. General Barton was directed to cover the country from the railroad to the turnpike with a line of skirmishers. Very soon after crossing Proc- tors Creek it was ascertained that a line of over half a mile next the railroad was without a man. I directed General Barton in person to have the gap filled. After some considerable delay I inquired if the line had been filled. General Barton replied it had, when one of his officers replied, The companies are just starting ; and I saw that the officers remark was correct. When we arrived at Perdues house the line of battle was formed, but General Barton was very slow in getting his men into position. Shortly after the attack was made General Barton reported that his left was being turned. I directed him to press his line to the left, as the movement on our part was toward the left. But a short time elapsed before General Barton again reported to me that his left was flanked. I ordered [him] to go at once in person and regain his position by moving his regiments to the left. Mean time General Gracie was brought to the right. General Gracie had gone down the river road. General Barton had one regiment and a half of a second on the left of the turnpike. This regiment and a half were forced across the turnpike to the right an Page 221 CHAP. XLVIII.] SOUTH SIDE OF THE JAMES. 221 did not go back, General Gracie coming up and putting his right on the ~turnpike. The personal gallantry of General Barton I do not question. He exposed himself to fire in my presence frequently, but his evident inability to manage his command caused me to ask f~r another commander for the brigade. The officers of this brigade have stated that the men did not misbehave. My own observation and that of my staff, and other gentlemen who were with me, will prove beyond a cavil that large numbers ran from the field and could notbe checked. I have stated that the regiment and a half on the left of the turnpike were forced across the turnpike to the right. I am satisfied that much the larger portion ~an directly from the field. When I can make a report of this combat the part acted by each regiment will be noted. I am happy to state that on the 16th instant, under Colonel Fry, this brigade performed its part well. Respectfully submitted. R. RANSOM, JR., Major- General. P. 5.In moving to the right General Gracie captured a party of some 40 men who had reached the left of General Barton. Anything like vigor on the part of General Barton would, in my judgment, have prevented the necessity of calling Gracie from his position, thereby exposing the left of the entire line and causing a withdrawal of the force much earlier than was contemplated. R. R., JR. [Third indorsement.] MAY 20, 1864. Respectfully referred to General Bragg. S. COOPER, Aajmtant and Inspector General. [Fourth indorsement.] HEADQUARTERS ARMIES CONFEDERATE STATES, May 21, 1864. Respectfully returned to Adjutant-General. The report of Major-General Ransom explains fully the reasons for the relieving of Brigadier-General Barton. The case comes under the act of February 17, 1864, to provide for retiring officers of the army. General Ransom has been called on for a detailed report, which will be submitted to the President for his action. In the mean time Brigadier-General Barton, if he desires it, can avail him- self of an investigation before an examining board as provided by the law. BRAXTON BRAGG, General. [Fifth indorsement.] JULY 21, 1864.. Respectfully submitted to the Secretary of War with a request that it may be brought to the consideration of the President. In my judgment the case should have an early investigation in order that Brigadier-General Barton may be afforded an opportunity of defending himself against the allegations made against him by Major-General Ransom, who recommends a court of inquiry. I do not concur with General Bragg that the case comes under the act of February 17, 1864, to provide for retiring officers of the army Page 222 222 OPERATIONS IN SE. VA. AND N. C. [Cu~. XLVIII. That act authorizes the President, on the recommendation of any general commanding a department or army, to discharge from seryice any officer of C. S. Army, & c., or who is incompetent, & c., provided that any officer who may be so discharged, & c., shall be entitled to a trial before an examining board, & c. Now, Brigadier-General Bar- ton was not so discharged, but only relieved from duty and ordered to report to General Bragg by General Ransom, who recommends that his case shall be investigated by a court of inquiry. S. COOPER, Adjutant and inspector General. General S. COOPER, RICHMOND, May 20, 1864. Adjutant and Inspector General: GENERAL: Will you permit me to call your attention again to the fact that I have been relieved from my comnniand, and to ask why? I was relieved under circumstances implying the gravest charges against my character as a soldier, and as yet have had 110 intimation of their nature; nor can my conduct suggest to me any cause. A days absence from service now may be of irreparable injury to me, and were it voluntary, a disgrace. I must run the risk of appearing importunate in order that I may be relieved of the imputation that my situation entails. I beg that I be informed whether ally allega- tions have been made against me by any one to lead to my being re- lieved from my command, and what they are; whether a petition from the regimental commanders of my brigade for my restoration has been received, and, if so, that I be furnished with copies of any indorseinents thereon. In short, I most urgently and earnestly ask that I may be informed of what I am accused, and insist that I may be heard before action thereupon be had by the Departihent. With great respect, your obedient servaiit, S. M. BARTON, Brigadier-General. HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF RICHMOND, May 21, 1864. General S. COOPER, Adjutant and Inspector General. I have just seen a report of Brigadier-General Barton made to you of the operations of his brigade on the 10th instant. For what I deemed sufficient reasons, I relieved him from command under the authority of law. That no injustice may be done I respectfully re- qhest that Brigadier-General Barton be allo~~ed full tinie and oppor- tunity for a thorough investigation of his conduct. I consider that he has violated orders in making his report directly to the Adjutant and Inspector General, and that it was but proper that such report should have been referred to me by the Adjutant and Inspector Gen- eral before being forwarded to the President. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, R. RANSOM, JR., Major- General Page 223 223 XLVIII.] SOUTH SIDE OF THE JAMES. HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF RICHMOND, May 21, 1864. General S. COOPER, Adjutant and Inspector General: GENERAL: I have the honor to submit the following report of Brigadier-General Bartons conduct on the 10th instant as the cause of my relieving him from command of his brigade under the act of Congress of February last: On the evening of 9th I gave orders to Brigadier-Generals Barton and Gracie to move at daylight the next morning, with a strong line of skirmishers extending from the railroad to the James River, across the turnpike leading from Richmond to Petersburg, and to feel the enemys position in our front. We were then in the works 011 the right and left of the turn p ike south of Drewrys Bluff. Each brigadier was directed to take charge of his own line of skirmishers. Barton was to cover from the railroad to the turnpike and Gracie from the turn p ike to the river. Just before daylight on the morn- ing of the lothl ascertained that the enemy was supposed to be in force of a brigade or two, with some artillery, at Winfrees house. At daylight I sent an order to the brigadiers above named to follow their skirmishers with their brigades about a mile in rear. When this order reached them the skirmishers had advanced about a mile or more, and the line was halted to bring up the brigades. During this halt I reached the line of skirmishers about half mile below Proctors Creek. I had sent a guide to the right along the railroad. At the point I overtookth e skirmish line he reported to me that more than half mile of. the line next the railroad was not covered by skirmishers. I in person ordered General Barton to cover it. Some considerable time e a sed, and I inquired if the skirmishers had been extended to the railroad. General Barton replied that they had, when an officer present answered, The companies are just start- iug. I turned and saw the companies not 80 yards from me. Con- siderable delay was occasioned by this. Finally the line was put in motion and moved to what is known as the Osborn road, leading from the Bermuda Hundred road and crossing the turnpike at right angles 400 yards in rear of Perdues house. Here the line was halted and orders given to General Barton to form his brigade in line of battle, one regiment and a half on the kft of the turnpike, 6ne regi- ment detached and sent to the right of the Bermuda Hundred road west of the turnpike, and the rest of the brigade between the turn- pike and the Bermuda Hundred road. (By reference to the map the disposition will be seen.) This line was established just in front of Perdues house, along a small stream. General Barton was very slow in getting his men into position, and after awhile reported the line formed. I asked if the regiment sent to right of Bermuda Hun- dred road had reached its position, and he replied it had not reported. I then directed him to ascertain, and commence the advance by a certain signal, after reporting that all the regiments were in position. When the attack was about to be made I was informed by one of General Gracies colonels that Gracies line of skirmishers lapped for a quarter of a mile upon Bartons line of battle, and that Barton had no skirmishers on that part of the line. I sent General Barton to throw out his own skirmishers, and when informed that all was ready gave the signal for advance. Orders had before been given to keep closed to the left. As Gracies left was on the river it was directed to stay there while we passed down the turnpike and Ber- muda~ Hundred road. Very soon after the advance was ordered th Page 224 224 OPERATIONS IN SE. VA. AND N. C. [CHAP. XLVIII. skirmishers engaged, and hai4lly had the musketry opened before the men on the left of the turnpike and just in front of Perdues house began to pour out. About fifteen or twenty minutes after the attack Lieutenant-Col- onel Cabefi, Thirty-eighth Virginia, was mortally wounded and passed me going to the rear. Almost immediately I discovered large numbers of men fleeing to the rear from the left of the turnpike, aIld General Barton rode up to me and reported that his left was be- ing turned. I told [him] to go back and press his men to the left; the movement was toward the left, and that we were closing that way every minute. The exodus from the field still continued. I saw General Barton several times on the turnpike and in the open field, riding about, seemingly without object. I was near him; saw no effort to close to the left, and nothing done to check the strag- glers. Finally, after about an hour from the beginning of the fight, which was not at any time hot, General Bartoii reported to me that his line had been pressed across the turnpike to the right, and that he was flanked. General Gracie was ordered to the right, and in reach- ing it captured some 40 or 50 of the enemyall that were met in his movement to the right. The regiment on the right of Bermuda Hundred road, under General Chilton, had done its work well, but the rest of the line of this brigade acted feebly, and from my ob- servation General Barton was incapable of making it act more vig- orously. The reports of my staff officers confirm my impressions. I was provoked that General Barton should leave his line to report in person the second time that he was flanked. The result of Gracies coming in and meeting little opposition, together with the fact of the enemys not attempting to press so signal an advantage, coii- vinced me that General Barton was not equal to a proper manage- ment of troops under the ordinary emergencies of battle. To sum up: First, General Barton was advancing his line of skir- mishers with over half niile of his proper line without a man on it; second, when directed to coniplete the line lie reported it so before the men necessary to that end had hardly started; third, tardiness in putting his men in position; fourth, reporting hue formed before knowing that one regiment was in place; fifth, not k]iowing that his front was covered by the skirmishers of another brigade; sixth, re- porting his flank twice turned and not throwing his troops to that point, as directed, and general want of apparent vigor. Of his gal- la~tr~ I have no question, as he was under fire all the time, and if injustice has been done him an investigation will prove it. The facts above stated can be substantiated above questioii. My conclu- sions may be wrong, but I do not believe it. I shall have occasion tonotice the reporf of General Barton, which was sent directly to the Adjutant and Inspector General, when I send in a report of the combat. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, R. RANSOM, JR., Major- General. HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF RICHMOND, illay 23, 1864. General S. COOPER, A6~jntant and Inspector General: GENERAL: A full report of the causes for removing General Bar- ton from his brigade was made on 21st. Upon a thorough in~estiga Page 225 CHAP. XLVIII.] SOUTH SIDE OF THE JAMES. 225 tion of the law, I find that he will not be allowed an opportunity for a hearing till after he may be retired, should the President so de- cide; and as there would be great difficnlty, if not impossibility, in his getting such examination now as is due him, I respectfully request that action be suspended until he can have the advantage of a court of inquiry, should he so desire. Very respectfully, R. RANSOM, JR., Major- General. [First indorsement.] MAY 23, 1864. Respectfully submitted to the Secretary of War, with recommenda- tion that court of inquiry be ordered in this case, as suggested by General Ransom and requested by General Barton. S. COOPER, Adjutant and Inspector General. [Second indorsement.] MAY 23, 1864. ADJUTANT-GENERAL: Your suggestion is approved. Let a court of inquiry be convened. J. A. SEDDON, Secretary. General S. COOPER, RICHMOND, May 23, 1864. Adjutant and Inspector General; GENERAL: I have the honor to request that a court of inqniry be called as soon as the interest of the service may allow to investigate certain allegations made against me by Maj. Gen. R. Ransom, Pro- visional Army, C. S. Very respectfulI~r, your obedient servant, S. M. BARTON, Brigadier-General. SPECIAL ORDERS,) WAR DEPARTMENT, C. S. A., ADJT. AND INSPECTOR GENERALS OFFICE, No. 123. ) Richmond, Va., May 27, 1864. * * * * * * II. On the application of Brig. Gen. S. M. Barton a court of in- quiry is hereby ordered to convene in this city on the 7th proximo, or as soon thereafter as practicable, to inquire into certain allega- tions as to the conduct of Brig. Gen. S. M. Barton on the 10th in- stant made by Maj. Gen. Robert Ransom, Jr. Detail for the Court: Maj. Gen. John P. McCown, Brig. Gen. A. G. Blanchard, Maj. Gen~ W. M. Gardner, Maj. L. R. Page, assist- ant adjutant-general, judge-advocate. The Court will report fully the facts, and will express its opinion on the merits of the case. By command of the Secretary of War: JNO. WITHERS, Assistant Adjutant- Gent~ral. l~3 R RVOL XXXVI, PT I Page 226 226 OPERATIONS IN SE. VA. AND N. C. [CHAP. XLVIIL SPECIAL ORDERS, ADJT. AND JNSP. GENERALS OFFICE, No. 130. Richmond, June 4, 1864. * * * * * * * XII. Paragraph II, Special Orders, No. 123, current series, con- vening court of inquiry in the case of Brig. Gen. S. M. Barton, Pro- visional Army~ C. S., is ,hereby revoked. * * * * * * * By command of the Secretary of War: JNO. WITHERS, Assistant Adjutant- General. RICHMOND, June 4, 1864. General S. COOPER, Adjutant and Inspector General: GENERAL: I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of Special Orders, No. 130, paragraph XII, revoking paragraph II, Special Orders, No. 123, current series, convening court of inquiry in the case of Brig. Gen. S. M. Barton, Provisional Army, C. S. If it be intended to refuse me an investigation, I most earnestly ask that this action be reconsidered, for the following reasons, viz: Major-General Ransom, without authority, and in violation of General Orders, No. 141, 1863, Adjutant and Inspector Generals Office, deprived me of my command. He has submitted his rea- sons therefor, alleging six offenses of omission and commission, two of which impugn my honor. I deny the truth of all these alle- gations and demand investigation. Under the Ninety-second Act of War and custom of service, I am entitled to this investigation. That I have a right to be heard in my defense cannot be denied, and there exists no other law by which I may demand this right. The act of February 17, 1864, cannot apply to the case, because it is es- sential that there be the recommendation of a general commaiiding a department or separate army in the field. There is no such recom- mendation. On the contrary, an explicit denial of it is contained in a letter from the department commander dated May 23, 1864, ad- dressed to you. I have already suffered irreparable wrong in loss of command, deprivation of service, injury to reputation and its concomitant mortifications. I claim that these sufferings are un- deserved; have proceeded from false accusations and been illegally inflicted, and I appeal to the law for redress, and to that law under which alone I am able to appeal. With great respect, your obedient servant, S. M. BARTON, Brigadier-General. [First indorsement.] ADJUTANT AND INSPECTOR GENERALS OFFICE, June 6, 1864. Respectfully submitted to the Secretary of War. H. L. CLAY, Assistant Adjutant-General Page 227 CHAP. XLVIII.] SOUTH SIDE OF THE JAMES. 227 [Second indorsement.] JUNE 7, 1864. Respectfully submitted to the Presideut for his consideration. The case presented would seem to demand some opportunity for investigation. J. A. SEDDON, Secretary. [Third indorsement.] ADJUTANT-GENERAL C. S. ARMY: Returned for inquiry as to the action taken, particularly whether General Ransom was or was not directed to make his presentation of the case conform to the law under which he had acted. JEFFERSON DAVIS. [Fourth indorsement.] ADJUTANT AND INSPECTOR GENERALS OFFICE, August 2, 1864. Respectfully returned to the President. All the papers in the case of Brigadier-General Barton were sub- mitted to the Secretary of War the ~:3d ultimo. They contain all the information of record in this office touching it. In the absence and by direction of the Adjutant and Inspector General: H. L. CLAY, Assistant Adjutant-General. [Fifth indorsement.] SEPTEMBER 1, 1864. General Bragg for attention, so that the right to investigation shall be secured. JEFFERSON DAVIS. [5ixth indorsement.i HEADQUARTERS ARMIES CONFEDERATE STATES, Richmond, December 20, 1864. Respectfully returned to the Adjutant-General. General Ransom was notified bf this application. No official reply has been received from him at these headquarters, but he has verbally informed General Bragg, in North Carolina, that he had already reported the whole case to the Adjutant-General. For General Bragg and in his absence: JNO. B. SALE, Colonel and Military Secretary. CAMP OF BARTONS BRIGADE, Chesterfield County, Va., August 22, 1864. Col. WALTER H. TAYLOR Assistant Adjutant-General: SIR: On May 11, 1864, Brigadier-General Barton was relieved of the command of this brigade. As soon thereafter as practicable a Page 228 228 OPERATIONS IN SE. VA. AND N. C. [CHAI. XLVIII. application for his return was made by his regimental commanders (a copy of which is inclosed*), which application was followed by a similar one from the remaining officers of the brigade, requesting the restoration of General Barton to his command, and expressing their entire confidence in his ability and ~gallantry. More than three months have elapsed without definite action in the case, during which time much undeserved obloquy has been cast upon the officers and men of the brigade. The indorsemeut of General Ransoms on the application of regimental commanders for the return of General Barton presents such conflict that justice requires an investigation. We, therefore, respectfully request of the commanding general such action as will tend to elicit all the facts connected with the battle of May 10, 1864, near Chester, touching the conduct of the officers and men of the brigade. The inclosed papers are respectfully forwarded for examination. We respectfully renew the request for the return of General Barton to his brigade. We have the honor to be, very respectfully, your obedient servants, WM. WHITE, Colonel Fourteenth Virginia Regiment. GEO. K. GRIGGS, Lieutenant-Colonel Thirty-eighth Virginia Regiment. W. H. RAMSEY, Lieutenant-Colonel Fifty-seventh Virginia Infantry. JAS. J. PHILLIPS, Colonel, Commanding Ninth Virginia Infantry. [First indorsement.] HDQRS. BARTONS BRIGADE, PICKETTS DIVISION, August 22, 1864. Respectfully forwarded. Application of regimental . commanders warmly approved. Maj. Gen. R. Ransom, jr., in his indorsement on the paper of May 11, sent up by the regimental commanders of Bartons brigade, makes and tenders an issue of veracity with those officers. We accept it. Justice to the officers and men of this command, to the memories of those who fell on May 10, 1864, to the service, and to the honor and reputation of this brigade as an integral part of the Army of Northern Virginia, all require that this matter shall be brought to such a conclusion as that the allegations of Maj. Gen. R. Ransom, jr., if susceptible of proof, shall be made good or fail of substan- tiation. WM. R. AYLETT, Colonel, Commanding Brigade. [Second indorsement.] HEADQUARTERS PICKETTS DIVISION, August 24, 1864. Respectfully forwarded. A recommendation for an officer to command this brigade was sent up some time since. G. E. PICKETT, ]IIajor- General. *See p. 219 Page 229 CHAI~. XLVIII.j SOUTH SIDE OF THE JAMES. 229 [Third indorsement.] HEADQUARTERS, August 27, 1864. Respectfully submitted to the honorable Secretary of War. I know of no obloquy or censui~e cast upon the men or officers of Bartons brigade. General George H. Stenart has been assigned to its command. R. E. LEE, General. [Fourth indorsement.] SEPTEMBER 1, 1864. Steps are being taken to have General Bartons case properly dis- posed of. No other action on these papers is deemed necessary at present. J. A. SEDDON. [Fifth indorsement.] Respectfully submitted to the President, with the opinion of the Adjutant and Inspector General and various papers in the case of Brigadier- General Barton. The Department does not concur with Geiieral Bragg in the opin- ion he has given as to the present relation of Brigadier-General Barton to the service. The act of February 17, 1864, to provide for retiring officers from the army, does not give to a general the power to discharge an officer and to impose upon him the necessity of ap- pearing before an examination board, as is supposed. The Presi- dent may discharge an officer under that act upon the recoinmenda- tion of a general in the field commanding an army or a department commander. No recommendation has been made in this case to the President, and the President has made no such order. General Barton has no claim for an examination board, nor under an obliga- tion to ask for one. General Ransom and General Barton were 1)0th acting un(ler General Beauregard, and in General Beauregards department, when General Ransom relieved General Barton from his command. General Ransom was not in the condition to make the recommendation prescribed by the act aforesaid; but the case as presented does not show the case mentioned by the statute. The case presented in the act is incompetency or inefficiency, not on a particular occasion or under special circumstances, but such general inconipetency or inefficiency as to authorize a general commanding to recommend, and the President to direct, a discharge from the army. The question for the President to deterniine is, whether upon the proofs submitted Brigadier-General Barton is entitled to be returned to his command, or whether he should have a court of inquiry or be tried before a military court. For Secretary of War: J. A. CAMPBELL, Assistant Secretary of War. [5ixth indorsement.] SECRETARY OF WAR: Please review this statement as well of fact as th4 operation of the law referred to. Had or had not General Ransom a separat Page 230 230 OPERATIONS IN SE. VA. AND N. C. [CHAP. XLVIII. command? Did he or did he not ask to have the officer relieved for such reason as brought the case within the act ? Especially review that paragraph of the indorsement of your assistant which states the scope of the act. JEFFERSON DAVIS. HEADQUARTERS, Lines near Chaffins, November 24, 1864. General S. COOPER, Adjutant and inspector General: GENERAL: I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of a letter from your office under date of the 19th instant, covering copies of the strictures upon my conduct in the affair of May 10 last, made by Maj. Gen. R. Ransom, jr., and gladly avail myself of the invitation to make my response. Some delay has occurred from my duties in the field, which cannot be subordinated to any personal interest, however important. On the afternoon of May 9 General Ransom ordered General Gracie and myself to niove at daybreak next morning with one regi- ment each from our respective brigades, connected at the Peters- burg turnpike and deployed as skirmishersGeneral Gracies regi- ment to James River and mine to the railroadto sweep the country and ascertain the position and strength of the enemy. Selecting the Fourteenth Virginia, Colonel White commandingwhich was the second regiment of my brigade in strength and containing several companies from Chesterfield County, one chiefly from the imniediate locality we were to traverse, in which a portion had been scouting for the few preceding daysI caused it to be deployed at night as a portion of our picket-line about a mile from the camp, to be in readiness to move at the earliest dawn. Just before moving, the next morning, I discovered that the regi- ment thus deployed did not quite reach the railroad. At the camp of the brigade the turmipike and railroad were not far apart, and a regi- ment deployed as skirmishers would have more than covered the space, they gradually diverge for some ~1istance and then converge, crossing each other. Having thus to choose between a substantial compliance with the order, the stretching exactly to the railroad, which was in sight, being really unimportant, and the probable fail- ure of the movement from the delay necessary to obtain the men to fill the gap, I determined to proceed at once, a decision I have doubted the correctness of. General Ransom states in his indorse- ment of the application of the commanders of regiments of my bri- gade for my restoration to its command that I was directed to cover the country from the turnpike to the railroad with a line of skirmishers. In his report of my conduct he speaks of a strong line of skirmishers from the railroad to James River, extending across the turnpike. He does not state that I was ordered to cover the space between the turnpike and railroad with one regimnent. This is an important omission. As he has made the fact that this space was not covered a subject of grave complaint against nine, there can be no possible mistake on my part as to his having specified the force I was to emphy. The singularity of the order directing his two briga- diers to take each one regiment and to use them deployed as skirmish- ers fixed it upon my attention, and the loud, imperious tones of th Page 231 CHAP. XLVIII.] SOUTH SIDE OF THE JAMES. 231 order given in presence of General Gracie and myself, with portions of our respective staff officers and his own, and a number of soldiers and camp followers, in hearing, afforded too many witnesses as to its terms for me to have any difficulty in firmly establishing it beyond cavil. Soon after moving, an impracticable swamp on my line of march reqnired a detour to the right, which leaving General Gracies right unprotected he extended his line a short distance, about 100 yards, across and to the right of the turnpike. After passing the swamp I deployed again to the left, rejoining General Gracie, who did not withdraw his line across the turnpike. After proceeding some 1~ or 2 miles I received an order from General Ransom to wait for my brigade, which had been ordered to follow about a mile in rear of the skirmish line. The brigade and General Ransom arrived about the same time. Colonel Shingler, commanding cavalry regiment, joined us almost immediately afterward, and henot a guide, as stated by General Ransomreported that my skirmishers did not reach the railroad by about half a mile, this being about the point of greatest divergence of the two roads. General Ransom, in a violent and highly offensive manner, inquired of me why I had not obeyed his order in covering the ground to the railroad, and without waiting for a reply ordered me to have the gap filled. I sent one of my staff officers to the brigade, about 200 yards distant, to take two companies and fill the gap. General Ransom states that after waiting a con- siderable time he inquired of me whether the gap was filled, to which I replied that it had been; whereupon an officer remarked, The two companies have just started, and pointed them out at not more than 80 yards distance. The officer charged with the execution of the order rode at speed to the brigade, and taking two companies from a point not over 200 yards from where we were, started them in a diagonal line toward the position they were to occupy; and finding it difficult to accompany them on horseback, on account of the thick undergrowth, returned along the road to meet them. As he reached our position he heard General Ransoms question and my answer, and in corroboration pointed to the companies just passing. I cannot state with precision the terms of General Ransoms ques- tion. The considerable time which he speaks of did not exceed five minutes. I understood, as did my staff officer, the question to refer to the movement of the troops, not to their arrival at their destina- tion, a point more than a mile distant, and it was answered by us both accordingly. Under the circumstances the time which had elapsed and the distance to be marched, such a question as that stated by General Ransom to have been asked by him would have been pre- posterous. This simple statement of facts is the only reply I deem necessary to make here to the insinuation contained in his allegation, and I will not imitate his want of charity by ascribing his impres- sions or his statements to any other cause than an impatience of temper, which perverted his observation of time or his recollection of what had passed. General Ransom complains that I reported to him my line of battle formed, which he says was tardily done with- out knowing that one regiment was in place. Colonel Fontaines (Fifty-seventh Virginia) had been detached, as stated by General Ran- som, and sent to the extreme right of the Fourteenth by his order, and was placed by him nuder the command of Col. ,R. H. Chilton, a staff officer, together with Dunovants dismounted cavalry; knowing which, I of course no longer considered it as being under my co Page 232 232 OPERATIONS IN SE. VA. AND N. C. [cHAP. XLVIII. mand. and did not, therefore, iiYclude it in reporting my line of battle formed, that regiment being about a mile distant. I positively deny that there was any tardiness in the formation of the line of battle. Educated a soldier, with fifteen years experience in the army, I deem myself a competent judge of the execution of a tacti- cal movement. The troops were trained and veteran soldiers, ~nd I assert that the movement was executed rapidly, steadily, and hand- somely. Whether tardily execnted or not, no delay resulted from it, for it had been formed, been reported, and waited more than half an hour before an advance was ordered. General Ransom charges further that I was ignorant of the fact that Gracies skirmishers covered part of my front. I discovered the fact and reported it by the colonel in command to General Ransom. Gracie had been ordered to the left. His movement was not communicated to the right of the turnpike, and the por- tion of his skirmishers already mentioned as being on that side had been separated from the rest. My examination of my front after the line was formed revealed this to me, and I directed the colonel (McLennan) to report it to General Ransoni. He brought me a con- fused set of directions from General Ransom, which he could not make intelligible, and I went to General Ransom in person, and after some difficulty was informed as to what he desired, viz, to cover my front with additional skirmishers, being assured at the same time that Gracie would close in to the right and connect with me, which was never done until after the fight was over and my brigade had fallen back, in obedience to General Ransom~ s order, behind the point at which my line of battle had originally been formed. In consequence of the, gap thus left between Gracie and myself, the enemy, greatly superior in number and overlapping when pressed back on my front, were left on my flank. The first time I threw back two companies and repulsed them, and reported the fact to General Ransom by a staff officer (Captain Thom), not in person as stated by General Ransom. Advancing still farther through the dense and tangled woods, my flanks were still more exposed. I found it necessary to turn back the whole of the left regiment parallel to the turnpike and a part of the right regiment to meet their attacks. Having no mounted officer with me, and deeming it of importance that General Ransom should be informed of the position of affairs, after giving the necessary orders and seeing them in process of ex- ecution I rode in person to inform General Rausoni, and to ask that horses might be sent to bring off a captured gun. Not waiting to hear me out, General Ransom, in the most offensive manner, ordered me to return and supervise the movement in person. I am unable to perceive the alleged fault of twice reporting my flanks turned, such being the fact of high importance and not proceeding from any error of mine, but caused by General Gracies line being separated by Gen- eral Ransoms orders. General Ransom states that he saw me several times riding on the turnpike and in an open field, apparently without object. This as- sertion is not correct. After moving into the woods at the com- mencement of the fight I was with the troops in the woods without ever leaving them for an instant, save on the single occasion when I reported the enemy on my flanks, and was never where stated by General Ransom. The only explanation I can give of this statement of General Ransoms is that when entering the woods I was riding a horse.of a conspicuous color, which, becoming unmanageable fro Page 233 OHAP. ICLVIII.1 ~0UTH SIDE OV THE JAMES. the firing, I dismounted from and turned loose, mounting the horse of my assistant adjutant-general, which I rode during the advance. When forced back and compelled to abandon the captured gun, hav- ing dismounted to pass an obstruction, as I was in the act of re- mounting with foot in stirrup this horse was killed by a cannon-ball, sprinkling me with his blood and driving pieces of his bones into my boot. During the remainder of the fight I was on foot. My clerk, who had caught my own horse, brought him to me in the woods, and I rode him out when the action was over Seeing me enter the woods on this horse at the beginning of the action and come out on him at its close, General Ransom may have supposed I had been riding him during the action, which he may have seen ridden by the clerk and mistaken him for me. This is the only explanation I can give of his assertion, which, so far as I am concerned, is without the slightest foundation. General Ransom in both papers referred to me lays particular stress upon his statements of the movement being to the left, and that the regiment and a half on the left of the road were forced across the turnpike to the right. As I have already stated in my report: The axis of our march not being exactly parallel to the turnpike, and the dress being to the right, some divergence had occurred between the two portions of the Ninth. I accordingly crossed the left half of this regiment to the right of the road, and, moving the Thirty-eighth obliquely, re-established the connection. This movement occurred in the advance, which inclined to the right and not to the left of the road, as stated by General Ransom, and consequently they were never forced across the road at all, and General Ransom is in error in supposing that I so reported; and the regiment (Thirty-eighth) which was on the left of the Ninth never crossed the road until after the fight was over and we had retired by General Ransoms order and reformed the line. Then, and not until then, did that regiment cross the turnpike, on which the right of Gracies brigade (only then arrived) was posted, which explains why Gracie met with so little resistance in his movement to the right. These strictures of General Ransoms gave me the first intimation I have ever had that the movement was to the left. He had ordered me to advance to the cross-roads (Bermuda Hun- dred and turnpike), and not to proceed farther; nor would it have been practicable to execute a movement to the left at the time he says he gave the order, for both flanks had been turned and were heavily pressed, as well as the front. General Ransoms statememit seems to imply that General Gracies movement and connection took place during the engagement, which is not the fact. The truth is, General Ransom formed his line of battle with a wide gap between General Gracie s command and my own, an(l thus advanced me against a continuous double line of the enemy, consisting of at least a corps, and not one or two brigades, as supposed by him; and I cannot see that any amount of vigor on my part could have prevented the necessity of calling Gracie from his position, and causing a withdrawal of the forces much earlier than was contemplated. On the contrary, I aver that my command penetrated to within 50 yards of a road beyond which I had been ordered not proceed, capturing prisoners from two divis.. ions. In thus forcing back the largely superior force of the enemy it seems to me that my brigade did not act feebly, but evinced considerable vigor.~ Page 234 234 OPERATIONS IN SE. VA. AND N. C. [CHAP. XLVIII. General Ransom complains in both papers of the condnct of the brigade on the 10th, and in his indorsement says: I am happy to state that on the 16th instant, under Colonel Fry, this brigade per- formed its part well. The officers of the brigade agree that it behaved better on the 10th than on the 16th, and I am prepared to prove that General Ransom complained bitterly to Colonel Fry on the 16th of the misconduct of the brigade on that day. I have thus disposed of the special instances alleged by General Ransom as misconduct. The reason assigned by General Ransom for his frequently-expressed opinion of my incompetency to com- mand, namely, the result of Gracies coming in and meeting little opposition, together with the fact of the enemys not attempting to press so signal an advantage, convinced me that General Barton was not equal to a proper management of troops under the ordinary emergencies of battle, is, to say the least, illogical and inconse- quential, as it is not easy to perceive what connection General Gracie not finding opposition (who did not come up till after the fight, nor pass over the field of battle) or the enemys failure to use his advantage had to do with my competency to command. As for his opinion itself of my inability to manage troops and general want of apparent vigor, I will only respond by referring to that expressed by all the officers of the brigade, who have seen much service on many a haird-fought field. If General Ransom thinks vehemence of action, speech, and gesture more indicative of vigor than quietness of demeanor, IL do not agree with him, and have always considered that true vigor and energy are rather to be found in those who keep cool and retain quiet possession of all their facul- ties. I feel that I should be grossly derelict in my duty to close this lengthy communication without protesting against the imputations cast by General Ransom upon the gallant brigade which I had the honor to command, though it does seem almost superfluous to say anything in regard to a command which has borne itself so nobly on so many occasions; but I feel it incumbent upon me to deny emphatically the charges of straggling, & c., so recklessly made. The straggling was the least I have ever seen in action. As soon as the new position was taken up the rolls were called and only 34 men found missing, of whom 9 subsequently to my report came in wounded. The casualties amounted to 249, out of less than 1,500 engaged. The circumstances under which this paper has been written, and the haste proceeding from my anxiety to present it at once, have prevented the subject being treated in a manner satisfactory to my- self, and the fear of adding to its already too great prolixity induces me to pass without notice some of the statements contained in the papers referred to me. Believing, however, that this communication, together with my report, will embrace all the material points, I will only add that I invite the closest scrutiny and the most rigid investigation into my conduct and that of the brigade, which have been unjustly and causelessly assailed. I am, general, with great respect, your obedient servant, S. M. BARTON, Brigadier-General Page 235 Ciiip. XLVIII.] 235 SOUTH SIDE OF THE JAMES. [Indorsement.] DECEMBER 1, 1864. Respectfully submitted to the President. S. COOPER, Adjutant and Inspector General. EXECUTIVE OFFICE, C. S. A., Richmond, Va., hi/larch 20, 186~i. Capt. R. G. H. KEAN, Chief of Bureau of War: DEAR SIR: Mr. Burton N. Harrison, private secretary, directs the return of the inclosed papers, to be filed with the proceedings of a court of inquiry in case of General S. M. Barton, referred to your office for file from this office on the 9th instant. I am, respectfully, yours, M. H. CLARK, Cleric. No. 92. Report of C~ol. George K. Griggs, Thirty-eighth Virginia Infantry, of operations May 327. HDQRS. THIRTY-EIGHTH VIRGINIA REGIMENT, November , 1864. COLONEL: I have the honor to make the following report of the part taken by my regiment in the present campaign: At the opening of the campaign the regiment, 303 strong, com- manded by Col. Joseph R. Cabell, was (loing duty at New, McClellan, and Grape Vine Bridges, on the Chickahominy River. On May 5 it was ordered to and marched with the brigade to Hanover Junction. On May 7 it took train at Taylorsville for Richniond, and thence to Drewrys Bluff, and performed duty in trenches until May 10. It was engaged with its brigade (Bartons) and fought the forces of General Butler, U. S. Army, estimated at from 20,000 to 30,000 strong, upon the Richmond and Petersburg turnpike. In this action my regiment was formed on the left of the brigade and left of the turnpike. About 9 a. m. the signal of advance was given; the regiment moved forward and soon engaged the enemys skirmishers, driving them upon~ their line of battle. At this point I found my left entirely unprotected and the enemy upon a line with my own. I immediately reported the fact to Colonel Cabell and one of General Bartons staff and deployed my left (Company K, Lient. W. G. Cabaniss commanding) perpendicularly to my line of battle and con- tinued the advance, breaking and driving back three lines of battle. The regiment captured two pieces of artillery. My ranks having in this time become so much depleted from cas- ualties, and the enemy on my left having passed around in my rear, I was ordered by Captain Thom, assistant adjutant and inspector general, to fall back, and, turning about, the regiment fought its way out, killing about 15, wounding many, and capturing 50 of th Page 236 OPE1~ATtO~s fl~ SE. VA. AND N. 0. IcHAP. XLVIII. Thirteenth Indiana Veterans. My loss in the regiment was heavy (64), and none are more regretted than the brave and noble Colonel Cabell, who fell mortally wonnded early in the action. I cannot mention particular instances of gallantry where all acted so well. The regiment was engaged after this in the trenches aronnd Rich- mond, operating against Sheridans raiders, until the battle of Drewrys Blnff,May 16. The brigade, nnder command of Colonel Fry, formed a part of the attacking force on the left, snpporting Hokes (North Carolina) brigade. Owing to the density of the fog, this brigade was invisible at 40 paces, and having left my front with- out my knowledge, niy regiment was precipitated against the enemys works, and many were shot down without firing a gun while labor- ing under the (lelusion that General Hokes troops were in our front, and it was not until we were within 20 paces of the enemy that we returned his fire. Then with much reduced ranks a few of the right and many of the left wing entered the enemys works and captured a good many prisoners. I lost here many good men who had attested their gallantry on many bloody fields. On the 18th the regiment, with the brigade, took the train for Mil- ford, and marched thence for Spotsylvania. Finding the army falling back, we returned to Hanover Court-house, having marched two days and nights on short rations and with little rest. On May 27 the division was recruited and General Pickett took command, to the great joy of all. * I have the honor to be, very respectfully, your obedient servant, GEO. K. GRIGGS, Commanding Thirty-eighth Virginia Regiment. Col. W. H. TAYLOR. No. 93. Report of Maj. Gem Robert F. Hoke, C. S. Army, commanding division, of operations May 16. HEADQUARTERS HOKES DIVISION, May 25, 1864. CAPTAIN: On Sunday, the 15th instant, the intention to attack the enemy on the morning of the 16th at early light was made known to me by the commanding general while occupying the intermediate line of intrenchments around Drewrys Bluff, and confronting the enemy, who occupied th~ outer line of said intrenchments, extending his right through the woods in the direction of James River, while his left rested upon an elevated position across the railroad, with his masses immediately in front of our right and resting upon the rail- road. The commanding general seeing the right was the weak point of the enemy, determined upon this as the point of attack. The bri- gades of Colquitt and Ransom were ordered relieved by an extension of my line to the right, which placed my division in line of battle, commencing at Fort Stevens, with Hagoods brigade on the left, Johnsons on his right. then Chiugman, with Corse upon his right. These t~o brigades, under command of General Colquitt, were held * For continuation of report, see Vol. XL, Part I Page 237 C~p. XLVIII.] SOUTH SIDE OF THE JAMES. 237 in reserve immediately in rear of Hagoods brigade. The division commanded by Major-General Ransom, being in the field on our ex- treme left, was to turn the right of the enemy and pivot upon his right and connect with my left, while I was to engage the enemy in front with strong lines of skirmishers, and also open upon them with all my artillery. At the earliest dawn I orderedmy entire artillery to open, and advanced the skirmishers of my whole front, and awaited the movement on my left for one hour before advancing my line of battle, thinking it would require this length of time to make the move, and knowing I must lose heavily by an advance upon the front, which it was the desire of the commanding general to avoid by the flank move. Owing to the dense fog, I could see nothing of the movement of Major-General Ransom, and supposing by this time the right of the enemy had been turned, I ordered forward the brigades of Hagood and Johnson, with one section of Lieutenant-Colonel Eshlemans artil- lery, and found the enemy still occupying our outer line of intrench- ments in heavy force, supported by eight pieces of artillery, with a second line of intrenchments along the line of woods immediately in front of our outer line of works. After commencing the move I could not recede, and ordered an attack by these two brigades, which was handsomely and gallantly done, which resulted in the capture of five pieces of artillery by Hagoods brigade and a number of prisoners, besides killing and wounding many, and also in occupying the works. One regiment on the left of Hagoods brigade extended across the outer line of works in the direction of James River, which was or- dered forward to connect with the right of General Ransoms divis- ion, but to my amazement found the enemy in strong force behind intrenchments. It was not intended that this regiment should attack the enemy in this position, as the movement was to be made by the troops on the left, but they in their eageriiess to enter the engage- ment did so, and, I am sorry to say, suffered most heavily. When it was seen that the enemy still occupied my front, this regiment was ordered back to the line of intrencliments to await the further devel- opment of the flank movement. In the mean time the enemy made two charges upon the front of Hagood and Johnson to retake the lost works and artillery, but was most handsomely repulsed, and was followed on the left of Hagoods brigade, and driven from the woods in their front, and with the assistance of our artillery the pike was cleared of the enemy before the flanking column reached that point. During this time the masses of the enemy between our intermediate and outer line of works had moved upon the right flank and rear of General Johnson, which was some distance on the right of the pike and in the outer line of works, and made his position quite critical, but the stubbornness of the gen- eral made it all right. He was repeatedly attacked in this position, but repulsed every effort of the enemy. It was at this time I was anxious to get a brigade to throw down the outer line of works, which would have completely placed that portion of the enemy in the woods between our outer and intermediate lines at our mercy, but owing to a misunderstanding of the officer who conducted these forces they were placed in position improperly, and were of no avail. During these repeated attacks upon the right of General Johnson I became alarmed for him, as he had several times sent to me for assistance, and ordered two regiments of Cliugmans brigade tQ report to him, which I did with great reluctance, as I felt it wonld defeat my plan Page 238 238 OPERATIONS IN SE. VA. AND N. C. [CHAP. XLVIII. on my right, but necessity compelled me. In order also to relieve the position of General Johnson, which was our key, I ordered for- ward Corse with his brigade and Clingman with his two regiments. They went forward in good style, and drove the enemy from their front, but owing to the superior numbers and strong intrenchments they were not able to drive them entirely from their positions. The commanding general will recollect that I before stated that the strength of the enemy was in front of these two brigades, both in position and forces, and therefore great credit should be given them for their actions. They were both small commands, but did their duty well. At the time the attack was made the enemy felt as if our forces were coming on them from all sides, and commenced retreating hastily. The losses of these commands were necessarily heavy, owing to a front attack. I cannot refrain from calling the attention of the general com- manding to the fact that his desire to relieve my command of a front attack by the flank move was in no portion of the line accompli shed, in consequence of which my losses are very heav y.My brigade commanders entered into the move with spirit, and rendered every co-operation, for which I am under many obligations. A report of casualties has been furnished. I respectfully call attention to the names who are spoken of for gallantry mentioned in the inclosed re- ports of the brigade commanders. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, R. F. HOKE, Capt. J. M. OTEY, Major-General. Assistant Adjutc~t-General. No. 94. Report of Lieut. Got. George C. Gabell, Eighteenth Virginia Infan try, Gorses brigade, of operations May 16. The Eighteenth Virginia at this action [Drewrys Bluff] was still attached to Corses brigade, then serving in Hokes division. The action commenced on the morning of May 16 by an attack on the enemys right by our left wing. This attack pressing the enemy back induced them to commence a heavy attack upon our front. Several advances of the enemy upon our works were repelled, when at about 9 or 10 oclock we left the fortifications, having driven back their first line of battle (they advanced in three lines), charged them, and, after a very heavy fight, indeed, beat them, killing and wound- ing great numbers and taking many prisoners. We suffered, too, very heavily. We pursued the enemy 2 miles or more. While on the charge above alluded to, I was shot down by a minie-ball enter- ing my face and coming out below and behind my left ear, having passed entirely through my face. I was, of course, taken from the field and the command turned over to Colonel Carrington, who, I learned, pushed forward on the charge and made a very brilliant thing of it. This was one of the hardest fought battles of the war, and the results ought to have been magnificent for our country. GEO. C. CA)3ELL, Lieutenant-Colonel Eighteenth Virginia Page 239 CHAP. XLVIII.] SOUTH SIDE OF THE JAMES. 239 No. 95. Report of Brig. Gen. Bushrod R. Johnson, #7. S. Army, command- ing brigade, of operations May 611. HEADQUARTERS JOHNSONS BRIGADE, Drewrys Bluff, May 31, 1864. SIR: I submit the following report of the operations of the troops under my command on the south side of James River from May 6 to 11, inclusive: At 3 a. m. on the 6th instant I arrived at Drewrys Bluff from Chaffins farm with my brigade, numbering in the aggregate 1,168, officers and men present, and occupied Fort Stevens. About S a. m. a part of the Twenty-first South Carolina Regiment, of Hagoods brigade, under Lieutenant-Colonel Dargan, arrived and was placed in position. While making a personal examination of the adjacent country, a dispatch from Major-General Ransom, commanding de- partment, was received by my assistant adjutant-general, ordering Hagoods brigade to proceed immediately to Port Waithall Junction by rail, if there was a train to carry it. There being no train at the station, some three or four dispatches were exchanged in my absence by my assistant adjutant-general, during which correspondence the detachment of the Twenty-first South Carolina Regiment marched for Port WaIthall Junction. About 11 a. m. the following dispatch was handed to me in person: RICHMOND, VA., May 6, 1864. Brig. Gen. B. R. JOHNSON: I am astonished Hagoods brigade is not now at Port Waithall Junction. March it, and, if necessary to stop the enemy, your own, too, as quickly as possible to that point. The railroad must not fall into the enemys hands. Rapidity is necessary. Act at once. If the enemy be at Port Waithall Junction dislodge him. R. RANSOM, Major-General. This was the first intimation I had that the enemy was threaten- ing the railroad. I immediately put my brigade in motion, and had advanced to within about 2 miles of the junction, when I received the following dispatch from Maj. F. W. Smith, commanding at Drewrys Bluff: GENERAL: Our scouts report the enemy at Ware Bottom Church, 6 miles hence. I have already sent couriers to you with this intelligence. Had you not best re- turn, as the Yankees have burned houses on the river and the fleet is advancing? F. W. SMITH, Major, Commanding. As everything was quiet in direction of Port Walthall Junction, I halted my command, sent a staff officer to communicate with Lieu- tenant-Colonel Dargan, now at the Junction, and endeavored to ob- tain further information of the movements of the enemy. About S p.m. I heard firing at Walthall Junction, and immediately put my brigade in motion for that place. On reaching the Junction, I learned that Col. R. F. Graham had arrived at that place from Petersburg at about 4.30 p. m. with the remaining companies of the Twenty-first and three companies of the Twenty-fifth South Caro- lina Regiments, and with this command of about 600 men that he had encountered a brigade or more of the enemy, with two piece Page 240 240 OPERATIONS IN SE. VA. AND N. C. [CHAP. XLVIII. of artillery, and driven them gallantly from the field. Their skir- mishers at dark were still on the skirt of the woods southeast of the Junction. The report of Col. R. F. Graham is forwarded herewith. I immediately occupied the railroad excavation just southwest of the Junction with my brigade, placing skirmishers in front, Colonel Grahams command occupying a position on my left and front. Dur- ing the night the remainder of the Twenty-fifth and Twenty-seventh South Carolina Regiments, with their bilgade commander (Briga- dier-General Hagood), arrived. Maj. Gen. D. H. Hill, of General Beauregards staff, reached the Junction in the morning, and by his skill, counsel, and active supervision throughout the period of these operations contributed in an eminent degree to the success attained. At daylight on the 7th instant it was ascertained that the enemy had entirely retired from our immediate front. Through scouts we learned that their forces were in the vicinity of Ware Bottom Church and at Cobbs farm. For the most reliable information I was in- debted to Roger A. Pryor, who was active, tireless, and daring in reconnaissances. At about 10 oclock it was resolved to advance to- ward the church, with a view to feel the strength and position of the enemy. General Hagood was ordered to move in front, with Johnsons brigade in support. The head of the column had not ad- vanced more than a mile when Gener~d Hill, who had gone to the front to make a personal examination, returned and reported the enemys cavalry advancing immediately upon us at about 300 yards distance from our column. General Hagood was directed to bring his leadiiig regiment into line and advance its skirmishers. Subse- quently another regiment was advanced and formed on a line with the first. These regiments were for nearly an hour engaged in a sharp skirmish with the enemy. The movements of the enemys in- fantry seeming to indicate a purpose to flank these regiments on their left, they were retired to our line of battle on the railroad. In the mean time the enemy had shown a coiisiderable force in two linesfour regiments of infantry and a battery of artilleryin front of our right, near the house of Mrs. Dunn. Skirmishers from Colonel Grahams regiment were advanced to attract the attention of this force, and a section of Hankins battery, supported by two regiments of Johnsons brigade, was advanced under cover of the woods on the right of Port Walthall railroad to fire on the enemys infantry. A few rounds from the artillery drove the infantry under cover ot adjacent grounds. The fire of the artillery appearing no longer effective, and the movements of the enemy indicating a pur- pose to make a general attack, I thought it best to preserve a com- pact line; consequently, our artillery and infantry were withdrawn to the line of the railroad. The enemy soon appeared in two lines on the open grounds and skirting the woods on the high ground east of the Junction and of Ashton Creek, fronting Hagoods bri- gade, stationed on my left. At the same time they also reappeared in their original force in the vicinity of Mrs. Dunns house, threat- ening Johnsons brigade on my right. Aided by General Hill, I placed two pieces of artillery on the left of Craigs house to open on the enemy in the vicinity of Mrs. Dunns, and four pieces behind the railroad or west of it, near the water-tank, to play upon the enemys infantry east of Ashton Creek. Subsequently one of these latter pieces was removed to a piece of high ground farther north, on the south side of the railroad, afford- ing a more direct fire on the enemy. Two other guns which cam Page 241 CHAP. xLvm.] SOUTH SIDE OF THE JAMES. 241 to the Junction were manned with uninstructed convalescents and men on furlough, picked up in Petersburg, who deserted their pieces before they fired a shot. These I caused to be manned by men from the Tennessee (Johnsons) brigade and placed on the hill on the turnpike west of the railroad. The forces in front of Johnsons brigade contented themselves with threatening our right and firing artillery at the batteries and infantry in vicinity of Craigs house. Those on the east of Ashton Creek opened about 2 p. m. with artil- lery and infantry fire, to which we replied very successfully, so that they for a time seemed about to withdraw, and the firing ceased. General Hagood was instructed to cover the turnpike with his left regiment. After some delay this was accomplished by the foresight and interposition of General Hill just in time to meet the second line of the enemy, which had been moved under cover of the woods by the right flank, and now appeared bearing down on and flanking Hagoods left. General Hagood now changed the front of his left regiment so as to meet the enemy on his left. In this movement this regiment was exposed to a heavy cross-fire. At this juncture occurred the sharpest and most critical part of the conflict. The two pieces of artillery stationed in the pike~ on the west of the rail- road were, at call of General Hago9d, sent to the left, and the second regiment from the left was drawn out to support the left regiment, the regiment on the right closing in to fill the interval. General Hagoods left now advanced, drove the enemy back with heavy loss, and regained the railroad to the left of his former position. The enemy again advanced on Hagoods front, his brigade being under cover of the railroad, and were driven back with heavy loss. Dur- ing both conflicts the artillery on the left of Craigs house played handsomely upon the enemys line, which had advanced on the east side of Ashton Creek and attacked Hagoods front. The pieces near- est Craigs house had several horses killed and one of the carriages damaged. The artillery sent to the left was badly served and gave but little assistance. Lieutenant-Colonel Eshleman brought up in the evening a battery of the Washington Artillery, which was sent to the support of Hagoods brigade, but it was then too late to afford any assistance. The infantry ceased firing, save a few sharpshooters, about 4 p. m. The artillery continued fire uiitil about 6 oclock, when the enemy retired from the field. The enemys loss is supposed to be about 1,000 men. Prisoners have estimated it much higher. The provost-marshal of Johnsons brigade reports 21 prisoners captured. I distinguished four brigades of Federals on the field. Their forces are reported to have consisted of five brigades, commanded by Brig. Gen. W. T. H. Brooks. Our aggregate was 2,668, of which 1,500 were of Hagoods brigade, and 1,168 of Johnsons brigade. The conflict was maintained on our side entirely by Hagoods brigade and the artillery. My right flank (Johnsons brigade) after making the demonstration as stated on the enemys left, had only to watch the threatening columns of some two brigades in its front. Seven men of that brigade were wounded, 1 mortally, while Hagoods brigade lost 177, viz, 22 killed, 142 wounded, and 113 missing. Brigadier-Gen- eral Hagood handled his men with marked ability, coolness, cour- age, and watchful care. His report, herewith inclosed, will furnish more particular details in regard to the meritorious services of offi- cers and men. The steady valor of his command was worthy of its 16 R I~VOL XXXVI, PT Page 242 242 OPERATIONS IN SE. VA. AND N. C. (CifAP. XLVIII. State and the great cause for which it is fighting. After dark another regiment and a battalion of Hagoods brigade arrived, giving us an aggregate of about 3,500. It was evident that the enemys force was much superior to our own, and no doubts were entertained in regard to their receiving new accessions. During the evening I received the following communications: HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF NORTH CAROLINA, Petersburg, Va4 May 7, 18645 p. m. General B. R. JOHNSON, Commanding, Port Waithall Jnnction: GENERAL: If you cannot hold your present position, you had better come back to Swift Creek. The enemy are advancing on this side of the river. Have sent you every man that has arrived. For safety I must stop the next detachment here, even should they come on, which is problematical. Very respectfully, G. E. PICKETT, Major-General. HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF NORTH CAROLINA, Petersburg, May 7, 18647 p. m. Brig. Gen. BUSHROD JOHNSON, Commanding, & c.: GENERAL: If you cannot hold your present position you must fall back to the line of the Swift Creek. Send one reginient to re-enforce Clingman at once. We are compelled to protect our right flank. Make your disposition at once. I will continue to send on whatever troops which may arrive, although I cannot learn at what time the next detachment may come on. Please make a report to me. Let me know exactly what you are doing. I am, general, very respectfully, your obedient servant, G. E. PICKETT, Major-General. HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF NORTH CAROLINA, Peterslmrg, Va., May 7, 1864. General B. R. JOHNSON, ~Ot~L~9, & ~ GENERAL: I have sent you two dispatches this evening and have received no re- ply. I have received no re-enforcements except what you have now with you. You will fall back, therefore, to Swift Creek, bringing off your artillery which has been disabled first. Place one regiment and a battery in position on the crossing of the road from Chesterfield Court-House to this point. Leave a line of pickets to withdraw at daylight. Intrenching tools will be sent to you at Swift Creek: I am, very respectfully, your obedient servant, G. E. PICKETT, Major-General. This was received by me about 10 p. m. on May 7, 1864. Between 10 and 11 p. m. the artillery was put in motion. At 12 p. in. the in- fantry moved, and by 3 a. in. on the morning of May 8 our forces had crossed to the south bank of Swift Creek. During the day and night of the 8th I sent out several parties to the Junction to collect property, arms, and accouterments. The field of battle was occu- pied by our troops until about 10 a. in. on Monday, the 9th instant, when the euemy advanced upon our position at Swift Creek. In this advance they passed to the north of the Junction. From reports of cavalry and from the observations of Major-General hill, who re- turned from the Junction about 10 a. in., the enemy must have come into the turnpike south of Timberry Creek. From subsequent in- formation it appears that a portion of their forces went as far north as Chester. During the 8th and the morning of the 9th our troops were en- gaged in constructing a good line of rifle-pits, with batteries, under the supervision of Colonel harris. hlagoods brigade was posted o Page 243 CRAP. XLVIII.] SOUTH SIDE OF THE JAMES. 243 the left, covering the turnpike bridge and extending well out on either side. A detachment from this brigade and a section of artil- lery occupied Branders Bridge, on our extreme left; McKethans, Fifty-first North Carolina Regiment, covered the railroad bridge, and Johnsons brigade was posted on the right, covering Level Ford and adjacent grounds. Some eighteen pieces of artillery, consisting of Hankins, Paynes, Owens. and Martins batteries, were distributed along our lines, mainly at the fords and bridges. From the Forty- fourth Tennessee Regiment, Johnsons brigade, 22 men and 3 ser- geants, under Lient. F. M. Kelso, were detached to man the heavy artillery in Fort Clifton, where Capt. S. T. Martin commanded. At 9 a. m. on May 9 a small boat appeared in the Appomattox below Fort Clifton, which was fired on and driven off. At about 11 a. m. five gnu-boats advanced and engaged the battery at Fort Clifton. The firing was continued from the fort until after 2p. in., when four gun-boats retired and the fifth one was fonud to be crippled. A party was organized to board the boat, but the enemy set fire to it, abandoned and burned it. For their services and gallant conduct at Fort Clifton in the fight with the gun-boats on May 9 the officers and men have received the special commendation of the general commanding the department. By 12 m. the enemy were in strong force on the north side of Swift Creek and slight skirmishing was commenced with artillery and in- fantry. About 11 a. m. I received a note from Major-General Pickett informing me that re-enforcements were on their way from Weldon, and advising me not to bring on a general engagement, if possible to avoid it. At 2 p. m. I received the following dispatch from Major-General Pickett: HEADQUARTERS, Brig. Gen. B. R. JOHNSON, Petersburg, May 9, 18641 p. m. Commanding, & c.: GENERAL: The major-general commanding directs that you move forward at once and see what the enemy are doing. Further instructions will be sent in course of half an hour. I inclose a copy of dispatch just received from General Bragg. I am, general, yours, & c., C. PJCKETT, Assistant Adjutant-General. I immediately ordered General Hagood to move forward by the turnpike and take the eminence beyond the creek, believing from the dispatch of General Bragg that it was my duty to press upon the enemy with nearly my whole force. I now dispatched to Major- General Pickett that I had received the order to advance and had given the order to commence the movements. The skirmishers of Hagoods brigade had not engaged the enemy when I received the following communication: HEADQUARTERS, Brig. Gen. B. H. JOHNSON, Petersburg, May 9, 1864. Commanding, & c.: GENERAL: The major-general commanding directs me to say to you that you had better hold the line of Swift Creek till re-enforcements arrive and we can then make the advance. Try and find out whether the present demonstration is a feint or a real movement. I am, general, with much respect, your obedient servant, C. PJCKETT, Assistant Adjutant-General Page 244 244 OPERATIONS IN SE. VA. AND N. C. [CHAP. XLVIII. My dispatch announcing to General Pickett that I had given orders to commence the movement was returned with the following indorse- ment: HEADQUARTERS, Petersburg, 1/Iay 9, 1864. General JOHNSON, Commanding, & e.: GENERAL: Since the order was given for you to advance General Pickett has sent another countermanding it and telling you to hold the line of Swift Creek, if the enemy, as reported, were advancing in force on you. ~. HCKETT, Assistant Adjutant-General. As a consequence of these communications, the movement ordered became a reconnaissance with apart of Hagoods brigade. The enemy was found in heavy force in vicinity of the turnpike, on the north side of Swift Creek. After a very sharp skirmish, General Hagood withdrew his forces from the north side of the creek, having lost in a brief period 9 officers and. 128 men killed, wounded, and missing. It was evident that the whole of the enemys forces were in our front. Communications were received during the night from Major-General Ransom and Brigadier-General Barton at Drewrys Bluff, inquiring for the enemy, and stating that there had been but little demonstra- tion in their front during the day. The enemys sharpshooters were now pressed forward, especially in the vicinity of the railroad bridge. They reached a fence in the open field, within some 500 or 600 yards of the Dunlap house, and very much annoyed our main line. With the first design of making a determined attack upon the enemy, the Fifty-first North Carolina Regiment had been replaced at this l)oint by a part of the Sixty-third Tennessee Regiment. Capt. J. W. Robertson, of the latter regiment, was now directed to take two com- panies and drive the enemys skirmishers back. This was hand- somely done by a charge. Somewhat later, in the darkness of the night, the enemys reserveabout a regimentmade a deinonstra- tion, fired a volley on our skirmishers, raised a shout, and made an effort to charge them, but Captain Robertsons command held its position until a late hour at night, when it was relieved by two com- panies of the Fifty-first North Carolina Regiment. A heavy line of skirmishers, under Lieutenant-Colonel Aiken, of the Sixty-third Tennessee, held Level Ford during the night of the 9th. The enemy, however, attempted to cross some men above the ford and brought up a piece of artillery to the stream, but they were promptly (Iriven back by a detachment under Captain Millard, of the Sixty-third Teiinessee Regiment. In the skirmishing at Swift Creek Johnsons brigade had 5 nien wounded, 1 niortally, making the total number of casualties at this point 142. The loss of the enemy was, perhaps, about an equal number. During the morning of the 10th parts of Wises, Ransoms, and Hokes brigades arrived. About 1.30 p. m. the prevailing quietude on the line induced me to order the artillery near the railroad bridge to open. It drew no response from the enemy, who had previously niade very free use of a battery of artillery just opposite. I then ordered forward our skirmishers and found the enemy had with- drawn without any manifest cause. Major-General Hoke arrived this evening, couiiseled no movement, and assumed command on the niorningof May 11 Page 245 Ca& p. XLV~.1 SOUTH SIDE OF THE JAMES. 245 I forward herewith Col. R. F. Grahams report of the affair at Port Waithall Junction on the evening of May 6; also Brigadier- General Hagoods report of the actions and casualties at Port Wal- thafl Junction on the 6th and 7th, and at Swift Creek on the 9th of May, 1864. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, B. R. JOHNSON, Capt. T. 0. CHESTNEY, Major-General. Assistant Adjutant- General. A DDENDA. Report of cusualties* of Johnsons Brigade at Waithall Junction and Swift Oreelc, May 7 and 9. Killed. Wounded. 0 0 0 ~Jp4 ri3 ~S ~ 00 ~ ~ .~ l~ ~ ~ At Waithall Junction: 44th and 25th Tennessee Regiments 17th and 23d Tennessee Regiments 1 1 63d Tennessee Regiment At Swift creek: 17th and 23d Tennessee Regiments 1 63d Tennessee Regiment Total 1 1 2 Respectfully submitted. JOHN S. FULTON, Golonel, Commanding Brigade. No. 96. Report of Col. J~ihn S. Fulton, Forty-fourth Tennessee Infantry, commanding Johnsons Brigade, of operations May 7. HEADQUARTERS JOHNSONS BRIGADE, Fort Clifton, May 8, 1864. CAPTAIN: I have the honor to submit the following report of the part taken by this brigade in the engagement at Port Waithall Junc- tion on the 7th instant: The morning of the 7th found us in hue of battle on the Richmond and Petersburg Railroad, and to the right of the Junction. About 10 oclock we received orders to move to the front. We had not gone far, however, before we were ordered to resume our former position. This being done, in about fifteen minutes we were ordered to move by the frank and on the left of the enemys line of battle, under cover of a thick pine woods. Leaving one regiment in reserve, we reached the point designated and formed line of battle perpendicular to that of the enemy, supporting a section of artillery in our front. Just at this time our battery opened on the enemy. The enemys battery replied and shelled our position fiercely, though with very little effect, wounding 3 men. Failing to induce the enemy to advance, as * Nominal list on file. 2 3 Page 246 246 OPERATIONS IN SE. VA. AND N. 0. [O~. XLVIIT. was anticipated, and finding that he was moving to our right, we retired to our first position on the line of the railroad, now become the right of our line of battle. Here~we remained during the rest of the day. The enemy did not advance on our position, consequently, with the exception of some skirmishing and cannonading, we were not otherwise molested. Our casualties are as follows: Wounded, 7 privates; missing, 1 private. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, JOHN S. FULTON, Colonel. Capt. R. E. FOOTE, Assistant Adjutant- General. No. 97. Report of Col. R. H. Keeble, Twenty-third Tennessee Infantry, commanding Seventeenth and Twenty-third Tennessee Infantry, of operations May 416. HDQRS. 17TH AND 23D TENNESSEE REGIMENTS, May 22, 1864. GENERAL: In compliance with circular orders from your head- quarters of this date, I herewith most respectfully submit the follow- ing report of the part taken by my regiment in the battle of Drewrys Bluff, May 16, 1864: Before, however, entering up6n a detailed account of this action it may not be amiss to take a cursory view of the movements of this regiment for some days previous. After an arduous and fatiguing campaign in East Tennessee during the winter and spring, under Lieutenant-General Longstreet, we were ordered from Abingdon, Va., to Richmond on May 2, which point we reached on or about May 5. Having remained in the city one night, we were ordered to Chaffins Bluff, to relieve a brigade which had been stationed there for some months past. To this point we proceeded, and, in com- fortable quarters, thought that here for awhile we would rest, re- cruit up; become more thoroughly organized for future operations. It was not thus destined, however. One brief hour was our stay at this apparently comfortable encampment, when we were ordered to proceed without delay to cross the river to Drewrys Bluff, the ene- my having been reported as advancing on the south~side of the river. We succeeded in getting a11 over by sunrise the next morning. Here we remained for a few hours, when we were ordered to Wal- thall Junction, where we remained in line of battle until the night following, being under fire and skirmishing with the enemy. Thence we marched to Petersburg. where, having formed our lines, we re- mained until ordered back to Drewrys Bluff. While here we were constantly skirmishing with the enemy during the day and throwing up intrenchments during the night. Finally we moved from Petersbnrg on the 11th instant in the direc- tion of Drewrys Bluff, and reached the outer line of fortifications on the 12th instant. I was immediately put in position on the right of the road, my left resting upon the Petersburg and Richmond turn- p ike and my right resting upon the left of the Sixty-third Tennessee Regiment. This position we occupied until ordered to evacuate the line and retire to the inner line of fortifications on the 14th instant Page 247 SOITTtL SIDE OF THE JAMES. CHAP. XLVIII.3 247 This position we occupied until the action of the 16th, my left rest- ing still upon the turnpike and my righi upon the left of the Sixty- third Tennessee. During the time we were occupying these two lines we were constantly under the shelling of the enemy and the fire of their sharpshooters. When the battle on theA6th commenced my orders from General Johnson were to move down the turnpike by the left flank until I reached the outer line of fortifications, when I would halt, front, and move forward in connection with General Ransoms division. Long before I reached the outer line of fortifications I discovered that the enemy were still occupying our works with a battery of seven pieces (Parrott guns), planted in the center of the turnpike a little beyond the fortifications. We, however, continued to move forward under a perfect shower of grape, canister, and minie-balls, which swept up the turnpike. Reaching the trenches, line was immediately formed confronting the enemy, and here commenced and raged for two hours or two and a half one of the most desperate actions in which I have ever been engaged. The enemy were in strong force under our trenches, and his battery above alluded to played upon us most furiously. They were vastly outnumbering me, with fixed bayonets, and nothing but the thickness of the wall separated us. They had also succeeded in throwing a force upon my right flank and rear, from which we received a most galling fire. Having thus in a meas- ure surrounded us, they frequently demanded our surrender, which, however, was met with defiant yells and volley after volley from my regiment. With their battery in our front, their infantry in over- whelming numbers in our front and upon my flank and rear, the case seemed desperate to the last degree; but by can sing the rear rank of my regiment to face about we thus met and fought them on all sides; succeeded in driving them off and holding our position; silenced and captured their battery of seven pieces (Parrott guns). One of these pieces was brought to the rear by a detail from my own regiment. Some other brigade or command passed over the ground where the rest of it was left, and, I understand, claims to have cap- tured it. I hope, however, our commanding officer will do us justice in this particular. The enemy, to impede our progress and advance upon them, had obstructed the road with telegraph wire, in order to trip up the men. This trick (emphatically a Yankee one) was, however, soon discov- ered and surmounted. While the fire was thickest and hottest some stragglers from another command, who had sought refuge in a ditch in our rear, raised a shirt in lieu of a white flag. This gave the enemy great encouragement, but on being discovered by the men of my regiment every one called out, Tear it down; tear it down! Lieutenant Waggoner, of my regiment, immediately rushed to the recreant and pulled it down, being wounded in the attempt. Lieu- tenant Waggoner, for this display of gallantry and daring, is en- titled to the highest consideration and commendation. For this, as well as other acts during the battle, he is entitled to most distin- guished notice. I carried into action 319 men; had 14 killed and 54 wounded, among the number Lieutenant-Colonel Floyd (who was mortally wounded, has since died), Captain Cortner, and Lieutenant Patrick. It is difficult to draw any distinction where all acted with so much gallantry. Lieutenant-Colonel Floyd, Maj. J. G. Lowe, Captain Cortuer, Captain Terry, and Lieutenant Waggoner all acted wit Page 248 248 OP1~RATIO~S IN SE. VA. AND N. C. [Ci~p. XLVIII. most distinguished gallantry, and are all entitled to marks of distinc- tion for their skill and ability. Lieutenant-Colonel Floyd was mortally wounded in the faithful discharge of his duty. Among the privates who deserve special mention is Archer Neill, a young man of great worth and fine military education. He fell mortally wounded among the foremost in the charge upon the breast-works. There are many others who deserve credit for the manner in which they acted, but whose names are unknown. I trust that in due time justice will be done them all. Soon after the action General Ransoms division came up. when the brigadeall that was left of itreformed and moved to the left of the turnpike. While there I was put temporarily in command of the brigade, and the command of the regiment devolved upon Maj. J. G. Lowe. There we remained until we were moved by the right flank and ordered to close up on General Clingman. The battle, however, was then over. Most respectfully submitted. R. H. KEEBLE, Colonel, Commanding Regiment. General B. R. JOHNSON. No. 98. Report of Capt. William N. James, commanding Twenty-fifth and Forty-fourth Tennessee Infantry, of operations May 16. HDQRS. 44TH AND 25TH TENNESSEE REGIMENTS, lJIiay 22, 1864. I have the honor to make a report of the part taken by the Forty- fourth and Twenty-fifth Tennessee Regiments in the engagement of May 16 instant, near Drewrys Bluff. About 3 a. m. skirmishers were sent out from this regiment, com- posed of First, Fourth, and a detachment of 10 men from second company. A brisk fire was opened upon the enemys skirmishers, who were driven back to their intrenchments. In this skirmish we sustained a loss of 5 men wounded from first company and 1 man missing from fourth company. About 4 a. m. the regiment moved with the brigade by the left flank from our second line of intrench- ments along the Richmond and Petersburg dirt road, where we came under fire of the enemys batteries, and on reaching the cabins recently used as brigade (Johnsons) headquarters we formed line of battle by the movement of forward into line in double-quick time, and moved against the enemy, who werenow occupying our first line of breast-works, and who were delivering upon us an extremely heavy and fatal fire of both musketry and artillery. We were about 100 yards from the breast-works, or less, when Lient. Col. J. L. McEwen received a severe wound in the right leg, disabling him from further command. He ordered Major Mc- Carver to hold the position at the risk of the loss of every man. Major McCarver took command and pressed forward, and we en- gaged the enemy. We were now near our first line of breast-works, then occupied by the enemy in position on the east side. The left of the regiment got to the breast-works first, marching a little ob- liquely. The enemy met the left wing of the regiment with a well- directed fire of musketry and demanded a surrender Page 249 Cii~p. XLVIIIJ SOUTH SIDE OF THE JAMES. 249 Capt. S. J. Johnson and his company (Twenty-fifth Tennessee) were here taken prisoners, with several other officers and men ; in all, 1 captain, 4 lieutenants, and 45 men. Major McCarver had received a mortal wonnd and died on the field. Both of onr field officers having been placed hors de combat, some confnsion ensued. Being the senior captain of the regiment, its command now de- volved upon me. II fonnd I had no support on my right. I rallied my regiment under heavy fire of the enemy and took shelter behind an arm of the breast-works which adjoined the main works, but it had no communication with the inner line, thus: * 703/a4. ~ * I again ordered my men to fire upon the enemy. I here saw the enemy pressing forward his skirmishers on my extreme right, at right angles with my position, in an open space from the intrench- inent which they held, and which extended down on my right about 300 yards distant, and meeting the line of intrencements in my front, thus: I immediately sent a detachment of 20 men, under Lient. J. A. Hatch, to engage them. A sharp skirmish ensued, and Lieutenant Hatch was mortally wounded, and fell dead. My skirmishers drove those of the enemy back, which was a very heavy line. The enemy abandoned our first line of intrenchments under a hot fire along our whole line. The brigade was then formed in line of battle, by the brigadier commanding, on the Richmond and Petersburg dirt road, moved forward, and occupied the first line of intrenchments, from which the enemy had been driven, where we remained until late that evening, and then moved with Cliugmans brigade to support Captain Martins battery of artillery, which engaged the enemy the followin a For list of casualties I refer you to annexed report, and remain, your obedient servant, W. N. JAMES, Captain, Gomdg. 44th and 25th Tennessee Regts. Captain FOOTE, Assistant Adjutant- General. Killed, wounded. Prisoners. Aggregate. Officers 2 4 5 11 Men 7 32 45 Total 9 36 50 9 Page 250 ~5O OPERATIONS IN SI~. VA. ANIi~ If. C. No. 99. Report of Gol. Abraham Fuilcerson, Sixty-third Tennessee Infantry, of operations May 9. HDQRS. SIXTY-THIRD TENNESSEE INFANTRY, Before Bermuda Hundred, June 8, 1864. CAPTAIN: I have the honor to submit the following report of the part taken in the affair at Swift Creek, May 9, 1864, by the Sixty- third Regiment: When the brigade occupied the line behind Swift Creek my regi- ment was poste~l at Level Ford, 1~ miles below the Dunlap house, from which point Captain Millard, Company E, was deployed as skirmishers to the right and leftconnecting with the Seventeenth and Twenty-third Tennessee on the left, and the Forty-fourth and Twenty-fifth on the rightat a point half a mile from Fort Clifton, holding a line near 2-~ miles in length. This was on May 8. Early on the morning of the 9th the enemy appeared on the bluffs on the opposite side of the creek, when sharp skirmishin ~ com- menced and was kept up from the ford or center to the left through- out the day and until a late hour at night. About 12 oclock on the 9th I was ordered to leave a heavy line of skirmishers along the line of the creek, and occupy the rifle-works in front of Dunlaps house with the reserve. The skirmish line was strengthened by the ad- dition of Companies B, H, and I, and Lieutenant-Colonel Aiken placed in charge of the line. This part of the line was sucessfully held until relieved on the morning of the 10th, though during the night the enemy effected a crossing at the angle opposite the Dunlap house, and succeeded in getting a piece of artillery to the waters edge. This force was driven back promptly with a detachment from the right of the line, under Capt. C. R. Millard. Late iu the evening of the 9th the enemys line of skirmishers was advanced to a fence within 500 or 600 yards of Dunlaps house. From this position their sharpshooters were enabled to annoy our line considerably. About dusk General Johnson, through Captain Blakemore, requested me to drive the line back. Companies A and K, under Capt. J. W. Robertson, were detached and directed to cross the creek near the left of the enemys line and to attack it in flank. It was subse- quently found impracticable to attack in flank. The companies were then deployed in front, and a charge ordered and executed satisfactorily. The line fell back in confusion, with a loss of 2. killed. The enemys reserve, supposed to be a brigade, fired a volley luto our hue and made an effort to charge it, but to no pur- pose. Captain Robertson held the line until a late hour at night, when he was relieved by two companies from a North Carolina regi- ment. James Carroll, Company A, was slightly wounded in the charge on the night of the 9th. Several others were slightly injured, but did not leave the field and were not reported as wounded. Captain Robertson was among the number. After being relieved by a North Carolina regiment, the reserve of my regiment marched back to Level Ford, where it remained until relieved on the morning of the 10th instant. Very respectfully, A. FUT~KERSON, Colonel. Capt. R. E. FOOTE, Asst. Adjt. Gen Page 251 OHAP. XLVIIII SoUIH SIDE OF ~Ht JAMIE~S. 251 No. 100. Reports of Brig. Gen. Johnson Ha good, C. S. Army, commanding brigade, of operatwns May 616. HDQRS. HAGOODS (SOUTH CAROLINA) BRIGADE, Near Drewrys Bluff, Va., h/hay 13, 1864. CAPTAIN: I have the honor to report the operations of my brigade in front of Petersburg: On the 6th instant the Twenty-first Regiment and three com- panies of the Twenty-fifth, under Major Glover, the whole under Colonel Graham, of the Twenty-first, arrived at Port Waithall Junc- tion, upon which the enemy were then advancing, and in a very short time were eiigaged. Colonel Graham formed his line east of the railroad, at a distance of some 300 yards and parallel to it. His position was well choseii in a sunken road, with his left resting upon a ravine and his right upon a wood. He succeeded in repulsing a considerably larger force than his own, accompanied by two pieces of artillery. From information received from prisoners the enemy were supposed to have been Heckmans brigade. Our troops, both officers and men, must have behaved with distinguished gallantry, and I beg leave respectfully to refer for particulars to the report of Colonel Graham, inclosed. At dark on that night I arrived at Petersburg, with the balance of the Twenty-fifth Regiment, and marched immediately from the cars to re-enforce Colonel Graham. The Twenty-seventh arrived a little later and followed, the whole arriving at Port Walthall Junction be- fore day. I found Brigadier-General Johnson also at that point with some 800 muskets. He informed me that hearing the firing of Gra- hams action he had marched from the direction of Drewrys Bluff to re-enforce him, arriving after the repulse of the enemy. The gen- eral ranking me, I reported to him for orders. When day broke it was discovered that the enemy had in the night retired from our front. I was ordered to take my three regiments and advance to feel for him. At 10 a. m. I moved and found his line of pickets about i~ miles on our left front. The morning was spent in maneu- vering and skirmishing, and finally the pressing of the enemy indi- cating an advance, I fell back, under orders, to the railroad, my left resting on the crossing of the turnpike and railroad, General John- sons men on my right upon the railroad, and the Twenty-first Regi- ment in reserve in rear of my center and upoii the turnpike. The enemy appeared at 2 p. m. in two lines of battle with skirmishers well thrown out and warmly engaged us. His line was oblique to mine and tending to overlap my left. After some half hours fight- ing his second line was moved under cover of an intervening wood by right and appeared within musket-range, approaching square upon my left, the left of this force being upon the prolongation of my left. The Twenty-first Regiment had been ordered up into line upon my left in the beginning of the fight, and I was now compelled under a cross-fire from two brigades to change my front. This neces- sitated great exposure of officers in effecting, but was happily done, the lives of some of the best and bravest of my command, of all grades, paying for its accomplishment. Soon after my new line was taken I ordered an advance, and the flanking brigade was driven back, not again reappea~ngin that direc- tion. My men now regained the railroad, their right,h owever, rest Page 252 252 OPERATIONS IN SE. VA. AND N. C. [CHAP. XLVIII. ing where their left had been in the morning. The enemy now massed heavily in my front and again advanced, bnt my men, sheltered by the railroad embankment, drove them back with but little loss t~ ourselves and very heavy to them. Between 4 and 5 oclock the en- gagement ceased, except the firing of sharpshooters on either side, and before dark the enemy withdrew from the field. I had an aggre- gate of 1,500 men engaged; the enemy at least two brigades. Our loss was 177, the enemys estimated 1,000. and newspaper correspond- ents from the army of the enemy state that General Brooks, with five brigades and one battery of artillery, was in onr front that day. In the action I was assisted at different times by two pieces of artillery sent to me at my request from the right, but they did me but little good, getting twice out of ammunition after very few discharges and going half a mile to the rear to replenish. In the close of the actmon they were not on the field. The Eleventh Regiment amid Seventh Battalion arrived upon the battle-field after night-fall, hav- ing been delayed upon the cars in coming from South Carolina. At 12 oclook that night our whole force at the Junction was withdrawn by General Johnson to the line of Swift Creek. On the 9th I was ordered to take a part of my brigade and make a reconnaissance in front of this line. I took the Twenty-first, the Eleventh, and a detachment of the Twenty-fifth, under Captain Car- son. The object was accomplished, but from the broken and wooded nature of the groumid I became more heavily engaged thami I desired with the heavy force in my front, and my loss was severe. I append a statement of casualties in those actions. Out of 7 field officers taken into the action of the 7th, 4 were killed or woumided. The brave Lieutenant-Colonel Dargan, of the Twenty- first, fell at the head of his men in the crisis of the fight on that day. Colonel Graham was there wounded in two places while cheering on his men. Lieutenant-Colonel_Pressley fell at the same place with a dangerous wound and refused assistance, ordering forward into line the men who came to take him off the field. Lieutenant-Colonel Blake, of the Twenty-seventh, was slightly wounded. Captain Sellers, of the Twenty-fifth, was wounded and returned to the fight after his wound was dressed. My staffCaptain Molony, Lieutenant Martin, Lieutenant Mazyck, and Captain Stoneywere greatly exposed in the discharge of their duties and behaved with their usual gallamitry. Captain Stoney was shot through the body, but still survives. Captain Carlos Tracy, of South Carolina, who was acting as volunteer aide upon my staff, be- haved with much efficiency and gallantry. Colonel Gaillard, Colonel Pressley, amid Colonel Graham, com- manding regiments, behaved with distimiguished gc llantry, and after the fall of the two latter, Major Glover and Lieutenant-Colonel Dar- gan did all that could be done in supplying theii places. After Colonel Dargan was killed Captain Wilds efficiently commanded his regiment till the close of the day. The following men have been mentioned for meritorious conduct by their regimental commanders: First Sergt. Pickens Butler Watts, Company F; Sergt. J. P. Gibbons and Corpl. J. Bosier, same com- pany; Sergt. J. B. Abney, Company E, and Private Aemilius Irving, Company A, of Twenty-seventh Regiment, and Lieutenants Moffett and Duc, Sergt. Willie V. Izlar, and Private Ira T. Shoemaker, of the Twenty-fifth. No report of the kind was received from the Twenty-first, in consequence of the fall of the field officers and th Page 253 CHAP. XLVIII.] SOUTH SIDE OF THE JAMES. 253 succession of Captain Wilds to its command late in the action. There were, however, many instances of devotion in its ranks, and the bearing and service of Lieutenant Chappell conspicuously at- tracted the attention of the brigade commander. Private Vincent Bellinger, a cripple from wounds ~received at Se- cessionville, and on light duty with the commissary, quit the train when he heard the action was going against us and came upon the field. Picking up the rifle of a fallen man he joined a company and fought well during the remainder of the day. Respectfully, JOHNSON HAGOOD, Brigadier-General. Captain FOOTE. Assistant Adjutant- General. Return of casualties in Hagoods (South Carolina) Brigade May 6 to 9, 1864. Killed. Wounded. Missing. a 73 . Command. ~ .~ ~ 0 ~ H 0 ~ H 0 Z H ~ May 6 21st South carolina 1 24 25 25th 5outh carolina ... 5 5 Total 1 29 30 May 7: 21st South carolina 25th South carolina 27th South carolina Total May 9: 11th South carolina 21st South carolina 25th South carolina 27th South carolina 7th South carolina Battalion Total 7 78 85 9 34 4 47 0 30 9 45 22 142 13 177 I lii 14 1 38 39 2 10 12 65 .t.... 5 5 13 13 5 5 23 2911 326 29 77 47 1 1 1 1 1 1 3 28 31 4 78 82 2 22 24 137 Grand total 34 253 37 344 HDQRS. HAGOODs BRIG., SOUTH CAROLINA VOLS., May 22, 1864. CAPTAIN: I am directed to submit a report of the part taken by my brigade in the battle of Drewrys Bluff of the 16th instant: My command occupied the left of our second or intermediate line, embracing Fort Stevens, and with its right on the turnpike. The enemy occupied our exterior line of breast-works, which had been previously abandoned, supported by a battery of five pieces, where the turnpike crosses these works, with skirmishers well thrown out toward us. They had also constructed a second line of works in rear of this at some 200 yards distance, and had entangled the abatis between the two lines with wire. Shortly after General Ransoms division had engaged the enemy on my left, and while his advance was still parallel to my line, I was ordered to advance and drive the enemy from our outerline of works. This was happily accoinplisheQ undcr coycx of th~ early daylight Page 254 254 OPERATIONS IN SE. VA. AND N. C. [cRAP. XLVIII. without serious loss, the brigade capturing the battery of five pieces before referred to and several prisoners. My men now occupied this outer line, a desultory exchange of shots going on between it and the enemys second line of works. Three companies of the Twenty- fifth Reginient, .on my extreme right, were also at this time thrown back perpendicular to my front, to assist by a flank fire Johnsons brigade, which was driving the enemy from the portion of the outer line on my right. General Ransoms division had now, in accordance with the plan of battle, advanced some 800 yards in front of my left and was pivot- iiig upon its right, to sweep the enemy by a flank attack from the woods and works in front of our center. At this time I was ordered by the division commander to change front forward to the right and form line of battle parallel to the turnpike. In accomplishing this, my left drove the enemy from that portion of their second line of works, which it struck, and the whole movement was much impeded by the abatis and wire entanglement referred to. I now held the turnpike with, my line at right angles to the general line of battle, General Ransoms division advancing in echelon full 800 yards upon and in rear of my left; the enemy firing obliquely upon my rear from the woods between General Ransom and myself, and I was immediately attacked by a heavy force in my front. The position was obstinately held, in the hope that the advance of the div ~sion on my left and the brigade on my right would relieve me. Seeing, ho~vever, that the brigade was suffering severely, and the regiment on the left having, under orders of its colonel (properly given under the circumstances), begun to retire from the heavy pressure of the enemy upon its flank, I directed the resumption of our former posi- tion, behind our outer line of works. The enemy almost immedi- ately retreated from my immediate front. Subsequently my brigade was put in position to protect the right flank of the division froni an apprehended attack, which did not occur, and Coloiiel Gaillards regiment (Twenty-seventh) was de- tached to assist General Ransoms farther aIvance down the general line of battle. The brigade generally behaved with a steadiness and gallantry that was extremely gratifying. Colonel Gantt, Colonel Gaillard, Lieutenant-Colonel Nelson, Major Glover, and Captain Wilds, com- manding regiments, discharged their duty with marked ability. Major Rion, of the Seventh South Caroliiia Battalion, and Captain Brooks, of the same, behaved with conspicuous gallantry, continuing with their commands, the former throughout the day, and the latter until I ordered him to the rear after lie had received three severe wounds. The severity of the fire of the enemy is illustrated by the fact that fifty-seven bullet marks were found upon the flag of the Seventh Battalion South Carolina Volunteers, after the fight, and in one of its companies there were 65 casualties, of which 19 were killed outright. The general list of casualties appended will show that the losses of this battalion were scarcely exceptional. My staffCaptain Molony and Lieutenants Mazyck and Martin behaved with great gallantry and marked efficiency. They were all dismounted by the enemys fire during the fight, Captain Molony having a second horse, which he obtained during the day, killed. I also desire to mention for meritorious conduct, coming under my immediate observation, the name of Private J. K. Williams, of the Twenty-seventh. The casualties of the brigade were 433. Its fiel Page 255 CHAP. XLVIII.] SOUTH SIDE OF THE JAMES. 255 return of the preceding day was 2,235. I append a list of names mentioned for gallantry by regimental commanders, many of which came also under my o1)servation. A number of prisoners were captured by the brigade, but as they were hurried immediately to the rear, I can only estimate the number loosely at 300, including several officers. The battery captured con- sisted of three Napoleons and two 20-pounder Parrotts, fully equipped, and was turned over to Colonel Waddy, with a request that it be assigned to Captain Owen, of the Washington Artillery, whose fire assisted us materially in its caFture. I am, captain, respectfu y, JOHNSON HAGOOD, Brigadier- General, Commanding. Captain ADAMS, Assistant A c~ju.tant- General. Officers and men mentioned for gallant conduct by regimental com- manders. In Twenty-seventh Regiment South Carolina Volunteers: Lieu- tenant Gelling, Company C, acting adjutant; Color Bearer Tupper; Private H. P. Foster, Company D, of color guard; First Sergt. Pickens B. Watts, Company F. In Seventh Battalion South Carolina Volunteers: Sergt. J. H. Outz, Company H, color-bearer, killed. In Eleventh Regiment South Carolina Volunteers: Lieut. H. W. G. Bowman, Company B; Color-Sergeant Hickman, Privates J. Jones, A. P. Bulger, and G. W. Hicks, Company K; A. Mixson, Company F. In Twenty-fifth South Carolina Volunteers: Privates W. A. Dot- terer, Company A, and Wise, Company F; Sergt. Benjamin P. Izlar, Private Ira T. Shoemaker, Company G; Sergt. H. J. Greer, Corn- pany B. No. 101. Report of Col. Robert F. Graham, Twenty-first South Carolina In fantry, of operations May 6. HDQRS. TWENTY-FIRST SOUTH CAROLINA VoLs., Port IValthall Junction, May 7, 1864. CAPTAIN: I have the honor to report that I arrived at Petersburg on yesterday, the 6th instant, with three companies of the Twenty-first South Carolina Volunteers and three companies of the Twenty-fifth South Carolina Volunteers, numnbering about 300 men; that I was imniediately ordered with this force to Port Walthall Junction by Major-General Pickett, with immstructions to defend the railroad at that poimit. I arrived at the Jumiction at about 4.45 p. in., and there found 300 men of the Twenty-first South Carolina Volunteers, under the command of Lieutenant-Colonel Dargan, who had arrived there from Drewrys Bluff about one hour previous. I discovered soomi after arriving that the enemy were imi heavy force in front. I imme- diately chose my position and formed my line of battle some 300 yards east of the railroad. I had hardly formed my line when I was attacked by a force estimated to be at least two brigades, with sev- eral pieces of artillery. They were driven back in confusion. They again formed for an attack and attempted to turn my left flank Page 256 256 OPERATIONS IN SE. VA. AND N. C. [CHAP. XLVIII. Perceiving this I sent all my force that could be spared to this point. They were met with such a deadly fire that they retreated in confu- sion from the field, leaving some of their dead and wounded on the field. I cannot fail to mention the gallant conduct of both officers and men. The right of the line was commanded by Lieutenant-Colonel Dar- gan and the left by Major Glover, Twenty-fifth South Carolina Vol- unteers. I lost in this action 35 men2 killed and 28 wounded of the Twenty-first South Carolina Volunteers and 5 wounded of the Twenty-fifth South Carolina Volunteers. Very respectfully, your obedient servant. R. F. GRAHAM, Golonel, C~omdg. Twenty-first South carolina Volunteers. Capt. P. K. MOLONY, Assistant Adjutant-General. No. 102. Report of Maj. Gen. William~ H. C. Whiting, C. S. Army, command ing division, of operations May 1617. HEADQUARTERS, Petersburg, May 19, 1864. GENERAL: I respectfully forward the following report of the oper- ations of troops under my command on 16th and 17th: At 111 a. m. on 15th I received in cipher the following order, dated Drewrys Bluff, May 15, 1864, 12.15 a. m. : * GENERAL: I shall attack enemy in my front to-morrow at daylight by river road, to cut him off from his Bermuda base. You will take up your position to-night on Swift Creek, with Wises. Martins, Dearings brigades and two regiments of Col- quitts. with about twenty pieces under Colonel Jones. At daybreak you will march to Port Walthall Junction, and when you hear an engagement in your front you will advance boldly and rapidly by shortest road in direction of heaviest firing to attack enemy in rear or flank. You will protect your advance and flanks with Dear- ings cavalry, taking necessary precautions to distinguish friends from foes.t This revokes all former orders for movements. Respectfully, your obedient servant, G. T. BEAUREGARD, General, Commanding. I at once caused Wises brigade, then on city lines, to move to Swift Creek. As but one regiment of Colqnitts was present it was brigaded with General Martin. General Dearings brigade of cav- alry, which had gone in pursuit of the enemy under Kautz, was re- called. Not having infantry enough for twenty pieces, and the horses of some of the batteries not being in very good condition, I left the most for the protection of the city and Swift Creek, aiid ordered Colonel Jones with ten guns for the expedition. Having made all the arrangements in my power for the protection of the city and the various lines of railroad threatened on all sides by the enemy, I reached Swift Creek by daylight and at once commeiiced the movement. General Wise was ordered to lead, the artillery in his rear, and General Martin following. The enemys outpost pick- ets were met within half a mile of the bridge on the turnpike road, and General Wise put out his skirmishers to clear the way. On reaching the first right-hand road Geiieral Martin was ordered with two regiments to move parallel to the column on the railroad, and *10.45 a. in. See Beauregards report, p. 200. ~ See dispatch as quoted by General Wauregard, p. 200 Page 257 CHAP. XLVIII.] SOUTH SIDE OF THE JAMES. 257 this route passing by Mrs. Dunns house to the enemys position within a short distance, General Dearing was instructed to cover our right with Griffins cavalry and the left with Taliaferros regi- ment, and then with his main body to effect a junction by the left with the general commanding. The column moved forward, skir- mishing at the head all the way from Timberry Creek until the vi- cinity of the Junction was reached, where we were met by artillery and a stubborn resistance. Two pieces of artillery from Read s battalion were brought up and thrown to the right near Craigs house. The enemy commanding both the Junction and the turnpike, two were pushed along the turnpike and four placed by Colonel Jones well to the left to bear on the enemys position. Martins brigade was directed to take the railroad to~the right, and Wise to do the same in front. In a short time the troops drove the enemy across Bake-House Creek, and line of battle was formed at Walthall Junction in order described. When thus formed near 11 oclock I had reached the point desig- nated in my orders, whence I was to march as soon as I heard the sound of an engagement in my front. Nothing had been heard to indicate any such occurrence. No information of any sort reached me from Drewrys Bluff. Ignorant of the movements of the gen- eral and of the enemy, I was wholly unacquainted with the locality. Could I have been aware, or have divined what has been subse- quently learned, the information contained in the generals dis- patches of 9.15 and of 4.15, I could have spared my troops the harassing skirmishes which ensued, and resting until afternoon could have taken a good part in last movement, but unfortunately I knew nothiug. Having sent a dispatch to inform you of my position, I ordered Generals Wise and Martin to clear the way from Bake-House Creek, which they were holding in my front. Martin, on the right, ai~d Wise, on the left, moved up in the direction of the supposed line of the enemy, they slowly retiring until we occupied the ground near what is called the burnt house and the fields beyond. I had directed at the same time the cavalry under Colonel Taliaferro to go up the turnpike road and the right hand fork to see if he could find out anything. Here shortly an unfortunate occurrence took place, which much delayed me and increased my subsequent embarrass- ment. Being on the right of the line I was surprised to see the whole of General Wises double line of skirmishes fallii~ back at once, their right on the passes of Bake-House Creek and their left on the turnpike, the cavalry at the same time rapidly coming back down the turnpike. The report was rapidly spread that the enemy in heavy force was moving down the turnpike on our left and rear. I learned since that some one, I know not who, ordered the lines back, for I am satisfied these troops would never move back of their own accord. Considerable confusion was created, much increased by a severe and drenching rain which fell at the time. Martins brigade remained in position, but his skirmishers were recalled. It was some time before the line could be reformed, and in the mean time the enemy, who were evidently in observation, advanced to near Bake-House Creek. He was forced to withdraw by artillery, and the line was again made. By this time the afternoon was far advanced, and I was still with- out any tidings from the main battle, of which nothing could be 1~eard. Reports commenced coming in which greatly embarrassed 17 R R~-VOL XXXVI, PT I Page 258 258 OPERATIONS IN SE. VA. AND N. C. [CHAP. XLV~. me. Colonel Griffin, on my right, reported indication of a diversion by the enemy on the opposite side. At Red Bluff information was received of the advance of a large force toward the city from the superintendent of the Petersburg and Weldon Railroad, and also a dispatch from General Colston forwarding similar information, while shortly after a message reached me from the cavalry on my left that the enemy were moving in that direction with infantry and artillery. While preparations and new dispositions of Wises troops were being made for this, General Hill went over to the left to ascertain. It is possible this was a movement caused by General Dearings success- ful attack in that direction, but of that, at the time, I was ignorant. It was evident that the enemy, resting in his works, was in observa- tion on my right flank as I advanced, falling back to his lines as I moved on the turnpike, passing to the right and rear. A reconnais- sance by General Pryor informed me that the line of what was evi- deritly a moving force extended from the right-hand road at con- siderable distance from the Junction toward their fortifications. I felt myself in much perplexity called upon to decide whether I should, in spite of all reports, cut loose from Petersburg and move forward in absolute ignorance of even the fact that the general had made his proposed movenient~s and the position of the main body of the enemy, or whether, the day being far spent, I should not take up a position from whence, when I learned the movement of the gemieral, I could move early enough to aid the next day, or, if needed, be in place to defend Petersburg. At any rate, the Junction was no place to stay at. I ordered the troops of General Wise to move to the rear, to be followed by General Martimi, intending at night to bivouac at Swift Creek, where the men had left their knapsacks amid where their rations would be. I then received the dispatch dated Fort Stevens, informing me for the first time of the movement of the early morning. General Dear- ing himself met me. (See his report. *) He had most gallantly per- formed his work, capturing 220 prisoners on his route, communmcatmng with the general, and returning. He made me acquainted as far as he knew with the condition of affairs up to 1 oclock, and I halted my troops. It was then too late for me to do anything, as long before I could reach either the right of our people or the retreat of the eneniy darkness set in. At 7.15 p. m. I received time generals dispatch of 4.15 p. in., to which I replied, Too late for action on my part. The troops were then dim~cted to their bivouac on the creek. My personal presence was absolutely required in Petersbur~g, and not having to clear the road, I hoped to be able to join the general readily on the 17th. The conduct of the troops, officers and men, was most praise- worthy. Generals Wise and Martin, Colonel Jones, and Major Read were prompt amid skillful in the disposition of their commands. Whatever was accomplished was due to the advice and ability of General Hill on the field, and very active, but not in command. General Dearing particularly distimiguished himself by a brilliant attack upon the enemy at Chester. At 3 a. m. on the 17th (still without rest) I received yonr dispatch directing a junction and a movement at daylight, and proceeded at once to the troops. They moved out, after some consultation with the generals, under the command of General D. H. Hill, I having relinquished it to him imi consequence of the dissatisfaction expressed *Not found Page 259 CHAP. XLVIII.] SOUTH SIDE OF TILE JAMES. 259 by Generals Wise and Martin with my movements and orders of the preceding day, deeming that harmony of action was to be preferred at that time to any personal consideration, and feeling at the time as, indeed, I had felt for twenty-fonr honrsphysically unfit for action. The junction was effected between t~ and 10, the enemy having retired to his fortifications in the night. I give here the statement of the movements as they recur to me. I had no staff officers at all to keep the record of events or of time; no appliances reqnired by a general in the field; no one to aid me in the direction of movements, except the volnnteer services of Colonel Pani, for whose aid I am very gratefnl. My single aide-de-camp, Captain Strong, I was obliged to post in the rear to receive and for- ward the dispatches continually arriving from Petersbnrg. The above is simply a statement of the movements of the troops, with little or no explanation. It contains but a small part of the circum- stances materially affecting my action. I think I could and would have effected more had I not considered myself bound by my orders to control my movements by my knowledge of an engagement in my front. In the absence of any information until too late of even that of firing, I did not feel justified in pushing with a small force in an unknown country between an enemy represented so strong and his fortifications unless I could feel certain he was actually engaged with our main body. Aware, however, that while much was ex- pected of me, and in this case I have unfortunately accomplished but little, I desire to submit in addition to the report the following statement, not in excuse, but in explanation, if it should be thought that I had erred: Called suddenly while in bad health from Wilmington by a tele- gra~)hic dispatch, simply desiring me to confer with the general, I came at once, attended by a single aide, and totally unprepared with anything for service out of my command. I was placed in charge not only of Petersburg, a threatened city, but the whole Depart- ment of North Carolina and Southern Virginia. This was at 10 oclock on the 13th, the day of my arrival. That night and the 14th and 15th the railroad communications were cut on every side. The city was menaced from different points. It was uncertain whether the enemy, having secured his base, would make Drewrys Bluff or this city his objective point. Either was vital to Richmond. The number of troops was inadequate to tim defense of widely extended lines, covering one of the most important and yet one of the weakest points in the country. The barrier on the north of the city was almost nothing. The confusion was indescribable. The late com- manding general was very ill; the subordinate district commander but just arrived, like myself, on the 14th and 15th; the orders of pressing nature from Richmond and my commanding general were contradictory and embarrassing, as may be seen by comparison; at the time most needed communication was very hazardous and con- ducted in tedious cipher; add that I was entirely ignorant of locali- ties as not to know my way through the streets. From what I could see and learn of the position, Petersburg was at the mercy of the enemy. Under these circumstances, harassed with department business, without having taken off my clothes from the time of my arrival, or having been able to secure an hours rest, I left my office before day on the morning of the 16th to conduct an expedition into a district entirely unknown to me or my troops, without a staff, without top Page 260 260 OPERATIONS IN SE. VA. AND N. C. [CRAP. XLVIII. graphical engineers, without a reconnaissance, with no knowledge of the enemys position, with a hurried and imperfect organization, not to defend a known and threatened point, but to attack an enemy of unknown strength in his own position, and upon contingencies which might or might not obtain. I do not think I should be held responsible for the escape of the enemy, for even with more infor- mation and under different orders I do not see how my force could have accomplished that. I can see now after the event how I might have done much more toward the defeat of the enemy. I add, only in explanation of action unlooked for on my part, and of which my career gives no warrant, that the painful condition of my system previously ill and at the time disordered by absolute want of sleep for a long time, and personal labor due to want of officerswould, no doubt, have incapacitated me from acting with correct judgment and decision in a less difficult case. This condition was much aggra- vated by my exertions during the day, my personal attention to all parts of the field, the peculiar terms of my orders, the absence of informatidn, and especially by constant and harassing reports from Petersburg and from my flanks. I say this not to excuse, but to account both for what I have done and not done. I must also add that conscious of this disordered condition of my whole system, body and mind, I could not and do not blame Gen- erals Wise and Martin for, their expressions on the morning of the 17th, and I felt it my duty to relinquish the command to General Hill for the public good, knowing him to be thoroughly competent, as well as my superior. As statelnents of this kind in an official report should not be mere assertions, I beg you will, if you think necessary, have an inquiry made as to what I have said in explana- tion. I can only say that, viewed in any way, from your first tele- graphic dispatch of the 11th instant until now, I have been and am most unfortunate. * [W. H. C. WHITING.] [General G. T. BEAUREGARD.] ADDEND A. NEAR PETERSBURG, VA., August 23, 1864. Maj. Gen. W. H. C. WHITING, Comdg. Third Military District, Wilmington, N. C.: GENERAL: Your letter of August ii would have received more prompt attention had not my time been wholly engrossed by public duties which forbade the consideration of private matters, either my own or those of others. So far as I can relieve you from undue cen- sure with regard to your course on May 16, when charged with your important part of the programme of operations for that day, I cor- dially do so. Taking the special reports named by yourself as those which have most grieved you, it gives me pleasure to say that I did not place you under arrest nor deprive you of your sword on the field of battle, and that you were not absent from the field. I would if I could give as emphatic a negative to the other reports you men- tion. I can not do so, however, general, except so far as may be legitimately inferred from the conclusion reached and expressed in my official report. The language of my official report is as follows: The more glorious results anticipated were lost by the hesitation of the left wing and the premature halt of the Petersburg column before obstacles, in neither case sufficient to have deterred from the execution of the movements prescribed. * The remainder Qf this report is missing Page 261 CHAP. XLVIII.] SOUTH SIDE OF THE JAMES. 261 This language is as mild as the circumstances would permit me to use. It was framed, in fact, iu a spirit of kindness to yourself, allowing all possible weight to the embarrassments mentioned in your official report, as well as to the physical exhaustion under which you labored. It is the nearest approach to censure contained in my report, winch ignores the operations of your column during that day almost entirely, purposely because it failed to attempt, not to accomplish, the vital part assigned it in the operations proposed. Respectfully, your obedient servant, G. T. BEAUREGARD, General. No. 103. Report of Brig. Gen. Henry A. Wise, C. S. Army, commanding brigade, of casualties May 1620. HEADQUARTERS WISES BRIGADE, May 21, 1864. CAPTAIN: I beg respectfully to report the following casualties in my brigade: May 16. May 18. May 19. May 20. Command. Q ..~ 0 ~ 0 0 4 26th Virginia Regiment 4 2 16 3 25 34th Virginia Regiment 4 8 2 29 3 36 46th Virginia Regiment 3 9 3 3 19 59th Virginia Regiment 2 1 1 7 Total 7 23 4 49 3 7 87 Respectfully, HENRY A. WISE, Capt. C. MCRAE SELPH, Brigadier-General. Assistant Adjutant and Inspector General. No. 104. Report of Capt. George D. TVise, Assistant Inspector-General, of operations June 2. HEADQUARTERS WIsEs BRIGADE, June 3, 1864. MAJOR: I have the honor to report that all wtis quiet on our lines on the 1st instant, and no firing of any kind, except the artillery firing from our lines, which commenced about 11 p. m. This firing was not replied to by the enemy. Orders were received about 1 oclock on the morning of the 2d in- stant for our whole line of skirmishers to move upon the enemy and drive them into their main works, and to take them, if it could be done without the loss of too many men. In obedience to this order, our line of skirmishers moved upon the enemy about 7 a. m. yeste Page 262 262 OPERATIONS IN SE. VA. AND N. C. [CHAP. XLVIII. day, and soon drove them from the rifle-pits occnpied by their pick- ets, and continned to drive them over a second line of rifle-pits for about three-quarters of a mile, and would have continued to drive them into their m~iln works if an order had not come down from the right ordering them to fall back to the first line of rifle-pits from which they drove the enemy. They immediately fell back to this line, but as soon as Major-General Johnson was informed of the order to fall back he ordered Wises and Johnsons brigades to move forward some 300 yards to a small redoubt thrown up by the enemy on a road leading to Ware Bottom Church, and establish a line of rifle-ditches from that point to the James River, and he also directed that the left of Ransoms brigade should be thrown forward, so as to connect our new line with theirs. This order was at once exe- cuted, and we now have a very fine, continuous rifle-ditch along the whole of our front, which completely covers our pickets. The casualties in the brigade yesterday and last night were 3 offi- cers wounded (1 mortally), 9 men killed, and 46 wounded. Three of this number were wounded by picket-fire last night. The officer of the picket reports that the Yankee picket kept up a fire upon our pickets all night, and that he did not allow our men to fire any more than he could possibly help. There were 29 Yankees captured by this brigade yesterday during the engagement. Our pickets report this morning that they have been beyond where the enemy had their vedette posts yesterday, but coul(t see nothing of the enemy. They did not go to their rifle-ditch, but were in sight of it and could see no Yankees at all. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, GEORGE D. WISE, Gai)tain and Assistant Inspector-General. Maj. G. 0. WATTS, Assistant Adjutant- General. 4 No. 105. Report of Got. William B. Tabb, Fifty-ninth Virginia Infantry, of operations ]Jifay 8. HEADQUARTERS, Nottoway Bridge, Va., May 9, 1864. CAPTAIN: When I arrived with my regiment at Hicksford on the 7th instant I found there General Beauregards telegram direct- ing me to proceed to Stony Creek and defend the railroad bridge at that point I reached this place about sunset the same day, and learned from citizens and from stragglers from Major Zeiglers command that the enemy had burned Stony Creek bridge and were rapidly advancing in this direction. A few minutes afterward a detachment of cavalry, about 500 strong, appeared in my front and made dispositions as if for an attack. Soon after dark they withdrew in a southeasterly direction. About 8 a. m. on the 8th I discovered a long train of wagons pass- ing in umy front along the Halifax road toward Jarratts Depot. The force at my disposal numbered 600 in the aggregate, consisting of the Fifty-ninth Virginia, two companies (Captain Streets and Captai Page 263 CHAP. XLVIII.] SOUTH SIDE OF THE JA~MES. 363 Owens) of the Twenty-sixth Virginia Regiment, and Captain Bosts company (C), Holcombe Legion Infantry, Sonth Carolina Volnn- teers. Earlier in the morning firing had been heard at Jarratts Station. Snpposing the 500 men I had seen the evening before to be the enemys rear guard and baggage escort, I detached 200 men from the Fifty-ninth Virginia and moved with them to a point on the Halifax road 2 miles distant, in the hope of intercepting them. In this I did not sncceed. The train passed the point I was making for before I conid reach it. From a prisoner I learned that General Kautz, with 3,000 cavalry and two batteries of artillery, was taking np a position at Chani- bliss house and preparing for an immediate attack on Nottoway bridge. I made all possible haste to retnrn to the snpport of Lient- enant-Colonel Jones, who had been left in comman(l of the force at the bridge. I had established my command on the south side of the river, along a railroad embankment, which effectually protected them from the fire of the artillery in front. Capt. H. Wood, of the Fifty-ninth Virgnia Regiment, with 35 men, was posted at Par- hams Crossing, 1 mile south of the bridge, on tijie road leading from Halifax road to Green Church bridge. A line of skirmishers con- nected this detachment with the main body. The enemy commenced shelling Colonel Jones while I was on my way from the Halifax~ road. At the same time an effort was made to break throngh the line of skirmishers. The detachment which I had carried to the Halifax road arrived in time to meet and repel this attack with con- siderable loss to the enemy. Almost simnitaneonsly a vigorons as- sault was made on my extreme rigbt. This was handsomely repulsed by Captain Wood. The enemy rallied and renewed the attack at this point with a regiment of cavalry (dismonnted) and one piece of artillery. Captain Wood was overpowered, and, after a very creditable resistance, was obliged to give way. Finding myself largely outnnmbered, and the enemy having turned my right flank and gained my rear, I had no alternative but to cross the bridge and take a position on the north side of the river. This I accordingly did, and occupied a small redoubt about 300 yards from the bridge. This movement involved the loss of the bridge, but was the only one by which I could avoid the unavailing sacrifice of ~my whole command. The enemy pressed me closely and at- tempted to follow me. They crossed the bridge and advanced a short distance toward the redoubt, but were driven back, leaving their dead an(l wounded on the field. They succeeded, however, in firing the bridge. Maj. P. H. Fitzhugh, commanding the two com- panies of the Twenty-sixth Virginia, gallantly volunteered to take 20 men and extinguish it. By the time lie reached it, however, the flames had made such headway that they could not be suppressed. After burning the bridge the enemy rapidly retired beyond range, leaving some of their dead and wounded omi the south side of the bridge also. After the action Lieutenant-Colonel Stetzel, Eleventh Pennsylva- nia Cavalry, was sent under a flag of truce to propose an exchange of prisoners. I assented to the proposition, with the condition that all the wounded left on the fieldConfederates and Abolitionists should be regarded as in my hands. Under this agreement, I recov- ered Lieutenant Talley, Fifty-ninth Virginia, and 4 men, and lib- erated Lieutenant [Corporal?] Jackson, Fifth Pennsylvania Cav- alry, and the same number of men, all the prisoners I had Page 264 264 OPERATIONS IN SE. VA. AND N. C. (Oiw~ XLVIII. Last night General Kautz was joined by the detachment which went to Jarratts Station, and early this morning the whole force moved in the direction of Sussex Court-House. The force in my front yesterday numbered from 2,500 to 3,000 cav- alry, consisting of the First District of Columbia, the Third and Seventh New York, the Fifth and Eleventh Pennsylvania Regi- ments, and six pieces of artillery. My loss in the action was 3 killed, 22 wounded, and 20 missing. Among the wounded are Lieut. Col. Joseph Jones, Capt. J. W. Mad- dux, Lieut. J. J. Bryaiit, and Lieut. N. Talley, of the Fifty-ninth Vir- ginia. Of the enemys loss I have no accurate information. They left 15 dead and 2 wounded on the field. They are known to have suf- fered severely. The officers and men generally behaved well through- out this affair, which lasted three hours. Among those most conspic- uous were Lient. Col. Joseph Jones, Fifty-ninth Virginia; Maj. P. H. Fitzhngh, Twenty-sixth Virginia; Capt. J. P. Barksdale, Fifty-ninth Virginia, and Lient. J. W. Huiidley, Twenty-sixth Virginia. Major Fitzhugh deserves special praise and thanks for his signal gallantry throughout the action. I regret that I can only mention Lient. J. W. Hundley, Twenty-sixth Virginia, Sergt. D. J. Traynham, Com- pany E, and Private John Y. Tabb, Company B, Fifty-niiith Vir- ginia, among those who volunteered with Major Fitzhugh to rescue the bi~idge while exposed to the fire of the enemys guns. There are many others equally entitled to thanks whose iiames I cannot ascer- tain, many of them from Company A, Fifty-ninth Virginia Regi- ment. On this occasion, as on all others where an opportunity has been offered them, the men of this company furnished many brilliant examples of most intrepid daring and devoted heroism. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, W. B. TABB Colonel, Comdg. Fifty-ninth Virginia Regiment. Capt. JOHN M. OTEY, Asst. Adjt. Gen. No. 106. Report of Brig. Gen. James G. Martin, C. S. Army, commanding brigade, of casualties .2VIiay 20. Killed. Wounded. Missing. 17th North carolina Regiment: Officers 3 Non-commissioned officers 3 Privates 42d North carolina Regiment: Officers 2 Non-commissioned officers 1 4 Privates 5 42 66th North Carolina Regiment: Officers 2 Non. commissioned officers 2 Privates 1 9 Total 11 102 8 a Supposed to be killed, as no prisoners were taken by the enemy. Respectfully forwarded. J. G. MARTJN, Brigadier-General Page 265 CHAP. XLVIII.] SOUTH SIDE OF THE JAMES. 265 No. 107. Report of Maj. Alexander W. Stark, Starks Battalion Virginia Artil- lery, of the capture of the U. S. gun-boat Shawsheen, at Turkey Island, May 7. HEADQUARTERS BATTALION LIGHT ARTILLERY, Taylors Farm, near Chaffins, May 8, 1864. SIR: In obedience to instructions on the evening of the 6th in- stant I proceeded with eight pieces of artillery, manned by Armis- teads and Frenchs batteries, in company with a detachment from the Twenty-fifth Battalion Virginia Infantry, Lieutenant-Colonel Elliott commanding, in the direction of Deep Bottom, to attack the enemys gun-boats reported off that point. A halt was made at Sweenys until the exact position of the boats could be known. At sunrise on y esterdav it was ascertained that about thirteen vessels, seven being iron- dads, were anchored abreast of Curls Neck Swamp, or Marsh, and could not be approached within 2 miles. About 10 a. m. a gun-boat was o serve at anchor near Turkey Island plantation, engaged in burning barns, houses, & c. Five 12- pounder Napoleons arid one 12-pounder howitzer were moved down and placed in position and opened upon the steamer, which surren- dered in about ten minutes. The vessel proved to be the gun-boat Shawsheen, armed with one 30-pounder Parrott, one 20-pounder Parrott, and one 12-pounder Dahlgren howitzer, and manned by about 35 men. The prisoners, to the number of 27, were imme- diately landed, and the boat destroyed to prevent her recapture by two iron-dads that were rapidly bearing down upon us. No casual- ties occurred on our side. The artillery returned to camp last even- ing. Respectfully submitted. A. W. STARK, Major, Commanding Artillery. Capt. C. F. LJNTHICUM, Assistant Adjutant-General. (Through Lieut. Col. Elliott, comdg. 25th Batt. Va. Jufty.) [Indorsement.] HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF RICHMOND, May 20, 1864. Respectfully forwarded. This affair reflects credit upon the parties concerned, and it gives me pleasure to bring to the favorable notice of the Department Major Stark, commanding battalion of artillery. R. RANSOM, JR., Major-General. No. 108. Report of Brig. Gen. Stephen Elliott, jr., C. S. Army, commanding brigade, of operations June 2. HEADQUARTERS ELLIOTTS BRIGADE, June 2, 1864. CAPTAIN: I have the honor to report that in pursuance of orders, I pushed forward at sunrise this nuormug a strong line of skirmishers along the entire front of my brigade in the (l~rection of time enemy Page 266 266 OPERATIONS TN SE. VA. AND N. C. [CHAP. XLVIII. works. That portion of the line resting on Ashton Creek and ex- tending to the center of the Seventeenth Sonth Carolina Volnnteers, after advancing nearly a mile, fonnd itself on the right of the bat- teries seen from the Ashbrooke honse, and at right angles to the enemys line, which trends off to the river in a line perpendicnlar to onr intrenchments. These skirmishers met no enemy. The skir- mishers in front of the left wing of the Seventeenth Sonth Carolina Volnnteers advanced a little over half a mile, enconntered a strong picket of the enemy, drove it in, killing 5 men, taking 2 prisoners, and snifering a loss of 2 wonnded, and then retreated before a regi- ment of infantry which was moved on its right flank. The line in front of the Twenty-second Sonth Carolina Volnnteers (the left of the brigade) advanced npon the works seen from the Ashbrooke honse, driving in the pickets, occnpying a portion of the rifle- its a part of it coming within 100 yards of the enemys works. A heavy colnmn of infantry having advanced from the enemys intrench- ments, onr skirmishers at the front retired, bringing away 17 pris- oners, having suffered in killed, wonnded, and missing a loss of 2 commissioned officers and 30 privates. I regret to say that Col. 0. M. Dantzler, Twenty-second Sonth Carolina Volunteers, fell mortally wounded while gallantly leading his men np to the enemys breast-works, and that he was left in the hands of the enemy. The line of skirmishers was subsequently ordered by me to reoccnpy its former position, to which it fell back in good order. The engagement of this morning shows that the enemy still occnpies the works in onr front with a strong force of artillery and infantry. Very respectfully, yonr obedient servant, STEPHEN ELLIOTT, JR., Brigadier- General, Commanding. Capt. R. E. FOOTE, Assistant Adjutant- General. No. 109. Reports of Capt. W. L. Trenhoim, Seventh South Carolina Cavalry, of operations May 1516. HEADQUARTERS SQUADRON CAVALRY, Tom Hinton C~reek, Dinwiddie County, Va., May 16, 1864. CAPTAIN: I have the honor to report that my command reached this point yesterday evening at 9 oclock. I sent forward from Blacks and Whites two scouting parties, each in charge of an officer, one to follow the line of the South Side Railroad and the other on the route taken by the enemy. Both parties returned about daylight this morning, the latter bringing the intelligence that the enemy crossed the Nottoway at Gills Bridge yesterday at 3p. m. ; ~tore up the bridge. The party of the Fifth South Carolina Cavalry crossed at the next bridge below, having sent information on to Petersburg by a courier furnished them from my party. Dr. Jones, of Brunswick County, came into my canip last night to report the enemy at his uncles plan- tation, 5 miles from Gills Bridge, west, i. e., toward Lunenburg Court- House. I have this morning sent two parties, each under an officer Page 267 CHAP. XLVIII.) 267 SoUTII SIDE OF TIlE JAMES. of which one must come up with the enemy to-day. This being a central point, I shall await fin~ther infer nation before leaving it, but will have a courier stand at Blacks and Whites. If there were a tele- graph station there it would contribute much toward the embarrass- ment of the enemy. It is rumored that General Dearing (Confederate) with his cavalry brigade is near Petersburg, waiting an opportunity to come up with Kautz. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, W. L. TRENHOLM, Captain, Commanding: Capt. G. B. LAMAR, Aide-de-Camp, Buricevitle. I think Dearing is only a colonel, and has but a regiment. HEADQUARTERS SQUADRON CAVALRY, Btaclcs and Whites, May 16, 1864p. m. CAPTAIN: I have the honor to report that, upon information re- ceived from Mr. Crenshaw, the railroad agent at this place, who rode post after me with it, that the enemy had certainly encamped at Jonesborough last night, an(l had there burned the null known as Crallis. I returned here with my command to await advices from my scouting parties. Had there been any other cavalry between Jonesborough and the Danville railroad, I should have gone on south of the Nottaway, but under existing circumstances considered it imprudent to run any risk whatever of not being able to get be- tween the enemy and the railroad, should he turn in that direction. It now appears that Mr. Crenshaws information was not correct, but that the enemy have marched with great rapidity directly to Lawrenceville, where they encamped last night, and that this morn- ing they went on toward. Belfield, leaving Lawrenceville at 8 oclock. I had written this much when, expecting a courier from nmy own scouts, I delayed the letter to send the information so received. General McLaws courier has now arrived with his letter. My dis- patch of 6 oclock was written: The enemy did not encamp in this vicinity last night, but at Lawrenceville, & c., and I regret that it was mmot correctly rendered. The only information I have so far is from citizens, except that a courier from the party of the Fifth South Carolina, who are following the enemy, passed here at dark and told me that their whole force encamped at Lawrenceville ammd left there at 8 oclock this morning, in the direction of Belfield. I have received no report yet froni my scouts, but have heard from others of their whereabouts, one party on each si(ie of the enemys route. I therefore infer that the enemy must be marching directly forward and that neither party has yet come up with him. It is certain that no force of the enemy encampect at Jonesborough last night, and that no mills were burned by them in that vicinity. I have been able to find no one now who will own having originated the story of their movement toward Lunenbnrg, and have no intelhi- gence of their being in that county, beyond the information re- ceived this morning from Mr. Crenshaw, which now is ascertained to have been incorrect. The moment I receive anything certain I will forward it with the utmost speed, but having suffered the mort Page 268 268 QPERATIONS IN SE. VA. AND N. C. [cHAP. XLVIII. fication of so seriously misleading the major-general commanding once, by accepting the statement of private persons, even the most reliable, I am loath to forward hastily reports not from a source which I know. Very respectfully, captain, your obedient servant, W. L. TRENHOLM, Capt. G. B. LAMAR, Captain, Commanding. Aide-de-Camp, Burkeville. No. 110. Report of Lieut. ~J0i. Wyatt M. Elliott, Twenty-fifth Virginia Bat- talion, Huntons brigade, of the capture of the U. S. gun-boat Shawsheen, at Turkey Island, May 7. CAMP 25TH BATTALION VIRGINIA VOL. JNFTY., Chaffins Farm, May 7, 1864. SIR: I have the honor to report that the expedition organized by the commanding general, composed of a detachment of artillery, under Major Stark, and a detachment of four companies from my command, in support of the same, proceeded on the errand assigned it Friday evening, and that the whole have returned to camp, having as far as possible accomplished the objects of the expedition. About 12 m. to-day the command encountered the gun-boat Shaw- sheen off Turkey Island, she having either incautiously or defiantly approached the position taken by the command, dropping anchor at a point within easy range for effective execution by the artillery and co-operating infantry, which opened upon her with such telling effect as to drive the gunners from their piec~es and prevented resistance after the first discharge of the same. Very speedily the vessel was completely disabled by the excellent fire of Major Starks artillery, and though reluctantly, she nevertheless hauled down her colors and displayed the white flag in token of surrender. A boat was dis- patched to enforce the delivery of the prisoners on board, the enemys boats being made available to bring them off. The officer was also instructed to fire the vessel, which was effectively done, the fire quickly reaching the magazine, exploding it, consigning all to the wind and waves. The immediate approach of two iron-dads, against which we were not prepared to contend, prevented the removal of anything from the vessel save the prisoners. During the engagement many jumped overboard and attempted to escape to the opposite side of the river, the larger portion of whom were killed by the infantry firing among them, it is thought Ensign Ringot, commanding, being of the number. Not more than 5 made their escape. The number of prisoners taken is 27, one of them being slightly wounded and now in brigade hospital. The crew is reported to have numbered between 40 and 50. She carried three gunsone 30 and one 20 pounder Parrott, and one 12-pounder howitzer (Dahlgren). It may be counted a matter of satisfaction that the vessel was so summarily and effectually destroyed, since we had information deemed satisfactory that it was a party from this vessel who had an hour before fired the barn and corn-houses of Mr. Robert Taylor, adjoining Page 269 CHAP. XLVIII.] ACTION AT WILSONS WHARF. 269 It affords satisfaction to report that in this affair the troops en- gaged under my command were fully equal to the requirements of the occasion, and I desire especially to commend the excellent per- formance of the artillery under Maj. A. W. Stark, who did every- thing Which the occasion demanded of them with energy and prompt- ness. There is occasion also for thankfulness that in this affair we sustained no loss whatever. I have the honor to be, respectfully, your obedient servant, W. M. ELLIOTT, Lieutenant- Colonel, Commanding. Capt. C. F. LINTHICUM, Assistant Adjutant- General. KAY 24, 1864.Action at Wilsons Wharf, Va. REPORTS. No. 1.Maj. Gen. Benjamin F. Butler, U. S. Army, commanding Department of Virginia and North Carolina. No. 2.Brig. Gen. Edward W. Hinks, U. S. Army, commanding Third Division, Eighteenth Army Corps. No. 3.Brig. Gen. Edward A. Wild, U.S. Army, commanding First Brigade. No. 4.Lieut. Julius M. Swain, Signal Officer, U.S. Army No. I. Reports of Maj. Gen. Benjamin F. Butler, U. S. Army, command ing Department of Virginia and North Carolina. HEADQUARTERS IN THE FIELD, May 25, 18647.30 a. m. (Received S p. in.) Maj. Gen. Fitzhugh Lee, lately promoted, made, with cavalry, ~n- fantry, and artillery, an attack upon my post at Wilsons Wharf, north side of James River, below Fort Pow h atan ,garrisoned by two regiments, all negro troops, Brigadier-General Wild commanding, and was handsomely repulsed. Before the attack Lee sent a flag, stating he had force enough to take the place, demanded its surren- der, and in that case the garrison should be turned over to the author- ities at Richmond as prisoners of war, but if this proposition was rejected he would not be answerable for consequences when he took the place. General Wild replied, We will try that. Re-enforce- ments were at once sent, but fight was over before their arrival. Loss not yet reported. Dispatch relating to Lee being over South Anna received. Will be ready to move on the instant. BENJ. F. BUTLER, Major. General, Commanding. Hon. EDWIN M. STANTON, Secretary of War. GENERAL BUTLERS HEADQUARTERS, May 25, 1864li a. m. (Received 9 p. in.) General Fitzhugh Lee abandoned his attack on our post on Wil- sons Wharf during the night, having completely failed. He lost 20 killed, whom he left on the ground in our hands. Among these is r Page 270 2Z0 OPERATIONS IN SE. VA. AND N. C. [CHAP. XLVIII. ported Major Breckinridge, of the Second Virginia Cavalry. He removed his wounded. We took 19 prisoners from him. Our own loss is 1 man killed, 20 wounded, and 2 missing. The defense was commanded by Brigadier-General Wild in person, commanding a force of 1,800 men, all of whom were negroes. I have the houor to be, with great respect, your obedient servant, BENJ. F. BUTLER, Hon. E. M. STANTON, Major-General, Commanding. Secretary of War. No. 2. Report of Brig. Gen. Edward W. Hinics, U. S. Army, commanding Third Division, Eighteenth Army Corps. HDQRS. THIRD DIVISION, EIGHTEENTH ARMY CORPS, city Point, Va., May 25, 1864. GENERAL: All is now quiet at Wilsons Wharf, the enemy having abandoned the attack during the night. Our loss is 1 mau killed, 20 wounded, and 2 missing. The enemy~s loss, Major Breckinridge, of the Second~Virginia Cavalry, and about 20 men killed and left on the ground; 19 prisoners. Their wounded were removed. E. W. HuNKS, Major-General BUTLER, Brigadier- General, Commanding. Commanding Dept. of Virginia and North Carolina. No. 3. Report of Brig. Gen. Edward A. Wild, U. S. Army, commanding First Brigade. HDQRS. FIRST BRIG., THIRD DIv., 18TH ARMY CORPS, Wilsons Wlmarf, Va., May 25, 1864. CAPTAIN: I have the honor to report that this post was attacked yester(lay at noon by a considerable force of the enemy, supposed to be cavalry, having three guns, probably horse artillery. The attack was evidently made in earnest, with a design of rushing in upon us suddenly, but they received so decided a check from our pickets, that a large portion of the force dismounted and made their approach more cautiously. They encompassed our front, and filling the woods on the river bluff to the north, tried to stop all communication with steamers coming to our aid, and harassed our landing place. They also made it uncomfortable for the gunners to serve their pieces on our gun-boats. After fighting an hour and a half, they sent forward a flag of truce, with a note containing a summons to surrender in the name of Maj. Gen. Fitz. Lee. This note was forwarded to de- partment headquarters yesterday. I declined. We then went at it again. They massed troops on our extreme right, concealed, by wooded ravines, and made a determined charge, at the same time keeping up a steady attack all along our front and left flank. This charge approached our parapet, but failed under our severe cross Page 271 CHAP. XLV1LI.] ACTION AT WILSONS WHARF. 2~1 fires. They fled back into the ravines, and after another hour grad- ually drew off out of sight. I sent out three sallying parties who found them still drawn up in skirmishing array beyond the woods. We left the picket to watch them, and. brought in a few rebel wounded and prisoners. The enemy built camp-fires, and passed a portion of the night in our front, but when at sunrise we advanced to feel of them, they had disappeared. Contrabands to-day tell us they went to Bottoms Bridge to resist the crossing of our troops at that point. During the afternoon we stopped passing steamers, claiming their aid, and calling ashore all troops aboard them, took them into our service, arming some with the guns of our wounded men and other spare gnus, and working others in various ways. We were greatly indebted to volunteersartillerymen of the First Con- necticut Heavy Artilleryfor taking the place of several of ours who had dropped with the heat, and of one who was shot, under the direction of the efficient and undaunted Lient. Nicholas Hanson, of Howells battery. The gun-boat Dawn (Captain Simmons, Execu- tive Officer Jackaway) rendered most efficient and material aid in shelling the enemy on both flanks, changing her position according to need. They have received my heartfelt thanks. Lieutenant Swains signal party worked faithfully under most discouraging cir- cumstances. I ought also to mention the good conduct of Captain Quackenbushs ensign [William F. Chase]. Coming down on the tug Mayflower to learn the character of the attack, the captain and pilot being both shot down, he instantly took the wheel, and brought her through. Within my own command all behaved steadily and weLl. Espe- cially the conduct of the pickets and skirmishers under Capt. Giles H. Rich, First U. S. Colored Troops, was very fine. Our loss is 2 killed, 19 wOull(led, and 1 missing. Besides the civilians on the steamers, Capt. W. H. Wild, acting assistant inspector-general, and Lieut. Elam C. Beeman, First U. S. Colored Troops, were wounded. The enemy had ample opportunities for removing all their dead and wounded from every part of the field, except from the abatis, the scene of the assault. There we found about two dozen killed, in- cluding a captain and a major. We brought in 6 wounded rebels and 4 prisoners. We have no accurate count of their force. I estimated them at least double my own, and probably triple. Prisoners stated that they had detachments from three cavalry brigades, comprising all their available men. A memorandum book in the pocket of the dead major (Cary Breckinridge, Sixth [Second] Virginia Cavalry), gives on pages 41 and 42 a clue to the parties, but not directly to th~ numbers. Prisoners stated that the expedition, under command of Maj. Gen. Fitz. Lee in person, started froni Richmond in the even- ing of the 23d and marched all night; We might have slaughtered twice as many of them, but that we were at the time short of artillery ammunition (owing to the recent change of batteries at this post) of that particular caliber, and econ- omized our stock, fearing a lengthened siege. This fault is since corrected. We were actively engaged about five and a half hours. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, EDWD. A. WILD, Brigadier- General of Volunteers. Capt. SOLoN A. CARTER, Acting Assistant Adjutant-General Page 272 272 OPERATIONS IN SE. VA. AND N. C. [CHAP. XLVIII. No. 4. Report of Lieut. Julius M~ Swain, Signal Officer, U. S. Army. HEADQUARTERS WILDS BRIGADE, Wilsons Landing, Va., May 25, 1864. CAPTAIN: I have the honor to report that this post was attacked yesterday at about 1.30 p. m. by a force of the enemys cavalry, sup- posed to be over 3,000 strong, under the command of General Fitz- hugh Lee. From 2 till 6 oclock they fired incessantly upon our line. My station is on the bank of the river, within 10 yards of the left of our rifle.pits, and during three hours of the attack served as a prominent mark for the enemy. I sent Private Mott with 1 man on the gun-boat, and until 5 oclock we were enabled to direct the fire of the guns and communicate with Sergeant Walker at Fort Powhatan. Our flag was in sight, but we were screened from view by a pro- jection of the river bank. A detachment of the enemy, number- ing about 100, afterward gained possession of the heavy-timbered point on the river, not more than 70 yards from the station, and opened fire upon us so fiercely that we were forced to abandon our post and seek protection behind the earth-works. After half an hours delay, I opened station on board a transport near the wharf, and was enabled to direct the fire from the gun-boat so successfully that they materially checked the enemys movements on our right. About ~ oclock the enemy retired, leaving 20 of their dead and sev- eral wounded on the field. The small detachment under my command worked successfully throughout the attack and received the thanks of the general com- manding. I wish to recommend to your favorable notice second-class Private Mott, who flagged several messages under fire, and then, as afterward on the gun-boat, behaved in a manner creditable alike to himself and our corps. I am, very respectfully, your obedient servant, JULIUS M. SWAIN, Second Lieutenant and Signal Officer. Capt. L. B. NORTON, Chief Signal Officer, Dept. of Virginia and North Carolina. JUNE 9, 1864.Engagement at Petersburg, Va. REPOHTS, ETC. No. 1.Maj. Gen. Benjamin F. Butler, U. S. Army, commanding Department of Virginia and North Carolina. No. 2.Maj. Gen. Quincy A. Gilimore, U. S. Army, commanding Tenth Army Corps. No. 3.Brig. Gen. Robert S. Foster, U. S. Army, Chief of Staff, Tenth Army Corps. No. 4.Lient. Col. Edward W. Smith, Assistant Adjutant-General, U. S. Army. No. 5.Brig. Gen. Alfred H. Terry, U. S. Army, commanding First Division. No. 6.Lient. Col. Samuel B. Taylor, Sixty-second Ohio Infantry, First Brigade. No. 7.Col. Joseph R. Hawley, Seventh Connecticut Infantry, commanding Second Brigade Page 273 CHAP. XLVIII.] ENGAGEMENT AT PETERSBURG. 273 No. 8.Lieut. Col. Lorenzo Meeker, Sixth Connecticut Infantry. No. 9.Capt. Theodore Bacon, Seventh Connecticut Infantry. No. 1O.Lieut. Col. Josiah I. Plimpton, Third New Hampshire Infantry. No. 11.Col. Joseph C. Abbott, Seventh New Hampshire Infantry. No. 12.Brig. Gen. Edward W. Hinks, U. S. Army, commanding Third Division, Eighteenth Army Corps. No. 13.Brig. Gen. August V. Kautz, U. S. Army, commanding Cavalry Division. No. 14.Lient. Col. Everton J. Conger. First District of Columbia Cavalry, First Brigade. No. 15.Col. Samuel P. Spear, Eleventh Pennsylvania Cavalry, commanding Second Brigade. No. 16.Lieut. J. Frank Cummings, Fifth Pennsylvania Cavalry, Acting Assistant Adjutant-General. No. 17.Lieut. Col. Christopher Kleinz, Fifth Pennsylvania Cavalry. No. 18.Congratulatory orders from Brig. Gen. Henry A. Wise, C. S. Army, com- manding First Military District, Department of North Carolina and Southern Virginia. No. 19.Brig. Gen. Raleigh E. Colston, C. S. Army. No. 1. Report of Maj. Gen. Benjamin F. Butler, U. S. Army, commanding Department of Virginia and North Carolina. HEADQUARTERS IN THE FIELD, June 10, 1864. (Via Fort Monroe, 1 a. m. 11th. Received 9.20 a. in.) All quiet along our lines. Yesterday General Kautz charged enemys works at Petersburg, and carried them, penetrating the town, but not being supported by General Gillmore, who had with- drawn his forces without a conflict, General Kautz was obliged to withdraw without further effect. General Kautz captured 40 prison- ers and 1 piece of artillery, which he brought away with him. It is a misfortune that General Gilimore did not support him. Might I not have the Thirty-sixth U. S. Colored Regiment from Point Look- out? Three regiments ought to hold the prisoners there. BENJ. F. BUTLER, Hon. EDWIN M. STANTON, Major-General, Commanding. Secretary of War. ADDENDA. HDQRS. DEPT. OF VIRGINIA AND NORTH CAROLINA, In the Field, June 10, 18641.20 p. in. General GILLMORE: Between now and 5 oclock you will forward to me a written report of the orders under which you acted in the movement on Petersburg, stating specially the times at which you were ordered to act and move; the times in which you did move; the attack made; the near- ness with which your column reached the enemys works; how far in the advance or rear you were of General Hinks column; how far you were separated from him; who was to make the feint, and who the real attack. Give the plan agreed upon by you; the number of men lost in killed or wounded in any attack made, and a full description of the attack, with such a report as shall give a clear and concise 18 R RvoL XXXvI, PT I Page 274 2~4 OPERATIONS IN SE. VA. AND N. C. [CHAP. XLV~. narration of what you did and what was omitted to be done; the time you left your most advanced position, and also a duplicate of all orders, either verbal or written, given to General Rinks, distinguish- ing between the two, and giving the [time] they were sent. You will carefully note each particular of this order, and see that each is an- swered specifically. State also the regiments, companies, and detach- ments that you had with yon, independent of Generals Kautzs and links commands. You need not give any report of the operations of either Kautz or Hinks. I have ordered a specific hour for this report because I have never yet received from you any report of your operations since you have been on this line. This order is imperative. You will acknowledge receipt by telegraph. By command of Major-General Butler: C. J. PAINE, Colon~i, Acting Chief of Staff. HDQRS. DEPT. OF VIRGINIA AND NORTH CAROLINA, In the Field, June 111, 1864. Maj. Gen. Q. A. GILLMORE, Comdg. Tenth Army Corps, & c., Line of In.trenchments: GENERAL: I have received your official report* sent to me in obedi- ence as to time but not in compliance with my orders of the 10th of June in regard to the movement upon Petersburg. Your note to Colonel Shaffer, chief of staff, has been shown me acknowledging receipt of that officers note containing the indorsement upon your re- port of June 10, and requesting a copy of the orders you have dis- obeyed. Of course you know the orders you have received, and I will with care and in detail set forth wherein I believe them to have been disobeyed. This is due to ~ou as well as my~elf. In relaf*n to your request for a court of inquiry, it shall be granted you so far as the operations of the 8th, 9th, and 10th of June, of which alone I have any report thereof, ar~ concerned. Such I expected and hoped would be the legitimate result of the indorsement on your report. Your demand of a court of inquiry into all your official acts and conduct while serving in this depart- ment is entirely inadmissible, and as it seems to me from the very good reason that no report having been made by you, of any of your other operations, I have no official knowledge by which I can either approve or condemn that conduct, and it would seem to be mani- festly improper to grant a court of inquiry upon conduct never offi- cially reported for approval or disapproval. It is possible that when your report of your other operations shall come in there may be no difference of opinion, and therefore nothing to be the subject of in. quiry. I must call your attention to the mistake in your note of this day which states that I ask for details which could only be obtained from subordinate reports. If you will turn to the order of the 10th, you will find that you were expressly required only to state your own acts and omissions, and the orders you yourself gave to General Rinks. Instead of complying in this particular, you sent * See p. 287 Page 275 CHAP. XLVIII.] ENGAGEMENT AT PETERSBURG. 275 me on the 11th the statement of conversations of Lieutenant Bar- nard, acting aide-de-camp, written by himself, which he claims to have had with General Rinks. I wished for the orders which you gave, not the conversations of a subaltern officer. As I proceed I will mention the points wherein your report neither complied with the order nor represents correctly the facts, times, and occurrences so far as they are known to myself or can be ascertained from others. The history of your connection with this most unfortunate and ill-conducted expedition is this: I had intended a movement upon Petersburg to be made, founded upon very careful investigation and correct information of the state of the defenses and of the number of the troops and general condition of the enemy, as well in Peters- burg as in front of our lines. I had determined to intrust that expedition to the comman4 of Brigadier-General Hinks and General Kautz, General Rinks to take about 3,500 of his colored troops as infantry, and two sections of a battery and assault the enemys works on two roads, the City Point road and Jordans Point road, or rather as near those roads as possible, avoiding the strong redans and moving on the light rifle-pits which were known to connect them. My information was that the force of the enemy consisted of the Seventh North Carolina, a few pieces of field artillery, about 300 of the Seventh Confederate Cavalry, who were employed in picketing the various roads into Petersburg, extending over a cir- cuit of some 20-odd miles, and the second-class militia of the neigh- borhood, consisting of exempts from physical disability from the army, boys under seventeen, and men between fifty and fifty-five, of which last number I had information there were 40, the whole militia forces amounting to between 1,000 and 1,200. These were the troops manning 9 miles of intrenchments, of which there was but a single lint, about 2j miles from the city proper. I had con- cluded to detach Duncans brigade of colored troops from the line of intrenchments on this side of the Appomattox to Ge~ral Rinks, thus weakening the line in order to make by a very i~uc hlarger force the attack doubly sure. I was informed and believed, and do still believe, and have subse- quent information to confirm it, that the enemys infantry parapets were such as might be ridden over by a mounted cavalryman. The plan of attack was that General Kautz should take 1,200 or 1,400 cavalry, and, making a detour which would take a considerable time, go out under cover of a column of infantry, striking out to the left and coming in upon the south side, would move upon the Jeru- salem plank road, which is on the left of the town; that movements on the enemys works in two columns should be made on the right of their intrenchments by the Jordans Point road and City Point road, avoiding the redans which cover those roads, and assaulting the infantry lines which connect them and which run through open fields, or not very thick woods, one to be a real and the other a feigned attack, to be converted into a real one, if the first, or Kautzs, movement was successful. While this plan of attack was being matured at Spring Hill with General Rinks, by a fortuitous circum- stance you joined the party. The intended movement, the causes which led to it, the information upon which it was based, and the plan of attack was there unfolded to you between General Rinks, yourself, General Weitzel, and myself, After the attack had been determined upon and we had separated, I was informed by General Page 276 276 OPERATIONS IN SE. VA. AND N. C. [CHAP. XLVIfl. Weitzel that you very much desired to take command of the expedi- tion, alleging as a reason the great importance of the expedition to the Union cause, the necessity of having tried troops to cover the retreat in case of disaster, or who would be more to be depended upon in making an assault upon the enemys lines, and you offered to take one of the white brigades from your line instead of Dun- cans colored brigade, which was to be left on the line in its place, and with it to make the real infantry attack. Against my better judgment, feeling unwilling to decline an offer to have the expedition led by an officer of your rank and presumed. experience, and feeling still more unwilling to trust so important an enterprise to untried troops, as yet very little under fire, and colored troops whom you seemed to think were not to be so much depended upon as your own, II accepted the offer, and placed the whole detail of preparing the expedition, so far as ypur part was concerned, in your hands. This was about 12 in. on the 8th. I took upon my- self to see to it that General Hinks should have his brigade of colored troops ready at the time appointed, and this was promptly done by him. You were directed to march the brigade from your lines at 12 oclock at night across the pontoon bridge, which has been laid now three weeks on the left of the line of intrenchments, of which you have been many days in command, and which forms a part of the defensive works of that line, becaus~ it is the means of marching troops to re-enforce the extreme left work on the southern side of the Appomattox, if attacked, or to withdraw troops from that work on to your line, if there attacked. After crossing that pontoon bridge you were to put your brigade in some convenient spot until near day- light, and then, in conjunction with General Hinks, you were to march 3 miles, which would bring you upon the enemys pickets by a good, tried, and high road, which had been many times recon- noitered by General Hinks cavalry, and which could not be mis- taken. You were then to march rapidly at daybreak, drive in the en- emys pick~ts, follow them closely, and pursue them into their works. As soon asW your column of infantry uncovered a road which led to the left in the direction of the Jerusalem plank road, General Kautz, whose column was to be in the rear of yours, was to go to the left, make the detour of the defenses of the town at such distance from them as to be unobserved, if possible, and make his attack on the left at the Jerusalem plank road. All these positions and roads were explained to you by the aid of the very correct map copied from the one found on the person of the rebel General Walker, who was for a time in command of the defenses of Petersburg. It was understoood between General Kautz and yourself and myself, that the distance he would have to travel would be between 15 and 20 miles. Further, there was explained to you the great bene- fits which would result from the expedition, in the entire shutting off of supplies for an indefinite time from Lees army, by the cutting of the bridges across the Appomattox, especially the one known as the Government bridge, which has been built by the rebel authorities, and solely used for their own purposes since the war; and as that railroad bridge formed the only link of railroad of the proper gauge on which the transportation of Lees army could be sent south, and as immediately upon an attack upon Petersburg from the south side, all the rolling-stock at Petersburg would be sent to Richmond, and there be effectually cut oft, it seemed to nie that to obtain the object would justify the risk of a pretty large expenditure of life, i Page 277 CHAP. XLVIII.] ENGAGEMENT AT PETERSBURG. necessary, and therefore I gave you as my deliberate opinion that the advantage would be cheaply purchased at 500, and not too dearly with the sacrifice of 1,000 men in killed and wounded. All these details, the importance of moving in time to make an early attack in the morning, in order that you might be able to return to your intrenchments at daybreak on the following morning, where, if the enemy were in any force we might expert an attack upon our lines in return for the attack upon Petersburg, if at all, were fully explained to you, and upon your suggestion that the march of your troops (which, however, by no accident could exceed 20 miles) would be too fatiguing, I stated to you that if successful in your attack on Petersburg, you might content yourself by sending back 1,000 of the negro troops, with which I would endeavor to hold the in- trenchments; and that, knowing their marching capabilities, I had no doubt of their being able to come in. It was further explained to you that, if you got into Petersburg and destroyed the bridges so as to put the Appomattox without means of being crossed between General Kautz and the enemys forces in front of our line of intrenchments, he was then to pro- ceed down the railroad with his cavalry, destroying it as far as he could, until he was opposed by a sufficient force of the enemy guard- ing the railroad to cause him to turn back. At 5.10 in the afternoon of the 8th instants in answer to your sug- gestion as to taking two batteries of artillery, I replied to you, I thought two sections of a battery would be sufficient, because this is not to be artillery work, but a quick, decisive push. You in- formed me that you intended to take four regiments and that you hardly knew how you could take any single brigade, because many of the men of each brigade were on picket, and to withdraw the pickets and change them before the usual time would give the en- emy notice that a movement was contemplated. I therefore author- ~zed you to form a composite brigade of four regiments, from the regiments not on picket, to obviate that difficulty, and stated that I supposed those four regiments would be at least equal in numbers to the two negro regiments with which I had intended to make one of the attacks. In violation of that understanding, knowing how much you weakened our line here, and without my knowledge, you took five regiments. to. wit: Seventh Connecticut, Third New Hampshire, Seventh New Hampshire, Sixth Connecticut, and Sixty- second Ohio, and although directed, by my order of the 10th, to state all the regiments, companies, and detachments which you took with you, you have, either carelessly or purposely, concealed the fact that you took the fifth regiment, and have made no mention of the cavalry or artillery which you took with you. How such an omission could carelessly have happened under my order to you to carefully note each particular of this order and see that each is answered specifically, and to state also the regi- ments, companies, and detachments you had with you independent of Generals Kautzs and Hinks commands, will require explana- tion. Further, in contravention of your own deliberative opinion given to me, you took the fifth regimeiit from the line of pickets, not giv- ing it time hardly to get ready before it was required to be in order to march. Instead, then, of marching at a proper hour to reach the other side at 12 oclock, where you yourself desired me to send a staff officer to order General Hinks to report to you at 12 oclock Page 278 278 OPERATIONS IN SE. VA. AND N. C. [CHAP. XLVIIL you did not personally reach that point until 2.30 in the morning, keeping General Hinks waiting for you in the saddle from 12 to 2.30, and the excuse in your report that some of your regiments got lost is hardly an answer for your own remissness in not keeping an appointment with a general officer of nearly an equal rank with yourself and of quite as meritorious services. You also say that some of your regiments got lost in getting to the pontoon bridge.~~ Now, as the pontoon bridge is on the left of your line of intrench- ments, it would seem that your regiments got lost within their own lines. But, is it not true that you sent no officer of your staff to direct the march of that column as is customary and usual among generals of volunteers? Nay, more. Is it not also true that your chief of staff woke me up at 2 oclock in the morning to inquire the road, at my headquarters, to the pontoon bridge, which road should have been as familiar to him an to on as the path to your bed? The consequence was that your troops, instead of marching by a good dry road from the intrenchments across to the pontoon bridge, were dragged through the swamps a mile in the rear of your lines, in the mud reaching nearly to their knees, and fatigued with being kept up all night wandering about like sheep without a shepherd, and instead of having the hours from 12 to 3 to rest in, they had, as stated in your dispatch to me, at 3.40 a. in., just crossed the river, thus spending from 10.30 p. m. on the 8th, the time at which they actually moved, to 3.40 a. m. on the 9th (five hours and ten minutes) in moving over a space which does not exceed by measure- meiit 4 miles, besides remaining, from 9 p. in., when they were by your order to be ready, an hour and a half under arms before they did move at all. The question might be here asked: If it took five hours and ten minutes to get out of your lines,, how long would it take you to get into the enemys? In your report you further say that on the evening of the 8th you were instructed to take command of the expedition. Now, you know that, at your own special request, at 12 m. it was arranged that you should take command of the expedition, and you will further re- member that I sent you, at your request, at about 2 oclock in the afternoon of the 8th, a guide, who should be able to explain to you the nature of the enemys works. You further say in your rej?ort that Generals Kautz and Hunks had received, all their instructions preparatorily from myself. That is true; but those instructions to Generals Hinks and Kautz were given in your presence and upon consultation with you. You further say in your report that some of the regiments lost the road to the pontoon bridge, so that General Kautz and Colonel Hawley (in command of your brigade) did not get their commands across until 3.40 a. m. That report throws un- merited censure upon General Kautz, because his command was ordered to follow the infantry across the bridge, and, of course, if he obeyed his orders, until you got across he could not go over. You stated to me in your dispatch of 3.40 a. in. that you had no doubt the enemy are fully apprised of our movement by the noise of the bridge. It is not muffled, and the crossing of the cavalry can be heard for miles. The bridge was muffled by the engineer corps, some 10 bales of hay having been put upon it to prevent the sound of the cavalry being heard upon it, and if it w~s gone, it was be- cause your troops used it up in attempting to dry the mud and water (which they should not have had upon them, if properly directed Page 279 CHAP. XLVIII.1 ENGAGEMENT AT 1~ETERSB1YRG~ 2~T9 from their feet as they passed it. The fact that it was not heard many miles is now ascertained, because you surprised and captured in th~ morning the enemys pickets, hours after the cavalry crossed, within 3 miles in a straight line of this very bridge, and they say, up on examination, that they did not hear then of the movement. You did not move until 5.30 a. in., an hour after sunrise. You did not reach the enemys outer pickets until after 8 oclock, and you made no such demonstration as caused any alarm in Petersburg until 9 oclock, as is evidenced by the fact that General Kautzs com- mand captured a schoolmaster, whom I have examined, who was in his school in Petersburg after 9 oclock, when the first alarm was given. You further say in your report that It was understood as essential that the attack should be a quick, decisive push to prevent re-enforcements to the enemy from their forces on our front north of the Appomattox, only about two hours rnarcb distant. They had 7 miles to march to Petersburg, and 3 to the intrench- ments, while you had but 4 to march. If they used the same rate of progress that you did, it would be a matter of easy calculation at what time the enemys re-enforcements would arrive. But you for- get to state that it was agreed upon on my part that my artillery should open all along my line in an active demonstration upon their forces, to keep them before us while you made your movement, and that that opening by me was to be upon the first gun being heard from you, and I waited at the signal station with my glass on where your column should have been until nearly 9 oclock, and then opened immediately, as was agreed upon, on hearing your first gun, and with such effect that no forces left the front and passed to Petersburg until after you returned within your own intrenchments. This was made certain by the observations of the signal officers, who commanded both the turnpike and the railroad, being the only com- munication between the enemy in our front and Petersburg. You have endeavored to state in your report what my orders to Generals Kautz and Hinks were. That was no part of your report required by my order. I knew what my orders ~o them were without any information from that source. You further say in your report, Hawley drove in the enemys pickets on the City Point road shortly after 6 a. m.,and about was before the enemys works. There must certainly be a very grave mistake bere. You say in your dispatch to me that you moved at 5.30 a. m. You were then 4 miles from the enemys works, and un- less they advanced their pickets umuch farther than usual, and your rate of progress was much faster than when in your own lines, you could not have reached his pickets at 6 oclock, nor could you have been before his works at 7, nor were you there at that time, because when before his works, when within cannon range, he opened fire upon you, and that first gun was much nearer 9 than 7. And Colonel hawley will tell you if you will ask him, as he has told me, that he never did drive in the enemys pickets at any time during the day, much less at 6 oclock in the morning. You say further, in your report, that General Kantz was expected to reach the enemys works at 9 oclock. As it was understood that his march was at least 15 miles to your 4, and as he expressly said that he should only march upon a walk, how could, you suppose that he could accomplish the 15 miles in nearly the same time that i Page 280 280 OPERATIONS IN SE. VA. AND N. C. [CHAP. XLVIII. took you to accompl~ish the 4? You nowhere in your report say, nor is it true, that you or your brigade commander of the force un- der your immediate command, with which you were to make the real attack, saw any 20 rebel soldiers in any one body during this day. You saw no line of battle, nor did your soldiers approach near enough the enemys works to ascertain whether or not there was an abatis in front of theni, aiid the strength of them was only demonstrated upon another part of the line, where they were ridden over by General Kautz with his cavalry. You further report to me that General links drove the enemy into their intrenchments, and that you ordered him to hold his posi- tion and keep the enemy within his intrenchments, and that lie re- plied that lie thought he could do it. His exact reply was that he could do so until doomsday, if that was all you desired. You fur- ther say, in your report, that on Colonel Hawleys front the enemy were never entirely within their works, but fought outside. As you never saw anything but a skirmish line fighting, why do you say that Colonel Hawley drove in the pickets, if they always fought outside? You further say, As soon as the nature of the works in our front was ascertained, I was convinced that an assault upon them would, in all probability, fail. It is respectfully submitted that that was none of your business. You were ordered to make that assault, and upon the commanding general was the responsibility. You fur- ther say in your report that 1 ordered the two positions to be main- tamed, expecting every moment to hear from General Kautz, who was expected to reach the enemys works at 9 oclock. Is there amiy- thing in your report or in the facts which is descriptive of a quick, decisive push, or anything which seems like that, or any reported attempt to obey my order? You further say that at about 1 oclock, in order to get General Hinks and Colonel Hawley together, I directed them to withdraw to the junction of the road in front of Baylors, where I waited until after 3 oclock to hear from General Kautz, or, in other words, General Hinks and Colonel Hawley being a mile apart in front of the enemys works, as you say in a former part of your report, you withdrew them 2 miles from those works in order to get them together. It might be supposed that a junction of a mile might have been made without a withdrawal of 2 miles froni in fromit of the intrenchments, which you admit that, if you could not take, you were to remain and hold the enemy in them until you heard from General Kautz. It is suggested that advancing toward him 2 miles would have been a much more certain way to have heard from him. Again you say, Receiving no information from that quarter, I concluded that he had taken his command on a raid, as directed or authorized by you. This last sentence is an entire niisstatenieiit of the fact, so gross that one would suppose it must have beemi known to you. General Kautz was not authorized or directed by nie to go oii any raid until after Petersburg was taken, the bridges and pub- lic buildings and public property destroyed, which would put the lines of the Appomattox between him and the enemy. Nothing could be better understood; nothing more distinct. If you sup- posed he had taken Petersburg and then had gone on the raid authorized, why did you not go in? If you supposed lie had not taken Petersburg, why did you not go to his support? It seems to me that an infantry support of 3,~00 men desertiiig 1,400 cavalry amid leaving them to their fate in immediate contact with the force Page 281 CHAP. XLVIII.] ENGAGEMENT AT PETERSBtTRG. 281 of the enemy, too large for that infantry to atfack, according to the theory upon which you were acting, was the most unsoldierly act ever done by a commanding officer. You further say, in your report, that you then withdrew to the saw-mill, where I remained about an hour, and then marched back to our intrenchmeuts; or, in other words, you withdrew another half mile from the enemy, and waited another hour. Now it turns out that at 1.30, thirty minutes after you withdrew your forces from the enemy, General Kautz made his attack at the point designated, carried the works, penetrated the town of Petersburg, and did very gallantly all that he was required to do, but was obliged to withdraw, re6eiving no support from you, who was at that time industriously getting General Hinks and Colonel Hawley together by withdrawing from before the enemys militia. You say further in your report that it was no part of the plan to assault the enemys works on the right as they were known to have interior lines of redoubts. At a single point only is there an in- terior line, and that is at Jordans, on the City Point road, and it was fully explained to you that that interior line was a failure, being commanded by the outer line, which was higher, and you yourself agreed with me that you would make the real attack on the right while General Hunks made the feigned attack; and in my order of this morning for you to report~ you were ordered to say which was to make the feigned and which the real attack, which you have wholly omitted to do. You were also ordered to giv~ all verbal orders which you sent to General links, which you have failed to do. You were also ordered to state the regiments9 companies? and detachments which you took with you, which you have failed to do. You were also ordered to state specially the times at which you were ordered to act and move, which you have failed to do. You were also directed to state the nearness which your column reached the enemys works, which you have failed to do. You were also directed to state how far in advance or rear you were of General Hinks column, which you have failed to do. You werc~ also ordered to give the plan agreed upon between you, if any, which you have failed to do; and to give the number of men lost in killed and wounded in an attack made, with a description of the attack, which you have failed to do; and you were told that you need not give any report of the operations of Generals Kautz or links, which you have attempted to do. For these reasons your report is wholly defective, unsatisfactory, and unapproved of, and your entire action such as requires me to report it to the general commanding the Army of the United States and to the War Department for such action as they may think proper. Certain it is, made so from the examination of prisoners captured since, as well as before, that 4,500 of my best troops under your com- mand were kept at bay without an attempt at attack, so far as you were concerned, by some 1,500 men, 600 only of which were Confed- erate troops, and the rest old men and boys, the grave and the cradle being robbed of about equal proportions to compose the force opposed to you. Without, at this moment, giving words of characterization of the disobedience of orders and your conduct on the field, I submit this statement of facts in review of your report, as you have requested me to do, most of them known to myself, my chief engineer, my sig- nal officers, and an officer of General Grants staff, who was here pres- ent, hearing the instructions and knowing what was done from you Page 282 282 OPERATIONS IN SE. VA. AND N. C. rcHiP. XLVITT. verbal report made in his presence upon your return, to your careful consideration; and in connection I will call your attention to the fact tin~ after your return to my headquarters at 6 oclock in the evening, and nxon being informed of what had happened to General Kautz, you were very anxious to go out to find him with an escort of 50 cavalry, and that you sent your body guard to my headquarters at 8.30 in the evening for that purpose, when I informed you that General Kautz had returned, having been inside the intrenchments of Petersburg. It would seem that if when you were within 5 miles ~f him with 3,500 men you were not able to open communication with him, it was hardly worth while to try with a body guard of 50, because such an operation would have added weakness to him and ~uiot sta~ength. To have been obliged to review your report, point out some of its errors and inconsistencies, and to bring out the disobedience of orders, as well in point of time as in want of action, to be obliged to.dwell upon the details of this humiliating failure, to probe anew the acute wounds of hopes blasted when so much was expected, to be obliged to comment even with deserved severity upon the actions of an officer whose per- sonal relations have been as pleasant as mine with you, has been a most painful task, to which nothing but a conviction of the stern neces- sity of a duty to the country to be done could have compelled me. I have the honor to be, your obedient servant, BENJ. F. BUTLER, Major- General, Commanding. HDQRS. DEPT. OF VIRGINIA AND NORTH CAROLINA, In the Field, June 14, 1864. Lient. Gen. U. S. GRANT, Commanding Armies of United States: GENERAL: I have the honor to inclose the report* of General Gill- more of his operations on Petersburg, with my indorsement thereon; also a copy of a notet to my chief of staff received in reply, also the reply furnished him [Gillmore] by me at his request, and a copy of my special order of this date, being the action taken upon the whole subject. I need not say to you how unpleasant and painful this whole matter has been, and the necessity of taking the action I have, which seemed to me imperative. The whole niatter will be investigated by a competent court of inquir ~ of valuable lives in other eiigage- Not taking into account the { ~ents in the war, a more disastrous defeat has not been sustained by the American arms than this has been to the success of the oper- ations on the south side of the James. Had the movement been a success, as it easily might have been, Petersburg would have been in our possession, as all subsequent and prior information shows it might and ought to have been, the whole railroad destroyed effec- tually, the line of the Appomattox secured, and the enemys defensive works in our front rendered useless. I also iiiclose a copy of the Richmond Sentinel with the account of the Petersburg Express of the affair. It will be seen by that account that the enemy never discovered that Generals Gillmore and Hinks with the real attacking column came against them at all. They describe the movements of the real column of attack simply as feints to deceive our forces while the real movemeiit for the * See p. 287. t See of June 12, p. 290 Page 283 CHAP. XLVIII.) ENGAGEMENT AT PETERSBURG. 283 surprise and capture of the city was on the Jerusalem plank road coming to Petersburg from a southerly direction. On the two first roads (i. e., the City Point road and the Prince George Court- House road, upon which was General Gillmores column) the enemy appeared in considerable numbers as early as 7 oclock, and this skirmishing was kept up for some time. I also inclose a copy of the map* furnished General Gillmore, with a sketch of the line of fortifications, and an indication of his and General Hinks position and General Kautzs attack. I inclose official copies of General Rinks and General Kautzs re- ports of the same movement without indorsement, as they have been sufficiently commented upon in my reply to General Gilimore, fur- nished at his request. I have the honor to be, very respectfully, your obedient servant, BENJ. F. BUTLER, Major- General. [Inclosure No. 1.] HDQRS. DEPT. OF VIRGINIA AND NORTH CAROLINA, Near Point of Rocks, Va., June 14, 1864. Maj. Gen. Q. A. GILLMORE, U. S. Army: GENERAL: I have the honor respectfully to inform you that an official copy of your report has been forwarded to Washington, with the indorsement thereon snggested in the note from the chief of staff. Also that the paper headed Statement of conversation be- tween Lieutenant Barnard, aide-de-camp, and General Rinks t was not received until the day after your report was received and acted upon, and as it is a paper not called for by my order directing your report, and is not such a paper as should, in my judgment, be the foundation of official action, it has not been forwarded to Washing- ton. Your attention is called again to the fact that it does not state the orders which you gave, but is what it purports to be a statement of conversation passed between General Rinks and that officer. I have also the honor to inform you that a steamer will be ready at once to take you to Fortress Monroe. I have the honor to be, very respectfully, your obedient servant, BENJ. F. BUTLER, Major- General, Commanding. (Inclosure No. 2.] SPECIAL ORDERS.] HDQRS. DEPT. OF VA. AND N. CAROLINA, In the Field, near Point of Rocks, Va., June 14, 1864. I. Maj. Gen. Q. A. Gillmore, having requested a court of in- quiry upon his official action in the expedition to Petersburg becanse of the indorsement of disapproval upon his report of his conduct made by the commanding general thereon, his request is granted, and the court will be convened as soon as the interest of the public service will permit. II. Ma~j. Gen. Q. A. Gillmore is relieved of his command, and will proceed to Fortress Monroe forthwith, to await the action of the court of inquiry requested by him. III. The staff of Major-General Gillmore, except his aides-de- camp, will report to Brigadier-General Terry, the senior officer, com * To appear in Atlas. t See p. 295 Page 284 284 OPERATIONS IN SE. VA. AND N. C [CHAP. XLVIII. manding the line of defenses. All acting staff officers upon General Gilimores staff will report to their several commands for dnty. IV. Brigadier-General Foster will report to Brigadier-General Terry, to be assigned to dnty. By command of Major-General Butler: R. S. DAVIS, lllajor and Assistant A~jutant-Genera1. HDQRS. DEPT. OF VIRGINIA AND NORTH CAROLINA, Near Point of Rocks, Va., June 14, 1864. Major-General GILLMORE, U~ S. Army: GENERAL: I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of your note of the 14th of Jnne, dated headquarters Tenth Army Corps, in the field near Hatchers, June 14, 1864. ~ I take leave to call your attention to the heading. After having been relieved from the corn- inand of the Tenth Army Corps, or of any troops in the field, such heading must have been an inadvertence. General Gillmore is laboring under a much more grave misapprehension than he imports to the commanding general if he supposes that it became the pain- ful duty of the commanding general to relieve him from his com- mand because of his request for the court of inquiry. The special order so relieving him was made because of the opinions expressed and the allegations made in the review by the major-general com- manding of General Gillmores action near Petersburg. If those are in any degree correct, and General Gillmore will understand that by the major-general commanding they must be assumed to be so, then General Gillmores services in the field would not be valu- ble to the service or the country; but, on the contrary, great mis- chief might arise, because of his rank, from the necessity of putting him in command of troops which, if the facts in that report are sub- stantially correct, could not be safely intrusted to General Gillmore s charge with hopes of success. In kind consideration, therefore, to General Gillmore, the major-general commanding coupled the order relieving him from command, which from the 9th day of Jun e has been, in the judgment of the major-general commanding, a necessity, with another paragraph in the order which gratified his request for a court of inquiry; and leave is taken to assure General Gillmore that he would have been relieved from command without any such request, and the time was only delayed until the hourly expected arrival of an officer of experience and ability to take his place. It is a source of regret that General Gillniore should have misconstrued what was intended as a kindness. General Gillmore will, therefore, at once proceed to Fortress Monroe, and there await further orders. The major-general commanding has the honor to state his under- standing of General Gillmores request for a court of inquiry, and the regulations and the purport of the article of war as govern- ing the action which ought to be taken upon such request. First, then, the Ninety-second Article of War provides, ameng other things, that As courts of inquiry may be perverted to dishonorable purposes, and may be con- sidered as engines of destruction to military merit in the bands of weak and envious commanders, they are hereby prohibited, unless directed ky the President of the United States, or demanded Ijy the accused. *See p. 291 Page 285 CHAP. XLVIII.] ENGAGEMENT AT PETERSBURG. 285 Now, then, to prevent subordinates from being oppressed by their superiors, the superior is not allowed to order a court against a sub- ordinates wish, but must ask the President leave so to do; but it by no means follows that therefore the subordinate has a right to have a court directed by the President at his request, or that the Presi- dent, if he directs the court, will not direct it to be or(lered by the superior. Therefore, understanding from your note that you desired a court of inquiry, that request was promptly granted you. The phrase in your note of the 12th is: It only remains for me to deny respectfully, but emphatically, the charges therein set against me, to request a copy of the orders I have destroyed or failed to obey, and then to demand of the President a court of inquiry to investigate all my official acts while serving in this department. I court a full investigation into the part I have taken in the campaign here. It is submitted that no man reading that sentence, especially with the context, would fail to find a request for a court as soon as you are furnished a copy of the orders. To that the commall(ling gen- eral replied, You knew what your orders were, and I pointed out to you wherein it was thought they were not obeyed. This was done with sufficient minuteness at least to give you notice of the particu- lars in which your conduct was deemed censurable. Then, again, a request to have all your conduct inquired into includes, of course, a request to have a part thereof inquired into; and it may be very proper to grant a part of that request, while one is obliged to refuse another part of it. It, therefore, cannot be said that a request to have all inquired into is not a request to have any given part inquired into. Whether you behaved well or ill on the 16th of May near Chester- field, for instance, can in no way illustrate or determine the fact whether you behaved well or ill near Petersburg on the 9th of June following, iii another distinct and diverse operation. The com- manding general already explained to you that not having received any official report of your action, he could [not], nor ought the Pres- ident, nor, in his belief, would the President, order any court of inquiry upon all the, official conduct of General Gillmore not yet officially reported, except to inquire, possibly, why General Gillmore had not made his official report earlier. If you request a court of inquiry it will be granted. If you do not request a court of inquiry you will say so, and the commanding general will give it his most attentive consideration whether or not you should be holden to your former request; and, therefore, a cate- gorical answer is desired to this question: Do you, or do you not, wish a court of inquiry upon your report of the operations of the 8th, 9th, and 10th of June, and the comnianding generals indorse- meut? If you do not, such action will be taken as the commanding gen- eral may be advised the good of the public service demands. If you do, as is already stated, it will be granted you; but you are earnestly desired to disabuse yourself of the idea that the question whether, you shall or shall not have a court of inquiry into your conduct has anything to do with your being relieved from corn- mand. I have the honor to be, very respectfully, your obedient servant, J. W. SUAFFER, Colonel and Chief of Staff Page 286 286 OPERATIONS IN SE. VA. AND N. C. [CHAP. XLVIII. [Indorsement.] WASHINGTON, D. C., June 22, 1864. Respectfully forwarded to the War Department for file. The reasons assigned in General Butlers order for relieving me from my command, viz, to await a Court of inquiry at Fortress Monroe, for which it was alleged I had applied, is distinctly dis- avowed in the within letter, and another and entirely different rea- son given, to wit, that in General Butlers opinion the command of troops cannot be safely intrusted to me with hopes of success. I respectfully submit that this can only be regarded as the opinion of one officer; and although that officer was at the time of expressing it my commanding general, it is well known that he was unfriendly to me, and had at various times treated me with marked discourtesy. Attention is called to what purports to be an extract from my note of the 12th instant, as follows: It only remains for me to deny respectfully, but emphatically, the charges therein set against me, to request a copy of the orders I have destroyed or failed to obey, and then to apply, & c. * This is not a correct extract from my note, which was written in a manifold writer. The original is now before me. Where the word destroyed occurs in the above alleged extract, the word dis- obeyed was used in the original. This is an important alteration of my language, and i~ calculated to convey the efroneous idea that I had destroyed some of the orders given me; while in fact I neither disobeyed, neglected to obey, nor destroyed any orders; and my re- p eated demand for copies of such orders, or any evidence that they a ever b eexi given, has remained unanswered. Q. A. GILLMORE, Major- General. HEADQUARTERS ARMIES OF THE UNITED STATES, City Point, June 17, 1864. Major-General BUTLER: If you have no objection to withdrawing your order relieving General Gillmore, I will relieve hini at his own request. The way the matter .now stands, it is a severe punishment to General Gilimore, even if a court of inquiry should hereafter acquit him. I think the course here suggested advisable, and would be pleased if you agree to it, though I do not order or insist upon it. U. S. GRANT, Lieutenant- General. HDQRS. DEPT. OF VIRGINIA AND NORTH CAROLINA, In the Field, June 17, 1864. Lieutenant-General GRANT, Commanding Armies of the United States: GENERAL: I send you the withdrawal of so much of my special order as relieves Major-General Gillmore, according to your request~ to take date as of the day of its issue, upon the supposition that it is to be operative and simultaneous with yours, relieving him at his request. BENJ. F. BUTLER, Major- General. *For full copy of note~ *e p. 29( Page 287 C~r. XLVIII.] ENGAGEMENT AT PETERSBURG. 287 [Inclosure.] SPECIAL ORDERS.] HDQRS. DEPT. OF VA. AND N. CAROLINA, In the Field, Va., Jane 17, 1864. So much of special orders from these headquarters as relieved MajorLGeneral Gilimore of the command of the troops of the Tenth Army Corps, serving in this department, is withdrawn as of the date of its issne, to wit, June 14, 1864. By command of Major-General Bntler: R. S. DAVIS, Major and Assistant Adjutant- General. SPECIAL ORDERS, HDQRS. ARMIES OF THE UNITED STATES, No. 36. City Point, Va., June 17, 1864. * * * * * * * 2. Maj. Gen. Q. A. Gilimore, U. S. Volunteers, is, at his own re- quest, hereby relieved from command of the Tenth Army Corps, serving in the Department of Virginia and North Carolina, to take effect and date from June 14 instant, and will proceed to Washing- ton, D. C., and report to the Adjutant-General of the Army for orders. His personal staff has permission to accompany him. * * * * * * * By command of Lieutenant-General Grant: T. S. BOWERS, Assistant Adjutant- General. No. 2. Report of lIIaj. Gen. Quincy A. Gilbnore, U. S. Army, commanding Tenth Army Corps. HEADQUARTERS TENTH ARMY CORPS, In the Field, near hatchers, Va., June 10, 1864. GENERAL: I have to report as follows in regard to the movement on Petersburg yesterday: On the day before, about noon, I was directed by you to get ready 1,800 infantry of my command to take part in this movement. You also informed me that General Kautz, with about 1,200 cavalry, and General Hinks, with 1,200 or 1,300 infantry, would co-operate in the movement. On the evening of the 8th I received your verbal in- structions to take command of the movement and get the troops that were to be drawn from the intrenchments across the Appomattox by midnight. Generals Kautz and Hinks had received all their preparatory instructions from yourself. Colonel Hawley commanded the infantry drawn from the intrenchments. His command com- prised the Seventh Connecticut, [Third New Hampshire], Seventh New Hampshire, Sixth Connecticut, and the Sixty-second Ohio Vol. unteers. Owing to the darkness of the night some of the regiments lost the road to the pontoon bridge, so that General Kautz and Col Page 288 288 OPE~ATJONS IN SE. VA. AND N. C. [CHAP. XLVIII. onel Hawley did not get their commands across the Appcrmattox until 3.40 a. in. yesterday, at which time I sent you the following dispatch: HEADQUARTERS, Major-General BUTLER. Broadway, June 9, 18643.40 a. m. My command has just crossed the river; some of it has been delayed by losing the road. I have no doubt that the enemy are fully apprised of our movement by the noise of the bridge. It is not muffled at all, and the crossing of the cavalry can be heard fbr miles. Very respectfully, Q. A. GILLMORE, Major-General. Your instructions to me were to attack the Petersburg defenses at three points. These defenses are known to be in front of tbe place, or :3 miles distant from it, with the ends resting on the Appo- mattox above and below the city. Kautzs cavalry were to pass around to the left and attack on the Jerusalem road. The infantry were to strike the line nearer to us. These instructions were verbal. The only written orders I got from you were contained in your dis- patch of the 8th, 5.10 p. in., that, This is not to be artillery work, but a quick, decisive push. This was understood to be essential to prevent re-enforcements to the enemy from their forces in our front north of the Appomattox, only about two hours march distant, From the pontoon bridge the command took the road via Copsas. Kautzs cavalry passed them at 5 a. in., followed by Rinks and Hawley. The following orders were given to General links at this time: CorsAs, June 95 a. m. Brigadier-General lINKs: In the attack about to take place in the defenses of Petersburg you are to take the Jordans Point road, following General Kautz until you strike that road. Un- less the attack is made promptly and vigorously there will be danger of failure, as the enemy will re-enforce Petersburg from their lines in front of General Terry. Should you penetrate the town before General Kautz, who is to attack on the Jeru- salem road, the public buildings, public stores, bridges across tbe Appomattox, depots, and cars, are all to be destroyed. Communicate with me on tbe City Point road. Q. A. GILLMORE, Major-General. This was the only written order to General Rinks. General Kautz had received his orders from yourself in general terms. They were that while the infantry engaged the works on the right he should force the intrenchinents on the left, enter the town, accomplish the desired destruction of property, and ieturn. I was ordered to bring back the infantry taken from the intrenchinents the same evening. Hawley drove in the enemys pickets on the City Point road shortly after 6 a. in., and about 7 was before the enemys works. On the Jordans Point road Rinks drove the enemy into their works and pushed up to within 50 yards of them. My aide, Lieutenant Barnard, went frequently to General Rinks. About 10 a. in. I received a message from the general that he had been obliged to withdraw somewhat to get a better position; that two regiments had been added to the enemys force in his front; that two of the enemys redonbts in his front were each armed with a field battery, and that it would be in- possible to carry that place by assault. I ordered General Rinks to hold his position and keep the enemy within his intrenchinents. He replied that he thought he could do it. On Colonel Hawleys front the enemy were never entirely within their works, but fough Page 289 CHAP. XLVIII.] ENGAGEMENT AT PETERSBURG. 289 outside. As soon a~ the nature of the works in our front was ascertained I was convinced that an assault upon them would in all probability fail, and I ordered the two positions to be maintained, expecting every moment to hear of General Kautz, who was ex- pected to reach the enemys works at 9 oclock. General Hunks and Colonel Hawley were about a mile apart. Communication was kept up between them by a road in the rear. About 1 oclock, in order to get them together, I directed them to withdraw to junction of road in front of Baylors, where I waited until after 3 oclock to hear from General Kautz. Receiving no information from that quarter I concluded that he had taken his command on a raid, as di- rected or authorized by you. I then withdrew to saw-mill, where I remained about an hour, and then marched back to our in- trenchments. I received no communication from General Kautz during the day. It was no part of the plan to assault the enemys works on the right, where it was known they have an interior line of redoubts, unless there was a strong probability of success, or until General Kautzs attack should divert them. It was and is my opinion, coincided in by my principal officers, that the works could not have been carried by the force we had. I have no official returns of killed and wounded. My loss was very slight25 killed and wounded will probably cover it all outside of Kautzs command. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, Q. A. GILLMORE, Major- General. Maj. Gen. B. F. BUTLER, Commanding Dept. of Virginia and North Carolina. [Indorsement.] Report of the expedition of which General Gillmore volunteered to take command entirely unsatisfactory; it fails to comply~in many particulars with the order requiring it ; states times, orders, and occurrences with much inaccurac5r. The conduct of the expedition, as disclosed by it, and in fact, was dilatory and ill-judged. The demonstration, too feeble to be called an attack, was in direct dis- obedience to orders. The whole affair, in view of the forces known to be opposed, was most disgraceful to the Union arms. BENJ. F. BUTLER, Jtliajor- General, Commanding. HEADQUARTERS TENTH ARMY CORPS, June 10, 1864. (Received 8 p. in.) In my report sent in this afternoon please insert the Third New Hampshire as part of Hawleys brigade. Very respectfully, Q. A. GILLMORE, Major- General. General BUTLER, Commanding. 19 R RVOL Xxxvi, PT I Page 290 290 OPERATIONS IN SE. VA. AND N. C. [CHAP. XLVIII. ADDENDA. JUNE 9, 18648.25 [p. in.] General GILLMORE: I have ordered your escort back. General Kautz is at my quar- ters, having come from the inner line of intrenchments of Peters- burg, having carried the outer and only line of intrenchments. BENJ. F. BUTLER Jllajor- General, Commanhing. HEAI~QUARTERS TENTH ARMY CORPS, June 9, 18649 p. m. (Received 9.10 p. in.) Major-General BUTLER: It seems very strange that General Kautz did not communicate with me at all, knowing as he did that my command was in two parts, beyond supporting distance of each other, and that circum- stances might render it necessary to draw them back and get them together, as was the case. It was not until after 3.15 that my com- mand was more than twenty minutes march from the intreuch- ments, waiting there to hear from General Kautz. Q. A. GILLMORE, ]ilajor- General. HDQRS. DEPT. OF VIRGINIA AND N. CAROLINA, In the Field, June 11, 1864. Maj. Gen. Q. A. GILLMORE, Commanding Tenth Army Corps: GENERAL: Your report of the demonstration upon Petersburg will be forwarded to headquarters of the Army, and a copy to the War Department, with the following indorsement: Report of thesexpedition of which General Gilimore volunteered to take command is entirely un~atisfactory; it fails to comply with the order requiring it in many particulars; it states times, orders, and occurrences with much inaccuracy. The conduct of the expedition, as disclosed by it, and in fact, was dilatory and ill- judged; the demonstration upon the enemy too feeble to be called an attackwas in direct disobedience to orders. The whole affair, in view of the forces known to be opposed, was disgraceful to the Union arms. BENJ. F. BUTLER, Major-General, Commanding. This should have been sent you this morning, as it was forwarded to me this morning for transmittal, but overlooked. Respectfully, your obedient servant, J. W. SHAFFER, Colonel and Chief of Staff. HEADQUARTERS TENTH ARMY CORPS, June 12, 18641 a. m. Col. J. W. SIIAFFER, Chief of Staff, & e.: Your note of last evening is received. As I consider the indorse- ment, which you say the major-general commanding intends to send to Washington with my report of the demonstration against Peters- burg on the 9th, to be not only unmerited and finjust, but not sus- tained by facts, it only remains for me to deny respectfully, bu Page 291 CHAP. XLVIII.] ENGAGEMENT AT PETERSBURG. 291 emphatically, all the charges therein set against me, to request a copy of the orders which I have disobeyed or have failed to obey, and then to demand of the President a court of inquiry to investi- gate all my official acts and conduct while serving in this depart- ment. I court a full investigation into the part I have taken in the campaign here. I received at 2.10 p. m. yesterday, while waiting for the reports of my subordinate commanders, an imperative order to submit by 5 oclock p. m. a full report of my operations, with a multiplicity of details which could only be obtained from the subordinate reports. Those reports, I am informed, have been made to the major-general commanding by his order. My report was completed at 5.20 p. m. in as much detail as the order seemed to demand, and I fail to see in it, as subsequently corrected, any important item requiring change. Two additions to it have since been made to correct unimportant omissions, one giving the name of a regiment inadvertently left out, and the other giving the written statement* of Lieutenant Barnard, of my staff, of all the communications which he carried between General Rinks and myself. I also omitted to state that four pieces of artillery accompanied Colonel Hawleys command. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, Q. A. GILLMORE, Major- General, Commanding. HEADQUARTERS TENTH ARMY CORPS, In the Field, near Hatchers, Va., June 14, 1864. Col. J. W. SHAFFER, Chief of Staff, Dept. of Virginia and North Carolina: COLONEL: I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of a special order, t by which I am relieved from my command, and directed to proceed to Fort Monroe, for the alleged reason that I had requested a court of inquiry upon my official action in the Petersburg expedi- tion. I beg leave, respectfully, to represent that the major-general com- manding has gravely misapprehended my note of the 12th of June. In that note I intimated that after receiving copies of the orders which it was alleged that I had disobeyed, my only recourse to protect myself from censure, which I believed to be undeserved, would be to demand from the President a court of inquiry, not on my action in the Petersburg expedition alone, but on my official acts and conduct while serving in this department. I had once before been subjected to censure, and I therefore designedly used the ex- pression while serving in this department. I did not at that time, nor have I yet asked for a court of inquiry from the major-general commanding, nor even from the President, and I respectfully refer to that portion of the Ninety-second Article of War, which prohibits such courts unless directed by the President, or demanded by the accused. If the passage in my note referred to could be construed to be such a request, which it was not, and was not intended to be, it must be taken with its qualifications by the President. *5~e p. 295. tSee p. 283 Page 292 292 OPERATIONS TN SE. VA. AND N. C. [CHAP. XLVIII. I have refrained, and I still refrain from asking for such a court; not because I do not desire the fullest examination of all my actions (I earnestly desire a most thorough and complete investigation when a suitable time shall arrive), but because such a proceeding would withdraw me from active service in the field during its continuance, and would require the presence as witnesses of officers who can ill be spared from their present duties. Even had I made a reqnest for a court, it would not be necessary, nor would it be in accordance with the usages and customs of the service to relieve me from command before the commencement of its session. I therefore respoctfully ask that the special order referred to may be countermanded, I have the honor to be, v~y respectfully, your obedient servant, Q. A. GILLMORE, Major- General. BERMUDA HUNDRED, June 16, 1864. Major-General BUTLER, Comdg. Dept. of Virginia and North Carolina: GENERAL: In reply to your letter dated June l1,* stating certain grounds of dissatisfaction with my report of my operations on the 9th instant, I have the honor to respectfully submit the following statement: Although I never received from you any detailed statement of your plan of the expedition, such as is given in your letter (pages 2 to 14 inclusive), it matters little, for the attacks were made at the three points mentioned by you, the infantry attacks on the right be- ing in point of time about five hours earlier than the cavalry attacks on the left. I know nothing about your instructions to General Kautz as to an expedition down the railroad, except that I under- stood from him an d yourself that he was instructed or authorized to make a raid whether he got into Petersburg or not. It was generally understood that the infantry should attack the enemys left at two points where it was known the fortifications were formidable, while the cavalry two or three hours later should force the line on the enemys right where it was supposed to be weak, enter the city, burn the bridges, and retire. On page 16 you say that I took more regiments than I was authorized to take. Nothing was said between yon and myself as to the number of regiments to go, but the num- ber of men was fixed at 1,800. General Terry was directed to fur- nish 1,400 (see his lettert) and General Turner the remainder. The detail, except that the Seventh Connecticut was to form part of it, was left to General Terry. I ordered no regiment from picket; neither did I neglect to furnish the necessary guides (see General Terrys letter and Colonel Hawleys report~). The troops marched to the pontoon bridge by the road in rear, becaase had they marched by the parapet the movement would have been observed by the enem y( see General Terrys letter). The troops started from the pontoon bridge toward Petersburg forty minutes later than ap- pears to have been intended by you from your remarks on page 21that is, they started at 3.40 instead of 3 oclock. The infan- try did not delay the cavalry in crossing the bridge, nearly all the cavalry crossed in advance of Hawleys brigade. You state (page 25) that I did not move until 5.30, whUe in fact I moved *See p. 274. See p. 298. t Page 297 Page 293 CHAP. XLVIII.] ENGAGEMENT AT PETERSBURG. 293 from the bridge at 3.40, and drove in the enemys pickets at about 6 on the City Point road (see statement of Colonel Smith, & c. *). I sent no dispatch stating that I moved from the bridge at 5. 3u. I was just leaving Copsas at that time, and General Kautzs com- man d was then probably some 3 miles in advance, closely followed by the infantry. General Kautz informed me that it gould take about four hours for him to reach the enemys works from Copsas. It actually took about seven hours, although he was in advance of the infantry, and did not delay for them. The plan of following in the rea~r of the infantry suggested by General Kautz, I changed to prevent unnecessary delay. Where I first speak in my report of driving in the enemys pickets shorti! after 6 oclock, I mean of course driving them back, and not into their fortifications at that hour. For orders given to General Rinks, and messages received from him on the field, I refer you to the statement of Lieutenant Barnard, of my staff, who will testify under oath to the correctness of his statement. t I gave to General Rinks no orders, and received from him no messages conflicting with these. I understand General Rinks to have been unqualifiedly opposed to umaking an assault; I have not seemi him since that day. On page 39 you say that Gen- eral Kautz carried the works and penetrated the town of Peters- burg. His own report, now before me, shows that a small force which he drove from the intrenchments successfully opposed him, at a deep ravine intervening just before reaching the city. He never got beyond that ravine, and never was opposed by any of the troops lmnmng the intrenchments in front of the infantry. The alle- gations upon page 41 that I failed to state in my report the com- position of my command, the time at which I was ordered to act and move, the nearness of my column to the enemys works, how far in advance or in rear I was of General Rinks, are, I submit, all sufficiently answered in the report as corrected. It must be remem- bered that by your peremptory order I made the first report in two hours and fifty minutes. The statement of ~he force in Petersburg (1,500 men) given on page 43 of your communication, I have good reason to believe is in- correct. I acted upon information much later and more direct than any which could have been at your headquarters. Subsequent events have most fully commfirmed me in my opinion. It is intimated on page 45 that the infantry portion of my command ~3hould have kept up communication with the cavalry force. I submit that this was impossible, and that General Kautz, as having a mounted com- mand, and being a subordinate officer, should have kept up commu- nmcatmon wmth me. I touch upon the foregoing points not because they have any importance bearing upon the question at issue, but because they are mentioned with great stress in your communication to me. I sub- mit that they do not touch the merit of the case at all. The question is, did I disobey any order of yours? The facts are these: The ex- pedition to burn the brid es at Petersburg was planned by yourself. I, having expressed a wil~ingness to go, was intrusted with the com- mand. Darkness delayed the troops forty minutes in starting toward the enemys works. That delay was of no consequence whatever, for there was no special advantage in one hour for an attack over another. The troops advanced upon the fortifications at three points *See p.296. t See p. 295 Page 294 294 OPERATIONS IN SE. VA. AND N. C. (CHAP. XLVIII. and on three roads as directed. For some reason the cavalry attack on the left was delayed three hours, and did not take place for five hours after the infantry had driven the enemy inside their works along a portion of the front, and had accomplished everything ex- cept an actual open assault. I had no order to make an assault, and upon the unanimous opinions of the officers of rank under me, with which my own coincided, I detQrmined not to make it. I conceive that in so doing I only exercised the discretion left with me, and that I would have been justly held culpable in neglecting to exercise it. I believe that an open assault won d have resulted in great slaughter and probable defeat. Colonel Hawley, commanding all the white infantry, says, If but 400 men could have been in my front to oppose, with even a few pieces of artillery, they ought in all reason to have repulsed me. General Rinks, commanding the colored infantry, sent me word by Lieutenant Barnard, of my staff, that the enemy was much too strong for him in his front, and had been re-enforced by two regiments, and that it would be slaughter to attempt an assault. The truth of the matter, general, is simply this: No commander, except one of criminal rashness, would have ordered an assault on those works unless he ignored all the experi- ence of this war. Your general authority to expend a certain num- ber of lives to secure the destruction of certain property meant nothing really, for such things are not matters of barter. One word from my lips on that day would have caused the sacrifice, but in my opinion would not have secured the success. You say upon the sub- ject of an assault and its probable success that it was not my business and that you had ordered it. I must respectfully take issue with you on both these points. The first I will not discuss; the second I most emphatically deny, and again request a copy .of the order or the slightest proof of its ever having been given. For a proof of all the foregoing statements, I have convincing documentary evidence, and can at any time establish my entire innocence, not only of the grave charges you make, but of any neglect. I shall apply for no court of inquiry that will take me from active service until all reasonable sources of prompt redress fail. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, Q. A. GILLMORE, Major-General. CAMP OF HEADQUARTERS OF U. S. ARMIES, City Point, June 18, 1864. Maj. Gen. Q. A. GILLMORE, U. S. Volunteers: GENERAL: I was but once on that portion of the enemys lines in front of Petersburg approached by you on the 9th and could not at the time locate exactly the roads by which you approached. That part of the line appeared to me stronger than any other. Some parts might be considered through the difficulties of the ground as unas- sailable, and the portion of the line in question if properly manned could not be successfully assaulted unless with a great preponderance of numbers aided by a powerful artillery. I am, very respectfully, yours, most obediently, J. G. BARNARD, Brig. Gen. and Chief Engineer of Armies in the Field Page 295 CHAP. XLVIII.] ENGAGEMENT AT PETERSBURG. 295 A statement of verbal communication held between ]VEaJ. Gen. Q. A. Gilimore and Brig. Gen. E. W. Hinks on June 9, 1864. When General Hinks left the main column with his command I was ordered by General Gilimore to attach myself to his staff and to return as soon as he established his line, and report the shortest line of communication. At 8 a. in. General Rinks took a position in front of the enemys works and moved to the attack, bnt finding a battery on his right which could enfilade his line, he halted and ordered up his artillery, directing me to return to General Gillmore, and report that he could not advance until the battery on his right was taken. I returned by way of the road, but reported that possi- bly communication could be established across the country. About 9.15 a. m. General Gillmore directed me to return to General Rinks and state that Colonel Hawley was about to advance and would drive the enemy within their fortifications and hold them there, and that he (General Gillmore) wished General Hinks to do the same, and that if he saw an opportunity to assault with success he would do so. In this last General Rinks was to use his discretion and not to consider it an order to assault. This time I found a road leading almost direct to General Rinks headquarters. General Rinks re- plied that the enemy was much too strong for him, and that he had withdrawn his right to the edge of the woods, from which position he could hold the enemy within their works. He also directed me to inform General Gillmore that there was a full field battery of brass pieces in each of the batteries in his front; that re-enforce- ments of two regiments had been seen to enter the fortifications from Petersburg, and that it would be slaughter to attempt an assault, or words to that effect; also that he (General Rinks) had seen the works in front of Colonel Hawley, and considered theni formidable. About 11 a. m. I was again sent to General Rinks to inform him that the enemy was advancing a strong skirmish line, and that dis- position had been made to oppose them. In case of retreat General Rinks was to be governed by the report of Colonel Hawleys firing. At General Rinks headquarters I met one of his staff, who reported that General Rinks considered his present position unsafe, as his flanks were exposed, and that he was about to retire to a stronger position half a mile in the rear, but should still hold his present skirmish line commanding the enemys works. After an unsuccess- ful attempt to find General Rinks I returned to General Gillmores headquarters. At 1 p. m. General Gillmore directed me to request General Rinks to fall back to the clover-field, but not to enter the City Point road until Colonel Hawley had passed down with his command. This last was delivered at 1.30 p. m. At 1.40 p. m. Gen- eral Rinks was retiring. JAB. M. BARINARD, JR., First Lieutenant and Acting Aide-de-Gamp. HEADQUARTERS TENTH ARMY CORPS, In the Field, near Hatchers, Va., June 11, 1864. [Indorsement.] WASHINGTON, D. C., June 22, 1864. I certify that the verbal orders which I sent Brigadier-General Rinks, June 9, 1864, and the messages brought back from him by Lieutenant Barnard, acting aide-de-camp on my staff, are correctly given in the within statement to the best of my knowledge and belief. Q. A. GILLMORE, Major- General Page 296 296 OPERATIONS IN SE. VA. AND N. 0. [CRAP. XLVIII. Major-General GILLMORE: The works defending Petersburg I found very strong, and such as could not have beeu carried by assault had they been properly manned. In the works carried by my command on the 15th, one- fourth the assailing force, unless snrprised, should have made a pow- erful if not a successful defense. WM. F. SMITH, lliliajor- General. No. 3. Statement of Brig. Gen. Robert S. Foster, U. S. Army, Chief of Staff, Tenth. Army Corps. HEADQUARTERS TENTH ARMY CORPS, In the Field, Hatchers, Va., June 12, 1864. GENERAL: In answer to your inquiry for my opinion as to the propriety of having assaulted the position of the enemy in front of Petersburg, on the 9th of this month, I have the honor to state that I was a great portion of the time with Colonel Hawley (command- ing brigade) while he was in front of the enemys defenses. I made a careful survey of the position, and found it to be along a rising piece of ground, with redoubts, connected by rifle-pits. The ap- proaches to the position were in some places almost impassable, and in others the troops would be necessarily obliged to march to the assault over open ground, commanded by artillery in the redoubts. The troops were already under the fire of the enemys infantry and his artillery. Colonel Hawleys line was necessarily along their hue, and did not connect with General Hinks (to the left). After talking with Colonel Hawley, and carefully reviewing the position, I reported to you my opinion was against an assault from this point; as 1 believed then, and do now, that the chances were greatly in favor of its being unsuccessful. What I received and thought was fair information as to the strength of the enemy, also strengthened my objections to an assault, and in no event (in my opinion) could it have been accomplished without serious loss of life. I have the honor to be, very respectfully, your obedient servant, R. S. FOSTER, Brigadier-General of Volunteers and Chief of Staff. Maj. Gen. Q. A. GILLMORE, Commanding Tent/i Army Corps. No. 4. Statement of Lient. C~ol. Edward TV. Smith, Assistant Adjutant-Gen eral, U. S. Army. NEAR HATCHERS, VA., June 16, 1864. GENERAL: In compliance with your verbal request, I have the honor to submit the following statement: On the 9th instant I accompanied you as your assistant adjutant- general on the expedition against Petersburg. Your column started from the pontoon bridge at 3.40 a. m. I am certain of this fact, hay Page 297 CHAP. XLVIII.] ENGAGEMENT AT PETERSBURG. 29Z ing c.nsulted my watch just before mounting. At a little after 6 a. m. a small party of cavalry belonging to your escort, and marching a short distance in advance of the head of the column, was fired upon by the enemys pickets. Colonel Hawley deployed skirmishers from his colnmn and gradually drove the enemy back. This was on the City Point road, just this side of Jordans house. I have the honor to be, very respectfully, servant, Lieutenant- Colonel and Assistant Adjutant- General. Maj. Gen. Q. A. GILLMORE, U. S. Volunteers. No. 6. Statement of Brig. Gen. Alfred H. Terry, U. S. Army, commanding First Division. HEADQUARTERS FIRST DIvIsION, TENTH ARMY CORPS, In the Field, June 14, 1864. At the request of Major-General Gillmore, I make the following statement of facts: On the evening of the 8th instant I receiv~ed an order from him to detail one of the brigades of my division to form part of the expedi- tion to Petersburg, which was to take place the next day; 1,400 was also mentioned to me as the number of men that would be wanted. In accordance with this order, I detailed my Second Brigade, under command of Col. J. R. Hawley, of the Seventh Connecticut Volun- teers. General Gillinore directed me to send this force down the in- trenchments to the pontoon bridge across the Appomattox near Point of Rocks. I suggested to him that the moving of so large a body of men along the intrenchments might attract the notice of the en- emys outposts, and, as the movement was to be a secret one, that it would be better to send them by the road from Hatchers. After some conversation, General Gillmore assented to my suggestion, and Colonel Hawley was directed to take that road, and was furnished with a guide to conduct him over it. ALP. H. TERRY, Brigadier-General. No. 6. Report of Licut. Col. Samuel B. Taylor, Sixty-second Ohio Infantry, First Brigade. HDQRS. SIXTY-SECOND REGT. OHIO VETERAN VOLS., Point of Rocks, Va., June 12, 1864. SIR: I have the honor to make the following report of the oper- ations of my regiment while under the command of Colonel Hawley, commanding brigade: Being assigned to the left of your brigade, I moved forward about 4 a. in. the 9th instant. The enemys pickets being driven in about 8.30 a. in., I was ordered forward as a reserve to the skirmish line Page 298 298 OPERATIONS IN SE. VA. AND N. C. [CHAP. XLVIII. I took up a position about 600 yards in their rear, and formed line of battle. Remained in this position until 11 a~ in., when I was ordered to move some 500 yards to the rear and form line of battle, for the purpose of drawing in the skirmishers. After the line of skirmish- ers had passed through, I was ordered to move my regiment to the rear. After marching about I mile, I was ordered to file into the field for the purpose of getting dinner. Took up the line of march about 1 p. in., my regiment bringing up the rear of the infantry. Moved steadily forward to the pontoon, where I arrived a few minutes before 6 p. in., and on being ordered by the general commanding, I moved my regiment to its old camp, where I arrived at 6.15 p. in. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, S. B. TAYLOR, Lieutenant- Golonel, Commanding Regiment. Lient. E. L. MOORE Acting Assistant Adjutant- General. No. 7. Report of Col. Joseph R. Hawley, Seventh Connecticut Infantry, commanding Second Brigade. HDQRS. SECOND BRIG., FIRST DIV., TENTH CORPS, Bermuda Hundred Intrenchments, Va., June 10, 1864. SIR: I have the honor to submit the following report of the part taken by my command in the expedition toward Petersburg on the 9th instant That command consisted of my own brigade, the Seventh New Hampshire, Col. Joseph C. Abbott; Third New Hampshire, Lient. Col. Josiah I. Plimpton commanding; Sixth Connecticut, Lient. Col. Lorenzo Meeker commanding, and the Seventh Connecticut, Capt. Theodore Bacon commanding, numbering about 1,500 rifles. Upon crossing the Appomattox I found the Sixty-second Ohio Vol- unteers, Lient. Col. Samuel B. Taylor commanding, which had been ordered to report to me for the day. Its numbers have not been given, but I judge that it had at least 450 men. Lient. J. P. Sanger, Battery D, First U. S. Artillery, reported to me there also with four guns, two 3-inch rifles, and two light 12-pounders. My orders were to be ready to march at 9 p. m. on the 8th, with two days cooked rations. Three of the regiments were already there on their color lines. The Seventh New Hampshire was a little late, having got in late from outpost duty, but it soon after reported ready. Twice during the evening I sent a request for a guide to the pontoon bridge, my command being entirely unacquainted with the country toward the Appomnattox. At about 10.30 orders came from Brig- adier-General Terry to move my brigade across the Appomattox, assume command there of the Sixty-second Ohio and Lieutenant Sangers artillery, and await orders. I was directed to call at Major- General Butlers headquarters for a guide to the pontoon bridge, and to retain the orderly bringing the dispatch as a guide to those quarters. I ordered the brigade started immediately, saw it in mo- tion, and leaving two aides with it with directions (as I was ordered) to brimig it to Major-General Gillmores quarters, I rode on an Page 299 CHAP. XLVIII.] ENGAGEMENT AT PETERSBURG. 299 reported to Brigadier-General Foster, chief of staff, Tenth Corps. I inquired of him as to the roads, and he gave me a cavalryman who had, as orderly, almost daily gone (as the man said) to Major- General Butlers or the Point of Rocks. I received no further orders than those I have recounted. The head of my column appearing amid having halted possibly five minntes, 1 started it and led it with my staff and the guides, and proceeded on the road toward Bermuda Hundred Landing some distance, and then turned to the right, fol- lowing the telegraph line. The guides insisted that they were upon the right road, but it was almost impassable at certain points, com- pelling the men to go into mnd and water 1 or 2 feet deep. I went ahead wit i one of the g.uides, reached open couiitry near the Point of Rocks, and my guide and I being utterly ignorant of the proper course, I dispatched him to Major-General Butler for information. When he returned I gave the information to Colonel Spear, who, with his regiment of cavalry, was also at a loss for his road. The head of my column then appeared, and I found two of Major-General Butlers staff, who had met it. The colunin had opened wide gaps owing to the horrible condition of the road and some delay occurred in closing it up. The head crossed the Appomattox after 2 a. m. of the 9th, the rear crossed about 3. Going up the hill, and directing that the brigade should do the same, I found the Sixty-second Ohio and themi reported to Major- General Gillmore in the house on the hill-side. Ascertaiiiiiig my place in the column, and waiting for some cavalry and artillery forces to come up the hill, I started at the proper time. Marching perhaps half a mile, I saw a column of colored troops marching on a road converging toward ours. I told the leading officer my orders and he fell behind me. We moved as the column moved, until we diverged from the other forces and followed the geiieral course of the City Point railroad toward Petersburg, Major-General Gillmore and staff and a detachment of the Fourth Massachusetts Cavalry led the way. Pickets or vedettes were encoiXutered, but the infantry was not called for until we neared a house called A. Jordans, 1 am told, just beyond which our road turning to the right crossed the rail- road, descending to a broad plain diversified with woods, and with roads skirted by hedges, and crossed in various directions by ditches lined with bushes. At Jordans a smart skirmishing fire started, a cav- alryman was killed, and, to dislodge the enemy, I deployed a company of the Seventh Connecticut, quickly sending another to its left, and throwing my leading regiment, the Seventh New Hampshire, into line of battle and the remainder of the Seventh Connecticut behind it in column by company (it was organized as six companies only), closed en masse. The land in front was exceedingly rough for some distance. My skirmishers steadily drove the rebels, exchanging fre- quent shots. Crossing the railroad a portion of my colunin, turn- ing to the right, went down into the plain, while the rest I left on the commamiding ground near Jordans, to take care of any force com- ing on the line of the railroad. The country was wholly new to me. I kiiew nothing whatever of the defenses of Petersburg, or of the forces there, except a report that they were very light, while it was considered a point vital to the daily existence of the rebellion, and within a few hours reach of 100,000 rebels. I was ordered to push the rebel skirmishers who appeared on the plain. I did so as rapidly as possible~ Captain Richmond, of the Fourth Massachusetts Cav- alry, materially assisting me in dislodging them fromu a house an Page 300 .300 OPERATIONS IN SE. VA. AND N. C. [CHAP. XLVI1I. its buildings on the plain, and otherwise. The road first tending toward the Appomattox then turned to the left, apparently going toward Petersburg, which could be plainly seen from the higher ground. I went as far on the plain as was at all safe, even having four regiments of my command and a section of artillery down there, while the woody region down the railroad had not been re- connoitered. As we first went down upon the plain, a shot from an unseen field piece passed far over our heads. I had only sent a com- pany of the Sixth Connecticut, under Captain Nichols, to move down that road, skirmishing on the high ground. Constantly in- forming the chief of staff, General Foster, of all that took place, and everything that my vigilant skirmishers told me, he ordered me to send the Third New Hampshire, under Lieutenant-Colonel Plimp- ton, along the railroad in the woods, with his right touching that road. I also sent one more company of the Sixth Connecticut to strengthen Captain Nichols, and begged General Foster to supervise the movement along the railroad, as I could not take care of that and my four regiments, and their skirmishers on the plain. The orders were to simulate an attack. The skirmishers on the plain changed their direction to the left, to conform to the changed course of the road, and, being strengthened, nearly enough connected with those of Lieutenant-Colonel Plimpton and Captain Nichols. Those officers advanced to within 200 or 300 yards of a strong earth-work on the left of the railroad, the light artillery in which annoyed my forces on the plain, throwing at times far over them at our squads of cavalry, and again throwing canister at our skirmishers there. I was ordered to make no unnecessary exposure of my men, but to crowd the enemy whenever there was opportunity. Lieutenant- Colonel Plimpton and Captain Nichols were protected by the nature of the ground aiid the woods. From the righto f my line, as well as from their position, the rebel works were plainly visible. To assault it from the plain was impracticable; the ground was bad and the open approach exposed to the fire of one if not both of the works on its left, between it and the Appomattox, but retired considerably toward the city. Apparently, the practicable approach was on the easterly or southerly side of the railroad, where Lieutenant-Colonel Plimpton was. Before assaulting there I should have withdrawn my forces from the plain, leaving, say, perhaps one regiment to guard my right flank against approaches from that road, detained one regi- ment as reserve between Jordans and the work, and assaulted with the remaining three. Nothing remained but for me to receive orders for and execute such a movement. I was as near as there was any use in going without assaulting, and the work on the rail- road seemed to me by all means the one to be carried first. It was manned; forces beyond it and nearer Petersburg could be seen, two or three pieces of artillery had fired from it, and had we succeeded in taking it there would still have been three creeks and 2 miles travel between us and any important point in Petersburg. Brisk firing was heard during the forenoon on our left, caused, as I sup- pose, by General links column. Holding my ground, I waited for orders. What information I could [get] was promptly communi- cated to my commanding officer. About 1 oclock, I think, I received orders to withdraw. I called in the scattered cavalry, ordered the Seventh Connecticut skirmishers to come together in the road, and to act as a rear guard, and directed Lieutenant-Colon~l Plimpton and Captain Nichols to hold fast until I could get up from the plain int Page 301 CHAP. XLVIII.] ENGAGEMENT AT PETERSBURG. 301. the road in rear of them. I put the Sixty-second Ohio in line of battle on the right of Jordans house, and Lieutenant Sangers artillery was unlimbered just in the rear. Moving leisurely back, I heard distant artillery and musketry firing in the southeast. When the three regiments had passed the Sixty-second, I put one of them in line and notified Lieutenant-Colonel Plimpton and Captain Nichols to withdraw. When all but a rear guard of 20 cavalry- men had passed the Sixty-second Ohio, that regiment filed into the road and the artillery limbered up. Falling back a mile or less from Jordans, by order from Major-General Gilimore, the brigade stacked arms, rested an hour, and ate dinner. Its next move brought it to the railroad, where it halted another hour; thence it moved slowly, reaching the Appomattox just before sunset, and crossed and returned to camp. Officers and men conducted themselves to my satisfaction, with the trifling exception of half a dozen men as usual, stragglers or marauders. I have been exceedingly minute for reasons which need not be mentioned. I trust that I have not been too proli~. The casualties of the day were only 10. I have the honor to be, very respectfully, your obedient servant, JOS. R. HAWLEY, Colonel Seventh Connecticut, Commanding Brigade. Lient. Col. E. W. SMITH, Assistant Adjutant-General, Tenth Corps. ADDENDA. HDQRS. SECOND BRIG., FIRST Div., 10TH ARMY CORPS, Bermuda Hundred Intrenchments, Va., June 12, 1864. Major-General GILLMORE, Commanding Tenth Army Corps: SIR: In response to a verbal request from you to state the opinion held by me while before the defensive works of Petersburg, on the 9th, and now, as to the practicability of an assault upon those works, I have the honor to reply as follows: In responding briefly as required, it will be impossible to give the r~asons and arguments, or sketches of the grouiid to illustrate and. sustain the opinion. I only give the opinion itself. My own bri- gade consists of the Third and Seventh New Hampshire, and Sixth and Seventh Connecticut Volunteers, each of which has had experi- ence in the most deadly assaults. The Sixty-second Ohio was for the day under my command. Such was the ground, and the extent of it covered by my 2,000 men, that I could not see everything my- self, but was obliged, as everybody is under such circumstances, to take the facts given by my officers and men skirmishing, and by the different regimental commanders from their different points of view. I did, however, take a fair look at the main rebel work on its west side; and for the east side, my left, where I could not go and keep control of four of my five regiments, I relied upon Lieutenant-Col- onel Plimpton, commanding Third New Hampshire Volunteers, whose unhesitating bravery in desperate assaults and on the open field make his authority valuable. Coloiiel Abbott, Seventh New Hampshire, on my right (only skirmishers were beyond him), gave testimony, concurring with all the rest. I am bound to suppos Page 302 302 OPERATIONS IN SE. VA. AND N. C. [CHAP. xLvm. that such works, covering a point almost perfectly vital to the rebel- lion, were not left without defenders; indeed we saw them, and heard from them. It was my deliberate opinion then, and is now, that an assault upon the formidable work near the railroad (and it would have been contrary to all sound rules to leave that behind or dodge it) promised to be a most murderous affair, with the odds largely against us. I knew nothing of the real forces of the enemy within the town. It was evident that they were on the alert. I could not extend far enough on the right to drive into town all their sharp- shooters. I knew not what force might be over on the right toward the Appomattox, and I should not have dared to put all my force into one assault. Then, if but 400 could have been in my front to oppose, with even a few pieces of artillery, they ought in all reason to have repulsed me. That main work is on high ground, and rises well above that even, and a large portion of the ground about it is almost impassable. My left, where an assault would have been made, was as near as it ought to be before making a final disposition for a charge. Nothing remained to do but to assault. What can be said now after the event, and with advantages for knowing per- haps fully the foices and movements of the enemy inside, I do not know; but of this I am as well convinced as ever, I was right in thinking that an assault was not advisable. Had we carried that work, we should still have had 2 miles to go to reach the railroad bridge, the chief object in view I suppose, with still further defenses, troops (in sight), and creeks and houses in our way, and further- more without the expectation of any more aid, and with the inten- tion of returning that night to Bermuda Hundred. Had we been ordered to storm the works, we should have gone up of course, and adapting ourselves to the circumstances, should have mad~e the fight as savage, short, and sharp as possible. I am glad, however, that what I call better counsels prevailed. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, JOS. R. HAWLEY, Colonel Seventh Connecticut, Commanding Brigade. No. 8. Report of Lieut. Col. Lorenzo Meeker, Sixth Connecticut Infantry. HDQRS. SIXTH REGIMENT CONNECTICUT VOLUNTEERS, Bermuda Hundred, Va., June ii, 1864. SIR: I have the honor to submit the following report concerning the part taken by this regiment in the reconnaissance toward Peters- burg, Va., June 9, 1864: About 11 p. m. the 8th instant the regiment moved from its camp in rear of the intrenchments at Bermuda Hundred, marched in a circuitous route to Point of Rocks, and crossed the Appomattox River about 2 oclock the 9th instant. Halted on the south side of the river until about sunrise, when we commenced our line of march toward Petersburg. With the exception of Companies D and G, the regiment was not actively engaged, acting only as a support to the advanced lines. About 8.30 a. m. Company D, being detached from the regiment, advanced by orders of Col. J. R. Hawley, com- manding brigade, along th~ City Point railroad in the direction o Page 303 CHAP. XLVIII.] ENGAGEMENT AT PETERSBURG. 303 Petersburg, a distance of about 600 yards, and within about 200 yards of the enemys battery. At 9 a. m. the enemys line of skir- mishers was observed by this company to fall back out of the woods on our right, being driven by our forces, and establish their line in an open wheat-field. Shortly afterward they (the enemy) were re-enforced by about 50 men from Petersburg. About 10 a. m. Com- pany G was sent to support Company D, and both companies en- gaged the enemys line of skirmishers until ordered to fall back. The companies rejoined the regiment about 1 p. m. and with it returned to camp. I am, sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant. LORENZO MEEKER, Lieut. Col., Comdg. Sixth Connecticut Volunteers. Lient. E. LEWIS MOORE, Acting Assistant Adjutant-General, Second Brigade. No. 9. Report of Capt. Theodore Bacon, Seventh c1onnecticut Infantry. HEADQUARTERS SEVENTH CONNECTICUT VOLUNTEERS, Near Bermuda Hundred, Va., June 12, 1864. SIR: This regiment numbering 14 officers and 370 men, left camp at 11 p. m. Wednesday, June 8. in light marching order and with two days rations. About 2 oclock in the morning of the 9th we crossed the pontoon bridge over the Appomattox and lay down in line, just be- yond the bridge, until shortly after daylight. With the rest of the col- umn, under Colonel Hawleys command, we then moved forward to- ward Petersburg, immediately following the Seventh New Hamp- shire, which had the advance. About 8 oclock, having moved slowly on account of the condition of the roads, the cavalry in our front came upon the enemys outposts. The first of the six companies into which this battalion was temporarily organized, under Lieutenant Wildman, was at once sent to the front and deployed as skirmishers, followed almost immediately by the second company, Captain Townsend; the rest of the battalion was formed into column of companies closed in mass. The enemys skirmishers being driven back, a farther advance of nearly a mile was made by several successive movements, this regi- ment still following the Seventh New Hampshire by the flank in the road. At the farthest point reached the regiment lay in the road for two hours or more, or until noon, under such cover as could be found from the enemys shells, which toward the end were thrown at us with considerable accuracy, the first two companies meanwhile en- gaging the enemys skirmishers quite sharply. About noon, in obedience to orders from the brigade commander, my regiment was withdrawn by the left flank, following the Sixth Connecticut and pre- ceding the Seventh New Hampshire. The movement in retreat was from this point by successive lines, this regiment alternating with the others in the column. At the first position, nearly a mile to the rear at which this regiment came into line, the two companies of skirmishers (which had been re-enforced toward the last by about 20 men from the third company) rejoined us and took their place in line. At 2 p. m. a halt of an hour was made for, rest and dinner. About 6 the bridge over the Appomattox was reached and crossed Page 304 304 OPERATIONS IN SE. VA. AND N. C. [Ca~.x~. XLVIII. and the regiment went into camp, greatly exhausted by fatigue and want of sleep, between 8 and 9 oclock. The short list* of casualties appended shows that the labor and danger of the day fell especially upon the detachment of skirmishers. I have the honor to be, very respectfully, your obedient servant, THEO: BACON, Captain, Comdg. Seventh Connecticut Volunteers. Lieut. E. LEWIS MOORE, Acting Assistant Adjutant- General, Second Brigade. ADDENDA. HEADQUARTERS SEVENTH CONNECTICUT VOLUNTEERS, Near Bermuda Hundred, Va., June 12, 1864. Col. J. R. HAWLEY, Commanding Second Brigade: COLONEL: In reply to a verbal request from you for an expression of my opinion upon the subject, I do not hesitate to say that an assault upon the enemys works before Petersburg, by the force under your command, on the 9th instant, would have seemed to me in the highest degree unwise; in fact, considering the ample notice which the enemy had of our movementmany hours noticeby the time our lines could have been formed for an assault, such an attempt would have afforded, at the best, only the most desperate chances of success. I am, colonel, very respectfully, your obedient servant, THEG. BACON, Captain, Comdg. Seventh Connecticut Volunteers. No. 10. Statement of Lieut. Col. Josiah I. Plimpton, Third New Hampshire Infantry. HDQRS. THIRD NEW HAMPSHIRE VOLUNTEERS, Bermuda Hundred, Va., June 12, 1864. SIR: Having been verbally requested by you to give my Opinion of the practicability of storming the works of the enemy around Petersburg, I have the honor to state that on the 9th instant my regiment first occupied a position in the edge of a piece of woods near the open field on the north of the City Point and Petersburg Railroad, and afterward moved to a high ridge on the south of the above railroad, and in front of and about 200 yards from a strong re- doubt of the enemy. From these positions I had a good opportunity to see the town (about 1-~ miles distant) and the enemy s lines. I consider the lines of works quite strong and capable of being held by a small force against large numbers, the redoubts and batteries being so situated as to rake all the ground by which we could ap- proach the town so far as I could see. It is my opinion that our forces on the 9th instant were entirely too small to attempt to enter the town. J. I. PLIMPTON, Lient. Col., Comdg. Third New Hampshire Volunteers. Col. J. R. HAWLEY, ~iJommanding Second Brigade. * Not found Page 305 CHAP. XLVIII.] ENGAGEMENT AT PETERSBURG. 3O~ No. 11. Report of Gol. Joseph C. Abbott, Seventh New Hampshire Infantry. HDQRS. SEVENTH NEW HAMPSHIRE VOLUNTEERS, Bermuda Hundred, Va., June 10, 1864. SIR: I have the honor to submit the following report of the part taken by my regiment in the reconnaissance of the 9th instant: I moved from camp at abdut 10 p. in. of the 8th instant, and, oc- cupying the right of Hawleys brigade, marched toward the Ap- pomattox. I reached and crossed the pontoon bridge at a little before 3 a. ni. of the 9th, when a halt was ordered. At about 4 a. m. the march was resumed on the road toward Petersburg. Other troops were in advance of me. Nothing worthy of note occurred until the column had advanced about 5 miles, when the cavalry, which was in advance, encountered the enemys pickets. This was not far from 7 a. in. By order of Colonel Hawley, my regiment was deployed in line of battle, and, preceded by skirmishers from the Seventh Connecticut Volunteers, advanced across an open field. The enemys skirmishers retired, and by order of Colonel Hawley I re- turned my regiment to the road, and proceeded through a belt of woods across the Petersburg and City Point Railroad, down a slight ravine, and caine into an open meadow which extended for half a mile on the right of the road, while on the left of the road was partly open field and partly wood. The road here took a southerly direction. I was first directed by Colonel Hawley to form a line of battle on each side of the road and at right angles with it, which I did, but soon after, by his order, returned to the road again, still fol- lowing the skirmishers. After passing about 500 yards from the edge of the woods, I was ordered to halt. At the point where I halted there was thick woods on the left, and the meadow above mentioned on the right of th~ road. This position I occupied until about 12 in. On the left of the road, at a distance of about 500 yards, was an earth-work, from which spherical case-shot and canister were occasionally thrown, but with little effect. At about 12 in., receiv- ing the order to retire, I proceeded back on the road, followed by the skirmishers. I halted a short time where the enemys pickets were first encountered, and then with several halts returned to the Appomattox. I arrived at the bridge at about 7 p. in. After a brief halt at this point I crossed and returned to camp, where I arrived about 8p. in. My casualties in the reconnaissance were, wounded, 2. I am, lieutenant, very respectfully, JOSEPH C. ABBOTT, Colonel Seventh New Hampshire Volunteers. Lient. E. LEWIS MOORE, Acting Assistant A6~jutant- General. ADDENDA. HDQRS. SEVENTH NEW HAMPSHIRE VOLUNTERS, Bermuda Hundred, Va., June 12, 1864. Col. JOSEPH R. HAWLEY, Seventh Connecticut Vols., Comdg. Second Brigade: COLONEL: In reply to your request, made at the suggestion of Major-General Gillmore, that I would give an oDinion as to the propriety of an assault on the enemys work on the Petersburg and City Point Railroad, encountered by your brigade on the 9th instant, 20 R RWOL XXXvI, PT I Page 306 306 OPERATIONS IN SE. VA. AND N. C. [CHAP. XLVIII. I have the honor to state that the position which I occnpied was on the right (northward and westward) of the work, and was not such as enabled me to make a very close examination of it; that I did, however, make such an examination as I was able, and certain things became evident, viz, that the work was high, and difficult of ap- proach, on account of the nature of the ground, the obstructions, and the steepness of the ascent; and that it was strongly manned. While I supposed at the time that an assault was to be attempted, my opinion was that it must be done at great hazard and sacrifice, and probably with disastrous results. This opinion was formed without any fur- ther information in regard to the strength of the work, its armament, and the force within it, than was apparent to any one from the point which I occupied; but I have receiyed no information since which has led me to change that opinion. I am, colonel, very respectfully, JOSEPH C. ABBOTT, Colonel Seventh New Hampshire l7olunteers. No. 12. Report of Brig. Gem. Edward W. Kinks, U. S. Army, commanding Third Division, Eighteenth Army Corps. HEADQUARTERS HuNKS DIVISION, ~iiIity Point, Va., June 10, 1864. MAJOR: I have the honor to submit the following report of oper- ations under the order of Major-General Butler, dated June 8, 1864, 3 p.m.(C opy appended, marked A) :* Immediately after dark I moved two regiments1,300 men of my commandto the vicinity of Broadway, and repaired to the pon- toon bridge at about 9 oclock, where I received the dispatch from Major-General Butler, dated June 8, 1864, lip. m. (Copy appended, marked B.) t At about 2.45 a. m. of June 9 General Gilimore arrived at the pontoon bridge, and at 3.30 a. in., his troops having all crossed, I returned to Copsas, where one of my regiments was bivouacked, and awaited the arrival of the rest of the column. At about 5 oclock I marched from Copsas, closely following the advance of General Kautz, and on arriving at Baileys received an order from General Gilimore, dated June 9, 5 a. m. (Copy appended, marked C.) ~ I asked General Gilimore if it was the intention to hold on to the enemys works as long as possible at any rate, and he answered me, No; unless we take them within an hour it will be useless to attempt it, and you must use your discretion in the attack. I imme- diately moved forward, understanding that General Gillmore was to move to the right of Baileys, toward the Appomnattox, and then we were to make co-operative attacks. A staff officer of General Gill- more accompanied me to see my forces in position, and then report to the general. A~ about 7 a. m. the 9th instant I crossed Baileys Creek, on the Jordans Point road, and drove the enemys pickets into his works in Jordans and Friends fields, deploying my forces at Ruflins house and advancing to the crest of the height, when, finding that my line was in advance of the enemys works upon the right, some 600 yards distant, and would be exposed to a flank fire, I attempted to get a battery into position to engage the work either * See Part III, p. 707. 1 Not found as an inclosure. ~ See Gilirnores report, p. 288 Page 307 CRAP. XLVIII] ENGAGEMENT AT PETERSBURG. 307 upon right or left, and sent General Gillmore word that I was in position, that my right flank was advanced beyond the enemys works and exposed to an enfilading fire, and that I would advance as soon as I could get my battery to bear upon some point of the enemys line. Finding it impossible to bring the battery into action unless I left it without a support, and exposed to a cross-fire, I sent it back to Ruffins house, and advanced some 50 yards farther with my infantry. Hearing no firing on my right, where I expected a co-operative attack, I now notified General Gillmore that the enemy was in considerable force in the works in my front, which were too strong to be carried by assault with the troops at my disposal for the purpose, as I was exposed to a fire from the works on my right, and should be obliged to protect my flank by sending back part of my force, and received from him a verbal dispatch that he should immediately drive the enemy into his works and hold him there, whereupon I retained my position, hoping that the enemys works would be engaged on my right and an opportunity given me to go in. It was now about 10 a. m. Shortly afterward I was notified by General Gillmore that the enemy was advancing in a strong line against his left, which, upon the explanation of his staff officer, I found to be in the rear of my line, in the swamp. At about 12 oclock I was notified that General Gillmores fores were withdraw- ing, and thereupon moved my artillery and reserve across Baileys Creek to Bryants house. At 1 p. in., on an order from General Gill- more, I withdrew my line from front of the enemys works to Bry- ants, and at about 2 oclock was ordered to return to Baileys house, where I joined the column of General Gillmore. I am, major, very respectfully, your obedient servant, EDW. W. HINKS, Brigadier-General, U. S. Volunteers. Maj. R. S. DAVIs, A. A. G., Dept. of Virginia and North Carolina. ADDENDA. HDQRS. lINKS DIVISION, EIGHTEENTH ARMY CORPS, In the Field, near Petersburg, June 22, 1864. Maj. Gen. Q. A. GILLMORE: DEAR SIR: I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of a com- munication from you in the following words, to wit: HATCHERS, VA., June 18, 1864. Brig. Gen. E. W. HINKS: DEAR SIR: When before the defenses of Petersburg, on the 9th instant, your opinion was decidedly adverse to making an assault with the force you had (some 1,200 or 1,300 men). In your report of the operations of that day you give expres- sion to similar views. Will you obJige me by stating whether, now that those works are in your possession, you are confirmed in the opinion entertained on the 9th, and also, in case the works in our front had been carried by an assault on that day, whether in your opinion the city could have been taken on that day? Very respectfully, your obedient servant, Q. A. GILLMORE, Major-General. And respectfully inform you, in reply, I am now confirmed in the opinion expressed to you on the 9th instant, and repeated in my re- port of the operations of that day, which opinion was decidedly adverse to making an assault with the force I had (some 1,200 o Page 308 308 OPERATIONS IN SE. VA. AND N. C. [C~. XLVIII. 1,300 men). The works are very much stronger than I had ally idea of at that time, and are continued along almost all the interval to Petersburg, rendering it very doubtful whether the city could have been taken even had we succeeded in cam y lug the first line. Fifteen hundred men in these works ought t~ have held in check at least 7,500 men assaulting from this front. EDW. W. lINKS, Brigadier- General, U. S. Volunteers. No. 13. Report of Brig. Gem. August V. Kautz, U. S. Army, commanding Cavalry Division. HEADQUARTERS CAVALRY DIVISION, In the Field, near Point of Rocks; June 11, 1864. SIR: I have the honor to submit the following report of the oper- ations of the cavalry of my command, on the 9th instant, against Petersburg; also the reports of regimental and brigade commanders: In obedience to instructions previously received, the command, consisting of portions of the Eleventh and Fifth Pennsylvania and First District of Columbia Cavalry, and a section of the Eighth New York Battery, about 1,300 men in all, commenced moving from camp between 11 and 12 oclock the night previous. The infantry of General Gillmores command, which should have preceded the cavalry, was delayed, and a portion of the cavalry also, in conse- quence, did not get across the Appomattox River until daylight. The cavalry then took the advance, marching south to the City Point road, where we captured 3 of the enemys pickets, about 10 miles out from their intrenchments. The march was continued on roads nearly parallel to the enemys works to the Jordans Point, Prince George, and Norfolk and Petersburg roads. Near the Prince George road we were delayed in driving Colonel Taliaferro 5 (Sixty-second Georgia Cavalry) [Seventh Confederate Cavalry] regiment out of their camp near their intrenchments, as skir- mishers of his command were annoying the column. This regi- ment was reported by several prisoners that we captured to be between 300 and 400 strong. The march was continued to the Jerusalem plank road, which we struck at a point about 4 miles from the intrenchments. The circuit p roved greater than I ex- pected, and we did not reach the enemys lines until midday, march- ing continuously, as we were meeting the enemys pickets on every road and they all retreated to a common center, except 4 or S that we captured. The enemy had the advantage of knowing our move- ments. On reaching the enemys lines, it was evident that they were not strongly defended. The force seemed about 200 strong, with one piece of artillery. The First District of Columbia Cavalry were dis- mounted and deployed as skirmishers with a portion of the Eleventh Pennsylvania Cavalry on the right of the road. The Fifth Pennsyl- vania Cavalry (mounted) moved forward in line on the works on the left to the intrenchments, where they dismounted and fired from the parapet. In about an hour we had carried the works and killed, wounded, or captured almost the entire force, with the piece of artil- lery and caisson. As soon as a squadron or two could be mounted we moved on to- ward town. A deep ravine intervening just before reaching the city Page 309 CHAP. XLVIII.] ENGAGEMENT AT PETERSBURG. 309 and no enemy being visible, the a(lvance was ordered to proceed into the city. On reaching the bottom of the ravine four pieces of artil- lery and several hundred muskets suddenly opened from the opposite crest, from such an elevation, however, that they overshot us. No one apparently was injured. Before the second volley opened the advance had fallen back under cover. The prospect of entering the city was here suddenly defeated, for while I thought it possible that the enemy was at that moment not very strong, it was strong enough to delay me an hour or two in the commanding position they held. By that time they could be re-enforced. I could hear nothing of General Gillmores command; no firing could be heard in the direc- tion of City Point, and I felt certain that his forces had retired. I therefore ordered the command to fall back, and as we retired the enemy opened from our right at long range with one piece of artil- lery and some musketry. Before leaving the iutrenchments the enemys camp of forty or fifty tents and some huts were burned, and also a large house with some stores and ammunition. We moved off and returned by the route we came and were not pursued or molested after getting on the road. We captured altogether 42 prisoners. Some of the officers who had better opportunity of knowing report the enemys killed quite large. Quite a number of their wounded were left behind for want of transportation. The force that held the intrenchments were mostly residents of Petersburg and Prince George County, belonging to the second-class reserves. The loss of one gun and two carriages was not reported to me until we had retired, and I know nothing of the circumstances except what is contained in Lieu- tenant Mortons report. Had I known it in time I am satisfied that the gun at least would have been saved. The conduct of the men on this expedition was even better than I expected, for while I have great confidence in them as cavalry, I did not know what they would do in assaulting intrenchments. The Eleventh Pennsylvania had the advance and as usual were constantly capturing the enemys pickets, for which they seem to possess a great superiority. The First District of Columbia was the first within the intrenchments and pushed the enemy from the right to the left and some of them were the first to lay hand on the gun captured in front of the Fifth Pennsylvania Cavalry. The Fifth moved up in line on the works in fine order, dismounted, and took position on the parapet. The officers serving on my staff who were with me, Doctor Rivers, Major Wetherill, Captain Asch, and Lieutenant Allis were, as before, of the greatest service to the command. The following is a summary of the killed, wounded, and miss- ing: Troops. Killed. Wounded. Missing. TotaL 1st District of Columbia Cavalry 6 6 3d New York Cavalry 1 1 11th Pennsylvania Cavalry 3 7 14 5th Pennsylvania Cavalry 1 12 2 15 Total 4 26 6 36 Very respectfully, your obedient servant, AUGUST V. KAUTZ, Brigadier-General of Volunteer8, Chief of Gavairy. Maj. R. S. DAvIs, A. A. G., Dept. of Virginia and North Garolina Page 310 310 OPERATIONS IN SE. VA. AND N. C. [CHAP. XLVIII. No. 14. Report of Lieut. Col. Everton J. Conger, First District of Columbia Cavalry, First Brigade. HDQRS. FIRST DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA CAVALRY, In the Field, June Li, 1864. GENERAL: I have the honor to forward the following as the re- port of the First Regiment District of Columbia Cavalry on the recent march to Petersburg, Va. Received instructions in person from the general commanding division to be in readiness to march at 12 midnight, June 8, 1864. Crossed the Appomattox on pontoon bridge and joined the rear of the column, as per order of march. By a circuitous and unknown route, arrived at the first line of intrenchments for the defense of Petersburg at 12 m. June 9, 1864, and found the enemy displayed in some force behind a long line of earth-works supported by artillery. By order of the general commanding moved forward two squadrons and deployed on our right. This force turned the left of the enemys position, drove them to the rear and right of the works across the pike; was here supported by the thfrd squadron ordered to the front by the general. Passing to the enemys left we cap- tured 1 brass 12-pounder howitzer and 35 prisoners, including 4 com- missioned officers, as per verbal receipt of the officer in charge of provost guard, to whom they were turned over. By actual count of officers, from 30 to 40 of the enemy were killed and some 15 were wounded and lying on the ground on our right of the pike. One captain and 2 lieutenants were among the killed. The officer who had command on the extreme right reports that man y dead and wounded were lying in the rear of the camp (which was burned) and not included in the above, also an adjutant (G. G. Johnson) and some dead and wounded were on the left of the p ike. Before leaving the ground I ordered a house on the left of the enemys works to be burned. In it were found 72 boxes spherical case or shell and 20 boxes small-arm ammunition. The house was used as defense and headquarters of the enemy. It is unnecessary to enumerate the names of officers and men for gallant conduct, when all did well. Returning, brought up the rear of the column and arrived at our old camp at 12 midnight. The following is a list of the casualties : * I am, general, very respectfully, your obedient servant, E. J. CONGER, [Brig. Gen. A. ~. KAUTZ.] Lieutenant-Colonel, Commanding. No. 16. Report of Vol. Samuel P. Spear, Eleventh Pennsylvania Cavalry, commanding Second Brigade. HEADQUARTERS SECOND CAVALRY BRIGADE, In the Field, June 11, 1864. CAPTAIN: I have the honor to make the following report concern- ing the operations of my brigade during the expedition to Peters- burg on the 9th instant: Pursuant to instructions from division headquarters, my brigade, *Non,jual list (omitted) shows 2 officers and 4 men wounded Page 311 CHAP. XLVIII.] ENGAGEMENT AT PETERSBURG. 311 consisting of the Eleventh Pennsylvania Cavalry, 640 men, two mountain howitzers, commanded by Lient. Col. George Stetzel, and the Fifth Pennsylvania Cavalry, 450 men and two howitzers, com- manded by Major Kleinz, left camp at 11.30 p. m. on 8th instant, crossed the pontoon bridge over the Appomattox, and marched for- ward about 2 miles. There halted until 4.30 a. m. on the 9th, when I took the line of march toward the Jordans Point road, the Eleventh Pennsylvania Cavalry in advance. The advance guard soon came upon and charged the enemys pickets, capturing 4 of them, 2 being wounded. I then marched on to the above-named road, and out in the direction of the Petersburg plank road. When within 7 miles of the plank road the advance was again fired upon by the enemy. I ordered the carbineers of the Eleventh to dismount an dskirmish the woods to the front, and two squadrons of the Fifth to the right and left. The enemy opened upon the Fifth with howitzers. One squadron from that regiment charged them, driving them from their camp into in- trenchments. In the flight they left arms, horse equipments, and clothing in considerable quantity, and which we destroyed. The front being cleared by the Eleventh, the command was mounted and pro- ceeded on the route. On approaching the ~ orfolk and Petersburg Railroad, the advance guard again came upon the enemys pickets, charged them and wounded 1 mortally. The remainder made their escape to the woods. On reaching the plank road at 10.30 a. in., ~ miles from Petersburg, I received instructions from the general command- ing to march in the direction of Petersburg. I did so, drivimig in and capturing some of the enemys pickets on the road. Within 1 mile of the city I came in sight of the earth-works, consisting of four re- doubts and a line of intrenchments about half a mile in length. I ordered one squadron of the Eleventh Pennsylvania Cavalry to charge the works with drawn sabers, which they did in gallant style, but owing to the superior force and position of the enemy, they were compelled to fall back, forming line again in advance of the main column. After due consultation with the general commanding, I made a careful reconnaissance of the enemys position, and ordered the following disposition of my command: On the right, carbineers of the Eleventh to dismount and advance as skirmishers. One squadron, mounted, of the Eleventh was ordered to the extreme right and one to the extreme left, with orders to charge in concert with dismounted line of skirmishers; the remainder of the Eleventh were posted on the center and right center, with orders to charge mounted on the appearance of wavering or confusion among the enemy. The Fifth Pennsylvania Cavalry was ordered and took position on the left of the road, with orders to storm the two redoubts in their front and penetrate the line of intrenchments. The line moved forward simultaneously, under cover of two 6-pounder rifled guns, com- manded by Lieutenant Morton, Eighth New York Battery, and two 12-pounder mountain howitzers of the Fifth, the right being assisted by a detachment from First District. The enemy received us with a determined and vigorous musketry fire along the whole line; also on the left with grape and canister from one piece of artillery. The position occupied by the enemy was well chosen and defended with obstinac y.O ur assaulting party continued to prQss forward in the face of the fire, captured the redoubts, and occupied them, then pre- pared to charge the line of intrenchments, which was done, and the works carried, with a loss to the enemy of 30 killed, many wounded Page 312 312 OPERATIONS IN SE. VA. AND N. C. [CHAP. XLVIII. among whom were several officers left on the field, and about 40 prisoners, besides one piece of artillery and a large quantity of small- arms. The latter were destroyed by our men. The squadron on the right charged around the works to within one-half of a mile of Petersburg; there halted for the main column. Owing to obstruc- tions the squadron on the extreme left could not move forward, whereby the principal portion of the enemy made their escape into the woods close by. These works were said to be defended by two regiments of militia and one of regulars under the supervision of General Beauregard. On the approach of the main column the advance squadron moved forward. It was ascertained that during the engagement mentioned the enemy had received large re-enforce- ments, and when the advance reached within 150 yards of Peters- burg the enemy opened with musketry, grape, and canister from four pieces of artillery posted on a bluff immediately in front of~ the town. The fire was so severe that I ordered the advance to wheel to the left about and retired about 50 yards to tbe cover of a bluff along the road. There I halted about ten minutes until it was ascer- tained the column had left and the enemy approaching in force. I retired slowly, soon met the general commanding, stated the condi- tion of the enemys force, and was ordered to fall back slowly, which was done, after a delay of one hour and a half, in order to prosecute a search for wounded and missing. My rear guard was followed by infantry, cavalry, and artillery for a distance of 2 miles from Peter~ burg. A detachment of the First District then formed in the rear of my column, and I returned to camp with my command, reaching here at 10.30 p. m. Inclosed please find the reports* of my reginiental commanders! with lists of casualties. I am, captain, with high respect, your obedient servant, S. P. SPEAR, Colonel, Commanding Brigade. Capt. M. J. ASCH, A. A. A. C., Kantzs Car. Div., 18th Army Corps. ADDENDA. HATCHERS, VA., June 18, 1864. Col. S. P. SPEAR, Second Cavalry Brigade: DEAR SIR: You led the advance of Kautzs attack on the left on the fortifications of Petersburg on the 9th. Will you please answer the following interrogatories: First. What force did you estimate in your immediate front on outer line? You mentioned three regi- ments in your report. Second. Where were the other troops for the defense of the outer line, and whose command were they under? Give your sources of information. Third. Do you consider that on that day the interior defenses near the town were strong orweak? Fourth. Where could the enemy have got re-enforcements from, and where did they get them from? Give sources of information. Fifth. Give your estimate of force adequate, if it were practicable, to force the inner line and reach the bridge across the Appomattox on that day. Sixth. Was the resistance you met on approaching * Report of commanding officer Eleventh Pennsylvania Cavalry not found Page 313 CHAP. XLVIII.] 313 ENGAGEMENT AT PETERSBURG. the inner line strong or weak, and of what character? Seventh. What was the character of the inner line of defenses? Eighth. Was General Kantz with yon in front? Very respectfully, your obedient servant, Q. A. GJLLMORE, Major- General. IN THE FIELD, NEAR HATCHERS, VA., June 18, 1864. Maj. Gen. Q. A. GILLMORE: DEAR SIR: In reply to your communication of this date, I have to state that I led the advance of General Kautzs attack on the left of the fortifications in front of Petersburg on the 9th instant. I estimated the strength of the force on the outer line in my immedi- ate front at about 1,500 infantry and three pieces of artillery. On my right was a force of artillery and iiYfantry whom I was informed by prisoners and intelligent wounded officers and citizens to be com- manded by Wise in person. The defenses in the immediate front of the town consisted of a stockade with earth-work in front, very strong, and on my approach about 150 yards a most murderous fire of artillery and infantry was opened upon me. Had the enemy re- served this fire for a few minutes longer the most fearful results to my command would have ensued, and I was compelled to fall back under cover immediately. After falling back about 1 mile I found in a house about 14 wounded soldiers and citizens. I inter- rogated each separately. They were in different rooms and could not hear the conversation in the adjoining rooms. I found in summing up their statements the following results, viz, that Beau- regard had a large force (they could not state the number) between the Appomattox and Swift Creek, and that the town of Petersburg could be and was re-enforced by him. Heard engines whistling often and the rolling of cars. My first impression was that the town could be easily entered, but after falling back (and at about 1.30 p. in.) I con- cluded that it would take 8,000 or 10,000 men to take and occupy Petersburg. No officer superior in rank to me was with me in lead- ing the attack with the First Battalion. I reached the outer works in front of the town at 11.30 a. m. by the watch. I am, general, with high respect, your obedient servant, SAMUEL P. SPEAR, Golonel Eleventh Pennsylvania Cay., Comdg. Brigade. I fully concur in the above statement, excepting the number of guns and men specified as being in the outer line of works. I was not in a position to state how many of either were located there. GERARD REYNOLDS, Uaptain, Eleventh Pennsylvania ~Javalry. The above statement of Colonel Spear I fully concur in. The facts stated occurred under my personal observations. I saw, how- ever, but two guns in the outer works, although it is possible there were others there. WILLIAM BAILEY, Captain, Eleventh Pennsylvania Cavalry. From personal observation I concur in the above statement of Colonel Spear. I could not say exactly how many guns were in th Page 314 814 OPERATIONS IN SE. VA. AND N. C. [CHAP. XLVIII. outer works. I saw, however, two, but in the inner line of works there was at least a whole battery. I saw four guns at least, all of which opened on us with a terrific fire and compelled us to fall back and seek a shelter. JOHN G. SAMPLE, Second Lieutenant, Comdg. Co. D, 11th Penn. Cay. No. 16. Report of Lieut. J. Frank Cummings, Fifth Pennsylvania Cav alry, Acting Assistant Adjutant-General. SECOND CAVALRY BRIGADE, June 18, 1864. The following are extracts from my memoranda book of the oper- ations of the Second Cavalry Brigade, on the 9th instant (the time stated is correct by the watch) Reached first line of enemys intrenchments on Jerusalem and Petersburg plank road about 11.30 a. in. morning of the 9th; carried the works and got inside of them at 1.15 p. m. Wounded officers captured then report the enemys force on the outer line at that point at one regiment of regular infantry and two of militia, and one piece of artillery. Marched on the city of Petersburg; met with a very heavy fire from both artillery and infantry. The force met at the town came from Beauregards force, which was lying between Swift Creek and the Appomattox River; this information gained from citizens and wounded officers left on the field. One Mr. Griffith, who was wounded and left on the field, gave the most information. General Wises force was on our right, and in front of the Prince George and City Point road, where General Gillmores force was supposed to have gone; could not find out his (Wises) exact force, but was at least one battery and a brigade of infantry, as we were informed by contrabands, citizens, and captured wounded officers. The next line of defenses consisted of stockades on very high bluffs. The battery that opened on the Second Cavalry Brigade was behind the stockades. The stockade was defended by both infantry and artillery. J. FRANK CUMMINGS, Lieut. 5th Pa. Cay., and A. A. A. G., 2d Cay. Brig. No. 17. Report of Lieut. Col. Christopher Kleinz, Fifth Pennsylvania Cav alry. HEADQUARTERS FIFTH PENNSYLVANIA CAVALRY, In the Field, near Bermuda Hundred, June 10, 1864. LIEUTENANT: I have the honor to submit the following report of the operations of this regiment, with list of casualties thereto, during the Petersburg expedition of the 9th instant: The regiment proceeded without interruption to a point about 7 miles distant from Point of Rocks. At this p lace, and about 10 a. in.. the enemy fired upon our right flank from the wood. I immediately ordered the First Battalion to dismount and skirmish the woods, for the purpose of ascertaining the strength and position of the enemy. Captain Ker, with his squadron, skirmished to the left, Captain Gal Page 315 CHAP. XLVIII.j ENGAGEMENT AT PETERSBUJ~G. 315 lisath to the right. Captain Ker drove the enemy from the wood on his front and across a ravine, after which the enemy opened fire upon him with howitzers. But 2 shots were fired from the pieces when Captain Gallisath charged upon them and drove them from their positions. He then charged into their camp with 35 men and routed over 100 of the enemy, driving theni into their intrenchments, and after a few minutes engagement drove them a quarter of a m!le be- yond. The enemy left iu their precipitate flight arms, horse equip-. ments, and clothing, all of which were destroyed by .my men. The regiment having been ordered to keep closed up with the division, the battalion was called in and the regiment proceeded on the march. No casualties occurred during this engagement. The command ar- rived abont a half mile from the Petersburg fortifications about 11.30 a. ni. Shortly after the advance of the divisionhadbecomeengaged, I was ordered to form my command in line of battle on the left of the road and immediately in front of the enemys works, about a quarter of a mile distant. During the formation, which was done promptly, the enemy opened on our right with shell, disabling 3 horses. Our howitzers at the same time opened fire upon the rebels, one of the shells killing 2 and wounding 3 of their men. I was then ordered to move my command forward and charge the enemys works; the nature of the ground, obstacles in my front, and the general position being such as to render a mounted charge impos- sible, I moved forward to a depression in the field, where I dis- mounted Nos. 1, 2, and 3 of my men and charged the breast-works and outer redoubts. The enemy made an obstinatp resistance and succeeded in holding their position. I then secured a position I could hold, and there remained, keeping the enemy engaged until they were attacked on the right. Simultaneous with the charge on their right, my men charged the works, driving the enemy from their gun, which was then in position and had done considerable execution among the horses of the dismounted men. After they had been driven from the gun we charged after them and the caisson which they had taken off. This was captured with 3 horses, the driver having been killed. On returning with the caisson in the direction of the gun (which we had captured), for the purpose of bringiug it away, we were informed that the First District of Columbia Cavalry had taken it while we were charging after the caisson and carried it off as one of their trophies. The works having been carried, I was ordered to bring my men back and form the regiment, after which I was ordered to countermarch my command and fall in in rear of the Eleventh Pennsylvania Cavalry. This was done about 2 p. in., when the command retired. The casualties are as follows: Wounded, 13 enlisted men; missing, 1 officer (Capt. G. D. Hart, K Company. When last seen was about 2 miles from the field of action, returning with the regiment. It is supposed that he dismounted to rest, when the regiment halted, fell asleep, and has been captured on the road); 1 enlisted man. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, CHRIS. KLEINZ, Lieutenant- Colonel, Commanding. Lient. J. F. CUMMINGS, Actg. Asst. Adji. Gem., Second Cam Brig. P. S.The caisson and ammunition captured were destroyed by the pioneer corps of the regiment Page 316 3113 OPERATIONS IN SE. VA. AND N. C. [CHAP. XLVIIL No. 18. Congratulatory orders from Brig. Gen. Henry A. Wise, C. S.Army, commanding First Military District, Department of North Caro- lina and Southern Virginia. SPECIAL ORDERS, IIDQRS. FIRST MILITARY DISTRICT, No. 11. ~ Dept. of N. C. and S. Virginia, June 12, 1864. * * * * * * * VII. To the troops of my command for the defense of Peters- burg, on the south side of the Appomattox, on the 9th instant, I have, with the approval and under the instructions of the command- ing general, to offer my grateful acknowledgment for their gallant conduct and my congratulations upon their successful repulse of the enemy. Approaching with nine regiments of infantry and cavalry, and at least four pieces of artillery, they searched our lines from Battery No. 1 to Battery 29, a distance of nearly 6 miles. Hoods and Battes battalions, the Forty-sixth Regiment Virginia Volun- teers, and one company, Captain Woods, Company F, of the Twenty-third South Carolina, with Sturdivants battery and a few guns in position, and Taliaferros cavalry kept them at bay and punished them severely until the y reached the Jerusalem plank road in front of Battery 29, defended by Major Archers corps of reserves and second-class militia, and by one piece of Sturdivants battery, a howitzer, under the temporary command of Brigadier- General Coiston. Thus, with overwhelming numbers, they were twice repulsed, and succeeded only at last in penetrating a gap in the lines and in flanking a mere handful of citizen soldiers, who stood firmly and fought bravely as veterans, until ordered to fall back. Alas, some of the noblest of them fell with their backs to the ground and their front to the foe, consecrating with their blood the soil of the homes they defended. Their immediate commanders have reported the heroism of them allthe living and the dead and now with pride and gratitude I announce that Beauregard him- self has thanked Archer and his comrades on the very spot of their devotion. lf they lost killed, wounded, and missing 65 out of less than 150 men, they spent their blood dearly to the enemy. If Stur- divants battery lost one gun, a better was captured and another dis- abled; and if they lost a half mile of ground they gained an half hour of time and saved their beloved city by holding on long enough for Sturdivants and Grahams and Youngs batteries, Dearings cav- alry, and the Forty-sixth Virginia Infantry, with Woods (South Carolina) company, a company of convalescents and a company of penitents, to drive back the insolent foe from approaches which their footstejjs for the first time polluted. With the help of God it be the ast time. With such troops as all 1~ave proven them- selves, commanders may well give assurance with confidence to the people of Petersburg. A people who can thus fight for their altars must be aided, supported, guarded by every arm which can be out- stretched for their defense. Comrades, their wives and daughters, are daily and hourly nursing our sick and wounded; they wipe4the hot brow, cool the fevered lips, and tenderly nourish and comfort the suffering soldiers in their hospitals. The angel nurses and the stricken patients of this patriotic p lace shall not fall into the hands of ruffian invaders. Its very militia has set an example whic Page 317 CHAP. XLVIII.] ENGAGEMENT AT PETERSBURG. 317 inspires the confidence that Petersburg is indomitable, and which consoles and compensates for every drop of blood which has been spilt at Nottoway, at Walthall Junction, and at Drewrys Bluff and Howletts Neck for the defense of the Old Cockade City. Let the reserves and second-class militia of the surrounding counties now come in prom~tly, one and all, and emulate this bright and success- ful examp e; et it hotly hiss to blood-red shame the laggards and skulkers from the streets and alleys of the city to the lines, and let it proclaim aloud that Petersburg is to be and shall be defended on her outer walls, on her inner lines, at her corporation bounds, on every street, and around every temple of God and altar of man, in her every heart, until the blood of that heart is spilt. Roused by this spirit to this pitch of resohition, we will fight the enemy at every step, and Petersburg is safe. HENRY A. WISE, Bri~gadier-General. No. 19. Report of Brig. Gen. Raleigh E. Goiston, C. S. Army. PETERSBURG, June 10, 1864. I have the honor to submit the following report of the affair of yesterday: I reported for orders to General Wise about 9.30 a. m. and he ordered me to take position at Lunette No. [6, and bold that position. I repaired to that point and remained tht~re until 11 a. m. At that time a courier reported to me that the enemy were advancing upon the Jerusalem road, and threatening Major Archers position. I started immediately to that point, leaving orders to my aid e-de-camp, Tosh, to remain at Lunette No. 16, to receive any orders that might come. Before I reached Major Archers position at Lunettes Nos. 27 and 28, I heard the firing of musketry at Archers position. I imme- diately ordered a 12-pounder howitzer to repair to Lunettes 27 and 28, at the intersection of the Jerusalem road and the intrenchments. When I reached that point I found that Major Archers front had repelled a charge of cavalry of the enemy on the Jerusalem road. Shortly afterward the enemy advanced again and formed a line of dismounted cavalry in front of Lunette 27, keeping also a line of mounted men back of Gregorys house. They advanced toward our intrenchments and began deploying to the right. About that time the 12-pounder howitzer came up and I placed it in position, but, to my extreme mortification, found that we had not a single round of canister. Just when the enemy were within easy canister range I ordered to open fire upon the enemy with shell, which was done with some execution. The enemy soon began replying with four pieces of artillery. The militia under Major Archer stood their ground with great steadiness. The enemy then began to spread out on our right and left. I directed Major Archer to spread his men out toward the right or front, if possible, to check the enemy. but at the same time they began deploying and extending on our left. Their total force in view was at least 1,000 men. Our entire force composed altogether of militia, only about 170 menless than 150 Page 318 318 OPERATIONS IN SE. VA. AND N. C. [CHAP. XLVIII. On our left was a gap of 1 mile between us and the next sup port; on our right were no supports at all for a distance of 4 miles to the river. The militia and the howitzer remained at their posts with great gal- lantry in spite of the galling fire of the enemy, who were completely protected by Mr. Gregorys dwelling-house and outbuildings and fence, and the exceedingly defective location and construction of our breast-works, which permitted the enemy to come up within 50 yards completely sheltered and unseen. For two hours the militia under Major Archer maintained their position against overwhelming odds, until being flanked on the right and left and the enemy occupying Lunette No. 26 in their rear, it became impossible to hold the posi- tion any longer, and the order to retreat was given. The militia then retreated to the city and took position on the heights at the top of Sycamore street and by the water-works. I wish to bear full and explicit testimony to the steadiness and gallantry of the citizen soldiers who composed Major Archers com- mand. They stood to the breast-works like veterans and did not fall back until ordered to do so, when they were surrounded on three sides, and almost entirely cut off. Knowing how important it was to hold the position to the last minute, and expecting re-enforcement every moment, I delayed giving the order to retreat until it was evident that a minute or two longer would have rendered inevitable the capture or death of every man in the breast-works. The salva- tion of the city of Petersburg is undoubtedly due in the first p lace to the brave militia of the city; for, had they retreated five or ten minutes sooner, the artillery, which was the first to check the enemys advance, instead of meeting them at the heights, on the south side of the city, would have been intercepted before they could cross the bridge, and the city would probably have remained in the enemys hands. Major Archers personal conduct was worthy of all p raise, as was that of his command, whose severe losses will bear full testi- mony to their gallantry. I would respectfully suggest that Mr. Gregorys house and out- buildings be burned forthwith. They afforded complete shelter to the enemy, who placed their sharpshooters in them, and in case of another attack, they will cause the loss of many more lives. I am, sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant, R. E. COLSTON, Captain PEARCE, Brigadier- General. Assistant Adjutant-General. ADDENDA. HEADQUARTERS FIRST MILITARY DISTRICT, Petersburg, Va., June 14, 1864. Brig. Gen. R. E. CoLsToN: GENERAL: Beyond the general expression of thanks to my whole command, contained in Special Orders, No. 11, paragraph 7, June 12 instant, in which it is stated you were in temporary command of the forces on my right, and that you had reported the heroism of the mili- tia, and which expression included you, of course, I (leem it your due that I should distinctly express to you, individually, my thanks for the efficient and gallant part you bore in the affair of the 9th. You tendered your services on the field in any duty which I would assign you. They were gratefully accepted, and I placed you in comman Page 319 CHAP. XLVIII.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 319 on the right. This I did, ~relying on your experience and skill to guide the militia, assured that you would more than aid Major Archer in supplying their want of discipline, and that their confidence would be increased, as it was, by your presence and example. Your example was everything I could ask; you held the militia as long as regulars and veterans could have been held, and yourself, on foot, assisted in saving the retreat after having seized a musket and fired upon the enemy with your own hand, and after 2 men had been shot from the saddle of your own horse. You did all that was possible with the men and means I had it in my power to place at your disposal. While Archer and his militia will ever be gratefully remembered, it must not be forgotton that they were led and commanded by you, that you shared their danger to the last and doubtless taught them how to win the glory and gratitude now shed upon their gallantry. Very truly and faithfully, your obedient servant HENRY A. WISE, Brigadier-General. CORRESPONDENCE, ORDERS, AND RETURNS RELATING TO OPERATIONS IN SOUTHEASTERN VIRGINIA AND NORTH CAROLINA, FROM MAY 1, 1864, TO MAY 19, 1864.* UNION~ CORRESPONDENCE. ETC. CULPEPER, VA., May 1, 186410.30 a. m. (Received 11.25 a. in.) Hon. E. M. STANTON, Secretary of War: Your dispatcht giving information derived from rebel lieutenant received. It will riot be necessary to send the lieutenant here, as the dispatch is very full. I do not place great reliance on the informa- tion, because I do not see how an officer of that rank comes to kn6w so much of future plans, but I will watch. U. S. GRANT, Lieutenant-General. WASHINGTON, May 1, 18642.45 p. m. Lieutenant-General GRANT, Culpeper, Va.: The Twenty-second New York was not dismounted, as General Burnside represented that they were required for his command. Four hundred and twenty-five cavalry horses were shipped for Cul- peper yesterday; 200 or more will be sent forward per day. Mes- senger just returned from General Banks with dispatches for you, which have been forwarded. He left Grand Ecore on the 21st [April], and represents tire condition of affairs more favorable. Admiral Porter sent a verbal message that they were all right. Navy Department closed and I can get no further information about iron-dads to-day. See in New York papers that twp more have sailed from that city. Will order Colonel Mplntosh as soon * For Correspondence, & c., from May 20 to June 12, 1864, see Part III. ISee Vol. XXXIII, p. 1022 Page 320 320 OPERATIONS IN SE. VA. AND N. C. [CHAP. XLVIII. as General Augur returns. I have just examined a rebel officer, whose statements, made in Baltimore, were sent to you last night. He evidently believes what he says. H. W. HALLECK, Major- General and Chief of Staff. FORT RICHARDSON, VA., May 1, 1864. Brig. Gen. HENRY J. HUNT, Chief of Artillery, Army of the Potomac: GENERAL: Yours of the 29th ultimo is received. * I will at once make requisition for the sand-bags, as you suggest. I propose to take ten 8-inch siege howitzers. I have the following ordnance, and ordnance stores afloat at the present time, and the list is daily in- creasing: 4~--inch guns18 guns, 20 carriages, 10 sets implements, 10 platforms, 3,600 rounds; 30-pounder Parrotts2 guns, 10 car- riages, 10 platforms, 2,600 rounds; 10-inch mortars10 guns, 10 beds, 1,000 shells; 8-inch mortars20 guns, 8 beds, 2,290 shells; Coehorns1, 900 shells; 1 battery wagon (D); 1 forge (A); 1 large sling cart; with many smaller articles. Every step has been taken to hurry forward the rem~iainder, and it is loaded as fast as received. I have now 7 schooners, about 200 tons each. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, HENRY L. ABBOT. Colonel First Connecticut Artillery. HEADQUARTERS SECOND ARMY CORPS, Brig. Gen. S. WILLIAMS, May 1, 1864. Asst. Adjt. Gen., Army of the Potomac, Va.: GENERAL: I request that I may be permitted to ride in a spring wagon when I find it necessary. The order in force does not give me that authority. This concession only to continue until my wound is healed. I may not require it, but I shoul4 like to have the authority. I am, sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant, WINFD S. HANCOCK, Major- General. HEADQUARTERS SECOND ARMY CORPS, May 1, 1864. General WILLIAMS, Assistant Adjutant-General: GENERAL: The following information just received: STONY MOUNTAIN SIGNAL STATIoN11.15 a. m. The strong flank works directly opposite this station and about 3 miles back from the river have been masked since yesterday morning with pine or cedar brush. All quiet. TAYLOR, Very respectfully, Signal Officer. HANCOCK, Major- General. *See Vol. XXXIII, p. 1014 Page 321 C~p. XLVIII.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 321 HEADQUARTERS SECOND ARMY CORPS, May 1, 1864. General WILLIAMS, Assistant Adjutant-General: GENERAL: The following dispatch has just been received: STONY MOUNTAIN SIGNAL STATION6.30 p. m. The enemy has been engaged to-day masking with brush the battery between Dr. Mortons house and their works on same range of heights between Mortons and Raccoon Fords. All quiet. TAYLOR, Captain and Signal Officer. WJNFD S. HANCOCK. GARNETTS MOUNTAIN, M~y 1, 1864. Major-General WARREN: All quiet. FULLER Signal Officer. BRANDY, May 1, 1864. Lien tenant-Colonel LOCKE: The First Division is in camp just below Ingalls Station. Some provision should be made to keep up the full supply of rations and forage. CHAS. GRIFFIN, Brigadier- General. Lieutenant-Colonel LOCKE, RAPPAHANNOCK, May 1, .1864. Assistant Adjutant-General: Brigadier-General Griffin directs me to inform you that the troops are all across the river, and the pontoons will be taken up as soon as the wagons are across. G. M. BARNARD, JR., Captain, & c. HEADQUARTERS SIXTH CORPS, Brig. Gen. S. WILLIAMS, May 1, 1864. Assistard Adjutant-General: GENERAL: I have the honor to report that the cavalry now Oh duty with this command consists of a detachment of the Eighth Pennsylvania Cavalry, Capt. C. E. Fellows commanding, nulnber- ing 2 officers and 51 enlisted men, assigned as escort and on provost- marshal duty. Of the horses 41 are serviceable and 10 are unserv- iceable. The arms, equipments, and accouterments are in good condition. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, JOHN SEDGWICK, Major- General, Commanding Sixth Gorps. 21. R RvOL xxxvi, PT I Page 322 322 OPERATIONS IN SE. VA. AND N. C. [CHAP. XLVIII. HEADQUARTERS SIXTH CORPS, May 1, 1864. Major BEERS, Gomdg. Battalion Fiftieth New York Vol. Engineers: MAJOR: The general commanding the corps directs that you move your camp at an early hour to-morrow morning to this side of the river, and that as soon as the brigade of Colonel Upton has crossed, you cause the pontoon bridge to be taken up. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, GRAS. A. WHITTIER, Major and Acting Assistant Adjutant-General. WARRENTON JUNCTION, May 1, 1864. (Received 8.40 p. in.) Hon. EDWIN M. STANTON: Has Colonel Hartranft been confirmed a brigadier-general? If possible I would like to have it carried through to-morrow. A. E. BURNSIDE, Major- General. CULPEPER, May 1, 1864. Major-General BURNSIDE: Do you not think the Twenty-second New York Cavalry would be worth more to you on foot than mounted? Their horses would mount 1,000 veteran cavalrymen now with Meades army and with- out horses. U. S. GRANT, Lieutenant- General. WARRENTON JUNCTION, May 1, 1864. Lieutenant-General GRANT: I am satisfied that horses will be of more use to Meade than to me. I will dismount them as soon as they arrive, but I fear I will be short of cavalry. A. E. BURNSIDE, Major- General. WAR DEPARTMENT, May 1, 1864. Major-General BURNSIDE: The Indiana and Illinois colored troops have just arrived here and are having their organization completed by Major-General Casey. The Washington regiment will move out to-morrow. By order: C. W. FOSTER, Assistant Adjutant-General Page 323 CHAP. XLVIII.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETO.UNION. 323 WARRENTON JUNCTION, May 1, 1864. (Received 5.45 p. in.) General BENHAM, Commanding Engineers: Please have pontoon train sent down by railroad at once, sufficient to span Rappahannock. I think it takes ten boats. It should be at Rappahannock Station, with the working party necessary to build it, on the morning of the 3d, without fail. Have officer in charge train report to me at this place on his way down. A. E. BURNSIDE, Major- General. ENGINEER BRIGADE, Washington, D. C., Majj 1, 18647.30 p. m. (Received 7.55 p. in.) General A. E. BUENSIDE, Warrenton Junction: Your dispatch of to-day just received. Please inform me if you require pontoon trucks with the bridge; otherwise I shall suppose you require only the boats and superstructure of the bridge to be used at Rappahannock Station. If you need trucks and animals from Washington, it may be impossible to get them to you by Tues- day morning. The bridge and trucks only can reach you in due time, if the railroad can take them, which will be seen at once. H. W. BENHAM. WARRENTON JUNCTION, May 1, 1864. Brigadier-General BENHAM: I do not want the trucks. I simply want the boats, superstruc- ture, and building party. A. E. BURNSIDE, Major- General. WARRENTON JUNCTION, May 1, 1864. General FERRERO, Manassas: Practice your new troops at target, and drill them as much as pos- sible. Be ready to move at five hours notice. A. E. BURNSIDE. MANASSAS, May, 1, 1864. Major-General BURNSIDE: No troops have passed this place this morning on foot; some have on cars. We are constantly drilliiig. Please send me at least one brigade commander. Will inform you when troops pass here. K FERRERO, Brigadier-General Page 324 324 OPERATIONS IN SE. VA. AND N. C. [CHAP. XLVIII. MANASSAS, May 1, 186~. Major-General BUENSIDE: GENERAL: The Twenty-Second New York Cavalry, mounted, will be here about 4 oclock, and the Second [Ohio] and Twenty-fourth [New York], dismounted, will be here during the night. Very respectfully, E. FERRERO, Brigadier-General. MANASSAS, May 1, 1864. Major-General BURNSIDE: The Twenty-Second New York Mounted Regiment has just arrived here, and will remain for the night. I will furnish them with forage. The Twenty-third U. S. Colored Regiment has just joined my division, consisting of eight companies. They came by rail; one company not arrived; Twenty-fourth New York and Sec- ond Ohio will camp here to-night. E. FERRERO. BRTSTOE, May 1, 1864. Major-General BURNSIDE: Durells battery and the Fourteenth New York Heavy Artillery passed this place this morning about 8 oclock. S. G. GRIFFIN, Colonel, Commanding. ALEXANDRIA, May 1, 1864. Maj. Gen. A. E. BURNSIDE: The Fifty-eighth and the Fifty-ninth Regiments of Massachu- setts Volunteers are here, and will leave to-morrow, and Buckleys Rhode Island battery also. Z. R. BLISS, Colonel, Commanding. CULPEPER, VA., May 1, 1864. Major-General MEADE, Commanding Army of the Potomac: By direction of Lieutenant-General Grant, the following telegram* is forwarded to you, and he directs that if you can furnish a regi- ment in exchange to Burnside without breaking up a brigade you will please do so. T. S. BOWERS, Assistant Adjutant-General. [Indorsement.] HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, May 1, 1864. Respectfully referred to Major-General Sheridan, who will comply with the above instructions of Lieutenant-General Grant if practica *$ee Burnside to Grant, May 1, p. 322 Page 325 CHAP. XLVIII.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 325 ble, when the horses referred to (supposed to be those of the Twenty- second New York or Third New Jersey Cavalry) are turned over to him. GEG. G. MEADE, Major- General. MAY 1, 1864. Lient. Col. C. KINGSBURY, Jr., Assistant Adjutant- General, ~iJavalry Corps: If General Sheridan has returned please say to him that the major- general commanding wishes to see him. A. A. HUMPHREYS, Major-General and Chief of Staff. HEADQUARTERS THIRD CAVALRY DIVISION, Lieutenant-Colonel FORSYTH, May 1, 1864. Chief of Staff, Cavalry Corps: Please send some order at once in the case of the horses of the First Ohio Cavalry. Nearly every officer in this diyision is riding public horses. To require them to be turned in would interfere with a move. Cannot some order be obtained requiring the horses to be valued and the amount to be stopped on pay accounts? Have you heard any- thing of the Eighth Illinois Cavalry, and is the balance of the regi- ment to join me? J. H. WILSON, Brigadier- General, Commanding. HEADQUARTERS THIRD CAVALRY DIVISION, Lieutenant-Colonel FORSYTH, May 1, 1864. Chief of Staff: The squadron of First Ohio Cavalry ordered from my division to the Department of the Cur~aberland owned their horses. Please have an order made at once directing the quartermasters department to purchase them at prices after due inspection. J.. H. WILSON, Brigadier- General of Volunteers. HDQRS. CAVALRY CORPS, ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, Brigadier-General WILSON, May 1, 1864. Commanding Third Cavalry Division: I have just got back from home. Will get the order for purchase of horses to-morrow. I also expect to furnish you with about ~ additional horses. P. H. SHE~UDAN, Major- General, Commancttng Page 326 326 OPERATIONS IN SE. VA. AND N. C. [Ca& p. XLVIII. HEADQUARTERS THIRD CAVALRY DIvIsIoN, May 1, 1864. Colonel FORSYTH, Chief of Staff: Telegram just received. All officers and men of other commands on duty in this division, except such as were authorized to be re- tained by proper authority, have been ordered to their regiments. If they have not reported, they are loafing somewhere in the vicin- ity. Am I to understand by your order that my ordnance officer and commissary of musters, and the clerks you authorized my quar- termaster to retain, are to be sent back? If so, please direct all offi- cers and men of my division serving in similar capacities elsewhere to be returned to me. J. H. WILSON, Briqadier- General of Volunteers. HEADQUARTERS CAVALRY CORPS, May 1, 1864. Brigadier-General WILSON, ~3~ornmanding Third Cavalry Division: You can retain the 2 officers, namely, commissary of musters and ordnance officer. General Torbert claims that you have about 100 men of his command. General Torbert was here yesterday, and states that although these men have been ordered back to their regi- ments, that they have not reported. For this reason yesterdays dispatch was sent. J. W. FORSYTH, Lieutenant- Colonel, & c. CULPEPER COURT-HOUSE, VA., May 1, 1864lO a. m. (Received 11.30 a. in.; Maj. Gen. B. F. BUTLER, Fortress Monroe, Va.: Have any more iron-dads reached you? Has General Gillinore arrived? U. S. GRANT, Lieutenant- General. FORT MONROE, May 1. 1864. (Received 12.15 p. in.) Lieutenant-General GRANT: One iron-clad arrived; two more now due. Four gun-boats due besides. General Gillmore not yet arrived. BENJ. F. BUTLER, Major-General Page 327 CHAP. XLVIII.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNIO~. 327 CULPEPER, VA., Il/lay 1, 18645.10 p. m. (Received 6.10 p. in.) Major-General BUTLER, Fort Monroe, Va.: Have you received letter* from me giving date for commencing operations? If General Gillmore arrives by morning of the 3d, those directions will be followed. Answer. U. S. GRANT, Lieutenant- General. FORT MONROE, May ii, 1864. General SMITH: Dont send the batteries to Newport News until you 4iear fnrther, except the 20-pounder Parrott. Let it come to Fort Monroe. J. W. SHAFFER, Colonel and Chief of Staff. FORT MONROE, May 1, 1864. Maj. Gen. W. F. SMITH: The First and Second U. S. Colored Cavalry have been ordered to report to you. Col. R. M. West, First Pennsylvania Artillery, is assigned to the immediate command of the regiments. HENRY T., SCHROEDER, Lieutenant and Acting Assistant Adjutant- General. HEADQUARTERS U. S. TROOPS AT YORKTOWN AND GLOUCESTER POINT, Yorktown, Va., May 1, 1864. Colonel SHAFFER, Chief of Staff, Fort Monroe: The following is from Col. G. V. Henry, commanding brigade, Tenth Corps, at West Point, this morning: My command landed at 10 a. m. to-day. The inhabitants say we have been ex- pected for two or three weeks. The impression is that 40,000 or 50,000 are to march toward White House. Am buildingagood dock with material Ihave brought, and desire to keep up this impression. If not contrary to your views, would like to keep up the impression. G. V. HENRY, Colonel Fortieth Massachusetts Volunteers. I have sent word to Colonel Henry that as soon as he feels his position secure he can make the reconnaissance, but not to go too far. WM. F. SMITH, Major- General. POINT LooKouT, May 1, 186410.05 p. m. Maj. R. S. DAVIS, Assistant Adjutan~t-General, Fort Monroe: MAJOR: I have information from the Potomac flotilla that a con- siderable force of rebel cavalry, supposed to be Fitzhugh Lees, * See Vol. XXXIII, p. 1009 Page 328 328 OPERATIONS IN SE. VA. AND N. 0. [cHA?. XLVIII. crossed the Rappahannock at Port Royal day before yesterday, and that some of their officers have crossed into Maryland in citizens dress. I have sent cavalry in search. A. G. DRAPER, Colonel, Commanding. HEADQUARTERS DISTRICT OF NORTH CAROLINA, New Berne, N. C., May 1, 1864. Maj. R. S. DAvIS, A. A. G., Hdqs. Dept. of Va. and N. C., Fort Monroe, Va.: MAJOR: Colonel McChesney, of the First North Carolina (Union) Volunteers, who was J eft to bring up the rear at Little Washington, has arrived here this morning. He reports that everything has been safely brought away. A deserter from the rebel forces has come in this morning giving the information that General Beauregard is at Kinston; that he is assembling five brigades there for the attack on New Berne. This may be so or not; as I informed you in my letter of yesterday, we ought to hope that Beanregards forces would be diverted from Virginia for the purpose of attacking us. I may be wrong in my estimate of our abilities, but I think we can make- a snccessful resistance. If the contrabands and the Carolinians will only make up their mind that this is no time for sauve qui peut, and if they will do well it will be all right. The order for the gun- boat Brewster to proceed to Fort Monroe has just been received, and she will start to-day. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, I. N. PALMER, Brigadier- General. WASHINGTON, May 2, 1864. Lieutenant-General GRANT, Culpeper: GENERAL: I believe all the directions in your confidential dis- patch of the 29th ultimo ~ have been carried out, so far as possible. It is a difficult matter to get troops out of the hands of some of the Governors of States, but we are making cotxsiderable progress. The Assistant Secretary of War, Mr. Dana, has gone West with full powers to start them off, forcibly, if necessary. The fine cavalry regiments so long detained in Indiana have started for Louisville, just as they are, half mounted and half on foot. We can regulate them when we get them away from the State authorities. The Gov- ernor of Massachusetts opposes the dismounting of his half-mounted colored regiment and we cannot get their horses. I have to-day ordered the men with their horses here, where we can dismount them in spite of the Governor and send their horses to General Meade. Dont rely too much on any immediate assistance from the proposed western militia force. It will take some time to raise them and get them into position, even under the strongest pressure. As fast as I can get militia regiments, I will hurry to the front the present guards at Johnsons Island, & c. A regiment from Ohio has been ordered to relieve Sigels troops, which are guarding the depot at Gallipolis. * See Grant to Halleck, April 29, 1864, Vol. XXXIII, p. 1017 Page 329 O~AP. XLvflt.] C0I~RESP0NDENCE, ETO.UNIOIW. ~29 In your calculations take into account the fact that all the water transportation we can get is absorbed by General Butler, and by rations put afloat. In case troops are to be sent to General Butler, most of the transports must come from him. The North has been completely stripped. General Canby has been assisting me in get- ting recruits, furloughed men, and troops out of the Northern States. He has been sick, and his duties in the War Department have nearly broken him down. He says his business is greatly be- hind in the office. Wherever you and the Secretary of War think I can be of most service I am ready to go. I am willing to serve any- where and everywhere. Just at the present crisis it might not be well to derange the machinery here. There must be some military head here to keep things from getting into a snarl. There must be some common head to make the different bureaus act in concert and with promptness. It is impossible for the Secretary of War or his assistants to attend personally to these matters. Yours, truly, H. W. HALLECK, Major-General and Chief of Staff. WASHINGTON, May 2, 186412.40 p. m. Lieutenant-General GRANT, Culpeper, Va.: Navy Department reports five iron-dads now in Hampton Roads, viz, the Roanoke, Atlanta, Onondaga, Tecuinseh, and Saugus. An- other, the Canonicus, passed Sandy Hook at 10 a. m. May 1, and will be at Hampton Roads on the evening of the 3d. Forage and provision rations will be ready in time, as directed. H. W. HALLECK, Major- General and Chief of Staff MAY 2, 18642.30 p. m. Lieutenant-General GRANT, Culpeper, Va.: Have you given any orders direct to General Buruside to dis- mount the Twenty-second New York Cavalry? There seems to be some misunderstanding. H. W. HALLECK, Major- General and Chief of Staff. CULPEPER, VA., May 2, 186410.30 p. m. Maj. Gen. H. W. HALLECK, (Received 11.55.) Chief of Staff: The Twenty-second New York Cavalry were dismounted at my suggestion, that the horses were worth more to mounted veteran cavalry, who have no horses, than men and horses together are. A new regiment will be worth something on foot, but less than their forage on horseback. I did not give a peremptory order for dis- mounting the regiment however. U.S. GRANT, Lieutenant-General Page 330 330 OPERATIONS IN SE. VA. AND N. C. [CHAP. XLVIII. MAY 2, 18649 a. m. Lieutenant-General GRANT: Brigadier-General Rowley has been tried by court-martial and is now awaiting the promulgation of proceedings, the record having been transmitted to Washington. He is without command and desires to go to Harrisburg, Pa., to await further action. I would be glad if an order to that effect can be issued or authority to that effect given me. GEO. G. MEADE, Major- General. CULPEPER, May 2, 1864. Major-General MEADE: You are hereby authorized to make the necessary orders for Brig- adier-General Rowley. * U. S. GRANT, Lieutenant- General. IIDQRS. DEPT. OF WASHINGTON, 22D ARMY CORPS, Washington, D. C., May 2, 1864. (Received 4.40 p. in.) Major-General MEADE, Commanding Army of the Potomac: There are some detachments of cavalry belonging to your army here mounted but not fully equippe(l; shall they be sent as they are or wait until fully equipped? C. C. AUGUR, Major- General. MAY 2, 1864-8 p. in. Major-General AUGUR: We will take all mounted men as they are, and would like to have them sent out on the cars to-morrow, if possible. GEO. G. MEADE, Major- General. STONY MOUNTAIN SIGNAL STATION, May 2, 1864. Capt. B. F. FISHER, Chief Signal Officer: CAPTAIN:1 was at Raccoon and Somerville Fords this a. in.; found the enemy still fortifying at the former; saw no change in camps in those vicinities and no unusual stir. Nearly all the forti- fications between Mortons and Somerville Fords have been masked with brush. A new camp has appeared to-day behind Raccoon Ford, about 1 mile from the river. A party of 20 have been throw- ing up a small work this p. in. near Dr. Mortons house. No further movements observed, up to the time the storm set in. The rebel signal station established at Gibsons house, directly opposite us, is for the purpose, I judge, of deceiving us; they make wild and un * Ordered by Special Orders, No. 133, Army of the Potomac, May 2, 1864, to pro- ceed to Harrisburg Page 331 331 Ciu,. XLVIII.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNIOK. meaning motions with their flags, while at the same time they appear to be watching our station with their glasses. The following mes- sage and part of message was taken by me from Clarks Mountain this p. m. Parties standing in front of their flag on the mountain top prevented my getting the whole of the last: To STATION C. Is General Ewell at his headquarters? If not please let us know. STATION J. Hokesbrigade 11111,22222, Dt.Ga. 11114,222 81, N. C. regts ordered here P. A. TAYLOR, Captain Signal Corps. GENERAL ORDERS, ~ IIDQRS. ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, No. 23. May 2, 1864. The commanding general having learned that, notwithstanding the caution contained in General Orders, No. 22, of April 25, 1864, from these headquarters, * there are men in this army who refuse to do duty on the ground that their term of service has expired, it will be made known to such men that their conduct, being open mutiny, will be punished with death without trial unless they promptly re- turn to duty; and, hereafter, any soldier who refuses to do duty on a similar plea will instantly be shot without any form of trial what- ever. The honor of the service, and the necessities of the hour, admit of no other disposition of such cases. The commanding gen- eral again expresses the hope that the soldiers of this army will respectfully ask for and cheerfully abide by the decision of the War Department with respect to their term of service, but he has no further word of warning for those who, at a time like the present, choose to defy lawful authority. Corps and other independent com- manders are charged with the execution of this order. By command of Major-General Meade: S. WILLIAMS, Assistant Adjutant-General. ORDERS.] HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, May 2, 1864. 1. The army will move on Wednesday, the 4th of May, 1864. 2. On the day previous, Tuesday, the 3d of May, Major-General Sheridan, commanding Cavalry Corps, will move Greggs cavalry division to the vicinity of Richard syille. It will be accompanied by one-half the canvas pontoon train, the engineer troops with which will repair the road to Elys Ford as far as practicable without exposing their work to the observation of the enemy. Guards will be placed on all the occupied houses on or in the vicinity of the route of the cavalry and in advance toward the Rapidan, so as to prevent any communication with the enemy by the inhabitants. The same pre- caution will be taken at the same time in front of the First and Third Cavalry Divisions, and wherever it may be considered neces- sary. At 2 a. m. of the 4th May, Greggs division will move to *See Vol. XXXIII, p. 970 Page 332 OPERATIONS IN SE. VA. AND N. C. [Cau. XLVIII. Elys Ford, cross the Rapidan as soon as the canvas pontoon bridge is laid, if the river is not fordable, and as soon as the infantry of the Second Corps is up, will move to the vicinity of Piney Branch Church, or in that section, throwing reconnaissances well out on the Pamunkey road, toward Spotsylvania Court-House, Hamiltons Crossing, and Fredericksbu7rg. The roads past Piney Branch Church, Todds Tavern, & c., will be kept clear for the passage of the infantry the following day. The cavalry division will remain in this position to cover the passage of the army trains, and will move with them and cover their left flank. At midnight of the 3d of May, the Third Cavalry Division, with one-half the canvas pontoon bridge train, which will join it after dark, will move to Germanna Ford, taking the plank road, and cross the Rapidan as soon as the bridge is laid, if the river is not fordable, and hold the crossing until the infantry of the Fifth Corps is up. It will then move to Parkers Store, on the Orange Court-House plank road, or that vicin- ity, sending out strong reconnaissances on the Orange pike and plank roads and the Catharpin and Pamunkey roads, until they feel the enemy, and at least as far as Robertsons Tavern, the New Hope Church, and Almonds or Robertsons. All intelligence concerning the enemy will be communicated with promptitude to headquarters and to the corps and division commanders of the nearest infantry troops. 3. Major-General Warren, commanding Fifth Corps, will send two divisions at midnight of the 3d instant, by way of Stevensburg and the plank road, to the crossing at Germanna Ford. So n-inch of the bridge train of the Fifth Corps as may be necessary to bridge the Rapidaji at Germanna Ford, with such artillery as may be re- quired, will accompany these divisions, which will be followed by the remainder of the corps at such hour that the column will cross the Rapidan without delay. Such disposition of the troops and ar- tillery as may be found necessary to cover the bridge will be made by the corps commander, who, after crossing, will move to the vicinity of the Old Wilderness Tavern, on the Orange Court-House pike. The corps will move the following day past the head of Catharpin Run, crossing the Orange Court-House plank road at Parkers Store. 4. Major-General Sedgwick, commanding Sixth Corps, will move a1 4 a. m. of the 4th instant, by way of Stevensburg and the Ger- manna plank road to Germanna Ford, following the Fifth Corps, and, after crossing the Rapidan, will bivouac on the heights beyond. The canvas pontoon train will be taken up as soon as the troops of the Sixth Corps have crossed, and will follow immediately in rear of the troops of that corps. So much of the bridge train of the Sixth Corps as may be necessary to bridge the Rapidan at Culpeper Mine Ford will proceed to Richardsville in rear of the Reserve Ar- tillery, and, as soon as it is ascertained that the Reserve Artillery are crossing, it will move to Culpeper Mine Ford, where the bridge will be established. The engineers of this bridge train will at once open a road from Culpeper Mine Ford direct to Richardsville. 5. Major-General Hancock, commanding Second Corps, will send two divisions, with so much of the bridge train as may be necessary to bridge the Rapidan at Elys Ford, and such artillery as may be required, at midnight of the 3d instant to Elys Ford. The remain- der of the corps will follow at such hour that the column will cross the Rapidan without delay. The canvas pontoon bridge at this for Page 333 CHAP. XLVIII.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.IJNION. 333 will be taken up as soon as the troops of this corps have passed, and will move with it at the head of the trains that accompany the Iroops. The wooden pontoon bridge will remain. The Second Corps will enter the Stevensburg and Richardsville road at Maddens, in order that the route from Stevensburg to the plank road may be free for the Fifth and Sixth Corps. After crossing the Rapidan, the Second Corps will move to the vicinity of Chandlers or Chancellorsville. 6. It is expected that the advanced divisions of the Fifth and Sec- ond Corps, with the wooden pontoon trains, will be at the designated points of crossing not later than 6 a. m. of the 4th instant. 7. The Reserve Artillery will move at 3 a. m. of the .4th instant, and follow the Second Corps, passing Mountain Run at Ross Mill or Hamiltons, cross at Elys Ford, take the road to Chancellorsville, and halt for the night at Hunting Creek. 8. Great care will be taken by the corps commanders that the roads are promptly repaired by the pioneers wherever needed, not only for the temporary wants of the division or corps to which the pioneers belong, but for the passage of the troops and trains that follow on ~the same route. 9. During the movement of the 4th and following days the com- manders of the Fifth and Sixth Corps will occupy the roads on the right flank, to cover the passage of their corps, and will keep their flankers well out in that direction. The commanders of ~he Second Corps and Reserve Artillery will, in a similar manner, look out for the left flank. Whenever practicable, double columns will be used to shorten the columns. Corps commanders will keep in communi- cation and connect with each other, and co-operate whenever neces- sary. Their picket-lines will be connected. They will keep the commanding general constantly advised of their progress and of everything important that occurs, and will send staff officers to acquaint him with the location of their headquarters. During the movement of the 4th instant headquarters will be on the route of the Fifth and Sixth Corps. It will be established at night between these corps on the Germanna plank road. 10. The infantry troops will take with them 50 rounds of ammuni- tion upon the person, three days full rations in the haversacks, three days bread and small rations in the knapsacks, and three days beef on the hoof. Each corps will take with it one-half its infantry am- munition, one-half the intrenching tools, one hospital wagon and one medicine wagon for each brigade, one-half the ambulance trains, and the light spring wagons and pack animals allowed at the various head- quarters. No other train or means of transportation than those just specified will accompany the corps, except such wagons as may be necessary for the forage for. immediate use (five days). The artillery will have with them the ammunition of the caissons only. 11. The subsistence and other trains, loaded with the amount of rations, forage, infantry and artillery ammunition, & c., heretofore ordered, the surplus wooden pontoons of the different corps, & c., will be assembled under thedirection of the chief quartermaster of the army in the vicinity of Richardsville, with a view to crossing the Rapidan by bridges at Elys Ford and Culpeper Mine Ford. 12. A detail of 1,000 or 1,200 men will be made from each corps as guard for its subsistence and other trains. This detail will be com- posed of entire regiments as far as practicable. No other guards whatever for regimental, brigade, division, or corps wagons will be allowed, Each detail will be under tine command of an officer selecte Page 334 .) -t OPERATIONS IN ~E. VA. AND N. C. [CHAP. XLVI1I. for that purpose, and the whole will be commanded by the senior officer 6f the three. This guard will be so disposed as to protect the trains on the march and in park. The trains are likewise protected by cavalry on the flanks and rear. 13. Major-General Sheridan, commanding Cavalry Corps, will direct the First Cavalry Division to call in its pickets and patrols on the right on the morning of the 4th instant, and hold itself ready to move and cover the trains of the army. It will picket and watch the fords of the Rapidan from Rapidan Station to Germanna Ford. On the morning of the 5th the First Cavalry Division will cross the Rapidan at Germanna Ford and cover the right flank of the trains while crossing the Rapidan and during their movements in rear of the army. The signal stations on Cedar, Pony, and Stony Mountains will be maintained as long as practicable. 14. The wooden pontoon bridges at Germanna Ford and Elys Ford will remain for the passage of General Burnsides army. That at Culpeper Mine Ford will be taken up, under the direction of the chief engineer, as soon as the trains have crossed, and will move with the train of its corps. By command of Major-General Meade: S. WILLIAMS, Assistant Adjutant-General. CIRCuLA1~.] HEADQUARTERs ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, May 2, 1864. Hereafter the designating flag for these headquarters will be a magenta-colored swallow-tailed flag, with an eagle in gold, sur- rounded by a silver wreath for an emblem. By command of Major-General Meade: S. WILLIAMS, Assistant Adjutant-General. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, May 2, 1864. Major-General HANCOCK: M~ DEAR GENERAL: I have received your note, and having since seen your inspector-general, have given him what you ask. Should anything occur of the kind you suggest up to the moment of depar- ture we will let you know. We expect to be able to send you two good men as guides. One of them may have to ride in an ambulance having lost part of one of his feet while lying within the enemys lines during the late snow-storm. I have the letter, and will see that it gets through. With respect and esteem, general, yours, GEORGE H. SHARPE, Colonel. STONY MOUNTAIN SIGNAL STATION, May 2, 1864. General HANCOCK: Indications of a move this morning by the enemy. Heavy column of infantry is now moving toward our left, on road near heavy flan Page 335 CHAP. XLVIII.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 335 works, reported yesterday 3 miles from this point; no ambulances or wagons observed with them. Camps on the river line ~emain unchanged. The work, containing fonr heavy pieces, on heights behind Dr. Mortons house, is being strengthened this a. m. A party of artillery are engaged in constructing new works near bend of river, one-half mile above Mortons Ford. * HOLLAND, Lieutenant and Signal Officer. HDQRS. ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, SIGNAL DEPT., May 2, 1864. Lieutenant HOLLAND, Signal Officer, Stony Mountain: What number of infantry do you estimate in the column just re- ported moving to our left? By order: WM. S. STRYKER, Adjutant. STONY MOUNTAIN SIGNAL STATION, May 2, 1864. Lieutenant STRYKER, Actg. Asst. Adjt. Gen., Signal Dept., Army of the Potomac: The enemy on the move occupied about an hours time passing this point; well closed up; a division at least. HOLLAND, Lieutenant and Signal Officer. MAY 2, 18641 p. m. (Received 1.20 p. in.) General HANCOCK: Four wagons have just passed toward our left, opposite String- fellows Ford, and disappeared in woods. Dont know whether they were preceded by others or not. ISRAEL THJCKSTUN, Captain. HEADQUARTERS SECOND ARMY CORPS, May 2, 1864. Brigadier-General GIBBON, Commanding Second Division: GENERAL: The major-general commanding desires you to seQd to him at once a statement of the affair which occurred in the Eighth Ohio Volunteers yesterday, where certain men declined to do duty. I am, general, very respectfully, your obedient servant, C. H. MORGAN, Lieutenant- Colonel and Chief of Staff. - *Transmitted to General Meade 1 p. m. May 2 Page 336 336 OPERATIONS h~ SE. VA. AND N. C. [First indorsemeht.] HEADQUARTERS SECOND DIVISION, May 2, 1864. A disturbance took place yesterday morning in the Eighth Ohio Volunteers. Measures were at once taken by Colonel Carroll to suppress it, and 12 of the ring-leaders were placed in irons. Every man has now returned to duty; a more healthy state of feeling ex- ists, and no further trouble is anticipated. In case of such, how- ever, I have directed that any man refusing to do duty will be shot on the spot. Respectfully, JOHN GIBBON, Brigadier-General, Commanding Division. [5econd indorsement.] HEADQUARTERS SECOND ARMY CORPS, May 2, 1864. Respectfully forwarded for the information of the major-general commanding the Army of the Potomac. W. S. HANCOCK, Major- General, Commanding. [Third indorsement.] HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, May 2, 1864. Respectfully returned to the commanding officer of the Second Corps. Any man refusing to do duty will be shot on the spot, being in open mutiny. By command of Major-General Meade: S. WILLIAMS, Assista~tt Adjutant- General. A general order will be issued on this subject to-day. * S. WILLIAMS, Assistant Adjutant-General. GENERAL ORDERS, IIDQRS. FOURTH DIV., SECOND CORPS, No. 25. May 2, 1864. In compliance with orders from superior headquarters, I relinquish the command of this division. In doing so I take the occasion to express my gratification that I am to be succeeded by an old and tried soldier, Brig. Gen. Gershom Mott. My connection with this division for the past two years has been of the most pleasing char- acte~, the recollectlon of which time can never obliterate. I leave you with the very best wishes for your success and prosperity, be- lieving that under command of Generals Meade, Hancock, and Mott, you will retain the world-wide reputation you have so nobly won on many hard-fought battle-fields. JOS. B. CARR, Brigadier- General. *See General Orders, No. 23, Army of the Potomac, May 2, p. 331 Page 337 CHAP. XLV~.1 CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 337 SPECIAL ORDERS, WAR DEPT., ADJT. GENERALS OFFICE, No. 165. ~ * Washington, May 2, 1864. * * * * * 9. Company H, First Battalion, Twelfth U. S. Infantry, now at the regimental depot, Fort Hamilton, New York Harbor, will at once be put en route to join that regiment, now with the Fifth Corps, Army of the Potomac. Maj. D. Woodruff, Twelfth U. S. Infantry, superintendent regimental recruiting service, will assign to this company such officers as can be spared from the recruiting service. The quartermasters department will furnish the necessary trans- portation. * * * * * * * By order of the Secretary of War: E. D. TOWNSEND, Assistant Adjutant-General. GARNETTS MOUNTAIN, May 2, 1864. General WARREN: Enemy busy working on rifle-pits. No change in camps. All quiet. FULLER. HEADQUARTERS ARMIES OF THE UNITED STATES (Julpeper Court-House, Va., May 2, 1864. Maj. Gen. A. E. BURNSIDE, (Jommanding Ninth Army Carps: GENERAL: The movement of this army will commence at 12 oclock to-morrow night. The attempt will be made to turn the right flank of the enemythat is, to cross the Rapidan east of or below the railroad. Elys Ford, Germanna Ford, and Culpeper Mine Ford will be the crossing places. At Elys Ford and Germanna pontoon trains will be left for your use. You will send a suitable guard to take charge of these bridges and crossings by the morning of the 5th. So soon as the crossing of Meades army is perfectly assured I will notify you of the fact, by telegraph, which will be the signal for you to start. Make all your preparations on the 4th instant to move at a moments notice. Select your own route, or routes, to the Rapidan. When you reach there if Meades trains should be in your way do not interfere with them, following his army, unless you should re- ceive notice to push forward with your troops. In that case you will stop his trains until your troops are over and a sufficient number of ammunition wagons and ambulances to enable you to go into battle with a supply. In the absence of any further directions your line of march after crossing the Rapidan will be in rear of the right flank of the Army of the Potomac. Being in the rear you will re- quire very heavy guards with your train. My headquarters until further notice will as a rule be near the headquarters of the Army of the Potomac. On the night of the 4th this will be on the road to Germanna Ford and not far from the river. Furnish me a copy of your order of march as soon as you can. I am, general, very respectfully, your obedient servant, U. S. GRANT, 11 ~YOL ~XXYI? ~ I Page 338 338 OPERATIONS IN SE. VA. AND N. C. [Ca& p. XLVIII. WARRENTON JUNCTION, May 2, 1864. Maj. Gen. H. W. HALLECK, (Rece,ived 2.45 ~. in.) Chief of Staff: I understood from you that troops from the Pennsylvania Reserve Corps were to relieve the Second Pennsylvania Aikillery at Alex- andria. If this is correct when shall I expect them to join the corps? A. E. BURNSIDE, Major- General. WASHINGTON, May 2, 18643.30 p. in. Major-General BURNSIDE, Warrenton Junction, Va.: By General Grants orders the Second Pennsylvania Artillery replaced General Meades train guards, under General Briggs. We have nothing at present to relieve them, but hope to do so soon. Will let you know. Advise me of any change in your position. H. W. HALLECK Major-General and Chief of Staff. POINT LOOKOUT, May 2, 1864noon. Major-General BURNSIDE: Captain Hooker, Potomac Flotilla, sends word that the force crossed the Rappahannock is very heavy; com osed of many thous~ind men, principally cavalry. Probably inten Xed as a flank movement against General Grant. A. G. DRAPER, Colonel, Commanding District. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, May 2, 1864. Major-General BURNSIDE: The Point Lookout dispatch not reliable. Scouts in this morning who crossed below United States Ford had heard nothing and seen nothing to confirm it. I have told Sheridan to send a scouting party in that direction. GEO. G. MEADE, Major- General. WARRENTON JUNCTION, May 2, 1864. General MEADE: The following dispatch just received from General Benham: General BURNSIDE: WASHINGTON, May 2, 1864. The bridge is loaded on the cars to leave between 12 and 1 p.m. Captain Slosson, Fifteenth New York Volunteers, directed to report to you with a suggestion which, if ~pprovedby you, will expedite and save labor, and as it appears to beas well for bot Page 339 CNAP. XLVIII.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.IJNION. 339 corps it is for Captain Slosson to turn over this bridge to Captain McDonald for the Fifth Corps and retain your bridge now down under a selected guard of pontoniers detailed by Captain Slosson from his command. H. W. BENHAM, Brigadier-General. Would it not be well to leave the bridge that is now down until this one arrives? A. E. BURNSIDE, Major- General. WARRENTON JUNCTION, May 2, 18649.15 p. m. ADJUTANT-GENERAL NINTH ARMY CORPS: The pontoon bridge from the engineer depot, Washington; D. C., is here. The conductor of the train has orders to proceed without delay to Rap pahannoak. The boats will be unloaded and laid by morning. If the bridge is not to be laid in the same place tele- graph to Rappahannock. I remain, your obedient servant, H. V. SLOSSON, Captain, Fifteenth New York Veteran Engineers. MAY 2, 18643 p. m. Major-General BUENSIDE: The Fifth Corps bridge was taken up yesterday. When you have done with the bridge now being furnished, you will please return it to General Benham by the railroad. GEG. G. MEADE, Major-General. WEST CHESTER, May 2, 1864. Major-General BURNSIDE: Am much better; will leave on the 4th. Where shall I join you? JNO. G. PARKE. RENSSELAER, IND., May 2, 1864. Maj. Gen. A. E. BURNSIDE, Commanding Ninth Army Corps: GENERAL: You will do me a favor, and one that would be grate- fully remembered through life, if you would do me the honor to give me command of a division in your corps, either white or colored. I am no politician. I commenced in this war in April, 1861, as cap- tain, and won my way up to my p resent rank through meritorious service alone, without an y political influence, and it is very mortify- ing, after being on constant active duty over two years, to be exiled from duty without cause and not permitted to take part in the clos- ing acts of the great rebellion. I appeal to you, general, with a sol- diers fr~xikness, and hope that you will with a soldiers generosit Page 340 340 OPERATIONS IN SE. VA. AND N. C. [Ca~. XLVIII. pardon me, a stranger, in thus intruding upon you. I can assure you that if you will do me the honor and the favor to give me a command in your coyps you will never have reason to regret it. I have the honor to be, with great respect, your most obedient servant, R. H. MILROY, Major-General, U. S; Volunteers. WAIL DEPARTMENT, ADJUTANT-GENERALS OFFICE, Maj. Gen. A. E. BURNS IDE, May 2, 1864. Warrenton Junction, Va.: The Twenty-third Colored Regiment is presumed to be now en route to report to you, as ordered. The others will be sent forward as fast as they can be got ready. Two companies of the Thirty-first will reach Alexandria to-day, under orders to report to you. By order: C. W. FOSTER, Assistant Adjutant-General. MANASSAS, May 2, 1864. Major-General BURNSIDE: The Second Ohio Cavalry have arrived. Shall they continue their march? E. FERRERO, Brigadier-General. WARRENTON JUNCTIoN, May 2., 1864. Brig. Gen. E. FERRERO, Commanding Fourth Division, Ninth Corps: The general commanding directs that the cavalry form for its march and report here early in the morning. EDWARD M. NEILL, Assistant Adjutant-General. WARRENTON JUNCTION, May 2, 1864. Brigadier-General FERRERO: If the cavalry have not started let them camp where they are to- night, and come on early in the morning. LEWIS RICHMOND, Assistant Adjutant- General. MANASSAS, May 2, 1864. Major-General BURNSIDE: GENERAL: The cavalry started some time ago. E. FERRERO, Brigadier- General Page 341 C~. XINIIL] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 841 WARRENTON JUNCTION, May 2, 1864. Brigadier-General FERRERO: The general commanding directs that you send a scouting party in the direction of Falmouth. There are reports, but not reliable, of rebels having crossed below Fredericksburg. LEWIS RICHMOND, Assistant Adjutant- General. (Copy to Colonel Griffin.) BRIsToE, May 2, 1864. Lieut. Col. L. RICHMOND: The reports named in your telegram have been received here and scouts were sent out yesterday and to-day. Will send out scout to- night in compliance with orders. S. G. GRIFFIN, Golonel, Commanding. BRISTOE, May 2, 1864. Lieutenant-Colonel RICHMOND, Assistant Adjutant-General: Since receipt of your telegtam Colonel Morrison has reported re- sult of this afternoon scout. They went some 4 miles beyond Brents- yule without finding even a guerrilla. Do you desire a scout sent to a greater distance to-morrow? The vedettes have been thrown farther out and strengthened. S. G. GRIFFIN, Colonel, Commanding.. HEADQUARTERS THIRD DIvIsIoN, NINTH ARMY CORPS, Warrenton Junction, Va., May 2, 186411 a. m. Maj. Gen. A. E. BURNSIDE, Commanding Ninth Corps: GENERAL: Captain Cloke, Company B, Third New Jersey Cavalry, sent out yesterday a. m. with the Fifty-first Pennsylvania Veteran Volunteers to make a reconnaissance in the vicinity of Warrenton. has just returned. He reports that after repeated inquiries made of citizens (both male and female) and contrabands, he can learn of no Confederate force being or having been in that vicinity, but that small squads of guerrillas are in the habit of visiting Warrenton daily. He made a reconnaissance in front and left of the town, but could see nothing of the enemy. I am satisfied that the report made on the 30th ultimo, to the effect that a Confederate force had crossed the Warrenton road, is without foundation. The whole force of cav- alry and infantry have returned. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, 0. B. WILLOOX, Brigadier- General, Commanding Page 342 342 OPERATIONS IN SR. VA. ANtI N. C. [CEAP. XLVIII. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, May 2, 1864. General SHERIDAN, Commanding Cavalry Corps: Please be at these headquarters to-morrow morning at 10 oclock. A. A. HUMPHREYS, Major-General and Chief of Staff. CONFIDENTIAL.] CAVALRY CORPS, May 2, 1864. Generals TORBERT and WILSON, Comdg. Fir8t and Third Divisions, Cavalry Corps: The major-general desires to know whether your pickets have ob- served a rebel division of infantry moving down the river below Mortons Ford to-day. It is so reported by the signal officer at Stony Mountain. Answer. J. W. FORSYTH, Lieutenant-Colonel and Chief of Staff. FIRST CAVALRY DIVISION, May 2, 1864. Lieutenant-Colonel FORSYTH, Chief of Staff, Cavalry Corps: Nothing unusual has been reported from my picket-line to-day. Will inquire concerning the movement mentioned in your dispatch and report immediately if anything has been seen. A. T. A. TORBERT, Brigadier-General. HDQRS. CAVALRY CORPS, ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, May 2, 1864. Brig. Gen. D. McM. GREGG, Commanding Second Cavalry Division: GENERAL: The major-general commanding directs that you move your division as quietly as possible to-morrow mornin to ic ards- ville, or vicinity, and encamp it so as to be as little exposed to the view of the enemy as possible. Your division will be accompanied by one-half of the canvas pontoon train. The engineers connected with it will repair the road to Elys Ford, attracting the attention of the enemy as little as practicable. The general commanding further directs that you place guards on all the occupied houses on or in the vicinity of the roads passed over by your command, and in advance, toward the Rapidan. so as to prevent any communication with the enemy by the inhabitants. You will draw in all these guards when you move from Richardsville. Call in your detachThents at Morris- ville and Grove Church; if the river is past fording have the bridge put down to cross the above force very early in the niorning at Ke Page 343 CHAP. XLVIII.1 CORRi~SPONDENCE, ETC.1JNION. 343 lys Ford, the bridge to be taken up as soon as they have crossed, and to join you quickly at Richardsville. Orders for a further movement will be sent you to-morrow. If possible, take five days rations of grain for your cavalry horses with you to Richardsville. JAS. W. FORSYTH, Lieutenant-Colonel and Chief of Staff. HDQRS. CAVALRY CORPS, ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, May 2, 1864. Brig. Gen. D. MoM. GREGG, Commanding Second Cavalry Division: GENERAL: In case that the river is fordable the general thinks that you can bring in the detachments at Morrisville and Grove Church by Elys Ford. JAS. W. FORSYTH, Lieutenant-Colonel and Chief of Staff. HDQRS. PICKETS FIRST PENNSYLVANIA RESERVE CAY., May 2, 186410 a. m. Capt. F. L. TREMAIN, Asst. Adjt. Gen., First Brig., Secund Cay. Div. :~ CAPTAIN: I have the honor to report that the scout to Falmouth has just returned, having left here at 9 oclock last night, remained at Grove Church till 1 oclock a. in., reached Falmouth at 5 oclock. No enemy found on this side. Citizens report that all communica- tions from the opposite side are prohibited. They state that the enemy have been busily engaged in throwing up intrenchments during the past week. They also state that General Young is in command of the enemys cavalry, and that Longstreets forces ar- rived at Fredericksburg on Saturday, where they are encamped. The cavalry camps seen by the first scout are still visible, and the officer in command reports the river strongly picketed by dismounted men; cannot tell whether they are cavalry or infantry. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, J. P. TAYLOR, Colonel, Commanding Pickets. (Forwarded to headquarters Army of the Potomac.) HDQRS. FIRST PENNSYLVANIA RESERVE CAVALRY, May 2, 1864. Capt. F. L. TREMAIN, A~st. Adjt. Gen., First Brig., Second Cay. Div.: CAPTAIN: I have the honor to report that reliable information from a citizen has been received that about 5,000 rebel infantry arrived and went into camp near Chancellorsville on Friday last. Also that 100 dismounted men crossed the river on Saturday a Page 344 ~44 OPERATIONS IN sin. VA. MiD ~. ~. [ciiiip. XtviII. United States Ford. Scouts have been sent out on all the roads in that direction, and as yet no signs of any of them have been dis- covered on this side of the river. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, J. P. TAYLOR, Colonel, Commanding Pickets. (Forwarded to Major-General Meade.) HEADQUARTERS SECOND DIVISION CAVALRY, Col. J. I. GREGG, May 2, 186412 p. m. Comdg. Second Brigade, Second Division Cavalry: COLONEL: The general commanding directs that you have your command in readiness to move at 8 oclock to-morrow morning. Each trooper will carry four days rations in haversack and two days forage on horse in rear of saddle. I am, colonel, very respectfully, your obedient servant, H. C. WEIR, Assistant Adjutant-Geiwral. HDQRS. CAVALRY CORPS, ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, Brigadier-General WILSON, May 2, 1864. Commanding Third Cavalry Division: Your officers will have to ride Government horses if they are not alread~~rovided with private ones. They must be mounted in case move. No news of the Eighth Illinois Cavalry. Colonel McIntosh has been ordered down. JAS. W. FORSYTH, Lieutenant-Colonel and Chief of Staff. HEADQUARTERS THIRD DIVISION, CAVALRY CORPS, Lieutenant-Colonel FORSYTH, May 2, 1864. Chief of Staff, Cavalry Corps: I have sent one of my aides to reconnoiter between Mortons and Germanna Fords. He reports that at Mortons Ford no evidence can be found of the enemy toward our left, but there is a signal station of the enemys just opposite of that point. Our signal officer reports from Stony Mountain that the enemy have masked all his batteries with brush. Small parties of the enemy are still at work. J. H. WILSON. THIRD CAVALRY DIVISION, Lieutenant-Colonel FORSYTH, May 2; 1864. Cavalry Corps: The officer whom I sent to the picket-line has returned, having gone all the way to Germanna Ford. He reports no change o Page 345 CHAP. XLVIII.) COI~RESPOND~NCE, ErC.UNIO~~ 845 served at any point. The enemys pickets unchanged afl(l no indi- cations of a move on their part could be observed. Will send report from Southards as soon as it is received. J. H. WILSON. THIRD CAVALRY DIVISION, lVliay 2, 1864. Lieutenant-Colonel FORSYTH, Chief of Staff, Cavalry Corps: Have reports from Elys, Skinkers, and Fields Fords on the Rap- pahannock, and all fords on the Rapidan within my lines. All quiet, and no movement of the enemy. J. H. WILSON, Brigadier- General. HDQRS. CAVALRY CORPS, ARMY OF TH~ POTOMAC, .Miay 2, 1864. Brigadier-General WILSON, Third Cavalry Division: We cannot have a review to-morrow. I want to see you in the morning. Come up. P. H. SHERIDAN, Major- General. CULPEPER, May 2. 1864 p. in. (Received 4.20 p. in.) Maj. Gen. B. F. BUTLER, Fortress Monroe: What is the late news from General Gillmore? What number of his troops is yet to arrive? U. S. GRANT, Lieutenant- General. FORTRESS MONROE, May 2, 18647 p. in. (Received 11.45 a. in. 3d.) Lieut. Gen. U. S. GRANT: Telegram as to probable time of General Gillinore arrival already sent. Will be here to-morrow night or Wednesday morning with all his forces. Not more than two regiments and three batteries behind now. Three iron-dads here; one more expected to-morrow. Three more gun-boats to arrive. Washington, N. C., quietly evacuated, bringing away everything. Four regiments received from North Carolina. Shall be ready at time indicated. All quiet on the south bank of James River so far. BENJ. F. BUTLER, Major- General Page 346 346 OPERATIONS IN SE. VA. AND N. C. rOHAP. XLVIII. CULPEPER, VA., May 2, 186410.30 p. m. (Received 11.30 p. in.) Maj. Gen. B. F. BUTLER, Fortress Monroe: Start on the date given in my letter. * There will be no delay with this army. Answer, that I may know this is received and un- derstood as regards date. U. S. GRANT, Lieutenant- General. CULPEPER, May 2, 1864. Major-General BUTLER, Fortress Manroe, Va.: I have ordered Brigadier-General Carr to report to you. He is now commanding a division in this army, but the Senate refusing to confirm him with the date of his appointment will make him junior to the brigade commanders who have been serving under [him]. if it embarrasses you to give him a brigade you need not give it. His reputation as an officer is good. U. S. GRANT, Lieutenant- General. SPECIAL ORDERS, HDQRS. ARMIES OF THE UNITED STATES, No. In Field, near Culpeper Court-House, Va., May, 2, 1864. * * * * * * * Brig. Gen. J. B. Carr, U. S. Volunteers, is hereby relieved from duty in the Army of the Potomac, and will report in person without delay to Maj. Gen. B. F. Butler, commanding Department of Vir- ginia and North Carolina. By command of Lieutenant-General Grant: T. S. BOWERS, Assistant Adjutant- General. WASHINGTON, D. C., May 2, 186412.15 p. m. Major-General BUTLER, Fort Monroe, Va.: Not another cavalry horse can be sent to you at present. H. W. HALLECK, Major-General and Chief of Staff. FORT MONROE, May 2, 1864. (Received 4.15 p. in.) General GRANT: The following has just been received from Point Lookout in addi- tion to a dispatch that there was a movement on the Rappahannock sent yesterday: POINT LOOKOUT, May 2noon. Captain Hooker, Potomac Flotilla, sends word that the force which crossed the Rappahannock is very large, composed of many thousand men, principally cavalry. Probably intended as a flank movement against General Grant. A. G. DRAPER, Colonel, & c. BENJ. F. BUTLER, Major- General. *See Vol. XXXIII, p. 1009 Page 347 Ca& p. XLVIII] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC. UNION. 34/7 FORT MONROE, May 2, 186412.30 p. m. (Received 2.30 p. in.) Colonel SHARPE: What information, if any, have you of troops at Hanover Court- House? Deserters from Gilmors battalion of cavalry left there April 23, and report a large force of cavalry there and some two brigades from Army of Northwest Virginia, with more coming. JOHN I. DAVENPORT. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, .~-. ~. DAVENPORT, May 2, 18645 p. m. (Received 8.20 p. in.) Fort Monroe: At date you mention Bradley T. Johnsons commandcavalry, infantry, and artillery, 700 strongat Hanover Junction. Since then we had a rumor, not corroborated, that Longstreet sent some men from Charlottesville that way. They may have gone to Han- over Court-House, but I do not think so. It is strange that Gilmors men should go to you to desert. G. H. SHARPE, Colonel and Quartermaster. HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, May 2, 18645 p. in. (Received 7.10 p. in.) JOHN I. DAVENPORT, Fortress Monroe, Va.: I have a man, not late from Richmond, who can perhaps explain recent obstructions to the generals correspondence with Richmond, if they still exist. Does the general want the man, and will he be sent right back? Let me know what you consider the condition of things at Richmond, and what you know about any troops passing through Richmond this way for the past ten days. G. H. SHARPE, Colonel, & c. HDQRS. DEPT. OF VIRGINIA AND NORTH CAROLINA, Fort Monroe, May 2, 1864. Capt. HENRI MARIvAULT, Comdg. His Imperial Majestys Ship Tisiphone: CAPTAIN: I see by the Richmond papers that some officer or offi- cers of the French ships, while at City Point, left their vessels and went to an remained there some days, and that the delay occasioned in coming down was waiting for the return of that officer or those officers. May I inquire without offense whether that news- paper statement is true, and, if true, un(ler what article of the con- vention in regard to the shipment of the tobacco, or under what au- thority these officers visited Richmond? I have the honor to be, very respectfully, your obedient servant, BENJ. F. BUTLER, Major- General, Gommanding Page 348 348 OPERATIONS IN SE. VA. AND N. C. [CHAP. XLVIII. GENERAL ORDERS, ~ HDQRS. DEPT. OF VA. AND N. C., No. 55. Fort Monroe, Va., ]Jfay 2, 1864. I. Maj. Gen. William F. Smith is hereby assigned to the com- mand of the Eighteenth Army Corps, and will report directly to these headquarters. II. Brig. Gen. A. H. Terry is hereby assigned to the command of the Tenth Army Corps, awaiting the arrival of Maj. Gen. Q. A. Gill- more, and will report directly to these headquarters. By command of Major-General Butler: R. S. DAVIS, Major and Assistant Adjutant-General. FORT MONROE, May 2, 1864. Maj. Gen. WILLIAM F. SMITH, Commanding, & c.: General Weitzel will report to yon on Wednesday morning. Have intelligence from Gillmore. He will be here to-morrow. BENJ. F. BUTLER, Major-General, Commanding. Colonel SHAFFER, YORKTOWN, VA., May 2, 1864. Chief of Staff, Fort Monroe: Aggregate for dnty, not inclnding artillery, at Fort Magruder and this post: Rinks, 5,715; Brooks, 5,866; XVistar, 5,052; Terry, 15,706; say monnted rifles, 400; say two regiments which reported last night, 840. Total, 33,579. WM. F. SMITH, Major- General. FORT MONROE, May 2, 1864. General SMITH: The artillery and cavalry will be embarked at Newport News. They must be there ready to embark at daylight Wednesday morn- ing. J. W. SHAFFER, Colonel and Chief of Staff. HEADQUARTERS U. S. TROOPS, Yorktown, Va., May 2, 1864. General WISTAR, Williamsburg: The light batteries and all the cavalry of this command must be ready to embark at Newport News on Wednesday at daybreak. Please send word to Colonel West immediately. By command of Major-General Smith: N. BOWEN, Assistant Adjutant-General. Operator will send copy of this to Colonel West. N. BOWEN, Assistant Adjutant-General Page 349 CHAP. XLVIII.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 349 HEADQUARTERS U. S. FORCES, Brigadier-General BROOKS, May 2, 1864. Commanding First Division, Eighteenth Army Corps: GENERAL: The general commanding directs that all the artillery of your command be at Newport News ready to embark at daylight on Wednesday. Respectfully, & c., N. BOWEN, Assistant Adjutant-General. HDQRS. FIRST BRIG., SECOND DIV., 10TH ARMY CORPS, West Point, Va., May 2, 1864. LieutenantColonel FLOYD, Commanding Third New York Volunteers: COLONEL: The colonel commanding directs that you will march your command to the front 8 or 10 miles upon the main road, col- lecting all the information of the enemy possible. You will go in light marching order with one days rations in haversacks, and use the utmost caution, scouring the country thoroughly. In case of an attack you will send immediately to these headquarters, reporting as near as possible the force in your front, and fall back slowly until you join the main body of troops. You will return to camp to-night, and upon your arrival report in person to the colonel commanding. Very respectfully, yours, F. W. WEAVER, Lieutenant and Acting Assistant Adjutant-General. GETTYS LINE, May 2, 1864. Colonel SHAFFER: Captain Hart had a picket force in his front last evening at Ber- Iiar(ls Mill. He now reports the enemy has retired, and he learns from various sources that it consisted of a regiment of infantry, Fifty-first North Carolina. one regiment of cavalry 600 stroug, and a six-gun battery of artillery, commanded by General Cliugman. They came from Picketts division, on the Blackwater, for the pur- pose of learning the truth of a report that we had evacuated Nor- folk and Portsmouth. Mrs. Lenahan and four children from Chowan County, N. C., are at the outpost and want to go to Indiana to her friends; is a widow in destitute circumstances, and will take the oath. Shall I admit her? AUGUST V. KAUTZ, Brigadier-General of Volunteers. HEADQUARTERS DISTRICT OF NORTH CAROLINA, New Berne, N. C., May 2, 1864. Maj. R. S. DAvIS, A. A. G., Hdqrs. Dept. of Va. and N. C., Fortress Monroe: MAJOR: With regard to keeping open our communication by way of the canal I think there is no good reason why we should give it up yet. Even if the ram is in the sounds our boats ought to be able to ~uu away from it, The fact of her having sunk the ~mt1 Page 350 850 OPERATIONS IN SE. VA.